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OBSERVATION

POSTServing the MCAGCCCommunity at

Twentynine Palms, Calif.

VOL. 52 NO. 18May 5, 2006

BULK RATEU.S. Postage

PAID29 Palms, CAPermit No. 8

A5 – Language training simulation

A6 – 3/11 Mike Battery

B1 – Softball

THIS ISSUE

COMING NEXT ISSUE

SMP VOLUNTEERS, B4SMP VOLUNTEERS, B4

THIS DAY INMARINE CORPS

HISTORY

May 5, 1919HQMC moved into

the new Navy building on

Constitution Avenuein Washington, DC.

• Phelps dedication

• 3/4 Change of Command

• MCAGCC Male Athlete of the Year

HQMC PROMOTIONSBRANCH VISIT

Headquarters Marine Corps’Promotion Branch will behere on May 18. The firstbrief of two will be for offi-cers from 0900-0945, andthe second one will be forenlisted Marines from 1000-1100. Both briefs will be atthe Base theater.

MARINE CORPSEXCHANGE

RENOVATIONWork has begun on theMarine Corps ExchangeMain Store renovation. Theremodeling will be done inphases by department.However, there will be a lotof rerouting due to pullingup old tile and carpet andlaying new tile and carpet.So please pardon our dust.We apologize for any incon-venience, encourage you tostill please patronize thestore, and look forward to anew and improved MainStore. Some departmentswill be relocated, some willbe expanded so we can offermore products, and, with theexception of high businessareas requiring specializedproduct knowledge, therewill be a centralized check-out. The remodeling time-line will go from nowthrough May, notwithstand-ing any glitches. As always,thanks for your support!

TAX CENTER STILLOPEN FOR

TAXPAYERS ON ANEXTENSION

The official tax season isover. If you served in a com-bat zone, you have a mini-mum of 180 days after leav-ing the combat zone to fileyour tax return. This exten-sion allows you to file yourreturn, pay taxes and takeother actions with the IRSwith no penalties or interest.You may elect to have yournontaxable combat payincluded in earned income ifthis increases your earnedincome credit. The tax officeis located at the Village Cen-ter, Bldg. 1551 is still opento assist you. Office hoursare 7:30-11:00 a.m. and 1-3p.m. (Closed 11-1) Monday-Friday. It is recommendedthat appointments be sched-uled by calling 830-4829.No children are allowed atthe tax center. Please makearrangements for day care.If you prefer a direct depositof your refund, bring inproof of your bank accountsuch as a MyPay print out orblank check showing yourbank routing and accountnumbers. A joint tax returnrefund must be depositedinto a joint banking account.

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Friends and family gathered for a memorial servicein honor of Cpl. Solomon David Wingert of DeltaCompany, 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, at theCombat Center’s Protestant Chapel April27.Wingert sacrificed his life protecting a friendfrom an oncoming speeding vehicle on a street inLos Angeles the evening of March 31.

Wingert was with his fiancée and a friend, whena vehicle came speeding towards his friend. Hepushed his friend out of harm’s way and was struckby the vehicle, according to police reports.

Afuneral service was held at his hometown, wheremany of his fellow Marines were unable to attend.

“We wanted to have a memorial service here toprovide closure for the Marines who weren’t able tomake it to his funeral,” said Gunnery Sgt. MarcosEnriquez, who was in a leadership position overWingert for more than two years.

Some Marines who worked closely with Wingertspoke to family and friends at the memorial service,including two of his closet friends, Sgt. Ben Trujil-lo and Cpl. Derrick Rolfo.

Trujillo recalled the first time he met Wingertthe first day at basic training, how he met up withhim at military occupational specialty school, andthen, became roommates after they both becamepart of Delta Co.

He was good people,” said Trujillo during hisspeech. “He was a true hero to everybody, and espe-cially me. I looked up to him, even though he wasyounger than me.”

Rolfo became instant friends with Wingert whenthey met shortly after Rolfo joined the unit, he said.

He’s one of the greatest guys I’ve ever met,”Rolfo said. “He would give anyone the shirt off ofhis back. He was just the life of the party.”

Rolfo was only one of a few people who knew

about the charities he donated to every pay day.“He donated to these charities because he

truly cared,” said Rolfo. “That’s the type of per-son he was.”

Wingert’s time in the Marine Corps was comingclose to an end before his untimely death. He hadbeen speaking with his leaders about his plans afterleaving the Corps.

“He looked at me and said he had done his timeand he wanted to go to college,” said Maj. MichaelSmith, Delta Co. commander. “He was a fine youngman. His family and improving his education werethe most important things to him.”

1st Lt. Sean Thompson witnessed Wingert growfrom a quiet, reserved junior Marine, to a leader hecould trust, he said.

He was one hell of a man, one hell of a Marine,”said Thompson. “We believe he is on guard at thegates of heaven. He will always be with us.”

Wingert was born Nov. 4, 1984, in Victorville,

Calif., and grew up in Moraga, Calif., where heattended Jubilee Christian Academy and graduatedin 2002. In August 2002, Wingert enlisted into theMarine Corps and began training at Marine CorpsRecruit Depot San Diego.

After completing basic training, Wingert beganhis training for his primary military occupationalspecialty, assault amphibian vehicle crewman, atCamp Pendleton, Calif. After finishing MOSschool, he reported to 3rd AABN, D Co., in March2003.

While serving with Delta Co., Wingert partici-pated in two unit deployments to Okinawa, Japan.

Wingert’s personal awards include a MarineCorps Good Conduct Medal and a Navy and MarineCorps Achievement Medal, posthumously, for hisheroic actions resulting in his death.

Wingert is survived by his mother, Mary Krueger,step-father Jim Krueger, and three siblings, RickWilkins, Jerome Wingert and Christy Penix.

CPL. EVAN M. EAGANCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

President George Bush came to the Combat Cen-ter April 23, to visit Marines, Sailors and their fam-ilies during a three-day tour of the Southern Cali-fornia area.

Marking the first time a president has visited theCombat Center, Bush attended church services atthe Protestant Chapel and ate lunch with the servicemembers and their families at the 7th Marines messhall, where he addressed those who assembled.

During his speech, Bush expressed his apprecia-tion for the Marines, Sailors and their families forthe sacrifices they have made whether overseas orstateside.

“You represent the very best of America,” hesaid. “You represent men and women who volun-teer to serve during dangerous and historic times.And because of your service, we're defeating anenemy overseas so we do not have to face them hereat home. Because of your service, we've liberatedpeople from the clutches of a tyrant. And because ofyour service, we're laying the foundation of peace

for a generation of Americans to come. These arehistoric times, and your service makes me incredi-bly proud.

“And I also want to say something to your fami-lies,” Bush continued. “It's hard when your lovedone is overseas. I respect your sacrifice, and want tothank you very much for your service to our coun-try, as well.”

Many Marines who ate lunch with the presidentwere excited to meet with their commander-in-chief.

Combat Center Marines reactto visit with President Bush

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZA picture of Cpl. Solomon David Wingert stands next to a gift from his unit, 3rd Assault Amphibian Bat-talion, Delta Company, at a memorial service held for the Marine who passed away March 31.

Delta Co. remembers fallen heroSee VISIT, A3

4 pm Event Begins: Opening remarksfrom MCFood service/beer sales begin

4 – 4:30 pm Inflatable games for all ages4 – 5:30 pm DJ plays5:30 – 6:30 pm MCAGCC Band takes stage

6:20 – 7:30 pm DJ plays 7:30 pm Food service/Inflatables closed7:50 pm Introduction of Lynyrd Skynyrd8 – 10 pm Lynyrd Skynyrd performance9:30 pm Beer sales end10 pm Event ends

“We Salute You” celebration coming May 21

LANCE CPL. PATRICK GREENEPresident George W. Bush and Brig. Gen. Douglas M. Stone chat outside the 7th Marines mess hall.

