Marine Corps News Room

By Tom Charlier
Published: May 31, 2014

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — That very first kill haunted him most. There were many others, to be sure, but long after he’d returned to Memphis from three deployments with the Marines, Paul Oliver voiced the greatest pain while recounting his lethal encounter with an Iraqi insurgent who ignored a command to disarm and raised his rifle.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/marine-corps/marine-s-final-battle-years-of-fighting-ptsd-brain-injury-end-in-postwar-casualty-1.286343

Posted by KC at 6:01 PM | Permalink

Photos by Lance Cpl. Vaniah Temple | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 04.29.2014
Date Posted: 05.30.2014 10:38

The Confidence Course is comprised of 15 obstacles designed to help Marine Corps recruits build self-confidence by overcoming physical and mental challenges. Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, is scheduled to graduate July 3, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 7 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1371923/marine-recruits-face-obstacles-parris-islands-confidence-course#.U4pGTyg_xPY

Posted by sr at 4:18 PM | Permalink

By Jolene Cleaver, [email protected],, @DispatchCleaver on Twitter
Posted: 05/30/14, 8:50 AM EDT

ONEIDA>>City resident Vicky Arnold is asking for the public’s help in finding a U.S. Marine Corps medal that is missing from son’s headstone in Oneida Castle cemetery.

To continue reading:

http://www.saratogian.com/general-news/20140530/fallen-marines-mom-seeks-help-recovering-medallion-stolen-from-sons-headstone

Posted by sr at 4:08 PM | Permalink

Posted 5/29/2014 Updated 5/30/2014
by Airman Zade C. Vadnais
18th Wing Public Affairs

5/29/2014 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- On June 1, Kadena will enter Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness Four, the default condition of readiness during typhoon season, which begins June 1 and lasts until November 30.

To continue reading:

http://www.kadena.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123412552

Posted by KC at 9:47 AM | Permalink

by Cpl Charles Santamaria
Date Posted:05.30.2014 10:20PM

3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 7th Marine Regiment hosts their deactivation ceremony at Lance Corporal Torrey L. Gray Field. (Footage by Lance Cpl. Hannah Carlson)(Footage by Lance Cpl. Dakim Rucker)(Footage by Cpl. Charles Santamaria).

To continue to view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/340320/3rd-battalion-4th-marines-7th-marine-regiment-deactivation-ceremony#.U7_lA2K9KSN

Posted by KC at 8:24 AM | Permalink

By Cpl. Joseph Scanlan | Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan | May 29, 2014

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- As Marines departed Sangin District, one of Afghanistan’s most dangerous areas, they were supported by British soldiers with Maneuver Battle Group who provided security to ensure a safe convoy to Camp Leatherneck.

To continue reading:

http://www.imef.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3963/Article/165029/17-marines-support-british-forces-during-turnover-of-sterga-ii.aspx

Posted by KC at 10:01 AM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Michael Dye | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 05.28.2014

PATROL BASE BOLDAK, Afghanistan – Marines and sailors with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, completed the turnover with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, and took control over Patrol Base Boldak and its area of operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 20, 2014.

To continue reading about the 1/2:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/131246/marines-1st-battalion-2nd-marines-take-control-fight-southern-helmand-province#.U4al8Sg_xPZ

Posted by sr at 10:19 PM | Permalink

By Lolita C. Baldor
May. 28, 2014 - 12:07PM

WASHINGTON — The State Department recommended Tuesday that Americans leave Libya immediately and warned U.S. citizens against any travel to the North African country.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20140528/NEWS08/305280049/U-S-citizens-urged-leave-Libya-Bataan-moves-into-Mediterranean

Posted by KC at 7:53 PM | Permalink

By The Associated Press
Posted: Wednesday, May 28th 2014 at 7:30pm

WASHINGTON (AP) — Cpl. Kyle Carpenter remembers lying on his back on a rooftop in Marjah, Afghanistan, crammed up against sandbags alongside his friend and fellow Marine, Lance Cpl. Nicholas Eufrazio.

