World War II veterans remember: Sam Ward fought with the Marines at Saipan, Okinawa
By TIM STANLEY World Staff Writer | Updated 11/1/2016
SAND SPRINGS — He’s “still the same ol’ Sam.”
November 1, 2015
August 6, 2015
FIGHTING FOURTH DEACTIVATION CEREMONY
As reported by JD News
"Fighting Fourth," 4th Marine Division Association Deactivation Ceremony at Camp Lejeune Thursday morning, August 6, 2015.
August 1, 2015
SEA KNIGHT’S FINAL FLIGHT
By Cpl. Cuong Le, Defense Media Activity
1 Aug. 2015
CHANTILLY, VA -- The Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight conducted its first flight August 1962 and on August 1, 2015 the Sea Knight made its final flight to the Smithsonian Institution National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, in Chantilly, Virginia.
July 25, 2015
Corps details FY16 Reserve officer affiliation bonuses
By James K. Sanborn, Staff writer 1:33 p.m. EDT July 25, 2015
Some company-grade officers from any component who fill certain Reserve billets are going to cash in on $20,000 bonuses next year. In return, they will have to stay in those billets for at least three years, under guidelines laid out for fiscal year 2016. That incentive is part of a suite of officer bonuses announced by the Selected Marine Corps Reserve for the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1.
Continue reading "Corps details FY16 Reserve officer affiliation bonuses" »
July 22, 2015
Mike Battery is here': After loss, Marines regroup, move forward
July 22nd, 2015
by Shelly Bradburyin Local Regional News Read
The Marines of Mike Battery rolled into Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park early Monday morning in T-shirts and polos, shorts and jeans, unsure of exactly why they'd been called to the park.
Continue reading "Mike Battery is here': After loss, Marines regroup, move forward" »
February 19, 2015
Images: Cold weather training
by LCpl Issac Velasquez
Date Taken:02.13.2015 | Date Posted:02.19.2015 13:43
U.S. Marines of 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve participate in Exercise Frozen Riley II which is a multinational exercise between the Canada and the United States military to promote interoperability and train for cold weather crisis response.
Images: Cold weather training
by LCpl Issac Velasquez
Date Taken:02.13.2015 | Date Posted:02.19.2015 13:43
U.S. Marines of 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve participate in Exercise Frozen Riley II which is a multinational exercise between the Canada and the United States military to promote interoperability and train for cold weather crisis response.
February 17, 2015
American –Thai U.S. Marine builds community in Thailand during CG 15
Story by Cpl Ricardo Hurtado
Date Posted:02.17.2015 10:51
LOP BURI, Thailand - Exercise Cobra Gold has taken place in Thailand for the past 33 years. During its 34th iteration, Cobra Gold 2015 focuses on humanitarian civic action, community engagement and medical activities to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations in the region. This year, the 24 participating nations are working together to advance regional security and practicing effective responses to crises in the area.
Continue reading "American –Thai U.S. Marine builds community in Thailand during CG 15" »
December 9, 2014
US Marines visit Japanese high schools, share culture
Story by Cpl Drew Tech
Date Posted:12.09.2014 00:46
KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE, Japan — U.S. Marines participating in exercise Forest Light 15-1 visited with high school students Dec. 5 in Kumamoto prefecture, Japan.
Continue reading "US Marines visit Japanese high schools, share culture" »
September 28, 2014
Five-year dwell standard eyed for Marine Reserves
Story by Hope Hodge Seck | Staff writer
Sep. 28, 2014 - 03:56PM
Lt. Gen. Richard Mills, commander of Marine Forces Reserve, doesn’t intend to let the close of a ground war lead to the atrophy of the reservists in his charge.
Continue reading "Five-year dwell standard eyed for Marine Reserves" »
August 30, 2014
MARSOC offers operator spots to reservists
Story by Hope Hodge Seck
Aug. 30, 2014 - 06:00AM
Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command put out a call for enlisted reservists to join the ranks of critical skills operators.
Continue reading "MARSOC offers operator spots to reservists" »
August 20, 2014
Reserve Marines Participate In Partnership of the Americas 2014 In Support Of MARFORSOUTH
By 1st Lt. Michael Hopkins | 4th Marine Division | August 20, 2014
PICHIDANGUI, Chile -- Just as the local population evacuates their small beach town, the waves of a tsunami come crashing into their homes. Houses are flooded, windows are shattered, and lives are ruined. Some of the locals could not get to safety in time. There is limited food, water, medical care, and shelter, but there is relief on the horizon. The simulation of these scenarios allows Marines realistic training with partner nations.
August 12, 2014
Marines Eligible For Selected Early Release Program FY15
By Lance Cpl. Sara Graham | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | August 12, 2014
NEW ORLEANS --
Marine Administrative Message 378/14 announced the start of the fiscal year 2015 Selected Marine Corps Reserve Early Release Program. The program is effective Aug. 1, 2014 through Sept. 30, 2015, and focuses on cost saving and sustainment for the Marine Corps.
Continue reading "Marines Eligible For Selected Early Release Program FY15" »
June 10, 2014
“Lone Star” battalion maintains readiness during annual training
Story by Cpl. John McCall | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 06.10.2014
FORT POLK, La. – The trait of being always ready has been a part of the Marine Corps’ ethos for more than 238 years. 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment held true to this standard during their annual training here, June 1 – 11.
Continue reading "“Lone Star” battalion maintains readiness during annual training" »
May 20, 2014
Marine Corps awards medal for heroism to local Reserve Marine
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.
Continue reading "Marine Corps awards medal for heroism to local Reserve Marine" »
April 25, 2014
Marines explore Reserve options during road show
By Lance Cpl. Joshua R. Heins | Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point | April 25, 2014
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. --
Marines from across Cherry Point attended the career transition road show at Miller’s Landing April 15.
Continue reading "Marines explore Reserve options during road show" »
January 21, 2014
Marine recognized for providing honors to more than 1,000 fallen Marines
By Sgt. Michael Ito | U. S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | January 21, 2014
BRIDGETON, Mo. --
As any Marine can tell you, earning and upholding the title is no small feat. No matter what a Marine does in life or how long they serve in their beloved Corps, they will always uphold the honor and respect for the Marines that went before them
Continue reading "Marine recognized for providing honors to more than 1,000 fallen Marines" »
January 11, 2014
Afghan war reaches endgame
Top commanders discuss stakes, prospects in last year of NATO campaign
By Gretel C. Kovach
8:13 a.m.Jan. 11, 2014
SANGIN, Afghanistan — The NATO campaign in Afghanistan may be ending late this year, but the war is not. Insurgent strongholds will remain — 13 years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks prompted a U.S. invasion — inspiring anxiety about prospects for long-term stability and a newfound urgency among Afghan national security forces.
October 1, 2013
Wounded Marine veteran makes house a home
Story by PFC Brandon Thomas
Date Taken: 09.28.2013. | Date Posted: 09.30.2013 09:43
ELLINGTON, Conn. - Sgt. Greg Caron, a Marine veteran, was presented with a house Sept. 28 by Building Homes for Heroes, a national non-profit organization that supports men and women who have been wounded or disabled in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Wounded Marine veteran makes house a home" »
September 9, 2013
A History That Will Live On: 24th Marines
By Lance Cpl. Bradley Carrier | 9th Marine Corps District | September 09, 2013
Sept. 9, 2013 -- The 24th Marine Regiment unit colors along with its prestigious history were cased to pave the way for Combat Logistics Regiment 4 during a deactivation and activation ceremony at the unit’s headquarters Sept. 8. The actions resulted from the three year Force Structure Review Group which announced the decision in 2012, in order to accomplish the best realignment and utilization of forces within the Marine Corps, said Lt. Col. Michael Myers, regimental inspector-instructor of the new unit.
Continue reading "A History That Will Live On: 24th Marines" »
August 29, 2013
Marines to hike 81 miles over Labor Day weekend to honor Fallujah heroes
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.
Continue reading "Marines to hike 81 miles over Labor Day weekend to honor Fallujah heroes" »
August 13, 2013
Back to basics: Marines of Co. F and G, 2/24 practice crucial marksmanship fundamentals
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.
June 18, 2013
Saluting a soldier’s last march
By Karla Peterson
6 p.m.June 18, 2013
They are separated by many years and multiple wars, but when 26-year-old Michael Contee presented 96-year-old Imel Willis with a pin and a plaque to commemorate his years of service, the young Marine Corps reservist and the World War II Army vet were a united front. One nation under the call of duty.
June 8, 2013
Basilone Award winner honored to join 'reconnaissance legends'
By Dan Lamothe
Staff writer
Jun. 8, 2013 - 12:09PM
A recent Silver Star recipient has earned another major award, becoming the first Marine reservist to receive the Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone Award for Courage and Commitment.
Continue reading "Basilone Award winner honored to join 'reconnaissance legends'" »
June 6, 2013
MAG-49 Marines ‘hustle’ 53s to Pacific
Story by Staff Sgt. David Carbajal
06.06.2013 16:04
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – Marines of Marine Aircraft Group 49 departed their home station at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst May 30-31, 2013, for a deployment to the Pacific as part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ resumption of the Unit Deployment Program.
May 11, 2013
Ind. Marine's family mark decade since his death
The Herald Bulletin/AP
Published: May 11, 2013
ANDERSON, Ind. -- Family and friends of a U.S. Marine from Indiana who died in a 2003 Humvee crash in Kuwait marked the 10th anniversary of his death by gathering for a somber memorial at his gravesite
Continue reading "Ind. Marine's family mark decade since his death" »
April 24, 2013
Marines Ice Fish With Inupiaq Native Alaskans
By Cpl Marcin Platek
April 24, 2013
KOTZEBUE, Alaska - A small group of uniformed men made their way across what seemed to be an endless white desert, their gloves and beanies did little to break the bitter-cold wind hitting their already pink faces and blue fingers. In front of them was a massive body of frozen water; behind them, a long workday.
Continue reading "Marines Ice Fish With Inupiaq Native Alaskans" »
April 17, 2013
Canceled Moroccan exercise upends Marines’ deployment
By Kent Miller, Staff writer
Apr. 17, 2013 - 02:22PM
Hundreds of Marines with Task Force African Lion have suddenly been left with a lot less to do after Morocco abruptly canceled the huge annual exercise on Tuesday, just days after the Marines arrived.
Continue reading "Canceled Moroccan exercise upends Marines’ deployment" »
April 10, 2013
Marine awarded Bronze Star Medal for actions during OEF
Story by Cpl. Marcin Platek | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 04.10.2013
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - 1st Sgt. Anthony J. Velarde, the first sergeant with 1st Civil Affairs Group, Force Headquarters Group, Marine Forces Reserve, was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device during a ceremony here, March 11.
Continue reading "Marine awarded Bronze Star Medal for actions during OEF" »
March 8, 2013
Marines, soldiers, sailors prepare for African Lion 2013
Story by Lance Cpl. Jackeline Perez Rivera | Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune | Date: 03.08.2013
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - The parade deck outside of 2nd Longshoreman Platoon’s home at Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, became a Moroccan port for a short time on the weekend of Feb. 8. Vehicles carrying minor or feigned cargo passed through the gates and, with the help of Marines, soldiers and sailors, navigated checkpoints and obstacles the service members could face in the upcoming US African Command and Morocco annual training exercise, African Lion 2013.
Continue reading "Marines, soldiers, sailors prepare for African Lion 2013" »
March 5, 2013
Unmanned aerial vehicle squadron starts training at Pendleton
By Sgt. Christopher Duncan | Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton | March 05, 2013
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Marine Unmanned Vehicle Squadron 4 conducted its first field training exercises at Camp Talega since the unit’s official move here from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. The unit held its first change of command between Lt. Col. Kyle J. Moore and Lt. Col. Matthew C. Shortal on Feb. 22, symbolizing the squadron's official move from Yuma to Camp Talega, here.
Continue reading "Unmanned aerial vehicle squadron starts training at Pendleton" »
February 28, 2013
Inspired by a WWII Hero
Story by Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 02.28.2013
NEW ORLEANS - What makes Sgt. Delshayne John stand out from his fellow Marines at Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans isn’t the fact that he rose through the ranks to be meritoriously promoted to sergeant in less than three years.
February 22, 2013
Translators help Marines, JGSDF understand each other for Exercise Iron Fist 2013
Story by Lance Cpl. Demetrius Morgan | 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 02.22.2013
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - "Translate this for me," is what Marines and Sailors often said when working with members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force during Exercise Iron Fist 2013.
February 8, 2013
Delco-Based US Marine Battalion Returns Home From Afghanistan
February 8, 2013 3:59 PM
By Steve Tawa
FOLSOM, Pa. (CBS) — About two dozen local members of the US Marine Forces Reserve got a big welcome home today from their families and friends at the Marines Recruiting Center in Folsom (Delaware County).
Continue reading "Delco-Based US Marine Battalion Returns Home From Afghanistan" »
December 2, 2012
The few, the proud, the very busy Marines behind Toys for Tots
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.
Continue reading "The few, the proud, the very busy Marines behind Toys for Tots" »
November 28, 2012
Marines prepare to deploy and train African partner nations
By Cpl. Jessica Ito | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | November 28, 2012
NEW ORLEANS --
More than 130 Marines from 32 different Reserve training centers came together at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. last month to get to know each other and prepare to face the unique challenges presented by operating independently in Africa.
Continue reading "Marines prepare to deploy and train African partner nations" »
November 21, 2012
Kentucky Marines return home from Afghanistan deployment
By Cpl. Nana Dannsa-Appiah | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | November 21, 2012
FORT KNOX, Ky. --
The Marines of Company E, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, returned home to their friends and families Nov. 15 after a six-month deployment to Afghanistan, marking the end of an era for the 4th Marine Division and the Marine Corps Reserve.
Continue reading "Kentucky Marines return home from Afghanistan deployment" »
November 13, 2012
Toys for Tots putting smiles on the faces of children since 1947
By Pfc. Norman Eckles | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | November 13, 2012
BARSTOW, Calif. -- In December 1947, Maj. Bill Hendricks, United States Marine Corps Reserve, and a group of Marine reservists collected and distributed more than 5,000 toys to children in low income families throughout the city of Los Angeles, thus sparking the idea of the Toy for Tots program.
Continue reading "Toys for Tots putting smiles on the faces of children since 1947" »
November 5, 2012
My unit is going away... Now what?
By Cpl. Nana Dannsa-Appiah | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | November 05, 2012
BILLINGS, Mont. --
Marines from 2nd and 3rd Platoon, Company D, Anti-Terrorism Battalion, 4th Marine Division, listened to their future options to continue serving in the Marine Corps. Their infantry company is being transformed into a military police company.
October 31, 2012
Marines help save 14 New Yorkers trapped by Hurricane Sandy
Story by Cpl. Michael Ito | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 10.31.2012
NEW YORK - Winds, close to 80 mph, whipped the 14-foot floodwaters through the streets of New York Monday night as Hurricane Sandy bore down on the city. During the height of the storm, a detective from the New York Police Department approached the duty noncommissioned officer of 6th Communications Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group in Brooklyn, N.Y., and requested assistance for a rescue operation.
Continue reading "Marines help save 14 New Yorkers trapped by Hurricane Sandy" »
October 29, 2012
Unit Deployment Program provides Marines with valuable skills
By Cpl. Michael Ito | U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve | October 29, 2012
NEW ORLEANS --
Gunnery Sgt. Raoul P. Sheridan has deployed before. He’s been to the cities and deserts of Iraq, where he provided fire support for Marines. But his last deployment was unlike any other.
Continue reading "Unit Deployment Program provides Marines with valuable skills" »
October 13, 2012
WWII Purple Heart presented to family
By Mark Wineka - The Salisbury Post via AP
Posted : Saturday Oct 13, 2012 11:55:46 EDT
CHINA GROVE, N.C. (AP) — Lynn White Polasit never knew her Uncle Olin. He lost his young life with 163 other crew members who went down with the USS Drexler May 28, 1945, just northwest of Okinawa.
September 9, 2012
More than 1,400 US, allied Marines, soldiers build legacy in Florida
Story by Master Sgt. Chris Cox | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 09.09.2012
CAMP BLANDING, Fla. - What do you get when you take hundreds of professionals from 9 different countries and put them in the same location? In the military, it’s called “multi-lateral partnership.”
Officially, it’s called Partnership of the Americas 2012.
Continue reading "More than 1,400 US, allied Marines, soldiers build legacy in Florida" »
August 27, 2012
Marine Corps reservists returning Wednesday from Afghanistan
Journal Star
Posted Aug 27, 2012 @ 10:05 PM
PEORIA —
Dozens of Peoria County U.S. Marine Corps reservists who deployed earlier this year to Afghanistan are scheduled to return home Wednesday.
Continue reading "Marine Corps reservists returning Wednesday from Afghanistan" »
August 12, 2012
Marines given tragic lessons on desert
Written by
Drew Schmenner
The Desert Sun
1:09 AM, Aug 12, 2012
Every year, approximately 44,500 troops train in the stark, sweltering desert at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms. Many have been Marines preparing for deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan.
July 15, 2012
Active-duty and reserve Marines storm the desert for war games
Conduct exercise called Javelin Thrust exercise at Twentynine Palms
Written by
Nathan Max
12:01 a.m., July 15, 2012
The Marine Corps couldn’t have picked a more challenging environment for one of its largest and most important exercises of the year.
Continue reading "Active-duty and reserve Marines storm the desert for war games" »
July 13, 2012
Reservists visit MCAGCC for Javelin Thrust
Story by Lance Cpl. D. J. Wu | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms | Date: 07.13.2012
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - More than 5,000 Marines came to in the Combat Center’s training area from Marine Forces Reserve and I Marine Expeditionary Force to participate in Large Scale Exercise-1/Javelin Thrust 2012 from July 2 through July 12.
Continue reading "Reservists visit MCAGCC for Javelin Thrust" »
TRAP mission prepares reservists for combat
Story by Lance Cpl. Ali Azimi | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms | Date: 07.13.2012
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - The roar of the propellers above the helicopter was deafening. A screech rang throughout the hull, where eight Marines and the flight crew sat. Their only form of communication was hand signals, but those sitting side-by-side had the luxury of screaming into each other’s ears, hoping the message was comprehended down the row of seats.
Continue reading "TRAP mission prepares reservists for combat" »
July 12, 2012
Marines teach riot control techniques to West African nations
Story by Sgt. Tatum Vayavananda | U.S. Marine Forces Africa | Date: 07.12.2012
THÍES, Senegal – Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment are spending the next couple of weeks with joint forces from various West African nations to train and exchange their shared experiences of non-lethal weapons and crowd-control tactics as part of Exercise Western Accord 2012, July 11.
Continue reading "Marines teach riot control techniques to West African nations" »
July 10, 2012
Marines, West African partners kick off Exercise Western Accord 2012
Story by Cpl. Tatum Vayavananda | U.S. Marine Forces Africa | Date: 07.09.2012
Date Posted:07.10.2012 07:06
THIES, Senegal - Approximately 600 U.S. Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen, along with about 600 African partner-nation troops, officially kicked off Exercise Western Accord 2012, with a combined-forces opening ceremony, July 9.
Continue reading "Marines, West African partners kick off Exercise Western Accord 2012" »
June 22, 2012
US Marines work with Latvians during mortar missions at Saber Strike 2012
6/22/2012 By Sgt .Ray Lewis , Marine Forces Reserve
ADAZI, Latvia — Marine mortarmen of 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment worked with the Latvian army during a recent mortar firing training exercise at Saber Strike 2012.
Continue reading "US Marines work with Latvians during mortar missions at Saber Strike 2012 " »
June 20, 2012
Reserve Marine instructs Caribbean veterans in Barbados
Story by Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 06.20.2012
CHRIST CHURCH, Barbados – Twenty seven-year-old Sgt. Andrew Mercer spoke loudly, gesturing with his hands as he fluctuated between two groups of students. The two platoons that flanked him, law enforcement and defense veterans from various Caribbean islands, directed their attention to the lead instructor, Mercer, and his five assistant instructors.
Continue reading "Reserve Marine instructs Caribbean veterans in Barbados" »
June 19, 2012
Training the trainer: Reserve Marines share proven tactics with Caribbean troops
Story by Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 06.19.2012
CHRIST CHURCH, Barbados - On a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a handful of Marines from Headquarters Company, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, participated in training with a coalition of law enforcement and defense personnel from a host of Caribbean nations June 16 during Exercise Tradewinds 2012.
June 17, 2012
Military families the focus of fallen Marine family brunch
Story by Cpl. Chelsea Flowers | Marine Week | Date: 06.17.2012
CLEVELAND - Chloe Knight is almost 8 years old. She has her father’s eyes, a contagious smile and will talk your ear off. Like most little girls, her daddy is her hero. But unlike most kids, Chloe has never met her dad.
Continue reading "Military families the focus of fallen Marine family brunch" »
June 14, 2012
Sixteen Marines come home from Afghanistan, joyful to see family and remembering one who didn’t return
By Hana Engroff
Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Ashley Owens burst into tears when she saw U.S. Marine Sgt. Arthur Ramirez on Thursday. She hadn’t seen him in seven months — and any doubts the 14-year-old from Jupiter had about seeing him again were gone.
May 24, 2012
One stop morale shop: Warfighter Exchange Services Team travels throughout Helmand Province
Story by Sgt. John Jackson | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 05.24.2012
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – “Whenever anybody sees the PX truck, that is all you hear about – people saying ‘Oh, the PX truck is here,’” said Lance Cpl. Cody Turner, a combat engineer with 9th Engineer Support Battalion. “It’s definitely a morale booster for all the Marines at the [Forward Operating Bases].”
April 27, 2012
Marines and Norwegians open caves to test Marine Corps Prepositioning Program during Exercise Cold Response
Story by Lance Cpl. Marcin Platek | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 04.27.2012
TRONDHEIM, Norway—Of the U.S. Cold War assets, six caves and two storage facilities in central Norway exist as if a part of an action-movie film set. However, they are part of a remote Marine Corps program known as the Marine Corps Prepositioning Program-Norway.
April 18, 2012
8th Engineer Support Battalion mentors reservists during raft operations
4/18/2012 By Sgt. Justin J. Shemanski , 2nd Marine Logistics Group
CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — A portion of the New River adjacent to Camp Lejeune was home to an afternoon of raft operations hosted by the Marines of 8th Engineer Support Battalion’s Bridge Company, April 17.
Continue reading "8th Engineer Support Battalion mentors reservists during raft operations " »
April 14, 2012
Family accepts Bronze Star for fallen Marine
Texan awarded medal posthumously at Ellington Field
By Lindsay Wise
Updated 10:00 p.m., Saturday, April 14, 2012
Rows of Marines snapped to attention at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base Saturday afternoon to honor the bravery of a 26-year-old staff sergeant from Arlington who lost his life in Afghanistan last year.
Continue reading "Family accepts Bronze Star for fallen Marine" »
April 11, 2012
Morocco trip a boon for Reserve Marines
By Gina Cavallaro - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Apr 11, 2012 6:11:14 EDT
Marine reservists have taken the lead in Morocco for African Lion, a 10-day joint exercise that partners Moroccan military forces with their American counterparts.
Continue reading "Morocco trip a boon for Reserve Marines" »
April 1, 2012
Drawdown could mean change for some reservists
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Apr 1, 2012 10:57:57 EDT
The looming drawdown in Afghanistan spells uncertainty for reservists on active duty. Their deployments will become increasingly unpredictable, and they could find themselves with a new mission or unexpected demobilization orders, according to Marine administrative message 146/12.
Continue reading "Drawdown could mean change for some reservists" »
March 25, 2012
Fort Worth-based 14th Marine Regiment to train with Moroccan military
By Chris Vaughn
[email protected]
Posted Sunday, Mar. 25, 2012
FORT WORTH -- The Fort Worth-based 14th Marine Regiment, on a steady diet of Iraq and Afghanistan deployments for eight years, is readying itself for yet another deployment to a Muslim country.
Continue reading "Fort Worth-based 14th Marine Regiment to train with Moroccan military" »
March 24, 2012
Norway exercise preps Marines for cold combat
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Mar 24, 2012 9:45:12 EDT
A group of reservists recently trekked into the Arctic Circle to prepare for international conflict. Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marines, out of Terre Haute, Ind., deployed to Norway for exercise Cold Response 2012.
Continue reading "Norway exercise preps Marines for cold combat" »
Reserve Marines come together, accomplish mission in Afghanistan
3/24/2012 By Sgt. John Jackson , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Of the more than 200 Marines that make up General Support Motor Transport Company, Marine Air-Ground Task Force Support Battalion 11.2, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), all but six are Reserve Component Marines.
Continue reading "Reserve Marines come together, accomplish mission in Afghanistan " »
February 18, 2012
2012 Marine Corps trials prove to be a milestone in 1/23 Marine’s road to recovery
Story by Cpl. Lucas Vega | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 02.18.2012
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - At the archery range for the 2012 Marine Corps Trials, Lance Cpl. Christopher Crump straddles the firing line on a leg that once shattered, finds his natural respiratory pause with lungs that were once collapsed, sights in on his bow with an eye that was once dangling from its socket, and speaks and writes words that he could not temporarily say and scribe, due the tragic event of Aug. 16, 2011.
February 9, 2012
Happily home
Marines are welcomed back after six months in Afghanistan
By Winston Ross
The Register-Guard
February 9, 2012
SPRINGFIELD — Twin fire engines sat on opposite sides of Pierce Parkway on Wednesday, their ladders outstretched, a giant American flag draped from a wire strung between them and flapping in the drizzle.
Nawa: the essence of progress
Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 02.09.2012
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Afghanistan – Extensive improvements in Nawa district and exceptional Afghan leadership has transformed the once improvised explosive device-laden area into a peaceful paragon of progress during the last year. Residents walk casually along roads and waterways, confident in local Afghan security forces to keep them safe. The growth of illegal drugs has been nearly eradicated as citizens have begun to see the benefits of growing legal crops. Interest in education is on the rise, ensuring a brighter future for the people of Nawa. The people are happy, healthy and hopeful.
February 7, 2012
Marines welcomed home from Afghanistan
73 members of Bridge Company Alpha
By Marc Thompson
Updated: Tuesday, 07 Feb 2012, 11:18 PM EST
Published : Tuesday, 07 Feb 2012, 4:38 PM EST
BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (WOOD) - After being deployed for almost a year, 73 members of the Marine Corps Reserve returned to Battle Creek Tuesday afternoon.
January 13, 2012
Wounded Marine Surprises Comrades As They Return Home From War
By BILL LEUKHARDT, [email protected] The Hartford Courant
12:24 a.m. EST, January 13, 2012
CHICOPEE, Mass.—
— The sight of a young man with a USMC tattoo on his right forearm, standing with the help of two canes next to a wheelchair, was the big treat Thursday night for a group of Connecticut-based Marines returning from Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Wounded Marine Surprises Comrades As They Return Home From War" »
January 12, 2012
Marines to return early to Devens from Afghanistan
01/12/2012 4:30 PM
By Bryan Bender, Globe Staff
WASHINGTON -- About 550 Marines based at Fort Devens will be returning three months early from Afghanistan tonight as part of the gradual drawdown of American forces.
Continue reading "Marines to return early to Devens from Afghanistan" »
December 25, 2011
... And another day on the job in Afghanistan
By O’Ryan Johnson
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas will be another work day for local U.S. Marines deployed in Afghanistan — driving supplies, standing watch or patrolling the deadly Helmund province that has been their home since May.
Continue reading "... And another day on the job in Afghanistan" »
December 23, 2011
What is Task Force Belleau Wood
Story by Cpl. Timothy Solano | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 12.23.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Maintaining an area of operations comparable to the size of New York City and neighboring boroughs is a full time job for the service members of Task Force Belleau Wood, who have held down Camp Leatherneck and its surrounding area since the unit arrived in early 2011.
December 15, 2011
Jupiter mother: Marine reservist killed in Afghanistan 'lived by faith'
By Cynthia Roldan
Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Updated: 7:52 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2011
Posted: 6:13 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011
Two U.S. Marines knocked on Kathleen Bischoff's door in Jupiter Wednesday morning, there to inform her that her only son, Maj. Sam Griffith, had been shot and killed in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Jupiter mother: Marine reservist killed in Afghanistan 'lived by faith'" »
December 1, 2011
Marine Corps Reserves’ Dunkin’ Donuts Toys for Tots Train Hits the Rails for 2011 Run
Published: 12/01 2:08 pm
From Dunkin Donuts:
The Marine Corps Reserves’ Dunkin’ Donuts Toys for Tots Train, presented by Canadian Pacific Railway, will make its annual run across New York to deliver gifts to thousands of children in need. The train’s run is the result of a $25,000 contribution from Dunkin’ Donuts to the Toys for Tots Foundation.
November 30, 2011
Elite Marines crucial to 2014 Afghanistan exit
By Robert Burns - The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Nov 30, 2011 17:33:50 EST
PUZEH, Afghanistan — In this dusty village in southern Afghanistan a small team of elite U.S. Marines is nudging Afghans toward rejection of the Taliban insurgency, a mission that is emerging as central to the U.S. and NATO exit strategy but is little known beyond the rugged brown hills of the upper Helmand River Valley.
