Marine Corps News Room

Maj. Gen. Joseph Osterman on keeping NATO troops safe as most head home

By Gretel C. Kovach
noon Aug. 31, 2013

The last time Maj. Gen. Joseph Osterman served in Afghanistan, the United States was doubling its forces in the southwest during the 2010 surge. Now the former Camp Pendleton Marine and Task Force Leatherneck commander oversees a rapidly dwindling force, as the Kabul-based operations officer for the coalition.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/31/osterman-interview-afghanistan-drawdown/?st

Posted by sr at 4:34 PM | Permalink

By Capt. Garron J. Garn | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 31, 2013

BRADSHAW FIELD TRAINING AREA, Northern Territory, Australia -- As I write this, I am 300 miles deep into the Australian outback. I’m hot, dirty, smelly, sticky, covered in dust, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. The Marines around me are in the same state of dress and from their laughter and good-natured teasing, I can say with confidence that they wouldn’t want it any other way either.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/149048/can-you-believe-we-get-paid-to-do-this.aspx

Posted by KC at 11:26 AM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Paul Peterson | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | Date: 08.30.2013

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - Before the War on Terror, the toppling of the oppressive Taliban regime in Afghanistan, or the attacks of Sept. 11, a young boy from the Bronx knew one thing: he wanted to help.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112909/afghan-streets-nypd-officer-serves-afghanistan#.UiInND8lI_w

Posted by sr at 12:31 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.30.2013

PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. - Following the tradition of every Marine a marksman, recruits of November Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, fired their weapons Aug. 28, 2013, at one of the ranges on Parris Island, S.C.

To view seven photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1006953/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-qualify-parris-island-rifle-range#.UiImJT8lI_w

Posted by sr at 12:25 PM | Permalink

By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 30, 201

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa — They first crossed into the Pacific Ocean in 1966 to support Marines in Vietnam.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/sun-sets-on-marines-historic-phrogs-1.238222

Posted by KC at 11:33 AM | Permalink

‘Tragically, (Michael) gave his last full measure of devotion in protecting his country, and our freedoms,’ Mayor Bloomberg said. The Staten Island resident, whose family had a military tradition, died Wednesday in Ghani Province in an attack that involved an improvised explosive device and small arms fire.

By Ginger Adams Otis / NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
Published: Friday, August 30, 2013, 11:51 AM

Growing up on Staten Island, Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis dreamed of being like his father and grandfather and serving in the U.S. Army.

To continue reading about Fallen Hero, Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis:

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/new-york-city-soldier-michael-ollis-24-killed-afghan-rebels-article-1.1441501

Posted by sr at 11:02 AM | Permalink

August 29th, 2013
Posted by Gina Harkins

A group of Marine reservists are leading a three-day, 81 mile hike in Florida this weekend to honor those who died in the Battle of Fallujah in 2004.

To continue reading:

http://blogs.militarytimes.com/battle-rattle/2013/08/29/marines-to-hike-81-miles-over-labor-day-weekend-to-honor-fallujah-heroes/

Posted by sr at 11:53 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Alisa J. Helin | 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 29, 2013

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. --
Marines with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participated in a non-lethal weapons course at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 5-16, 2013.

To continue reading:

http://www.22ndmeu.marines.mil/News/ArticleView/tabid/196/Article/148938/22nd-meu-marines-complete-non-lethal-weapons-course.aspx

Posted by sr at 9:23 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.29.2013

Recruits polish their newly acquired basic combat training skills on the training course and will continue to build on what they learned throughout their Marine Corps careers. Delta Company is scheduled to graduate Sept. 13, 2013. 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 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1006036/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-learn-combat-skills-parris-island-training-course#.UiFQmz8lI_w

Posted by sr at 11:16 AM | Permalink

General spearheading effort to honor every fallen member of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines Association

