Marine Corps News Room

By Gina Harkins - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Dec 31, 2012 11:26:18 EST

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Second lieutenants at The Basic School now spend a week immersed in an urban training center that prepares them for the types of environments in which they’ll be called to lead Marines.

To continue reading:

http://marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-new-urban-training-center-prepares-lieutenants-for-future-fight-123112w/

Posted by sr at 3:44 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. John Robbart III | 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.30.2012

USS PELELIU – Leaders at the helm of the Marine Corps spent their holiday with the Marines and sailors of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group, Dec. 28.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99808/commandant-marine-corps-visits-15th-meu-sea#.UOEc-6xoqdw

Posted by sr at 11:09 PM | Permalink

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Dec 29, 2012 10:30:32 EST

The Marine Corps has ended its use of female engagement teams in Afghanistan, saying their work is now performed by Afghan National Security Forces.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-ends-female-engagement-teams-afghanistan-122912

Posted by sr at 11:27 PM | Permalink

Marines scale back counterinsurgency, ramp up conventional warfare training

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
11:57 a.m., Dec. 29, 2012

The Marine Corps’ premiere combat training center is getting a new commanding general next month, just as the service introduces a pre-deployment exercise for the post-Afghanistan era.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/29/new-leader-new-mission-at-twentynine-palms/

Posted by sr at 11:06 AM | Permalink

Thieves struck while away in Afghanistan; vets offer help

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
7:35 p.m., Dec. 28, 2012

It had been a tough year to begin with. Then Gunnery Sgt. Jamie Hammond discovered that just about everything she owned except the desert camouflage on her back was stolen while she was in Afghanistan.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/28/marine-back-from-war-robbed-of-everything/

Posted by sr at 11:22 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Michael Lockett | 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.28.2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - It’s been a long and busy year for the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99777/2012-year-review-26th-meu#.UOEeqqxoqdw

Posted by sr at 11:12 PM | Permalink

By 1stLt David Baugh
DVIDS | Dec 28 2012

KADENA AIR FORCE BASE, Japan (December 2, 2012) – Between executing numerous beach assaults and lending a hand to a host of communities, the Marines and Sailors of 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment left their mark in the Asia-Pacific as the battalion landing team of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

To continue reading:

http://www.marines.com/news/-/news-story/detail/NEWS_28DEC2012_PROFESSIONALSDEPART31STMEU_DVIDS

Posted by JAA at 1:18 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Cory D. Polom
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
December 27, 2012

Frequent, tough, realistic training helps maintain the prowess demanded of America’s expeditionary force in readiness. Marine Transport Squadron 1’s search and rescue members train as often as two or three times a day to be ready in case they have to jump into action.

To continue reading:

http://www.cherrypoint.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/4890/Article/136158/search-and-rescue-marines-stay-ready-through-constant-training.aspx

Posted by JAA at 5:54 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 26, 2012

HENOKO, Okinawa, Japan --

“It never gets old,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew R. Minteer, corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. “I could visit 100 places like this and get the same satisfaction as I do today.”

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleView/tabid/7377/Article/136141/clb-31-gives-the-present-of-joy-to-children-without-families.aspx

Posted by JAA at 6:06 PM | Permalink

By David Jackson - USA Today
Posted : Wednesday Dec 26, 2012 16:00:03 EST

After spending most of Christmas Day with their family, President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama observed what has become one of their holiday traditions: Visiting troops and their families at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

To continue reading:

www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-obamas-visit-marine-corps-base-hawaii-christmas-122612/

Posted by JAA at 5:45 PM | Permalink

Christmas at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
12:01 a.m., Dec. 25, 2012
Updated 8:29 p.m. , Dec. 24, 2012

Quite a few Marines serving in Afghanistan would rather forget it’s Christmas. Not Sgt. Joseph Soileau, an air wing planner who deployed from Miramar Marine Corps Air Station. When carolers passed by his office at Camp Leatherneck recently, Soileau walked outside to enjoy the serenade.

