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Oldest Recruit In the History of Parris Island

The average age of a United States Marine Corps recruit is 21 years old. When Paul Douglas enlisted in 1942, he left behind his wife, child, and career and reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island at the ripe age of 50. Even though thousands of visitors have walked the halls of the Douglas Visitor Center, very few know the story of the man behind the namesake, who became the oldest recruit in the history of Parris Island...

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The Third Option

When young men and women sign a four to five-year active duty Marine Corps contract, they take an oath that ensures they understand the magnitude of their commitment. However, they may not realize that they’ll have to make another difficult decision when they near the end of their obligated service. Many see it as a binary choice. On one hand, they can re-enlist and continue to enjoy esprit de corps, military benefits and the security of a government job...

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A U.S. Marine poses for a photo in the 22 Area of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 25. - A U.S. Marine poses for a photo in the 22 Area of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, March 25.

The first step: why three Marines volunteered to get vaccinated

When Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton rolled out the first round of COVID-19 vaccines just months ago, many uniformed and civilian personnel heavily weighed the pros and cons of receiving their first dose. As the vaccine is made available to more and more units aboard Camp Pendleton, Marines are doing their research and volunteering to take the first step toward immunization. Marines with Communication Strategy and Operations, Marine Corps Installations West, had the opportunity to receive their first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine in late March. They are scheduled to receive their second dose mid-April...

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Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.” - Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco holds photos of two of her female Marine mentors, retired Sgt. Maj. Tammy Fodey and retired Sgt. Maj. Sarah Thornton, the first woman Marine to retire after 30 consecutive years of active service. Falco served as an enlisted Marine for 14 years before her acceptance to the Meritorious Commissioning Program. She commissioned in August 2001 and will soon retire after 34 fruitful years in the Marine Corps. “I’ve just been privileged to be allowed to be a Marine,” Falco said. “I still love it as much as the day I came in, and I would stay in forever, but I want to make room for others to climb the ladder and at the same time, contribute to society in another capacity.”

Woman Marine of 34 years leaves lasting legacy

In 1987, Lt. Col. Sally Ann Falco was just 17 years old. The Cold War was still hot. President Ronald Reagan had recently delivered his famous speech urging Soviet Leader Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall, but the wall would remain standing for two more years.Falco was still in high school in 1987, and she chose to take the Armed

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U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Salvatore Naimo, a Korean War Veteran, answers questions from local news agencies after being awarded the Silver Star in Sarasota, Florida on March 17, 2021. - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Salvatore Naimo, a Korean War Veteran, answers questions from local news agencies after being awarded the Silver Star in Sarasota, Florida on March 17, 2021.

Korean War Veteran awarded the Silver Star

Salvatore Naimo, local Sarasota veteran, received the Silver Star Wednesday morning for his actions in September, 1951 in the mountains of Korea as a rifleman in Howe Company 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment.Nearly 70 years ago, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines regained the area north of the 38th parallel called the “Punchbowl” in a battle against the

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Kata Tanaka, the lead guitarist with Mattalica, a Metallica tribute band, performs during the 2021 Hansen Festival on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, March 13, 2021. - Kata Tanaka, the lead guitarist with Mattalica, a Metallica tribute band, performs during the 2021 Hansen Festival on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, March 13, 2021.

Let there be rock: 2021 Hansen Festival

U.S. service members and their families gather during the 2021 Hansen Festival, to enjoy an assortment of performances and fun-filled activities on Camp Hansen, March 13.While following the current COVID-19 mitigation efforts, thousands of attendees enjoyed food provided by local vendors, carnival-style rides, festivities and performances from

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On March 7, Marines from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo and 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade attended the Oshima Island 10-year anniversary of the 3-11 Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster and subsequent US response Operation Tomodachi. The people of the island unveiled a memorial inscribed with “Friendship Forever,” honoring the strong relationship between themselves and Okinawa Marines. Attendees included city officials and citizens who survived the disaster and worked with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit which conducted extensive humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the area. The work underscored the importance of interoperability with our Japan Self-Defense Force partners in support of the Japan/US alliance. 3D MEB also responded to the disaster, working in Sendai area, and remains resilient, ready and relevant to work with our Japanese friends to respond to crisis in the future. - On March 7, Marines from the U.S. Embassy Tokyo and 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade attended the Oshima Island 10-year anniversary of the 3-11 Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster and subsequent US response Operation Tomodachi. The people of the island unveiled a memorial inscribed with “Friendship Forever,” honoring the strong relationship between themselves and Okinawa Marines. Attendees included city officials and citizens who survived the disaster and worked with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit which conducted extensive humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the area. The work underscored the importance of interoperability with our Japan Self-Defense Force partners in support of the Japan/US alliance. 3D MEB also responded to the disaster, working in Sendai area, and remains resilient, ready and relevant to work with our Japanese friends to respond to crisis in the future.

