RAV helps Marines make decision to stay with Corps
AL TAQADDUM, Iraq (July 20, 2007) -- Since arriving here in January, more than 300 Marines with 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) have reenlisted. A retention assist visit conducted by monitors of a number of military occupational specialties at the Headquarters Company office here July 20 helped that number grow by 85 and counting.
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July 20, 2007; Submitted on: 07/29/2007 03:28:03 PM ; Story ID#: 200772915283
By Cpl. Thomas J. Griffith, 2nd Marine Logistics Group
The intent of the visit was to try and reenlist as many Marines from fiscal years 2007 and 2008 as possible to meet the Marine Corps’ end-state strength goal of 202,000 Marines by the close of fiscal year 2011. The Corps hopes that by swelling its ranks by 23,000 additional troops, they will be able to ease the strain of deployment cycles and increase operational readiness around the globe.
“It will allow a 2-to-1 dwell to deployment time,” said Master Sgt. Terry Cole, career retention specialist for 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward).
Cole, a Salt Lake City native, explained that many Marines reenlist while deployed because of the tax-free bonus, adding that more than $7 million has been awarded for reenlistment bonuses so far.
With an arsenal of selective reenlistment bonuses, duty stations and the possibility of lateral moves, the monitors began their tour of Al Anbar province in Camp Fallujah on July 7.
“We’re not trying to buy your service, we’re thanking you for your service,” said Sgt. Maj. Gary W. Weiser, sergeant major of Manpower Management Enlisted Affairs. “I can’t think of a better way to use tax dollars than to give it to you all.”
The RAV led to mass reenlistment ceremonies, such as one held by 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, in which 40 Marines reenlisted July 24.
“We need experienced leaders to shape and mold our new Marines,” said Weiser, a Noxon, Mont., native. “We’re here to make you an offer you can’t refuse.”
Lieutenant Col. Phillip W. Boggs, commanding officer of 1st Bn., 11th Marines, said although deployments can be difficult at times, his Marines “understand the importance of the mission and, as evidenced by the mass reenlistment…are still dedicated to seeing the mission through.”
The monitors completed their trip July 22 and stopped to speak with Marines in Kuwait before returning to the states.