Presented by the Provost Marshal’s Office Crime Prevention Section

The following services are available to on-base personnel and residents through CrimePrevention: literature, briefs, education, crime assessments, safety tips, the StrangerDanger program, McGruff the Crime Dog, the Officer Friendly program, the PropertyMarking program, and the Child Identification and Fingerprinting program. For moreinformation call Crime Prevention, 830-6094/5457.

Crime Prevention tip of the week: Identifying illegal drug use may help prevent further abuse. Possible signs include:Change in moods — more irritable, secretive, withdrawn, overly sensitive, inap-propriately angry, euphoric.

Signs of irresponsibility — including arriving home late, being tardy for school orclass and dishonest behavior.

Changing friends or changing lifestyles — new interests, unexplained cash, newclothes and items not purchased by parent.

Physical deterioration — difficulty in concentration, loss of coordination, loss ofweight, unhealthy appearance, or negligence in hygiene.

The OBSERVATION POST is published by Hi-Desert Publishing, a private firm inno way connected with the Department of Defense or the United States MarineCorps, under exclusive written contract with the Marine Corps Air GroundCombat Center. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized pub-lication for members of the military services. Contents of the OBSERVATION POSTare not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the United States Gov-ernment, the DoD, or the United States Marine Corps. The appearance ofadvertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does notconstitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Hi-Desert Publishingof the services advertised.Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase,use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin,age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmeritfactor of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is prepared by thePublic Affairs Office, MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, Calif. 92278. All photos,unless otherwise indicated are Official USMC Photos. Questions can be direct-ed to the Public Affairs Office, located in Bldg. 1417, during normal workinghours at (760) 830-6213 or FAX (760) 830-5474. The OBSERVATION POST ismade with 60-percent recycled paper.

OBSERVATION POST

Commanding General Brig. Gen. Douglas M. StoneDirector Capt. Chad D. WaltonDeputy Director 1st Lt. Christy L. KerchevalPublic Affairs Chief Gunnery Sgt. Chris W. CoxMedia Relations Chief Sgt. Jennie E. HaskampLayout and Design Michael J. ArmstrongExternal Release NCO Sgt. Robert L. Fisher IIIPress Chief Cpl. Evan M. EaganCombat Correspondent Cpl. Heidi E. LoredoCombat Correspondent Cpl. Brian A. TuthillCombat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Michael S. CifuentesCombat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Regina N. Ortiz

A2 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

Centerspeak“How do you cope with rising gas prices?”

Opinions expressed in Centerspeak are not necessarily those of the OBSERVATION POST, the Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

GINGER ZIELEV

LINCOLN MILITARY HOUSING

“Idon’t go anywhereanymore. It takes

$60 to fill up my gastank.”

BRIANNA ST. GEORGE

FAMILY MEMBER

MITCH TEMPLETON

RETIRED MARINE

“Idon’t have achoice out here but

to pay more money.”

CPL. SIMON TORRES

3/4

“My car is reallygas efficient so

it really doesn’t botherme. I can fill up mytank with $20.”

What’s on your mind?Centerspeak welcomes questionsor submissions from service members,Department of Defense civiliansand family members.

Address submissions to:Commanding GeneralPublic Affairs Office(Attn. Press Chief)MCAGCCBox 788200Twentynine Palms, CA 92278-8200

Or E-mail to:evan.eagan@usmc.mil

“Well I have to copewith it. There is no

choice. I try to walk any-where I can.”

GOOD MOVIES

Sempertoons By Gunnery Sgt. Charles Wolf

[Solutions on A5]

C.O.P. Corner

MARKEL BUOT FERNANDOSon of Seaman and Mrs. Mario C. Fernando.Born March 5, 2006, weighing 5 lbs. 15oz. and measuring 18.7 inches.

SAMUEL DIMITRIOS MATEASon of Sgt. and Mrs. Steven Matea. Born March 5, 2006, weighing 9 lbs. 2 oz.and measuring 20.7 inches.

MARY MACKENZIE WOODSDaughter of Lance Cpl. and Mrs. Gary O.Woods IV. Born March 8, 2006, weighing 6 lbs. 5 oz.and measuring 19.1 inches.

KAYDENCE NICOLE DEPEWDaughter of Cpl. and Mrs. Joseph DePew. Born March 9, 2006, weighing 8 lbs. 10oz. and measuring 22 inches.

IAN DANIEL JARVISSon of Cpl. and Mrs. Donald Jarvis. Born March 10, 2006, weighing 8 lbs. 4oz. and measuring 20 inches.

LOGAN MATTHEW JAMES MCKINLEYSon of Lance Cpl. and Mrs. BrandonMcKinley. Born March 10, 2006, weighing 8 lbs. 1oz. and measuring 20.2 inches.

LOGHAN CONWAYSon of Cpl. and Mrs. Chad Conway. Born March 12, 2006, weighing 6 lbs. 11oz. and measuring 19.6 inches.

ANGELINA MONIQUE ORTEGADaughter of Seaman and Mrs. FernandoOrtega.Born March 15, 2006, weighing 8 lbs. 1oz. and measuring 20 inches.

KYLEIGH REBECCA POWERSDaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Powers. Born March 16, 2006, weighing 7 lbs. 14oz. and measuring 19.7 inches.

NATALIE RENAE ROBINSONDaughter of Sgt. and Mrs. Justin Robinson. Born March 17, 2006, weighing 6 lbs. 15oz. and measuring 20.6 inches.

MARKEL BUOT FERNANDOSon of Seaman and Mrs. Mario C.

Birth announcements

CommunityOriented PolicingThe proactive voice of crime prevention

Presented by the Provost Marshal’s Office Crime Prevention Section

OBSERVATION POST MAY 5, 2006 A3

For Sgt. Daniel D. Reuss, an assault gunnerwith Weapons Platoon, Lima Company, 3rdBattalion, 4th Marine Regiment, meetingPresident Bush was a rewarding experience.

“I sat about 20 feet away from the presidentwhen I ate brunch with him,” said the Red-ding, Calif., native, and two time OperationIraqi Freedom veteran. “He said he was veryhappy to see us. He told us the Marine Corpswas doing an excellent job. Itwas an awesome experience,which was worth a lot. Noteveryone gets to meet thepresident.”

Lance Cpl. Christopher L.Parks, an infantryman with3rd Platoon, Echo Company,2nd Battalion, 7th MarineRegiment, wasn’t seated asclose to the president, but stillhad the opportunity to meethim.

“When he first came in tothe chow hall, he becamesocial with all of us who werestanding in line,” said theCorpus Christi, Texas, native,and Operation Iraqi Freedomveteran. “After eating, hewalked around the whole chow hall to shakehands with everyone. When he got to ourtable, he told us how much of a good job we’redoing. He also asked about our families andhow things were going at home. It was a pretty

motivating experience. He gave me inspira-tion to keep doing my job and doing it well.He really showed us he cared and he wantedus to know that. It was an honor to see himbecause it’s something that I might not havethe privilege to do again.”

Sgt. Matthew L. Barber, a machinegunsquad leader with Weapons Platoon, LimaCompany, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regi-ment, was motivated by the president’s visit.Eating with the president is an experience he

won’t soon forget.“I was very motivated to

even get to see the president,”said the Olathe, Kan., native.“When he first got to thechow hall, he busted out witha ‘Semper Fi.’ That was verymotivating.