To continue reading:

http://www.accessnorthga.com/detail.php?n=275484

Posted by sr at 7:38 PM | Permalink

Video by Cpl James Gulliver
Date Posted:05.28.2014 1:59AM

KANGAROO FLATS TRAINING AREA, Northern Territory, Australia – Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, and Soldiers with the Australian Army, participate in the fire team leaders course here.

To continue to view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/339707/mrf-d-conducts-fire-team-leaders-course#.U5Rv_Nq9KSO

Posted by KC at 3:14 PM | Permalink

Published May 27, 2014
FoxNews.com

President Obama announced Tuesday that he aims to keep 9,800 U.S. troops in Afghanistan after the war formally ends later this year, while pledging a near-total withdrawal by the end of 2016.

To continue reading:

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2014/05/27/obama-plans-to-keep-800-us-troops-in-afghanistan-after-2014-official-says/

Posted by sr at 5:18 PM | Permalink

BY newsdesk May 26, 2014 at 10:33 AM EDT

President Obama, back in Washington after his surprise trip to visit troops in Afghanistan, appeared at Arlington National Cemetery this morning to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

To continue reading and view news video:

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/watch-live-president-obama-lays-wreath-tomb-unknown-soldier/

Posted by sr at 10:32 PM | Permalink

by Sgt Frances Johnson
Date Posted:05.26.2014 2:12PM

Regional Command (Southwest) hold Memorial Day ceremony May 26, 2014, aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

To continue to view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/339483/service-members-aboard-camp-leatherneck-remember-fallen#.U4P5pNq9KSN

Posted by KC at 9:41 PM | Permalink

He feels proud to return to the fight

By Meghann Myers
Staff writer
May. 26, 2014 - 03:37PM

It’s not often you see a midshipman hustling down Stribling Walk to get to class with a Combat Action Ribbon and a Purple Heart pinned to his dress uniform, but that was the last four years for Marine 2nd Lt. Jefferson Talicuran.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20140526/NEWS/305260020/Battle-scarred-corpsman-becomes-Marine-officer

Posted by sr at 5:10 PM | Permalink

By JAKE PEARSON, Associated Press
Updated 11:00 am, Sunday, May 25, 2014

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. Marine Corps' chaplain, speaking Sunday to a congregation that has tied gold ribbons on the church's fence in honor of fallen soldiers since the Iraq War began, lauded the sacrifice of veterans around the world as President Barack Obama made a surprise visit to Afghanistan for Memorial Day.

To continue reading:

http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/USMC-chaplain-at-NYC-church-for-Memorial-Day-5503591.php

Posted by sr at 1:45 PM | Permalink

Jenn Rowell, [email protected]
8:48 a.m. MDT May 25, 2014

Over a decade on active duty in the Marine Corps, Seth Jordan squirreled away money and recently made a longtime dream come true when he opened Dog Tag Brewing in Belgrade.

To continue reading:

http://www.greatfallstribune.com/story/money/2014/05/25/marine-settles-in-montana-creates-beer-company-to-honor-troops/9397211/

Posted by sr at 1:40 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl Krista James | 2nd Marine Division | May 22, 2014

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. --
Marines, sailors and distinguished guests with 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, gathered together at the battalion headquarters aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for a memorial service, May 21, 2014.