Continue reading "Elite Marines crucial to 2014 Afghanistan exit" »
November 29, 2011
Pup adopted by Marines in Afghanistan dies
By RENÉE C. LEE, HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Published 07:21 p.m., Tuesday, November 29, 2011
A mutt rescued this summer in Afghanistan by a Houston-based Marine reserve platoon won't be reunited with his adoptive family as planned.
Continue reading "Pup adopted by Marines in Afghanistan dies" »
November 26, 2011
New England’s Own delivers Thanksgiving dinner to Patrol Base Boldak
Story by Cpl. Katherine Keleher | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 11.26.2011
PATROL BASE BOLDAK, Afghanistan – In the barren desert of Helmand province, Marines with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, thought their Thanksgiving was going to be just another day. It was not.
Continue reading "New England’s Own delivers Thanksgiving dinner to Patrol Base Boldak" »
November 10, 2011
Toys for Tots launches as the holiday season approaches
Story by Lance Cpl. Marcin Platek | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 11.10.2011
NEW ORLEANS – As Halloween decorations come down, some stores start preparing for Christmas early. From sales to giveaways, Christmas fever is spreading. For the Marines it means something else: there are toys to be collected.
Continue reading "Toys for Tots launches as the holiday season approaches" »
RCT-5 command delivers birthday tradition to southern Helmand
Story by Lance Cpl. Alfred V. Lopez | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.10.2011
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Around this time of the year, most Marines are shining their shoes, taking their ‘Blues’ to the cleaners and making sure they have their ticket and date to the ball.
Continue reading "RCT-5 command delivers birthday tradition to southern Helmand" »
October 25, 2011
Detection team sharpens skills, protects Marines from IED threat
Story by Lance Cpl. Alfred V. Lopez | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 10.25.2011
CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Afghanistan – Maintaining a Marine’s warfighting skills requires rigorous practice and steadfast dedication. Training doesn’t stop, not even in a combat zone.
Continue reading "Detection team sharpens skills, protects Marines from IED threat" »
October 23, 2011
Life on Patrol Base Boldak: The routine of Weapons Co., 1st Bn., 25th Marines
Story by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 10.23.2011
PATROL BASE BOLDAK, Afghanistan – A horde of flies swarms above Cpl. James Baker’s head. They repeatedly swoop down and buzz around his face. He quickly swats one away, only to swat another moments later.
Continue reading "Life on Patrol Base Boldak: The routine of Weapons Co., 1st Bn., 25th Marines" »
October 20, 2011
Marines bypassed on LRA mission in Africa
By Dan Lamothe and Tony Lombardo - Staff writers
Posted : Thursday Oct 20, 2011 11:18:49 EDT
A 130-man team of Force Reconnaissance Marines deploying to Africa this month will not be involved in a high-profile mission to advise Ugandan troops as they push to stamp out the violent Lord’s Resistance Army.
Continue reading "Marines bypassed on LRA mission in Africa" »
October 18, 2011
Marines accompany Afghan district governor during meeting at Camp Leatherneck bazaar
10/18/2011 By Cpl. Bryan Nygaard , II MEF (FWD)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — On the northern end of Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, just outside of the perimeter, sits a shantytown by the name of “Soak City.” This hub of tents surrounding a gas station consists of several hundred Afghans who have moved there so they can sell various wares to Afghan contractors and civilians visiting Camp Leatherneck.
October 15, 2011
On patrol with New England’s own
Story by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 10.15.2011
PATROL BASE BOLDAK, Afghanistan – The sound of diesel engines fills the morning air at Patrol Base Boldak. Several Marines rush into a large metal storage container used to store food. They grab a handful of packaged muffins, Pop Tarts, energy drinks and bottles of Gatorade and stuff them into backpacks. They then throw on their body armor and climb into armored vehicles. In a few moments they will drive several miles to a nearby village. There, a long day of foot patrols through irrigated fields and dusty farmland awaits them, but for now – breakfast.
OIA crowd greets Marines returning from war in Afghanistan
By Eloísa Ruano González, Orlando Sentinel
8:43 p.m. EDT, October 15, 2011
A hundred people gathered at the Orlando International Airport on Saturday to celebrate the safe return of seven U.S. Marine reservists returning from duty in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "OIA crowd greets Marines returning from war in Afghanistan" »
October 10, 2011
Reserve mission expands, despite the drawdown
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Oct 10, 2011 7:23:21 EDT
While the Marine Corps faces fiscal uncertainty and a drawdown looms for the active-duty force, the Reserve is poised to continue offering opportunity and adventure. And it’s actively seeking non-commissioned officers and junior officer in several career fields.
Continue reading "Reserve mission expands, despite the drawdown" »
October 6, 2011
Marine's death touched region, reminds all of military's sacrifice
By NEWS SENTINEL EDITORIAL BOARD
Posted October 6, 2011 at 4 a.m.
Frankie Watson could have been any young East Tennessean.
Continue reading "Marine's death touched region, reminds all of military's sacrifice" »
October 4, 2011
Pup adopted by Marines bound for Houston ball
By RENÉE C. LEE, HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Published 07:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 4, 2011
An orphaned puppy turned Marine mascot soon will make his way from Afghanistan to the United States to be reunited with his platoon - just in time for the Marine Corps ball in November.
Continue reading "Pup adopted by Marines bound for Houston ball" »
October 1, 2011
Marine's widow eternally grateful for ring's return
Her husband didn’t return from Afghanistan, but his platoon made sure the symbol of their love did
By LINDSAY WISE, HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Updated 10:59 p.m., Saturday, October 1, 2011
Sgt. Jared Hammonds frantically scanned an Afghan poppy field, searching for a glint of silver in the soil.
Continue reading "Marine's widow eternally grateful for ring's return" »
September 28, 2011
Marines to return Saturday
11:27 PM, Sep. 28, 2011
Written by
From Staff Reports
Local Marine reservists who deployed to Afghanistan late last year will return home Saturday, spokesmen for the local unit say.
September 25, 2011
Family and friends remember Monroe County Marine killed in Afghanistan
21-year-old Lance Corporal Franklyn Watson, from Vonore, was killed in action in Afghanistan.
Posted: 6:14 PM Sep 25, 2011
Reporter: Kate Burgess
VONORE, Tenn. (WVLT)--A local Marine from Vonore is dead, killed in action in Afghanistan. Lance Corporal Franklyn "Frankie" Watson was with the 1/6 Alpha Company 2nd Marine Division sweeping for IED's when his unit was attacked. Watson was 21 years old.
Continue reading "Family and friends remember Monroe County Marine killed in Afghanistan" »
September 22, 2011
Coalition forces deny insurgency movement, money in Afghanistan
9/22/2011 By Cpl. Brian Adam Jones , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan —
Military experts have long-deemed limiting the enemy’s movement as vital to an effective campaign.
Continue reading "Coalition forces deny insurgency movement, money in Afghanistan " »
September 19, 2011
Program aids wounded reserve Marines
9/19/2011 By Aquita Brown , Wounded Warrior Regiment
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va., (Sept 19, 2011) — Marine reservists who are combat wounded, injured stateside or fall ill while in a duty status can be assured that they will have someone on their side. Mark Brokaw, who works at the Wounded Warrior Regiment here, wants reserve Marines to know this. Brokaw works at the Regiment as the program manager for the Reserve Medical Entitlements Determination section. Unique to the Marine Corps, the Wounded Warrior Regiment has an RMED section that tracks and manages the non-medical and medical care of wounded, ill and injured reserve Marines.
September 13, 2011
'New England’s Own’ arrives in Afghanistan, prepares for operations
9/13/2011 By Cpl. Bryan Nygaard , II MEF (FWD)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province — During the first week of September, Marines with 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, a reserve infantry battalion based out of the New England area, conducted integration training aboard Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Continue reading "'New England’s Own’ arrives in Afghanistan, prepares for operations " »
September 3, 2011
New center to train Marine motorcyclists
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Sep 3, 2011 9:56:22 EDT
Marine Forces Reserve has a new $1 million motorcycle safety training center in New Orleans, complete with a track, 12 motorcycles, and state-of-the-art simulators.
Continue reading "New center to train Marine motorcyclists" »
August 31, 2011
More Active-Reserve billets open for Marines
Story by Lance Cpl. David Flynn | Marine Corps Recruiting Command | Date: 08.31.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. - With more and more Marines opting to remain in the Corps, the re-enlistment process is becoming increasingly competitive. Marine Corps Recruiting Command’s Active-Reserve Program offers Marines another chance to stay in and experience a side of the Corps that many don’t know exists.
Continue reading "More Active-Reserve billets open for Marines" »
August 9, 2011
Lone Star Marines guide Afghan soldiers to new battlespace
Story by Cpl. Adam Leyendecker | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 08.09.2011
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Marines with the Houston-based 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, also known as the Lone Star Battalion, provided security and guidance to Afghan National Army soldiers traveling through Helmand province, Aug. 5
Continue reading "Lone Star Marines guide Afghan soldiers to new battlespace" »
August 7, 2011
Javelin Thrust 2011 comes to another successful close
Story by Lance Cpl. Frans Labranche | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 08.07.2011
NEW ORLEANS – Once a year, Reserve Marines from across the country are sent to America’s deserts and mountains to train and remain ever-ready for deployment to the barren lands of countries overseas.
Continue reading "Javelin Thrust 2011 comes to another successful close" »
August 4, 2011
Latin roots help ‘Carlos’ Company Marines succeed in Helmand
Story by Cpl. Adam Leyendecker | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 08.04.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Through the course of the recent Iraq wars, and now in Afghanistan, Company C, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, has literally grown up together, using their experiences from back home to unite and strengthen them on the battlefield.
Continue reading "Latin roots help ‘Carlos’ Company Marines succeed in Helmand" »
August 3, 2011
In the ‘DIRT’: Reserve Marine’s ‘extreme humanitarianism’ takes him around the world
Story by Sgt. Tyler Hlavac | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 08.03.2011
NEW ORLEANS – When a humanitarian crisis occurs overseas, many Americans contribute to disaster relief by writing a check. Cpl. Adam Marlatt contributes by strapping a pack on his back, gathering his team and plunging headfirst into the disaster zone.
July 30, 2011
Texas battalion’s good neighbor policy helps keep Helmand base secure
Story by Staff Sgt. Jeremy Ross | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 07.30.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marines and sailors with the Houston-based Lone Star Battalion, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, have been conducting security and counterinsurgency operations in the vicinity of the Camp Leatherneck-Camp Bastion complex since deploying to Afghanistan in January.
Continue reading "Texas battalion’s good neighbor policy helps keep Helmand base secure" »
July 27, 2011
Where the Marines and the antelope play: Marines share South African training area with herds of blesbok, springbok
Story by Cpl. Jad Sleiman | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 07.27.2011
GRAHAMSTOWN, South Africa - Just about every night around dusk, two opponents meet in the open fog.
Marines adapt for the future in Javelin Thrust exercise
July 27, 2011
The future of the Marine Corps may be playing out in the mountains of Bridgeport, Calif., and the flatlands of nearby Hawthorne, Nev.
Continue reading "Marines adapt for the future in Javelin Thrust exercise" »
July 26, 2011
Jo’burg born Marine returns to South Africa for exercise
Story by Cpl. Jad Sleiman | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 07.26.2011
PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa - There’s the English spoken in South Africa, and then there’s the English spoken in Southern California.
Continue reading "Jo’burg born Marine returns to South Africa for exercise" »
July 24, 2011
Marines of 3/23 navigate mountainous terrain during Operation Javelin Thrust
7/24/2011 By Cpl. Andrew Thorburn , Marine Forces Reserve
MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER BRIDGEPORT, Calif. — With today’s technology, most people can flip out a cell phone and find their position in a minute, but when the batteries die, Marines pull out the compasses and paper maps to complete their missions.
Continue reading "Marines of 3/23 navigate mountainous terrain during Operation Javelin Thrust " »
July 21, 2011
After tour, Reservists' mental health may suffer
By Amy Norton
NEW YORK | Thu Jul 21, 2011 4:03pm EDT
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Reservists returning from Iraq or Afghanistan may have more trouble adjusting to life at home than full-time soldiers do -- and that can take a toll on their mental well-being, a UK study finds.
Continue reading "After tour, Reservists' mental health may suffer" »
July 16, 2011
Lone Star Battalion probes for enemy during Operation Frank Jr.
Story by Cpl. Adam Leyendecker | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 07.16.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marines with the Houston-based Lone Star Battalion, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, Task Force Belleau Wood, pushed through south Habib Abad in Nad’ Ali District, Helmand province, and linked up with troops from Task Force Helmand during Operation Frank Jr., July 13
Continue reading "Lone Star Battalion probes for enemy during Operation Frank Jr." »
July 15, 2011
Largest Marine Corps Reserve exercise of the year scheduled to commence
Courtesy Story | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 07.15.2011
NEW ORLEANS - More than 5,000 Marines from Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Corps active component units will participate in the largest Marine Corps Reserve exercise of the year at several locations throughout the Western United States July 17-31.
Continue reading "Largest Marine Corps Reserve exercise of the year scheduled to commence" »
July 8, 2011
3d CAG Marines awarded Bronze Star
Story by Sgt. Marcy Sanchez | I Marine Expeditionary Force | Date: 07.08.2011
Two Marines with 3d Civil Affairs Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, received Bronze Stars during an awards ceremony, July 1.
Marine puts Hollywood music career on hold to serve in Afghanistan
Story by Cpl. Katherine Keleher | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 07.08.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Whether Sgt. Sean Castaneda is recording an album in Hollywood, Calif., or providing imagery intelligence to troops on the ground in the desert of southern Afghanistan, serving his country while pursuing his music dreams are just another day.
Continue reading "Marine puts Hollywood music career on hold to serve in Afghanistan" »
June 27, 2011
Marines move into new home in New Orleans
Story by Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 06.27.2011
NEW ORLEANS – Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North’s new 411,320 square-foot home on the west bank of the Mississippi River officially dedicated during a ribbon cutting ceremony here June 27.
Continue reading "Marines move into new home in New Orleans" »
World War II to Afghanistan: Rocket scientist, third generation Marine serves in Helmand province
6/27/2011 By 1st Lt. Megan Greathouse , II MEF (FWD)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Every Marine has a story. For one Reservist currently serving in Helmand province the story is of a rocket scientist who answered the call to serve his country as a third generation Marine.
June 22, 2011
Marine Duo Powers Up Area of Operations
Story by Cpl. Marco Mancha | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 06.22.2011
FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The typical American may wake up, drink their coffee along with a small nutritious breakfast, and then head out the door to their nine to five job, with expectations of being home by six p.m. every evening. Life is much different for two Marines attached to the 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment.
Continue reading "Marine Duo Powers Up Area of Operations" »
Ballistic Underwear Make Their Way to Marines in Afghanistan
Story by Cpl. Marco Mancha | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 06.22.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Once you get past the humor of “ballistic underwear,” the threat it helps mitigate is real and the protection is necessary.
Continue reading "Ballistic Underwear Make Their Way to Marines in Afghanistan" »
June 13, 2011
Tent liners bring cool relief
June 13th, 2011
by Gina Cavallaro
Patrol Base Boldak, Afghanistan – A casual conversation with an infantryman, who’s had a few deployments here and in Iraq, reveals a happy history of heat, cold and general discomfort along the lines of “I lived in my vehicle for seven months.”
June 8, 2011
Marines say goodbyes before heading to the Middle East
11:05 PM, Jun. 8, 2011
Written by
Derek Redd
Members of Echo Company, Antiterrorism Battalion, 4th Marine Division sat with family and loved ones around tables outside the Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center on Roberts Avenue. The mood was quiet, with laughter sometimes breaking through the hot June air.
Continue reading "Marines say goodbyes before heading to the Middle East" »
BDAF Marines protect Leatherneck, declare 'Protect This House or Die Trying: Not on our Watch'
Story by Lance Cpl. Katherine M. Solano | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 06.08.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - Thousands of people rely on the security parameters in place on Camp Leatherneck to keep them safe as they go about their daily business of running units, planning sustainment missions for Afghan communities, holding shuras with Afghan government figures and maintaining a sense of normalcy in a battle-ridden area of operation.
June 6, 2011
Task Force Belleau Wood Marines Hone Shotgun Skills During Range Training
Story by Lance Cpl. Katherine M. Solano | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 06.06.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- Training does not stop just because Marines are forward deployed. It is the goal of many companies to continue to hone their Marines’ skills on various weapons systems in between operational commitments and offensive missions.
Continue reading "Task Force Belleau Wood Marines Hone Shotgun Skills During Range Training" »
May 23, 2011
Reserve leads growing Black Sea mission
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Monday May 23, 2011 8:30:23 EDT
Marine reservists are at the helm of what is the largest multinational training exercise in Europe — and it’s still growing, with future opportunities for half-year stints overseas.
Continue reading "Reserve leads growing Black Sea mission" »
May 16, 2011
14th Marines arrive in Morocco, take lead of U.S. participation in Exercise African Lion 2011
5/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah , Marine Forces Africa
AGADIR, Morocco — Marines of Headquarters Battery, 14th Marine Regiment, a reserve unit from Fort Worth, Texas, assumed command of American forces participating in Phase II of Exercise African Lion 2011 during a ceremony here May 15.
May 12, 2011
Top Shot: What it takes to be among the best shooters in the Reserves
5/12/2011 By Lance Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah , Marine Forces Reserve
PARK CITY, Ky. — For some Reserve Marines’ travel opportunities can be limited as they have to spend one weekend a month drilling at their local base. Additionally, their opportunities to practice marksmanship can be even more limited having to pack all their annual training into one weekend a month and two weeks a year.
Continue reading "Top Shot: What it takes to be among the best shooters in the Reserves" »
May 6, 2011
Marines get sendoff to Afghanistan - with video
Friday, May 6, 2011
By JAKE BERRY
Staff Writer
LONDONDERRY – Dozens of unopened presents line the rafters in the garage of Abbie Finn’s Hudson home.
Continue reading "Marines get sendoff to Afghanistan - with video" »
April 20, 2011
4th MAW in search of qualified flight instructors
Story by Lance Cpl. Nana Dannsaappiah | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 04.20.2011
NEW ORLEANS – The 4th MAW Marine Corps Reserve Flight Instructor Program Selection Board is aimed at employing the most qualified Reserve or active duty naval aviators and naval flight officers as flight instructors.
Continue reading "4th MAW in search of qualified flight instructors" »
April 18, 2011
Face of Defense: Marine Becomes Top Cook
By Marine Corps Cpl. Jad Sleiman
Marine Forces Reserve
NEW ORLEANS, April 18, 2011 – Marine Corps Sgt. Daniel Evans didn’t see himself working in a kitchen when he first became interested in the Marines, but food service specialist was the only job available.
Continue reading "Face of Defense: Marine Becomes Top Cook" »
April 17, 2011
U.S. Marine Reserves leave Joliet for Afghanistan deployment
By Bob Okon [email protected] Apr 17, 2011 02:29AM
JOLIET — Forty-six Marines left Joliet on their way to Afghanistan on Friday knowing they had support back home.
Continue reading "U.S. Marine Reserves leave Joliet for Afghanistan deployment" »
April 15, 2011
Amos touts Reserve law enforcement unit
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Apr 15, 2011 17:31:56 EDT
The Marine Corps plans to stand up specialty Reserve battalions including one dedicated to law enforcement, said Commandant Gen. Jim Amos during a speech Friday in downtown Washington.
Continue reading "Amos touts Reserve law enforcement unit" »
April 10, 2011
Grand Rapids Marine Reserve members, likely bound for Afghanistan, greeted with breakfast after training
Published: Sunday, April 10, 2011, 10:32 AM
GRAND RAPIDS - The local Marine Corps League organized a welcome-home breakfast this morning for some 150 Marine Reserve members of Grand Rapids-based Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines.
April 8, 2011
4th MAW Marines and VMGR-452 recognized for outstanding achievement
4/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Zach Altemus , Marine Forces Reserve
NEW ORLEANS — Two Marines and one squadron from 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve are scheduled to receive awards from the Marine Corps Aviation Association May 19-21 for outstanding achievements conducted during 2010.
Continue reading "4th MAW Marines and VMGR-452 recognized for outstanding achievement" »
April 5, 2011
Marine comes home from Afghanistan, meets son for first time
5:38 AM, Apr. 5, 2011
Written by
L.B. Whyde
Advocate Reporter
NEWARK -- A Newark Marine has many reasons to be thankful for his homecoming after a first tour of duty in Afghanistan, but his return also meant getting to hold his son for the first time.
Continue reading "Marine comes home from Afghanistan, meets son for first time" »
March 28, 2011
Reserve Marines assist 1st MAW in support of Japan aid
Story by 2nd Lt. Lindsay Pirek | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.28.2011
NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan – Marines from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 234 (VMGR-234), Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, the “Rangers,” assisted the Marines of III Marine Expeditionary Brigade Aviation Command Element in support of Operation Tomodachi here March 11-27.
Continue reading "Reserve Marines assist 1st MAW in support of Japan aid" »
March 25, 2011
1/23 March Newsletter
3/25/2011
By 1/23 March Newsletter , 1st Battalion (1/23)
March 25, 2011 —
On March 2, 1836, men from around Texas gathered at Washington-on-the-Brazos to formally sever ties with Mexican dictator Santa Anna by signing Texas’ Declaration of Independence.
March 23, 2011
Marine platoon returns from Afghanistan
Published : Wednesday, 23 Mar 2011, 6:31 PM EDT
* George Richert
* Posted by: Eli George
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Military families have waited a year for this day. Marines have just returned home to the Porter Avenue naval station from a long tour of duty in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Marine platoon returns from Afghanistan" »
March 19, 2011
3/25 hands over widespread authority to 1/23
Story by Cpl. Brian Gabriel Jr. | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 03.19.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – The Marines of 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment officially took over a wide variety of operations throughout Helmand province from 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment during a transfer of authority ceremony here, March 19.
Continue reading "3/25 hands over widespread authority to 1/23" »
March 18, 2011
Civil Affairs Group looks to alternative power in Now Zad
Courtesy Story | ISAF Joint Command | Date: 03.18.2011
KABUL, Afghanistan – The civil affairs team, from 4th Civil Affairs Group attached to Regimental Combat Team 8, are investigating a way to produce green energy for the citizens of Now Zad District, Helmand province.
Continue reading "Civil Affairs Group looks to alternative power in Now Zad" »
March 16, 2011
War fighter by day, Ground fighter by night:Reserve Marine is Professional MMA fighter.
3/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Fenton Reese, Marine Forces Reserve
CAMP BLANDING, Fla. — A common reference among Marines is they are “lean, mean war fighting machines.” So, it is appropriate that one Marine would take that a step further.
March 14, 2011
Marines attend Dr. Seuss Day celebration at elementary school
Story by Pfc. Joseph Altemus | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 03.14.2011
Six Marines from Marine Forces Reserve Headquarters participated in the Dr. Seuss Day celebration at Sarah T. Reed Elementary School, March 2.
Continue reading "Marines attend Dr. Seuss Day celebration at elementary school" »
March 10, 2011
Here Comes the Boom: Marines of 4th Tank Battalion pull, push, engage their way through four final qualification tables of .50-caliber machine gunnery
Story by Lance Cpl. Fenton Reese | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 03.10.2011
CAMP BLANDING, Fla. - Expended brass casings littered the ground giving an illusion that the dirt was paved gold.
Another day on the range had come to an end for the Marines of 4th Tank Battalion, Headquarters and Service Company, Detachment 4.
March 7, 2011
Riot Games: Richcreek vs. Sylvain
Story by Cpl. Tyler Hlavac | Tradewinds 2011 | Date: 03.06.2011
Date Posted: 03.07.2011 11:50
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda – When the rioters first hit the defender’s lines, there is a brief moment of disorder and confusion as dozens of screaming protestors throw bottles, kicks, punches and taunts at the defenders. The defenders step back, quickly reorganize their lines and begin to slowly move forward, pushing the aggressors back with shields, batons and oleoresin capsicum spray. The confrontation is loud, messy, aggressive, chaotic and over within minutes as the defenders snatch up the riot leader, bringing an end to the hostilities.
March 4, 2011
Active Reserve program offers options for Marines
3/4/2011 By Lance Cpl. David Flynn , Marine Corps Recruiting Command
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Some Marines discovered this year that they were unable to reenlist and retain their military occupational specialty. There is an option for Marines who want to stay in the Marine Corps besides changing their MOS. The Active Reserve (AR) program is looking for highly qualified active component Marines that want to reenlist and serve full-time.
Continue reading "Active Reserve program offers options for Marines" »
February 28, 2011
Houston's Lone Star Battalion heads to Afghanistan
Posted by Lindsay Wise with the Houston Chronicle
February 28, 2011 10:14 AM
Houston's 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment has begun the long journey to Afghanistan.
Last week, more than 800 Marines and Navy corpsmen who serve in 1/23 -- also known as 'The Lone Star Battalion' -- started to depart Camp Pendleton in California, where they've been training since November, and headed overseas on the first leg of their trip. They will spend seven months in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Houston's Lone Star Battalion heads to Afghanistan" »
Police training in Zabul: The first six weeks
Story by Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson | Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul | Date: 02.28.2011
ZABUL PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- Part 1: In-Processing
As the recruits stepped off the bus in Zabul province, five Afghan Uniform Police officers were there to great them.
Continue reading "Police training in Zabul: The first six weeks" »
February 26, 2011
3/2 Civil Affairs rolls in heavy
Story by 2nd Lt. Timothy Irish | Regimental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division | Date: 02.25.2011
Date Posted: 02.26.2011 04:02
NOW ZAD, Afghanistan - When a new unit rotates into Afghanistan much of the turnover of information can be placed neatly into a book for easy reading. However, personal relationships forged by time cannot simply be signed over. This is the challenge a new civil affairs unit faces.
February 15, 2011
Remembering a hero
February 15, 2011 - By DAVE EMKE Special to the OBSERVER
JAMESTOWN - Aaron Swanson had a smile that could light up any room, brighten any day and bring joy to everyone he knew.
February 11, 2011
Deployed Marines go hands-on with foreign weapons
Story by Sgt. Jeremy Ross | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 02.11.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Every Marine is expected to have at least a basic knowledge of the standard U.S. military arsenal, but after a hands-on session with foreign weapons at the Joint Security Academy Southwest, Feb. 11, about a dozen Marines from various units based here now know a little bit about AK-47 assault rifles, PKM machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades, too.
Continue reading "Deployed Marines go hands-on with foreign weapons" »
February 10, 2011
4th MAW Chili Cook-Off Heats Up
2/10/2011 By Lance Cpl. Fenton Reese , Marine Forces Reserve
NEW ORLEANS — An aroma of meats, sauces, spices and seasonings filled the air. With wide eyes and grumbling stomachs, Marines and civilians of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing gathered here for the second annual 4th MAW Chili Cook-Off, Jan. 26.
February 6, 2011
Marines, USAID offer alternatives to farmers in Marjah
Story by Cpl. Megan Sindelar | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 02.06.2011
FORWARD OPERATING BASE MARJAH, Afghanistan – With the planned delivery of 70,000 saplings, Marines from team 1, detachment 3, 3rd Civil Affairs Group, are offering farmers around Marjah, Afghanistan, an alternative to growing illegal crops.
Continue reading "Marines, USAID offer alternatives to farmers in Marjah" »
February 5, 2011
Marjah CMOC making a difference in Afghan’s lives
Story by Cpl. Megan Sindelar | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 02.05.2011
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marines working at the Civil Military Operations Center in Marjah have improved Afghan lives during the few short months they have been in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Marjah CMOC making a difference in Afghan’s lives" »
February 3, 2011
Iwo Jima veteran visits Afghan-bound battalion
Courtesy Story | 1st Marine Division | Date: 02.03.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- In late 1944, based on casualty estimates and the inevitable need for replacement officers in the war against Japan, the U.S. Marine Corps convened a special Officer Candidates School at Camp Lejeune, N.C. Four hundred officers were trained, commissioned, and rushed to the Pacific Theater of Operations. Half would be sent to Iwo Jima in Feburary 1945, the remainder would serve on Okinawa beginning in April 1945.
Continue reading "Iwo Jima veteran visits Afghan-bound battalion" »
February 1, 2011
Bloodlines strong within 1/23
2/1/2011 By Cpl. Lucas Vega , Marine Forces Reserve
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Ten Marines with 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment were given the opportunity to shine in the spotlight when a CNN crew visited Camp Pendleton, Calif., Jan. 25.
January 27, 2011
Hispanic roots strong in 1/23
Story by Cpl. Lucas Vega | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 01.27.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - “Charlie” is the letter C in the proper military phonetic alphabet, and is used by all other units throughout the Marine Corps for Company C. But for years one unit has been commonly referred to as Carlos Company. This common Hispanic name has been unofficially adopted by Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment.
January 19, 2011
Polishing perishable skills: 4th Force Recon Marines dive to train, increase proficiency
Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 01.19.2011
MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, WAIMANALO, Hawaii — The gentle whirr of F470 Combat Rubber Raiding Craft motors cuts through the wind as it moves across the unsettled waters off Oahu’s coast. Relentless rains have turned the water a murky gray, yet its emerald glow slowly reappears as the sun breaks through the clouds.
