the jet stream, april 18, 2014
DESCRIPTION
Justin Moore goes "Off the beaten path" to Fightertown; Company grade officers offered reserve opportunities; Roughnecks welcome new CO; Force Shaping: Officers offered early outTRANSCRIPT
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233
n News Briefs
n Around The Corps
n In The CommunityStarbase applies STEM to careers
Page 4
Stream
TheJet Friday, April 18, 2014
Vol. 49, No. 15Marine Corps Air Station
Beaufort, S.C.
“The noise you hear is the sound of freedom.”
n Weather
n Entertainment
410
WWII POW remembers
See Page 15
Beaufort County JROTC visits FightertownPage 12
Sweathogs welcome new sergeant majorPage 13
Thousands of spectators attended country musician Justin Moore’s “Off the Beaten Path” tour aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 12. Justin Moore, Randy Houser and Josh Thomp-son performed for hundreds of Beaufort residents. The concert, which was open to the public, was organized by Marine Corps Community Services to entertain service members and allow them to kick up their feet and enjoy the music. For more pictures, tag them at www.facebook.com/MCASBeaufort.
Lance Cpl. Brendan RoethelStaff Writer
Thousands of spectators at-tended country musician Justin Moore’s “Off the Beaten Path” tour aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 12.
Moore, recently named “best new artist of the year” at the 49th Academy of Country Mu-sic Awards, headlined the show with guests Randy Houser and Josh Thompson. The concert,
which was open to the public, was organized by Marine Corps Community Services to enter-tain service members and allow them to kick up their feet and enjoy the music.
“Wherever I go, our nation’s troops and military families are never far from my thoughts and prayers,” Moore said. “The dedi-cation and sacrifice of these ser-vice members mean the world to me, and are the reason I’m able to live out my dreams today. I
can’t thank them enough for everything they do for us every day. I am honored to perform for them.”
Moore has released three al-bums: Justin Moore in 2009, Outlaws Like Me in 2011, and Off the Beaten Path in 2013. He has charted eight times on the Hot Country Songs charts, including number one hits “Small Town USA”, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away”, and “Til My Last Day”.
“I think performing for the
military is one of the most awe-some experiences I’ve ever had,” said Thompson. “It’s exciting to be able to come here to perform. This is amazing and I’m glad to be here. Thank you all for ev-erything you do for our coun-try. Without you events like this could not be possible.”
Thompson released his debut album Way Out Here in January 2010. The album has produced three top 40 hits for him on the charts: “Beer on the Table”, “Way
Out Here” and “Won’t Be Lonely Long”. In 2013, Thompson re-leased “Cold Beer with Your Name on It”.
“I just want to say thank you to the troops,” said Houser. “The military personnel dedicate years of their lives to help this country and protect the way of life that I have. I want you all to know that this performance is
JUSTIN MOORE“OFF THE BEATEN PATH”
GOES
FIGHTERTOWN
see ConCert, page 8
Roughnecks welcome new COCpl. Timothy NorrisStaff Writer
Maj. Lisa Deitle relinquished command of Combat Logis-tics Company 23 to Capt. Matthew Grill during a change of command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 14.
Deitle who has served as the commanding officer of the Roughnecks since July 2012 and will be the next execu-tive officer of 4th Recruit Training Battalion aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.
“It’s a legacy,” Deitle said. “I had the privilege of being at the helm to drive the ship for a while and now he has the privilege of being at the helm. He’s enthusiastic and ready to go. He’ll bring something new and make the detach-ment better.”
Grill’s previous duty station was with 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, known as the Magnificent Bastards. He served as the ordnance officer, field mess officer, embark officer, unit user account manager and equal opportunity officer.
“I’m coming from a very operational-driven unit; it was
see roughneCks, page 7
TO
Cpl. John Wilkes
Lance Cpl. Brendan RoethelStaff Writer
Marine officers looking to separate from active duty early can apply for the Of-ficer Voluntary Early Re-lease program, according to Marine Administrative Message 178/14, released Apr. 4.
The program is a cost-saving initiative that allows active duty Marine Officers, with an end of active ser-vice date from Oct. 1, 2014 to Sept. 30, 2016, to volun-tarily separate the Corps up to 180 days prior to their current EAS; however, it
doesn’t exempt Marines from completing reserve or ready reserve obligations on their contract.
“Upon early release, the Marine will be considered to have completed their full active service,” said Gun-nery Sgt. Orion Murray, the career planner for Head-quarters and Headquarters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “Applicants should apply as soon as possible and sub-mit their packages at least 30 days before their re-quested early release date.”
Requirements to be ac-cepted for the OVER pro-
gram include being eligible for an honorable or general under honorable condi-tions discharge and com-pleting all pre-separation counseling and medical separation qualifications prior to their early release. Marines must not be sched-uled to go on a deployment at the time of their request-ed early release.
Marines with Post-Trau-matic Stress Disorder or traumatic brain injury will not be separated under the program until the treat-ment process is complete or a waiver of treatment evaluation has been ap-
proved. Marines pending court-martial or adverse administrative action are not eligible for this pro-gram until all administra-tive action is complete. Marine officers who have accepted a career designa-tion, or are currently on ter-minal leave pending sepa-ration cannot apply.
Marine officers who are indebted to the govern-ment, to include leave, also cannot participate in the program until they are no longer in debt. Indebted Marines desiring to sep-
Force Shaping: Officers offered early out
Lance Cpl. Brendan RoethelStaff Writer
Active duty company grade officers can transition to the Marine Corps Reserves early through the Company Grade Officer Early Out Program, according to Marine administrative message 179/14, released April 7.
The program is a force-shaping reduction program available to officers from second lieutenant to captain. This program allows active duty officers to continue their careers as reservists. It’s also an opportunity to
guarantee a reserve billet no earlier than 120 days prior to reaching their end of active service date. All applicants must enter into a contract and commit to a minimum two-year obligation with the Marine Corps Reserve.
Individual Marines must submit requests to partici-pate in the early out program with their command. Officers interested in this program are encouraged to submit their package no earlier than 18 months from
Company grade officers offered reserve opportunities
see early out, page 6
see release, page 6
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 Games and Entertainment2
Mess hall MenuSaturday, Sunday and holidaysBrunch: 8:30 - 11 a.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m.
Midrats
Sunday - Thursday11:30 p.m. - 1 a.m.
Monday - FridayBreakfast: 6 - 7:30 a.m.Lunch: 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Dinner: 4 - 6 p.m.
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
Fraud, Waste and AbuseIf you know of or suspect any fraud, waste or abuse aboard MCAS Beaufort, call 228-7777.If you know of or suspect any fraud, waste or abuse within MAG-31, call (252) 466-5038.The automated answering service on these lines is available 24 hours a day.
The contact number for a Uniformed Victim Advocate is 592-0646. This number can get you in contact with a UVA 24 hours a day.