To continue reading:

http://www.2ndmardiv.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/2643/Article/164651/2nd-lar-marines-sailors-remember-fallen-comrades.aspx

Posted by KC at 6:59 PM | Permalink

Stars and Stripes
Published: May 24, 2014

WASHINGTON — The Defense Department announced Saturday it had canceled ongoing military exercises with Thailand as a result of the military coup in the Southeast Asian country.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/pacific/us-cancels-military-exercises-with-thailand-1.285224

Posted by sr at 4:32 PM | Permalink

By Jennifer Hlad
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 24, 2014

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Veterans who served in 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company in Vietnam and Korea stood shoulder to shoulder Friday evening to shake the hands of 20 Marines deploying to Afghanistan this Memorial Day weekend.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans-from-vietnam-korea-see-off-marines-deploying-to-afghanistan-1.285082

Posted by sr at 4:27 PM | Permalink

By Tom Wrobleski
May 23, 2014 at 4:00 PM, updated May 24, 2014 at 2:18 PM

ELTINGVILLE – James Capodanno, a World War II Marine Corps veteran who kept alive the memory of his hero brother, the Rev. Vincent R. Capodanno, has died at the age of 94, his family said.

To continue reading:

http://www.silive.com/obituaries/index.ssf/2014/05/james_capodanno_who_kept_alive.html

Posted by KC at 9:03 AM | Permalink

Q & A with Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo, southwest NATO commander

By Gretel C. Kovach
4 a.m.May 22, 2014

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Marine Brig. Gen. Daniel Yoo is slated to be the last coalition commander in southwestern Afghanistan, an impoverished Taliban stronghold checkered with illicit poppy plots. The former head of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego took charge of Helmand and Nimruz provinces in February, at the helm of Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan and NATO’s regional command.

To continue reading:

http://m.utsandiego.com/news/2014/may/22/yoo-southwest-afghanistan-marine/?st

Posted by sr at 1:25 PM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Adam Miller
Date Taken:05.16.2014 | Date Posted:05.21.2014 02:44

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan – Marines concluded a two-week Special Reaction Team certification course May16 in the Central Training Area.

To continue reading:

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/130594/marines-get-one-shot-elite-sniper-status#.VUmN1mK9KSP

Posted by KC at 10:47 PM | Permalink

Published May 21, 2014
Associated Press

NEW YORK – Well, hello, sailor!

To continue reading:

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2014/05/21/fleet-week-returns-to-nyc-after-one-year-absence/?intcmp=latestnews

Posted by sr at 10:26 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Kirstin Rodgers | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | May 20, 2014

NAVAL AIR STATION JOINT RESERVE BASE FORT WORTH, Texas --

A Marine was awarded the nation’s second highest award Sunday for a life-threatening act of heroism, in a ceremony here.

To continue reading:

http://www.marforres.marines.mil/MarineReserveNewsPhotos/MarineReserveNews/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/7930/Article/164502/marine-corps-awards-medal-for-heroism-to-local-reserve-marine.aspx

Posted by sr at 10:39 PM | Permalink

Stars and Stripes
Published: May 20, 2014

A Marine crisis-response team has deployed additional aircraft to Sicily as it awaits orders for a possible evacuation of American officials in Libya.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/aircraft-sent-to-italy-for-possible-libya-evacuation-1.284092

Posted by KC at 9:14 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Alissa P. Schuning | Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni | May 20, 2014

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- With the summer months fast approaching, residents of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, will want to begin preparing for typhoon season beginning on June 1 until November 30.

To continue reading:

http://www.mcasiwakuni.marines.mil/News/NewsStories/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/6911/Article/164452/brace-yourselves-typhoon-season-is-coming.aspx

Posted by KC at 9:40 AM | Permalink

Photo by Cpl. David Bessey | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 05.13.2014
Date Posted: 05.20.2014 09:12

Marines learn to rappel to prepare for deploying from helicopters in flight or navigating difficult terrain, and the training also helps instill courage in recruits to overcome any fear of heights. Fox Company is scheduled to graduate July 3, 2014. Approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 10 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1354028/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-learn-rappel-parris-island#.U3yvJyg_xPY

Posted by sr at 8:53 AM | Permalink

By James K. Sanborn | Staff writer
May. 19, 2014 - 05:24PM

Retired Marine Cpl. Kyle Carpenter, 24, will receive the Medal of Honor for heroism in Afghanistan in 2010, the White House announced today. He will become only the second living Marine to receive the award for actions during the Global War on Terrorism.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20140519/NEWS/305190040/It-s-official-Medal-Honor-Marine-Kyle-Carpenter

