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March 3, 2016

Images: 31st MEU arrives in Republic of Korea

U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Darien J. Bjorndal, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit/ Released
Date Posted:03.03.2016 00:38

The USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) pulls into port at Busan, Republic of Korea, March 3, 2016. The Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are currently embarked on Navy ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group as part of their spring deployment to the Asia-Pacific region.

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February 23, 2016

SPRING DEPLOYMENT: MARINES, NAVY TAKE TO THE WATER DURING INTEGRATION TRAINING

By Gunnery Sgt. Zachary Dyer, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
23 Feb 2016

OKINAWA, Japan -- “A ship without Marines is like a garment without buttons.”

Continue reading "SPRING DEPLOYMENT: MARINES, NAVY TAKE TO THE WATER DURING INTEGRATION TRAINING" »

February 20, 2016

Marines Helocast During Cobra Gold

by Cpl Thor Larson
Date Taken:02.10.2016 | Date Posted:02.20.2016 2:19AM

Royal Thai, Republic of Korea and U.S. Marines helocast from an MV-22B Osprey Feb. 10, 2016 during Cobra Gold 16 in Thailand. This was one of the first times an Osprey has conducted helocasting. CG16 increases cooperation, interoperability and collaboration among partner nations in order to achieve effective solutions to common challenges

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February 8, 2016

MARINES WITH HMLA-267 SUPPORT SCORPION FIRE

By Lance Cpl. Harley Robinson, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar
8 Feb 2016

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif -- Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 took part in exercise Scorpion Fire 1-16 on and near Naval Air Facility El Centro, California, Jan. 25 to Feb. 5, 2016.

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February 6, 2016

Images: 31st MEU, Bonhomme Richard depart Okinawa

U.S. Marine Corps photos by Gunnery Sgt. Zachary Dyer/Released
Date Posted:02.06.2016 20:44

The USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) pulls out of port at White Beach, Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 6, 2016. The Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU and the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group are currently on their spring deployment to the Asia-Pacific region.

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February 1, 2016

Shirtless Marines hit the snow in South Korea during sub-zero temps

By Jeff Schogol, Marine Corps Times 12:18 p.m. EST February 1, 2016

There’s training and then there’s recon training.

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January 30, 2016

Images: 31st MEU embarks aboard the USS Ashland (LSD 48)

U.S. Marine Corps photos by Gunnery Sergeant Ismael Pena/Released
Date Taken:01.29.2016 | Date Posted:01.30.2016 09:28

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, loaded their AAVs onto the USS Ashland (LSD 48) before departing for the MEU's spring deployment. The Spring Deployment is a regularly scheduled deployment designed to support PACOM's theater security cooperation initiatives to promote goodwill, and strengthen allied relationships.

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January 25, 2016

NAVY CORPSMEN CONTINUE SUPPORT OF MARINE OPERATIONS, TRAINING

By Cpl. Janessa Pon, II Marine Expeditionary Force
25 Jan 2016

COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER CAMP FUJI, Japan -- For more than 239 years, Navy corpsmen have been known as the enlisted force which has supported Marine operations and training both garrison and the field.

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January 15, 2016

MEU MARINES TRAIN FOR JUNGLE COMBAT

By Lance Cpl. Carl King, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
15 Jan 2016

CAMP HANSEN OKINAWA, Japan -- His bulky, brown pack soaked in rain water made it a challenge to walk up the already steep hills of the jungle. His shoulders ached in a constant, annoying pain from the weight of the pack. The mud under his feet made him slip and fall every 100 steps. Through all these tangible problems and an array of intangibles, the Marine kept his composure and focused on the mission at hand – to locate, close with and destroy his enemy.

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December 22, 2015

Marine Corps Pilot Flies New King Stallion

Marine Corps News | Dec 21, 2015

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Lt. Col. became the first U.S. Marine to fly the Corps’ CH-53K helicopter Dec. 18, 2015 at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation's Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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December 14, 2015

'Rhinos' support Steel Knight 2016

by LCpl Levi Schultz
Date Taken:12.11.2015 | Date Posted:12.14.2015 16:41

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - The F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter personifies great strides in modern air dominance capability. Among its characteristics of radar-evading stealth, supersonic speeds, fighter agility and advanced logistical support comes the capability to perform vertical take-off and landings.