“We all were very happyto have the president come toour base,” continued Barber.“He actually took the timefrom his very busy scheduleto come see us for a day. Iknow everyone in 3/4 washonored to talk to him. It wasmy best experience here. Itwas just some motivatingstuff.”

After spending time with the Marines,Sailors and their families, President Bushmade his way to the Combat Centerparade field where he boarded MarineOne and departed.

VISIT, A1

“I sat about 20feet away from thepresident when Iate brunch withhim. He said he

was very happy tosee us. He told usthe Marine Corps

was doing anexcellent job.”

—SGT. DANIEL D. REUSS, 3/4

“It is such anhonor to be herewith the mightyUnited States

Marine Corps andtheir families. MayGod bless you all,

and may God continue to bless

our country.”—PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH

LANCE CPL. PATRICK GREENEPresident George W. Bush poses with Combat Center Marines at the 7th Marines mess hall.

LANCE CPL. PATRICK GREENEPresident George W. Bush goes through the chow hall line with Combat Center Marines atthe 7th Marines mess hall.

WHITE HOUSE PHOTO BY ERIC DRAPERPresident George W. Bush greets parishioners at the end of a church service at the CombatCenter’s Protestant Chapel.

COURTESY OF 3RD BATTALION 11TH MARINESPresident George W. Bush greets Marines at the 7th Marines mess hall during his visit April 23.

BY LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S. CIFUENTESCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

The Military Order of the Purple Heart Chap-ter 2929 based in Joshua Tree, Calif., wasrenamed the Robert E. Bush Chapter 2929Tuesday on the quarterdeck of the Robert E.Bush Naval Hospital.

Steven H. Dell, commander of the chapterand a retired gunnery sergeant, represented thechapter during its redesignation at the NavalHospital.

The late Robert E. Bush was a corpsmanwith 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment dur-ing World War II. On May 2, 1945, the riflecompany he was serving with met resistancefrom Japanese forces in Okinawa, Japan. Bushmaneuvered through artillery, mortar and

machine-gun fire to care for casualties. Whilefeeding plasma into a fallen Marine officerwith a severe chest and shoulder injury, herefused to leave his exposed position on aridge in the midst of a Japanese counterattack.Bush held the plasma bottle up with one handwhile he took the officer's carbine with his freehand, and fired at the charging Japanese claim-ing six enemy lives at the cost of his right eyeafter hand grenades exploded around him.

As an 18-year-old Seaman, Bush was theyoungest Sailor to receive the Medal of Honorduring WWII.

Bush was also a recipient of the PurpleHeart and a member of Chapter 2929. It iswith pleasure and great honor that the chapterbe named after Robert E. Bush, said Dell.

The chapter has been in existence for

roughly 11 months, supporting 63 PurpleHeart recipients, to include Bush.

“Before he passed away, I asked Mr. Bushif we could use his name to rename our chap-ter,” said Dell, a Griffith, Ind., native. “He washonored that we wanted his name as our chap-ter. I told him we were honored to have him asa part of the chapter. He gave us a writtenstatement to do so before he passed away.

After Bush passed away, Dell spoke withBush’s son about the redesignation. His sonwent along with his father’s wishes.

“It gives the chapter great prestige beingnamed after a true hero,” said Dell. “Knowingthat our chapter is named after this man feelslike it raises our title above the rest.”

The mission of the chapter, coinciding withthe mission of the Military Order of the PurpleHeart, is to foster an environment of goodwilland camaraderie among combat wounded vet-erans, promote patriotism, support necessarylegislative initiatives, and provide service toall veterans and their families.

The Robert E. Bush Chapter 2929 bearsPurple Heart recipients from Operation IraqiFreedom to World War II, said Dell. The mem-bership is free to any active duty personnelwho’ve been awarded the Purple Heart.

Dell was awarded the Purple Heart aftersustaining battle wounds during combat oper-ations during the Vietnam War. He served asan anti-tank infantryman with Weapons Com-pany, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment.

Dell, and Petty Officer 1st Class David Pope,a corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion7, started the chapter less than a year ago.

The chapter meets monthly, said Dell.Aside from a brotherhood of combat veterans,the chapter also discusses events in the localcommunity they participate in, such as theupcoming Soap Box Derby at the CombatCenter in June. The chapter will be sponsoringa soap box car, and a racing team, said Dell.

Anthony Sanchez, the 11-year-old son ofSgt. Mark N. Novello, an artillery mechanicwith Exercise Support Division and a memberof the chapter, will be the sponsored race teamof the chapter.

“Members of the chapter came to me andasked if they could sponsor me and my son inthe race,” said Novello, a Los Angeles nativewho was wounded during convoy operationsin Iraq while serving with Lima Battery, 3rdBattalion, 12th Marine Regiment. “This was agreat opportunity to have a good time with myson that I normally wouldn’t be able to do.

“This association is definitely a brother-hood of men and women who share a commonbond, but with different experiences,” contin-ued Novello. “It’s great to be a part of thischapter, and it’s an honor to have the chapternamed after Robert E. Bush. Not an averageman in the military can achieve such a highhonor to risk their own life to save others andearn a Medal of Honor as [Bush]. It’s no won-der why the chapter is named after him.”

A4 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

Local Purple Heart chapter redesignates name to Robert E. Bush

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S. CIFUENTESSteven H. Dell, a retired gunnery sergeant and a Vietnam War veteran, pauses for a moment Tuesday on the quarterdeck of the Robert E. Bush Naval Hospital in front of a portrait of thelate Robert E. Bush, who was a corpsman and a Medal of Honor recipient after performing heroic actions during World War II.

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S.CIFUENTESCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Currently at the Combat Cen-ter’s Battle Simulation Centeris a personal computer-basedstand alone trainer designedto allow an individual todevelop proficiency with theArabic language. This simu-lated program is known as theTactical Iraqi LanguageTrainer.

The program uses a mix-ture of skill building lessonsand practice “talk-em-up”missions. It is intended for allskill levels and uses voicerecognition systems to enablespeaking practice. Unlikemost simulation systems, thisgenerally requires a signifi-cant investment in time foranything beyond the mostbasic language skills.

“This program is great forMarines who are eager tolearn,” said Maj. William W.

Yates, modeling and simula-tion officer with the BattleSimulation Center. “It’s thebest tool I’ve ever seen forMarines who are deployingsoon and would like to under-stand the language the Iraqicivilians are speaking.”

The simulation teaches anarray of concepts to personnelwho use the program. Frommeeting strangers to introduc-ing your team and learningthe duties as a guest, to bodylanguage and hand gestures,the program teaches customsand courtesies that are veryimportant in Iraq.

Each skill builder, or shortlesson, is followed by a quiz.The individual’s learningability or understanding of thelanguage allows him to moveup in levels.

“If Marines come in sever-al hours a day for a year, theirlevel of proficiency wouldsignificantly increase,” said

Yates. “It’s simple enough tolearn and use, all that is need-ed is the time to come in anduse the program.”

Echo Company, 2nd Bat-talion, 7th Marine Regiment,trained in the simulation cen-ter April 20.

“From the beginning theprogram was easy,” saidLance Cpl. Andrew E. Mauk,an infantryman with EchoCompany. “We started off onhow to say hello, and helloback to Iraqi civilians. Theprogram also gave us somegood examples of what typeof conversations and situa-tions we might see out there.”

The program was a firstexperience speaking Arabicfor most of the Marines withEcho Company. Some havenot deployed yet and do notknow what to expect or con-sider when dealing with Iraqicivilians, said Yates.