To continue reading about the 3rd MAW:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/25/tp-marines-afghan-christmas/

Posted by sr at 4:12 PM | Permalink

Written by
Jeanette Steele
8:26 p.m., Dec. 24, 2012

On a bobbing ship more than 8,000 miles from home, a slice of Americana — pumpkin, apple or in this case, pecan — can make the difference on Christmas.

To continue reading about the 15th MEU:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/24/their-own-floating-family/

Posted by sr at 4:16 PM | Permalink

Peralta case an example of modern methods interfering with witness accounts, vets say

Written by
John Wilkens
12:01 a.m., Dec. 23, 2012

When it comes to the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest award for battlefield bravery, the standard has long been the same: Two eyewitnesses.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/23/changing-process-of-awarding-highest-medal/

Posted by sr at 9:08 PM | Permalink

By SUSANNE M. SCHAFER
The Associated Press
Published: December 23, 2012

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A war over, the Army heeds Congress' demands to cuts costs by paring its ranks. But the nation's economy is weak, and unemployment rates are high. It's an uncertain time for thousands of service members and their families.

To continue reading:

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2012/12/19/cuts-to-ranks-may-shock-but-its-happened-before.html

Posted by sr at 6:50 PM | Permalink

By PATRICK DONOHUE
[email protected]
843-706-8152
Published Sunday, December 23, 2012

Wreaths hang in the windows of a brick guard house that sits in the shadow of a large pine tree decorated with brightly colored lights.

To continue reading:

http://www.islandpacket.com/2012/12/23/2319829/christmas-for-recruits-at-parris.html

Posted by sr at 4:18 PM | Permalink

By Carmen Gentile - Special to USA TODAY
Posted : Saturday Dec 22, 2012 9:36:38 EST

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ARIAN, Ghazni Province, Afghanistan — First Sgt. Alan Robison is missing Christmas with his wife and children for the fourth time due to deployments.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/gn-hard-holiday-troops122212/

Posted by JAA at 5:58 PM | Permalink

Written by
Nathan Max
11:05 a.m., Dec. 21, 2012

VISTA — It only cost about $100 to replace more than a handful of medals that were stolen from a decorated World War II veteran.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/21/world-war-ii-veterans-medals-replaced/

Posted by sr at 6:35 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Bridget M. Keane | Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego | December 21, 2012

San Diego -- Working together to complete a common goal is a lesson learned throughout recruit training and the recruits of Company G, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, learned exactly that through log drills aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Dec. 18.

To continue reading:

http://www.mcrdsd.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/437/Article/136061/log-drills-build-unit-cohesion-leadership.aspx#.UNS0HkTt4Fw.facebook

Posted by sr at 5:16 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Paul Peterson | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | December 21, 2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- What was meant to be an overwhelming ambush quickly shifted into a rolling engagement on multiple fronts for the Marines of Charlie Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group.

To continue reading:

http://www.2ndmlg.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3874/Article/136075/8th-engineer-support-battalion-conducts-dismounted-patrols.aspx

Posted by JAA at 12:22 PM | Permalink

By 2nd Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs Office | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | December 20, 2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- A Marine with Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group saved the life of one of his own in the pre-dawn hours here, Dec. 11.

To continue reading:

http://www.2ndmlg.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3874/Article/136006/quick-decisive-action-saves-marines-life-at-camp-lejeune.aspx

Posted by sr at 8:17 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Kyle N. Runnels | 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.20.2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Marines and sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit checked off another box as their group sail, the third major training evolution of their pre-deployment training program, came to an end, Dec. 18, 2012.

To continue reading about the 26th MEU:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99593/three-steps-closer-deployment#.UNORM6xoqdw

Posted by sr at 4:31 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Kyle N. Runnels | 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.20.2012

USS SAN ANTONIO - Marines and sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit's maritime raid force conducted a maritime interdiction operation training exercise at sea aboard the USS San Antonio (LPD 17), Dec. 18, 2012.

To continue reading about the 26th MEU:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99591/maritime-raid-force-seizes-uss-san-antonio#.UNOQUKxoqdw

Posted by sr at 4:25 PM | Permalink

By Rowan Scarborough, The Washington Times
Thursday, December 20, 2012

The Marine Corps‘ new on-duty standard for drinking alcohol is so strict that less than one drink at lunch would trigger a “positive” and get a warrior in hot water.