By Linda McIntosh
6:30 a.m.Aug. 28, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON — A Marine general is spearheading an effort to honor every fallen member of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines based at Camp Pendleton in a memorial at the Semper Fidelis Memorial Park in Virginia.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/28/fallenheroes-2nd-battalion4thmarines-memorial/?st

Posted by sr at 9:41 PM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Sarah Fiocco
08.28.2013

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE’S BASE DARWIN, Northern Territory, Australia – Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin took off to Bradshaw Field Training Area for Exercise Koolendong on four MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, here, Aug. 28

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112720/mrf-d-marines-take-off-bradshaw#.Uh-foMu9KSN

Posted by KC at 2:29 PM | Permalink

Staff Report
Aug. 27, 2013 - 06:00AM

Marines in the Middle East, Africa and Europe are poised to reach Syria within hours should President Obama order a strike on the country as officials work to determine whether the government there was involved in a chemical weapons attack against its own people.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20130827/NEWS08/308270036/Marine-units-positioned-near-Syria

Posted by sr at 10:02 PM | Permalink

By Gina Harkins
Staff writer
Aug. 27, 2013 - 07:15PM

About 100 Marines deploying to the Middle East and North Africa did a portion of their predeployment training in an unlikely place — a university classroom.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20130827/NEWS/309020001/Marines-head-college-predeployment-training

Posted by sr at 9:56 PM | Permalink

By Seth Robson
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 27, 2013

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — More than 1,000 Marines will train in Australia over the next two weeks, testing the waters for the six-month deployment of a battalion-size force there next year.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/marine-corps/australia-exercise-to-test-facilities-for-expanded-us-marine-corps-presence-1.237533

Posted by KC at 1:14 AM | Permalink

Photo by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.26.2013

Training sessions are intended to prepare recruits for the Marine Corps' high physical fitness standards. Bravo Company is scheduled to graduate Nov. 1, 2013. 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 for females in the Marine Corps.

To view seven photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1004508/photo-gallery-parris-island-obstacle-course-bested-marine-recruits#.UiIZxD8lI_w

Posted by sr at 11:33 AM | Permalink

By THOMAS BRENNAN Daily News Staff
Published: Monday, August 26, 2013 at 10:00 AM.

She's not the first or last. She's the only one.

To continue reading:

http://www.jdnews.com/news/local/marine-describes-service-as-platoon-s-only-woman-1.192058

Posted by KC at 1:22 AM | Permalink

By RACHEL COHEN
The Associated Press
Published: August 25, 2013

NEW YORK — From his hospital bed, Angelo Anderson could see the wheelchair, the cane and the walker with the tennis balls on the bottom.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/news/us/injured-in-afghanistan-now-us-open-ballperson-1.237304?=&utm;_source=Stars+and+Stripes+Emails&utm;_campaign=Daily+Headlines&utm;_medium=email

Posted by KC at 1:24 AM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Alisa Helin
08.25.2013

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Marines with Alpha Co., Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), completed tactical site exploitation training at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Aug. 19-21, 2013.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112572/blt-1-6-marines-complete-tactical-site-exploitation-training#.Uh2PD8u9KSN

Posted by KC at 12:55 AM | Permalink

Story by 1LT Joshua Larson
08.22.2013

PRINCIPE TRAINING CAMP, Spain – Marines and sailors with the Marine Corps’ newest unit, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response, joined forces with the Spanish army for bilateral live-fire training at the Principe Training Camp in Spain, July 29 through Aug. 1, 2013.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112376/newest-marine-unit-trains-with-spanish-soldiers#.Uhi668u9KSN

Posted by KC at 9:08 AM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Marcy Sanchez
08.23.2013

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. - Distinguished guests and media witnessed a first in Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort history when the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter debuted to the Beaufort, S.C. community during a showcase of the aircraft aboard MCAS Beaufort, Aug. 20.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112478/lightning-strikes-twice-beaufort#.Uhi3QMu9KSN