Marines return to Oshima 10 years later

A decade ago this week, elements of III Marine Expeditionary Force raced north into freezing temperatures of Northeast Japan to answer an allied call for help after the devastating March 11, 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. The 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade flew to Sendai to set up a Forward Command Element with the

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A U.S. Marine gets her arm disinfected to receive her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, on Camp Foster, Mar. 2. - A U.S. Marine gets her arm disinfected to receive her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, on Camp Foster, Mar. 2.

I got the COVID-19 vaccine because...

As thousands of service members on Okinawa are receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, they are given a sticker stating ‘I got my COVID-19 vaccine because…’ This personal memento signifies their unique reason to receive the vaccine. Many service members with families on Okinawa are receiving the vaccine to keep their families safe. “I feel it is my duty to get the vaccine to stop the spread of COVID-19,” explains Staff Sgt. Felicia White, a mother of one who just received the final COVID-19 booster...

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Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24. - Heavy Mobile Equipment mechanics work together with mechanics from the original equipment manufacturer, Flyer Defense, to learn every aspect of maintenance and repair of the Special Operations’ Ground Mobility Vehicle at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, aboard the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., Feb. 24.

Special Operations Command GMVs coming to Production Plant Barstow

Special Operations Command Ground Mobility Vehicles are coming soon to Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command on the Yermo Annex aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California. The GMV 1.1 are all-terrain vehicles developed for use by Special Forces. These vehicles are designed to be lightweight and transportable via the CH-47 Chinook. “The vehicles consist of a crew rollover protection, utilizing crush-resistant roll bars and able to withstand 100 percent of the gross vehicle weight,” said Paul Niemeyer...

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Maj. Indigo Gregory, company commander with Headquarters Battalion, Training and Education Command, employs Command Individual Risk and Resiliency Assessment System, Jan. 5. - Maj. Indigo Gregory, company commander with Headquarters Battalion, Training and Education Command, employs Command Individual Risk and Resiliency Assessment System, Jan. 5.

Marine Corps develops secure app to monitor holistic health and combat readiness of Marines

A Marine’s greatest threat isn’t always a physical adversary. Marines risk their lives to protect their country. However, some warfighters deal with a range of social, financial or mental health concerns upon returning home. This can lead to the Marine experiencing personal issues that compromise their overall health and combat readiness. In 2020, Marine Corps Systems Command deployed an application designed to help commanders and their leadership team monitor behavioral changes among Marines...

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A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15. - A U.S. Navy corpsman administers a U.S. Marine with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine on Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 15.

Deploying Marines and Sailors receive COVID-19 vaccine

Deploying Marines and Sailors with II Marine Expeditionary Force received the coronavirus vaccination in preparation for an upcoming overseas deployment at the Russell Marine and Family Services Center in Camp Lejeune, January 15. In compliance with the Department of Defense’s coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination plan in support of Operation Warp Speed, U.S. Navy corpsmen, nurses, and doctors with 2nd Medical Battalion worked alongside the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit to form the II MEF COVID-19 vaccination team...

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A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy. - A graphic in support of content about the Secretary of the Navy.

Statement by Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Harker

To all of our Sailors, Marines, civilians and military families, I am honored to return to the Department of the Navy team as your acting secretary. From my years on active duty in the Coast Guard and as a career civilian at several federal agencies, I am keenly aware of the sacrifices all of you make, and the dedication you show, every day in service to our Nation. As we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 crisis, I am confident we will work together to help bring our Nation through this historic period...

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Here to ASIST

U.S. Marines and Sailors sit, breathing warm air into their face masks, socially distanced, eyes forward, looking at the man in front of them and absorbing his every word. These service members are eager to learn and eventually share their knowledge on preventing suicide. These U.S. Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit attend a two-day class to become Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training First-Aid caregivers. “ASIST is designed to equip Marines and Sailors to take care of each other peer to peer,” says Lt. Cmdr. Jeremy Blythe, the 31st MEU Command Element Chaplain...