Hotlines
Mission Assurance
Sexual Assault
MCAS Beaufort Station InspectorSexual Assault Response CoordinatorForce Protection infor-mation and concernsPMO DispatchSevere Weather and Force Protection
228-7789
228-6904
228-6924
228-6710
1-800-343-0639
Roman Catholic • 9:30 a.m. - Sunday Mass • Confession takes place before Mass• Confession Monday - Thursday at noon
Protestant • 9:45 a.m. - Protestant Church School (Sunday School) • 11 a.m. - Protestant Sunday Worship Service (Children’s church is also available at this time) • 5 p.m. - Wednesday Protestant Bible Study• 5 p.m. - Saturday Worship Service at Laurel Bay Youth Center
Buddhist• 11 a.m. - Saturday Worship Service in the Chapel Fellowship Hall
Labyrinth Walk• 8 a.m - 4 p.m. - Monday in the Chapel Fellowship Hall
Other Faith Groups• For Jewish, Mormon and Islamic support, contact the Chaplain’s Office at 228-7775
Chapel serviCes
Easter Word Search
Sudoku
Answer key will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
Takeout Window Hours:
Lunch - Mon. - Fri. 12:45 p.m. - 4 p.m.Dinner - Mon. - Fri. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Breakfast - Mon. - Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Saturday 2 p.m.PG (1:32)
Saturday 4:30 p.m.PG-13 (1:51)
Saturday 7 p.m.PG-13 (1:57)
MCAS Beaufort Movie Schedule
Sunday 2 p.m.PG (1:32)
Sunday 4:30 p.m.PG (1:48)
MCRD Parris Island Movie Schedule
SaturdayLunch
Beef short ribs and roasted zucchini
Dinner Bayou jerk pork loin
and riceSunday
LunchSalmon with
cucumber relish
DinnerBaked ziti with italian sausage
Monday - Friday Breakfast
LunchBaked smoked ham and sweet potatoes
DinnerSpicy shrimp with
cheesy gritsTuesday
LunchChicken and dump-
lings and rice
DinnerHerbed roast pork
loin with pan gravyWednesday
LunchRoast turkey and
green beans
DinnerManhattan clam
chowderThursday
LunchArroz con pollo and
garlic bread
DinnerApple glazed corn beef and squash
MondayHot farina, hot hominy grits and oven-fried bacon
FridayLunch
Herbed baked chicken and carrots
DinnerChili macaroni and
green beans
No EveningMovie
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014Command Information
The 8th Annual Earth Day Fun Walk is scheduled to take place April 22, at Elliot’s Beach aboard MCRD Parris Island at 11 a.m. All ages are welcome. For more information call 228-4930.
The Eggstravaganza Easter Celebration is scheduled to take place April 19, at the youth sports field aboard Laurel Bay. The Easter Bunny will be available for pictures. For more information call 228-7333.
The MCAS Beaufort Pistol Range is cancelling Recreational Fire until further notice due to range maintenance. For more information call Station Training at 228-6642.
3
Today as I was running late for work, I quickly got dressed and threw a t-shirt on in the dark. I had it on inside out with my right arm in the left sleeve, and my left arm in the right sleeve. Where was the label?
Brain Teaser
Answer for this week’s brain teaser will be available on facebook.com/MCASBeaufort on April 23.
The Single Marine and Sailor Program Paintball Trip is slated to take place May 3. Registration is required. For more information call 228-6246.
Editor’s note: We at The Jet Stream care about our reader’s opinion. In reaching our goal to put out the best possible product, we understand the importance of your feedback. Please add a comment to the “How can we improve The Jet Stream?” topic on our www.facebook.com/MCASBeaufort discussion board on how we can better your base newspaper.
Published by the Savannah Morning News, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense, the United States Marine Corps, the United States Navy, or Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., under exclusive written contract with the United States Marine Corps. This commercial-enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Its con-tents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Marine Corps or the U.S. Navy and do not imply endorsement thereof. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD, the Marine Corps, the Navy, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C., or the Savannah Morning News of the products or services advertised. Everything in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physi-cal handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the contractor shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content (i.e., all content other than paid advertisements) is edited, prepared and provided by the public affairs office of the installation. All queries concerning news and editorial content should be directed to: Jet Stream, Marine Corps Public Affairs Office, P.O. Box 55001, MCAS Beaufort, S.C., 29904 or (843) 228-7225. All queries concerning business matters or display ads should be directed to the Savannah Morning News at (843) 815-0800.
Commanding Officer MCAS BeaufortCol. Peter D. Buck
Public Affairs OfficerCapt. Jordan Cochran
Public Affairs ChiefGunnery Sgt. Stephen Traynham
Press ChiefStaff Sgt. Terika S. King
Comm/Media Relations ChiefSgt. Marcy Sanchez
EditorCpl. John Wilkes
Staff WritersCpl. Sarah CherryCpl. Timothy NorrisCpl. Brady WoodLance Cpl. Brendan Roethel
StreamTheJet
Contact us:228-7225
[email protected][email protected]
facebook.com/MCASBeaufort
youtube.com/mcasbeaufortsc1
beaufort.Marines.mil
Tri-Command Weather
Happenings
7 Day Forecast
Forecast according to weather.com
The photocopying of U.S. Government identification cards is a violation of Title 18, U.S. Code Part I, Chapter 33, Section 701 and punishable by fine and imprisonment.
High ShooterGunnery Sgt. S. St. Louis
MWSS-273
376
Legal Assistance Office
The following is an example based on real cases handled by Legal Assistance. The facts have been adjusted to protect the privacy of individuals involved.
Rental leases can raise unique issues for service members and their families. Many of these issues are addressed by the Ser-vice Members’ Civil Relief Act.
This information is not intended as legal advice. Consult a legal assistance attorney if you are experiencing a similar situation.
A staff sergeant signs a residential lease agreement with First Apartment Homes from April 2010 to 2012. The staff sergeant goes on terminal leave at the end of No-vember and wants to move back to his hometown in Texas, in preparation for the end of his active service in January.
The staff sergeant attempts to break
the lease, but First Apartment Homes references a military clause in the lease agreement allowing the tenant to break the lease upon “separation.” The property argues that this provision applies only to involuntary separation.
Chapter U5000B.4a. of the Joint Federal Travel Regulation includes, in a definition of “PCS travel types,” travel from the ser-vicemember’s last Permanent Duty Station (PDS) to home “upon … discharge, resig-nation, or separation from the Service un-der honorable conditions.”
The United States Department of Justice stands prepared to enforce the SCRA early lease termination provision in such cases.
In March of 2012, the Department of Jus-tice sued a property management com-pany for carrying forward company policy not allowing early lease termination for those who are getting out of the service.
Be sure to negotiate this protection into your lease terms and, seek out legal assis-tance in order to safeguard your rights and privileges.
The Legal Assistance section of Legal Services Support Team Parris Island, which provides Legal Services for MCAS Beau-fort, MCRD Parris Island, MCLB Albany, and Blount Island is available to provide legal advice on all matters related to the SCRA, rental leases, landlord-tenant matters, and various other legal issues.
Legal Assistance appointments are no longer available on MCAS Beaufort. Please call (843) 228-2559 to schedule an ap-pointment. Refer to the LSST PI Legal As-sistance website for more information on the SCRA and services available at Legal Assitance: https://www.mcrdpi.usmc.mil/ops/lawcenter/SitePages/Legal%20Assis-tance.aspx
A Rape Agression Defense Class is scheduled to take place April 30, at the log cabin aboard MCAS Beaufort from 6 - 9 p.m. Registration is required. For more information call 228-1580.