Posted by KC at 8:46 AM | Permalink

By Linda McIntosh
7 a.m.Aug. 21, 2013

SAN MARCOS — World War II veteran Arthur Smith is among the 90 year old San Marcos residents to be honored at a community birthday celebration Aug. 27 at the San Marcos Senior Center.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/21/wwii-veteran-guam-90thbirthday-marine-sanmarcos/

Posted by sr at 5:11 PM | Permalink

4,200 sailors and Marines head off for regular deployment

By Jeanette Steele
12:21 p.m.Aug. 21, 2013

A San Diego-based group of amphibious warships will depart home Friday for a planned half-year deployment.

To continue reading about the 13th MEU:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/21/boxer-amphibious-deployment-august-2013/?st

Posted by sr at 5:07 PM | Permalink

By The Associated Press, Greta Kreuz
August 21, 2013 - 06:49 am

WASHINGTON (AP/WJLA) - The popular Marine Corps Marathon is tweaking its route this year to give participants a flatter course and a new, longer approach to the U.S. Capitol.

To continue reading:

http://www.wjla.com/articles/2013/08/marine-corps-marathon-revises-route-93007.html

Posted by sr at 4:49 PM | Permalink

Photo by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.21.2013

India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, overcame many exercises during a physical training session Aug. 21, 2013, on Parris Island, S.C. Recruits endure at least 30 physical training sessions during recruit training to build them up to the Marine Corps' fitness standards. India Company is scheduled to graduate Oct. 25, 2013. 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 for females in the Marine Corps.

To view eight photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1005997/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-improve-physical-fitness-parris-island#.UiOj8z8lI_x

Posted by sr at 3:38 PM | Permalink

Story by Sgt James Shea
08.21.2013

LANDOVER, Md. - Two Marines were honored during a “Salute to Service Moment” at an NFL game Monday, Aug. 19 at FedEx Field in Landover, Md.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112334/marines-honored-field-during-nfl-football-game#.Uhi_MMu9KSO

Posted by KC at 9:16 AM | Permalink

Photo by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.20.2013

Photo of a Recruit training with Platoon 3085, India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, and is scheduled to graduate Oct. 25 2013.

To view photo:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1009239/new-castle-del-native-training-parris-island-become-us-marine#.Uia1wT8lI_x

Posted by sr at 11:30 PM | Permalink

Photo by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.20.2013

Photo of a Recruit training with Platoon 3084, India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, and is scheduled to graduate Oct. 25 2013.

To view photo:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1009237/miami-native-training-parris-island-become-us-marine#.Uia0Mz8lI_x

Posted by sr at 11:22 PM | Permalink

Photo by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.20.2013

Photo of a Recruit training with Platoon 3085, India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, and is scheduled to graduate Oct. 25 2013.

To view photo:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1009235/rising-sun-md-native-training-parris-island-become-us-marine#.Uiay2z8lI_x

Posted by sr at 11:15 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Ryan Joyner | Marine Corps Air Station New River | August 20, 2012

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. --
Marines from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 gained proficiency in the new UH-1Y “Venom” Hueys by practicing flying and landing in confined areas aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Aug. 9.

To continue reading:

http://www.newriver.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/736/Article/75684/hmla-269-transitions-to-uh-1y.aspx

Posted by KC at 12:06 PM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.20.2013

Recruits maneuver through obstacles Aug. 20, 2013, on the Confidence Course on Parris Island, S.C. The course helps recruits build self-confidence by completing mentally and physically challenging obstacles. India Company is scheduled to graduate Oct. 25, 2013. 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 for females in the Marine Corps. (Photos by Cpl. Caitlin Brink)

To view 9 photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1004587/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-bolster-confidence-parris-island#.Uh9hbD8lI_w

Posted by sr at 10:00 AM | Permalink

By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 20, 2013

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa — The Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 “Flying Tigers” are in their final days flying the CH-46 Sea Knights. Later this year, the squadron will transition to the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft and decommission the Sea Knights, according to Marine Corps officials.