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U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild) - U.S. Marine Corps and Navy medical personnel and first responders complete an initial screening to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29, 2020. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD fromCOVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission readiness and enhance capabilities of DOD members worldwide. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild)

U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy First Responders and Medical Personnel Receive Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine

U.S. Marine Corps and Navy personnel received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 29.The Department of Defense’s COVID-19 vaccination plan is phase driven and designed to protect members within the DOD from COVID-19 as quickly and safely as possible in order to bolster mission

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U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17. - U.S. Marines work together to pour cement into the foundation of the Republica de Cuba School in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, Aug. 17.

Still holding strong: Task force Marines built lasting structures, relationships in Honduras

Almost two weeks after Hurricane Eta, a category 4 storm, ripped through Central America with torrential rain and heavy winds, Hurricane Iota, another category 4 storm, hit the already strained region. Hurricanes Eta and Iota hit Honduras hard with winds surpassing 100 mph and caused more than 6 feet of flooding. The storms affected more than a third of the population causing destruction of homes, extreme flooding and deadly mud slides. As the winds and rain demolished buildings across the country, four buildings in Puerto Lempira, Honduras, stood strong – so strong that locals abandoned their homes and took shelter in them...

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A U.S. Marine providing security on a company attack range in Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 21. - A U.S. Marine providing security on a company attack range in Twentynine Palms, Calif., Oct. 21.

Marine Corps begins widespread fielding of suppressors

Marines risk their lives to protect others. Many are trained to locate, close with and destroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, or repel the enemy's assault by fire and close combat. They engage adversaries in any clime and place, no matter how arduous the conditions. Marine Corps Systems Command is tasked not only with enhancing the lethality of warfighters. The command also strives to protect them. MCSC has taken another step toward increasing lethality and protection for Marines. In December, the command began the process of fielding thousands of suppressors to infantry, reconnaissance and special operation units for employment on the M27, M4 and M4A1 rifles...

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III Marine Expeditionary Force Band performs during the “Holiday Extravaganza” parade on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 12. - III Marine Expeditionary Force Band performs during the “Holiday Extravaganza” parade on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 12.

MCCS hosts a weekend of holiday festivities

U.S. Marines, sailors and families participated in a “Holiday Extravaganza” on Camp Foster, December 12-13. The event was open to service members and their families to enjoy a traditional holiday activity less than two weeks before Christmas Day. Marine Corps Community Services along with Headquarters and Support Battalion leadership, Col. Jeffrey L. Hammond and Sgt. Maj. Brian R. Drechsler, hosted the Holiday Extravaganza as an opportunity for service members to enjoy the holidays away from home. “I think the easiest thing to do is nothing – but I don’t think that is what the families deserve.” said Hammond...

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A U.S. Marine waves to families while dressed as Santa Claus on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 5. - A U.S. Marine waves to families while dressed as Santa Claus on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 5.

Happy Holidays: Santa, Marines fly over Pendleton, North County neighborhoods

With COVID-19 looming over the holiday season, many families have been forced to alter plans and, in some cases, stop their yearly traditions. One of the most popular traditions taking an operational pause this year is children getting the chance to visit with Santa and tell him all their hopes and dreams when it comes to what will be under the Christmas tree. It’s hard to maintain social distance while sitting on Santa’s knee...

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Seaman Jose Acosta prepares an influenza vaccine at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 25. - Seaman Jose Acosta prepares an influenza vaccine at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 25.

United States Naval Hospital Okinawa distributes flu vaccines to thousands of service members and families

The United States Naval Hospital Okinawa has administered over 4,800 influenza vaccines to Marines, sailors and families within the last several weeks. In order to protect patients and staff from the COVID-19 virus, the USNHO is administering the influenza vaccine at a tent set up near the rear entrance of the hospital, which ensures appropriate social distancing and adequate airflow among individuals. Cmdr. Lucas A. Johnson, a preventive medicine physician at the USNHO and a native of San Diego, California, explains how the USNHO is prepared to distribute thousands of vaccines at once...

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U.S. Marines repair threshold lights on the airfield during on-the-job training with Seabees, on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 3. - U.S. Marines repair threshold lights on the airfield during on-the-job training with Seabees, on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 3.