“This program will defi-

nitely help us out when wedeploy,” said Mauk. “Justbeing able to say hello andmake a welcoming gesture tothem can break the ice whenapproaching them. It alsotaught a lot about the gesturesthat I wouldn’t even think ofdoing. It’s a very easy pro-gram to use, and we’re defi-nitely going back.”

The program’s potential hasn’tbeen fully recognized, said Yates.

“We understand training istight and learning Arabic issomething Marines do ontheir off time,” continuedYates. “The simulation centeris available for units 24-hours-a-day, so anyone can come inafter work during their sparetime to learn the language inan interactive method.”

Since the simulator dealswith language, there are noweapons or tactical missions,

said Yates. The purpose is toprovide simulation-basedtraining to exercise forceswho are participating inMojave Viper, a month-longpredeployment training evo-lution. Learning how to inter-act and build rapport with theIraqi civilians during adeployment is very critical toOperation Iraqi Freedom. Thelanguage simulator was creat-ed for that mission.

OBSERVATION POST MAY 5, 2006 A5

G O D F A T H E R U O J A W S

G L O R Y U R S H A W S H A N K T E L B A

G S F C R A S H M A T R I X A O T I U C E I P O P G G S K S D O D U U H C P T E R C F U L L M E T A L J A C K E T O R I A B E P P C S C T V V L R L F L A T H O E Y A L I U B S E I R P V A C B L F R S E S T A U D E H

I S C H I N D L E R S L I S T O N E O C U G O A N A M E R I C A N B E A U T Y R S T A R W A R S

E T

SOLUTIONS

Language trainerteaches Marines tobuild rapport in Iraq

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BATTLE SIMULATION CENTERA pair of American soldiers speak with two Iraqi civilians, introducing himself and buildingrapport, in a simulation from the Tactical Iraqi Language Trainer.

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S. CIFUENTESCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

They’re an artillery battery that can load a 100-pound artilleryround into an M777 Lightweight Howitzer, capable of destroy-ing any target up to 18 miles away.

Upon a call for fire, they can execute the mission on amoment’s notice, whether or not their howitzer is hitched to a7-ton truck. They’re trained proficiently in the field of artillery,as well as in their infantry skills. Their noncommissioned offi-cers are known as great leaders, contributing to their overallexpertise in the field.

In the training area is where they reign, commonly known tothem as “the field.” But what does this regime of artillerymendo when they’re not in a firing mission?

“My next tattoo is going to be a cyclone of water and fire,”says one to another. “I can’t wait to go home and see my girlon leave,” says another. “You’re expected to take initiative inthis battery, but you need to know your boundaries,” says one,counseling another.

The downtime of an artillery battery dominates their time inthe field. This is the time when the Marines and Sailors reflecton their past times, whether good or bad. They also talk abouttheir personal lives, become familiar with one another and,more so, counsel and teach each other about their militaryoccupational specialty and their role in the Corps.

Mike Battery, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, convoyedto Niland, Calif., March 24 in support of a Weapons Tactics Instruc-tions course, a training evolution, which lasted until April 21.

The battery was tasked with providing artillery support forMarine pilots who where attending the aviation schoolhouse.

During this four-week long training evolution, the batterysupported the course on several different occasions over ninedays. They also executed their own battery objectives, toinclude enhancing their infantry skills. But most of their timespent in the field was “downtime,” a time when they were wait-ing for a firing mission.

“Most of the time I try to give a class on the weapon systemto the Marines,” said Cpl. Guillermo J. Alvear, a 21-year-oldartilleryman with Mike Battery and a Charlotte, N.C., native.“I also include the M198 Towed Howitzer in the classes, sincewe will be using them on our next deployment to Okinawa[Japan]. Other than knowledge, we try to talk about ourselves.

“It’s important that everyone in each gun section famil-iarizes themselves with each other because those are thepeople they will be depending on and living with in thefield,” he explained.

For 20 of the battery’s Marines, the training evolution was afirst-time experience in the fleet, such Pfc. Valente Polanco, a19-year-old artilleryman with Mike Battery.

“I like how time goes by fast when you’re in the field,” saidPolanco, a McAllen, Texas, native. “It is very rough out heremost of the time. We’re always doing something – either work-

ing on the gun or talking with each other, and we talk aboutalmost everything. We share a lot of personal stuff withoutholding back.”

It’s important the Marines relieve some stress whenthey’re in the field, said Alvear. But aside from givingMarines a chance to connect with one another, downtime isalso a time used to counsel Marines who are new to the unit,or need the advice.

“I try to break in the new Marines by counseling them,” saidSgt. Michael E. Gilliland, a 23-year-old artilleryman with MikeBattery. “Downtime is a time to feed off other Marines and seewhat they’re all about. We can’t let Marines we work with sec-tion themselves off from the section. We try to bring them clos-er to us.

“Downtime can also be like a sit-down session at a psy-chologist’s office,” said the Chula Vista, Calif., native. “TheNCO’s are always willing to share their opinion or give advice

to any Marine who’s in need of some.”There is no predominant conversation in the field during

downtime. The conversations do not always have to do withcounseling or knowledge, but range from personal stories towhat’s going on in the world today. The Marines talk aboutanything during their free time, said Cpl. Frank S. Cauthorn, a21-year-old artilleryman with Mike Battery.

“Sometime we have conversations about the most randomthings,” said Cauthorn, a Manteca, Calif., native. “We had adeep conversation in this section about gangs. Sgt. Gillilandwas sharing what kind of tattoo he’s going to get with Sgt.Stone. I was talking about how great our deployment to Thai-land was. Some of the junior Marines ask about marriage andhaving kids. We help each other out with financial advice andabout savings plans. There’s never a normal conversation,especially when you’ve been in the field for about four weeks.”

Everyone shared one common interest in the field – whatthey were going to do on their leave period and who they havewaiting for them at home.

“Everyone knows who is married or who has girlfriendsbecause Marines tend to think about them a lot in the field,”said Alvear.

“I have a girlfriend at home who I am planning to see dur-ing this [liberty period],” said Polanco. “I think about her justabout every day, when I’m not working. We like to exchangestories about our relationships as well.”

Downtime is never wasted in an artillery battery. Most of theMarines and Sailors share the same interest, which lead to sim-ilar conversations. Some Marines catch up on learning theweapon system. In all, there is never a dull moment duringdowntime in the field.

A6 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

Downtime important for Mike Battery, 3/11

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S. CIFUENTESCpl. Guillermo J. Alvear sits down with his section, Gun 5, to have a discussion on knowledge pertaining to the M777 Light-weight Howitzer during their downtime.

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S.CIFUENTESCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

After returning from theirdeployment to Iraq in Octo-ber 2005, Mike Batterypicked back up as an artillerybattery as their training com-menced again.

During that deployment,the battery served as a mili-tary police force in Opera-tion Iraqi Freedom and con-ducted detainee operations.The battery was brokendown into platoon-sizedunits and dispatchedthroughout the country.

They now are scheduled todeploy to Okinawa, Japan, inthe near future as part of theUnit Deployment Program,thus, returning to their profes-sion as “cannoncockers.”

Recently, the battery wel-comed 20 new Marines, freshfrom their military occupa-tional specialty school in Ft.Sill, Okla., said Capt. KevinM. Stout, Mike Battery’scommanding officer.

“It’s very timely to havethem join us,” said Stout, aMartinsville, Ind., native dur-ing a recent field operation inNiland, Calif. “We were man-ning only three guns [M777Lightweight Howitzers]before they arrived. Now wewere able to have five for thisfield operation.”

The 20 new artillerymenare also contributing to thebattery by replacing the sev-eral noncommissioned offi-cers who foresee an end totheir journey in the Corps.