To continue reading:

http://www.stripes.com/sea-knights-prepping-for-final-takeoff-from-okinawa-1.235852

Posted by KC at 9:29 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.19.2013

PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. - Recruits of India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, tackled one of Parris Island’s obstacle courses as part of their physical training Aug. 19, 2013.

To view photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/1000191/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-hurdle-through-training-parris-island#.UhV_sD8lI_w

Posted by sr at 10:01 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 19, 201

SYDNEY, New South Wales, Australia -- The fields on which the Marines and Sailors fought were nearly identical, but the battles were drastically different. One field featured brutal collisions in a continuous struggle for ground, while the other featured complicated maneuvering to gain the advantage for a rare offensive strike.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/148345/a-couple-of-friendlies-amongst-friends.aspx

Posted by KC at 6:07 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Jonathan G. Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 19, 2013

SYDNEY, New South Wales, Australia --
Her eyes lit up with excitement as the visitors stood by her bed dressed in their uniforms. The young girl’s shyness couldn’t mask her giddiness at the situation and the beeping of the heart monitor sang the tune of her exhilaration.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/148314/australian-children-visited-by-those-yanks-from-the-boat.aspx

Posted by KC at 5:55 PM | Permalink

Hard times no more for annual parade in a military town?

By Jeanette Steele
12:24 p.m.Aug. 19, 2013

After years of painful fund-raising and being shuffled from site to site, the San Diego Veteran's Day parade will get a new title sponsor and return to Harbor Drive, the location that one organizer called the most prestigious start line in town.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/19/veterans-day-parade-title-sponsor/?st

Posted by sr at 4:59 PM | Permalink

Story by Sgt. Ben Eberle
Date Posted:08.17.2013 19:00

FIVE HILLS TRAINING AREA, Mongolia – U.S. Marines and Mongolian Armed Forces service members were back on the parade deck here for the start of another training evolution Aug. 17, only a couple days after the closing ceremony for the multinational peacekeeping exercise Khaan Quest 2013.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112171/mongolian-troops-police-begin-non-lethal-weapons-exercise-with-us-marines#.UnsdC7K9KSM

Posted by KC at 11:08 PM | Permalink

By Ambrose Evans-Pritchard, London Daily Telegraph August 17, 2013

U.S. Marines go to war in Afghanistan with solar cells embedded in their rucksacks, efficient enough to recharge lithium-ion batteries for radios and greatly lighten loads. Field patrols will soon have almost weightless solar blankets as well. These will be able to capture a once unthinkable 35 per cent of the sun's light as energy thanks to thin membranes technology, a spinoff from satellites.

To continue reading:

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Forget+fracking+solar+ticket+energy+military/8801685/story.html

Posted by sr at 8:25 PM | Permalink

By Mark Emmons
POSTED: 08/16/2013

SAN CARLOS -- They were a tight-knit group of warriors, U.S. Marines from Echo Company who staked their lives on one another as they helped lead the ground invasion into Iraq 10 years ago.

To read the entire article:

http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_23878426/bay-area-marines-reunite-10-years-after-their

Posted by KC at 11:37 PM | Permalink

Story by Sgt Anthony Kirby
Date Taken: 08.03.2013
Date Posted:08.16.2013

OKINAWA, Japan - There are many ways to give back to the community. Whether by providing a meal or doing beautification work, going out and being a positive influence in the community is a great way to connect with people beyond the confines of a military base.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112077/3rd-supply-battalion-earns-hearts-with-tour#.UhLlXMu9KSM

Posted by KC at 10:48 PM | Permalink

Story by 1LT Gerard Farao
08.16.2013

USS SAN ANTONIO, At Sea – U.S. Marines assigned Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted training in non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO) aboard the USS San Antonio (LPD 17), at sea, August 16, 2013.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112170/combat-logistics-battalion-26-trains-non-combatant-evacuation-operations#.UhA3Msu9KSN