January 11, 2011
1/23 prepares for Afghanistan deployment
Courtesy Story | 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.11.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Marines and sailors with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment took part in infantry immersion training Jan. 11-12, as the battalion continues preparations for an upcoming six-month deployment to Afghanistan.
Continue reading "1/23 prepares for Afghanistan deployment" »
Marines' fitness means endurance on battlefield
Story by Cpl. Steven Posy | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 01.11.2011
SAN DIEGO -- Approximately 50 runners from Marine Corps installations around the world raced on a five-mile course for the All-Marine Cross Country championship, held here, Jan. 8.
Continue reading "Marines' fitness means endurance on battlefield" »
January 10, 2011
1/23 trains to counter IED’s
Courtesy Story | 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.10.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Behind the screens of virtual simulators sit Marines equipped not with M4 semi-automatic rifles or M203 grenade launchers, but a video game controller, designed to train the Marines of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, on countering improvised explosive devices Jan. 10 at Camp Pendleton, Calif.
January 3, 2011
Faces and Places - Afghanistan
Monday, January 03, 2011
The pictures speak for themselves......
January 1, 2011
Marines Marry At Times Square New Year's Eve
Updated: Saturday, 01 Jan 2011, 8:24 AM CST
Published : Saturday, 01 Jan 2011, 8:24 AM CST
(NewsCore) - Two US Marines exchanged wedding vows during Friday night's New Year's celebrations in the heart of New York's Times Square, as thousands of screaming revelers looked on.
Continue reading "Marines Marry At Times Square New Year's Eve" »
December 23, 2010
For Lima Company, Holidays Away From Home Are Bittersweet
Hardest-Hit Unit From Iraq War Deploys to Afghanistan, Leaving Families Behind Again
By CHRISTINE ROMO, TERI WHITCRAFT and JENNIFER METZ
Dec. 23, 2010
The Marines of Lima Company, a reserve unit from Columbus, Ohio, understand war is not just fought on the front lines. Their unit was the hardest hit in the Iraq War -- in 2005, they lost 23 men and over 40 were wounded. Now, five years later, Lima Company has been called to serve again, deploying this time to Helmand Province, Afghanistan -- a Taliban stronghold -- leaving their families behind.
Continue reading "For Lima Company, Holidays Away From Home Are Bittersweet" »
December 21, 2010
For the Families News Letter #2
12/21/2010
By 1stLt Jeffrey L. Williford ,
1st Battalion (1/23)
Camp Pendleton, Ca.
NEWSLETTER #2
For the second time since terrorists ruthlessly attacked our homeland on September 11, 2001, the Marines of 1st Battalion, 23d Marines have left behind their civilian jobs, their college textbooks, beloved family members to again answer the call of a grateful nation, and to stand up against those who would threaten democracy and our very way of life.
I MEF receives ‘tons’ of mail during holiday season
Story by Sgt. Shawn Coolman | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 12.21.2010
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Spending the holidays away from family is a routine occurrence for many service members, but during the holiday season, receiving a package from a loved one is a welcomed distraction.
Continue reading "I MEF receives ‘tons’ of mail during holiday season" »
December 16, 2010
Frontline photos 12/16/2010
Sgt. Artur Shvartsberg / Marine Corps
Marines with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines and 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines evacuate an Afghan National Army soldier out of Forward Operating Base Jackson in Sangin, Afghanistan, on Dec. 6.
December 15, 2010
Marine helps less fortunate in U.S., Afghanistan
Story by Sgt. Shawn Coolman | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 12.15.2010
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Staff Sgt. Cary Anderson is a Marine who shows devotion to both the community and the Marine Corps, by his actions home and abroad.
Continue reading "Marine helps less fortunate in U.S., Afghanistan" »
December 14, 2010
Love for a 'shelter dog' eases family's, fiancée's pain over dead Marine Sgt. Nicholas Aleman
Michael Daly
Tuesday, December 14th 2010, 4:00 AM
War is when 24-year-old Brooklyn Marine Sgt. Nicholas Aleman is killed in Afghanistan the same day his fiancée gets the flowers he sent for her 23rd birthday.
December 11, 2010
Job gives marine more family time, less deployment risk
by Megan Eckstein @ The Frederick News-Post
December 11, 2010 - 8:10am
For Maj. Lawrence Lowman, taking command of the Marine company in Frederick was not only a good opportunity to advance his career but also a much-appreciated break from deployments to take care of his young family.
Continue reading "Job gives marine more family time, less deployment risk" »
December 9, 2010
HMH-462 gives 1/23 a lift
Courtesy Story | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 12.09.2010
Faces in a squad of Marines seated in a CH-53E “Super Stallion” broke into smiles as the helicopter chopped through the sky. This was the first flight in a helicopter for many of the Texas-based reserve Marines onboard
December 8, 2010
Family mourns death of Sgt. Nicholas Aleman, 24, a Brooklyn Marine killed in Afghanistan
BY Jake Pearson and Larry Mcshane
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITERS
Wednesday, December 8th 2010, 4:00 AM
A Brooklyn-born Marine sergeant was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan, leaving his devastated family to face Christmas without their beloved hero.
Marine from B'klyn killed
By KATE SHEEHY
December 8, 2010
A young Marine who grew up in a military family in Brooklyn was killed by a suicide bomber — ambushed while sleeping in an encampment in Afghanistan, said US officials and the man’s stunned family yesterday.
Peoria-based Marines returning from Afghanistan
By ANDY KRAVETZ ([email protected])
Journal Star
Posted Dec 07, 2010 @ 11:09 PM
Last update Dec 08, 2010 @ 12:29 AM
PEORIA —
A handful of Peoria County-based U.S. Marine Corps reservists are expected to return home Wednesday after spending several months in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Peoria-based Marines returning from Afghanistan" »
December 5, 2010
Infantry automatic rifle is Afghan-bound
By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Dec 5, 2010 19:10:24 EST
Five units will soon deploy with the new M27 infantry automatic rifle, a 5.56mm weapon that may one day replace the M249 squad automatic weapon. A total of 458 rifles will be delivered by the gun’s maker, Heckler and Koch, and meted out to five battalions working up for deployments to Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Infantry automatic rifle is Afghan-bound" »
December 1, 2010
First Lady Welcomes Marine Families to White House
By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2010 – First Lady Michelle Obama today welcomed Marine Corps families to the White House for an event that highlighted the Toys for Tots charity and allowed military children to make holiday crafts with the first lady.
Continue reading "First Lady Welcomes Marine Families to White House" »
Marines, families prepare for deployment in Middletown
By LARRY HIGGS • STAFF WRITER • December 1, 2010
MIDDLETOWN — The sound of a lone bagpiper cut through the night along with the soft slapping sound of canvas duffle bags being loaded by Marines into a bus bound for Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
Continue reading "Marines, families prepare for deployment in Middletown" »
November 30, 2010
Breathless: Marine medically discharged after lung collapses in boot camp returns to earn the title
11/30/2010 By Lance Cpl. Jad Sleiman , Marine Forces Reserve
NEW ORLEANS — Lance Cpl. Matt McGuiness’ lowest point wasn’t the day his left lung sprung a leak and deflated inside his chest as he waited outside a chow hall during recruit training. It wasn’t the day he watched his platoon graduate without him as he waited on an evaluation board that would eventually medically discharge him. It wasn’t the day he woke up screaming in agony and alone in a Virginia intensive care unit after his pain killers failed post-surgery.
November 29, 2010
Marine doing 'something great' with her life
The Plumstead woman is part of a special unit serving in Afghanistan.
By: CHRISTINA KRISTOFIC
Bucks County Courier Times
November 29, 2010 02:07 AM
Most nights this year, Angela Pacheco has slept in her clothes and combat boots on a cot in a small plywood cabin or other makeshift shelter.
Continue reading "Marine doing 'something great' with her life" »
Marine lauded for heroic act
Injured Friday while collecting for charity at Augusta Best Buy
By Susan McCord
Staff Writer
Monday, Nov. 29, 2010
A Marine stabbed while collecting Toys for Tots said he thought of all the people inside Best Buy on crowded Black Friday when he tried to intercept a fleeing shoplifter.
November 27, 2010
Marine reservist stabbed while collecting toys
The Associated Press
Posted : Saturday Nov 27, 2010 8:53:07 EST
AUGUSTA, Ga. — A Marine reservist collecting toys for children was stabbed Friday when he helped stop a suspected shoplifter in eastern Georgia.
Continue reading "Marine reservist stabbed while collecting toys" »
November 23, 2010
Knox Marines welcomed home after seven months in Afghanistan
Delta Company thankful to be back in time for holidays
* By Matt Lakin
* Knoxville News Sentinel
* Posted November 23, 2010 at midnight
Maj. Nathan Opie held his month-old son Dominic for the first time Monday night.
Continue reading "Knox Marines welcomed home after seven months in Afghanistan" »
November 14, 2010
Embedded: Life outside of the wire
By Kelly Koopmans / KVAL News
Story Published: Nov 14, 2010 at 6:00 PM PST
EUGENE, Ore. -- It’s a rare moment, but when the battlefield goes quiet, Marines in Marjah, Afghanistan wonder when the enemy will strike.
November 12, 2010
Embedded: 'I did the best I could to show you what is going on there'
By Kelly Koopmans KVAL News
Story Published: Nov 12, 2010 at 10:49 PM PST
EUGENE, Ore. -- When a mission ends and the sun sets, Marines 7,000 miles from the Unites States call Camp Marjah in Marjah, Afghanistan, home.
Continue reading "Embedded: 'I did the best I could to show you what is going on there'" »
November 10, 2010
Portal Helps Vets, Reserves, Guardsmen Land Jobs
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2010 – Just in time for Veterans Day, a new, state-of-the-art Web portal is being rolled out tomorrow to help veterans – as well as reserve-component members, their families and wounded warriors – land jobs with civilian employers who value their military experience.
Continue reading "Portal Helps Vets, Reserves, Guardsmen Land Jobs" »
November 7, 2010
Hub Marine earns Bronze Star for Afghan work
By Natalie Sherman
Sunday, November 7, 2010
A Boston man who spent nine months leading Marines in building Afghan infantry units capable of standing up to the Taliban was awarded the Bronze Star on Friday as the Marine Corps celebrated its 235th birthday at Fort Devens.
Continue reading "Hub Marine earns Bronze Star for Afghan work" »
CP10 Marines, Sailors assess Hurricane Tomas impact
Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force
Story by Cpl. Daniel Negrete
Date: 11.07.2010
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – On the morning of Nov. 6, Marines and sailors aboard the USS Iwo Jima flew over Haitian soil to assess the damage caused by Hurricane Tomas in support of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti and the government of Haiti.
Continue reading "CP10 Marines, Sailors assess Hurricane Tomas impact" »
November 5, 2010
Area Marine Reserve unit saddling up
'Lone Star Battalion' to train first in California, then go to Afghanistan
By LINDSAY WISE
HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Nov. 5, 2010, 8:09AM
A Marine Reserve battalion headquartered in Houston has been mobilized for deployment to Afghanistan, Marine officials announced Thursday.
November 4, 2010
Slain Marine remembered at memorial service
11/4/2010 By Lance Cpl. Lucas Vega , Marine Forces Reserve
MARINE FORCES RESERVE, New Orleans — Family, service members and fellow Marines gathered at the Belle Chasse chapel to pay respect to the late Sgt. Ryan Lekosky Nov. 3.
Continue reading "Slain Marine remembered at memorial service" »
November 3, 2010
Bossier City Marine reservists to leave next week
From Staff Reports • November 3, 2010
Monday will be bittersweet for members of Bravo Co., 1/23rd Marines, the reserve unit headquartered in Bossier City.
Continue reading "Bossier City Marine reservists to leave next week" »
November 2, 2010
Marine Sgt. stabbed to death after Marine Corps Ball, in NOLA
* November 2nd, 2010 9:23 am ET
Deployed for a year to Al Asad, Iraq, with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron-29, Sgt. Ryan Lekosky was murdered in the French Quarter of New Orleans early Sunday morning.
Continue reading "Marine Sgt. stabbed to death after Marine Corps Ball, in NOLA" »
November 1, 2010
Texas Marine dies defending his wife in French Quarter
He was fatally stabbed after a formal Marine Corps ball
By DANE SCHILLER
HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Nov. 1, 2010, 8:01PM
A Marine from Texas survived combat in Iraq only to be murdered in the French Quarter — stabbed to death even as he wore his dress-blue uniform complete with battle commendations pinned to his chest.
Continue reading "Texas Marine dies defending his wife in French Quarter" »
October 27, 2010
Parents of LAPD officer killed by bomb had feared for his safety
As a Marine reservist disarming roadside bombs in Afghanistan, Joshua Cullins knew he had one of the most dangerous jobs on Earth. He died just two days before he was to be reassigned.
By Bob Pool, Los Angeles Times
October 27, 2010
He was only two days away from being reassigned to a base camp administrative job after spending six months in Afghanistan disarming roadside bombs.
Continue reading "Parents of LAPD officer killed by bomb had feared for his safety" »
October 26, 2010
The Recipe for High Morale
Story by Lance Cpl. Lucas Vega | Marine Forces Reserve | Date: 10.26.2010
FORT WORTH, Texas - Nine multi-tasking Marines scurry back and forth between food preparation tables and burners in the field mess kitchen. The stoves are filled to the brim with enough Creole chicken, rice and cornbread to feed nearly 150 Marines with Headquarters Battery, 14th Marine Regiment. Each food service Marine, assigned a different task, works against the clock to prepare enough food to satisfy the Marines’ hungry stomachs.
October 25, 2010
Oregon Marines hit by IEDs in Taliban hotspot
By Cali Bagby for KVAL.com
Story Published: Oct 25, 2010 at 5:13 PM PDT
EN ROUTE TO COMBAT OUTPOST SHIR GHAZAY, Afghanistan - “Everyone make sure their helmets and seatbelts are on," says Cpt Ryan Bumgardner, 29, of Hood River, Ore., "and the doors are locked.”
Continue reading "Oregon Marines hit by IEDs in Taliban hotspot" »
Program Fills Gap for Returning Guard, Reserve
By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2010 – Though the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program has eased the post-deployment process for thousands of Guard and Reserve members and their families over the past two years, officials are hoping thousands more take advantage of the Defense Department program in the coming months, the program’s executive director said.
Continue reading "Program Fills Gap for Returning Guard, Reserve" »
October 18, 2010
'More grunts are going home alive because of what you are doing'
By Cali Bagby for KVAL.com
Story Published: Oct 18, 2010
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - “It’s like 'Field of Dreams' - build it and they will come,” says LtCol Ted Adams to Oregon Marines as they sit on benches - and in the dirt - of Afghanistan.
Continue reading " 'More grunts are going home alive because of what you are doing'" »
October 14, 2010
Kansas marines return from Afghanistan
October 14, 2010|By Rebecca Gannon | KWCH 12 Eyewitness News
(WICHITA, Kan.) — Eight Marines deployed for seven months arrived in Kansas just after five Thursday evening.
October 7, 2010
Lejeune-based Marine dies in Afghanistan
October 07, 2010 6:02 PM
DAILY NEWS STAFF
A Camp Lejeune-based Marine died this week in Afghanistan, according to the Defense Department.
Continue reading "Lejeune-based Marine dies in Afghanistan" »
Duck fan in Afghanistan: 'Keep it up, Chip Kelly'
By Cali Bagby for KVAL.com with KVAL.com staff
Story Published: Oct 7, 2010
Multimedia reporter Cali Bagby caught up with the 2nd Squad, 1st Platoon of Alpha Company of the 6th Engineer Support Battalion based out of Springfield, Ore., in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Duck fan in Afghanistan: 'Keep it up, Chip Kelly'" »
Reserve US marines drill for frontlines of Afghanistan
By Michel Moutot
(AFP) – Oct. 7, 2010
RED BANK, New Jersey — On an open field in this suburb of New York City, scores of men in military fatigues are put through their combat paces, hurling fake grenades and dodging imaginary bullets.
Continue reading "Reserve US marines drill for frontlines of Afghanistan" »
October 2, 2010
Fallen sailors and Marines honored at dedication of eagle statue memorial
By SCOTT CANON
The Kansas City Star
Posted on Sat, Oct. 02, 2010 10:15 PM
Through the songs and the speeches about fallen Marines and sailors, through a moment of silence filled by the sounds of flags snapping in the wind and fighter jets thundering overhead, Mary Donahue dabbed at her eyes with a tissue.
Continue reading "Fallen sailors and Marines honored at dedication of eagle statue memorial" »
September 30, 2010
VMU-4 casts Shadow over Yuma
9/30/2010 By Cpl. Austin Hazard , Marine Corps Air Station Yuma
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. — The Corps’ newest unmanned aerial vehicle squadron debuted its capabilities with the maiden flight of one of its RQ-7B Shadow aircraft at the Barry M. Goldwater Range east of the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 29, 2010.
September 28, 2010
MATTHEWS DEPLOYS TO AFGHANISTAN
September 28, 2010
COSHOCTON -- Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dennis R. Matthews, a 2004 graduate of Coshocton High School, Coshocton, alongside 800 fellow Marines attached to the 3rd Battalion 25th Marines(3/25), stationed in Moundsville, W.Va., recently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
September 26, 2010
Three Marines deployed
September 26, 2010
MOUNDSVILLE, W. Va. -- Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Hallman, Pfc. Adam C. Smith and Lance Cpl. Jonathan C. Walker are among 800 Marines attached to the 3rd Battalion 25th Marines stationed in Moundsville that have recently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
September 25, 2010
Judge honored for his 27 years in the Marines
Judge David Johnson took off his black robe Friday and for the last time in an official capacity donned one of the garments he has loved even more for the past 27 years — in this instance it was the green-and-khaki service uniform of a United States Marine.
By: Mark Stodghill , Duluth News Tribune
Published September 25 2010
Judge David Johnson took off his black robe Friday and for the last time in an official capacity donned one of the garments he has loved even more for the past 27 years — in this instance it was the green-and-khaki service uniform of a United States Marine.
Continue reading "Judge honored for his 27 years in the Marines" »
September 17, 2010
3rd LAAD transfers authority to 3/25
Regional Command Southwest
Story by Sgt. Shawn Coolman
Date09.16.2010
Date Posted:09.17.2010 04:27
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan— Third Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion turned over responsibilities to 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, in a transfer of authority ceremony here, Sept. 16.
September 15, 2010
Emotions Run High During Marines' Homecoming
NORTH VERSAILLES (KDKA)
Sep 15, 2010 11:03 pm US/Eastern
The family of a Marine killed in combat traveled to the Pittsburgh area to be on hand when his company returned home.
Continue reading "Emotions Run High During Marines' Homecoming" »
Marines focus on building new Afghan nation
By Gretel C. Kovach
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 7:17 p.m.
MARJAH, Afghanistan — Capt. Stan Lee patrols his corner of Helmand Province with a loaded rifle like every other Marine. But he has never had to use it. Here in one of the most combative areas of southern Afghanistan, Lee has another weapon — U.S. dollars.
Continue reading "Marines focus on building new Afghan nation" »
September 11, 2010
Combined Endeavor Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony
110th Public Affairs Detachment
Story by Sgt. Peter Ramaglia
Date 09.11.2010
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – Members of the 6th Communication Battalion, a Marine Corps Reserve unit out of Brooklyn, N.Y., participating in Combined Endeavor, remembered, Sept. 11, with a ceremony at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Grafenwoehr, Germany today.
Continue reading "Combined Endeavor Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony" »
August 23, 2010
Four Marines awarded Purple Heart for their sacrifice
8/23/2010
By Lance Cpl. Michelle S. Mattei,
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. —
Four Marines were added to the Purple Heart’s list of heroes injured during battles in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Four Marines awarded Purple Heart for their sacrifice" »
August 21, 2010
Remote camp is Marines' key toehold in Afghanistan
Marines offer Afghans what the Taliban cannot, but security is top priority
By Gretel C. Kovach, UNION-TRIBUNE
Originally published August 21, 2010 at 6:23 p.m
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Dust billows from the roads of this military base at all hours, during sun-baked desert days and hot windy nights.
Continue reading " Remote camp is Marines' key toehold in Afghanistan" »
August 16, 2010
Rocker's gift is music to Marines families' ears
by JOSHUA SUDOCK
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Published: Aug. 15, 2010
Updated: Aug. 16, 2010 1:09 a.m.
Motivated by a love for the men and women of the armed forces and a passion for rock n' roll, more than 100 people gathered at Tortilla Jo's restaurant in Anaheim Sunday to support the families of Sgt. Maj. Robert Cottle and Lance Cpl. Rick Centanni, two Yorba Linda Marines who lost their lives in Afghanistan earlier this year.
Continue reading "Rocker's gift is music to Marines families' ears" »
August 15, 2010
Remembering the bravery of Selfridge's 22 Marines
BY NAOMI R. PATTON
FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER
Posted: Aug. 15, 2010
Twenty-two U.S. Marines from the 1st Battalion 24th Marine Reserve, based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, who died during their seven-month tour in Iraq were honored Saturday with a granite memorial bearing their names dedicated in Canton's Heritage Park.
Continue reading "Remembering the bravery of Selfridge's 22 Marines" »
August 14, 2010
Knoxville-based Marine killed in Afghanistan
A Knoxville-based Marine has died after being wounded in Afghanistan.
Reporter: Nick Bona
Email Address: [email protected]
Aug 14, 2010
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – A Knoxville-based Marine has died after being wounded in Afghanistan.
Continue reading " Knoxville-based Marine killed in Afghanistan" »
August 12, 2010
New memorial honors fallen Marines
By Darrell Clem • OBSERVER STAFF WRITER • August 12, 2010
In a somber, patriotic tribute to fallen U.S. Marines who died in Fallujah, Iraq, a new memorial will be dedicated during a ceremony set for 3 p.m. Saturday at the Canton Veterans Memorial Wall in Heritage Park.
Fallen Marine remembered as jokester, athlete, friend
Regimental Combat Team-7, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs
Date Posted:08.12.2010
Story by Staff Sgt. Luis Agostini
MARJAH, Afghanistan – A memorial service for Lance Cpl. Abram L. Howard was held at the Marjah District government center in Marjah, Afghanistan, Aug. 12.
Continue reading "Fallen Marine remembered as jokester, athlete, friend" »
August 1, 2010
'Ajax' strikes chord with Marine veterans
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. • The reading of Sophocles' classic drama "Ajax" was polished and powerful.
Continue reading "'Ajax' strikes chord with Marine veterans" »
July 31, 2010
Marines get an extra 'thank you' with fishing trip
LOUDON - The striped fishing wasn't great in the waters just below Ft. Loudoun Dam.
Continue reading "Marines get an extra 'thank you' with fishing trip" »
July 29, 2010
Reserve lance cpl. dies in Helmand province
Staff report
Posted : Thursday Jul 29, 2010 14:24:48 EDT
A reserve Marine died Tuesday in Helmand province, Afghanistan, the Defense Department has announced.
Continue reading "Reserve lance cpl. dies in Helmand province" »
July 28, 2010
Oct. 21 is deadline to apply for stop-loss pay
By William H. McMichael - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Jul 28, 2010 17:18:55 EDT
Time is running out for current and former troops involuntarily held on active duty beyond their service commitments to apply for retroactive $500 monthly payments.
Continue reading "Oct. 21 is deadline to apply for stop-loss pay" »
July 20, 2010
Arctic Construction: Marines build road for new village over Alaskan tundra
NELSON ISLAND, Alaska — Marines with 6th Engineer Support Battalion, Battle Creek, Mich., are spending their summer building a future for the isolated villagers of Newtok, Alaska.
Continue reading "Arctic Construction: Marines build road for new village over Alaskan tundra" »
July 13, 2010
Life on Bourbon Street
USS NEW ORLEANS, At Sea - Naval traditions run deep in the Marine Corps. In fact, the 1775 resolution establishing the Continental Marines specifically directed recruiting efforts to focus on “good seamen, those acquainted with maritime affairs, and those who would be willing to serve at sea when requested”—those first recruits boarded the Alfred in Philadelphia to man the guns, protect the vessel and serve as infantrymen from the sea.
July 7, 2010
Marine Reserves Kickoff Exercise in Peru
ANCON, Peru - The parade deck was an elaborate mixture of both ceremonial dress and battle dress uniforms. Desert tans and woodland green camouflage patterns were each as unique as the culture and country they came from: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and the United States. Although their backgrounds, culture and uniforms are different they all have one thing in common—they are Marines.
Continue reading "Marine Reserves Kickoff Exercise in Peru" »
July 4, 2010
Marine Forces Reserve ups bonuses to $15,000
By James K. Sanborn - [email protected]
Posted : Sunday Jul 4, 2010 11:21:13 EDT
Marine Forces Reserve is now offering $15,000 re-enlistment and affiliation bonuses for Marines in selected, in-demand fields who are willing to sign a three year contract with the Selected Marine Corps Reserve.
Continue reading "Marine Forces Reserve ups bonuses to $15,000" »
July 1, 2010
Reserve Marine officer finds niche civil affairs
NEW ORLEANS — Second Lt. Christopher Banweg walked out of his staff platoon commander’s office in a state of shock in November 2000.
Continue reading "Reserve Marine officer finds niche civil affairs" »
June 28, 2010
Lima Company Memorial 'very powerful'
ZANESVILLE -- Look into Lance Cpl. Nicholas W. B. Bloem's eyes and you see trust.
Reserve Engineer Hopes to ‘Spark Some Innovation’ Against IED Threat
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Waiting outside a conference room in the Regional Command Southwest headquarters building, Cpl. Paul A. Spies passes the time by glancing at the wall adorned with wood-framed pictures of fallen brethren, many of whom were killed by improvised explosive device blasts. A few moments later, Maj. Gen. Richard Mills, commander of RC (SW), walks into the conference room already full of unit commanders. Spies waits patiently for his name to be called.
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June 24, 2010
Lima Company memorial to go on display
Chillicothe Marine among those honored
ZANESVILLE -- The Lima Company Memorial, a powerful display of paintings honoring the fallen heroes of Lima Company, including one from Chillicothe, will be in Zanesville beginning on Friday. Twenty-two Marines and a Navy Corpsman from Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, lost their lives while serving in Iraq in 2005. Among them was Lance Cpl. Aaron Reed, of Chillicothe.
June 21, 2010
Mountain Men: 1/25 Marines use Mountain Warfare Training Center to train for future Afghanistan deployment
MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, Calif. — In the mountains, the temperatures vary hourly, from hot to cold, depending on the time of day. The terrain can work against Marines; the thin air and peaks tire them and provide cover and concealment for the enemy. Communications can become spotty and they never know what is exactly waiting behind the next peak or hill.
June 8, 2010
Tankers train tenaciously in Moroccan desert during AFRICAN LION 2010 combined exercise.
TAN TAN, Morocco — In close tandem with three others, the tank rocks back on its haunches as a massive ball of flame leaps from the barrel. A split second later, the tank lurches forward, settling, as a “BOOM!” reaches the ears of bystanders, the press of the concussion is felt, and a slow cloud of dust appears in the wake of the shell. Grins cover the sunburned faces of Marines from Fox Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division.
June 4, 2010
'You Can't Beat the View:' Reserve Gunner Helps Resupply Forward Troops
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – It was a bit of a bumpy ride for Cpl. Thomas Hornor when he sat atop the turret of his Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle during a nearly eight-hour combat logistics patrol across the unpredictable terrain of the scorching Afghanistan desert.
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June 1, 2010
Hercs move Marines to southern Morocco, prepare for 2nd phase of AFRICAN LION
KENITRA, Morocco —
Reserve Marine aircrews flying KC-130 Hercules aircraft moved about 300 Marines and sailors of Task Force African Lion from the coastal Moroccan city of Agadir to a training area several hundred miles south May 28.
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Marine reserves returning from Afghanistan
A group of South Bend area Marine reservists are coming home from Afghanistan this week. 44 members of Engineering Company 'B' will arrive at the South Bend airport Friday.
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May 27, 2010
Marine reservists return to the US
Frederick 's Marine reservists are back on American soil.
May 18, 2010
Strike, stabilize, rebuild: Quantico Viper trains reserve Marines for deployment
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Marines at Quantico rolled toward a foreign town on 7-ton trucks. As they approached the perimeter an improvised explosive device took out one of the vehicles and insurgents opened fire on the Marines. The Marines dismounted and stormed the town in fire teams. Methodically they broke in and controlled each building, until the town was secure.
May 12, 2010
Hard Hit Marine Unit Deploys Again
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- An Ohio Marine Reserve unit devastated by losses in Iraq in 2005 has left for its first large-scale deployment since returning from that ill-fated mission.
May 11, 2010
Marshall County Marine reserves deploying to Afghanistan
May 11, 2010 · More than 100 Marines and U.S. Navy Reservists based in Moundsville will soon head to Afghanistan. Family, friends and community members gathered at the Marine Forces Reserve for a special send-off.
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May 10, 2010
Avon: Father finishes journey for Marine Reservist son
AVON -- A proud father of a recently-deployed Marine Reservist will stand in for his son in a unique way -- graduating from law school.