Most of the NCOs who areserving their last months inthe Corps came to the batteryat roughly the same time. Formany of them, and for a fewsince the very beginning, it’sbeen a long journey.

“My whole class out of Ft.Sill came to 3/11 in May of2003,” said Cpl. Frank S.Cauthorn, an artillerymanwith Mike Battery. “About 90percent of the class came toMike Battery. And about 70percent of them are still withthis battery.”

The battery had the reputa-tion of being the best artillerybattery in 3/11, added Cau-thorn, a Manteca, Calif.,native. This reputation stilllasts, as the 20 new Marineswho joined Mike Battery, arerealizing.

“I think the reason why wehave been so successful is dueto the fact that we’ve beenworking alongside each otherfor a very long time,” saidCauthorn. “I’ve seen myfriends in the battery go fromprivate to corporal orsergeant.”

Cauthorn is ending hiscareer in January. He plans onattending California State

University, Chico. “I remember the day we

bunched up together whenthey were choosing who’sgoing to which battery,” saidGilliland, reflecting on thedays shortly after he joinedMike Battery. “We werealready familiar with eachother so we wanted to staywith each other.”

Over the past three years,the battery grew close togeth-er, said Gilliland, who is thefather of 10-month-old,Michael Christopher. His closefriend, and fellow artillery-man, Cpl. Nathaniel J.Chaney, is his son’s Godfather.

“Looking back, I’ve seenMike Battery go throughsome good times, fall intosome very rough times, andwe’re back to good times,growing strong as an artilleryunit,” said Gilliland. “I’vegrown tremendously becauseof this unit. It was my leadersthat made me the way I am. Iknow I have the sameresponsibility to the newMarines now.

“As a senior and a leader, Iwant these Marines to havethe same cohesion we hadthese past three years,” con-tinued the Chula Vista, Calif.,native. “Looking forward andinto my future, I know I amgoing to miss this battery.”

Gilliland looks forward togoing into the remodelingbusiness with his father andChaney. Aside from busi-ness, he is also planning amarriage.

“There’s no other place orjob in this world that cancompare to what we’ve donein this battery,” said Cpl. RaulCervantes, motor transporta-tion driver with Mike Battery,who served alongside theartillerymen for the past threeyears. “We always knowwhat’s going on in eachother’s lives. We steer youngMarines in the right direction.The section leaders reallytake care of their Marines.Sections go out with eachother on the weekends.

“Everyone here talks aboutanything that’s on their mind,

no matter what the issue is,”continued the Los Angelesnative. “You can’t find thattype of brotherhood any-where else. It’s hard to seepeople go their separate ways.But at the same time, I’m gladMike Battery [received] somenew good Marines.”

As new artillerymen stepfoot into training and bond-ing with senior artillerymen,they become skeptical ofwhat the battery was reallyabout. They hear Mike Bat-tery is the best artillery bat-tery in 3/11 and are unsurewhat to expect. But most fitright in, Cauthorn said.

“It was tough getting toknow how things were runhere,” said Pfc. ValentePolanco, a new artillerymanwith the battery. “It’s fast-pace learning. When it comesto the field, we [the newMarines] have to keep askingquestions in order to learnhow they use the howitzer.During our downtime, theNCOs ask us questions andget us to talk to one another.

“They’re good NCOs,”added the McAllen, Texas,native. “They’re really goodleaders. I’m very glad to be apart of this. I don’t want to beanywhere else but here with

these Marines in this battery.”It’ll be a long run for the

new Marines. It was for the10 that came together August2003, said Cauthorn.

“I see these Marines aremostly very young, but theCorps will teach them tomature a lot more,” said Cau-thorn. “I took it for what it’sworth and that’s what I wantto pass on before I go.”

As Cauthorn leaves theCorps, he’ll take his mem-ories with him, but, whilehe still has time, he hopesto leave his experiencebehind in the minds of thefresh Marines.

OBSERVATION POST MAY 5, 2006 A7

Fresh artillerymen begin journey with MikeBattery as journey comes to end for their leaders

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL S. CIFUENTESLance Cpl. Haze L. McClary shares stories with Pfc. Rudy J. Gonzales and Lance Cpl. Enrique Cruz during downtime in Niland, Calif.

CPL. HEIDI E. LOREDOCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

It’s inevitable. All activitieshave risks. All risks can bemanaged, and mishaps can beprevented. Ultimately, allMarines are accountable.

Despite efforts to reducemishaps, the Marine Corpsfailed to meet a challenge in2003 presented by the secre-tary of defense to reducemishaps by 50 percent withintwo years.

The new challenge for

Marine Corps commands is toreduce mishaps by 75 percentby the end of fiscal year 2008.

As a result, the Corpsimplemented their own cru-sade through the WarriorPreservation Campaign, anidea which refreshes the cus-tom that Marines take care oftheir own, beginning at thesmall unit level.

Enhancing force preserva-tion will prevent mishaps andreduce personnel loss. Forcepreservation concepts enhancecombat readiness and reduce

the danger of all activities, onand off duty, while ensuringthat individual judgment andunit responsibility preserve theCorps’most valuable assets. Inthe end, force preservationequals improved missioneffectiveness.

Combat Center safety man-ager, William G. Huie,believes mentoring Marinesbeginning at the small unitlevel and clearly stating expec-tations both on and off duty,empowers leaders to affect aMarine’s personal develop-

ment. Loss of life due to care-less mishaps is unacceptable.

“In fiscal year 2005 morethan two platoons of Marinesdied in personal motorizedvehicles,” said Huie. “If welost two platoons in Iraq thatwould be a significant loss andit would affect the mission.”

Huie said the MarineCorps took leadership lessonslearned from Marines func-tioning in a combat environ-ment and is attempting to create the same cohesion onthe home front that exists on

the frontline.“A fire team in battle is

trained to instinctively knowwhat their comrades are goingto do,” said Huie. “That’s thesame mentality we need toinstill in Marines back here.We need to get all the Marineshere to do what they do in bat-tle — watch your buddy’s backand keep him out of trouble.”

During the 50 percentmishap reduction campaignthere were 112 fatalities,equivalent to one Marinedeath every 78 hours accord-

ing to the Naval Safety Cen-ter. As of April 26, there havebeen 75 fatalities due tomishaps, mostly from motorvehicles.

“The Marine Corps is close tolosing as many Marines in carsas we did in Iraq,” said Huie.

A solution to the loss of lifeis to place more emphasis onthe small unit leadership.

“Get to know yourMarines,” said Huie. “Knowwhat they’re doing andfamiliarize yourself withtheir behavior. The rules arethere, make sure everybodyknows them because it’s nota matter of whether theMarine doesn’t know therules. Marines know therules, sometimes they justchoose to ignore them.”

Operational risk manage-ment is critical to having asafety-conscious MarineCorps team able to sustain itslethality, meet operationalcommitments and always beready to meet unexpectedsurge requirements, all whileprotecting the Corps’ mostvalued asset, the Marines.

In combat Marines protecteach other with watchfuleyes. Huie said when Marinesreturn they act as individualsand the unit cohesiveness dis-appears.

“Get your Marines towatch each other and to takegood care of each otherwalking down the street inYucca Valley just as theywould in Fallujah.”

A8 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

Force preservation equals mission effectiveness

CPL. HEIDI E. LOREDOThe Marine Corps is close to losing as many Marines in vehicles as it has in Iraq. Force preservation is essential to mission accomplishment and has become a new challenge for MarineCorps commands.

CPL. GRAHAM A.PAULSGROVEREGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM7

JOINT BORDER COORDI-NATION CENTER RUT-BAH, Iraq — After four daysof patrolling the vast desertsof southern Al AnbarProvince, the revolvingpatrols of Marines return totheir base here for a day ortwo of rest before going back“outside the wire.”