To continue reading:

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/dec/20/marines-new-alcohol-policy-strictest-us-military/

Posted by JAA at 12:14 PM | Permalink

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Dec 19, 2012 18:09:14 EST

Three Marines with an MV-22B Osprey squadron will be honored next month for their heroics during a rescue mission last year in Libya in which they recovered a downed Air Force pilot.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-libya-trap-mission-air-force-awards-121912-w/

Posted by JAA at 5:57 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Paul E. Wyatt | Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
December 19, 2012

With the holiday season upon the Marines and Sailors of Cherry Point, one can practically smell Mom’s Christmas turkey roasting.

To continue reading:

http://www.cherrypoint.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/4890/Article/135933/have-yourself-a-merry-little-christmas-dinner.aspx

Posted by JAA at 2:16 PM | Permalink

By SSgt. Matt Lyman | Marine Corps Forces Europe
December 19, 2012

TRONDHEIM, Norway --

Marines and personnel from Marine Corps Forces, Europe, led a joint-service team to Norway to assemble, palletized and deliver equipment from Marine Corps Prepositioning Program - Norway to Marines training Georgian Armed Forces soldiers, December 10 – 14.

To continue reading:

http://www.marforeur.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/7617/Article/135925/mfe-leads-joint-service-team-to-norway-delivers-sustainment-gear-to-marines-in.aspx

Posted by JAA at 1:58 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. John Jackson | Headquarters Marine Corps
December 18, 2012

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan -- In an effort to ensure Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 Marines remember why they are deployed, the squadron has adopted one of New York Fire Department’s most decorated ladder companies that was heavily involved during the rescue attempts at the World Trade Center, Sept. 11, 2001.

To continue reading:

http://www.hqmc.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3488/Article/135861/tribute-to-new-york-fire-department-ladder-company-patrols-afghan-sky.aspx

Posted by JAA at 6:17 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Timothy Lenzo | Headquarters Marine Corps
December 18, 2012

COMBAT OUTPOST TAGHAZ, Afghanistan -- A Marine from a town most commonly associated with elves, Santa Claus, reindeer and snow has heard all the jokes since he joined the Marine Corps. He is from a town with candy cane themed street lights, a Santa Claus Lane and where thousands of childrens’ letters arrive for Santa. Now with the holiday season upon the Marines, the North Pole, Alaska, native is surrounded by sand and dirt, a long way from the snow and ice he is familiar with this time of year.

To continue reading:

http://www.hqmc.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3488/Article/135866/trading-snow-for-sand-north-pole-marine-deploys-to-afghanistan.aspx

Posted by JAA at 6:06 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 12.18.2012

COMBAT OUTPOST SHAMSHER, Afghanistan – Marines must remain well equipped to be ready for daily operations in Afghanistan.

To continue reading about the 2/7:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99463/logistical-hub-northern-helmand-keeps-marines-equipped#.UND_Oqxoqdw

Posted by sr at 5:43 PM | Permalink

By Gina Harkins - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Dec 18, 2012 16:17:32 EST

Marine Corps recruiting commercials will no longer air during Ultimate Fighting Championship events. The service has ended its three-year partnership with the organization following months of pressure from a labor union, women’s groups and members of Congress.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-corps-ends-sponsorship-of-ultimate-fighting-championship-121812/

Posted by JAA at 5:35 PM | Permalink

But troops at 1 in 5 locations will receive less

By Andrew Tilghman - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Dec 17, 2012 6:18:46 EST

The average Basic Allowance for Housing will rise 3.8 percent in 2013, giving troops living off base their largest average increase in four years, defense officials said.

To continue reading:
http://www.navytimes.com/news/2012/12/military-bah-rates-for-2013-121712w/

Posted by JAA at 5:09 PM | Permalink

Story by Capt. Robert Shuford | 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.16.2012

OFF THE COAST OF CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit has returned to the U.S. after completing nearly nine months deployed as an expeditionary crisis response force with the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99374/24th-marine-expeditionary-unit-returns-deployment#.UM6nwKxoqdw

Posted by sr at 11:05 PM | Permalink

By JEFF WALLACH
Published: December 15, 2012

KINSALE, Ireland — A driving downpour at Old Head Golf Links soaked through Tim Lang’s rain suit, blew in his face as he lined up daunting shots along cliffs above the gray Atlantic, and made it difficult to hold his ground on a prosthetic leg in the wet grass. Nobody should have been playing in such conditions, but on this October day, they made Lang feel more alive.