Seabees and Marines power III MEF and MCIPAC

Day in and day out U.S. Navy Seabees work to fulfill their motto “We build, we fight, we do”, training General Facility Marines in a joint-effort to help protect and maintain III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installation Pacific facilities. When a service ticket is issued on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, GF Marines shadow Seabees to learn their side of the job. Seabees are trained to build and maintain permanent structures while Marines are trained in expedient construction and maintenance. The training is hands-on, teaching Marines how to build, plumb and power structures for long term use...

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The bust of the World War I memorial scheduled to be built in Pershing Park, Washington D.C., November 8, 2018. The bust is highlighting the projected projects built in coordination with the World War One Centennial Commission. - The bust of the World War I memorial scheduled to be built in Pershing Park, Washington D.C., November 8, 2018. The bust is highlighting the projected projects built in coordination with the World War One Centennial Commission.

Red poppies commemorate the bloody Great War

The iconic red poppies are back and being offered as a symbol of remembrance and commemoration of World War I, and all fallen military service members. A century ago, “the war to end all wars” raged throughout Europe. It was a war that racked up nearly 38 million casualties, including upwards of 8.5 million deaths. From 1914 to 1918, World War I took a greater human toll than any previous conflict. The Great War, as it was then known, also ravaged the landscape of Western Europe, where most of the fiercest fighting took place...

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Five sisters - Amber and Ashley Valentine and Maria, Melissa and Vanessa Placido Jaramillo - graduated from MCRD Parris Island, Nov. 13. - Five sisters - Amber and Ashley Valentine and Maria, Melissa and Vanessa Placido Jaramillo - graduated from MCRD Parris Island, Nov. 13.

Sisters by blood, now sisters-in-arms: Two sets of sisters graduate recruit training

Three days before her grandfather passed away, Ashley Valentine, 19, made a promise to carry on his legacy in the United States armed services. After deciding to join the Marine Corps, her sister Amber, 22, made the decision to enlist as well. “After talking with the recruiter about how it would impact my life, I was committed,” Amber said. “I was ready to go no matter what.” Amber waited for her sister to be approved medically before she went to recruit training...

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Col. Vincent Dawson salutes the unit colors during the SPMAGTF-SC closing ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 13. - Col. Vincent Dawson salutes the unit colors during the SPMAGTF-SC closing ceremony at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 13.

Task force Marines hold closing ceremony for crisis response deployment

U.S. Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Southern Command officially conclude their crisis response deployment during a closing ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 13. Due to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the SPMAGTF-SC’s mission to rapidly respond to assist Latin American and Caribbean partner nations with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support was based from Camp Lejeune instead of being based from Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, like previous years...

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Retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley, the 298th Marine Medal of Honor recipient, gives closing remarks at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Oct. 18. - Retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley, the 298th Marine Medal of Honor recipient, gives closing remarks at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Oct. 18.

SECNAV Names Future Expeditionary Sea Base USS John L. Canley

Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite announced Nov. 10 that a future U.S. Navy Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB) class ship will honor Medal of Honor Recipient Marine Corps Sergeant Major (Retired) John L. Canley.Canley was awarded the nation’s highest honor 50 years after his actions serving as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division in the Republic of Vietnam from January 31 to February 6, 1968 during the Battle of Hue City. “To honor the remarkable Vietnam generation on this 245th birthday of the United States Marine Corps, ESB-6 will be named USS John L. Canley to honor a man who has exemplified all that has made our service strong, and our Nation thrive,” said Braithwaite...

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Maj. Gen. James F. Glynn passes a piece of the cake to the guest of honor, Lt. Gen. George W. Smith during the 245th Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 6. - Maj. Gen. James F. Glynn passes a piece of the cake to the guest of honor, Lt. Gen. George W. Smith during the 245th Marine Corps Birthday cake cutting ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 6.

Marine Raiders Celebrate Corps’ 245th Birthday

Marine Forces Special Operations Command celebrated the 245th Marine Corps Birthday a little differently than in years past by running a collective 245 miles and coming together for a traditional cake-cutting ceremony, November 6, 2020 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. COVID-19 restrictions have changed the way Marines across the globe are celebrating the Corps’ 245th birthday. The annual galas, held to commemorate the founding of Marine Corps, have been scaled back to ensure the health of the force while ensuring the most meaningful aspects of the festivities remain untouched. The decision to forego Marine Corps Ball ceremonies was announced in a memo from the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black...