That is, all except for two:Cpl. Jeremy D. Quackenbushand Cpl. Travis L. Cooter.

The two Marines, bothassigned to 3rd LightArmored ReconnaissanceBattalion, are charged withmore than just patrollingIraq’s dangerous roads andsearching for insurgents intowns and cities.

The Twentynine Palms,Calif.-based battalion pro-vides security in this remotecity surrounded by desert.They also are charged withassisting Iraqi Security Forcesin eventually relieving Coali-tion Forces in Al AnbarProvince.

While other Marines usetheir time off to cleanweapons, watch movies onDVDs, and converse abouttheir lives back in the States,these two Marines are teach-ing critical counterinsurgencyskills to about a dozen Iraqisoldiers here.

From urban combatpatrolling to reacting toenemy contact and impro-vised explosive devices, thesetwo Marines have spent sev-eral days conducting refreshertraining on such tactics, tech-niques and proceduresdeemed necessary for Iraqisoldiers to learn to effectivelyoperate in this combat envi-ronment.

“[Cooter and Quacken-bush] were chosen becausethese guys are good at whatthey do. They know their joband I knew they would dowell with this assignment,”said Philadelphia native, 2ndLt. James A. Brobyn, 27, theMarines’ platoon commander.“They have taught the info to

enough Marines, so teaching afew Iraqis shouldn’t be hard.”

The battalion took controlof their area of operations,spanning from the Jordanianand Syrian borders to an area120 miles east and has beenworking alongside Iraqiforces to maintain securityand stability in the region, toinclude manning the check-points surrounding the maincity in the region, Rutbah.

Working through an inter-preter, the two Marinesexplained basic patrolling for-mations, how to react tosniper fire and improvisedexplosive devices, as well asreacting to a complexambush, according to Cooter,a 20-year-old from Denverand platoon team leader.

“They were all quick learn-ers — I was impressed,” saidCooter.

After a few hours of class-es, the two Marines watchedthe Iraqi soldiers practicewhat they learned at the jointCoalition-Iraqi base here.

For the most part, theIraqis learned the techniquesquickly, and demonstratedthey understood what theywere taught, said Cooter.

“The majority of [the IraqiSoldiers] are combat vetsfrom Hit, Haditha and Bagh-dad, so they are pretty good,”said Cooter. “We’re going tobe out there with them, so it isnice that we are not startingfrom scratch.”

While the practice patrolsran smoothly, it wasn’t com-pletely free of problems. Thetwo Marines said the Iraqisstill need to work on commu-nication techniques, but thatwill come with more practice.The language barrier betweenthe Marines and the Iraqisalso presented a unique chal-lenge.

“The language barrier is alarge obstacle, but we have agood interpreter,” said Cooter.“It was difficult to get all thecommands passed, becausewe only had one interpreter

and a lot of guys in the forma-tion, so a few people didn’tknow what was going on.”

Despite the cultural andlanguage differences, a com-mon bond was made betweenthe Iraqi Soldiers and theMarines, according to bothparties.

“These guys are just likeme — they’re doing their partto help,” said Quackenbush, a28-year-old from Pittsburgh.“The small unit training, suchas refreshing a platoon ofIraqis on basic tactics, playsinto a much larger roleregarding the country’sfuture.”

By helping the Iraqisbecome more tactically profi-cient, the Marines’ efforts arehelping the Iraqis progresstoward operating independentof Coalition Forces’ assis-tance, according to Stafford,Va., native 1st Lt. Joseph R.

Shusko, 25, the executiveofficer for the battalion’sCompany A. “By makingsure these soldiers are up toour standards, the trainingwill help get the Iraqis tocomplete missions with just

our supervision and makethem the main effort.”

Currently, the Iraqi Sol-diers working around Rutbahrotate to a different part of thecountry every three weeks,but the area is slated to

receive a fixed unit of IraqiSecurity Forces some time inthe near future, according toBrobyn.

“These guys are serious —they want to make Iraq bet-ter,” concluded Brobyn.

OBSERVATION POST MAY 5, 2006 A9

Road to progress: 3rd LAR Marines trainIraqi soldiers in urban military tactics

CPL. GRAHAM A. PAULSGROVEFrom urban combat patrolling to reacting to enemy contact and improvised explosive devices, Iraqi soldiers operating in Rut-bah, Iraq, are being taught refresher training on various military tactics and techniques by 3rd LAR.

A8 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

MCCES civilian

employee ofthe year

Susan E. Fox, Marine CorpsCommunication-ElectronicsSchool supply, receives her

plaque for being selected as theMCCES civilian employee of theyear April 26 during a ceremony

at the Officer’s Club. Fox, whoalso received a 16-hour time offof work certificate, was selected

out of 24 employees who weresubmitted for eight different

award categories.

CPL. BRIAN A. TUTHILL

BMAY 5, 2006

SPORTS & LEISURE

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

In the second week of the Combat Center Commanding Gen-eral’s Intramural Softball League, Communication and DataDirectorate’s softball team, Base Tel, defeated Exercise Sup-port Division’s team, 7-5, in a game Tuesday at Felix Field.

In the seventh inning Base Tel solidified their victory bystopping a potential comeback when left fielder, George Mar-tinez, caught a fly ball hit by ESD’s pitcher, AnthonyMcWilliams, making the third and final out of the game.

The first inning was eventful for Base Tel, who had scoredfive runs and prevented any scoring by ESD.

During the next four innings, no runs were scored by eitherteam.

In the top of the fifth inning, Base Tel’s left-center fielder,Steven Hadsell, hit the ball far enough to get to first base.Then, keeping him moving, the next batter, Martinez, sailedone away to get Hadsell to third base and himself to first.

One base away from scoring, Base Tel’s right-centerfielder, John Mechaley, was up to bat. Mechaley kept hiseye on the ball, picked one good pitch and hit it far enoughfor Hadsell to walk across home base and put Martinez safeat second base.

Next up to bat was second baseman, Jamie Authement,who hit a fly ball in between the left out fielders, giving him-self a double, pushing Mechaley to third and bringing Mar-tinez home. Base Tel scored two more runs, making the score7-0 at the bottom of the fifth.

At the bottom of the sixth, ESD needed to make somemoves. McWilliams, stepped up to the plate and hit a lowgrounder past Base Tel’s third baseman, Jerrold Ross, andmade it to first. But when right center fielder, Mimi Cottrell,smacked a single out to left center, McWilliams was taggedout on his way to second base.

Then, Base Tel’s pitcher, John Patton, walked shortstop,Austin Yu, sending Cottrell to second, as catcher, HumbertoRodriguez came to bat. Rodriguez hit the ball over the infieldand between the right-out fielders, filling the bases.

Left-center fielder, Roberto Brown, was up to bat nextwith the bases loaded. He waited for the right pitch and thenhit a groundball triple between the legs of Base Tel’s firstbaseman, Larry Gulick. That left Base Tel’s right fielder, Dar-ryl Taber, scrambling over the ball while Cottrell ran homewith Yu and Rodriguez trailing close behind, scoring threeruns, with Brown safe at third. The fifth inning ended with thescore at 7-3.

For the remainder of the game, Base Tel kept up a decentdefense, but lost their offense, not scoring any runs. This gaveESD a slight chance of a comeback as they stepped up to batin the seventh and final inning.

ESD’s first baseman Dalton Black hit a line-drive singlethat bounced off the chest of Base Tel’s third baseman, Ross.

Then with Black ready to run at first, ESD’s left fielder,James Molloy, hit an in-the-park homerun, scoring two runs.