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November 22, 2015

Bridging the gap: 8th, 9th ESB concludes MGB Bridge Master’s Course

U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Paul S. Martinez/Released
Date Taken:11.18.2015 | Date Posted:11.20.2015 09:13

Marine students attending the 8th Engineer Support Battalion Medium Girder Bridge Master’s Course during a field exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Nov. 18, 2015.

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November 14, 2015

BREACH, CLEAR: MPS TRAIN IN COMBAT TOWN

By Cpl. Abbey Perria, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
14 Nov 2015

CENTRAL TRAINING CENTER, OKINAWA, Japan -- “Did gunny or the lieutenant kill you?” a group of Marines casually ask each other after clearing a house at Snipe Mount, Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Red and blue chalk dots speckle the Marines’ uniforms; evidence of the recent simulated gunfight.

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October 22, 2015

Marines Identify Maj. Taj Sareen as Pilot Killed in England Hornet Crash

By: Sam LaGrone
October 22, 2015 8:05 PM

The Marines have identified the pilot who died following a Wednesday fighter crash in England.

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October 20, 2015

Navy to name ship after Medal of Honor recipient Hershel 'Woody' Williams

Tuesday, October 20, 2015
by Elaina Sauber, Putnam County Reporter

Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., on Tuesday applauded the Navy for its decision to name a ship after Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams, seen here with Manchin in 2014 after addressing the Marine Corps League National Convention at Embassy Suites. Hershel is the last surviving veteran of the Battle of Iwo Jima to have been awarded a Medal of Honor.

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October 13, 2015

A ‘Cush’ Landing

By Cpl. John Baker | I Marine Expeditionary Force | October 13, 2015

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Marines are known for their ability to stay calm under pressure and approach problems with a keen understanding of the dangers around them. For everything that could go wrong, no matter how unlikely, there is a plan in place that Marines are ready to execute at a moment’s notice.

The Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command’s Capt., a pilot with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 along with his crew, proved once again that there’s nothing they’re not ready for.

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August 24, 2015

US MARINES AID SAIPAN WITH TYPHOON RELIEF EFFORTS

By Cpl. Ryan Mains, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
24 Aug 2015

SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands -- The western North Pacific has historically been one of the most active tropical cyclone areas in the world. Year after year, tropical storms devastate the many islands in the Pacific. In early August, Typhoon Soudelor, the most powerful storm of the year, rocked across the Pacific before finally blowing itself out over China. The first place the typhoon hit was the small island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, Aug. 2-3.

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August 22, 2015

U.S. Marines aid Saipan with typhoon relief efforts

by Cpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:08.20.2015 | Date Posted:08.22.2015 11:22

SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands - The western North Pacific has historically been one of the most active tropical cyclone areas in the world. Year after year, tropical storms devastate the many islands in the Pacific. In early August, Typhoon Soudelor, the most powerful storm of the year, rocked across the Pacific before finally blowing itself out over China. The first place the typhoon hit was the small island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, Aug. 2-3.

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August 19, 2015

British Royal Marine First to Embed With US Marines in New Program

Stars and Stripes | Aug 19, 2015 | by Matthew M. Burke

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa -- A mysterious commando has been spotted across Asia, accompanying U.S. Marines from Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, since they arrived in Okinawa on the Unit Deployment Program in February.

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August 10, 2015

CLC-36 IMPROVES SERVICE MEMBERS’ COMBAT READINESS

By Lance Cpl. Carlos Cruz Jr., Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan
10 Aug 2015

COMBINED ARMS TRAINING CENTER CAMP FUJI, SHIZUOKA, Japan -- Combat Logistics Company 36 Marines and augments returned to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 4, from Exercise Dragon Fire 2015 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan.