Posted by KC at 10:23 PM | Permalink

Courtesy Video | Pentagon Channel | Date: 05.19.2014

Operations are returning to normal at Camp Pendleton, CA, after wildfires last week

To view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/337822/evacuation-orders-lifted-camp-pendleton?source=GovDelivery#.U3ohwig_w_x

Posted by sr at 10:27 AM | Permalink

Date Taken: 05.13.2014
Date Posted: 05.19.2014 4:07PM
Location:PARRIS ISLAND, SC, US

Recruits of Fox Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, endure the effects of tear gas after exiting a gas chamber May 13, on Parris Island, S.C.

To view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/337952/fox-company-gas-chamber?sub_id=25171&utm;_campaign=subscriptions&utm;_medium=email&utm;_source=25171&utm;_content=asset_link#.U3tbeCg_xPb

Posted by sr at 8:46 AM | Permalink

Story by Cpl Unique B. Roberts
Date Posted:05.15.2014 12:34

BOGUE, N.C. - Members of Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 conducted their annual Communication Exercise, May 5 – 9 at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C.

To continue reading:

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/129922/mwss-271-hones-communication-abilities#.VPkH52K9KSM

Posted by KC at 8:07 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Timothy Lenzo | 3rd Battalion, 11th Marines | May 15, 2014

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- He stands noticeably smaller than the Marines to his right and left. Their frames fill out their camouflage utilities and flak jackets, while his looks a couple sizes too small.

To continue reading:

http://www.1stmardiv.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/8585/Article/164257/make-a-wish-marines-team-up-to-grant-san-diego-natives-wish.aspx

Posted by KC at 5:31 PM | Permalink

By John Vandiver
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 14, 2014

STUTTGART, Germany — A team of crisis response Marines has moved from Spain to a U.S. base in southern Italy in response to new security concerns in northern Africa, according to U.S. European Command.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/us-crisis-response-marines-mobilized-for-north-africa-threat-1.282966

Posted by KC at 11:05 PM | Permalink

By Hendrick Simoes
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 14, 2014

DJIBOUTI — The world may never see another amphibious landing like the ones that characterized the U.S. war effort in World War II.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/a-world-away-from-normandy-troops-practice-modern-day-beach-landing-1.282684

Posted by KC at 10:42 PM | Permalink

11:43 AM, May 14, 2014
Updated 2:50 PM

ARLSBAD - Multiple brush fires throughout San Diego County Wednesday have forced evacuations:
Camp Pendleton (Tomahawk Fire):
- Naval Weapons Station Fallbrook personnel
- Camp Pendleton personnel in the 14-Area have been ordered to evacuate to 33-Area parade deck.
- De Luz housing residents
- De Luz Child Development Center
- Mary Fay Pendleton Elementary School
- O'Neill Heights Housing

To continue reading:

http://www.10news.com/news/carlsbad-camp-pendleton-fires-prompt-evacuations

Posted by sr at 4:58 PM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 05.12.2014
Date Posted: 05.14.2014 09:27

Each exercise simulates a water survival technique recruits may need if they become Marines. Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, is scheduled to graduate July 11, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 8 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1339003/photo-gallery-parris-island-recruits-dive-into-marine-corps-amphibious-nature#.U3Ui0Sg_w_w

Posted by sr at 3:27 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Jonathan G. Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | May 14, 2014

KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa, Japan – Each Marine Corps unit is defined by its people or its accomplishments - from famous Marines within the ranks to historic events that turned the tide of battle, the legacy of years past is carried with pride to this day. For two units in particular, those defining years were during the Korean War and the battle of Okinawa.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/164242/continuing-legacies-cross-paths-as-31st-meu-rotates-infantry-battalions.aspx

Posted by KC at 11:51 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. David Bessey | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 05.08.2014
Date Posted: 05.13.2014 16:59