That would be the last two runs of the game, when the nextthree outs were made with all pop flies caught in the outfield.

The game ended with a Base Tel win, 7-5. Base Tel nowhas a 2-2 record so far for the season, and ESD went homewith a 0-3 record.

For Base Tel, credit for their defensive play went to theirpitcher, said Gulick.

“I think the significant player last night was our pitcher,John Patton, because of his ability to suck up any ball hit up

the middle,” he explained the next day. The rest of the team claims it’s nice to win, but they play

for the fun of the sport, said Adrian Samson, Base Tel’s short-stop.

“The game went well,” he said. “We were out here havinga good time and as long as we play together, we usually win.”

“Although ESD lost, they have hopes of seeing victorywhen the rest of their team comes back to finish the season,said ESD’s Black.

“We’re not as bad as our record shows,” he explained.“We’re missing half of our team so we don’t have manyoptions for our line up.”

But right fielder, Jacob Smith, believes there’s more to itthan half the team missing, he said.

“We’re not waiting for the best pitch,” he said. “We goafter the first one and it usually isn’t the most effective one.”

Games are scheduled to be played every Tuesday andThursday evening and some Wednesday evenings atFelix Field.

Final scores from Tuesday’s games:• Installation Personnel Administration Center beat

Naval Hospital, 14-12.• Staff Judge Advocate beat Headquarters Battalion,

15-4.• 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, beat HQBN 2,

15-1.• 1st Tank Battalion beat Tactical Training Exercise

Control Group, 12-0.• Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School

beat HQBN 2, 17-6.• Tanks beat 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment,

16-14.

Base Tel defeats ESD, 7-5 in CG softball action

CPL. BRIAN A.TUTHILLCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Volunteers from around the Combat Center were recognizedfor their dedication and service throughout 2005 in a ceremo-ny April 26 at the Community Center.

More than 125 people turned out as 12 volunteer programswere recognized, representing more than 700 volunteers whosaved $1,586,063.63 for their 95,546 hours of work.

The amount of hours volunteered and money saved was anincrease from last year’s $1.3 million.

Recognized at the event were the coordinators of the KeyVolunteer Network, Religious Ministries, Navy-Marine CorpsRelief Society, American Red Cross, Armed Services YMCA,Toys for Tots, Single Marine Program, retired affairs, youthprograms, Lifestyle Insights, Networking and Skills spousaleducation program and the Official Huggers.

Christina Curtin, coordinator for volunteer programs aboardthe base, presented Brig. Gen. Douglas M. Stone, Combat Cen-ter commanding general, with a check representing the moneysaved by volunteers according to the national hourly volunteerworth.

“I thank you for donating your time and energy and for theinspiration you give us,” Stone said to the crowd. “There arehundreds of thousands of people out there who have been the

recipients of your kindness; people who you have touched.“I stand here today, not as a guest speaker, but as a repre-

sentative for all of those people to be able to say, ‘Thank you,’”Stone said.

In addition to recognizing programs, attendees also partici-pated in a door prize raffle for gifts donated by Marine CorpsCommunity Services.

“Without our volunteers, what we do would not be possi-ble,” said Navy Capt. David A. Starkey, director of ReligiousMinistries. “I want to thank you all from the bottom of myheart. Your reward is far greater than a piece of paper.”

One volunteer with the Official Huggers program was sin-gled out by Larry Stratton, head of MCCS Family Teambuild-ing, as he spoke about the program.

“There is one lady who has been the pillar of the Official

Huggers program,” Stratton said. “She’s been out there throughthe cold and in the middle of the night. She moved me to tearsonce when she hugged a Marine leaving for Iraq and told him,‘This is for your momma.’ I cried, she cried, the Marine criedand he said, ‘Thank you, mom.’ Then he left. That special ladyis Jany Wasdin.”

Wasdin received a standing ovation from the room as Stoneand Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, Combat Center sergeant major,both walked over and gave her a hug to thank her for her out-standing dedication.

Curtin then again took the podium to convey her finalthoughts as the ceremony closed.

“It’s a privilege to recognize all of you today,” she said. “Sofor your skills and your talents and your sacrifices to our mili-tary families aboard this base, thank you.”

Combat Center volunteers save $1.5 million

TEAMS WINS LOSSESPMO 3 0SJA 3 0TANKS 3 0VMU 3 0CLB-7 2 0MCCES 2 0AAV’s #1 3 13/11 2 1IPAC 2 1HQBN (BP) 2 2TANKS (Comm) 1 2HQBN # 2 1 3AAV’s #2 0 12/7 0 3ESD 0 3HOSPITAL 0 3HQBN 0 3TTECG 0 3

Commanding General’s Intramural Softball LeagueStandings as of Tuesday

CPL. BRIAN A. TUTHILLJany Wasdin, a MCCS Official Hugger, receives a hug fromBrig. Gen. Douglas M. Stone, Combat Center commandinggeneral and Sgt. Maj. William Johnson.

CPL. BRIAN A. TUTHILLChristina Curtin, a coordinator for volunteer programs aboard the Combat Center, presents Brig. Gen. Douglas M. Stone,Combat Center commanding general, with a check for $1.5 million in money saved by base volunteer efforts.

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZExercise Support Division’s pitcher, Anthony McWilliams,pitches the ball to Base Tel’s batters.

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZBase Tel’s coach and first baseman, Larry Gulick, is ready toswing at a pitch from ESD’s pitcher, Anthony McWilliams.

B2 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

American Red Cross gives lifesavingtools in CPR, conducts first aid class

LANCE CPL. REGINA N.ORTIZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

With more than 75 to 80 per-cent of all out-of-hospitalcardiac arrests happening athome, and 7 to 10 percent ofa victim’s survival chancesdropping every minute car-diopulmonary resuscitationis delayed, having the skillsto provide CPR can helpsave the life of a familymember or friend.

The American Red Crossheld a first aid and CPR classto give those tools to CombatCenter community membersat the Village Center Satur-day.

People who completed theclass were given certificationof the acquired skills from theeight-hour class.

First aid and CPR certifi-cation opens many doors foremployment and life oppor-tunities, said Navy Lt.Nicole Panos, volunteerinstructor, ARC.

“There are a lot of jobsthat have the CPR and firstaid certification as a prereq-uisite,” she explained.“Jobs such as an EMT(emergency medical techni-cian) or a childcareprovider. People in thoseprofessions need to keeptheir certification up todate.”

The CPR certification isvalid for a year and the firstaid certification expires afterthree years, said Panos.

For Lance Cpl. PhillipBernocco and his wife, Amy,both 22, completing thecourse will mean they will beable to foster a child.

If having their 5-monthold daughter, Lucy, isn’tenough, they want to help thecommunity and provide agood home to a child in need,said Amy.

“I love kids,” she said. “Iwant to help people as muchas I can.”

Not only for the sake oftheir children, but theBernoccos are taking thiscourse for the sake of helpinganyone in need, they said.

“You never know whenyou’re going to be in a situa-tion where you can savesomeone’s life,” said Amy. “Iwant to be able to know whatto do when something hap-pens to one of my children, orto anyone for that matter.”

As a Marine, reacting toemergency situations andknowing how to react is partof the training, said Bernocco.

“These are skills we aretaught in basic training, butare important to continuelearning throughout yourlife,” explained Bernocco.“Especially being in the com-bat zone, it could be a matterof life or death.”

The course is taughtthrough a series of workbookexercises, lectures, videosand tests. There are three dif-ferent types of CPR taught:adult, infant and child. Then,basic first aid procedures arecovered. This includes theHeimlich maneuver, how toapply splints, and sudden ill-ness response.