Posted by KC at 9:58 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl William Jackson
08.16.2013

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - As the Marine Corps moves closer to its expeditionary roots, Marine Aircraft Group 24 is imparting this mentality on their current combat-level deployment training aboard the Combat Center.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112145/mag-24-builds-expeditionary-roots#.UhA1f8u9KSO

Posted by KC at 9:41 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl William Jackson
08.16.2013

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - The flight line roars with the sounds of Whiskeys and Yankees, the different types of helicopters that Marine Light Attack Squadron 367 utilizes. Heat vapors rise and fits of dust blow through the desert as mechanics and crewman diligently work on the birds on the flight line during their shift.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112148/hmla-367-provides-precise-fire-trap#.UhAupMu9KSN

Posted by KC at 9:30 PM | Permalink

Peter Bodkin
From: The Daily Telegraph
August 16, 2013 10:41AM

A 40,000-ton US Navy warship arrived in Sydney Harbour this morning after finishing a series of training exercises with Australian defence forces.

To continue reading:

http://www.news.com.au/national-news/nsw-act/uss-bonhomme-richard-arrives-at-garden-island-in-sydney/story-fnii5s3x-1226698347803?from=public_rss

Posted by KC at 10:22 AM | Permalink

By Pfc. Andy Orozco | Marine Corps Air Station New River | August 16, 2013

Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. --
Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 Motor Transport Company Marines conducted a motorized operations course aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., Aug. 1, as part of the squadron’s Integrated Training Exercise.

To continue reading:

http://www.newriver.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/736/Article/148133/mwss-272-conducts-moc-during-itx.aspx

Posted by KC at 10:12 AM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Jorden M. Wells | Marine Corps Air Station New River | August 16, 2013

Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. --
After more than seven months in the arid desert of Afghanistan, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 made their triumphant return to their awaiting families in the early morning hours of Aug. 10, inside their hanger aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River

To continue reading:

http://www.newriver.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/736/Article/148130/families-friends-welcome-vmm-264-home.aspx

Posted by KC at 9:41 AM | Permalink

By Katia Hetter, CNN
updated 1:10 PM EDT, Thu August 15, 2013

(CNN) -- Former U.S. Marine Dan Hottle knew he had found his dream job at Yellowstone National Park.

To continue reading:

http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/15/travel/yellowstone-summer-in-the-park/

Posted by sr at 7:48 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.15.2013

Recruits of Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, tested their limits and completed the Confidence Course Aug. 5, 2013, on Parris Island, S.C.

To view photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112030/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-build-confidence-ber-obstacle-course#.UhUsZD8lI_w

Posted by sr at 4:12 PM | Permalink

Story by SSgt Brian Rust
08.15.2013

WASHINGTON⎯In a formal ceremony on Aug. 23 at the Marine Barracks Annex, Marine Band Historian Master Gunnery Sgt. Michael Ressler will retire from the U.S. Marine Corps after 39 years of active duty service. He has served as a euphonium player, librarian, chief librarian, support staff section commander, and, since 2008, the band’s first-ever historian.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/112012/marine-band-historian-retires-after-39-year-career#.Ug-Qo8u9KSN

Posted by KC at 10:07 AM | Permalink

Photos by Cpl. Caitlin Brink | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.14.2013

PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. - Recruits of Papa Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion, completed a physical fitness test Aug. 14, 2013, on Parris Island, S.C.

To view photos:

http://www.dvidshub.net/image/996717/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-test-physical-fitness-parris-island#.UhWC5z8lI_w

Posted by sr at 10:19 PM | Permalink

By Gina Harkins
Staff writer
Aug. 14, 2013 - 07:35AM

Much of Mexico is now off limits to Marines and other troops looking to travel there, and one expert said it provides a clear message that the U.S. can’t rely on Mexican authorities to protect American military personnel.