To continue reading:

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/16/sports/golf/golf-gives-wounded-veteran-the-feeling-that-im-whole-again.html?ref=usmarinecorps&_r=0

Posted by JAA at 11:09 PM | Permalink

Stars and Stripes
Published: December 15, 2012

ARLINGTON, Va. — What began as a goodwill gesture by a Maine businessman who found himself with a surplus of Christmas wreaths two decades ago continued its annual growth trend Saturday when 20,000 volunteers took part in the Wreaths Across America event at Arlington National Cemetery.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/us/wreaths-across-america-2012-at-arlington-national-cemetery-1.200872

Posted by sr at 9:37 AM | Permalink

By Annie Groer
The Washington Post
Published: December 15, 2012

A Delta Airlines official conceded Friday that “we failed” Marine Cpl. Christian Brown, the double amputee prevented by a flight crew from taking a first-class seat offered by strangers after he was clumsily wheeled down the length of the plane to the last row in coach.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/delta-airlines-we-failed-double-amputee-marine-on-recent-flight-1.200810

Posted by sr at 6:47 AM | Permalink

By Cpl. Michael Petersheim | | December 14, 2012

ATLANTIC OCEAN -- The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit will return home next week, nine months after departing the Carolina Coast near Camp Lejeune, N.C., last March. Surely, smiles and long-anticipated embraces from friends and family members await them, but the MEU’s Marines and Sailors remain focused — they understand the mission isn’t over.

To continue reading:

http://www.marines.mil/News/NewsDisplay/tabid/3258/Article/135670/marines-sailors-of-24th-meu-prepare-for-next-phase-post-deployment.aspx

Posted by sr at 10:12 AM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 12.14.2012

CAMERON, N.C. – The cheers of the gathered crowds overpowered the roaring of the motorcycles that escorted Lance Cpl. Richie Chavis as he arrived at his new home. Marines with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, Chavis’ former unit, joined vendors, friends and family in applause as he arrived to receive the keys.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99302/operation-coming-home-provides-wounded-marine-veteran-with-new-home#.UMydeKxoqdw

Posted by sr at 9:49 AM | Permalink

By Annie Groe
The Washington Post
Published: December 14, 2012

On Dec. 13, 2011, Marine Lance Cpl. Christian Brown was leading his squad on a foot patrol in Afghanistan’s Helmand province when he stepped on an explosive device that blew off both his legs, one above the knee, the other below his hip. He also lost part of his right index finger.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/marine-double-amputee-s-treatment-on-delta-flight-angers-other-vets-1.200674

Posted by sr at 8:07 AM | Permalink

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Thursday Dec 13, 2012 11:56:36 EST

As violent protests erupted across the Middle East and North Africa this fall, the 4,000 Marines and sailors comprising the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group were on alert, ready to go in. In fact, they remained on that status for 150 days, the majority of their deployment in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-24th-meu-embassy-missions-121312w

Posted by JAA at 10:36 PM | Permalink

By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: December 13, 2012

SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan — Apparently a few Marines can move a mountain — of supplies, that is.

To continue reading about the III MEF:

http://www.stripes.com/news/marine-corps/okinawa-marines-helping-with-philippines-disaster-relief-1.200535

Posted by sr at 4:55 PM | Permalink

American jailed for months on gun charges

By Gary Tuchman and Ben Brumfield CNN
POSTED: 3:55 AM Dec 13 2012 UPDATED: 12:41 PM Dec 13 2012

MIAMI (CNN) -

For a war vet from South Florida, a leisurely road trip to a seaside vacation came to an abrupt end in Mexico, where he has languished behind bars for four months, sometimes chained to a bed.