April 21, 1951, Marine carrier-based airplanes made their first aerial contact with enemy planes over the Korean front lines. Captain Philip C. Delong shot down two YAK fighters and 1st Lieutenant Harold D. Daigh destroyed one more and damaged another in the heavily defended Pyongyang-Chinnan-po area. Both pilots were with VMF-312 flying from the USS Bataan.
Did you know...
Service Members Civil Relief Act
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 20144 In The Community
Lance Cpl. Brendan RoethelStaff Writer
Fifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal spent a week aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort participating in the Star-base program, Apr. 6-11.
Starbase is a Depart-ment of Defense program implemented to expose youth to the technologi-cal environments found throughout military bases and installations. Starbase incorporates concepts used in Science, Technolo-gy, Engineering and Math, while introducing new tools, technologies and experimental applications in the school’s curriculum.
Students were taught how to use a three dimen-sional printer, advanced engineering computer programs, and more. They also conducted experi-ments involving physics,
chemistry and engineer-ing, such as testing and comparing how different chemicals react with wa-ter.
“Allowing the children to learn hands-on really helps them think outside of the box, and see how what they learn in their own classrooms is applied in real life,” said Savanah French, the lead instruc-tor for Starbase. “This cur-riculum gets the students outside of their classroom and in a different and fun environment to learn. It also encourages them to be motivated and more proactive learners.”
The DoD Starbase cur-riculum includes 3.5 hours in physics, 3.5 hours in chemistry, 4 hours in technology, 4 hours in engineering, 2 hours in mathematics operations and applications, and 1.5 hours in STEM careers.
The course curriculum
also extends from the classroom to squadrons where students are able to meet pilots, Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines or service mem-bers in other professions. This allows the students to see how STEM affects the daily lives of Marines in various occupations.
“This is a great expe-rience,” said Ty Farley, a fifth-grade student at Bridges Preparatory School. “It has opened my eyes to so many different jobs, and gave me tools I can take away and use for the rest of my life.”
A graduation ceremony is held at the end of the weeklong class to recog-nize the students for their accomplishments while aboard the Air Station.
For more information about the DoD Starbase visit www.dodstarbase.org. To schedule a visit, call 524-1320.
Starbase inspires youth to reach for the starsFifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal spent a week aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort participating in the Starbase program, Apr. 6-11. Students were taught how to use a three dimensional printer, advanced engineering computer programs, and more. They also conducted experiments involving physics, chemistry and engineering, such as testing and comparing how different chemicals react with water.
Fifth-grade students from Bridges Preparatory School in Port Royal conduct experi-ments on the effects of chemical reactions during a Starbase class aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Apr. 8. The Starbase program focuses on elementary students. The programs mission is to motivate the students to explore Science, Technology, Engineer-ing and Math as they continue their education.
Tri-Command children branch out with STEMposium
James Richmann, a seventh grade student at Bolden Elementary and Middle School, presents his robot project during the STEMposium, April 10. Seventh and eighth grade students chose between developing a robot or video game, developing their science, technology, engineer-ing and math skills.
Elementary school children present their science, technology, engineering and math projects at Bolden Elementary and Middle School, April 10. Bolden implemented their first STEM focused event last year, and teachers are currently expanding the STEM curriculum.
Cpl. Sarah CherryStaff Writer
Bolden Elementary and Middle School held their second STEMposium, an event focused on introducing students to science, technolo-gy, engineering and math projects and career fields, April 9 through 11.
The STEMposium is a three-day event in-cluding a career day, a student project compe-tition, and an award ceremony.
“We know for a fact that this is what the kids need,” said Javier Graham, STEMposium coordinator and video production teacher at Bolden. “They’re so engaged.”
This year is the schools second year holding the STEMposium.
“I can see advancement from what I saw last year,” said Graham. “The kids are adding more coding, costumes, figures and characters. There’s a definite increase in [skill].”
Each grade had a different focus for this proj-ect. Sixth-grade students had a NASA project building rockets, satellites, and solar ovens for
a trip to the moon. Seventh and eighth grade students built robots and computer games.
The day students presented their projects and the previous day, professionals talked to students about different STEM career paths and their value.
“All of our equipment within the explosive ordnance disposal field deals with science, technology, engineering and math,” said Mas-ter Sgt. Jason Chrjapin, explosive ordnance disposal technician. “The next robot designer for the EOD field is out there somewhere. They could quite possibly be here at this elementary school.”
According to the U.S. Department of Edu-cation, the United States position as a global leader is reliant on youth pursuing STEM ca-reers and interests.
“This is America’s next generation,” said Staff Sgt. Timothy Golden, EOD technician. “Invest-ing in them [with STEM education] might spark an interest in learning so that they’ll want to educate themselves more than just the bare basics.”
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 5In The Community
Cpl. Timothy NorrisStaff Writer
Cub Scouts with Pack 283 of the Coastal Carolina Council raced up and down the streets of Laurel Bay during a bike rally, April 5.
The rally helped teach the scouts about bike maintenance and safety, culminating in a short bike ride as a pack around Laurel Bay.
Cub Scouts is an organization that prepares boys age seven to 10 for Boy Scouts. The programs focus on citizenship, education, physical fitness and strong mor-al principles.
“Today they learned about bike safety, which is paramount,” said Israel Gonzales, a den leader for Pack 283. “While they are riding their bikes on Laurel Bay they need to wear their safety equip-ment properly and know the
traffic laws. They also learned how to check their bicycles to make sure they work properly.”
Several Boy Scouts from troop one of the council took an ac-tive role in the event as they demonstrated to their younger peers how to properly inspect and make minor adjustments to their bikes.
“It was fun,” said Kobyn Hou-sel, a Cub Scout with Pack 283, adding that his new knowledge
“makes me feel more safe when riding a bike.”
Each participating Cub Scout earned a bicycling belt loop and bike rally patch after the short trip around Laurel Bay.
Gonzales said that scouting is a great way to help teach life skills that will help them later in life.
“It is a great organization,” he said. “They have a lot of fun and they are learning good moral
principles like how to be a good citizen.”
He also added that scouting is also a great program for military families because of the mentor-ship available to children whos’ fathers are deployed.
“Sometimes [when a parent] is not there because of deploy-ments,” Gonzales said. “Having something to look forward to that guides and mentors them is why scouts is good for them.”
Pack 283 rides across Laurel BayCub Scouts with Pack 283 of the Coastal Carolina Council raced up and down the streets of Laurel Bay during a bike rally, April 5. Each participating Cub Scout earned a bicycling belt loop and bike rally patch after the short trip around Laurel Bay.
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 20146 More of The Story
their requested EAS, and no later than six months prior to their requested EAS. The officer's re-quested EAS must come before Sept. 30, 2016. Officers shall en-sure their paperwork is received at Headquarters Marine Corps no later than four months prior to their requested EAS.