To continue reading:

http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20130814/NEWS/308140006/New-rules-make-much-Mexico-off-limits-Marines

Posted by sr at 4:07 PM | Permalink

Story by Cpl. Melissa Wenger | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 08.13.2013

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – It was a star-studded event as two commanding generals hosted a luncheon Aug. 12 to honor 70 Marines and spouses for their support of the Veterans Village of San Diego Stand Down last week, but if you ask the generals, the volunteers were the stars.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111889/generals-honor-mwss-373-marines-supporting-homeless-vets#.Ugr2CG0lI_w

Posted by sr at 10:17 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. Tiffany Edwards | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 08.13.2013

CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. – In the misty, pre-dawn light of the Indiana morning, Marines marched onto the rifle range. Covered and aligned, each platoon from Companies F and G, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, grounded their packs and began setting up two-man tents.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111900/back-basics-marines-co-f-and-g-2-24-practice-crucial-marksmanship-fundamentals#.Ugrzpm0lI_w

Posted by sr at 10:04 PM | Permalink

August 13, 2013 3:51 PM

(CBS) — It is a high military honor for bravery, once awarded to John F. Kennedy years before he was elected president.

To continue reading:

http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/08/13/local-marine-awarded-medal-for-bravery-in-afghanistan/

Posted by sr at 3:54 PM | Permalink

By By THOMAS BRENNAN - Daily News Staff
Published: Tuesday, August 13, 2013 at 18:14 PM.

Tuesday marked the fifth time in its history that a specific Camp Lejeune unit has been disbanded.

To continue reading:

http://www.jdnews.com/news/military/3-9-cases-its-colors-1.186427

Posted by sr at 1:46 PM | Permalink

By LCpl Samuel Ellis
Aug. 12, 2013

QUANTICO, Va. - There it was, her name, Opha May Johnson, simply penned on the applicant line of a Marine Corps Reserve form. Although she typically signed her name Opha M., this was an official document and her middle name was necessary. Her decision to fill out that form entered her into an exclusively male world and would make her nothing less than a Marine Corps legend.

To continue reading:

http://www.mca-marines.org/leatherneck/female-marines-celebrate-95-years-corps

Posted by sr at 9:54 PM | Permalink

19-Year-Old Suffered Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound

By Jackie Bensen and Matthew Stabley
Monday, Aug 12, 2013

A 19-year-old Marine from South Dakota who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound may have been playing a so-called "trust game" Friday night, sources close to the investigation said.

To continue reading:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Marine-Dies-of-Self-Inflicted-Gunshot-at-DC-Barracks-219284661.html

Posted by sr at 4:44 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 11, 2013

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea -- “Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity,” said President John F. Kennedy.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/147846/strengthening-the-body-sharpening-the-mind-at-sea.aspx

Posted by KC at 10:29 PM | Permalink

Tom Sileo
Published: August 11, 2013

Whenever U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Jason Barfield called his parents from Afghanistan, he had the same message.

To continue reading about Fallen Hero, Lance Cpl. Jason N. Barfield, of the 3rd CEB:

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2013/08/11/2625755/the-unknown-soldiers-to-him-every.html

Posted by sr at 2:35 PM | Permalink

Darkhorse Marines from 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, three years later

By Gretel C. Kovach
1:50 p.m.Aug. 10, 2013 Updated3:56 p.m.

Juan Dominguez and his bride Alexis exchanged vows on a warm evening this spring at a Temecula winery. The couple met a year after a bomb buried in the hard ground of Sangin, Afghanistan, blew away his legs and an arm.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/10/marines-cope-after-sangin-battle/?st

Posted by sr at 9:15 PM | Permalink

By Cpl. Paul Peterson | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | August 09, 2013

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- There’s a small, ramshackle hut just beyond the entrance to Forward Operating Base Kajaki, which overlooks an elbow in the Helmand River in southern Afghanistan.