To continue reading:

http://www.wcyb.com/news/Gun-puts-former-Marine-behind-bars-in-Mexico/-/14590844/17759736/-/j9h4vgz/-/index.html

Posted by sr at 4:05 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Scott L. Tomaszycki | | December 13, 2012

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. (Dec. 9, 2012) -- A detachment of 122 Marines from Marine Attack Squadron 542 returned to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Sunday from a deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which patrols the Asia-Pacific region.

To continue reading:

http://www.marines.mil/News/NewsDisplay/tabid/3258/Article/135596/vma-542-returns-from-asia-pacific-deployment.aspx

Posted by sr at 4:03 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Michael Lockett | 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 12.12.2012

USS BATAAN, At Sea – Embarked aboard the USS Bataan, the USS San Antonio, and the USS Carter Hall, the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to the waves once more Dec. 11, 2012.

To continue reading about the 26th MEU:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99164/sandy-marines-return-sea#.UMpa3qwkadx

Posted by sr at 4:36 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Mark Garcia
December 12, 2012

MUSA QAL’AH DISTRICT CENTER, Afghanistan -- For Cpl. Aaron Clote, the challenge involved with becoming a Marine and the chance to experience the world was something he couldn’t miss out on.

To continue reading:

http://www.marines.mil/News/NewsDisplay/tabid/3258/Article/135531/first-deployment-to-afghanistan-snipers-dream-finally-fulfilled.aspx

Posted by JAA at 11:23 AM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. Scott Whiting | Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune | Date: 12.11.2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - The Budweiser Clydesdale horses recognizable from the brewing company’s Super Bowl commercials and other promotions visited Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Dec. 8 as part of an East Coast military installations tour.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99088/budweiser-clydesdales-make-splash-camp-lejeune#.UMe-Mqwkadw

Posted by sr at 5:14 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. Joseph Scanlan | 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.11.2012

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – As the sun descended behind the mountain ridgeline at Camp Horno, excitement began to build as family members and friends anxiously awaited for their loved ones to return from deployment, Dec. 8.

To continue reading about the 2/1:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/99109/marine-battalion-comes-home-warm-welcome#.UMe9Hawkadw

Posted by sr at 5:09 PM | Permalink

By Cpl Matheus Hernandez
DIVIDS | Dec 11 2012

Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (November 29, 2012) – What lies within a man can be different from what lies within a warrior. A warrior contains a code of conduct within himself—a code that embodies a life where integrity, loyalty, honor, selflessness and courage are one's guide. Many people believe they can follow this code, but others know the warrior ethos is the only way of life for them.

To continue reading:

http://www.marines.com/news/-/news-story/detail/NEWS_11DEC2012_WARRIORETHOSDRIVESRECRUIT_DVIDS

Posted by JAA at 11:17 AM | Permalink

By Torsten Ove / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
December 11, 2012 12:09 am

A Marine who did what Marines are trained to do was presented with a medal for bravery Monday for his actions in Afghanistan.

To continue reading:

http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/region/marine-sgt-david-gerardi-gets-silver-star-at-ceremony-665818/

Posted by sr at 10:42 AM | Permalink

Terrorists now rule northern Mali

By PETER BROOKES
Posted: 10:46 PM, December 11, 2012

When most Americans think of al Qaeda, they don’t think of Africa. But they should, especially considering a country called Mali, where Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and its allies are attempting to build an Islamist state.

To continue reading:

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/opinion/opedcolumnists/al_qaeda_new_base_JJQL0U5Q7FWRIqlgkYK2BK

Posted by sr at 10:03 AM | Permalink

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Dec 10, 2012 15:31:40 EST

More than 4,000 Marines and sailors extended on deployment in the Mediterranean Sea last month due to unrest in the Middle East are on their way home — again, an official confirmed Monday.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/marine-24th-marine-expeditionary-unit-121012w/

Posted by JAA at 6:51 PM | Permalink

By ALEXANDRA DUKAKIS
Dec 10, 2012 10:20pm

WASHINGTON — Navy SEALs are trained to carry out missions of great peril with lethal precision and discipline. They are asked to cross enemy lines to save Americans and kill adversaries. However, there is no training course, no simulated direct-action exercise, that can prepare SEALs for the emotional punch of losing one of their own in the line of duty. That’s what makes Saturday night’s rescue mission in Afghanistan particularly tragic.