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August 8, 2015

31st MEU and Ashland transport water into Saipan

By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class David A. Cox, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs
Date Posted:08.08.2015 20:49

SAIPAN HARBOR, Northern Mariana Islands – The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Ashland (LSD 48) arrived in Saipan on Aug. 9 and is providing disaster relief in the wake of Typhoon Soudelor.

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July 25, 2015

Tarawa Marines Return Home After 70 Years

U.S. Marine Corps video by Staff Sgt. Jason W. Fudge // RELEASED
Date Posted:07.25.2015 8:12AM

U.S. Marines travel to Tarawa, Kiribati to participate in a repatriation ceremony July 25, 2015. During the ceremony the remains of approximately 36 U.S. Marines who had fallen during World War II at the Battle of Tarawa were loaded onto a Marine Corps C-130J Hercules aircraft for transport back to the U.S.

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July 19, 2015

MCCS supports Marines in Exercise Dragon Fire 2015

by LCpl Carlos Cruz Jr.
Date Posted:07.19.2015 04:45

IWAKUNI, Japan - Out in the field where Marines may lack showers, laundry mats or even mess halls, Marine Corps Community Services’ Tactical Field Exchange comes through, bringing happiness like a glass of cold water in the summer.

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July 16, 2015

U.S. Marines, Australians conduct amphibious assault for Talisman Sabre 2015

by SSgt Zachary Dyer
Date Taken:07.11.2015 | Date Posted:07.16.2015 08:50

FOG BAY, Australia - The Marine Corps has long been synonymous with ship to shore operations. From the Marines’ first amphibious landing at the Battle of Nassau in 1776 to now, the Marine Corp has established itself as the premier force in amphibious assaults.

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July 15, 2015

USS Green Bay, the newest LPD class supporting Talisman Sabre 2015

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Derek A. Harkins
Date Posted:07.15.2015 23:38

INDIAN OCEAN – There is a new player at Talisman Sabre 2015, and it comes in the innovative form of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20).

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July 11, 2015

31st MEU Marines and Australian Soldiers conduct boat raid for Talisman Sabre 2015

Photos by LCpl Brian Bekkala/Released
Date Posted:07.11.2015 03:55

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and members of the 2nd Royal Australian Regiment assault a beach using Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Crafts during an amphibious assault exercise as part of Talisman Sabre 15. Northern Territory, Australia, July 11. Talisman Sabre provides an invaluable opportunity to conduct operations in a combined, joint, and interagency environment that will increase the U.S and Australia’s ability to plan and execute contingency responses, from combat missions to humanitarian efforts.

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Images: 31st MEU Supports an Amphibious Assault during Talisman Sabre 15

U.S. Marine Corps photos by GySgt Ismael Pena/released
Date Posted:07.11.2015 11:07

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit along with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, in support of an amphibious assault during exercise Talisman Sabre 2015 aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary (LHD 6), at sea, Australia, July 11, 2015. Talisman Sabre is a major bilateral exercise that demonstrates the strong Australian-U.S. alliance and military relationship.

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June 15, 2015

Beyond the fundamentals: Battalion Landing Team Marines conduct weapons training at sea

Story by Cpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:06.12.2015 | Date Posted:06.15.2015 10:15

AT SEA - Waking up to the sight of the sun rising on the distant horizon over the vast waters of the Pacific ocean might be a paradise for some, but for Marines embarked on a U.S. Navy vessel at sea, it is just another opportunity to sight in on their weapons and fire rounds down range.

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June 10, 2015

Video: Marines Compete in Strongman Competitions

Courtesy Video
Date Taken:06.10.2015 | Date Posted:06.10.2015 8:28PM

Marines with III Marine Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force participate in the Highland Games June 5 at Camp Hansen. The Highland Games were inspired by traditional Scottish physical competitions consisting of various events including sheep toss, tug-of-war and the caber toss.

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June 8, 2015

Video: See Why Marines and K9 Make the Best Team

Date Taken:06.6.2015 | Date Posted:06.8.2015 7:11PM

A military working dog handler, talks about the relationships formed between his fellow handlers and their dogs and the role of Provost Marshal's Office K9 units on military bases.