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May 9, 2010
Equipment offload kicks off Exercise African Lion ‘10
Under a blazing North African sun, U.S. Marines and Soldiers worked to offload 276 vehicles and pieces of equipment from the USS Arc in preparation for AFRICAN LION 2010 here. AFRICAN LION, a U.S. Africa Command-sponsored exercise which commences May 15, will include various types of military training to include a command post exercise, intelligence capacity building, a field training exercise with live-fire, peace operations training, aviation training, medical exchange training, as well as humanitarian civic assistance programs.
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May 7, 2010
Boston beach to be stormed by Marines
BOSTON —
The Marines are planning a full on assault at Carson Beach May 8.
They will be combining their combat elements from the air and on the ground when storming the South Boston waterfront, just to show the city how strong their force is when flexing their muscle.
May 5, 2010
Volunteers bridge a generational gap
BOSTON —
The New England Center for Homeless Veterans received a helping hand as part of Marine Week Boston’s community outreach program this week.
Marines paint mural, display Corps to Boston
Bostonians driving past Marines painting a mural showcasing the Corps’ proud values displayed their support by waving, honking and shouting motivation toward the Marines at an intersection in Hyde Park, May 5.
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Marines assist Habitat for Humanity’s mission in Boston
BOSTON —
If there’s one thing Marines are no stranger of, it’s a “working party.”
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May 3, 2010
Marines Say Goodbye To Deploy To Afghanistan
Tour Will Last 7 Months
Fifty Marines left Orlando for Afghanistan Monday morning.
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The Marines have landed … in Boston
BOSTON —
The Marines took to the land, skies to storm the city of Boston.
Marines support reservoir cleanup during water emergency
BOSTON —
A ruptured water main in the city Saturday evening shutdown all drinking water in the Boston Metropolitan area, causing city officials to reactivate Chestnut Hill Reservoir as an emergency backup supply of water.
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April 28, 2010
Savannah-based Marines prepare for deployment to Afghanistan
Local Reservists brush up on rifle skills before leaving for seven months in Afghanistan
PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. - Pop. Pop. Pop.
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April 26, 2010
Rain doesn’t hamper memorial run for Cherry Hill Marine
The day Jeremy Kane's friends and family laid him to rest in January was cold and snowy. On Sunday, when the weather was chilly and misty, they gathered once more to run two miles in his memory.
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April 22, 2010
Marine Corps Active Reserve program seeks applicants for upcoming board
The Marine Corps Active Reserve program is looking for qualified applicants for their upcoming officer accession board, which is scheduled to convene May 17.
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April 17, 2010
Marine’s running marathon to honor his fallen friend
Marine Maj. Gus Biggio will run 26.2 miles in Monday’s Boston Marathon with a friend.
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April 16, 2010
N.J. Marines Train Junior Leaders
The Marines of Company G, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, focused on the cornerstone of infantry leadership during a field exercise here, April 10.
April 14, 2010
LAPD officer killed in Afghanistan is honored in somber memorial
SWAT Officer Robert J. Cottle was on Marine Reserve duty when he died March 24 in an explosion. He was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star in services at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
A somber procession on Tuesday morning snaked its way through downtown Los Angeles as thousands honored LAPD SWAT Officer Robert J. Cottle, who was killed March 24 in Afghanistan while on Marine Corps Reserve duty.
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April 13, 2010
Landing Force Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2010 Prepares for Embarkation
The last training week before the Landing Force, participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2010, will start its embarkation on ship and set sail to their first CARAT exercise, April 12-16.
April 11, 2010
Augments Depart Iraq Early to Mentor Afghan Army
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Ten Afghan national soldiers, armed with M-16's, lie in the prone position shooting downrange while their company commander barked orders for muzzle awareness.
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April 10, 2010
Local Bazaar Stimulated by Marines
COMBAT OUTPOST CASTLE, Afghanistan- The U.S. dollar is a powerful ally in improving the local Afghan economy and the Marines quality of life.
April 8, 2010
More than 145 Marines from LF CARAT-2010 aim for black
Since stepping on the yellow foot prints at recruit training, every Marine has formed a habit of firing rifles. It's ingrained in every Marine, no matter what military occupational specialty, that knowing basic combat marksmanship fundamentals is a requirement to be in the Corps – those fundamentals must be maintained.
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April 7, 2010
Marine Fights Fires and Terrorism
Deep in the sands of Afghanistan, a Marine reservist who is also a volunteer firefighter carries out the missions placed upon him.
Military Working Dogs Aid Marines, Find Explosives
COMBAT OUTPOST CASTLE, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan -When used, military working dogs and their trainers are an immense asset to troops on the ground.
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April 1, 2010
Det. 2 Marine returns from war with Purple Heart Medal
On Christmas Day 2009, Lance Cpl. Ruben Wright awoke in a hospital bed in Afghanistan.
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March 29, 2010
MarForRes seeks select junior officers, NCOs
Slots expected to fill soon, though
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Mar 29, 2010 7:35:12 EDT
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Marine Forces Reserve is in the midst of a major recruiting drive, targeting active-duty lieutenants, captains, sergeants and staff sergeants in select career fields and offering $5,000 bonuses to some who make at least a three-year commitment.
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March 26, 2010
LAPD officer serving in Afghanistan is killed by roadside bomb
SWAT team member Robert J. Cottle, a Marine Corps reservist, is the department's first member to die in post-9/11 combat. He previously had served two tours in Iraq.
The Los Angeles Police Department on Thursday mourned its first officer to be killed in combat in Afghanistan after a roadside bomb took the life of a highly regarded SWAT team member.
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Afghan Marksmen — Forget the Fables
he recent Marine operations in and near Marja brought into sharp relief a fact that contradicts much of what people think they know about the Afghan war. It is this: Forget the fables. The current ranks of Afghan fighters are crowded with poor marksmen.
March 25, 2010
Pendleton E-9 killed in Afghanistan
The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Mar 25, 2010 21:58:29 EDT
LOS ANGELES — A Los Angeles SWAT team officer, who was on active duty as a Marine, was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan, police officials said Thursday.
March 21, 2010
Newest Taliban tactic in Marjah: IED blasts
By Heidi Vogt - The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Mar 21, 2010 8:43:10 EDT
MARJAH, Afghanistan — Explosions rumble through this former Taliban stronghold three or four times a day — an ominous sign that the insurgents have not given up despite losing control of this town to U.S. and Afghan forces about two weeks ago.
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March 20, 2010
Taliban adjust, wage bomb attacks in Afghan town
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- Explosions rumble through this former Taliban stronghold three or four times a day - an ominous sign that the insurgents have not given up despite losing control of this town to U.S. and Afghan forces about two weeks ago.
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March 19, 2010
An up close look at the military life in Marjah
-- EDITOR'S NOTE - Associated Press photographer David Guttenfelder was embedded with U.S. forces during the offensive in Marjah, Afghanistan. Here is his account of some of the photos he made of the soldiers' daily lives.
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MARJAH, Afghanistan (AP) - For months, the U.S. military had been openly saying it was getting ready to crush the Taliban in its last stronghold in Afghanistan's Helmand province - the world's opium bazaar.
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Marine patrols still meet snipers in Afghan town
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- The first shots came from the north, sending Marines ducking into the nearest ditch - some filled with putrid water. More shots rang out from the southwest: a possible ambush from two sides.
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March 17, 2010
Afghan poppy harvest is next challenge for U.S. Marines
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- U.S. Marine Sgt. Brad Vandehei stood on the edge of the small opium poppy field that serves as a central helicopter landing zone for the new military compound that's rising nearby.
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March 14, 2010
At Afghan outpost, Marines gone rogue or leading the fight against counterinsurgency?
DELARAM, AFGHANISTAN -- Home to a dozen truck stops and a few hundred family farms bounded by miles of foreboding desert, this hamlet in southwestern Afghanistan is far from a strategic priority for senior officers at the international military headquarters in Kabul. One calls Delaram, a day's drive from the nearest city, "the end of the Earth." Another deems the area "unrelated to our core mission" of defeating the Taliban by protecting Afghans in their cities and towns.
March 12, 2010
Marjah push: Ups and downs are lessons for future
EDITOR'S NOTE: Alfred de Montesquiou, an Associated Press correspondent embedded with U.S. Marines in the battle for the Afghan town of Marjah, was able to observe some of the lessons of the fighting and hear from the officers in command how they are being absorbed.
MARJAH, Afghanistan (AP) — After a day spent pinned down in gunbattles or caught in a maze of roadside bombs, with little hope of air support and an erratic Afghan army to coax along, Lance Cpl. Travis Anderson reflected on the frustrations of the campaign U.S. forces were fighting.
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March 6, 2010
Afghan Drug Trade Complicates U.S. Task in Marjah
The impetus for the U.S.-led assault on Marjah began one moonless night last May when a squad of American and Afghan anti-narcotics agents, backed by U.S. Marines, slipped through the town's empty streets and raided the Lachoya opium bazaar.
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March 3, 2010
Even His Red Squeak Toy Can't Get First Sgt. Gunner, USMC, to Fight
Despite Rehab, the Yellow Lab Won't Sniff For Bombs in Combat; He's 'a Lover'
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan—When the Marines cry "Havoc!" and let slip the dogs of war, one remains in his kennel. Quivering.
Continue reading "Even His Red Squeak Toy Can't Get First Sgt. Gunner, USMC, to Fight" »
Taliban, not drugs, focus of US-Afghan offensive
MARJAH, Afghanistan — Even by Afghan standards, it was a startling find: An opium packaging workshop, buried under donkey dung and old hay in a stable that U.S. Marines turned into a patrol base in southern Afghanistan.
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March 2, 2010
McChrystal, others visit Marja, Afghanistan, as offensive enters governing phase
MARJA, AFGHANISTAN -- The initial phase of the military offensive in southern Afghanistan to wrest Marja from insurgent control has largely ended, but the more daunting task of building a credible government in the place of Taliban rule has just begun, according to senior U.S. and Afghan officials.
McChrystal, others visit Marja, Afghanistan, as offensive enters governing phase
MARJA, AFGHANISTAN -- The initial phase of the military offensive in southern Afghanistan to wrest Marja from insurgent control has largely ended, but the more daunting task of building a credible government in the place of Taliban rule has just begun, according to senior U.S. and Afghan officials.
March 1, 2010
Taliban Flees Marjah, Threat Remains For Marines
In southern Afghanistan, U.S. Marines and their Afghan counterparts are tightening their hold on the Taliban stronghold of Marjah. Each day, troops are uncovering weapons caches left behind by Taliban fighters who ran away or are hiding among the local population.
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Improvised Explosive Device Detection Program for the Dogs
FORWARD OPERATING BASE CAFERETTA, Nimruz province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – As improvised explosive devices continue to be a threat in the region as the Taliban's weapon of choice, coalition forces continue to adapt their ways of dealing with them.
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Residents of Marjah wary of U.S. after Taliban ouster
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- One by one, the men of Marjah tentatively approached the high-ranking Afghan official with their complaints.
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MEB in Afghanistan grows to 15,000
By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Mar 1, 2010 19:25:26 EST
The Marine Corps’ footprint in Afghanistan has expanded to include 15,000 Marines, the service’s top general said, and another battalion is expected to deploy soon.
February 28, 2010
With Marja Largely Won, Marines Try to Win Trust
SEMITAY BAZAAR, Afghanistan — After the declaration this weekend that the battle for the Taliban enclave of Marja had been won, for the Marines standing behind sandbags and walking patrols, the more complicated work has begun. With it will be a test of the strategy selected by President Obama and the generals now running the Afghan war.
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Marines, Afghan troops to be stationed in Marjah
MARJAH, Afghanistan — More than 2,000 U.S. Marines and about 1,000 Afghan troops who stormed the Taliban town of Marjah as part of a major NATO offensive against a resurgent Taliban will stay for the next several months to help ensure insurgents don't return, Marine commanders said Sunday.
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February 27, 2010
Insurgents disappear as US, Afghan forces clear last areas of former Taliban stronghold Marjah
MARJAH, Afghanistan - Marines and Afghan troops who fought through the centre of Marjah linked up Saturday with American soldiers on the northern edge of the former Taliban stronghold, clearing the town's last major pocket of resistance.
Normalcy takes root in Marjah after allied offensive
By Tony Perry, Los Angeles Times
Stars and Stripes online edition, Saturday, February 27, 2010
MARJAH, Afghanistan — Just a few dozen yards from the bullet-riddled government building, Marine Brig. Gen. Larry Nicholson found more proof Saturday that the battle for Marjah was over.
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US, Afghan forces clear last parts of Taliban area
MARJAH, Afghanistan (AP) -- U.S. and Afghan forces say they have cleared the last major pocket of resistance from the former Taliban stronghold of Marjah.
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February 25, 2010
Taking It to the Taliban
Two days before launching the most ambitious military campaign of the Obama Administration, General Stanley McChrystal, commander of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, convened a meeting in Kabul of 450 tribal elders and scholars from Helmand province. The general's objective: to build support for Operation Moshtarak, a massive offensive on the Taliban stronghold of Marjah. McChrystal ran through the military phase of the plan, which would involve 6,000 U.S. Marines and British soldiers and 4,500 Afghan troops and police. Then he described how these troops would protect the town while a "government in a box" — a corps of Afghan officials who had been training for this moment for months — would start administering the town. The elders all signed off on the plan, but not before one of them warned the American general, "You have to understand that if you don't do what you say, we'll all be killed."
Chaplains help Marines cope with offensive in Afghanistan
WILMINGTON – Chaplains deployed to Afghanistan have provided support for Marines dealing with the loss of their own in recent battles. After two weeks of intense fighting in Afghanistan, an Afghan flag now flies over Marjah, a former Taliban stronghold.
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Afghan government claims Taliban stronghold
Flag-raising ceremony held as troops mop up last pockets of resistance
MARJAH, Afghanistan - The Afghan government took official control of the southern Taliban stronghold of Marjah on Thursday, installing an administrator and raising the national flag while U.S.-led troops worked to root out final pockets of militants.
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US-led troops inch close to victory in Afghan assault
MARJAH, Afghanistan : US-led troops were inching closer to declaring victory over a Taliban stronghold in southern Afghanistan as a senior commander said Wednesday militant resistance had fallen dramatically.
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Afghans displaced by Marja offensive fret in a cold limbo
At least 24,000 people have fled since the assault on the Taliban began. Each passing day is a countdown to ruin for farm families.
Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan - In wind-whipped tents, makeshift shelters and overcrowded family compounds, Afghans who fled the battleground town of Marja are asking themselves and one another: When will it be safe to go home?
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February 24, 2010
Marines Clearing Last Taliban Pockets In Marjah
More than 100 Marines and their Afghan counterparts are pushing into a neighborhood they say is the last significant stronghold of insurgents.
Marines are starting a push to clear the last pockets of Taliban insurgents from Marjah.
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February 23, 2010
US offensive yet to persuade Afghans in key town
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- Bouwudin courteously greeted the Afghan and American officers who came to meet him, offering tea and eventually a meal as the meeting lingered on. No amount of invitations could get him to walk a few hundred yards to the Marines base.
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February 22, 2010
Taliban Resistance Strong In Southern Afghanistan
It's the second week of a major U.S.-led offensive in southern Afghanistan to expel the Taliban from a key stronghold in Helmand province.
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Battle for Marja not only militarily significant
A year ago, the mention of Marja, a speck on the map in southern Afghanistan, would have drawn befuddled stares in the Pentagon.
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US-led troops make 'steady progress' in Marjah
US-led forces fighting to clear a Taliban stronghold in south Afghanistan are making "steady progress", the most senior US military commander says.
Adm Mike Mullen said the operation in the town of Marjah in Helmand province was "messy... but that doesn't mean that it's not worth the cost".
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Progress in Marjah, But Civilian Trust Elusive
MARJAH, Afghanistan—Ten days into the fight for Marjah, U.S. and Afghan troops continue to seize ground, often battling the Taliban from one mud-walled compound to the next. But progress has been slower in winning over local civilians, many of whom are unsure which side will make life safer for their families.
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Reporter's diary: Inside Operation Moshtarak
For more than a week, CNN International Correspondent Atia Abawi has been embedded with U.S. Marines who are working alongside Afghan soldiers to rout out Taliban forces from the southern Afghan province of Marjah. Abawi filed this inside look at Operation Moshtarak:
It's been over a week now since Operation Moshtarak began here in southern Afghanistan. The city of Marjah shakes with the sound of improvised explosive devices, most of them set off by controlled explosions. Between IED blasts, the air is filled with the sounds of whizzing bullets, booming mortars, clacking helicopters, and other noises of war that I can't even express in writing.
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February 21, 2010
Afghans Voice Their Fears Amid Marja Campaign
MARJA, Afghanistan — Since the American-led offensive into the last large Taliban enclave in Helmand Province began nine days ago, local Afghans have faced a dangerous and uncertain world.
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Marines target Taliban holdouts in Marjah
Fighter jets, drone and attack helicopters focus on part of city
MARJAH, Afghanistan - Outnumbered and outgunned, Taliban fighters are mounting a tougher fight than expected in Marjah, Afghan officials said Sunday, as U.S.-led forces converged on a pocket of militants in a western section of the town.
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Military sweep of Marja focuses on pocket of 'determined resistance'
Marines and Afghan troops fight to clear holdout insurgents from one corner of the city in southern Afghanistan. NATO says there is another casualty among Western troops, bringing the total to 13.
Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan, and Nawa, Afghanistan -- Backed by fighter jets and attack helicopters, U.S. Marines and Afghan troops closed in on an insurgent-ridden sector of Marja on Sunday, the ninth day of a coalition bid to wrest control of the southern Afghan town from the Taliban.
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Afghans frustrated in bid to remake Taliban-free towns
Nawa's district governor, upset by the unresponsive provincial government, pleads with residents not to become disenchanted and ally with insurgents.
Reporting from Nawa, Afghanistan — Haji Abdul Manaf, the district governor for this region of Helmand Province, was incensed.
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Marines Converge On Taliban Holdouts In Marjah
NATO Forces Face 'Determined Resistance'
MARJAH, Afghanistan -- Marines and Afghan units converged Sunday on a dangerous western quarter of the Taliban stronghold of Marjah, with NATO forces facing "determined resistance" as their assault on the southern town entered its second week.
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February 20, 2010
Taliban Resistance Stalls New Rule in Marjah
MARJAH, Afghanistan—The Taliban grenade that whizzed overhead was John Kael Weston's first indication that this town might not be ready for an influx of diplomats, agriculturalists and economic-development specialists.
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Marines Do Heavy Lifting as Afghan Army Lags in Battle
ARJA, Afghanistan — As American Marines and Afghan soldiers have fought their way into this Taliban stronghold, the performance of the Afghan troops has tested a core premise of the American military effort here: in the not-too-distant future, the security of this country can be turned over to indigenous forces created at the cost of American money and blood.
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Afghan police deployed in wake of NATO offensive
MARJAH, Afghanistan (Reuters) - Afghan police were deployed on Saturday in an area recaptured from the Taliban by U.S. Marines this week, in the early phase of a plan to put the country firmly under the control of Afghan authorities.
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In Marja, it's war the old-fashioned way
MARJA, AFGHANISTAN -- They had slogged through knee-deep mud carrying 100 pounds of gear, fingers glued to the triggers of their M-4 carbines, all the while on the lookout for insurgents. Now, after five near-sleepless nights, trying to avoid hypothermia in freezing temperatures, the grunts of the 1st Battalion of the 6th Marine Regiment finally had a moment to relax.
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February 19, 2010
Troops Face Pockets of Resistance in Marjah
MARJAH, Afghanistan—The Taliban grenade that whizzed overhead was John Kael Weston's first indication that this embattled town might not be ready for an influx of diplomats, agriculturalists and economic-development specialists.
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US Marines seize Taliban headquarters, IDs, photos
MARJAH, Afghanistan – After a fierce gunfight, U.S. Marines seized a strongly defended compound Friday that appears to have been a Taliban headquarters — complete with photos of fighters posing with their weapons, dozens of Taliban-issued ID cards and graduation diplomas from a training camp in Pakistan.
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Marines in Marja focus on sniper threat
Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan — Following the deadliest day yet for coalition forces seeking to drive the Taliban from the town of Marja in southern Afghanistan, U.S. Marines took aim Friday at the threat posed by insurgent snipers.
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In Afghanistan, Marines handling detainees by the book
The Marines have been ordered not to treat Afghans roughly. When making an arrest, they are instructed to ask their suspect to voluntarily go with them. Most do.
Reporting from Spin Ghar, Afghanistan - The three men were blindfolded, their hands bound in front of them with plastic flex cuffs, and each was in the firm grip of a Marine. Their loose-fitting clothes were faded and dusty, their thick beards beginning to show gray.
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February 18, 2010
Marines dropped behind Taliban lines; NATO now controls key roads in Marjah but progress slow
MARJAH, Afghanistan - Two U.S. helicopters dropped elite Marine recon teams behind Taliban lines before dawn Friday as the U.S.-led force stepped up operations to break resistance on the seventh day of fighting in the besieged militant stronghold of Marjah.
Marines still looking over shoulder for Taliban
MARJAH, Afghanistan (Reuters) - It's only been six days since NATO launched a major assault against the Taliban and some Afghans are already asking Marines when they can reopen their shops.
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February 17, 2010
Snipers Imperil U.S.-Led Forces in Afghan Offensive
MARJA, Afghanistan — In five days of fighting, the Taliban have shown a side not often seen in nearly a decade of American military action in Afghanistan: the use of snipers, both working alone and integrated into guerrilla-style ambushes.
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US forces move swiftly to take control of region north of Marjah
US Marines moving from the north of Marjah have joined up with US troops who were dropped into the area by helicopter four days ago, helping to increase their control over a crucial area known as the “Pork Chop”.
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Embattled Afghan Taliban rely on human shields
MARJAH, Afghanistan — Taliban fighters holding out in Marjah are increasingly using civilians as human shields, firing from compounds where U.S. and Afghan forces can clearly see women and children on rooftops or in windows, Afghan and U.S. troops said Wednesday.
Continue reading "Embattled Afghan Taliban rely on human shields" »
Marjah inroads slowed by new bombs
Lt Col Cal Worth, who commands one of two Marine battalions leading the offensive against Taliban fighters here, set off at 7am on Wednesday for the return journey to his battalion headquarters from a combat outpost less than four miles away.
February 16, 2010
Marines link up in Afghan Taliban stronghold
MARJAH, Afghanistan – Marines moving by land from the north linked up Tuesday with U.S. units that have faced nearly constant Taliban attack in the four days since they were dropped by helicopter into this insurgent stronghold in southern Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Marines link up in Afghan Taliban stronghold" »
Site of Marjah Government Offices Seized
MARJAH, Afghanistan—U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers seized the site of Marjah's government offices, setting the stage for Kabul to attempt to resume its authority in a town long run by the Taliban.
Continue reading "Site of Marjah Government Offices Seized" »
Marines: Taliban resistance more disorganized
MARJAH, Afghanistan — U.S. and Afghan forces traded gunfire with insurgents shooting from haystacks in poppy fields in the Taliban stronghold of Marjah as they pressed ahead in NATO's assault on the militants' heartland in southern Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Marines: Taliban resistance more disorganized" »
February 15, 2010
Soldiers Keep Up Push in Taliban Stronghold
MARJA, Afghanistan — Ten minutes after walking out of the small outpost on Monday morning, the Marines of Company K were ambushed again.
Continue reading "Soldiers Keep Up Push in Taliban Stronghold" »
February 11, 2010
Taliban vow guerrilla warfare against NATO troops
KABUL — The Taliban vowed on Thursday to fight back with a "hit and run" guerrilla campaign against Western and Afghan forces preparing to storm one of their key strongholds in southern Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Taliban vow guerrilla warfare against NATO troops" »
February 10, 2010
U.S. Inches Closer to Major Afghan Assault
Marines Test Taliban Defenses Before Attack on Key Militant Stronghold
(CBS/ AP) U.S. Marines fired smoke rounds Wednesday and armored vehicles maneuvered close to Taliban positions to test insurgent defenses ahead of an anticipated attack on the biggest militant-controlled town in southern Afghanistan.
Continue reading "U.S. Inches Closer to Major Afghan Assault" »
February 8, 2010
Marines quietly wrap up ops in Iraq
By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Feb 8, 2010 8:31:29 EST
By mid-February, Marines will be out of Iraq.
February 4, 2010
Frederick Marine remembered for bravery
Family plans to bury Frederick High graduate at Arlington National Cemetery
Kristen Forse will always remember her brother's bravery — on and off the battlefield.
Continue reading "Frederick Marine remembered for bravery" »
February 3, 2010
Marines, Afghan army plan massive assault on Taliban
The attack will be aimed at Marja, the last community held by the militia in Helmand province.
Reporting from Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan - The U.S. Marines and Afghan army plan a massive assault on Taliban fighters in Marja, the last community under Taliban control in a sprawling, lawless region once dominated by the insurgency, a top Marine said Wednesday.
Continue reading "Marines, Afghan army plan massive assault on Taliban" »
January 27, 2010
Former UT student, Navy sailor died in combat
A U.S. Navy Sailor and former University of Texas student was killed in Afghanistan Saturday. According to the Department of Defense, Petty Officer Second Class Xin Qi, 25, died in combat.
Continue reading "Former UT student, Navy sailor died in combat" »
January 4, 2010
6 tons of illegal drugs seized in Afghanistan
Staff report
Posted : Monday Jan 4, 2010 17:02:04 EST
Marines and Afghan border police recently seized more than six tons of illegal drugs during operations in southern Afghanistan.
Continue reading "6 tons of illegal drugs seized in Afghanistan" »
January 3, 2010
Marines grope with complex Afghan drug woes
By Sebastion Abbot - The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Jan 3, 2010 8:40:21 EST
KHAN NESHIN, Afghanistan — The arrival of Marines has disrupted the illegal drug trade in opium-rich Helmand province — and that’s not necessarily a good thing.
Continue reading "Marines grope with complex Afghan drug woes" »
December 21, 2009
Troops, Taliban race to build up governments
By Sebastian Abbot - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Dec 21, 2009 13:55:15 EST
KHAN NESHIN, Afghanistan — The governor of this remote district in southern Afghanistan has employees he can't afford to pay, a school he struggles to staff with teachers, a clinic where doctors are scarce and a police force of mostly illiterate farmers.
Continue reading "Troops, Taliban race to build up governments" »
December 20, 2009
Last grunts in Iraq prepare to come home
By Trista Talton - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Dec 20, 2009 11:08:43 EST
The last Marine infantry battalion will leave Iraq in January, closing a long, complicated chapter in the Corps’ history as combat intensifies on another front in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Last grunts in Iraq prepare to come home" »
December 17, 2009
From group to regiment, regiment to battalion: Marines continue to drawdown in Iraq
AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq — Combat Logistics Battalion 46 officially took over for Combat Logistics Regiment 27 (Forward) as the logistics combat element during a Transfer of Authority ceremony aboard Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Dec. 16.
December 16, 2009
Stretched Marines largely ignore Afghan border
Surge troops will allow some to be stationed, but Taliban still may be able to move across freely
By Sebastian Abbot - The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Dec 16, 2009 8:07:18 EST
KHAN NESHIN, Afghanistan — Only a few hundred American troops are policing the southern border of one of Afghanistan’s major smuggling areas, leaving open a vast expanse of desert that the Taliban use to shuttle in weapons and fighters from Pakistan.
Continue reading "Stretched Marines largely ignore Afghan border" »
December 7, 2009
Jobs, Not Taliban, Are The Worry In Afghan Town
The dusty bazaar in this remote town in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province was once teeming with Taliban fighters and drug smugglers who used it as a central transit point in their journeys to and from nearby Pakistan.
Continue reading "Jobs, Not Taliban, Are The Worry In Afghan Town" »
November 23, 2009
Operation Blue Spoon underway aboard Al Asad
As the clouds and drizzle of the rainy winter season roll into Iraq, many Marines with Multi National Force - West are rolling out. The gradual drawdown of Marines aboard Al Asad Air Base has sparked the idea for Operation Blue Spoon.
Continue reading "Operation Blue Spoon underway aboard Al Asad" »
October 25, 2009
Marine reserves from Detrick heading to Afghanistan
About 145 Marine reserves from Fort Detrick are preparing to deploy to Helmand province in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Marine reserves from Detrick heading to Afghanistan" »
October 14, 2009
Marines Spread Good Will With Vet Care
HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Oct. 14, 2009 – Marines here have brought new meaning to the expression “goat rope” by helping local farmers with free veterinary care for their goats, sheep and cows.
September 23, 2009
Marine readies for 4th Iraq tour
Sgt. Doug Osborn, 27, has already earned a Purple Heart
MUNCIE -- A Purple Heart recipient from Delaware County has volunteered to return to Iraq for his fourth deployment there.
September 21, 2009
Funeral set in Anderson for Highway Patrol trooper
ANDERSON, SC — Law enforcement officials from across the state will be coming to Anderson on Wednesday to pay their respects to Lance Cpl. Jonathan S. Nash, a graduate of the city’s Oakwood Christian Academy.