The early out program allows participants to access the TRI-
CARE Transitional Assistance Management Program, which in-cludes a six-month extension of their existing TRICARE benefits at no cost to the transitioning Marine. Monetary and retraining incentives may be applied for in conjunction with the Marine’s early out request.
“The TAMP provides 180 days of premium-free transitional health care benefits after regular TRI-CARE benefits end,” said Gunnery Sgt. Orion Murray, career planner for Headquarters and Headquar-
ters Squadron aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.
To be eligible for the program officers must not be career des-ignated or screened, and not se-lected for career designation.
Marines separated from active duty under the program will be classified as having completed their obligated period of active duty. Early separation under this program allows Marines to receive all of their applicable benefits.
For more information view MARADMIN 179/14.
arate early can make accelerated repayments of their debts by increasing scheduled installment amounts, and by making cash collections to repay their indebt-edness.
Marines released under the OVER program will be considered as having completed their obligated peri-od of active duty. Early separation under this program allows service members to receive all of their appli-cable benefits.
For more information on the OVER program, view MARADMIN 178/14.
EARLY OUTcontinued from page 1
RELEASEcontinued from page 1
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 7More of The Story
When the “Checkerboards” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312 flew its final mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom March 19, it was also the U.S. Marine Corps’ last OEF mission for its F/A-18 Hornets. “It’s a culmination of what the Marine Corps stands for,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Miller, VMFA-312 commanding officer. “We represent all of the Marines that have come over here and fought. It means a lot to be able to support our brothers and coalition forces that are currently on the ground and to close a chapter for the Marine Corps.”
Closing an era
our main focus,” said Grill, a native of Phoenix, Ariz. “Now my focus is more on the administrative side, taking care of the Marines and ensuring there’re ready for a high operational tempo.”
Refreshments were served after the ceremony and both Grill and Deitle went from one Marine to another taking time to speak with everyone.
“She really looked out for the Marines,” said Sgt. Daniel Rec-tor, CLC-23 automotive mechanic. “She’s always trying to bet-ter the junior Marines and the unit as a whole and I’m eager to see what the captain has in store for the [unit].”
Grill arrived at the Air Station several weeks prior to the
change of command to help with a smooth transition and embedded himself with the unit. He was not dissapointed with what he observed of the Roughnecks.
“Even though I’ve been here a short time I think the world of these Marines,” Grill said. “I came from a unit with extremely close-knit Marines and I’ve seen that same brotherhood here. They are an impressive group of Marines and I’m proud to be a part of their unit.”
ROUGHNECKScontinued from page 1
Courtesy Photo
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 20148 More of The Story
Justin Moore, Randy Houser, Josh Thompson rock Fightertown
for you. I can’t thank you all enough for keeping our nation and way of life secure.”
Randy Houser charted the single “Anything Goes”. It was a top 20 hit on the Billboard country singles chart and the title track to his debut album of the same name, which also produced his first top 10 hit, “Boots On”. In 2012, he reached number one with “How Country Feels”, the title track to his third album, and with “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” in 2013.
During the performance, hit songs
“Bait a Hook” by Moore, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” by Houser and “Cold Beer with Your Name on It” by Thompson were performed.
“Marines this event is for you,” said Col. Peter Buck, the commanding officer for Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. “You have all been doing really well, working hard and keep-ing your nose clean. I thank you for everything you do to keep the Air Station up and running, and I hope you all enjoy the performance.”
At the end of the performance the musicians thanked the fans for at-tending the concert and supporting them. They also thanked the service members of the Tri-Command for their continued service.
CONCERTcontinued from page 1
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 9Classifieds
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 201410 Around The Corps
Corps Shot
Su Song Ri Range, Pohang, South Korea - M1A1 Abrams Tanks with Company C., 4th Tank Battalion, Marine Corps Forces Reserve, fire 120mm rounds at targets during a combined arms, live-fire exercise (CALFEX) as part of Exercise Ssang Yong 2014, April 4.
LCpl. Andrew Kuppers
Corps Bits
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Marines with Marine Trans-port Squadron 1 departed Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point April 8 in one of the squadron’s C-9B Skytrains in support of II Marine Expeditionary Force.
The unit has committed a UC-35D Cita-tion in support of Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Crisis Response, said Lt. Col. Brain D. Bernth, VMR-1 com-manding officer.
SP-MAGTF Crisis Response is a rotation-al force of Marines and sailors temporar-ily stationed at Moron Air Base, Spain. The unit was stood up to a provide a broad range of military capabilities to respond to crises in its area of responsibility to include non-combatant evacuation, hu-manitarian assistance, disaster relief, and support to U.S. embassies, and other op-erations as directed by national and com-mand leadership.
This squadron is unlike any other squadron in the Marine Corps. The most visible mission Marines and sailors per-form is critical medical evacuations and search and rescue support with their HH-46E Sea Knight helicopters. A less vis-ible but important mission is providing movement for high priority passengers and cargo in support of wartime opera-tions, said Bernth. But the squadron is new to providing operational support to crisis response forces.
Bernth said that the use of their Sky-train helps the MAGTF greatly because the squadron has the ability to ferry es-sential personnel and gear fast and on short notice. Unlike the KC-130J Hercules or MV-22B Osprey, they get to key loca-tions in just under a day. That critical ele-ment is what allows VMR-1 and their Sky-trains to be an “ace in the hole,” he said.
VMR-1 is able to come together as a whole and shuffle their aircraft around, allowing them to rely heavily on their Skytrain and Citation to support various contingency forces and transport per-sonnel and cargo when needed, while their Sea Knights perform search and res-cue missions.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- With flames, smoke and gallons of water dancing over a fire rescue training aircraft, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Marines learned the basics of shipboard firefighting at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., April 3.
Members of Marine Attack Squadron 542 hosted six sailors with the Center for Naval Aviation and Technical Training, Lemoore, Calif., in preparation for an upcoming deploy-ment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
VMA-542 Marines learned about personal protective equipment, flight and hangar deck equipment and systems, and procedures and techniques for combating fires, according to Chief Petty Officer Daniel Guevara.
The Marines spent a full day training and learning the foundations and tactics of ship-board firefighting because, aboard ship, each crewmember is a first responder. During emergencies, there is no calling 911, every-one has a responsibility to act, according to Guevara.
“This course teaches Marines the basics of what to do in case of an emergency aboard a ship,” said Guevara.
For many of the Marines in the class, fight-ing aircraft fires is not part of their day-to-day duties. Training and learning from the CNATT Sailors helped the squadron’s Marines further prepare for their assigned roles while under-way.
During training, each Marine had several opportunities to practice different roles as part of a hose-crew. Each Marine had the op-portunity to control the hose nozzle during dry-run practice and then with flames. This allowed the Marines to experience each po-sition of the hose, ensuring that they will be ready to jump into any position if needed.
VMA-542 Marines learn shipboard firefighting
Multinational participation key factor to Exercise African Lion
‘Ace in the hole,’ VMR-1 sup-ports contingency operations
An MV-22B Osprey from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response flies into Tifnit, Morocco, to demonstrate the rapid-response capability of the airframe during a multinational observer day for African Lion 14. Exercise African Lion is U.S. Africa Command’s flagship program in Northern Africa to build partner-nation capacity and interoperability. The African Lion 14 Observer Program was built to showcase the exercise to potential participants, setting the foundation for more robust military engagements in future iterations.