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May Goldman, middle, a volunteer with the San Diego Blood Bank, explains the blood donation paperwork to U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christian Ellinger, Inspector General with Western Recruiting Region and Col. Rob Hancock, Assistant Chief of Staff, WRR, during a blood drive in memory of Lyanna Fernandez at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 7. - May Goldman, middle, a volunteer with the San Diego Blood Bank, explains the blood donation paperwork to U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christian Ellinger, Inspector General with Western Recruiting Region and Col. Rob Hancock, Assistant Chief of Staff, WRR, during a blood drive in memory of Lyanna Fernandez at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Oct. 7.

Marines donate blood in memory of Lyanna Fernandez

Marines are more than warfighters on the battlefield, protecting and defending our nation and its freedom. The Marine Corps motto, “Semper Fidelis,” meaning, “always faithful,” represents the loyalty of every Marine to another and the faithfulness to stand together through every battle faced. Not every battle fought is on the frontline, some battles are fought within. No Marine gets left behind, so when one is down, his or her Marine brotherhood and sisterhood come together to help in the fight. Lyanna Fernandez, the daughter of Staff Sgt. Juan Fernandez, a recruiter with Recruiting Sub-Station Corona, Recruiting Station Riverside, passed away two months before her second birthday after fighting Leukemia...

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Future Marine Tommy Lam catches his breath during physical training at Laguna Beach in Orange County, Calif, Oct. 10. - Future Marine Tommy Lam catches his breath during physical training at Laguna Beach in Orange County, Calif, Oct. 10.

Choose Your Own Path

Everyone wants to be able to choose their own destiny in life. They want to make the decisions and have control over what will take place in their lives. Tommy Lam, an Irvine, California native, wanted to choose his own path in life, but came into conflict with his family's expectations as he got older. Lam comes from a traditional Vietnamese family that has strong beliefs in having the customary career path of going straight into college, and maintaining a nine-to-five job. Growing up Tommy has always had an unease of continuously trying to live up to the expectations that he didn’t want for himself...

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A U.S. Marine delivers donation boxes to the Guam Chamber of Commerce to commence the 2020 Toys for Tots Campaign on Oct. 14. - A U.S. Marine delivers donation boxes to the Guam Chamber of Commerce to commence the 2020 Toys for Tots Campaign on Oct. 14.

Toys for Tots Commences in Guam and CNMI

Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz officially began the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign in Guam and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. Now starting the campaign’s eleventh year on Guam and sixth year in the CNMI, this week Marines from MCB Camp Blaz delivered toy collection boxes to participating organizations and businesses. Last year over 8,100 toys were collected on Guam and more than 2,100 in the CNMI, all going to over 5,300 children in Guam, Saipan, Rota and Tinian...

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The cycle of thoughts encouraging negative behavior can be broken with proper training. - The cycle of thoughts encouraging negative behavior can be broken with proper training.

Overview of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the combination of two theories and therapies to overcome a wide range of mental health conditions, most notably anxiety and depression. CBT has been studied and researched for years and is considered an Evidenced Based Practice which is a testament to its effectiveness when done correctly. The “cognitive” part of CBT is based on the assumption that thoughts create attitudes and then attitudes drive behavior...

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U.S. Marine Corps Col. Kirk Mullins served as the presenting officer at the funeral of private first class Louis Wiesehan, Jr., on Sept. 19. - U.S. Marine Corps Col. Kirk Mullins served as the presenting officer at the funeral of private first class Louis Wiesehan, Jr., on Sept. 19.

An overdue homecoming: 77 years later, Marine finds his way home

After 77 years, Pfc. Louis Wiesehan, Jr., has finally returned home. Wiesehan, 20, was a member of Company F, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. He was among the cadre of Marines charged with securing the small, but heavily fortified, island of Betio in the Tarawa atoll on November 20, 1943. The Battle of Tarawa was part of Operation Galvanic, the U.S. invasion of the Gilbert Islands in the Pacific Theater of World War II...

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Acting Under Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Gregory J. Slavonic, served as the keynote speaker at a memorial dedication ceremony Sept. 27, 2020. - 200927-N-DB907-1079 Providence, R.I. (Sep. 27, 2020) Acting Under Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Gregory J. Slavonic, served as the keynote speaker at a memorial dedication ceremony Sept. 27, 2020. The ceremony honored the nine Rhode Island Marines that were killed in the Beirut bombing October 1983. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Ashley E. Nekoui/Released)

Acting Under SECNAV honors ‘Rhode Island Nine’ Marines

Acting Under Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Gregory J. Slavonic served as the keynote speaker at the Rhode Island Nine Beirut Memorial dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony September 27 in Providence, Rhode Island. The memorial honors the nine Rhode Island Marines who lost their lives during the Marine Barracks bombing in Beirut, Lebanon October 23, 1983. “Most of you know the names of the nine Marines who perished during the horrific terrorist attack that destroyed the Marine barracks in Beirut,” said Slavonic. “But beyond every name there is a story – a decision to serve, a commitment to peace and freedom, and a family waiting so anxiously at home...”