Continue reading "Funeral set in Anderson for Highway Patrol trooper" »
August 15, 2009
Journalist Joined Marines After 9/11
Marine Sgt. Bill Cahir, 40, a former Washington-based journalist and congressional staffer who joined the Marines after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, was killed in Afghanistan on Aug. 13, his unit and friends reported. He was an Alexandria resident.
August 14, 2009
Bill Cahir, Express-Times reporter-turned-Marine sergeant, killed in Afghanistan
Former Express-Times correspondent and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Bill Cahir has been killed in combat in Afghanistan, family and friends said Thursday.
August 13, 2009
Bill Cahir, journalist, soldier, great American, killed in Afghanistan
Express-Times correspondent Bill Cahir wrote this front page account of his U.S. Marine boot camp experience that appeared in the newspaper July 4, 2004. Our valued co-worker, friend and journalist was killed in active duty in Afghanistan.
Continue reading "Bill Cahir, journalist, soldier, great American, killed in Afghanistan" »
July 24, 2009
Marines ready as they prepare for Afghanistan
CAMP WILLIAMS -- As the United States intensifies its military mission in Afghanistan, Utah Marines prepare to deploy. We caught up with Charlie Company at the crack of dawn as the Marines trained for their mission.
Continue reading "Marines ready as they prepare for Afghanistan" »
May 9, 2009
Marines deploy to Iraq
KSDK -- Dozens of marines from across the Midwest, including the St. Louis area, have been called to duty.
March 11, 2009
Coalition forces focus on helping victims of war
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq —
When Lt. Cmdr. Kobena Arthur arrived in Iraq for the first time in September 2008, he pledged to make an impact in the far reaches of the western Al Anbar desert.
Continue reading "Coalition forces focus on helping victims of war" »
March 9, 2009
2/14 touts advanced artillery system
Staff report
Posted : Monday Mar 9, 2009 8:39:39 EDT
The reservists with Battery D, 2nd Battalion, 14th Marines, had been at Camp Barber only three weeks in February when they conducted a successful field test of their High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, a first for any Marine unit operating in Afghanistan and a sign of what’s in store for the insurgency there, officials said in a news release.
March 7, 2009
Reserve chiefs: Our people deserve better retirement
By Tom Philpott, Special to Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Saturday, March 7, 2009
Reserve and National Guard members deserve a better retirement plan, one that pays an annuity earlier than age 60 at least for those willing to serve longer than 20 years, Reserve leaders have told Congress.
Continue reading "Reserve chiefs: Our people deserve better retirement" »
February 16, 2009
Iraq-bound 2/23 has packed training schedule
By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Feb 16, 2009 8:38:24 EST
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — When the Corps hands you lemons, a good CO won’t settle for lemonade — he’ll bake a lemon soufflé.
Continue reading "Iraq-bound 2/23 has packed training schedule" »
February 4, 2009
Reservists help reconstruct a nation, one line at a time
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq —
For the past five months, the Marines of 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment have been conducting operations in the Iraq’s Rutbah district, which covers nearly 4,000 square miles of open desert terrain interspersed with towns, villages and nomadic-shepherd communities in Iraq’s western Al Anbar province.
Continue reading "Reservists help reconstruct a nation, one line at a time" »
January 24, 2009
Reserve motor transportation Marines keep the mission rolling
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq —
When the Marines of 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 8 arrived at al Asad Air Base in western Iraq in early September, they were faced with an immediate challenge: transportation.
Continue reading "Reserve motor transportation Marines keep the mission rolling" »
January 17, 2009
IP, Marineshelp change perceptions in rural al-Anbar province
COMBAT OUTPOST AKASHAT, Iraq —
Local Iraqi Police teamed up with Marines and sailors from Company G, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 8, Jan. 14 to give students something to look forward to after finishing their annual standardized tests at Akashat Primary School.
Continue reading "IP, Marineshelp change perceptions in rural al-Anbar province" »
December 4, 2008
Iraqi children receive an education
RUTBAH, Iraq — A patrol of Reserve Marines, soldiers and sailors, led by Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, showed their support for local schools and introduced children to the role that women serve in the U.S. armed forces when visiting the Houran Primary School in Rutbah, Iraq, Dec. 2.
November 29, 2008
Reserve Marines Host Distinguished Visitor
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq — Reserve Marines from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5 based here received an honored guest at their remote desert outpost Nov. 26.
Continue reading "Reserve Marines Host Distinguished Visitor" »
November 24, 2008
War tour plays role in firehouse prank
By Joe Bush - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Nov 24, 2008 20:06:47 EST
At first, fellow Marines might have thought Staff Sgt. Daniel Stranahan was nuts for carrying a plaque with him into outhouses in the middle of Iraq — and photographing it.
November 22, 2008
Reserve Commander Adapts and Overcomes
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq — When Lt. Col. Geoff Rollins took command of 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team in October 2006, he had a daunting task before him.
November 17, 2008
3/25 memorial opens at Cincinnati museum
By Lisa Cornwell - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Nov 17, 2008 9:28:33 EST
CINCINNATI — Three-year-old Christian Kreuter will see a life-size image of the father he never had the chance to know when he and his mother make their first visit to a memorial honoring 23 Ohio-based service members killed in Iraq.
Continue reading "3/25 memorial opens at Cincinnati museum" »
November 16, 2008
Marines Maintain Vigilance on Syrian Border
AL-ANBAR PROVINCE, Iraq — Reserve Marines from Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5 based here drove more than 200 miles Nov. 9 to conduct a security patrol and inspect construction of new Iraqi forts along the country’s border with Syria.
Continue reading "Marines Maintain Vigilance on Syrian Border" »
November 10, 2008
Lima Company art moving to Cincinnati
The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Nov 10, 2008 13:23:01 EST
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Life-size paintings of 23 Marines and service members killed in Iraq are about to be taken down from display at the Statehouse after a five-month run.
November 8, 2008
Surf qualification brings Marines back to amphibious roots
by Cpl Jose Lujano
Date Taken:10.30.2012 | Date Posted:11.08.2012 02:19
CAMP SCHWAB, Japan - Assault amphibious vehicles head 500 meters out from the shores of an Okinawa beach. The AAVs come to a sudden halt, and about 10 Marines and sailors from each AAV leap into the waters in succession.
Continue reading "Surf qualification brings Marines back to amphibious roots" »
October 28, 2008
N.J. Marine receives Bronze Star
New Orleans — Capt. Joseph Lizarraga, Inspector/Instructor, Battery G, 3rd battalion, 14th Marines, and a Hamilton, N.J. native, was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service while on deployment in Iraq, at the reserve center in Trenton, N.J., Oct. 20.
October 20, 2008
Reserve MP spices up life for Marines at remote outpost
COMBAT OUTPOST TREBIL, Iraq — When you step into the mess hall here, the first thing you notice is the smell of gourmet coffee. Next, you notice an orderly array of shelf-stable meals displayed in cubbies along the plywood walls, available to the post’s Marines 24-hours a day.
Continue reading "Reserve MP spices up life for Marines at remote outpost" »
October 17, 2008
Welcome Home 4th LAR
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Marines from Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, a reserve unit based at Camp Upshur here, reunited with their loved ones at a special homecoming reception at Barnett Field here Tuesday, October 14. The Marines deployed to western Al Anbar Province in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March to October 2008 performing a mechanized security mission across more than 9,000 square miles, an area as large as South Carolina. They were mobilized and attached to 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion out of Camp Lejeune.
Annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kicks Off
Toys"R"Us, Inc. today announced the launch of its "Make A Difference" campaign to support the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation's annual toy drive.
Continue reading "Annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kicks Off" »
September 29, 2008
4th Tanks Marine extends to deploy
AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq — Civilian life can wait. At least that was how Sgt. Jonathan J. Gray felt when he found out his unit needed him.
September 25, 2008
Reserve Marines settle in at Korean Village
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq — Reserve Marines from 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, headquartered in Garden City, N.Y., arrived here in late September to support RCT-5’s security and stability mission in western al-Anbar province.
Continue reading "Reserve Marines settle in at Korean Village" »
August 28, 2008
Beyond the Call of Duty
How One Team Roping Marine Made A Difference
Cody Hill was like most late-teen roping bums you know. Coming off a 300-mother cow operation in Ada, Okla., he gravitated toward the arena and was a natural.
August 21, 2008
Marine receives Silver Star
By Colby Sledge - The Nashville Tennessean
Posted : Thursday Aug 21, 2008 17:09:10 EDT
When Lance Cpl. William “Billy” D. Spencer saw his squad leader wounded in an Iraq shootout, he did the only thing he could do: He tried to save his commanding officer.
August 19, 2008
Supporters break ground on home for West Michigan Marine
MIDDLEVILLE, Mich. (WZZM) - Supporters of a local Marine paralyzed by a sniper's bullet in Iraq broke ground today on a new home for him in Middleville.
Continue reading "Supporters break ground on home for West Michigan Marine" »
August 18, 2008
Combat artists paint Reserve battalion’s portrait
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — There are hundreds of thousands of Marines spread across hundreds of occupational specialties, yet only two of them are combat artists, and they are both Reserve Marines
Continue reading "Combat artists paint Reserve battalion’s portrait" »
August 15, 2008
Reserve Marines go on the assault
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Reserve Marines from Company F, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, braved the heat of the Mojave Desert while conducting the Deliberate Assault Course (DAC) Aug. 13-14, in a remote section of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center here.
Each of the battalion’s companies went through the DAC as an integral element of Mojave Viper, an intensive 30-day comprehensive assessment of combat readiness prior to overseas deployment.
August 12, 2008
New Jersey Marines train in the high desert
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- Marine Reserve Staff Sgt. John Tacopino invaded Iraq in a Humvee with no doors.
Continue reading "New Jersey Marines train in the high desert" »
August 9, 2008
Brothers stick together through all
COMBAT OUTPOST AKASHAT, Iraq — It’s common for Marines to refer to each other as brothers-in-arms, but the esprit de corps might just be stronger between two Marines who are actually full-blooded brothers serving in the same unit.
August 5, 2008
Marines target oil smuggling, protect citizens
UM AL WAZZ, Iraq – Western al-Anbar province was one of the most dangerous areas in Iraq in recent years, and Marine units operating there have encountered threats ranging from improvised explosive devices to small-arms firefights.
Continue reading "Marines target oil smuggling, protect citizens" »
Reserve Marines deal with the HEAT
Twentynine Palms, Calif. — Marines and Sailors from Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, had the opportunity to go through the Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer (HEAT) at Camp Wilson here on Aug. 4.
August 1, 2008
Marine’s Arabic skills benefit operation
COMBAT OUTPOST AKASHAT, Iraq —
A Marine started several years ago to learn Arabic, a language spoken throughout the Middle East. Recognizing the value of the talent, he decided to put it to use helping his country.
Continue reading "Marine’s Arabic skills benefit operation" »
July 26, 2008
Marines relax with sports
COMBAT OUTPOST AKASHAT, Iraq —
The stresses of a constant operational tempo give Marines the need for something to balance out the tension. Some Marines have found a way to relax by participating in outdoor sporting activities.
July 9, 2008
Akashat police take control
AKASHAT, Iraq — Another Iraqi Police station became an independent unit in Al Anbar province during a ceremony here July 9. During the ceremony, Marines with Delta Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd LAR Bn., Regimental Combat Team 5 passed responsibility of the city of Akashat to the IPs.
July 6, 2008
Hollywood arrives at Akashat
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq — A company of Marines, in one of the most secluded combat outposts in Iraq, had an unusual visit by a special group of entertainers from Hollywood, Calif..
June 25, 2008
Marines bridge the gap
New River sandbars offer good raft training
There's more than one way to cross a river.
June 11, 2008
Marines Find, Destroy Enemy Weapons
HABBANIYAH — Marines of 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and Company B, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, have worked together day in and day out, searching for weapon caches and disabling the enemy’s number one threat; improvised explosive devices.
June 6, 2008
4th CEB continues search for weapons caches
HABBANIYAH, Iraq — Marines of 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1 and Company B, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, have worked together day in and day out, searching for weapons caches and disabling the enemies number one threat; improvised explosive devices.
Continue reading "4th CEB continues search for weapons caches" »
May 31, 2008
Marines adjust to an evolving Iraq
By Andrew Scutro - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday May 31, 2008 7:55:39 EDT
WESTERN IRAQ — This isn’t the combat mission these Marines expected.
May 28, 2008
Hard, familiar words: Off to Iraq
Parting is no easier the 2nd time
The charter bus waiting to carry Staff Sgt. Darryl Anderson off to war idled nearby.
May 26, 2008
Local Marines Pack-Up, Head Out On Memorial Day
MOUNDSVILLE, W.Va. -- It was tears, hugs and lots of “I love you” as 18 marines from Company K, 3d Battalion, said goodbye to their families in Moundsville, and prepared to head overseas.
Continue reading "Local Marines Pack-Up, Head Out On Memorial Day" »
May 22, 2008
Monument to Marines dedicated at development
A luxury housing development in Wailea is the site of a newly dedicated monument honoring the 4th Division Marines who trained on Maui during World War II before shipping out to battles in the Pacific.
Continue reading "Monument to Marines dedicated at development" »
May 19, 2008
Healing visions
Artist's portraits touch spirit of lost Marines of Ohio's Lima Company
COLUMBUS - There's a little-known stretch of heaven in Westerville.
May 8, 2008
Wisconsin family remembers their fallen Marine
HABBANIYAH, Iraq (May 8, 2008) – Funny, outgoing, crazy, loving, full of life – those are just a few of the many words that describe the late Cpl. Richard “Ricky” J. Nelson, a 23-year-old rifleman from Kenosha, Wis., who was killed by an improvised explosive device in the al Anbar Province of Iraq, Apr. 14.
Continue reading "Wisconsin family remembers their fallen Marine" »
Mass. Marine Reserve unit mobilized
The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday May 8, 2008 9:37:22 EDT
DEVENS, Mass. — A Massachusetts-based Marine Corps Reserve unit is being mobilized for eventual deployment to Iraq.
April 30, 2008
Local tips lead Marines to weapons cache
HABBANIYAH, Iraq —
HABBANIYAH, Iraq — The war has changed. No longer are Marines kicking in doors and battling insurgents with continuous gunfire. Instead, they are walking through the war-torn streets of Iraq, the same streets that just a few short years ago were the sights of horrendous warfare, where Marines are now continuously greeted by hoards of children, with their parents or guardians watching, smiling from a distance.
Continue reading "Local tips lead Marines to weapons cache" »
April 28, 2008
Thousands attend service for former MIA Maupin
By Howard Wilkinson and Cliff Radel - The Cincinnati Enquirer
Posted : Monday Apr 28, 2008 8:59:19 EDT
CINCINNATI — Yes, there were many tears Sunday afternoon as Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin was finally laid to rest. But they were not all tears of sorrow.
Continue reading "Thousands attend service for former MIA Maupin" »
March 28, 2008
Marines return to Atlanta after Iraq deployment
233 WENT, 233 RETURNED: Marines back from Iraq into open arms
This is how it should be, when warriors come home.
Continue reading "Marines return to Atlanta after Iraq deployment" »
March 25, 2008
Sea-based Marines deliver humanitarian supplies to Liberians
MONROVIA, Liberia — The streets were lined with hundreds of smiling faces and thumbs-up signs. Happy shouts of "Marines!" were directed towards a humanitarian assistance convoy of two seven-ton trucks and several humvees laden with thousands of dollars worth of hospital and school supplies making their way slowly through the city of Monrovia, Liberia.
Continue reading "Sea-based Marines deliver humanitarian supplies to Liberians" »
Hundreds greet wounded Marine
CASCADE TOWNSHIP, Mich (WOOD) -- When word went out that Joshua Hoffman was coming home, his family asked the injured Marine corporal if he wanted a public homecoming.
Paralyzed Marine Joshua Hoffman returns home to well-wishers
"Can I give you a kiss?"
Continue reading "Paralyzed Marine Joshua Hoffman returns home to well-wishers" »
March 8, 2008
Marine deploys to Iraq, puts Ultimate Fighter dream on hold
HABBANIYAH, Iraq (March 8, 2008) -- Sacrifices are made when preparing to deploy. When a reserve battalion is activated, the Marines are required to put their entire lives on hold. Not only do they sacrifice being away from family, friends and jobs, some of them even put their dreams on hold.
Continue reading "Marine deploys to Iraq, puts Ultimate Fighter dream on hold" »
February 23, 2008
2/24 Patrols, Keeps Streets Safe
SAQLAWIYAH, Iraq (Feb. 23, 2008) -- Thanks to the Marines of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, the streets of Saqlawiyah continue to be a safer place to live.
February 18, 2008
Marine reservists bring maturity to latest deployment
By Geoff Ziezulewicz, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Monday, February 18, 2008
CAMP HABBANIYAH, Iraq — What a difference a couple of years makes. That’s how long it’s been since the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines, a Reserve unit out of Chicago, have been deployed to Iraq.
Continue reading "Marine reservists bring maturity to latest deployment" »
February 14, 2008
Company E, 2/24 conducts Census Ops
SAQLAWIYAH, Iraq (Feb. 14, 2008) -- Getting to know the family living next door can sometimes be a challenge, but Marines of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, patrolled through the streets of Saqlawiyah Feb. 12, introducing themselves as the new ‘family’ next door.
February 4, 2008
Corps commissions symphony for New Orleans
MARINE CORPS TIMES - (Feb. 4, 2008) -- Some of the most grizzled Marines have worried in recent years that the Corps was getting away from its “expeditionary roots.”
Continue reading "Corps commissions symphony for New Orleans" »
February 1, 2008
Marines, Soldiers train IP for the future
HADITHA CITY, Iraq (Feb. 1, 2008) -- Marines with 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, and the Army’s 170th Military Police Company routinely work side-by-side to train the Iraqi Police in the Haditha area.
Continue reading "Marines, Soldiers train IP for the future" »
Reserve LAR company celebrates activation with assault course training
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (Feb. 1, 2008) -- A newly reactivated Marine Corps Reserve light armored reconnaissance company put their skills to the test Feb. 1.
Continue reading "Reserve LAR company celebrates activation with assault course training" »
January 16, 2008
Company intel changes pace of operations
COMBAT OUPOST AKASHAT, Iraq – Intelligence specialists at the battalion level support a large area of operations, but some ground combat companies prefer to have “intel” elements at their level, especially when that unit is responsible for a large area itself.
Continue reading "Company intel changes pace of operations" »
January 7, 2008
2 brothers also in band of brothers
Marine reservists glad to serve in same unit in Iraq
Brian and Mike Wiebe shared everything, from friends to a passion for football, while growing up in northwest suburban Rolling Meadows.
January 4, 2008
Quantico reserve unit ships out to Iraq War MARINES >> 'Band of brothers' among those deploying
Marine reservist unit based at Quantico departs for eventual deployment to Iraq
Tom Patsos fought back tears yesterday as he gave some last-minute advice to his son, who was setting out on his first deployment.
December 15, 2007
2/24 takes on Mojave Viper DAC
The Marines and sailors of 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, completed the Deliberate Assault Course at Combat Center Range 210 Dec. 5-7.
December 9, 2007
A Marine's long road home; After an Iraq bomb left him in a coma with Traumatic Brain Injury, a Saginaw man struggles to be normal
BAY CITY -- A Purple Heart hangs on the wall over his pillow. Photos from Iraq are taped above the desk. A Marine Corps flag is pinned above the bed.
November 17, 2007
A family affair-3/23 holds family day
NAVAL AIR STATION/JOINT RESERVE BASE NEW ORLEANS, La. — (Nov. 17, 2007) -- Family members of 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment’s deployed Marines and sailors came together here Saturday afternoon during a battalion family day.
November 12, 2007
Campaigning From a Combat Zone
A Marine reservist seeks Dad's House seat.
While California Congressman Duncan L. Hunter, the ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, is navigating the campaign trail in his long-shot bid for the White House, his son, Marine Capt. Duncan D. Hunter, is running to replace him in Congress with help from his dad's Beltway buddies. The younger Hunter, or Junior, as he is called by some friends and family, is waging this political struggle while serving his country 8,000 miles away in Afghanistan (he has also served in Iraq).
September 29, 2007
Marines Going to Iraq
A group of about 60 local Marines head to Iraq for the second time.
September 10, 2007
As bullets fly, Marine takes out a sketchpad; His mission is to deploy with various squads and create art depicting life in a war zone.
His orders are simple: "Go to war, do art."
September 6, 2007
Pace Thanks World War II Marines for Setting Standard for Today’s Troops
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Sept. 6, 2007 – Marine Gen. Peter Pace last night thanked veterans of the storied 4th Marine Division who fought in Iwo Jima and other major World War II battles for setting the example for today’s troops and demonstrating why they’ll never fail in combat.
Continue reading "Pace Thanks World War II Marines for Setting Standard for Today’s Troops" »
July 7, 2007
OKC Marine Reserve unit to leave for Iraq
OKLAHOMA CITY -- A large contingent of Marines from the Armed Forces Reserve Center will leave for Iraq next week for a seven-month tour of duty.
Continue reading "OKC Marine Reserve unit to leave for Iraq" »
July 3, 2007
Talisman Saber 2007 comes to a close
ROCKHAMPTON, Australia - Tens of thousands of U.S. and Australian forces concluded the largest joint war fighting exercise in the Pacific this year July 3 with successes all around.
June 12, 2007
NMCRS Combat Casualty Program Meets Critical Need
From the time he was a young boy, Maj. James L. Browning Jr. wanted to fly. As a 12-year-old, Browning joined the Mississippi Wing Civil Air Patrol, a civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. During his time as a Civilian Air Patrol cadet, he learned the importance of leadership, physical fitness, and a strong moral compass—all qualities that would serve him well as a Marine in the years to come.
Continue reading "NMCRS Combat Casualty Program Meets Critical Need" »
June 9, 2007
Task Force 24 reaches out to Chilean needy
CIFUNCHO, Chile (June 9, 2007) -- Building cooperation and support through humanitarian missions as well as training, Marines of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 24 joined Chilean counterparts in distributing donated items to the needy this week.
Continue reading "Task Force 24 reaches out to Chilean needy" »
Marines offload, train in Chilean desert
CIFUNCHO, Chile (June 9, 2007) -- Almost three weeks into their deployment, the Marines of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 24 are still discovering just how surprising, yet familiar, Chile’s landscape and climate can be.
Continue reading "Marines offload, train in Chilean desert" »
June 7, 2007
HARD TO SAY GOODBYE
It wasn't easy for Jon Thomas to let his son go to Iraq the first time, but the second time is devastating. "I cried," Thomas said. "He volunteered to do it, but I just hope he comes back OK."
June 2, 2007
Plaza honors Marine, others killed in Iraq
From childhood, Brad Squires dreamed of being two things: a Marine and firefighter.
Continue reading "Plaza honors Marine, others killed in Iraq" »
May 28, 2007
Their words live on; Letters shine light on what Marines thought in final days
Memorial Day is the day we remember the men and women in uniform who died serving this country, from Saratoga and Bunker Hill to Haditha and Fallujah.
Continue reading "Their words live on; Letters shine light on what Marines thought in final days" »
May 25, 2007
Wounded warrior leads formation run to Ground Zero
NEW YORK (May 25, 2007) -- New York police and firefighters joined forces with the Marine Corps on Thursday for a two-mile motivational run through the lower east side of Manhattan led by a “wounded warrior.”
Continue reading "Wounded warrior leads formation run to Ground Zero" »
May 20, 2007
Playground dedicated to fallen Marine
MILFORD — A few days before Aug. 25, 2006, Marine Cpl. Jordan Pierson could have transferred to a safer assignment in Iraq.
May 16, 2007
Flag to return to Pearson school
WINSTED - An American flag will come full circle today.
Pearson Middle School students took a flag from a pole outside the school in October 2005 and gave it to 25th Marine group, 4th Marine Division in Plainville prior to their deployment to Iraq. The Marines returned from active duty, and they will now return the flag to the students.
April 23, 2007
MICHIGAN'S BAND OF BROTHERS Soon, 1/24th Marines will be home; After 7 months in Iraq, they are back in the U.S.
TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIF. -- Salutes, softball and a brass band -- the 1/24th Marine Reserves are back in America.
April 22, 2007
Many local Marines return home
EWING -- As they neared the waiting crowds, subdued anticipation turned instantly to sheer joy. As they entered the airport, the screams were deafening.
Marines welcomed home from Iraq
Lance Cpl. Brandon Morgan seemed a little disoriented Saturday afternoon as he stepped onto the lawn at his wife's grandmother's house in Red Bank.
April 21, 2007
Reservists Return Home from Iraq
April 21, 2007 - This has been an extra special Saturday in Northeast Philadelphia. It was a jubilant homecoming for some 150 Marine reservists.
April 11, 2007
Grand Rapids based Marines coming home
Grand Rapids - The Grand Rapids-based Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marines, will be coming home soon. Sunday, the families of the 170 Grand Rapids marines prepared for the homecoming.
March 20, 2007
Tri-Cities Marines coming home
Homecoming celebrations are in the works tonight for some Tri-Cities marines.
South Bend-based Company B Marines back on U.S. soil
The Marines with South Bend-based Engineer Company B are back in the United States. They arrived in California just after 5 p.m. EDT on Tuesday. They're back from a seven-month deployment to Iraq.
Continue reading "South Bend-based Company B Marines back on U.S. soil" »
March 18, 2007
Local Marines Return from Duty
Just a few days before the fourth anniversary of the war in Iraq, there's a happy homecoming for some hometown heroes
March 16, 2007
Mobile-based Marines welcomed home
After seven months in Iraq, these Mobile-based troops were home.
Cheers erupted from the crowd of family and friends as the Marines got off the bus.
Back Home
Mar 16, 2007 - Two local Marine reservists are home tonight... after a seven month deployment in Iraq.
March 15, 2007
South Plains Marines Return Home From Iraq
Marine Reservists from West Texas and New Mexico returned home late Thursday night from a 7 month deployment in Iraq. Members of the 6th Motor Transport Battalion in Lubbock arrived at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport around 9:45 p.m. Thursday.
Continue reading "South Plains Marines Return Home From Iraq" »
March 11, 2007
Program aids area families with Marines in Iraq; Official singles out locally based unit for national honor
When his son, Jon, was deployed to Iraq, Dan Meyer didn’t know how he would handle the “in between.”
Marines clean up Fallujah streets – literally
By Megan McCloskey, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, March 11, 2007
The dangerous main drag through insurgent-infested downtown Fallujah, Iraq, was cleared of three dump truck loads of dirt, rubble and trash during a recent fast-paced night mission — the first such cleanup on the street.
Continue reading "Marines clean up Fallujah streets – literally" »
March 4, 2007
Brothers see end of mission coming, Selfridge battalion can decamp Iraq
For the families of about 700 Michigan Marines, there's finally a little daylight peeking into a long, dark tunnel of anxiety as their sons, brothers, boyfriends and husbands near the end of their seven-month deployment to Iraq.
Continue reading "Brothers see end of mission coming, Selfridge battalion can decamp Iraq" »
Brothers see end of mission coming, Selfridge battalion can decamp Iraq
For the families of about 700 Michigan Marines, there's finally a little daylight peeking into a long, dark tunnel of anxiety as their sons, brothers, boyfriends and husbands near the end of their seven-month deployment to Iraq.
Continue reading "Brothers see end of mission coming, Selfridge battalion can decamp Iraq" »
March 2, 2007
Reserve troops in West Palm tapped for sixth time in four years
West Palm Beach · For the sixth time in less than four years, yet another small band of young U.S. Marines left a reserve center across the street from Palm Beach International Airport early Thursday to start a long journey to the war in Iraq. All stood erect and proud, and most were dry-eyed.
Continue reading "Reserve troops in West Palm tapped for sixth time in four years" »
29 Marines from area bound by mission in Iraq
The sky was still dark and the streetlights bright early Thursday when 29 young men arrived at the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Center on Belvedere Road to go to war.
Continue reading "29 Marines from area bound by mission in Iraq" »
February 21, 2007
Local unit preparing for Iraq duty, Red Cross provides Marines with a send-off, offers of support.
Some of Palm Beach's finest are to be sent from the sun-kissed tropical beaches of South Florida to the sand-scoured landscape of Mesopotamia — a place that can only be described as "different."
February 19, 2007
Dozens of Marine reservists headed to Iraq
It's been a difficult day for a number of military families in the valley. About 40 local Marines said their good-byes before heading out to Iraq. The Marines are with a reserve unit, the 6th Motor Transport Battalion.
Continue reading "Dozens of Marine reservists headed to Iraq" »
February 18, 2007
Wounded but still fighting. "I remember thinking to myself, with that shot to my head, I shouldn't be alive right now -- and I was."
BETHESDA, Md. -- The first round blew through Maj. K.C. Schuring's helmet, creased the top of his head and popped out through his goggles.The second round felt as if Tigers slugger Magglio Ordonez were teeing off on the center of his back.
February 12, 2007
Marine receives 2 Bronze Stars, Danville graduate is honored for service in Afghanistan
Marine Corps Maj. Randall S. Hoffman never knew his uncle, a Vietnam War helicopter crew chief who died in a troop recovery mission in 1968.
February 9, 2007
Police chief gets Iraq war medals, Angelino receives two Purple Hearts
Norwich Police Chief Joseph G. Angelino recently received Purple Hearts for two injuries he suffered in Iraq in September 2005.