Sgt. Frances JohnsonMarine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan
AGADIR, Morocco --In the current global-security
environment, one nation isn’t enough. After decades of over-seas contingency operations, from the sands of Afghanistan to the jungles of Mali, coalitions are a clear indicator of partner na-tions’ commitment to worldwide stability and security.
Exercise African Lion is U.S. Africa Command’s flagship program in Northern Africa to build partner-nation capacity and interoperability. With more regional cooperation between North African nations, bring-ing more partners into the mix would increase expertise, ca-pabilities and professionalism across the board.
“We are very keen to work to-gether with [Moroccans]; they are great partners for us and we want to practice and exercise with them as much as possible,” said Italian Commander Fernan-do Cianci, STRIKFORNATO.
This year’s multilateral event wasn’t exclusively between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United States; the three-week event hosted Geo-spatial intel-ligence professionals from the German Bundeswehr Geo-spa-tial Intelligence Office as well as members of Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, with repre-sentatives from the U.S., Portugal, Poland and Italy.
STRIKFORNATO is NATO’s pre-miere Maritime Battlestaff. One of their primary functions is to serve as a link for integrating U.S. Maritime Forces into NATO op-erations. The rapidly-deployable, maritime headquarters operates under a Memorandum of Un-derstanding, signed between 11 nations, that “provides scalable command-and-control across a full spectrum of alliance funda-mental security tasks,” according to its official webpage.
“It’s important because we have long-time friendships with these countries and we want to build a way to work together bet-ter,” said Cianci.
“When you work or exercise with other countries, you have to share; share the knowledge to do the jobs; we are showing them our ways to do jobs and they will show us their way and we find a good compromise for both of us to achieve the mission.”
The U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa-led engage-ment is one of the biggest of its kind on the continent and, during African Lion 14, hosted a multilateral event that included military observers from Maurita-nia, Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey, Great Britain, Belgium, the Nether-lands, Portugal, Germany, Spain, Senegal, Poland, Turkey, Italy and France.
“It’s great training for the Ma-rines and the Moroccans, but now we’d like to bring in some more participation and this was the first year we’ve had that op-portunity with the Observer Program,” said Marine Brig. Gen. James S. O’Meara, deputy com-mander of Marine Forces Europe and Africa.
The African Lion 14 Observer Program was built to showcase the exercise to potential partici-pants, setting the foundation for more robust military engage-ments in future iterations.
“So far it’s been very good, very positive,” said O’Meara. “It brings more of a coalition approach to help AFRICOM and Morocco, be-ing a key player in Africa, this is a great exercise to do that.”
“Bringing in more of our part-ners from Africa and Europe will bring in different expertise, in-teroperability; it will help us work together in the future by help-ing different partners learn from each other. The more ‘multilater-al’ we can make the exercise, the more we can each gain from it
and, in the future when we need to come together for contingen-cies and crises.”
The observer program includ-ed an introduction about past iterations of African Lion exercis-es, the simulated scenarios, site visits to the Moroccan military and civilian ports, and a demon-stration of stability operations by a contingent of military police officers from U.S. Marine, Army and Air Force personnel along with their counterparts. The Spe-cial-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response rapid-response capability was demon-strated with flight of two MV-22B Ospreys from Moron, Spain, di-rectly to the northwest coast of Africa.
“It’s very important from a na-val perspective; we say that no one can police the seas by them-selves, so we have to do it togeth-er,” said Senegalese Commander Baye Khoule, an observer of Afri-can Lion 14. “For [the Economic Community of West African States], we have 15 countries and have sent troops for UN mandat-ed operations – we can have the world to do that. Working with our partners will help us a lot to accomplish those missions.”
Regional partners working to-gether in an exercise the magni-tude of African Lion will provide familiarity when the time comes for real-world contingencies.
“If you work together, train to-gether, you start to think more alike, and our equipment works well together, all of that will make the transition for a coalition a little easier from an ice-cold start of never working together,” said O’Meara.
The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade operated its capacity to integrate with partner-nation militaries and respond to con-tingencies if it were deployed to support contingencies with a scalable, joint task force of Ma-rines and fellow U.S. service com-ponents.
“In a crisis, the first time you’re planning it, you don’t want the people you’re working with to be the first time you’ve ever seen them. This year, having the 2nd MEB and SP-MAGTF Crisis Re-sponse here, all that has added to the benefit of the exercise,” said O’Meara.
Next year’s scheduled iteration, African Lion 15, has already been slated as a more profound train-ing engagement, with more ser-vicemembers from more nations, robust live-fire engagements, and aerial tactics and training workshops with support from an international contingent of fighter-jet squadrons.
“If not for any other reason, to at least share the same concerns on a global perspective and try to find common solutions for com-mon problems, there’s no better way with dealing with a problem or situation than knowing your partner, knowing where they’re strong, where they’re weak, so challenges can be easily over-come,” said Portuguese Navy Commander Manual A. Mota, STRIKFORNATO.
The engagement hopes to build more proficiency and main-tain the partnerships it’s been built, progressing every year to work toward international inte-gration of armed services sharing knowledge, tactics and proce-dures, especially those partners in the region.
“Any multinational coalition has this virtue, of bringing differ-ent ideas, different ways of doing the same business and bringing things into context and hopefully we, together, find the optimized solution for similar problems that each one individually would have to deal with.”
African Lion 14 concluded its ninth iteration April 5. The exer-cise hopes to bolster more robust participation to promote stabil-ity and security of the region by working with long-time partners and strategic friendships.
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 11Around The Corps
Fightertown deployed:VMFA(AW)-224 Bengals
are currently deployed to the Western Pacific as part of the Unit Deployment
Program.
Corps Bits
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Explosions shook the valley as the Ma-rines with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, put mortars on target from hundreds of yards away.
The unit, nicknamed “War Dogs,” traveled from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Cen-ter Twentynine Palms, Calif., to conduct a live mortar fire exercise on the different types of terrain the base has to offer here April 4, 2014.
The exercise allowed the Marines to sharp-en their skills on different mortar systems used in deployed scenarios, Kreis said.
The Marines had to judge distances for the targets and calculate the angles in order to land rounds on target while firing on foreign terrain with two types of mortar systems.
“The better Marines train and conduct themselves in a scenario like this, the bet-ter they will conduct themselves when the pressure is actually on and they need to get rounds down range,” said Cpl. Evan Bryant, a mortar man with Weapons Co. “The more practice you get in a controlled environment, the better you will be able to fire when a squad or a team of Marines needs suppres-sive fire during an operation.”
Practicing and honing their skills in a safe and practical environment is essential to the Marine’s success in the future, said Bryant, a native of Louisville, Ky.
The biggest challenge the Marines faced was adjusting and calculating for distance on challenging and unfamiliar terrain.