To continue reading:

http://www.2ndmlg.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3874/Article/147749/marine-army-convoy-brings-home-to-helmand.aspx

Posted by sr at 7:26 PM | Permalink

13th MEU SCA Team brings security to Boxer Amphibious Ready Group
Story by Sgt Christopher O'Quin
08.09.2013

AT SEA - More than 200 years ago, United States Marines deftly and bravely fought with muskets and swords to repel their boarders and ensure no enemy, pirate or military could seize their ships. Now in the 21st Century, Marines from Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit carry on their forefathers’ legacy as part of the Small Craft Action Team (SCAT).

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111630/13th-meu-sca-team-brings-security-boxer-amphibious-ready-group#.UgZNPMu9KSO

Posted by KC at 9:42 AM | Permalink

By Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 09, 2013

SHOALWATER BAY TRAINING AREA, Queensland, Australia -- With one knee resting on the crusty, dry soil, the Marine peered down the road and watched as the loose dirt broke apart under the weight of the approaching trucks. As the trucks passed, destined for the nearby community, he could see their beds were loaded with food, water and medical supplies. The Marine logistics team was on the scene and the people would now receive the assistance they requested.

To continue reading:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleView/tabid/7377/Article/147838/marines-demonstrate-humanitarian-aid-capabilities-during-certex.aspx

Posted by KC at 9:31 AM | Permalink

Kelly family helped foundation raise record amount of scholarship funding

By Gretel C. Kovach
3:58 p.m.Aug. 8, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON — When Karen Kelly’s son died in Afghanistan, she felt a duty to honor him and the sacrifices he made as the child of a Marine and later as a Marine himself.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/08/marine-corps-scholarship-foundation-awards/?st

Posted by sr at 9:58 PM | Permalink

Posted by StevenLeeDouglasWV on August 8, 2013

The Army National Guard, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve and the Coast Guard Reserve announced this week a decrease in activated National Guard members and reservists, while the Army Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, and the Air National Guard announced an increase of activated reservists. The net collective result is 290 fewer activated National Guard members and reservists in comparison to last week.

To continue reading:

http://thecommunicatorwv.wordpress.com/2013/08/08/national-guard-in-federal-status-and-reserve-activated-as-of-august-6-2013/

Posted by KC at 4:09 PM | Permalink

Aug. 7, 2013 - 08:41AM
The Associated Press

HONOLULU — The Marine Corps in Hawaii is conducting an environmental assessment in anticipation of receiving additional surveillance drones.

To continue reading:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/article/20130807/NEWS04/308070008/Hawaii-become-huge-drone-base-Marine-Corps

Posted by sr at 8:50 PM | Permalink

BY: Alana Goodman
August 7, 2013 11:30 am

Four years ago, an Afghan translator known as “Hafez” charged into enemy fire to help Marine Corporal Dakota Meyer rescue wounded American soldiers during one of the most famous battles in the Afghanistan war.

To continue reading:

http://freebeacon.com/the-abandoned/

Posted by sr at 5:43 PM | Permalink

Story by Lance Cpl. MaryAnn Hill | Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island | Date: 08.06.2013

PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. - Recruits of Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, honed their bayonet techniques as they battled each other during pugil stick training July 29, 2013, on Parris Island, S.C.

To continue reading:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111458/photo-gallery-marine-recruits-practice-bayonet-techniques-during-pugil-stick-training#.UgJbSqwSSKJ

Posted by sr at 9:37 AM | Permalink

by Sean Carberry
August 04, 2013 3:58 AM

At the peak of fighting in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, there were 20,000 Marines battling the Taliban. Now there are 8,000 — and more are heading home every month.