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Base residents meet a firefighter at Mokapu Mall, Oct. 14. - Base residents meet a firefighter at Mokapu Mall, Oct. 14.

Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen

The Fire Prevention team is cooking up some excitement for Fire Prevention Week 2020, themed “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!" aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, October 4 – 10. The goal of Fire Prevention Week is to involve people, children and adults alike, to learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. “Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires,” said Michelle Bledsoe, fire prevention officer on base. This year the focus is on preventable fires and injuries that happen while cooking in one’s kitchen or while barbequing in their yard...

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The Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office congratulates the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps 2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year: Mrs. Raquel Hernandez with the Fleet and Family Support Center Naval Air Station Lemoore as well as Ms. Shirley D. Stephens, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. - The Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office congratulates the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps 2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year: Mrs. Raquel Hernandez with the Fleet and Family Support Center Naval Air Station Lemoore as well as Ms. Shirley D. Stephens, Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

2020 Exceptional Sexual Assault Response Coordinators of the Year

Sexual Assault Response Coordinators oversee the immediate safety needs of those who report sexual assault, connecting them to resources and assigning a Victim Advocate to provide advocacy and assistance throughout the medical, investigative, and legal processes. They train thousands of Service Members each year to respond more effectively to victims and on prevention initiatives...

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SECNAV Graphic - SECNAV Graphic

SECNAV Braithwaite’s 100-Day Message

Shipmates, in my first 100 days as your Secretary, I have had several opportunities to engage with many of you across the fleet. As some of you may have heard during my confirmation hearing, re-establishing a strong culture starting with leadership, trust up and down the chain of command, upholding good order and discipline, and empowering people to embrace their responsibilities have all been top priorities for me. My conversations with many of you have filled me with great pride and confidence in where our force is headed. These interactions reinforced what I already knew when I took this job...

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Retired Maj. James Capers Jr. smiles after a plaque was unveiled in his honor in his hometown of Bishopville, S.C., at the town’s Memorial Park, Aug. 29. - Retired Maj. James Capers Jr. smiles after a plaque was unveiled in his honor in his hometown of Bishopville, S.C., at the town’s Memorial Park, Aug. 29.

The Place, The Legend, The Man

The residents of Bishopville, a small South Carolina town, filled the streets, Aug. 29, for a special celebration honoring their hometown hero. The motto “Heritage, History, Home,” proudly painted on the Main Street mural perfectly embodied the town’s spirit as everyone gathered for the return of retired Major James “Jim” Capers Jr. Maj. Capers, described by his comrades as the “utmost Marine”, is the recipient of a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars with “V” for valor, and three Purple Hearts...

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A U.S. Marine monitors network activity from the operations floor at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Aug. 31. - A U.S. Marine monitors network activity from the operations floor at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., Aug. 31.

Marine Corps Activates Network Activity - NCR to Provide Unity of Command and Effort to the Enterprise Network

The Marine Corps is modernizing how it commands and controls its enterprise network. Now a dedicated group will upgrade the Corps’ ability to prevent and counter adversarial cyber-attacks and minimize network disruptions and outages. Today in Quantico, Virginia, the Marine Corps stood up Network Activity - National Capital Region, the second network focused unit following the model pioneered by the 1st Network Battalion out of Camp Pendleton, California. The network activity will command and control the Marine Corps Enterprise Network within the NCR...

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U.S. Marines poseat the 10th annual Wounded Warrior Leadership Awards ceremony hosted by the Marine Corps Association and Foundation, at the Marston Pavilion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 20. - U.S. Marines poseat the 10th annual Wounded Warrior Leadership Awards ceremony hosted by the Marine Corps Association and Foundation, at the Marston Pavilion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 20.

