Marine fireteam training creates building blocks for better battalion

5/19/2012 Cpl. Andrew D. Johnston, 2nd Marine Division

“Who goes there?” shouted a Marine, there was no response. Sounds of cracking branches with the rhythm of footsteps echoed in the distance as he clutched his rifle tighter. Silhouettes emerged from the tree line creeping toward his position.

Florida Marine excels among peers

4/10/2012 Cpl. Clayton VonDerAhe, 2nd Marine Division

Sergeant John Margaritondo is 29 years old and has been in the Marine Corps since 2008. His six-foot-plus stature coupled with a stern, yet disarming, demeanor lends immediate credibility to his firm, but fair fo...

Man’s Best Friend serves in Afghanistan

5/12/2011 Lance Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe, Regimental Combat Team 8

Dogs have proved themselves to be a crucial asset in protecting the Marines fighting against terrorism.  Canine units are being used to locate improvised explosive devices before they can detonate and harm or kill the Marines t...

Following in the footsteps of the fallen

5/12/2011 Lance Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe, Regimental Combat Team 8

A memorial service was held recently to honor the service of Staff Sgt. Jason Rogers.

Rogers was the platoon sergeant of 3rd Platoon, Company C, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, operating under the command of...

Marines, Afghan police build base to secure roads

5/1/2011 Lance Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe, Regimental Combat Team 8

The desolate and lawless conditions of Jahazi have made it a hot spot for insurgents to stop traffic and ‘tax’ travelers as they pass through the area.  In effect, the cost of living in neighboring areas has been dr...