“The main idea is to givepeople the tools to be able tostabilize a medical emer-gency until professional med-ical assistance is available,”said Panos. “We want peopleto feel confident that eventhough they are not a doctoror a medical expert, they canmake a difference in an emer-gency situation.”

The CPR and first aidclass is held every month atthe Combat Center. There areclasses given more frequentlyat the Morongo Basin Ameri-can Red Cross Chapter inJoshua Tree, Calif., about 20miles from the Combat Cen-ter. There is a $50 fee thatgoes toward class suppliesand certification cards. Formore information on the nextARC CPR and first aid class,call 760-366-5330.

LANCE CPL. REGINA N. ORTIZLance Cpl. Phillip Bernocco, 1st Tank Battalion, practices applying a splint to his wife, Amy, during an American Red Cross CPR and first aid class at theVillage Center Saturday.

OBSERVATION POST MAY 5, 2006 B3

In one day,

an average

person will take

18,000 steps.

DID YOU KNOW?

CINCO DE MAYO

DANCE

The Hispanic Heritage

Committee will celebrate

Cinco de Mayo with a

dance Saturday, at Hash-

marks Staff NCO Club

from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Enjoy

prize giveaways, food, and

music. Cost is $5 for sin-

gles and $8 for couples.

ALL HANDS WEL-

COME. For more informa-

tion call 830-6366 or 367-

5380.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

ROUND-UP

Annual Chaparral Artists

will hold an “Arts and

Crafts Round-Up,” Satur-

day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at

the Joshua Tree Communi-

ty Center located at 6171

Sunburst Rd. For more

information or if you would

like to be a vender call Julia

at 365-6236.

WE SALUTE YOU

CELEBRATION

Marine Corps Community

Services is hosting the We

Salute You Celebration on

May 20 from 4 to 10 p.m. at

Victory Field. The event is

free and will include BBQ,

games and a concert featur-

ing the Combat Center

Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

The event is open to all eli-

gible patrons. No outside

alcohol, pets or audio,

video or flash photography.

LEISURE

SPORT SHORTS

STEP CLASSES

Step Classes are available

at the West Gym on Mon-

days, Tuesdays, Thurs-

days and Fridays at 6 a.m.

For more information, call

830-4131.

YOGA CLASSES

Yoga classes are available

from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the

Community Center and

from 5 to 5:45 p.m. at the

East Gym. For more infor-

mation please call 830-4131

2005 Marine Corps Athletesof the Year announcedPRESS RELEASE

MCB QUANTICO, VA — Sgt. Jeremy Brown and Sgt. Kristin Taft havebeen selected as the U.S. Marine Corps Male and Female Athletes of theYear for 2005.

The pair will be honored at the Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame Induc-tion Luncheon Ceremony at the Clubs at Quantico in Quantico, VA. Theceremony is scheduled for 28 July 2006.

Brown, the head of the Separations Section of the Consolidated Admin-istration center at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., was a memberof multiple All-Marine teams and the first Marine to cross the finish line atthe 2005 Marine Corps Marathon. During 2005, Brown won the SilverStrand Half Marathon, Pacific Beach 8K, and several other events in South-ern California. In addition, Brown was the top finisher of multiple 5k racesat Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and MCAS Miramar. Brown fin-ished the year winning the MCAS Miramar Cross Country Championshipand captured his second consecutive title as All-Marine Cross CountryChampion. For his accomplishments, MCAS Miramar named SergeantBrown the Base Athlete of the Year.

Taft, a supply sergeant assigned to Headquarters and Services Battalionat Marine Corps Base Hawaii, was the starting pitcher for the All-MarineWomen’s Softball Team and the MCB Hawaii Female Athlete of the Year.During 2005, Taft was a member of numerous local Hawaiian softballteams, leading the base Women’s Team to an undefeated season. Selectedto the All-Marine Women’s Softball team for a fourth time, Taft led theteam to a second place finish at the National Softball Association StateChampionship in Phoenix. In addition, Taft was also a member of MCBHawaii’s Women’s Basketball team.

For more information about the Athlete's of the Year program or theMarine Corps Sports Hall of Fame, please contact Steven Dinote,HQMC Semper Fit, (703) 784-9542 or E-mail: steven.dinote@usmc.mil.

All outdoor activities and train-ing must be suspended. Weatherconditions are too dangerous forexercise or movement outside.

Strenuous exercise must be halt-ed or reduced for Marines andSailors who haven’t had up to 12weeks to acclimatize.

Strenuous exercise and activitymust be reduced for new, un-acclimatized personnel duringthe first three weeks of heatexposure. Avoid outside classes.

Exercise can be conducted anddiscretion is required for allheavy exercise unless acclima-tized to desert conditions.

GREEN80° – 84.9°*

YELLOW85° – 87.9°*

RED88° – 89.9°*

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B4 MAY 5, 2006 OBSERVATION POST

CPL. BRIAN A.TUTHILLCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — CombatCenter Marines with the Single Marine Pro-gram volunteered their time Saturday to helpout their local community at Luckie Park.

Nine Marines from various battalionsaround base donated their time and efforts tosupport the Twentynine Palms High School-hosted swim meet which included sevenregional high schools, and more than 100swimmers and spectators in attendance.

Single Marines from 3rd Battalion, 11thMarine Regiment; 2nd Battalion, 7th MarineRegiment; 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regi-ment; and the Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School donated their time to helpset up, tear down, keep time and work conces-sions stands, said Irene Beard, meet manager.

“You have to have the volunteers in order torun this meet, if you don’t have them, wecould not do it,” Beard said. “We loved havingthe Marines out here today, they were great.We’ve invited them back for our next meethere June 3, and hopefully any other swimmeets we have in the future, too.”

Lance Cpl. Jeffery A. Rocha, rifleman,Echo Company, 2/7, said he enjoys volunteer-ing in the community because he feels he getssomething more in return.

“I really like helping, it’s my heart’s desire,helping and trying to encourage others,” saidRocha, a 21-year-old Saipan native. “I want to

have more time to myself and have some timeto breathe away from base. This gives me theopportunity to make new friends and just helpout in the community for the love of it. It alsohelps put out a positive image about theMarine Corps.

“I’ve had a good time out here today andI’ll [volunteer] again,” Rocha added.

As the day heated up, Marines cooled offby staying in the shade, drinking plenty ofwater or staying poolside and hoping for ahigh-flying splash to come their way asHeather Fiske, SMP coordinator did.

“A lot of organizations have put SMP ontheir calendars to help out, and new ones areasking for us more and more,” said Fiske, whohas seen a boom in SMP community volunteerevents in recent months. “The guys have agreat time — I mean they truly had a blast.They don’t care if it’s a recreation trip or of it’scommunity involvement, they are mostly justlooking for something to do on the weekend.

“The community support is just as muchfun as a trip because most find that they reallyenjoy helping out and working with the localyouths,” continued Fiske, who has also sched-uled SMP to help out with the upcomingsoapbox derby, Special Olympics, swim meetsand the Marine Corps Community Services“We Salute You” concert.

“We’re starting to get more and more atten-tion in the community,” said Fiske. “Word isgetting out about SMP.”

SMP Marines give back to community

CPL. BRIAN A. TUTHILLVolunteer timers Lance Cpl. Steven Kidder, Weapons Company, 3/4, and Pvt. Ryan Bennett,MCCES, time swimmers during a swim meet Saturday at Luckie Park.

CPL. BRIAN A. TUTHILLSwimmers warm up in the Luckie Park pool prior to a swim meet Saturday where nine Com-bat Center Marines assisted with the event.