Marine Corps Association and Foundations recognizes six exceptional leaders during 10th annual Wounded Warrior Leadership awards

The Marine Corps Association and Foundation recognized six exceptional leaders within Wounded Warrior Regiment during the 10th annual Wounded Warrior Leadership Awards ceremony at the Marston Pavilion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Aug. 20, 2020. Individuals were chosen within WWR for their professionalism, exceptional leadership and achievements during the previous fiscal year. WWR supports the recovery and non-medical care of wounded, ill and injured Marines, Sailors attached to Marine units and their family members...

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Midshipmen pose for a photo with David Luber, Executive Director, United States Cyber Command, at DreamPort in Columbia, Md., August 14. - Midshipmen pose for a photo with David Luber, Executive Director, United States Cyber Command, at DreamPort in Columbia, Md., August 14.

Future Cyberspace Operators: 20 Interns Take Up Cyberwarfare Summer Internship

The Marines are looking for the best and brightest minds to lead cyberspace operators in defense of the Nation. Nineteen U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen and one Marine sergeant with the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program from The Citadel joined Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command for a summer internship at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. The interns, hosted in two waves to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, were divided into small teams and embedded with seven of MARFORCYBER’s cyber mission force teams from 22 June to 14 August...

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In an undated photo, the sign for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, posted along Interstate Highway 5 reads, 'Preserving California's Precious Resources.' Camp Pendleton is the premier Fleet Marine Force training base on the West Coast. - In an undated photo, the sign for Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, posted along Interstate Highway 5 reads, 'Preserving California's Precious Resources.' Camp Pendleton is the premier Fleet Marine Force training base on the West Coast.

Good neighbors: MCI-West installations do their part during California's flex alert

Due to the recent heat wave over the weekend, the California Independent System Operator issued a state-wide flex alert for energy consumption to prevent rolling blackouts across the state. A flex alert is a notification requesting consumers decrease electricity usage for a set period of time. In California’s case, the flex alert went out in expectation of a high demand for electricity usage due to the heat wave. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and the other installations that comprise Marine Corps Installations West received that alert and quickly began communicating a plan to lower their electrical footprint...

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U.S. Marines and Sailors render a salute during a memorial service at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 21. - U.S. Marines and Sailors render a salute during a memorial service at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 21.

Battalion Landing Team 1/4 honors Marines, Sailor at memorial service

Service members and families gathered on the morning of Aug. 21 to pay tribute to nine fallen service members of Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The memorial was held at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton’s Camp Horno area to honor eight Marines and a Sailor from the 15th MEU who died in an assault amphibious vehicle mishap July 30...

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Recruit Austin Ferrell fires his M16A4 Service Rifle during the Table One course of fire on Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island S.C. July 30. - Recruit Austin Ferrell fires his M16A4 Service Rifle during the Table One course of fire on Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island S.C. July 30.

Deadliest Recruit on Parris Island

Recruit Austin Ferrell has been shooting, building and machining rifles all of his life, so when he arrived to Chosin Rifle Range aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, he felt right at home. Ferrell anticipated performing well on the range but never expected to walk away with the highest rifle score in the history of the depot. He would score a near perfect 248 out of 250 on Table One of the Department of Defense’s toughest basic marksmanship challenge, the Marine Corps rifle qualification test...

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Remains of missing Marines, Sailor successfully recovered

The remains of seven Marines and a Sailor were successfully recovered August 7, after underwater salvage operations following the July 30 mishap involving an amphibious assault vehicle off the coast of San Clemente Island. The recovered Marines and Sailor will soon be transferred to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, for preparation by mortuary affairs teams for burial. Marine and Navy pallbearers will place the remains aboard an aircraft bound for Dover AFB in a solemn transfer. From Dover AFB, their remains will then be released to their families in accordance with their wishes.

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A U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk pilot returns to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island during ongoing search and rescue operations following an AAV-P7/A1 assault amphibious vehicle mishap off the coast of Southern California, July 30, 2020. Assisting in the search and rescue operations are the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn, multiple U.S. Navy MH-60 helicopters and small boats from USS Makin Island, the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset, the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour and a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Sector San Diego. - A U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk pilot returns to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island during ongoing search and rescue operations following an AAV-P7/A1 assault amphibious vehicle mishap off the coast of Southern California, July 30, 2020. Assisting in the search and rescue operations are the guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn, multiple U.S. Navy MH-60 helicopters and small boats from USS Makin Island, the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset, the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Forrest Rednour and a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Sector San Diego.

