CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force conducted ‘Back in the Saddle’ training aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., the week of Jan 6.
Back in the Saddle provides a fresh start and a smooth way to transition back to the work rhythm after the holidays leave block, while maintaining high standards and work efficiency within the Marine Corps.
The training, which consists of lectured-based classes, focuses on reiterating safety habits to Marines after the long holiday break, said 1st Lt. Alec J. Peiffer, a training officer with 9th Communication Battalion.
“We need all of our Marines technically proficient and physically and mentally prepared to meet the challenges this year will bring,” said Peiffer.
The classes for this year’s training touched on topics like sexual harassment, zero tolerance on drugs, and alcohol related incidents among others, said Sgt. Michael Heath, a battalion operations clerk with 9th Comm. Bn.
The training also helps Marines prepare for the tasks that will be presented to them throughout the year.
Lance Cpl. Justin Shaw, a military policeman with 1st Law Enforcement Battalion said the briefs are helpful, and that it’s important to go over topics that might be forgotten throughout the year.
Heath said he expects Marines to come back to work with the attitude every Marine should have, ready to work and to hit the ground running.
Peiffer also said this year is expected to be a busy one for the battalion with a high operational tempo. Therefore, ‘Back in the Saddle’ training is a helpful way to set the tone.