All recruits who graduate training have received more than two weeks of marksmanship training, making them qualified Marine riflemen. Bravo Company is scheduled to graduate June 20, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 7 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1336691/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-learn-fundamentals-rifle-marksmanship-parris-island#.U3Q8fSg_w_w

Posted by sr at 11:05 PM | Permalink

Photo by Lance Cpl. Vaniah Temple | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 05.01.2014
Date Posted: 05.13.2014 15:45

Recruits spend two weeks honing their shooting skills before qualifying. Rifle qualification is one of eight graduation requirements recruits must fulfill to become Marines. Oscar Company is scheduled to graduate June 6, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 7 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1336561/marine-recruits-develop-vital-marksmanship-skills-parris-island#.U3Q5-Cg_w_w

Posted by sr at 10:49 PM | Permalink

May 13, 2014 6:21 PM
Written by | Staff Report

BRIDGEWATER — Students from Susan Roxbury’s first-grade class at Hamilton School have learned a bit more about current events and the efforts of Marines serving in Afghanistan.

To continue reading:

http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20140514/NJNEWS10/305140016/First-grade-class-at-Hamilton-School-in-Bridgewater-befriends-Marine-in-Afghanistan

Posted by sr at 5:05 PM | Permalink

Published May 13, 2014
FoxNews.com

A key lawmaker on Monday called on the United States to suspend military aid to Mexico in light of the jailing of a Marine Corps sergeant who mistakenly entered the country with firearms.

To continue reading:

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2014/05/13/rep-duncan-hunter-calls-on-us-to-suspend-military-aid-in-light-marine/

Posted by sr at 4:26 PM | Permalink

May 12
By RICK MONTGOMERY
The Kansas City Star

Army Sgt. 1st Class Terrence Hoard must reach potential recruits early to set them straight.

To continue reading:

http://newsinkansas.com/military-gets-picky-in-recruiting-only-20-of-applicants-qualify-21/

Posted by sr at 11:03 PM | Permalink

By Chris Carroll
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 12, 2014

WASHINGTON — Troops who deploy by the end of this month to nine Middle Eastern countries recently removed from the imminent danger pay location list will still qualify for R & R, according to a recent Pentagon decision.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/pentagon-reauthorizes-r-r-for-9-countries-1.282672

Posted by KC at 12:39 PM | Permalink

By Hendrick Simoes
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 12, 2014

As the U.S. military concludes its mission in Afghanistan and the Marine Corps is in the midst of reducing its current active-duty strength, many Marines are wondering what their postwar role will be.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/marines-stretch-sea-legs-as-afghanistan-winds-down-1.282297

Posted by KC at 12:02 PM | Permalink

May 12th, 2014 | Afghanistan Embedded journalism Food | Posted by Hope Hodge Seck

As I prepared for my first embed with in Afghanistan, I figured I might spend some time sleeping under the stars and taking “health and comfort breaks” in the woods as the Marines shut down several of their remaining forward operating bases. I’ve done a bit of tent camping, and I figured I couldn’t be disappointed if I managed my expectations.

To continue reading:

http://blogs.militarytimes.com/battle-rattle/2014/05/12/on-the-ground-in-afghanistan-the-last-days-of-a-fob/

Posted by sr at 11:49 AM | Permalink

by Sgt Jonathan Wright
Date Posted:05.12.2014 6:57AM

Marines on Okinawa participated in the Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival course on Camp Hansen starting May 5. The weeklong period allows the Marines to hold swim qualifications for their respective units per annual training requirements...

To continue to read more and view video:

http://www.dvidshub.net/video/336434/31st-meu-marines-learn-teach-during-mciws-instructor-course#.U3C-H9q9KSO

Posted by KC at 7:29 AM | Permalink

Posted: Sunday, May 11, 2014 10:00 pm
By Victoria Brito THE BROWNSVILLE HERALD

Gripping both sides of civilian and military life, that is what John Rothschild said his daughter Sarah Rothschild depicts in her award-winning painting, “What Happens There Doesn’t Stay There.”