The Marines of Weapons Co. quickly over-came the challenges of firing in a new ter-rain and successfully put mortar fire on their targets. They continue to hone their craft on the mortar system, keep accurate and timely fire on target, and most importantly, sup-port Marines on the battlefield who need the fire support. When the mortar teams come together, they’ll prove the “War Dogs” are a deadly force.
“War Dogs” revise mortar skills
Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr.Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY -- Twisting Thun-der 2014 barreled onto Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, April 1, leaving 28 simulated fa-talities, two collapsed structures, trapped victims, a host of injuries and displaced families.
“The two-day exercise tested the procedures, plans and poli-cies in place in the event of a tor-nado on the installation as well as the coordination between part-nering agencies,” Marvin Thomas, chemical biological radiological nuclear explosives protection of-ficer, Mission Assurance Branch, MCLB Albany, said. “The goal was to return MCLB Albany to pre-incident operating conditions.”
To mimic an actual tornado event, the scenarios were cha-otic and the participants were unaware of exactly what would happen or when. This forced quick decisions to be made per-taining to how to handle each crisis, who would be involved and how, according to Thomas.
Within an hour of the simulated tornado touching down, there was a fuel spill, a missing child, a building collapse with possible victims, 12 casualties and a trans-former being destroyed reported to the emergency operations center.
As in an actual disaster, the EOC served as the command and control cell, which coordinated the efforts and operations, test-ing the base’s ability to stand up the EOC for a sustained period, according to Capt. Justin Jacobs, public affairs officer, MCLB Al-bany.
Albany and MCLB Albany fire departments worked together feverously to rescue a victim from a small space of a collapsed
building during one simulation.The scenario required the fire-
men use various heavy duty equipment to breech walls of concrete, crawl into a small con-fined space, find the victim and bring him out safely.
While in full gear, the firemen chiseled meticulously at a con-crete barrier until a hole was created large enough for person-nel to travel through. The effort included being required to take breaks during the exercise to pre-vent exhaustion and dehydra-tion. That single simulation took more than an hour to complete.
During these types of exercis-es, rescuing victims is expected. However, logistics of other is-sues relating to funding, repair to damaged buildings and accom-modations for displaced military family members were also suc-
cessfully addressed during the drill, according to Jacobs.
Throughout the exercise, eval-uators were present in the EOC as well as in the field to observe and suggest areas of improvement.
Evaluators deemed Twisting Thunder 2014 successful, ac-cording to Jacobs. It was the first exercise they have seen on the East Coast from the Marine Corps installation level that has lasted overnight.
During the roughly 30 con-secutive hours of training, Jacobs revealed many lessons were learned in effectively communi-cating within the organization as well as with entities in the com-munity.
He added it was evident this type of training is very necessary.
“We have to eliminate any single point of failure,” Jacobs
said. “We have to get everyone trained.”
Representatives from several MCLB Albany offices, including but not limited to, the Marine Corps Police Department, Public Affairs Office, Marine Corps Fire Department, Base Operations, Comptrollers’ Office and Naval Branch Health Clinic Albany, were present in the EOC.
Some of the partnering agen-cies included Georgia Emer-gency Management Agency, Georgia Department of Public Health, Dougherty County/Al-bany Emergency Management Agency, Dougherty County Cor-oner, Dougherty County Police Department, Dougherty County Emergency Medical Service, Al-bany Fire Department, Amateur Radio Association, Turner Job Corps and others.
Exercise Twisting Thunder 2014 creates havoc, trains personnel
VMFA-312 Checkerboardsare currently deployed to the
Mediterranean to promote security in the region.
POHANG, South Korea -- As soon as the back door to the CH-53E Super Stallion opens, Marines and sailors rush out fully geared with large packs on their shoulders and rifles at ready. Underneath their thud-ding boots, the pavement on airfield spread wide and far.
Marines with Company G, Battalion Land-ing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regi-ment, Regimental Landing Team 31, 3d Ma-rine Expeditionary Brigade, seized an airfield here for follow-on operations as part of Ex-ercise Ssang Yong 14, an exercise conducted from March 31 to April 5.
CH-53 Super Stallions and MV-22 Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced) provided the transportation to get the company from the USS Bohnomme Richard (LHD-6) at sea to the airfield.
After defeating a notional platoon-sized enemy force, the Marines and sailors em-placed defensive measures and around-the-clock security using M240G medium ma-chine guns, M2 .50-caliber machine guns, 81mm mortar systems and other heavy weapons.
Controlling the airfield allowed follow-on forces to flow in, as well as supplies and fuel, while also providing a hub for combined op-erations between U.S., ROK and Australian forces.
“This airfield is a key part to our allied forc-es’ interoperability,” said Cpl. Trevor W. Litch-field, a mortar man with Co. G and a native of San Diego. “Not only can the rest of the MEB flow in behind us, but using this airfield as a branching off point can strengthen posi-tions more forward than us.”
For some of the Marines, the weather conditions were a far cry from the warmer temperatures they were used to in Okinawa or San Diego. Although the temperature dropped rapidly overnight and harsh wind and rain whipped across their position, they maintained discipline and the importance of their objective was at mind.
Ssang Yong 2014 demonstrates the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ responsive amphib-ious and expeditionary capabilities from the sea. Forward-deployed Marine forces, in conjunction with allies, have the unique ability to provide rapid force deployment for the full range of military operations, specifi-cally in the Pacific region.
Company G seizes K-3 Airfield during Ssang Yong ‘14
Lance Cpl. Matthew BraggMarine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION KANEOHE BAY -- Marines and sailors with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 maintain a busy workload week in and week out in Hangar 101 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
The squadron’s mission is to maintain each aircraft and complete assigned mis-sions, as well as maintaining force readi-ness and be prepared to deploy at a mo-ment’s notice.
Known as “Scarface,” HMLA-367 is equipped with two types of aircraft: The AH-1W Super Cobra helicopter and UH-1Y Huey helicopter. Both helicopters are equipped with weapons from the nose to the tail, making “Scarface” a lethal fight-ing force in the air.
“Hueys are amazing machines,” said Lance Cpl. Killian Desbois, a Huey crew chief with HMLA-367, and a 22-year-old native of Courtland, Va. “While they’re primarily a utility helicopter they pro-vide great support with close ground op-erations. We can land and insert a small team of Marines on the battlefield, take off and cover them with air support.”
Although pilots are the ones flying the aircraft, they need someone to watch their back, ensure the aircraft runs as smooth as possible. That’s where the crew chiefs come in. Every flight is an im-portant one, so the crew chiefs inspect the entire aircraft before powering up and taking off.
“As crew chiefs, the most important thing we do is serve the pilots when we’re in the air,” said Lance Cpl. Keith McLaugh-lin, a Huey crew chief with HMLA-367, 23, from Santa Fe, Texas. “When we’re not fly-ing or getting ready to fly, we assist the
pilots in the inspection and maintenance of each aircraft. It’s our job to make sure everything is read before takeoff so there aren’t any unexpected problems when we get in the air.”
As the pilots and crew chiefs launch from the flight line in their aircraft, main-tenance Marines stay on the ground to help guide the pilots down the runway to take off.