Continue reading "Police chief gets Iraq war medals, Angelino receives two Purple Hearts" »
February 3, 2007
Surprise ceremony honors Marine at home. Purple Heart recognizes Iraq war wounds
MT. JULIET — Gene Leigh McCollum stepped out the door Friday morning to run errands, pay some bills and have a fairly normal day. Less than five minutes later, he was a decorated war veteran.
February 2, 2007
More IRR Marines face involuntary call-ups
By Kimberly Johnson - staff writer
Posted : Friday Feb 2, 2007 21:34:35 EST
Marines in the Individual Ready Reserve could face involuntary activations to fill the gap as the Corps moves to increase its end strength by 22,000 Marines, according to the Corps’ top mobilization official.
Continue reading "More IRR Marines face involuntary call-ups" »
Wounded Marine remembers fallen comrade
CALEDONIA -- He lost a kidney, his spleen and almost his life.
Continue reading "Wounded Marine remembers fallen comrade" »
January 20, 2007
For Marine, long list of wounds - and friends
Fundraisers planned to aid Saline reservist
Continue reading "For Marine, long list of wounds - and friends" »
January 5, 2007
Local Marines Send Medical Supplies To Iraq
GRAND RAPIDS — More than two hundred boxes filled the auditorium of the Marine Reserve Center of Grand Rapids today.
Continue reading "Local Marines Send Medical Supplies To Iraq" »
January 2, 2007
Bowling's unit subject of CNN show, Segment scheduled to air tonight
A tribute to honor a local Marine and others killed while serving in Iraq will be broadcast at 10 tonight on CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360.
Continue reading "Bowling's unit subject of CNN show, Segment scheduled to air tonight" »
January 1, 2007
Civil Affairs Marines fight crucial battle in Al Anbar Province
COMBAT OUTPOST RAWAH, Iraq - Mothers of Marines here have another reason to be proud of their sons - their boys are trying to solve problems with words, instead of violence.
Continue reading "Civil Affairs Marines fight crucial battle in Al Anbar Province" »
Understanding Reserve Duty, How Duty is Fulfilled in Marine Forces Reserve
Most people think being a reservist means serving one weekend a month and two weeks a year. In many instances, that’s the right idea, but there are a variety of other ways to be a Marine without being part of the active-duty Corps.
Continue reading "Understanding Reserve Duty, How Duty is Fulfilled in Marine Forces Reserve" »
Weekend Warrior No More, Reserve Marines Drop Stigma
Richard Litto does not like the term “weekend warrior.” In fact, he despises it, and the mere mention of the phrase triggers a standoffish response in a thick, South Boston accent.
Continue reading "Weekend Warrior No More, Reserve Marines Drop Stigma" »
December 17, 2006
Marines bring smiles, relief, hope for the future to refugees
CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE, Iraq (December 17, 2006) -- The candy coated grins on the children’s faces were matched only by the smiles of the Marines handing out the treats.
Continue reading "Marines bring smiles, relief, hope for the future to refugees" »
Fighting spirit carries Marine, After a bomb in Iraq took Tennessean Eric Frazier's legs, he took on a new mission — to walk again.
WASHINGTON — On the 52nd day of the rest of his life, Marine Lance Cpl. Eric Frazier chatted with a basketball star, enjoyed time outside soaking up an unusually mild December morning and stood for more than a minute on his new right leg.
Brothers for real, in war together; Sons near each other a fear, comfort for parents
The tiny globes of tortilla dough line up as straight as Marines in the kitchen of Maria Ponce's modest home near Grand Rapids.
MORE MARINES HEADED OUT: Painful partings, Troops leave families for Iraq
The bright pink walls of the tiny room in the modest home in Mason seemed to glow as portraits of Disney princesses looked down from the wallpaper trim.
Continue reading "MORE MARINES HEADED OUT: Painful partings, Troops leave families for Iraq" »
December 15, 2006
Additional Coalition Forces, construction of dirt “berms” increase security conditions in Iraq’s Haditha Triad region
CAMP AL ASAD, Iraq (Dec. 15, 2006) - Coalition Forces recently completed construction of an 8-foot high, dirt berm with traffic control points along the eastern perimeter of Barwanah, Iraq, to deny insurgents freedom of movement into the city.
December 12, 2006
In Fallujah, Marines bring goodwill, but trouble can follow
FALLUJAH, IRAQ – While their weapons were ready, this was a mission about charity. The US Marines weren't entering a hospital in downtown Fallujah to root out insurgents, they were going there simply to help.
Continue reading "In Fallujah, Marines bring goodwill, but trouble can follow" »
December 11, 2006
GR Marine unit puts in long days in Anbar province
Shrapnel from an explosion hit Lance Cpl. Bryon Bailey hard. It gave him a concussion and left his face pockmarked.
Continue reading "GR Marine unit puts in long days in Anbar province" »
December 10, 2006
In Iraq, their weapon is data, Marines fight with what they know
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Inside a stronghold that commands a stretch of land between the river and the desert, the Hobbits work wonders in a windowless chamber.
Continue reading "In Iraq, their weapon is data, Marines fight with what they know" »
December 8, 2006
Marines Save Iraqi Baby to Honor Fallen Medic, Routine Patrol Turned Into Mission to Help Sick Child
(Dec. 8) - The story of a group of Marines' quest to save a sick baby in war-torn Iraq gives some hope to humanity this holiday season.
December 6, 2006
MICHIGAN'S BAND OF BROTHERS: The road erupts and hearts stop, After weekend gunfights, Alpha Co. hit by blast outside Fallujah
Free Press staff writer Joe Swickard and photojournalist David P. Gilkey are in Iraq covering the 1st Battalion of the 24th Marine Regiment, the largest deployment of Michigan Marines in the war. On Monday, they were on patrol with Alpha Company when a roadside bomb exploded. Here is their account.
WEST OF FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Rolling slow and southwestward along Route Boston in the late afternoon Monday, Lance Cpl. Tom Stellema looked closely at the patch covering one of the many old roadside bomb holes that pit the pavement.
Hub officer gets a hero's welcome home
Terrence "Shane" Burke wanted a quiet reunion with his Boston police family last evening.
TH Marine loses leg after Humvee blasted by improvised explosive device
TERRE HAUTE — Mike Watson struggled to hold back tears as he spoke Wednesday via telephone about his son, Lance Cpl. Chad M. Watson.
Continue reading "TH Marine loses leg after Humvee blasted by improvised explosive device" »
December 4, 2006
Marines, Steelers fans score with Christmas toys for tots, Collection a winning play to bring smiles to children
Talk about a refreshing turnabout in circumstances.
*Saving baby Mariam
Unto death, platoon fulfills a mission in Iraq
It was a routine patrol, in the third week of June -- if, in fact, there is such a thing as a routine patrol in Fallujah, in the Anbar Province of Iraq.
Chris Walsh, a Navy medic assigned to a US Marines weapons company, was riding in a Humvee with three Marines, when a hidden bomb exploded in the dirt road just in front of them.
December 3, 2006
Marine is facing the fight of his life
Lance Cpl. Timothy Lang manned the turret atop a Humvee patrolling Fallujah, Iraq, when a roadside bomb made him a casualty of war.
December 1, 2006
Mount Zion Marine wounded
MOUNT ZION - When a Marine Corps Reserve officer called Mike Watson at work to tell him his son had been seriously injured in Iraq, he asked the officer if his son would survive.
November 30, 2006
Marines take two suspected insurgents off the streets
FALLUJAH, Iraq - Marines from Personnel Security Detachment, Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion 24th Marine Regiment, apprehended two suspected insurgents in Fallujah, Iraq Nov 20.
Marines with the battalion are currently serving under Regimental Combat Team 5 in Fallujah, Iraq.
Continue reading "Marines take two suspected insurgents off the streets" »
November 29, 2006
On patrol in Fallujah: Danger zone
Marines' credo: Stop trouble before it kills
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- "Patrollin', patrollin'," a turret gunner sang, encased in chicken wire like somebody in a carnival dunk tank as the line of Humvees growled out of Charlie Company's base camp. "We're patrollin' through Fallujah."
'HE GAVE HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS', 2 Ohio towns say farewell to fallen Marine
TIFFIN - To the altar of St. Mary's Catholic Church, family and friends of Lance Cpl. Jeremy S. Shock carried symbols of what was important to the young Marine killed 10 days ago in Iraq.
Continue reading "'HE GAVE HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS', 2 Ohio towns say farewell to fallen Marine" »
November 28, 2006
Marines dig ‘Talons’ into insurgency
SAQLAWIYAH, Iraq (Nov. 28, 2006) -- Marines from 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment swooped down on unknowing insurgents recently. Marines netted 13 suspected insurgents and rescued two Iraqis held hostage by insurgents.
*Families and volunteers help Knoxville Marines in Iraq
KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- As if the war in Iraq wasn't hard enough, now local reservists are serving during the holiday season.
So Tuesday night at the Naval and Marine Reserve Center on Alcoa Highway, family members came out to make that distance a little shorter.
Continue reading "*Families and volunteers help Knoxville Marines in Iraq" »
November 27, 2006
Good cook is a fortune of Iraq war, Plymouth man feeds troops
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Lance Cpl. Christopher Owens couldn't get an inch of traction trying to rag Charlie Company's chief cook, Lance Cpl. Steven Oliver, that his insignia should be a bowl with crossed spoons.
Continue reading "Good cook is a fortune of Iraq war, Plymouth man feeds troops" »
November 24, 2006
Love prevails, even in war, Bond unites families while U.S. mission in Iraq continues
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Thanksgiving came to Fallujah with fists hammering on sheet metal gates.
November 17, 2006
BAND OF BROTHERS: Michigan reservists travel path of peril
Wary Marines take deadly route in Iraqi desert killing field
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- Two Humvees, a pair of 7-ton armored trucks topped with gun turrets and a tow truck swing onto what has been dubbed Route Michigan, rolling toward sunset in the Sunni Triangle into one of the world's worst killing zones.
Continue reading "BAND OF BROTHERS: Michigan reservists travel path of peril" »
November 10, 2006
Hub’s bravest doing double duty overseas
Just weeks before Terrence Burke would lose his right lower leg in a bomb blast in Fallujah, the rookie BPD officer had already been dubbed a hero and “all heart” by the Marines of Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines - not an easy feat in a unit that includes four Boston cops and several city firefighters, men generally leery of “hero” tags.
Continue reading "Hub’s bravest doing double duty overseas" »
November 9, 2006
*Greenfield Marine fights battle at home
Greenfield - The Marine uniform symbolizes strength, honor and country. The men and women who answer the call live by the Marine motto "Semper Fidelis." It means "Always faithful" in Latin.
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November 6, 2006
Magical evening welcomed home New Hampshire soldiers
Last week was a stellar week for Nashua. Oct. 25 was a cold dark evening, but Nashua High School South was ablaze with lights. The gym was filled with electricity and emotion.
Continue reading "Magical evening welcomed home New Hampshire soldiers" »
Heroes come home
In a crowd of parents waving banners and wives dressed in their prettiest outfits, little Cody Watkins was one of the few who could relax.
Gainesville Marines Return From Iraq
JACKSONVILLE - In a crowd of parents waving banners and wives dressed in their prettiest outfits, little Cody Watkins was one of the few who could relax.
November 4, 2006
Despite battle wounds and missing college, Marine reservist volunteers for second tour of duty in Iraq
AL ASAD, Iraq (Nov. 4, 2006) - Sgt. Mark Miller should have graduated from the Virginia Military Institute a few months ago with a bachelor"s degree in civil engineering.
November 3, 2006
*THE WAR: Two Ridgefield Marines recall life in Iraq
It’s an unforgetable sound.
Five times a day, the first around 5 a.m. as the dawn sun presages the heat of the coming day, the sound echoes across the city from loud speakers dangling from every minaret.
“Allah u akbar! Allah u akbar! Hayya la-s-saleah! Hayya la-s-saleah!”
Continue reading "*THE WAR: Two Ridgefield Marines recall life in Iraq" »
Detroit-based Marines helping rebuild Iraq
FALLUJAH, Iraq - When Marines want the straight scoop, they get out on the street and talk face to face with Fallujans.
Continue reading "Detroit-based Marines helping rebuild Iraq" »
November 1, 2006
Chuck Norris roundhouse kicks Camp Baharia
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (Nov. 01, 2006) - Chuck Norris doesn't raise morale. He roundhouse kicks it into the stratosphere.
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October 31, 2006
*Picatinny reservists march home
Marine unit that lost Whippany H.S. grad back from Iraq
ROCKAWAY TWP. -- A parade and welcome home ceremony were held Monday at Picatinny Arsenal for a Marine reserve unit which lost a young lance corporal just before leaving Iraq.
October 30, 2006
When troops bring the war in Iraq home, For Marine reserve company, returning to Ohio is an unexpected battle
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Alone and in clusters, collars up to block the rain, thousands of people lined the streets on a gray October day in 2005 to welcome their warriors home. For 13 miles, they rose to wave, a few to salute, as the buses rolled slowly past. More than one tough Marine, homeward bound after a brutal tour in Iraq, shed a tear.
October 29, 2006
Marines search houses in Fallujah’s Shuhada district
FALLUJAH, Iraq - (Oct. 29, 2006) Marines from C Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment staged cordon-and-knock operations in the Shuhada district in southern Fallujah as part of Operation Seminole Oct. 28.
Continue reading "Marines search houses in Fallujah’s Shuhada district" »
October 28, 2006
Marines return from Iraq to warm, happy welcome
Chesterfield-based Hotel Battery is home with no loss of life
They got shot at, blown up and rocket-propelled grenaded. They were hot, dirty and tired. Their duty week didn't have a weekend.
Continue reading " Marines return from Iraq to warm, happy welcome" »
Frederick-based Marine shot twice in Iraq; Leesburg, Va., resident expected to make full recovery from injuries sustained during combat
FREDERICK -- A Marine in a Frederick-based unit deployed to Iraq on Oct. 11 was shot twice earlier this week but is expected to make a full recovery, a unit spokesman said Friday.
October 27, 2006
Marines treated to a comedic homecoming ceremony
More than 100 local marines back from Iraq enjoyed a different type of homecoming this morning. Instead of speeches and awards, the 314 H-Battery Marine unit got to laugh!
Continue reading "Marines treated to a comedic homecoming ceremony" »
October 26, 2006
*Marine Reserve Unit Returns Home To Maine
TOPSHAM, Maine -- More than 50 Marine reservists received a homecoming celebration on Thursday when they returned home to Maine after a seven-month tour in Iraq.
Note: There are videoclips, seen by clicking on the original link.
Continue reading "*Marine Reserve Unit Returns Home To Maine" »
*Marines return home
Dozens of Marines based in our area are home from Iraq. And they say they are happy to be home with family and friends.
Note: There is a video clip that can be seen by clicking on the original link.
N.E. Marines Returning Home
Hundreds of New England Marines will be returning home to a warm welcome from family and friends Thursday after serving seven months in Iraq.
*135 Marines return home from Iraq
That was the message family and friends had for the 135 members of the 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment who filed into the gymnasium at Nashua High School South on Wednesday night.
October 25, 2006
*FAMILIES WELCOME MARINES HOME
Troops return from Iraq to warm embrace
When Jerry Henson returned from the Vietnam War in 1966 there was one person waiting to greet him at the airport -- his wife.
"And that was it," said the 65-year-old Louisvillian.
*Marine reservists welcomed back to American soil after tour in Iraq
Home at last
Trim and fit and dressed in desert fatigues, 43 Marine reservists of Truck Company, Fourth Marine Division disembarked yesterday through Gate A3 at Pittsburgh International Airport to the wide-open arms of parents and grandparents, spouses and children, relatives and friends.
Continue reading "*Marine reservists welcomed back to American soil after tour in Iraq" »
Local Marines Back From Iraq
Some Susquehanna Valley marines have returned from Iraq.
Seventy members of Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Regiment arrived in Harrisburg at about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday with an escort of police cars and fire trucks.
Marines return (2/25 Echo Co)
They received a heroes' welcome in Harrisburg just a few hours ago. Courtney Monie has more on the families that were reunited.
Marines return (2/25 Echo Co)
They received a heroes' welcome in Harrisburg just a few hours ago. Courtney Monie has more on the families that were reunited.
October 24, 2006
*21 Tulsa Area Marines Return Home
21 Marines are back from Iraq after seven months overseas.
It ends a long journey that included tragedy. The Marines are attached to the Anti-Tank Training Company based out of Broken Arrow. And while the families were happy to be reunited, for some the welcome was bittersweet.
*Emotional Homecoming For Local Marines
(KDKA) FINDLAY TWP. Pittsburgh International Airport was filled with celebration this afternoon as local Marines returned home safely from a lengthy deployment in Iraq.
Note: There is a video clip, seen by clicking on the orginal link.
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October 23, 2006
Coalition forces open up school, issue supplies
AL MADINAH, Iraq (Oct. 23, 2006) -- Marines with 4th Civil Affairs Group, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), and soldiers with Able Company, 2nd Combined Arms Battalion of the 136th Infantry Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), accompanied Maj. Gen Tariq Abdul Wahab Jasin, Commanding General of the 1st Iraqi Army Division to visit a recently opened school in Al Madinah As Siyahiyah (Tourist Town) and distribute supplies to the children October 9.
Continue reading "Coalition forces open up school, issue supplies" »
October 21, 2006
Wounded Burlington Marine wants to return to duty
Bomb's are the weapons of choice for insurgents in Iraq. Lance Corporal Jason Mikolajcik was three feet from a car bomb in Falluja when it exploded.
Continue reading "Wounded Burlington Marine wants to return to duty" »
October 18, 2006
*Family Of Marine Severely Injured In Iraq Holds Faith
GREENFIELD, Ind. -- The family of a Marine from Indiana is awaiting his return to the U.S. after he was severely injured in a roadside bomb blast in Iraq.
Continue reading "*Family Of Marine Severely Injured In Iraq Holds Faith" »
Marine's call alerts family of serious wound
Call it a mother's intuition. Call it coincidence if you want.
Continue reading "Marine's call alerts family of serious wound" »
October 17, 2006
Frederick Marines begin deployment
FREDERICK -- Local Marines began their deployment last week with an expanded, more dangerous mission.
A Frederick-based unit flew out from Cherry Point, N.C., on Oct. 11 and is expected to remain in Iraq for seven months.
October 16, 2006
1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment newest RCT-5 battalion in Fallujah
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Oct. 16, 2006) -- Marines from 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment are now on deck and running combat operations in Fallujah after relieving Marines from 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment recently.
Continue reading "1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment newest RCT-5 battalion in Fallujah" »
October 14, 2006
Marines get happy welcome back home
1970s TV star Erik Estrada, who happened to be at the airport, joins 100 friends and relatives.
DAYTON — Even a surprise appearance by Erik Estrada failed to shift the spotlight on Saturday away from U.S. Marines returning home after six months in Iraq.
Marine unit is set to return from Iraq
A Richmond Marine Reserve unit is scheduled to return home tomorrow after serving in Iraq.
Hotel Battery, 3rd Battalion of the 14th Marine Regiment, is expected to arrive between 8 and 10 p.m. tomorrow at the Navy-Marine Reserve Center, 6000 Strathmore Road, said Gunnery Sgt. Terri Raso.
October 13, 2006
'Welcome home!' Staff Sgt. Daley
McKenzie, Sheyanne and Dakota Daley fidgeted at Exit 15, their little hearts pumping, eager to race to their daddy, Staff Sgt. Bernard (Bernie) Daley, who arrived at Dayton International Airport on Thursday afternoon after serving eight months in Iraq.
October 8, 2006
*Tankers bring a bit of Kentucky to Iraq
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Oct. 8, 2006) -- Nearly seven months ago, three Marines and one sailor assigned to 2nd Platoon, E Company , 4th Tank Battalion, a reservist unit headquartered at Fort Knox, Ky., bade their Kentucky home good night and deployed to Iraq as part of Regimental Combat Team 5.
Continue reading "*Tankers bring a bit of Kentucky to Iraq" »
October 3, 2006
Marines find signs of insurgents during souk operations
FALLUJAH, Iraq (Oct. 3, 2006) -- Marines recently spent most of their day searching and clearing the Souk District in the city. The district has a reputation for attacks on Coalition Forces by anti-Iraqi Forces.
Continue reading "Marines find signs of insurgents during souk operations" »
October 2, 2006
*Backstory: A softer side of the Marines
Marine Staff Sgt. Rudy Perez isn't due to get off duty until midnight, but by 7:30 this evening, his day feels complete.
"I see the weight lifted," says Sergeant Perez, watching a sedate but glowing reunion of wounded Cpl.Brian Smith and his family at the National Naval Medical Center.
Continue reading "*Backstory: A softer side of the Marines" »
September 29, 2006
Some 60 Lima Company Marine Reservists Have Left U.S. For The Mideast
Some 60 U.S. Marine reservists from Gray-based Lima Company, 3rd Battalion of the 24th Marine Regiment, have left the United States for eventual service in Iraq, a Marine Corps spokesman confirmed on Thursday.
Continue reading "Some 60 Lima Company Marine Reservists Have Left U.S. For The Mideast" »
Some 60 Lima Company Marine Reservists Have Left U.S. For The Mideast
Some 60 U.S. Marine reservists from Gray-based Lima Company, 3rd Battalion of the 24th Marine Regiment, have left the United States for eventual service in Iraq, a Marine Corps spokesman confirmed on Thursday.
Continue reading "Some 60 Lima Company Marine Reservists Have Left U.S. For The Mideast" »
September 28, 2006
*Heartache on the home front — Reservists’ families ‘can’t help but worry’
Although it’s only been a few days, it’s been a tough few days, said Jake Draugelis.
Continue reading "*Heartache on the home front — Reservists’ families ‘can’t help but worry’" »
September 26, 2006
*Marines depart for duty, Local reserve unit says goodbye to friends and family; deployment to Iraq in October expected to last seven months
FREDERICK -- Though the Marines who left Frederick early Monday would soon don uniforms and deploy to Iraq, for a short time that morning they weren't only Marines, but also sons, husbands, brothers and friends.
September 24, 2006
Trainers pass on hard lessons of combat
Vets draw on war background
When the men of the 1/24th Marines go into Iraq, they'll be led by quiet heroes and schooled by savvy veterans.
Continue reading "Trainers pass on hard lessons of combat" »
*Michigan's band of brothers
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif.
Flip through any Michigan phone book and you'll find the likes of the 1/24th Marines.
Note: There is a video associated with this article, click on the original link for viewing, as long as the link continues to work
*Michigan's band of brothers
TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif.
Flip through any Michigan phone book and you'll find the likes of the 1/24th Marines.
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*Marines in Fallujah provide eyes and ears for battalion
FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 24, 2006) -- A grunt’s work in Fallujah is never done.
When they’re not patrolling the streets or ridding the area of anti-Iraqi forces, they’re watching over fellow Marines to make sure that they can do the same.
Continue reading "*Marines in Fallujah provide eyes and ears for battalion" »
September 23, 2006
*Not for glory or fame, post gets fallen Marine’s name
FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 23, 2006) -- Sgt. Matthew J. Fenton continues to watch over Marines in Fallujah, even after he died from wounds sustained in combat Apr. 26. That’s because his fellow Marines named an observation post that serves to protect Marines in his honor.
Continue reading "*Not for glory or fame, post gets fallen Marine’s name" »
September 15, 2006
Address available for injured Ada marine
ADA — The family of the injured marine, Cody Hill, 23, Ada, has requested that any cards and letters sent to Cody be directed to the guest facilities at the Brooke Army Medical Center. LaDonna Hill, Cody’s mother, said “The address of the guesthouse is where to send mail to Cody to keep from overloading the medical center staff.” The address of the guesthouse is: Powless Guesthouse, 3298 George C. Beach Road, Fort Sam Houston, Tx 73234-7569.
Continue reading "Address available for injured Ada marine" »
September 14, 2006
President Bush Pays 4TH CAG Marines and Sailors an Honorable Visit on The Night They Deploy to Iraq
Naval District WashingtonNAVAL DISTRICT WASHINGTON, Washington D.C. – Marines and sailors of the 4th Civil Affairs Group (CAG) were surprised by a visit from President Bush on Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland the night of their deployment to Iraq.
September 13, 2006
2nd Recon Battalion Marines keep insurgents on the run during Operation Matador
FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 13, 2006) -- Recon Marines stepped out onto the streets of Fallujah with the keys to the city – bolt cutters and sledge hammers.
Continue reading "2nd Recon Battalion Marines keep insurgents on the run during Operation Matador" »
September 12, 2006
Cody Hill continues fight for life
ADA — Marine Lance Cpl. Cody Hill is fighting to recover from severe burns and wounds from shrapnel he sustained in Iraq on Sept. 4. The three other riders in the vehicle struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) were killed. Hill’s father Carlyle Hill is very emotional as he stays with his son at the Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, Texas.“Cody needs your thoughts and prayers. The families of the other three boys that didn’t make it also need prayers,” Carlyle said.
September 9, 2006
Care packages
Sometime in the next few weeks, 1st Sgt. Charles Delcourt of the First Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, stationed in Iraq, will receive a care package that will almost certainly bring a smile to his face.
September 6, 2006
*R.I. Marine hurt in Iraq
NORTH KINGSTOWN -- A 23-year-old Marine reservist from Rhode Island was injured in an attack in Iraq Monday and is being transported back to the United States, according to his father, North Kingstown Fire Chief David Murray.
September 1, 2006
3/14 finishes Mojave Viper, prepares mentally for Iraq
Sgt. Robert L. Fisher III A Marine with 3/14 aims in on suspicious activity during his watch into the first night of the final exercise during Mojave Viper on Monday.
Marines from various active and reserve units across the country joined to supplement Headquarters Battery, 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, as they prepared to deploy to Iraq as Provisional Military Police Battalion, Task Force MP, 3/14.
Continue reading "3/14 finishes Mojave Viper, prepares mentally for Iraq" »
Marines Gear Up To Serve Overseas
20 local Marines from Company "A", 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, based in Charleston, will head to Iraq Monday.
"I was on my lunch break at work and I got a call on my cell phone."
Cpl. Josh Sturgill wasn't the only one who got that phone call. Now, a handful of Marines from Company "A", 4th Combat Engineer Battalion in Charleston are prepping to head overseas.
Marines Gear Up To Serve Overseas
20 local Marines from Company "A", 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, based in Charleston, will head to Iraq Monday.
"I was on my lunch break at work and I got a call on my cell phone."
Cpl. Josh Sturgill wasn't the only one who got that phone call. Now, a handful of Marines from Company "A", 4th Combat Engineer Battalion in Charleston are prepping to head overseas.
August 28, 2006
Company B Ready For Active Duty In Iraq
A group of U.S. Marines based in South Bend is preparing to go back to the front lines of the war in Iraq.
Continue reading "Company B Ready For Active Duty In Iraq" »
August 25, 2006
Iraq-Bound, Without Reservations
The Danger Level Is High, But So Is D.C.-Based Marine Unit's Determination
The Marines already are saying their goodbyes. The 4th Civil Affairs Group, a reserve unit based in Washington, is leaving for Iraq -- again.
August 20, 2006
Marines awarded Silver Stars for actions in Iraq
COLUMBUS, Ohio --A Marine killed last year in a gun battle in Iraq and another who was wounded in a roadside bombing that killed two of his comrades were awarded Silver Stars at a ceremony Sunday.
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August 18, 2006
Reserve Marines train with Colombian Marines
TOMACO, Colombia - (Aug. 18, 2006) -- Marines of from Tucson, Ariz., Bulk Fuel Company Alpha, 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group, arrived in Tomaco, Colombia, from Tucson, Ariz., for their annual training exercise Aug. 3. This excercise focused on the Expedient Refueling System (ERS) training and assistance to the Colombian Marines’ Riverine Battalion No. 70.
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August 17, 2006
Military exercise in Tanzania benefits villagers
By Joseph Giordono, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, August 18, 2006
MSATA, Tanzania — Howling village dancers and U.S. troops, along with a young man clenching a snake in his mouth, helped mark the climax of a regional anti-terrorism and disaster relief exercise in East Africa on Thursday.
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August 15, 2006
Justice Department Presents Web Site to Explain Military Rights
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15, 2006 – The Department of Justice has launched a Web site to protect servicemembers’ rights, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzalez said yesterday.
Continue reading "Justice Department Presents Web Site to Explain Military Rights" »
Guard Force constantly watching to safeguard camp
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (Aug. 12, 2006) -- Marines at this walled-in camp here rest easy knowing they’ve got another Marine standing strong and keeping all dangers at bay.
Marines from the Guard Force section, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, man several posts around the camp’s outer wall. They maintain a safe environment inside and allow the battalion to work without worry of enemy attack.
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August 7, 2006
Ready to make a difference: Lansing's Charlie Company primed to serve in Iraq
Brian Alexander's life has been moving fast.
On Friday morning, the Lansing man reviewed how to handle detainees and to protect fellow Marines from enemy fire, a booming instructor's voice warning him never to hesitate.