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May 12, 2015

The Muscle of the Marine Corps

Story by LCpl Tyler Ngiraswei
Date Posted:05.12.2015 06:30

CAMP HANSEN, Japan - U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit must transport thousands of pounds of equipment all throughout the Asia-Pacific.

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May 7, 2015

JGSDF comes together with U.S. Marines

Story by Cpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:04.28.2015 | Date Posted:05.07.2015 03:14

KIN BLUE, OKINAWA, Japan – A day by the ocean for beachgoers means relaxing in the sand, swimming or enjoying the sound of the waves splashing onto the shore, but a normal beach day for U.S. Marines is much different

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May 2, 2015

US troops, aircraft heading to Nepal delayed a day

By Seth Robson
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 2, 2015

KATHMANDU, Nepal — Four tilt-rotor V-22 Ospreys, other U.S. aircraft and 150 military personnel headed to Nepal to boost earthquake relief efforts have been delayed a day and are now expected to arrive Sunday.

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April 24, 2015

Video: U.S. Marines Connect with Local School Children

U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Ricardo Hurtado
Date Taken:04.20.2015 | Date Posted:04.24.2015 9:30PM

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd and 4th Marine Regiments, visited Santa Juliana Elementary School in Crow Valley, Tarlac, Philippines, April 20, during exercise Balikatan 2015. The Marines played games and read with children at the school. Balikatan is an annual Philippines-U.S. military training exercise and humanitarian civic assistance engagement, which highlights the longstanding partnership between both nations. This year's iteration takes place from April 20-30.

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CLB-3 awarded unit, volunteer of year

Story by Kristen Wong
Date Posted:04.24.2015 21:51

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Combat Logistics Battalion 3 is the 2015 Volunteer Unit of the Year and had one of their own chosen as 2015 Volunteer of the Year at Marine Corps Base Hawaii’s annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony in the Fairways Ballroom at the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course, April 16, 2015.

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April 16, 2015

US Marines return to Okinawa after patrolling the Asia-Pacific

Story by LCpl Tyler Ngiraswei
Date Taken:04.07.2015 | Date Posted:04.16.2015 14:37

OKINAWA, Japan - U.S. Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to Okinawa April 4 after completing a two-month patrol throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

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April 15, 2015

Marine Helicopter Makes Emergency Beach Landing

By Monica Garske
April 15, 2015

A U.S. Marine helicopter made an emergency landing on a beach in north San Diego Wednesday after receiving a low oil pressure indicator, U.S. Marine Corps officials confirmed.

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March 22, 2015

Images: Greyhawks: 15th MEU Marines are cleared hot

Photos by Sgt. Jamean Berry/Released)
Date Taken:03.20.2015 | Date Posted:03.22.2015 22:33

Images of 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), San Clemente Island, Calif., March 20, 2015. COMPTUEX gives the Marines the opportunity to practice real-world scenarios and hone their skill sets.

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March 17, 2015

Video: Women's History Month 2015, milestones in female military aviation

by Cpl Michael Thorn
Date Posted:03.17.2015 6:03PM

MCAS Miramar and 3rd MAW commemorate Women's History Month through the accomplishments of female aviators in the military.

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March 15, 2015

Squad Leader Development Program: Your questions answered

By Hope Hodge Seck, Staff writer 10:07 a.m. EDT March 15, 2015

The Marine Corps' new plan for developing infantry squad leaders offers instant promotion, a handsome bonus and a chance to deploy — and some grunts are wondering if there's a catch.

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March 11, 2015

Video: B-roll of DRMO: Where Gear Goes to Die

by Lance Corporal Jonathan Smith
Date Taken:03.10.2015 | Date Posted:03.11.2015 12:42AM

Where does gear go when it no longer serves its perceived purpose?

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February 19, 2015

USS Green Bay arrives in Sasebo

Courtesy story
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Edward Guttierrez III, USS Green Bay Public Affairs
Date Posted:02.19.2015 01:14

SASEBO, Japan - Sasebo, Japan –- USS Green Bay (LPD 20) arrived in Sasebo February 19 bringing the Navy’s latest technology to its largest numbered Fleet after transiting the Pacific Ocean from its former homeport of San Diego.