To continue reading:

http://www.brownsvilleherald.com/news/local/article_59301aba-d97e-11e3-8ea1-001a4bcf6878.html

Posted by sr at 9:37 PM | Permalink

Base security beefed up at Marine headquarters after 2012 attack, drawdown

By Gretel C. Kovach
11:57 a.m.May 10, 2014

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — At night, the perimeter of the massive headquarters base for international forces in Helmand Province is ablaze with floodlights that could blind approaching enemy fighters.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/May/10/camp-leatherneck-security-task-force-belleau-wood/?st#article-copy

Posted by sr at 9:27 PM | Permalink

May 10th, 2014 | Posted by Hope Hodge Seck

Not all working dogs in Afghanistan sniff explosives or walk patrols.

To continue reading:

http://blogs.militarytimes.com/battle-rattle/2014/05/10/meet-steel-the-marines-morale-dog-in-afghanistan/

Posted by sr at 11:37 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Octavia Davis | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 05.05.2014
Date Posted: 05.09.2014 11:00

Recruits must swim 25 meters before moving on to jumping off a 10-foot tower, swimming with a gear pack and shedding combat gear underwater. The recruits must successfully complete each exercise to pass the overall qualification, a graduation requirement. If the recruits become Marines, they will be expected to requalify in water survival regularly. Fox and November Companies are scheduled to graduate July 3, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 7 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1327799/photo-gallery-parris-island-recruits-learn-basic-marine-swim-survival-techniques#.U242MSg_w_w

Posted by sr at 9:21 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Octavia Davis | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 04.29.2014
Date Posted: 05.09.2014 09:32

Recruits of Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, rappel from a 47-foot tower April 29, 2014, on Parris Island, S.C. Recruits slide down ropes belayed by anchors at the tower’s peak and drill instructors on the ground. Rappel training mimics descending from a helicopter skid or the side of a building using a rope and harness. These skills are some the recruits may need if they become Marines. Bravo Company is scheduled to graduate June 20, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 6 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1327258/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-descend-parris-island-tower-develop-rappelling-skills#.U240dSg_w_w

Posted by sr at 9:14 AM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Jon Holmes
Date Posted:05.08.2014 13:08

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - As a young man, Charles Krulak respected the values of his father – selflessness, moral courage and integrity. His father, Marine Lieutenant General Victor H. Krulak, imparted in his son the same values introduced to him as a Marine.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129187/values-marine#.U27_BNq9KSO

Posted by KC at 11:53 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl Charles Santamaria
Date Posted:05.08.2014 19:24

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Mountain leaders from the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center conducted an Animal Packing Refresher Course at the MCMWTC’s stables, April 29.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129242/mountain-leaders-sharpen-animal-packing-skills#.U27_Ktq9KSP

Posted by KC at 11:44 PM | Permalink

Story by LCpl Unique Roberts
Date Posted:05.08.2014 16:53

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Approximately 30 Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 223 returned to Cherry Point from Okinawa, Japan, and Korea after supporting the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, during a Unit Deployment Program April 30.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129224/vma-223-marines-return-supporting-31st-meu#.U275nNq9KSO

Posted by KC at 11:20 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl Cody Haas
Date Posted:05.08.2014 06:29

FORWARD OPERATING BASE NOLAY, Afghanistan – Units currently deployed to Afghanistan are conducting missions to decrease the amount of gear and personnel aboard forward operating bases and combat outposts. One of the units providing this type of support is Combat Logistics Battalion 7.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129131/clb-7-marines-sailors-complete-convoy-out-forward-operating-base-nolay-final-time#.U3ENvdq9KSP