Continue reading "Ready to make a difference: Lansing's Charlie Company primed to serve in Iraq" »
August 5, 2006
Family Of Local Marine Paints Huge American Flag On Barn
The roof of a 1910-vintage barn in Greene County’s Glendale community has been transformed into a patriotic tribute to U.S. military personnel serving in Iraq.
The family of Lance Cpl. Brandon Ward spent July painting a 43-foot by 23-foot American flag on the roof of his grandfather’s barn near the intersection of Buckingham Road and Laughlin Road. Ward, a U.S. Marine reservist, will leave soon for service in Iraq.
Continue reading "Family Of Local Marine Paints Huge American Flag On Barn" »
August 4, 2006
Income-Replacement Program Launched for Mobilized Reservists, Guardsmen
WASHINGTON, Aug. 4, 2006 – The Defense Department this month kicked off a program to help prevent activated reservists and National Guardsmen from facing financial hardships.
Continue reading "Income-Replacement Program Launched for Mobilized Reservists, Guardsmen" »
August 3, 2006
Local Marines destined for Iraq
Four Eastern Upper Peninsula men are part of a group of 200 U.S. Marine Reserves making their last visit to Michigan before being deployed into the Iraq conflict.
“We've been training in California since June 1,” said LCpl. Jacob Green of Sugar Island regarding his unit - Bravo Company First Battalion/24th Marines out of Saginaw.
Marine injured in Iraq blast
A Medford resident in Iraq recently spent two days being treated for injuries after an Improvised Explosive Device blew up the vehicle he was driving.
Stephen McLaughlin was driving a Humvee down a road near Fallujah, one he had driven down many times, when he saw a pothole that was "bigger than it was before," said his father, Joseph McLaughlin, who spoke to his son by satellite phone last week
A grim anniversary
Local Marines were killed in Iraq a year ago today
Tears and laughter will echo through the rooms of a farmhouse near Hillsboro today.
Parents united in grief will gather in this rural spot in Highland County to celebrate the lives of the sons they lost a year ago in Iraq.
In Ohio, Marines' Deaths Still Felt
BROOK PARK, Ohio (AP) - Their deaths shook a nation that had grown used to the slowly mounting U.S. military casualties in Iraq. A year ago this week, 14 members of the suburban-Cleveland based 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines died in attacks a day apart. The blue-collar suburb's loss drew worldwide mourning. Some say it was a pivotal moment that changed public opinion of the war; others say it strengthened the resolve of military families.
July 29, 2006
Local Marines' deployment delayed
FREDERICK-- Local Marines preparing to head to Iraq this fall are among the units delayed in getting there.
Originally scheduled to deploy in September and return in May, the Marines will probably deploy in October and come home in late May, the unit's spokesman, Capt. Christian Devine, said Friday
July 28, 2006
Marine sends love from Iraq
Samantha, Flores' wife, got the surprise of her life when her husband sent a personalized video that was displayed on the big screen and a large bouquet of flowers at a JackHammers game June 25.
"I teared up and displayed one of the biggest smiles, and that was the biggest surprise I ever had," she said.
July 25, 2006
Anti-Terrorism Bn. conducts training exercise
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - (July 25, 2006) -- Marines with Headquarters and Support Company, Anti-Terrorism Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, participated in a command post exercise here July 25, in preparation for upcoming deployments to Iraq early next year.
Continue reading "Anti-Terrorism Bn. conducts training exercise" »
Marines' early-morning raid uncovers weapons, Iraqi hostages
By Monte Morin, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, July 25, 2006
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq — The hostages sat shackled in a cinder-block cavity beneath the desert floor.
Continue reading "Marines' early-morning raid uncovers weapons, Iraqi hostages" »
July 24, 2006
Marines rescue three hostages, uncover weapons caches in Operation Spotlight
-A group of Marines from 1st Battalion, 25 Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, move an insurgent rocket found while conducting Operation Spotlight. The operation took place in the Fuhaylat, south of Fallujah, Iraq where three hostages were rescued and several weapons caches were located and destroyed by Marines.
Continue reading "Marines rescue three hostages, uncover weapons caches in Operation Spotlight" »
July 23, 2006
Marines go insurgent-hunting in Fallujah
By Monte Morin, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, July 23, 2006
FALLUJAH, Iraq — It was the same old trap, different day.
Continue reading "Marines go insurgent-hunting in Fallujah" »
July 20, 2006
Spreading the gospel of America
With a stereo and songs from home, Marine in Iraq preaches 'Americantology'
By Monte Morin, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, July 21, 2006
FALLUJAH, Iraq — Sure, there are no atheists in foxholes, but just what’s a modern-day grunt supposed to believe in when all the foxholes have been replaced by Humvees?
Memory of Iraq is missing
Wounded area Marine in VA hospital gets upset at inability to recall tour, mom says
Day by day, Marine Lance Cpl. Bryan Carpenter is remembering more.
Fallujah amusement park now a no-fun zone
Marines inspect park once used as insurgent staging area
By Monte Morin, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, July 20, 2006
FALLUJAH, Iraq — As any Marine will tell you, Iraq is no walk in the park.
Continue reading "Fallujah amusement park now a no-fun zone" »
July 18, 2006
Marines from Indiana leave to train for Iraq mission
South Bend -- Almost 200 Marine reservists from Indiana and other states are headed to California to train for a seven-month mission in Iraq.
The men and women of Bravo Company of the South Bend-based 6th Engineer Support Battalion left Friday for California, where they will train until their deployment in late August, said Maj. Patrick Trimble, who will command the unit during its tour in Iraq.
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July 17, 2006
Task Force MP proves change is no problem
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (July 15, 2006) -- The change from an artillery battalion to a military police battery took two years of training, but the Marines and sailors of Hotel Battery 3rd battalion 14th Marines say it was no problem.
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July 16, 2006
Preparing for Iraq, it's ready, aim ... fire?
In searing desert heat, 150 Grand Rapids-based Marines work their way through an Iraqi village.
Continue reading "Preparing for Iraq, it's ready, aim ... fire?" »
July 10, 2006
‘New England’s Own’ remembers fallen Marine
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq - Lance Cpl. Joseph E. Donaher, assigned to Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, pays his final respects to a fallen brother, Cpl. Paul N. King, during a memorial service held July 6 at Camp Baharia, Iraq. King, 24, from Tyngsboro, Mass., was killed in action June 25, by small arms fire in Fallujah, Iraq.
Continue reading "‘New England’s Own’ remembers fallen Marine" »
Local Soldiers Leave For Iraq
ORLANDO, Fla. -- There were some tears shed at the Armed Forces Reserve Center in Orlando on Friday morning as dozens of families bid their loved ones farewell.
More than 40 Marine reservists left for Iraq after saying goodbye to their families, WESH 2 News reported.
150 Susquehanna Valley Troops Leave For Iraq
It was an emotional goodbye, as 150 Marine reservists left Reading early Saturday morning.
"It's tough. The little ones don't know what's going on. Really all she knows is that daddy has to go to work," said Sgt. Jason Burke, of Reading.
Continue reading "150 Susquehanna Valley Troops Leave For Iraq" »
July 9, 2006
Marines stretch limits during aquatic drills
HANOVER -- Lance Cpl. Egbert Fields was one of 75 Marines who spent hours in the Morris Center YMCA pool Saturday, working hard to meet the Marine Corps swimming requirements. He faced an extra challenge.
Continue reading "Marines stretch limits during aquatic drills" »
Marines deploy for east Africa
Families give reservists an early morning send-off
More than 40 Marine reservists tore away from their loved ones at the crack of dawn Saturday for a deployment halfway across the globe.
Lubbock Marines Begin Seven Month Tour Of Duty
It's a bitter sweet day for the families of 39 Lubbock Marine Reservists.
Continue reading "Lubbock Marines Begin Seven Month Tour Of Duty" »
July 8, 2006
Local Marines Head Off to Iraq
- -And Iraq is on the minds of local men and women in uniform and their loved ones.
Marines left the armory in Northeast Philadelphia Saturday - bound for a marine base in California - then to Iraq.
Philadelphia firefighter Tom Verros is a Marine sergeant. He has been to Iraq once already and says their mission has purpose.
July 7, 2006
Marines keep Iraq’s waterways safe
HADITHA, Iraq (July 7, 2006) -- In Iraq, a country where temperatures often soar above 110 degrees and terrain is mostly fine grains of sand, Cpl. Derek Metallo never thought he’d find himself patrolling Al Anbar province in a boat when he arrived three months ago.
Marines Head to Iraq
Eight Marines from our area are making their way south. There the men based in Luzerne County will prepare for their trip to Iraq.
The men, based out of Wyoming Borough, said so long to loved ones around 7 a.m. Friday.
DoD Makes Changes to Qualifications for TRICARE Reserve Select
The Department of Defense announced today the eligibility determination period for the new TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) program, and as a result, every member of the selected reserve will now have the option to purchase their health coverage from TRICARE.
Continue reading "DoD Makes Changes to Qualifications for TRICARE Reserve Select" »
July 4, 2006
Friend or foe? Michigan Marines learn to tell difference
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (AP) -- The Marine levels his M-249 Squad Automated Weapon at the man running across the rooftop. "There's an insurgent!" he screams.
Continue reading "Friend or foe? Michigan Marines learn to tell difference" »
July 1, 2006
Marines keep battalion rolling
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (July 1, 2006) -- Marines are known for their dedication to duty and hard work, completing the mission no matter what it takes.
Take an 11-man team working in temperatures rising above 100 degrees, put them in charge of maintaining hundreds of vehicles, and watch them produce much more than sweat and greasy hands at the end of the day.
June 30, 2006
Former Marine Comes Back After 21-Year Break
Ramadi, Iraq - New York City Police Department Detective Evan L. Schwerner had nearly 21 years off active duty in the Marine Corps when in the four-year wake of Sept. 11, 2001, he decided he could better serve his family and country in the global war on terror as a Marine in Iraq.
Continue reading "Former Marine Comes Back After 21-Year Break" »
June 29, 2006
4th Force Recon Jumps 'Down Under' During Southern Canopy 2006
This High Altitude High Opening jump was one of many conducted by 4th Force Reconnaissance Company recently during Southern Canopy 2006, a bilateral training exercise with the Royal Australian Armed Forces and U.S. Marine Corps in Nowra, located in New South Wales.
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June 28, 2006
Reservists bear heavy burden in war’s 4th year
FALLUJAH, Iraq - Unlike many Marines in this dangerous city, Staff Sgt. George Scott could have said “no.” He could have stayed home in Ohio with his two young sons.
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June 26, 2006
Perimeter patrol teams scan desert to keep Al Asad secure
AL ASAD, Iraq - A humvee cruises up a dusty slope during a perimeter patrol June 21. Being the primary source of transportation for the Marines of the Perimeter Patrol Teams with 2nd Platoon, E Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Wing Support Group 37 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, the humvee helps them accomplish their responsibilities of keeping the surrounding areas around Al Asad secure and free of any threats.
Continue reading "Perimeter patrol teams scan desert to keep Al Asad secure" »
June 20, 2006
Diamondback 3 ensures Al Asad's security through mounted patrols
A humvee filled with Marines conducting a mounted combat patrol cruises through the desert of Iraq during the setting sun near Al Asad, Iraq, June 15. The Marines are with the mounted combat patrol team Diamondback 3 under 1st Platoon, Echo Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, Marine Wing Support Group 37 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
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Continue reading "Diamondback 3 ensures Al Asad's security through mounted patrols" »
June 17, 2006
A quick hello, one sweet surprise
Marines speak to kin from Iraq.
Sergeant Mark Sabourin never knows what to expect as a radio supervisor for the Marines in the deserts of Fallujah, except the relentless heat and the possibility of attack. His unit trains Iraqi security forces, and clashes with insurgents are frequent. They lost a member in a suicide bombing last month. Surprises are usually unwelcome in Sabourin's wartime life.
Marine sends dad an early Father's Day gift...over the radio
LYNN-Carlos Noyola received an early Father's Day gift when his son, Marine Private First Class Carlos Noyola Jr., gave a shout out to him dad during an early morning radio show Friday. Unfortunately he missed it.
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Area Marines return from summer adventure
The last time Bossier City-based Bravo Co., 1/23rd Marines met in a bedraggled group at Barksdale Air Force Base's Hoban Hall, it was after seven arduous months of combat and bloodshed in Iraq.
Continue reading "Area Marines return from summer adventure" »
June 16, 2006
39 Marines are 'on the deck'
NACO, Ariz. — Under a hot sun, Marine reservists from Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion are working hard improving a dirt road, preparing low water crossings and installing fences along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Marine reservists lend a hand to Border Patrol at Naco
NACO — Sometime later this year, 27-year-old Cpl. Tim Edwards of Fremont, Wis., will enter a seminary in St. Louis to begin pursuing his goal of becoming a Lutheran minister.
In the meantime, he’s getting a jump start on his career in community service as U.S. Marine reservist with Company C, 6th Engineer Support Battalion.
Continue reading "Marine reservists lend a hand to Border Patrol at Naco" »
June 15, 2006
Lubbock Marines Prepare for Deployment
41 Marine reservists will be deployed from Lubbock to Iraq this summer. NewsChannel 11followed the Marines today as they began preparing for their leave at the Reserve Center. The group is part of Lubbock's Direct Support Motor Transport Company.
June 5, 2006
Fort Detrick Marines called to serve in Iraq
Marines with Bravo Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, will leave Fort Detrick in Frederick Monday for Camp Lejeune, N.C. There they will receive three months of intensive training in riverboat operations, before being deployed to Iraq for approximately one year.
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Local Marine Reserve Unit Called to Active Duty
PERRYSBURG -- The United States Marine Corps has called local Reserve Marines to active duty, according to a statement released by the Unites States Marine Corps Thursday. They'll serve in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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Marines deploy for Iraq
Fifty Marines left Knoxville today after being activated in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Marine reservists, who are assigned to Delta Company, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, left by bus this morning for Lynchburg, Va., to join their sister company, Charlie.
Local Marines leave for Iraq
KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- After a morning full of goodbyes, dozens of East Tennessee Marines left Monday for a tour of duty in Iraq.
Local Marines leave for Iraq
KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- After a morning full of goodbyes, dozens of East Tennessee Marines left Monday for a tour of duty in Iraq.
June 4, 2006
Marines joining Reserve after active-duty to get war reprieve
By Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, June 4, 2006
ARLINGTON, Va. — To get Marines to join the Reserves after active duty, the Marine Corps is promising not to deploy them for two years, the Marine Corps has announced.
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June 3, 2006
Family Day
It was a day for some local Marines to spend quality time with their families.
Members of Company K, a Marine Reserve Unit based in Terre Haute, will leave next week for active duty. Today, the group held a family day at Fowler Park, for some family fun before they head overseas. The families took part in a cook-out and played some games.
Family Day
It was a day for some local Marines to spend quality time with their families.
Members of Company K, a Marine Reserve Unit based in Terre Haute, will leave next week for active duty. Today, the group held a family day at Fowler Park, for some family fun before they head overseas. The families took part in a cook-out and played some games.
June 2, 2006
Marines combine skills to fight in city
FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 30, 2006) -- Rooting out insurgents in the rural farmlands west of Fallujah is quite a different task than the same thing in the densely packed city streets. It’s a change of pace two companies worth of Marines are learning in beefed up operations here.
Continue reading "Marines combine skills to fight in city" »
Marines based in Knoxville headed to Iraq
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. Marine officials said today about 50 Marine reservists from a Knoxville-based engineering battalion will leave next week for training before deploying to Iraq.
Members of the Delta Company, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, plan to leave Monday for Lynchburg, Virginia
Continue reading "Marines based in Knoxville headed to Iraq" »
May 31, 2006
150 in area Marine Reserve unit to begin training for Iraq tour
Battery includes Lehigh Valley troops. They'll go overseas in 4 months.
An area Marine Reserve unit departs today for North Carolina to begin training that will culminate in an imposing mission: security detail at an American military base in one of Iraq's most volatile provinces.
Continue reading "150 in area Marine Reserve unit to begin training for Iraq tour" »
A group of American Marine reservists based in Reading is headed to Iraq.
About 150 Marines from Battery I left this morning for training. The unit is reporting for duty with its parent command, the 3rd Battalion 14th Marines. For most of the Marines, it will be their first deployment.
(At the bottom of this article is information about PA's Military Family Relief)
Continue reading "A group of American Marine reservists based in Reading is headed to Iraq." »
May 30, 2006
"Support Our Troops" not merely a slogan
RED BANK — A young Marine who almost made the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield in Iraq got a heartfelt "thank-you" Monday from people helping him on the road to recovery.
Continue reading ""Support Our Troops" not merely a slogan" »
May 28, 2006
FOR CONNECTICUT MARINES, THE ENEMY IS EVERYWHERE
FALLUJAH, Iraq -- The Marines are filthy and tired and act hard, like they've been here two years instead of two months.
Continue reading "FOR CONNECTICUT MARINES, THE ENEMY IS EVERYWHERE" »
Run Held to Honor Marines
Vietnam Veteran Steve Bozeman, Staff Sergeant John Glaister, and First Sergeant Rick Caisse ran twenty miles on Saturday, May 20, 2006, with a Healing Field American flag purchased from the Exchange Club of Lynchburg in order to honor those five Marines from Company C in Lynchburg who were killed in Iraq last year.
Men of Lima Co. 'all changed, forever'
COLUMBUS - As Jim Dyer of Evendale walked into a dark theater here Tuesday night to watch a film on Lima Company, his son's Marine Reserve unit, what he wanted more than anything was the one thing he could not have ... his son Christopher at his side.
Instead, what he saw was his son on a movie screen in a short, choppy piece of videotape from a hand-held camera, an image of a handsome, gap-toothed Marine relaxing with his brother Marines in bivouac, strumming a guitar and singing "Puff the Magic Dragon."
May 24, 2006
‘What doesn’t kill you,only makes you stronger’
Keegan Winkeller is a local. He’s an employee, a son and a brother. He’s also a Marine and by the end of this summer, he will be a soldier in Iraq.
Continue reading "‘What doesn’t kill you,only makes you stronger’" »
Terre Haute North Patriots pay tribute to U.S. Marine Reserve Unit
Its tan-painted sides and red roof are made of mild carbon steel, with a center steel pole braced with four large bolts at its base. And at 100 pounds, it’s not a typical mailbox.
Continue reading "Terre Haute North Patriots pay tribute to U.S. Marine Reserve Unit" »
May 22, 2006
Mike Battery (4/14) Iraq Bound
About 14 months ago, 150 members of Mike Battery returned home after a tour of duty in Iraq.
Today, 33 members of the Marine Reserve Unit leave Chattanooga to eventually serve in the war-torn country.
One of the marines served during the previous deployment.
The unit heads to Pennsylvania for training this afternoon.
Their deployment to Iraq is expected to last seven months.
WDEF News
Monday, May 22, 2006
May 20, 2006
`Eager, ready, proud' to serve West Michigan Marines prepare for urban fighting in Iraq
GRAND RAPIDS -- They figured this day would come.
But to about 150 West Michigan Marine Reserves, it is official: They are to be activated in early June, sent to California for training and then to Iraq.
May 16, 2006
Sergeant still looking out for his Marines
Gunny Bowman is still looking out for his Marines.
Saturday he was doing it with a cell phone rather than a rifle and at the Zanesfield Rod and Gun Club rather than in Iraq.
Continue reading "Sergeant still looking out for his Marines" »
May 6, 2006
Marine artillery unit serves as infantry in Iraq
FORT WORTH -- Lance Cpl. Danny Studdard is an artilleryman by trade and training.
But it's been 18 months since he's worked with 155 mm howitzers, and by his own admission, he might not be any good at putting steel on target anymore.
Continue reading "Marine artillery unit serves as infantry in Iraq" »
Marine artillery unit serves as infantry in Iraq
FORT WORTH -- Lance Cpl. Danny Studdard is an artilleryman by trade and training.
But it's been 18 months since he's worked with 155 mm howitzers, and by his own admission, he might not be any good at putting steel on target anymore.
Continue reading "Marine artillery unit serves as infantry in Iraq" »
May 5, 2006
Dramatic Reality Documentary COMBAT DIARY THE MARINES OF LIMA COMPANY Announced - Iraq War
An Emotional Two-Hour Documentary Featuring Video Shot by the Marines of Lima Company - the Hardest Hit Unit in the Iraq War
April 30, 2006
Marine invasion - for a good cause
Volunteers landscape injured Iraq vet's yard, bring him a new Harley
Dan Priestley got a home makeover, Marine Corps-style.
The staff sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserves was confused when his wife, Lisa, woke him at 7:30 Saturday morning. But the confusion dissipated when he saw retired Marines arriving on motorcycles with heavy equipment to work on the front and back yards of his Parma home.
April 28, 2006
Iraqi Army hones combat leadership the Marine Corps way
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (April 28, 2006) -- Iraqi Army soldiers are paying close attention to what the Marines have to say here. They’re teaching them not just to be better soldiers, but to lead men in combat.
Marines and sailors from 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5, recently trained several Iraqi soldiers successful tactics during a ten-day Combat Squad Leaders Course. It’s an on-going effort Marines continue to run at this small base just outside Fallujah, Iraq.
Continue reading "Iraqi Army hones combat leadership the Marine Corps way" »
April 27, 2006
Families welcome Marines back from Iraq
GALVESTON — One of many messages inscribed on the car windows said it all: “My Marine is home.”
Family members stood with cameras in hand Wednesday afternoon as about 30 Marines climbed out of a Trailways bus at the reserve center in Galveston.
Continue reading "Families welcome Marines back from Iraq" »
April 11, 2006
Fort Detrick Marines prepare to head to Iraq
FREDERICK -- Marines stationed at Fort Detrick spent Monday morning in the base's Henry O. Tuell Dome, getting acquainted with IVs and bandages as part of a combat lifesaving course. The Bravo Company, 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, will deploy to Iraq in September.
Continue reading "Fort Detrick Marines prepare to head to Iraq" »
Local Marines Come Home
They've been in iraq for seven months, many serving in dangerous frontline roles in the war on terror. But tonight a group of Marine reservists based here in Reno came home, and were met with cheers, tears and open arms.
April 9, 2006
A heartfelt welcome for Marines
Families greet unit that recently returned from 7-month duty tour in Iraq.
Already bright-eyed at 5:30 a.m., 7-year-old Brandon Tuite dashed around the Marine Reserve Center gym, drop-kicking a worn volleyball. It wasn't cartoons or promises of Easter candy that had dragged him and his siblings out of bed three hours earlier — it was something even better.
April 7, 2006
Back from Iraq, safely and joyously
SEAL BEACH – For Craig Thomas Jr., it started with a high school pact that led him to the Marine Corps and then to Iraq. Thursday afternoon, the Laguna Niguel resident was back home, his family's long history of wartime service extended by another generation.
1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment arrives in Iraq
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (April 6, 2006) -- Marines from “New England’s Own” are walking the beat in Fallujah.
Marines from 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment arrived here recently and took control of a large portion of Fallujah. They will be focusing on training the Iraqi Security Forces and conducting counter-insurgency operations for Regimental Combat Team 5.
Continue reading "1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment arrives in Iraq" »
April 1, 2006
Deployment makes for family reunion
CAMP BAHARIA, Iraq (April 1, 2006) -- The Torrey brothers didn’t exactly choose the same exotic, foreign location to catch up on old times. The Marine Corps took care of all that when the two Springfield, Mass., brothers met up here.
March 29, 2006
Indiana reserve unit to return to Iraq
(This is 4th MLG, 6th ESB)
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- More than 100 members of an Indiana Marine reserve unit are preparing to return to Iraq.
First Sgt. Robert Rhodes said 125 members of the Engineer Company B, based in South Bend, will be called to duty on June 15, but the date they depart for Iraq has not been set. The Marines will first train at Camp Pendleton in California.
Waterloo-based Marine unit to head back home to Iowa
DES MOINES, Iowa About one-hundred-and-ten Marines from a Waterloo-based unit are returning home after spending six months in a dangerous region of Iraq.
Continue reading "Waterloo-based Marine unit to head back home to Iowa" »
March 27, 2006
1/14 leaves Combat Center, joins War on Terror
After spending nearly three months aboard the Combat Center training for a deployment to Iraq, 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, began their departure over a two week period beginning March 15.
Continue reading "1/14 leaves Combat Center, joins War on Terror" »
‘New England's Own' heads to Al Anbar
First Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, arrived at the Combat Center Jan. 4, to train for their upcoming deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Tribute Paid To Fallen Marines In Marshall County
KILO Company gives tribute to four men who gave the ultimate sacrifice to their country last year.
Continue reading "Tribute Paid To Fallen Marines In Marshall County" »
March 26, 2006
Combat ready
FORT PICKETT - As Lance Cpl. Michael Tocci shows the new Marines in Company C how to put together a machine gun, they laugh nervously.
“You’ll be living and eating weapons,” he explains.
Company That Lost 16 Marines In Iraq Deployed Again
Hard-Hit Unit Gets New Assignment
UPDATED: 10:58 am EST March 26, 2006
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A hard-hit Marine company that lost 16 members in Iraq last year will be deployed to Chad, an African nation dealing with rebel violence within its own borders and in neighboring Sudan.
Continue reading "Company That Lost 16 Marines In Iraq Deployed Again" »
March 23, 2006
Marines' families welcome heroes home from Iraq
MIDDLETOWN — When a State Police escort led the charter bus through the Newman Springs Road intersection onto Half Mile Road on Wednesday, a cluster of people waved signs and flags and cheered like they were greeting visiting rock stars.
Continue reading "Marines' families welcome heroes home from Iraq" »
Families, friends cheer Marines' homecoming
The breath that Richard Jacobs had been holding since his son left for Iraq last year rushed from his lungs in a relieved and elated whoop Wednesday.
Continue reading "Families, friends cheer Marines' homecoming" »
March 22, 2006
Marines Return Home To Lubbock From Iraq
It was a happy day for several families on the South Plains as six local marines came home from Iraq.
More than 30 people showed up on Wednesday at the Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport to welcome home the marines who just spent the past six months in Iraq. The soldiers say they`re proud of the work they did in the Middle East. Their families say they`re glad to have them home.
Continue reading "Marines Return Home To Lubbock From Iraq" »
March 18, 2006
More than 70 Valley Marines to be deployed to Iraq
Once again, Wabash Valley Marines will have to part with their families as more than 70 Marines will leave for imminent deployment to Iraq.
Continue reading "More than 70 Valley Marines to be deployed to Iraq" »
March 16, 2006
Marines Return Home as the 3 Year Anniversary of the War in Iraq Approaches
This weekend marks the third anniversary of the war in Iraq.
There are several ways to measure the time that has passed. You can do so by the number of casualties, the number of schools built, or by what it means to the family's of those that serve.
Continue reading "Marines Return Home as the 3 Year Anniversary of the War in Iraq Approaches" »
March 13, 2006
Fort Wayne-area Marines returning from Iraq
Seven of the approximately 29 members of Detachment 1 Communications Company, Marine Corps Reserve, scheduled to return to Indiana on Monday are from the Fort Wayne area. The company has been deployed for five months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Continue reading "Fort Wayne-area Marines returning from Iraq" »
March 9, 2006
Marines reservists training downtown
March 9, 2006 - Expect to see men and women in uniform and their Humvees in Toledo over the next few days.
March 8, 2006
Marines train Nigerian troops
CAMP TAHOUA, Niger (Mar. 8, 2006) -- A company of Milwaukee, Wis. based reserve Marines taught Nigerian soldiers the basics of security and stability operations (SASO) during exercise Shared Accord 06.
March 7, 2006
Company C headed back to Iraq
The Lynchburg-based Marine reserve unit that lost five members during its tour in Iraq last year has been reactivated.
The Company C, 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, which has about 150 reservists, will send 45 Marines to Iraq in early summer. The group will train in California before deploying.
March 5, 2006
Marines hit the beach
GULFPORT - Standing on the beach in Gulfport on Saturday under clear, sunny skies, both the hurricane and the war in Iraq were a distant thought for some of the Marines - such as Cpl. Zach Schudrowitz - of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, 4th Amphibious Assault Battalion.
Reservists answer call to Hot Zone
While American military units have shuffled in and out of Iraq for the past three years, a Marine reserve unit headquartered in Alameda has sat quietly by, waiting to be sent into the fray.
Until now.
March 1, 2006
Sweet tooth, Sweet returns, Key Volunteers 'Returning Heroes Fund' proves successful
INDIAN HEAD, Md. (March 1, 2006) -- Key Volunteers from the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF) didn't realize how many Marines and Sailors at the unit had a sweet tooth until they sold $430 worth of baked goods March 1st.
February 24, 2006
4th MEB to deactivate
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N. C. (Feb. 24, 2006) -- The 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Anti- Terrorism) will disband in a ceremony held here Friday.
The components that make up 4th MEB (AT) will be reorganized to better enable the Marine Corps to fight and win the Global War on Terror.
The MEB is currently comprised of five subordinate units, each with a specific mission and tailored capabilities.
January 25, 2006
'Wild Goose' hosts 4th MAW leaders in Iraq
AL ASAD, Iraq(Jan. 25, 2006) -- Marines and Sailors from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 recently received a very personal message of appreciation.