To continue reading about Fallen Hero, Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Checque:

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/12/seal-team-6-member-killed-in-raid-that-freed-american-doctor/

Posted by sr at 10:51 AM | Permalink

Ops at sea and Asia deployments increasing in post-Afghan era

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
4:09 p.m., Dec. 10, 2012

CAMP PENDLETON — Waves of amphibious assault vehicles crashed onto the beach Monday at Camp Pendleton, launching the 1st Marine Division back to the Corps’ seafaring roots and ahead to its peacetime future.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/dec/10/marines-and-sailors-storm-beach-steel-knight/?page=1#article

Posted by sr at 10:35 AM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 09, 2012

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- After offloading hundreds of pieces of communications equipment from a recent deployment at sea, the Marines must ensure their operational capabilities are maintained.
Marines from the communications detachment of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, maintain their operational readiness through constant analysis and maintenance of the unit’s communications equipment.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleView/tabid/7377/Article/135385/maintaining-communications-for-the-31st-meu.aspx

Posted by JAA at 7:34 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 08, 2012

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- Snipers have been the focus of envy and the personification of legends in the Marine Corps since men like Carlos Hathcock and Chuck Mawhinney looked down their scopes in the jungles of Vietnam. The recent exploits of Chris Kyle, the retired Navy SEAL who now has the most confirmed sniper kills in U.S. military history, modernized the mystique of the military sniper, but few have had what it takes to join the ranks.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleView/tabid/7377/Article/135379/through-the-scope-one-snipers-experiences-journey-to-the-top.aspx

Posted by JAA at 2:39 PM | Permalink

The Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, General James F. Amos, gives his thoughts in a wide ranging interview.

By: Sergei DeSilva-Ranasinghe
December 07, 2012

As the process of rebalancing its forces to the Asia-Pacific begins to gain further traction, the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) sees itself returning to a familiar region of the world. In this context, the Commandant of the USMC, General James F. Amos, spoke to Sergei DeSilva-Ranasinghe about the Corps’ transformation and modernization, the impact of successive deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, the status of Marine Corps activities in Africa and South America, the strategic realignment to the Asia-Pacific, the likely future battlefield, and defense budget cuts.

To continue reading:

http://thediplomat.com/2012/12/07/our-institutional-dna-the-u-s-marine-corps-surges-to-the-asia-pacific/4/?all=true

Posted by JAA at 10:56 AM | Permalink

By Audrey McAvoy - The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Dec 7, 2012 7:22:00 EST

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii — More than 2,000 people are gathering at Pearl Harbor on Friday to mark the 71st anniversary of the Japanese attack that killed thousands of people and launched the United States into World War II.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2012/12/ap-pearl-harbor-dead-remembered-71st-anniversary-120712/

Posted by JAA at 10:49 AM | Permalink

by: Travis J. Tritten
Stars and Stripes
published: December 6, 2012

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Eight months after reaching a breakthrough agreement to trim Marine forces on Okinawa and ease a core cause of anti-military friction, the U.S. has made scant progress on the drawdown and is once again trying to quell outrage over off-base, alcohol-related crimes that have escalated Japanese tension to its highest point in years.

To continue reading:

http://kanto.stripes.com/news/realignment-marines-stalls-okinawans%E2%80%99-outrage-grows

Posted by sr at 9:54 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Walter D. Marino II
Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego
December 06, 2012

San Diego -- While much of what’s found on television is loosely based on fact, some ads display absolute truth. Marine Corps ads, for example, try to give a real picture of the Corps and the obstacles that must be overcome during recruit training.

To continue reading:

http://www.mcrdsd.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/437/Article/135263/recruits-tackle-new-challenges-build-self-confidence.aspx

Posted by JAA at 5:58 PM | Permalink

Written by Bob Vosseller
8:32 AM, Dec 5, 2012

John and Marge Budenas held small American flags Tuesday as they sat on a curb adjacent to the Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home in Toms River.