Posted by KC at 1:13 PM | Permalink

Story by LCpl Andrea Cleopatra
Date Posted:05.08.2014 09:16

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - It is initiative that proved vital in the success of Sgt. Jason Connolly, an aviation ordnance systems technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14. He recently earned the Marine Corps Aviation Association’s Ordnance Marine of the Year Award.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129153/mals-14-marine-crowned-ordnance-marine-year#.U3EKbtq9KSP

Posted by KC at 12:57 PM | Permalink

Final Exit: Afghanistan War Diary

By Gretel C. Kovach
8:32 a.m. May 8, 2014

SANGIN, Afghanistan — I climbed the basement stairs of the “drug lord palace” where we slept at Forward Operating Base Jackson/Sabit Qadam one morning and did a double-take. Maj. Mike Johannes was sitting out front sipping something from a travel mug.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/May/08/sangin-coffee-war-diary-afghanistan/?st#article-copy

Posted by sr at 12:40 PM | Permalink

Jeremy Bender
May 8, 2014, 4:38 PM

Anton Sattler says he could not have made his award-winning CHOSIN documentary or its spin-off graphic novels without what he learned in the Marine Corps.

To continue reading:

http://www.businessinsider.com/anton-sattler-brian-iglesias-chosin-2014-5

Posted by sr at 12:04 PM | Permalink

May 8th, 2014 | Battle Rattle | Posted by Hope Hodge Seck

Look at the two pictures below. One is a controller for your average Playstation 2 machine. One flies the $14 million K-Max drone, which the Marine Corps uses to transport up to 6,000 pounds of gear and equipment at a time. Can you tell which is which?

To continue reading:

http://blogs.militarytimes.com/battle-rattle/2014/05/08/a-video-game-controller-flies-this-14-million-drone/

Posted by sr at 11:43 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Octavia Davis | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 04.29.2014
Date Posted: 05.08.2014 11:52

Rct. Brittney Lindmeier, a 19-year-old Mountain Rest, S.C., native, is currently training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., in hopes of earning the title of United States Marine. Approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view three photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1324739/mountain-rest-sc-native-training-parris-island-become-us-marine#.U22kOSg_xPZ

Posted by sr at 8:34 AM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Jacob Harrer
Date Posted:05.07.2014 20:00

CLOVIS, Calif. – Combat action in Iraq and Afghanistan prepared a Clovis resident and U.S. Marine to save a critically-injured crash victim after he witnessed a collision on Highway 41 May 6.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/129091/clovis-resident-us-marine-combat-veteran-saves-life-crash-victim-highway-41#.U278Qtq9KSP

Posted by KC at 11:33 PM | Permalink

By Carlos Bongioanni
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 7, 2014

WASHINGTON — Lined row upon row, the names etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s polished black granite slabs are a somber reminder that more than 58,000 U.S. troops died — or were listed as missing-in-action — as a result of their involvement in the Vietnam War.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/the-poignant-process-of-etching-new-names-into-the-vietnam-wall-1.281939

Posted by KC at 10:56 PM | Permalink

May 07, 2014 | by Bryant Jordan

While Pentagon leaders tell Congress it must cut pay and benefits to maintain readiness at a time of lean budgets, the commission with the actual task of recommending changes to compensation is preparing an interim report due in June.

To continue reading:

http://www.military.com/daily-news/2014/05/07/commission-could-decide-future-pay-and-benefits.html?ESRC=todayinmil.sm

Posted by KC at 7:19 PM | Permalink

By TRAVIS M. WHITEHEAD Valley Morning Star
Posted: Wednesday, May 7, 2014 10:11 pm

When Staff Sgt. Troy Garza first arrived in Sangin Valley in Afghanistan, he and his fellow Marines faced daily firefights with insurgents.