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February 9, 2015

Dates announced for spring US-South Korea exercises

By Ashley Rowland
Stars and Stripes
Published: February 9, 2014

SEOUL — The U.S. and South Korea announced plans Monday for two annual spring military exercises, which come amid questions of whether Seoul will assume wartime control of allied forces as planned next year.

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February 7, 2015

No Better Dojo – The Amphibious Assault Ship

Story by SSgt Joseph Digirolamo
Date Taken:02.06.2015 | Date Posted:02.07.2015 08:09

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At sea - A gymnasium, a boxing ring, a wrestling mat, an octagon, an indoor padded garage or an outdoor spot on the grass - there are many different types of places to practice and learn martial arts. The Japanese call it a Dojo. They are everywhere on Okinawa. But a U.S. Marine will likely tell you there is no better place to train in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program than inside the hull of an amphibious assault ship.

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January 26, 2015

USS Green Bay moves to Japan

By Jeanette Steele1:58 P.M.JAN. 26, 2015Updated9:34 A.M.JAN. 27, 2015

San Diego said goodbye to the amphibious ship Green Bay on Monday, as another local warship transfers to Japan.

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January 19, 2015

Locate, Close with and Destroy

Story by Cpl Tony Simmons
Date Taken:01.11.2015 | Date Posted:01.19.2015 02:31

U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY - The mission of the Marine Corps rifle squad is to locate, close with and destroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, or repel the enemy assault by fire and close combat; a lesson Marines are taught in boot camp that is carried throughout their entire career.

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January 16, 2015

Avengers Ordnance Marines Inspect What They Expect

by Cpl Tony Simmons
Date Taken:01.14.2015 | Date Posted:01.16.2015 01:26

Aviation ordnance technicians with VMA-211, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, inspect the ordnance of an AV-8B Harrier Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft before a flight in support of Operation Inherent Resolve in the Central Command area of operations, Jan. 14, 2015.

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January 4, 2015

Off the Leash: LE Detachment Conducts Controlled Aggression Training

by Cpl Carson Gramley
Date Taken:12.28.2014 | Date Posted:01.04.2015 02:48

U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND -- Marines and working dogs with Law Enforcement Detachment, Command Element, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command, conducted controlled aggression training in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, Dec. 28, 2014.

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December 9, 2014

Holiday cheer runs through Camp Hansen

Courtesy Photo
Date Taken:12.03.2014 | Date Posted:12.09.2014 02:44

Marines with 3rd Intelligence Battalion got the base in the holiday spirit where they donned Santa costumes, antlers and other festive accessories during the three kilometer run during the Jingle Bell Fun Run Dec. 3 on the parade field at Camp Hansen.

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November 27, 2014

To serve and protect: PMO trains to save lives

Story by LCpl Isaac Ibarra
Date Posted:11.27.2014 05:42

CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan —In the previous 14 years, more than 160 active shooter instances have occurred resulting in casualties in communities throughout the U.S. Military installations are also susceptible to these types of emergencies. As first responders, military police must remain ready to keep their community safe and respond to all types of emergencies.

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October 24, 2014

Navy, Marine Corps engage in exercise Pacific Horizon 2015

by SN Jonathan Nelson
Date Taken:10.24.2014 | Date Posted:10.25.2014 00:01

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON , Calif. - Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and the 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade participated in Navy-Marine Corps joint exercise Pacific Horizon 2015 from Oct. 20-28.

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October 20, 2014

Sit, stay, rappel: Dogs fast rope with their handlers

Story by LCpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:10.07.2014 | Date Posted:10.20.2014 19:39

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan – Military working dog handlers put a spin on the old adage, ‘teach an old dog new tricks,’ by participating in a fast-roping exercise with their dogs Oct. 7 at the Camp Hansen rappel tower.

