Knowledge projected, information received
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — More than six weeks ago, 120 Marines in Marine Security Guard School class 1-09 started on a mission which included more than 300 hours in the classroom covering a variety of subjects from diplomatic courtesies to alcohol abuse in their quest to become embassy guards.
http://www.marines.mil/units/hqmc/quantico/Pages/Knowledgeprojected,informationreceived.aspx
12/11/2008 By Lance Cpl. Meloney R. Moses, Marine Corps Base Quantico
These classes are significant because they prepare Marines for the responsibility of providing internal embassy security.
‘‘It’s an intense course. We throw out information quickly and they must absorb it and regurgitate it back to us the same way,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Kidder, the MSG School Assistant Operations Chief of the Marine Security Group.
Kidder explained that there are more than 60 periods of instruction.
Classes such as defensive tactics, flex cuffing, edged weapons defense, handcuffing and expandable baton, trains the Marines for physical defense against encounters and to gives them a first responder’s level of training.
We see what goes on around the world, and we’re providing a well trained Marine to serve in U.S. embassies, Kidder said.
Additional classes focus on cultural awareness and prevention and adjusting to living in a foreign country.
Kidder also explained that Marines receive quarterly training at their posts to make sure they continue to hone and maintain their level of skill and knowledge.
Students disagree about which parts of the course were most difficult.
Cpl. Nathan Diezman, said the hardest part was the practical application, while Lance Cpl. Richard Kennedy said the hardest part was the written tests.
‘‘Some parts are hard, but I’m confident now,” said Kennedy. ‘‘I’m looking forward to what’s to come.”
Classes are beginning to wind down as Marines prepare for graduation and movement to their embassy posts.
For more information about MSG school, contact Gunnery Sgt. Drew Pate at [email protected] or call 703-784-4861.
Editor’s note: This is the fifth story in a six-part series. See previous stories and photos on the Web at www.quantico. usmc.mil.