Brigadier Gen. R. David Papak, the commanding general of 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, and Sgt. Maj. Jimmy D. Cummings, the Wing sergeant major, visited the Wild Geese of HMM-774, Jan. 18, at Al Asad, Iraq. The visit was much more than just a trip to inspect the front lines, Papak said.
Continue reading "'Wild Goose' hosts 4th MAW leaders in Iraq" »
Public gives area Marines big sendoff
With gentle pats and kisses, Rose Jackson comforted her 5-month old granddaughter Destinie as the infant, clad in a pink sleeper, peered at a group of U.S. Marines at the D.A. Carson Marine Corps Training Center.
The baby may not have been able to find her uncle, U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Justin William Jackson, amid the other camouflage uniforms, but she was in the crowd of other family members, friends and well-wishers gathered to offer handshakes and encouraging words to Jackson and 29 area Marines during a Tuesday afternoon departure ceremony.
Marine reserves prepare to fill ranks in Iraq
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif(Jan. 25, 2006) -- As another rotation of Marine forces are deploying to Iraq, Marine reserves from around the country will be filling the ranks and heading to combat operations with their active-duty counterparts.
Continue reading "Marine reserves prepare to fill ranks in Iraq" »
A Marine by any other name is still a Marine
QUANTICO, Va. — The Marine Reservist from Valdosta has grown used to the funny looks and sarcastic questions.
No, there is no mistake on Gunnery Sgt. Mike Marine's uniform. His last name really is Marine.
Continue reading "A Marine by any other name is still a Marine" »
Reservists Begin Journey To Iraq
The long trip to Iraq started early Wednesday morning for some Marine reservists in Orlando.
January 24, 2006
Newlywed Iraq bound
Marriage, fatherhood, then Marine service for policeman
By the time Sgt. Kenny Bates is able to hold his 3 month old son again, his son will be over a year old.
Sgt. Bates began active duty for the Marine Reserves on Dec. 1. On Jan 1, he headed down to train at 29 Palms with the First Battalion, Fourteenth Marines stationed out of Alameda. He is scheduled to be deployed to Iraq sometime in early spring.
Euless, Texas, brothers work together in Iraq
CAMP AL QA’IM, Iraq(Jan. 23, 2006) -- A Marine is never alone because around them at all times are fellow Marines taking care of them, watching their back and making sure they get home. Every Marine is a brother or sister to another Marine. (14th Marine Reg attached to 3/6)
Continue reading "Euless, Texas, brothers work together in Iraq" »
January 20, 2006
4thMarDiv CG links up with units at Combat Center
Maj. Gen. Douglas V. O'Dell, 4th Marine Division commanding general, speaks with his Marines from Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment Jan. 13 aboard the Combat Center.
(1/14 and 1/25)
Continue reading "4thMarDiv CG links up with units at Combat Center" »
January 19, 2006
Local reservists to be deployed
About 20 members of the local Marine Corps Reserve Unit have been activated for deployment. The Marines are members of Charlie Company, 4th Landing Support Battalion.
January 15, 2006
Long arm of military law reaches Iraq
AL ASAD, Iraq (Jan. 15, 2006) -- Standing guard against insurgents and writing speeding tickets for service members is all in a day's work for military policemen at Al Asad, Iraq. 5/14
January 14, 2006
Artillery to MP's, 1/14 trains aboard Combat Center
Regardless of a Marine's military occupational specialty, filling the needs of the Marine Corps is the number one priority. One recently activated battalion is well aware of this priority. They are training for a mission outside their MOS.
Continue reading "Artillery to MP's, 1/14 trains aboard Combat Center" »
January 13, 2006
A commanding figure, at home and in Iraq
On the day before Marine Reserve Col. Mike Pannell returned to one of the most important jobs in Iraq, Gahanna’s Lincoln Elementary kids, sitting crisscross applesauce, took a shot at him in the auditorium.
They asked whether he was able to take a shower, whether he got sunburned, whether he saw snakes.
If only those were his biggest problems.
Continue reading "A commanding figure, at home and in Iraq" »
Report On 3/25 Marine Deaths To Remain Classified
Kucinich Hopes To Get Answers For Marine Families
Continue reading "Report On 3/25 Marine Deaths To Remain Classified" »
January 5, 2006
Marines answer the call of duty
TOPSHAM — Tuesday at 0700 hours — 7 a.m. to civilians — 55 young Marines lined up in three rows in a cold warehouse for roll call. 1/25 A Co
January 3, 2006
Show of confidence
JOLIET — Marine reservists leaving Joliet on Monday expressed a variety of emotions for the journey that will take them to Iraq.
Band of cousins bound for war in Iraq
Among about 120 Marine reservists from Massachusetts who begin a year of active duty this morning that will take them to the war in Iraq, three have a special bond. They are a band of cousins, among the younger members of two companies scheduled to leave Devens Reserve Forces Training Area before sunrise today. 1/25
January 2, 2006
Bay Area Marines set off for duty in IraqBy
Some 180 Bay Area Marines are about to get their first taste of combat in Iraq -- at last. (1/14)
Continue reading "Bay Area Marines set off for duty in IraqBy" »
December 31, 2005
LA fireman builds career around selfless service
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Dec. 31, 2005) -- When his unit was activated, Sgt. David A. Arellano, watch chief, 5th Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment, was faced with the difficult decision: should he remain behind fighting fires or deploy to Iraq with Marines he has served with for more than eight years?
Continue reading "LA fireman builds career around selfless service" »
December 29, 2005
Local Marine Reserve Units Being Deployed To Iraq
1/25 A Co
55 reserve marines based in Topsham will soon begin training for a tour in Iraq, after being called to active duty
Continue reading "Local Marine Reserve Units Being Deployed To Iraq" »
December 27, 2005
Waterloo Marine Reserve unit OK in Iraq
WATERLOO --- The Cedar Valley has received a Christmas card from a member of Waterloo's Marine Reserve C Battery unit in Iraq.
Continue reading "Waterloo Marine Reserve unit OK in Iraq" »
December 26, 2005
Local Marines called to duty
New England’s only Marine Reserve combat force — a storied grunt battalion manned by local cops, jakes, tradesmen and professionals — has been called to the fight in Iraq.
1/25 A Co
December 25, 2005
Media relations part of Marines' training for Iraq
DEVENS, Mass. Marine reservists from Nashua (New Hampshire) were among the Iraq-bound troops getting media relations training recently in Devens, Massachusetts. 1/25
Continue reading "Media relations part of Marines' training for Iraq" »
December 24, 2005
Merry farewell
• Headed to Iraq: Joliet Christmas party brings together Marines and their families
December 23, 2005
Marine Reserve unit mobilized for Iraq duty
A Marine Corps Reserve unit here has been mobilized for service in Iraq.
Continue reading "Marine Reserve unit mobilized for Iraq duty" »
December 14, 2005
Reservist adjusts after coming home
Sorrow and success
December 13, 2005
Marine dad plans deep talk with son
Editor's note: This is an occasional series featuring stories of soldiers far from home and their loved ones here.
What it's like to be a Marine Reserve with a 5 year old son, and explain to him why Daddy must leave.
December 6, 2005
150 Local Marines Head To Iraq
Dec. 5 - Some local Marines have been called up to fight the war. There are 150 Marine reserves headed for Iraq where they will take on one of the war's most dangerous duties. (1/14)
December 5, 2005
Briefing readies Marines, families for mobilization
PLAINVILLE -- Despite the snowy conditions, U.S. Marines and their families gathered at the Plainville Marine and Navy Resource Center on Sunday morning for "Family Day," a special event held before the infantry reserve unit mobilizes for training and deployment. (1/25 Charlie)
Continue reading "Briefing readies Marines, families for mobilization" »
December 4, 2005
Marines, families gather before first leg of journey
Londonderry — Standing in front of the men of Bravo Company, First Battalion, 25th Marines, and hundreds of their family members, Lt. Col. Chris Landrau spoke very plainly about what the next year would be like. “This is going to the most challenging year for your loved ones,” he told the crowd. (1/25)
Continue reading "Marines, families gather before first leg of journey" »
Many good men: Listening to NH's Marines
The Londonderry-based Bravo Company, a Marine reserve unit, has just been activated for duty in Iraq. These men are nothing if not ready — and willing — to go.
Continue reading "Many good men: Listening to NH's Marines" »
L.I. Marines Ready To Do Their Duty
(CBS) GARDEN CITY Three hundred Marines from our area will be deployed to Iraq early next year. (2/25)
December 3, 2005
Bank and customers answer call to help Marines phone home
Londonderry — When the men of Bravo Company, First Battalion, 25th Marines, find themselves thousands of miles from family, in a strange land that looks and feels nothing like New Hampshire, just the briefest chance to hear a voice from home might make all the difference.
Continue reading "Bank and customers answer call to help Marines phone home" »
December 2, 2005
Called to duty in Iraq
• Local Marine reservists: Bravo Battery to report at McDonough St. base
LI Reservists Heading To Iraq... Again
(CBS) GARDEN CITY U.S Marine Reservists on Long Island are preparing to leave their homes this weekend, and ultimately end up in Iraq. (3/25)
December 1, 2005
Group Of US Marines In Broken Arrow Called Up To Duty
More northeastern Oklahoma US Marines get called to duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Continue reading "Group Of US Marines In Broken Arrow Called Up To Duty" »
Alameda Marine reservists headed for Iraq
About 150 Marine Corps reservists based in Alameda have been called to active duty as of Dec. 1.
Continue reading "Alameda Marine reservists headed for Iraq" »
Families thrilled to see soldiers return from Iraq
Frank Hardy has not had a single good night's sleep in four months. (4th ANGLICO)
Continue reading "Families thrilled to see soldiers return from Iraq" »
Broken Arrow Marines Prepare To Leave
Some Broken Arrow US Marines are reporting for duty. They'll spend up to a year away from the home front. (Anti Tank Training Co)
Area Marines Head Back To Iraq
Despite the growing debate over withdrawing our troops from Iraq, some local marines are volunteering to return. (2/25 Fox Co)
Another Tour In Iraq For Volunteer LI Reservists
(CBS) GARDEN CITY They've already had to say goodbye once when local marine reservists based in Garden City were deployed the first time to Iraq. Now, just before the holidays, they've been called to active duty once again. (2/25 h&s;)
Continue reading "Another Tour In Iraq For Volunteer LI Reservists" »
Local Marines Called Back to Iraq
Nearly 80 Marines from Echo Company out of Harrisburg are being called back to duty in
Iraq.
November 29, 2005
N.H.-based unit headed to Iraq
LONDONDERRY, N.H. A Marine reserve company based in Londonderry (New Hampshire) has been ordered to Iraq. (1/25)
November 28, 2005
Four best friends to serve in Iraq together
When Marine reservist Daniel Bowman volunteered to serve in Iraq with another platoon, his three best friends in Gainesville were worried.
Continue reading "Four best friends to serve in Iraq together" »
Reserve Marine unit stocked with El Pasoans excels in Iraq
On short notice, a reserve Marine artillery battery from El Paso learned a new specialty and then earlier this year headed to Iraq where its members worked in military prisons, guarded convoys and provided security for a major Marine operations base. (2/14)
Continue reading "Reserve Marine unit stocked with El Pasoans excels in Iraq" »
November 27, 2005
The Iraq Story: How Troops See It
BROOK PARK, OHIO (Nov. 27) – Cpl. Stan Mayer has seen the worst of war. In the leaves of his photo album, there are casual memorials to the cost of the Iraq conflict - candid portraits of friends who never came home and graphic pictures of how insurgent bombs have shredded steel and bone.
Strange World
Twin brothers who have done two tours of duty in Iraq find that the return to civilian life is a hard adjustment
November 9, 2005
Baltimore Marines Return Home From Iraq
(WJZ) Parkville, Md. Nearly 200 Marines who left Parkville earlier this year for an extended tour in Iraq have now returned home. (4th CEB- great video feed at ext link)
Continue reading "Baltimore Marines Return Home From Iraq" »
November 7, 2005
Keesler delivers supplies, Marines launch 'Toys'
Local military continued their relief and humanitarian work last week with supply deliveries and debris removal, hosted an author and kicked off a Christmas toy drive. (4th AAB)
Continue reading "Keesler delivers supplies, Marines launch 'Toys'" »
November 5, 2005
Marines Return Home As Dads
Families Reunited 1 Month Ago (3/25)
November 4, 2005
OSU to honor Lima Company after first quarter of Illinois game
BUCKEYE BUZZ: Ohio State will honor the Columbus-based Lima Company, the hard-hit unit that lost 16 Marine reservists in Iraq, between the first and second quarters of Saturday's game against Illinois.
Continue reading "OSU to honor Lima Company after first quarter of Illinois game" »
November 3, 2005
Memorial gym helps service members relieve combat stress
CAMP RIPPER, Iraq (Nov. 3, 2005) -- After a long day’s work here, Marines need a way to relieve stress and relax from the rigors of being in a combat zone. Nothing serves better than a good workout. (RCT-2 / 3/25 K & L Co)
Continue reading "Memorial gym helps service members relieve combat stress" »
October 28, 2005
Looming deployment casts fear over Marines' families
Next spring, Denise Barone's only son will leave Mason - most likely for Iraq - trading a world of certainty and safety for one of confusion and danger. (1/24)
Continue reading "Looming deployment casts fear over Marines' families" »
October 25, 2005
Tampa man gets 'award for sacrifice'
Adam Boggs received a Purple Heart Tuesday, along with Marines from Tampa, Largo, Orlando and Lakeland. (4th AAB)
Student's deployment brings home Iraq war to Bowdoin College campus
BRUNSWICK — On Dec. 1, Alex Cornell du Houx, a 21-year-old Bowdoin College senior from Solon will head to Iraq for approximately 10 months as part of the Alpha 1st Company Battalion of the Marines.
Continue reading "Student's deployment brings home Iraq war to Bowdoin College campus" »
October 24, 2005
4th Force Reconnaissance Company practices parachute operations over Kaneohe Bay
Experienced jumpers can land on the target even at night in an unlit drop zone.
These Marines train in many other ways as well. (4th RECON / picture at ext. link)
October 21, 2005
Bravo, for a job well done
They escorted more than 300 convoys, traveled more than 230,000 miles and escaped a dozen enemy bomb blasts with only a minor injury to one Marine.
October 20, 2005
Reserve Marine PMIs first to train on new qualification tables of fire
MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va.(Oct. 20, 2005) -- The 83 reserve and 13 active duty Marines completing the two-week Reserve Primary Marksmanship Instructor Course at Quantico’s Weapons Training Battalion will become the first PMIs, active or Reserve, trained to instruct the new rifle qualification course.
Continue reading "Reserve Marine PMIs first to train on new qualification tables of fire" »
Marines will have their ball after all
GULFPORT - A Marine with a sword will cut cake, one way or another. (4th AAB)
October 18, 2005
Banquet Honors Top Guard, Reserve Employers
WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2005 – America's employers are inextricably linked to the nation's defense, and their support is essential to fighting and winning the global war on terrorism, the secretary of the Army said here Oct. 15 at a banquet honoring the year's most supportive employers of National Guard and Reserve servicemembers.
Continue reading "Banquet Honors Top Guard, Reserve Employers" »
October 17, 2005
Marines from Gulfport back from Iraq
GULFPORT - Sgt. Dennis Woulard said he returned from Iraq to find his home once had six feet of water in it and his wife and sons fled Hurricane Katrina and had taken residence in Chicago, all while his fellow Marines faced gunfire and mines and waited to come home. (4th AABN)
October 12, 2005
Marine gets a surprise wedding
-- The groom: Marine Lance Cpl. Nathan Adey, 25, of Akron. The bride: Alicia Dubravetz, 22, also of Akron. Together, they made an audience of hundreds laugh and cry with joy.
Tributes keep coming with visit by ‘Three Wishes’ stars
The 3/25th, a battalion of roughly 900 Marines and sailors based in part at the Akron/Canton Regional Airport welcomed home from Iraq last week, was on the receiving end of a special gift from Grammy Award winner Amy Grant on Tuesday night.
Continue reading "Tributes keep coming with visit by ‘Three Wishes’ stars" »
October 9, 2005
Local police chief hurt serving in Iraq
NORWICH, N.Y. (AP) _ A police chief from New York's Southern Tier now serving with the Marines in Iraq has been wounded twice within the past month in combat-related incidents, a published report said Sunday. (2/25)
Continue reading "Local police chief hurt serving in Iraq" »
October 7, 2005
Foreign Military Training Unit activates
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Oct. 7, 2005) -- The Marine Corps will activate a new unit here Tuesday, in front of Building H-1. The Foreign Military Training Unit, part of the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Anti-Terrorism) will be the first of its kind in the Marine Corps.
Continue reading "Foreign Military Training Unit activates" »
Marines finally return from Iraq
Trip back home had 12 false starts (4th ANGLICO)
Broken Arrow Marine Unit Returns Home
A plane load of US Marines are back home in Oklahoma. 17 members of the 325th out of Broken Arrow returned to Oklahoma from Iraq Thursday afternoon. The homecoming was bittersweet; one of their buddies didn't make it back.
October 6, 2005
Marine battalion arrives home to cheers
BROOK PARK, Ohio -- Family members with relatives in a Marine Corps battalion that lost 48 members in Iraq cheered loudly Thursday as the unit finished its trip home.
Continue reading "Marine battalion arrives home to cheers" »
October 4, 2005
Father and son Marines return from Iraq to Silver Lake
SILVER LAKE, Kan. - A father and son assigned to the same Marine unit for seven months of duty in Iraq have been welcomed home by hundreds of people in this northeast Kansas community.
Continue reading "Father and son Marines return from Iraq to Silver Lake" »
Marines take to trenches for children in need
The Marines, Navy and city officials are hoping 2005 will be another record-breaking year in the area's Toys for Tots campaign.
Continue reading "Marines take to trenches for children in need" »
October 3, 2005
Marines Reflect On Time In Iraq
Marines of the Columbus-based Lima Company received a special visit from Vice President Dick Cheney Monday morning.
Cheney to award Purple Hearts to five Marines
(CAMP LEJEUNE) - Vice President Dick Cheney will participate in a Purple Heart ceremony for five Marines Monday morning during his visit to Camp Lejeune.
Continue reading "Cheney to award Purple Hearts to five Marines" »
Southern Calif., reserve Marine one of many volunteers in Iraq
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Oct. 2, 2005) -- He is one of thousands of Marines arriving to Iraq within the past month. The affable and personable Marine is also one of many volunteers who have requested to come here.
Continue reading "Southern Calif., reserve Marine one of many volunteers in Iraq" »
Cheney to visit Camp Lejeune today
CAMP LEJEUNE - As one set of VIPs left Camp Lejeune Sunday, Marines prepared for the arrival of another this morning.
Vice President Dick Cheney will make a brief visit at Camp Lejeune today to welcome troops that recently returned from Iraq. Marines worked all weekend - through the Marine Corps Celebrity Invitational - to prepare for his short stay.
Barn Mural Honors Tri-state Marine Who Died In Iraq
SABINA, Ohio (AP) -- A man moved by the death of a young Marine in Iraq has painted a 30-foot-wide mural of the Marine on the side of a barn. (3/25)
Continue reading "Barn Mural Honors Tri-state Marine Who Died In Iraq" »
October 1, 2005
Last Marine in Unit Mourns 11 Lost Friends
HADITHA DAM, Iraq - Cpl. David Kreuter had a new baby boy he'd seen only in photos. Lance Cpl. Michael Cifuentes was counting the days to his wedding. Lance Cpl. Nicholas Bloem had just celebrated his 20th birthday.
Continue reading " Last Marine in Unit Mourns 11 Lost Friends" »
Marines to return
The Marines from Richards-Gebaur who deployed to help with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina were scheduled to return to Kansas City by this weekend.
September 30, 2005
Roanoke Marines return
Near a makeshift memorial for their only dead brethren, the Marine reservists of B Company returned home Thursday to a joyful reunion with their families, including some babies born while their fathers were in Iraq. (4th CEB)
Marine battalion heads to North Carolina; will meet with Cheney
For a few months, some of them were part of Lucky Lima, the nickname given to an Ohio-based Marine unit that had left for Iraq in January and, for a time, had not suffered any casualties or injuries.
Continue reading "Marine battalion heads to North Carolina; will meet with Cheney" »
September 27, 2005
Marine's wish honored as mascot comes home
Kathy Wright can't replace her Marine son who was killed in Iraq, but later this week she will honor his request and adopt the company mascot, a dog named Beans. (enterer's note: 3/25)
Continue reading "Marine's wish honored as mascot comes home" »
Following Dad, or Mom, into service appeals to many
Ever since he was a little boy, Michael Marzano would practice marching in his father's old uniform.
Continue reading "Following Dad, or Mom, into service appeals to many" »
Dog serving as Brook Park Marines mascot coming home
BROOK PARK, Ohio - The mascot of this town's beloved battalion that lost 14 Marines in the Iraq war is on his way to his new home.
Continue reading "Dog serving as Brook Park Marines mascot coming home" »
September 26, 2005
4th AT Battalion responds to Rita
NEW IBERIA, LA.-- (Sept. 26, 3005) -- The Marines of the 4th Anti-Terrorism Battalion voluntarily mobilized from their reserve headquarters in Bessemer, Al., to lend a helping hand to the city of New Orleans after Katrina crashed through the metropolis. Starting in Biloxi, Miss., the storm chasers made a sweep south to the Gulf of Mexico and following Hurricane Rita, started moving east to their final destination in New Iberia, La. From there, they decided to stick around to see what kind of punch Hurricane Rita would pack.
September 25, 2005
Oregon/SW Washington Marines Return
Salem, Ore. -- Over 100 Marine reservists from Oregon and Southwest Washington returned home from Iraq this weekend.
Northern Virginia college student serving as Marine in Iraq
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Sept. 25, 2005) -- College students across America are in class, studying, working on projects and preparing for mid-term exams in a couple of weeks.
Continue reading "Northern Virginia college student serving as Marine in Iraq" »
Troops Coming Home
This week, Marshall County will prepare to welcome home it's Marines. (3/25)
Ft. Collins, Colo., native “cleared hot” in Iraq
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 25, 2005) -- As insurgents continue to launch attacks on multinational forces, Marines continue to beat them back using every means possible to include close air support. (4th RECON attached to 3/25)
Continue reading "Ft. Collins, Colo., native “cleared hot” in Iraq" »
Stranded squad fights way to extraction point
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 25, 2005) -- While on a routine patrol pushing out from their field operation bases here, a squad of Marines with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment faced a dire situation.
Continue reading "Stranded squad fights way to extraction point" »
Company I responds to SVBIED attack
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 25, 2005) -- “Incoming, SVBIED!” is the last thing Marines remember hearing before a huge explosion rocked the building. (3/25 I co.)
Company L patrol Hit to disrupt insurgency
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 25, 2005) -- Corporal Andrew C. Britten and other Marines with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment participating in Operation Sword conducted presence patrols near the newly constructed forward operating base in Hit.
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September 24, 2005
Marine reflects on injuries, tour in Iraq
AKRON, Ohio -- Richard "Ricky" Paul Turner sat on a couch at his mother's home and flipped through snapshots he took in Iraq.
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McConnelsville, Ohio native fire-rescue member
HADITHAH DAM, Iraq (Sept. 24, 2005) -- In the midst of emergencies, decisions made by emergency personnel often mean life or death. One Marine with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, who is also an EMT and volunteer fireman, understands the choices that civilian rescue teams make and is applying it to his first deployment to Iraq.
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Franklin Furnance, Ohio native finds insurgent documentation during Operation Spear
KARBILAH, Iraq
(Sept. 24, 2005) -- Lance Cpl. James M. Howard, an infantryman with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment and soldiers from the Iraqi Security Force discovered evidence of foreign fighters in the town of Karbilah while participating in Operation Rohme (Spear).
Marines Return Home from Iraq
Lots of smiling faces and spirited embraces were at the Marine Corps Armory in Jackson Saturday morning.
September 23, 2005
Fund-raiser will benefit 3/25 Marines
EAST LONGMEADOW Last December, the Third Battalion, 25th Marines gathered at the annual Marines Ball in Buffalo, New York before being deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Marines come home from Iraq
Two Roseburg Marines who have spent the past eight months in Iraq as members of an engineer support battalion will return home to Oregon tonight.
Rita could add Fort Worth Marines’ efforts without subtracting from Katrina relief
NAVAL AIR STATION-JOINT RESERVE BASE FORT WORTH, Texas (Sept. 23, 2005) -- While Hurricane Rita continues to elude experts on her exact landfall position in the Texas Gulf Coast region the Leathernecks of Fort Worth, Texas based Marine Aircraft Group 41 continue a high-paced contingency of aviation assets to support the Katrina-battered regions of Louisiana and Mississippi.
Marines return from Fallujah -
Two buses of Marines rolled into the parking lot and families clutching ``Welcome Home'' signs crowded forward on the sidewalk.
NYPDs finest serve Corps in Iraq
CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq(Sept. 23, 2005) -- “All I could see was a big cloud of dust and smoke and people running all over the place to get away from it,” said Staff Sgt. Jose Mercado, recalling his memory of the North Tower of the World Trade Center as it collapsed on Sept. 11, 2001. “I didn’t know what was happening. It was total chaos.” (2/25 Marines)
Marines return home after 9 months in Iraq
'It feels great to see grass,' says corporal who served in Fallujah
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September 22, 2005
I Company find IED materials during patrol
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2005) -- The day after finding a cache underneath a hotel, Marines with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment patrolling in the area were given a mission to search a shop less than a block from the hotel.
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Identical twins cross paths in Iraq
CAMP HIT, Iraq (Sept. 22, 2005) -- Being born a twin is an uncommon occurrence, but an even more unusual occasion is when two identical twins get a chance to hold a reunion on the sandy terrain of Iraq.
September 21, 2005
U.S. Marines Adopt the Children of Djibouti
When a handful of Marines show up at a school in this African city equipped with tools, paintbrushes and building materials, their mission is clear: help the children.
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U.S. Marines Adopt the Children of Djibouti
One job is to clean, paint and beautify orphanage for girls
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Squad leader uses language skills on patrols
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2005) -- When Sgt. Keith M. Wagner, a squad leader with 3rd Platoon, K Company, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, learned he would be deploying to Iraq last year, he enrolled in the Survival Level Arabic Course to communicate with the people.
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Marines befriend Iraqi children, invest in future stability of region
HADITHAH, Iraq (Sept. 21, 2005) -- While patrolling through the city of Hit, Marines with 1st Platoon, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment decided to rest in a nearby house to escape the sweltering heat.
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September 20, 2005
Mortar man from Pittsburgh helps defend base in Iraq
When insurgents attempt to attack the camp, the base’s mortar men with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment send the insurgents fleeing by responding with mortars of their own.
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Shiite Muslim Marine fights the war on terrorism with Company L, 3/25
HIT, Al Anbar, Iraq (Sept. 20, 2005) -- As a young boy growing up in Pakistan, Lance Cpl. Sajjad H. Rizvi, witnessed terrorists killing people of his faith and terrorizing those who wouldn’t comply with their way of life. More than a decade later, with memories of his past weighing heavy on his mind, Rizvi has dedicated himself to bringing terrorists to justice as a United States Marine.
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September 18, 2005
Marine mud run attracts 1,500
Hundreds from Roanoke and the New River Valley came to the annual event to raise funds for Toys for Tots and Camp Roanoke
September 17, 2005
Every clime and place
Marines swap Africa's heat for stormy U.S. skies - and don't mind
September 16, 2005
Marine Reservists return home from 8 month deployment in Africa
Marines Home from Djibouti.
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September 15, 2005
Team Hosts 500 Family Members of the U.S. Marine Corps Fox Company Stationed in Iraq
The Milwaukee Bucks and five partner groups hosted 500 family members of the United States Marine Corps Fox Company stationed in Iraq when the team faced the Chicago Bulls at 6:00 p.m. The Fox Company is the Milwaukee-based company of the 2nd Battalion 24th Marines Reserve Unit.
September 14, 2005
4th Marine Division honors its fallen Marines
Approximately 400 veterans and their families gathered at the South Mesa staff noncommissioned officer’s club to recognize the achievements of, and remember their lost comrades from, the 4th Marine Division.
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September 4, 2005
4th CEB improves and rebuilds defenses at firm base after SVBIED attack
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 4, 2005) -- Following an attack on Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment’s forward operation base, engineers with 4th Combat Engineer Battalion rushed to repair the base’s defenses.
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Company L moves civilians out of harm’s way before destroying car bomb facility
KARABILAH, Iraq (Sept. 4, 2005) -- Iraqi Security Forces along with Marines and Sailors from Company L, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, conducted counter-insurgency operations in an attempt to isolate and neutralize anti-Iraqi forces and to destroy insurgency strong points here.
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3/25’s Devil Docs save lives in heat of insurgent attack
HIT, Iraq (Sept. 4, 2005) -- Petty Officer 3rd Class Aragorn T. Wold’s day was just beginning when the corpsman with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, heard screaming and small arms fire.
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August 21, 2005
Injured Marine hopes to return to Iraqi battlefield
Huguenot resident Capt. Raymond Lopes was lucky to get out with his life, but wants to finish the job
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January 5, 2005
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