“Scarface” conducts numerous flight operations throughout the week to sus-tain familiarity with the aircraft.
The squadron has been an integral part of MCAS Kaneohe Bay operations and the Asia-Pacific region through its two
years of service aboard the base.Though the unit is rarely at full capacity
and often stretched thin with personnel, “Scarface” still manages to complete its required annual Marine Corps training, flight training and aircraft inspections as well as participating in various exercises and deployments.
“With the Marine Corps beginning to shift its focus back to the west, we’re going to be busy with plenty of train-ing and operations,” Desbois explained. “’Scarface’ has only been a part of MCAS (Kaneohe Bay) for a couple of years, but I think we’ve already proven we’re a vital asset in the Pacific.”
HMLA-367’s ‘Scarface’ deal lethal strikes
A maintenance Marine with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 waits for a UH-1Y Huey Helicopter to depart from the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, April 9, 2014. HMLA-367 plays an important role in the everyday operations aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii and has proven to be a vital asset in the Pacific as the Marine Corps begins to shift its focus back to the west.
A fireman cuts debris to be repurposed as a tool to assist in the rescue of a simulated victim April 1 during Twisting Thunder 2014 at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany.
MALS-31 Stingersa detachment is currently deployed to the Western Pacific supporting
VMFA(AW)-224.
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 201412 In Other News
One by one Marines and the occasional sailor came to the Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron pancake breakfast at the Airfield operations building aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 11. The breakfast, organized by Lisa Montenez, the H&HS family readiness officer, gave squadron members an opportunity to socialize with other sections they normally don’t interact with. Light, fluffy pancakes cooked by volunteers, many of them spouses of Marines with the squadron, were served with an array of toppings, including fresh strawberrys, chocolate chips, whip cream and maple syrup.
H&HS pancake breakfast
Sgt. Marcy SanchezComm/Media Relations Chief
Change. The word can be used in a positive light or paint someone in a bad light. Change is particularly char-acteristic of adolescents who are seeking to find them-selves while dealing with new experiences and oppor-tunities.
Positive change is evident though in the more than 200 Beaufort County high school students who were offered the opportunity to challenge themselves during the 2014 Superintendent’s Cup at Bluffton High School in Bluff-ton, S.C., April 11.
The cup consisted of drill, physical fitness and academ-ics competitions between five Beaufort County JROTC units. The event offered ca-dets the opportunity to com-pete with each other, testing their leadership and team-work.
“We’re here to compete,” said retired Marine Col. Bob Wallace, the senior Marine instructor at Whale Branch High School. “When they get out on stage they step up and do what their supposed to do and trained to do.”
Wallace, who used to be the commanding officer of the Marine Corps’ Training Com-mand in Quantico, Va., under-stands what it takes to be a leader and was drawn to the JROTC program because of the opportunities it offered.
“I always wanted to work with youth and thought this was an awesome way to do it,” said Wallace, a native of Anthony, Fla. “I take pride in seeing the young men and women develop. That’s what the program is all about, de-veloping leadership.”
The growth of character and leadership is one char-acteristic that Bluffton resi-dents, Darren and Carolyn Potter, first noticed in their son Ethan, a freshman at Bluffton High School who is in his first year with the Army JROTC program the school offers.
The Potters spoke about moving from New Jersey to Bluffton and their son chang-ing schools due to the move.
“He used to stay in all the time and now is more social,” said Darren.
“He’s definitely more grown up. He gets up on his own and goes to school on his own,” mentioned Carolyn,
whose military ties run deep with her father and uncle both serving in the Navy.
The Potters want there son to be an honest and respect-able person. “He’s on the right path, we’re very proud of him,” said the Potters, who attribute this to Ethan’s JROTc involvement.
Other cadets appreciated the lessons learned during their experience with the program.
“It’s one of the most de-manding programs around, a lot of community service is involved and we try to help out as much as we can,” said Spud Stroud, a senior and second lieutenant with Bluffton High School’s Army JROTC. “We learn a lot about finances, respect and core values that make us better citizens outside of the school.
“I’ve noticed a change [in myself ] because before I joined JROTC I was always mouthing off to my dad,” added Sprout, who wants to continue in ROTC once in college. “Through JROTC I learned a lot of discipline, I’m a lot nicer to people now than I was before so it’s helped my character.”
Grayson Ammons, a junior
and captain with Bluffton High School’s Army JRTOC felt that the program pre-sented a way to communi-cate and boost self-esteem.
“I moved here from Texas and there was a big change here. People acted different, people talked different and I was always in solitude,” said Ammons. “When I first got here I couldn’t find a program that would help me explore the attributes that I had. By joining JROTC and growing in the ranks I learned to be more confident in myself, learned public speaking, and did volunteer work.”
Both Stroud and Ammons agreed that the skills learned and confidence gained led to a desire to improve them-selves as much as possible af-ter high school and through-out life.
“You see them grow and chew on what you’re teach-ing and then put it into ac-tion, not only in the class-room but in the rest of the school, in public, at restau-rants, so you’re changing their lives,” said Wallace. “I want to see them become successful, believe in them-selves and be fruitful, pro-ductive citizens.”
JROTC cadets compete during the 2014 Superintendent’s Cup at Bluffton High School, in Bluffton, S.C., April 11. The event hosted five county high school JROTC units to compete in academia, a physical fitness test, an obstacle course, platoon drill, and color guard.
Cpl. Timothy Norris
Beaufort County JROTC provides youth direction
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 13In Other News
Lt. Col James Stone, Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 commanding officer, presents Sgt. Maj. Adrian Tagliere with the sword of office during a post and relief ceremo-ny aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, April 10. Tagliere relieved Sgt. Maj. Paul Davis, who served as the squadron sergeant major for nearly a year.
MWSS-273 welcomes new
Cpl. Timothy Norris
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 In Other News14
Cpl. Sarah CherryStaff Writer
Retired Staff Sgt. Waldrop, now 91 years old and living in St. Helena Island, S.C., vividly remembers details of his experi-ence during World War II.
“Have you ever seen airliners go across with their condensation trails? Can you picture half a thousand four-engine air-craft all leaving a condensation trail?” said retired Staff Sgt. Robert Waldrop, speak-ing of the aircraft of his former unit, the Eighth Air Force of the Army Air Corps. “It’s an awesome sight; one of the most awesome sights there was.”
Such a sight wasn’t rare in those early months of 1944. World War II was in full swing.
Eight different days in January and early February saw more than five hundred B-17s and B-24s taking off into European skies, with the most being 863 on January 29 leaving for Frankfurt, Germany.
A B-17 waist gunner from Fort Wayne, Indiana, he climbed into the plane for his fifth mission headed toward Frank-furt, Germany. He’d been in the Army Air Corps for two years.
At the time, the service members were expected to carry out 25 missions before being relieved, with the option to do more.
“When you returned from a mission – if you returned – you could have ice cream or a shot of whiskey,” said Waldrop. He said he would get ice cream with some
light teasing from his peers.He deliberately left his service pistol
behind. Getting shot down with a firearm was an immediate death sentence by German soldiers.
“The guys that’d been flying, they said don’t take that on a mission,” said Wal-drop. “You’d think you’d carry it on a mis-sion.”