To continue reading:

http://www.valleymorningstar.com/news/local_news/article_7bdc2414-d65e-11e3-bf06-001a4bcf6878.html

Posted by sr at 12:32 PM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Octavia Davis | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 04.28.2014
Date Posted: 05.06.2014 13:59

The recruits' 13-week mission to become Marines had only just begun, but drill instructors ensure recruits are quickly immersed in the controlled chaos of boot camp. Regardless of their lifestyles before to boot camp, recruits must be loud, fast and intense at virtually all times during training. Oscar and Charlie Companies are scheduled to graduate July 25, 2014. Parris Island has been the site of Marine Corps recruit training since Nov. 1, 1915. Today, approximately 20,000 recruits come to Parris Island annually for the chance to become United States Marines by enduring 13 weeks of rigorous, transformative training. Parris Island is home to entry-level enlisted training for 50 percent of males and 100 percent of females in the Marine Corps.

To view 7 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1318282/photo-gallery-parris-island-welcomes-its-newest-hopeful-recruits-ready-marine-boot-camp#.U2pUVCjWlPY

Posted by sr at 10:39 AM | Permalink

Afghans secure northern Helmand as NATO combat mission wanes

4:19 a.m. May 5, 2014

SANGIN, Afghanistan — The last U.S. Marines withdrew from northern Helmand early Monday morning, turning their two bases in the hard-fought Sangin district over to Afghan national security forces.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/may/05/marines-withdraw-sangin-afghanistan/?st

Posted by sr at 9:51 AM | Permalink

Final Exit: Afghanistan War Diary

Gretel C. Kovach
1:05 a.m. May 4, 2014

QUANTICO, Va. — We stopped on our way to Afghanistan so I could accept the Gen. Oliver P. Smith award for local reporting from the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. Nel Cepeda, the photographer I work with in the war zone, was worried my head might swell too big for my Kevlar helmet. He reminded me that the medal I got for preserving Marine Corps history ranks just above Cracker Jack status, compared to the one on the pale blue ribbon worn by another guest at the annual awards gala last month at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, near Quantico, Va.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/May/04/marine-heritage-awards-museum/?st#article-copy

Posted by sr at 10:07 AM | Permalink

Story by Cpl Austin Long
Date Posted:05.03.2014 22:11

FORT BLISS, Texas - When troops are in a grueling firefight while on patrol, the sound of an approaching attack helicopter can give hope for the Marines and sailors engaging the enemy. Attack helicopters provide troops with an advantage over ground forces when trying to accomplish a mission. It provides them with a better view point of the battlefield and superior fire power unmatched by enemy ground forces.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/128646/americas-battalion-takes-texas-destroy-enemy-air#.U2muc9q9KSM

Posted by KC at 10:58 PM | Permalink

Posted: Thursday, May 3, 2012 12:00 am
Lance Cpl. James Frazer 2nd Marine Division

The Marine Corps got its first chance, in December 2010, to test the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle developed by the Heckler & Koch firearm company. Marines with the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, recently got their first chance to try out the newest weapon chosen to join the arsenal of the Marine infantry units.

To continue reading:

http://www.camplejeuneglobe.com/news/article_b28f9924-95e6-11e1-bfd0-001a4bcf887a.html

Posted by KC at 1:08 PM | Permalink

May 1st, 2014 | Afghanistan Battle Rattle Camp Bastion Camp Leatherneck | Posted by gpingersoll
By Hope Hodge Seck

Camp Leatherneck–Greetings from Camp Leatherneck, a once-bustling base in Afghanistan’s Helmand province that is rapidly becoming a ghost town.

To continue reading:

http://blogs.militarytimes.com/battle-rattle/2014/05/01/leatherneck-ghost-town/?sf25686416=1

Posted by sr at 9:03 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Valerie C. Eppler | Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton | May 01, 2014

West Coast Marines earned first place overall during the 43rd Winston P. Wilson Sniper Championship hosted by the National Guard Marksmanship Training Center held at Fort Chaffee, Ark., April 19-26.

To continue reading:

http://www.pendleton.marines.mil/PendletonNews/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/5440/Article/163586/pendleton-snipers-take-first-place-in-national-competition.aspx

Posted by KC at 1:19 PM | Permalink