To continue reading:

http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20121205/NJNEWS10/312050014/On-his-last-journey-home-New-Jersey-Marine-accompanied-by-special-police-veterans-escort

Posted by JAA at 5:26 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. T. Allen Bricker
Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow
December 05, 2012

Returning from a deployment into the supportive, warm and open arms of a loved one can be the best feeling a Marine ever experiences. On the contrary, having no one welcome you back or showing you appreciation for a job well done could cause the opposite feeling, and no one deserves that.

To continue reading:

http://www.mclbbarstow.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/9411/Article/135166/base-hosts-welcome-home-heroes-for-marines-returning-from-overseas.aspx

Posted by JAA at 5:04 PM | Permalink

By David Alexander
Tue Dec 4, 2012 1:55pm EST

(Reuters) - Marine Corps General Joseph Dunford, who takes over as head of international forces in Afghanistan next year, faces the challenge of winding down a war in a country where he has little experience using a strategy he did not devise.

To continue reading:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/04/us-usa-afghanistan-dunford-idUSBRE8B311720121204

Posted by JAA at 6:52 PM | Permalink

MARINE CORPS SUPPORT FACILITY NEW ORLEANS

By Cpl. Nana Dannsa-Appiah, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve
December 04, 2012

Col. Gregg T. Habel assumed his new position as executive director of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North, Dec. 3, during a ceremony at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans.

To continue reading:

http://www.marforres.marines.mil/MFRNews/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/7930/Article/135107/habel-becomes-number-2-man-of-largest-command-in-the-marine-corps.aspx

Posted by JAA at 6:39 PM | Permalink

Published: Monday, December 03, 2012
By DANIELLE SANZONE
[email protected]
Twitter.com/DanielleSanzone

MECHANICVILLE — The last time Mary Morgan heard from her son, Lance Cpl. Anthony Denier, was just a few hours before he was shot by enemy fire in Afghanistan while serving his country with the U.S. Marines.

To continue reading about Fallen Hero, Lance Cpl. Anthony J. Denier, of the 3/9:

http://www.cnweekly.com/articles/2012/12/03/news/doc50bd2d210d844182791858.txt

Posted by sr at 4:17 PM | Permalink

15th Marine Expeditionary Unit

Story by Cpl. Timothy Childers
Published 12.03.2012 05:52

KUWAIT – Marines shielded their eyes the best they could as a sand storm moved across the firing-range. Wind-speeds reached more than 30 miles-per-hour, which made a dead-center shot at more than 500 yards seem impossible. What may have seemed unfeasible was made achievable by the scout snipers of Battalion Landing Team 3/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. They flawlessly brought down targets at a firing-range near Camp Buehring during Exercise Eager Mace 13, Nov. 10.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/98637/us-marines-kuwait-armed-forces-snipers-train-along-side-one-another#.ULz5uoVcfUQ

Posted by JAA at 12:55 PM | Permalink

Single Marines have the greatest opportunity to save money, and yet fail at it the most

By Trace Evans
December 03, 2012

Money management seems to be the hardest thing to accomplish while in the Marine Corps (or military in general), and is especially difficult for single junior Marines. Later on in your career you will look back and ask yourself where it all went.

To continue reading:

http://www.military1.com/all/article/270186-money-management-for-single-marines

Posted by JAA at 11:33 AM | Permalink

By Staci Sturrock

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Posted: 12:00 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012

Meet Staff Sgt. Bryan Kauffman, unlikely Santa Claus.

Beardless and buff, the Marine with the shaved head and serious demeanor keeps what he calls “all the moving parts” of Palm Beach County’s busiest gift-giving machine in motion.

To continue reading:

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/lifestyles/the-few-the-proud-the-very-busy-marines-behind-toy/nTJhf/

Posted by JAA at 10:38 AM | Permalink

By JULIE WATSON
The Associated Press
Published: December 1, 2012

SAN DIEGO -- Marine 1st Lt. Brandy Soublet is about as far from the war front as possible at her desk in the California desert, but she's on the front lines of an experiment that could one day put women as close to combat as their male peers.

To continue reading:

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/12/01/marine-pioneering-effort-to-move-women-into-combat/

Posted by JAA at 8:26 PM | Permalink