SEARCH AND RESCUE FOR MISSING SERVICE MEMBERS CONCLUDES

After an extensive 40-hour search, the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group concluded their search and rescue operation for seven missing Marines and one Sailor, today.All eight service members are presumed deceased The 15th MEU and the ARG leadership determined that there was

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Lt. Col. Christopher Tsirlis presents his son, Christian, with the $180,000 Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarship during his high school awards night in 2019. - Lt. Col. Christopher Tsirlis presents his son, Christian, with the $180,000 Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarship during his high school awards night in 2019.

A Legacy of Service

Christian Tsirlis, former Lakeville South High School student and 2019 high school graduate, did not have the typical Minnesotan upbringing. Thanks to his dad’s military service, his childhood was unique, full of adventure and travel to exotic lands. While many teenagers might regret moving from town to town and school to school every few years, Christian relished the opportunity to gain new experiences and learn about new cultures. He was even inspired to become something most Americans never will, an officer in the United States Marine Corps...

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A 105mm Howitzer fires to start the 2017 Marine Corps Marathon , Arlington, Va., Oct. 22, 2017. - A 105mm Howitzer fires to start the 2017 Marine Corps Marathon , Arlington, Va., Oct. 22, 2017.

Marine Corps Marathon goes virtual

The novel coronavirus pandemic has claimed another big event for runners. Marine Corps Marathon officials announced July 20 that the traditional fall race will be canceled for the first time in its 45-year history. The 2020 in-person Marine Corps Marathon events scheduled to take place in and around Washington, D.C., from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25 will now go entirely virtual. Rick Nealis, the Marine Corps Marathon Organization’s director, said the decision was made after several meetings with local government and public health officials...

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Dale Askew pulls out a stretcher from the back of an ambulance at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., June 29. - Dale Askew pulls out a stretcher from the back of an ambulance at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., June 29.

In Your Time of Need: The Importance of EMS

On an average day, people don’t typically think about the worst happening at any moment, but then a sudden pain fills your chest, a family member has an asthmatic episode, or maybe someone close to you begins to have an allergic reaction. After a call to 911, Emergency Medical Services’ job begins. At Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, our Cherry Point Fire & Emergency Services are at the ready...

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LaNell Mayberry poses with myriad FOCUS information and tools used to help military families aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, July 7. - LaNell Mayberry poses with myriad FOCUS information and tools used to help military families aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California, July 7.

FOCUSing on helping military families

In addition to myriad stressors in the world currently, military service members and their families face unique challenges that Families OverComing Under Stress are eager to assist with aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif. “Military life comes with a very unique set of challenges,” said LaNell Mayberry, who holds a Master of Arts in Psychology, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as the FOCUS Family Resilience Trainer. “Military families also have a strong set of skills already in place including resourcefulness and resilience..."

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Marine recruiters and future Marines with Recruiting Sub-Station Burbank, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, pose for a photo after volunteering with the Justin and Kourtney Turner Food Bank in Los Angeles, June 20. - Marine recruiters and future Marines with Recruiting Sub-Station Burbank, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, pose for a photo after volunteering with the Justin and Kourtney Turner Food Bank in Los Angeles, June 20.

Marines lend a helping hand at L.A. Dream Center

Marines and future Marines from Recruiting Sub-Station Burbank, Recruiting Station Los Angeles, were invited to join the Justin and Kourtney Turner Food Bank at the Dream Center Foundation in Los Angeles to lend a helping hand to their local community. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Los Angeles County has seen an increase in more confirmed cases than the surrounding counties. Joined by other volunteer organizations, the RSS Burbank Marines sorted and separated food into 200 boxes which can feed up to 800 people...

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Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10. - Owen Conner, uniforms and heraldry curator with the National Museum of the Marine Corps, inspects medal collection belonging to U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Russell Rose at warehouse 2288, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 10.

Camp Pendleton Base Archives Section preserves the history of the Marine Corps

The Marine Corps has a long-established history, which is cherished and preserved by all Marines who earn the title. The History and Museum Branch's Base Archives Section aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton works to aid in preserving the history and distinguished legacy of the Marine Corps. "It is the mission of the History and Museum Branch to collect, preserve, research, exhibit and provide educational programming to promulgate the history of MCB Camp Pendleton and its personnel for present-day and future generations..."

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U.S. Marines stand in front of the boat they used to help rescue a father and son on the Potomac River in Nanjemoy, Maryland, June 14. - U.S. Marines stand in front of the boat they used to help rescue a father and son on the Potomac River in Nanjemoy, Maryland, June 14.