“One of the biggest hazards of fly-ing those missions was the anti-aircraft [weapons] and, of course, the German pilots. They had some good, good pilots and good airplanes,” said Waldrop.
The plane is hit, Feb. 4, 1944. “I’ll never forget that date. My boots
came off when my chute opened. We couldn’t wear laced-up boots, because your feet would freeze up there,” he said. “[The Germans] probably had binoculars on me the whole way down. They had time to watch me and wait for me.”
He landed in German-occupied France, bootless with a sprained ankle. German soldiers quickly found him and detained him as a prisoner of war.
“When I first came down, I sprained my left leg real bad,” said Waldrop. “I didn’t break it, thank goodness. But they had to help me, or carry me, or push me.”
He was taken to a jail where he said German soldiers would stop by simply to stare at him.
“They’d come up to the strong door and look through the window,” he said. “[They must have been thinking] ‘He’s something else, we got a guy, we got an
American!’”During his experience as a prisoner of
war, he was transferred from camp to camp on coal ships and trucks, marched for hundreds of miles, and kept in various prison camps. Hygiene conditions were poor, and prisoners were counted daily.
“It was a normal routine to take a head count twice a day,” said Waldrop. A Ger-man sergeant, previously wounded on the Russian front, would take down the count with pencil and paper. He said they called him ‘Big Stoop’. “Guys in the back row would shift around, so he’d never get the same count twice.”
The German soldiers guarding the pris-oners would put a stop to the shuffling around and miscounting by fixing bayo-nets as a threat.
During the night, prisoners were locked in with a bar across the door. In the morn-ing, the prisoners would hear the bar be-ing removed.
“One morning, one of the guys a couple barracks down pushed on the door and it was open, so he thinks it’s okay to go out. We had one main latrine clear down at the end of the compound. He went clear across to the end of the compound and on the way back, one of the guards shot him,” said Waldrop. “He bled to death is really what happened because nobody could get to him.”
The Germans allowed a funeral detail, and despite the lack of an American flag the prisoners made do with what they had.
“Through the Red Cross we had some boxes of colored chalk and some of the guys took the colored chalk and put some rags together and made a flag as best as they could for his funeral,” he said. “It was sad.”
Towards the end of the war, the prison-ers were moved far and often, marching hundreds of miles.
“Some places we stopped close to villages, the civilians would put water out along the street,” said Waldrop. “We couldn’t stop, but as we walked past we would scoop some up in our tins.”
Waldrop fell behind with several other prisoners, and was taken to yet another prison camp.
They were liberated by British com-mandos that he said looked like they’d slit your throat if you blinked. The sort you wouldn’t want to see fighting against you.
“I was glad they were on our side,” he said.
He was given a physical and returned to the United States in a hospital ship. He arrived in New York, and later returned to his hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
After leaving military service, Waldrop served in and retired from the police force.
Waldrop’s experience and his attitude toward his past are a strong example of perseverance, inner strength and, per-haps most of all, carrying tragedies of the past lightly.
“I’ve been so fortunate over the years, really lucky,” he said.
WWII POW: Remembering the past
The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 15In Other News
Cpl. Sarah CherryStaff Writer
The low-lying swamps and mountainous jungles of Vietnam made providing aircraft maintenance for forward deployed aircraft and Marines a struggle in the 1950s and 1960s.
Without hangars and enclosed working spaces, some more sensitive or delicate re-pairs were time-consuming or impossible in the field.
Now, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 and other MALS rely on the mobile main-tenance facilities on the van pad to accom-plish their daily mission, deployed and in garrison.
“We don’t deploy to locations where there are hangars already built and office spaces where we can take all our equipment,” said Kelly. “It’s important for us to be able to be mobile.”
Mobile maintenance facilities are similar to small trailers, customized for specific jobs.
“They can be put on an airplane or put on a ship and taken wherever they needed to go,” said Capt. Brian Kelly, officer in charge of avionics for MALS-31. “[Without this capabil-ity] it would be impossible for us to deploy the way we deploy now.”
This ability allows MALS-31 to rapidly re-spond to crisis situations to provide nec-essary intermediate level aviation main-tenance. Intermediate level maintenance includes such capabilities as avionics, hy-draulics, and airframe maintenance.
Part of the method MALS use to deploy across the Marine Corps includes two mer-chant ships, SS Wright on the east coast and SS Curtiss on the west coast.
Each ship can deploy with over 300 opera-tional mobile maintenance facilities and is indefinitely sustainable. The same deploy-ment using C-17s would require 125 lifts.
Marines train biennially to maintain their knowledge on how to load and unload mo-bile maintenance facilities to and from the ships.
Mobility
Cpl. Sarah CherryStaff Writer
The circumstances in which Marines may be given permissive temporary as-signed duties prior to seperation from the Marine Corps were clarified in Marine Administrative Message 170/14, April 1.
The MARADMIN was published in re-sponse to an increase in questions re-garding the conditions in which PTAD may be granted to Marines separating from the Marine Corps due to the force
drawdown.PTAD is approved at the discretion of
the commander, and depends on unit ne-cessities.
Marines separating voluntarily or invol-untarily with an honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable con-ditions may be approved for PTAD. Ma-rines in the continental United States can receive up to 20 days PTAD, and others may be approved for up to 30 days PTAD.
Other circumstances in which Marines can be approved for PTAD include invol-
untary separation and retirement.To qualify, Marines must either be se-
lected for involuntary separation or re-lease from active duty due to non-selec-tion for promotion, have a mandatory or approved retirement date.
Other qualifiers for PTAD include being denied continued service, or having an approved separation for disability with or without severance pay or through force shaping programs.
Marines are not eligible if they are com-pleting their normal term of obligated
service or voluntarily resigning their com-mission.
Marines requesting early release out-side of the force shaping drawdown or under the end of the year holiday author-ity program are not eligible.
Involuntary discharge due to miscon-duct or substandard performance also disqualifies a Marine from receiving PTAD.
Reservists are not authorized for tran-sition PTAD unless they are in an active duty status and approved for an active duty retirement.
Clarification given on PTAD
Cpl. Carl Young, a test equipment calibrations technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, troubleshoots a circuit card assembly switching regulator inside a mobile maintenance facility, April 4. Each mobile maintenance facility is tailored to fit the needs of the work section that it houses.
Cpl. Justin Moore, a cable repairman with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, screws the cover onto a holding fixture after he replaced a radio frequency cable inside a mobile main-tenance facility, April 4. The mobile maintenance facilities help MALS across the Marine Corps deploy efficiently to provide aircraft maintenance in virtually any environment.
Lance Cpl. Stephen Trotta, a calibration and repair technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, calibrates a decade resistor, April 4. The decade resistor checks resistance levels against other gear.
Cpl. Brandon Kelsey, a micro-miniature repairman with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31, replaces wires in a left-handed grip assembly inside a mobile maintenance facility, April 4. Mobile maintenance facilities are set up for each specific work center and easily transported.
mattersfor
MALS-31
16 The Jet Stream Friday, April 18, 2014 Classifieds