To continue reading:

http://www.npr.org/2013/08/04/208747469/regimental-combat-team-7-rolls-up-its-flag-in-afghanistan

Posted by sr at 11:11 AM | Permalink

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 03, 2013

TOWNSHEND ISLAND, Queensland, Australia -- Like a drum beat, the cannons of naval vessels, rockets of circling aircraft, and shells of artillery pieces echo across the valley. Sweating under the weight of their armor, mortarmen anxiously wait for the opportunity to add their notes to the song

To read the entire article:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleView/tabid/7377/Article/147433/testing-mortar-skills-in-the-hills-of-australia.aspx

Posted by KC at 9:38 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 03, 2013

TOWNSHEND ISLAND, Queensland, Australia -- The fire mission came from an Australian command center, was relayed through an American forward observer, and executed by a team of American artillerymen followed by Australian helicopters in close air support.

To read the entire article:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/147452/31st-meu-coordinates-large-scale-destruction-with-australian-counterparts.aspx

Posted by KC at 9:25 PM | Permalink

Geoffrey Ingersoll and Brian Jones
Aug. 3, 2013, 5:04 PM

A recent post in the Fiscal Times quipped that Afghanistan may be the "Marines' last fight.".

To continue reading:

http://www.businessinsider.com/49-reasons-america-marine-corps-2013-8?op=1

Posted by sr at 8:41 PM | Permalink

Courtesy story by Lance Cpl. Chloe R. Nelson
08.03.2013

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Japan - Two MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, part of the second MV-22 squadron to Okinawa and Japan, landed at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan, Aug. 3.

To read the entire article:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111299/two-mv-22b-ospreys-arrive-mcas-futenma#.Uf6lZMu9KSN

Posted by KC at 2:05 PM | Permalink

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | August 03, 2013

TOWNSHEND ISLAND, Queensland, Australia -- The artillery pieces, ammunition and skills were all the same, the only difference was the accent.

To read the entire article:

http://www.31stmeu.marines.mil/News/tabid/2392/Article/147432/collaborative-cannons-in-australia.aspx

Posted by KC at 1:42 PM | Permalink

By Lance Cpl. Alejandro Bedoya | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center | August 02, 2013

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif. --
Marines and sailors with Company B, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 8th Marine Regiment, participated in a company-sized attack at the Combat Center’s Range 401, July 26.

To continue reading:

http://www.29palms.marines.mil/News/NewsArticleDisplay/tabid/3005/Article/147612/marines-attack-range-401.aspx

Posted by KC at 11:22 PM | Permalink

Organized assault in all-day battle against a larger enemy force

By Jeanette Steele
6:39 p.m.Aug. 2, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON — A reluctant hero received the nation’s third-highest combat award at Camp Pendleton Friday.

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/02/reluctant-marine-hero-silver-star/?st

Posted by sr at 10:35 PM | Permalink

By Linda McIntosh
6:40 a.m.Aug. 2, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON — Camp Pendleton Marines will be featured in the documentary, “Patrol Base Jaker” to be screened Aug. 24 during Oceanside’s International Film Festival

To continue reading:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/aug/02/camp-pendleton-marines-documentary-film-oceanside/

Posted by sr at 10:28 PM | Permalink

Story by LCpl David Bessey
08.02.2013

PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. – After overcoming a medical mystery that prevented him from accomplishing his dream, one Marine achieved his goal and finally graduated recruit training Aug. 2, 2013, on Parris Island, S.C.

To read the entire article:

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/111252/recruit-survives-medical-mystery-claims-title-marine-parris-island#.UgBnTcu9KSM

Posted by KC at 10:05 PM | Permalink

By Sarah B. Weir, Shine Senior Writer | Healthy Living
August 1, 2013

Lance Cpl. Myles Kerr may have lost the Jeff Drenth Memorial 5K footrace in Charlevoix, Michigan, last weekend, but he won the hearts of hundreds of thousands of admirers.

To continue reading:

http://shine.yahoo.com/healthy-living/marine-helps-boy-finish-race-viral-photo-160700586.html

Posted by sr at 3:02 PM | Permalink