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HMLA-169 Marines help Carlsbad community with post-fire cleanup

Story by Cpl Michael Thorn
Date Taken:10.18.2014 | Date Posted:10.20.2014 18:25

CARLSBAD, Calif. – Marines from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 169 aid local volunteers by cleaning up a fire-damaged area, in Carlsbad, Calif., Oct. 18.

Continue reading "HMLA-169 Marines help Carlsbad community with post-fire cleanup" »

October 8, 2014

Sick Marines a medical whodunnit for Navy doctors

By Matthew M. Burke
Published: October 8, 2014

When Navy Lt. Cmdr. Joy Dierks arrived at work last month, she found 31 sick Marines waiting for her.

Continue reading "Sick Marines a medical whodunnit for Navy doctors" »

September 26, 2014

PHIBLEX: Marines, Navy participating in Philippine amphibious exercise

By Seth Robson | Stars and Stripes
Published: September 26, 2014

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — Okinawa-based Marines and sailors are taking part in an exercise that is designed to boost the Philippine military’s amphibious capabilities.

Continue reading "PHIBLEX: Marines, Navy participating in Philippine amphibious exercise" »

September 19, 2014

Corpsmen conduct MASCAS exercise on Tinian

Courtesy story by Lance Cpl. Luis Ramirez
Date Taken:09.10.2014Date Posted:09.16.2014 05:02

TINIAN, North Marianas Islands – Corpsmen with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 participating in Valiant Shield 2014 conducted a mass casualty (MASCAS) drill here Sept. 10 in anticipation of the commencement of the exercise.

Continue reading "Corpsmen conduct MASCAS exercise on Tinian" »

September 18, 2014

Marine sergeant and friends bag record-setting alligator

Story by Joshua Stewart
Sep. 18, 2014 - 02:30 PM

The next time Sgt. Jesse Phillips has to train in the swamp, he’ll be all too familiar with the type of beasts that might be slithering around his boots.

Continue reading "Marine sergeant and friends bag record-setting alligator" »

Forecasters prepare for Valiant Shield 2014

Story by LCpl Tyler Ngiraswei
Date Posted:09.18.2014 02:57

TINIAN, North Marianas Islands – It is argued that the weather cost the French the Battle of Agincourt as their horses struggled across the swampy land in pursuit of Henry V’s significantly smaller British Army.

Continue reading "Forecasters prepare for Valiant Shield 2014" »

September 11, 2014

Marines share history aboard USS Peleliu before and after 9/11/2001

Story by SSgt Joseph Digirolamo
Date Posted:09.11.2014 01:27

USS Peleliu (LHA-5) – It was the first day of liberty port in Darwin, Australia and Staff Sgt. James Roberts was enjoying a cold beverage at a local pub with his buddies. Suddenly, several shore-patrol Marines burst in frantically yelling to the service members inside to “Get out, get out… get back on ship… report to the ship!”

Continue reading "Marines share history aboard USS Peleliu before and after 9/11/2001" »

Heavy equipment operators get dirty to clear runway

Story by Cpl David Walters
Date Taken:08.31.2014Date Posted:09.11.2014 04:05

TINIAN, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands – Heavy equipment operators with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Combat Logistics Company 36 and 9th Engineer Support Battalion, clear a runway at West Field, Tinian, Aug. 31 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014.

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July 22, 2014

MEUEX Vertical Assault MOUT

by LCpl Alexander Pool
Date Taken:07.18.2014 | Date Posted:07.22.2014 7:21AM

US Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (BLT 3/5), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) conduct a vertical assault on a Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) facility in Okinawa, Japan as part of MEU Exercise (MEUEX). The MEUEX is to prepare the unit for an upcoming amphibious deployment and practice it’s mission essential tasks while improving overall operational readiness. (Marine Corps Motion Imagery Provided by Lance Cpl. Alexander N. Pool 31st MEU Combat Camera/ Released)

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July 11, 2014

Paw Patrol: Military working dogs execute explosive detection training

By Lance Cpl. Drew Tech | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | July 11, 2014

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan -- Military working dogs and their Marine handlers executed improvised explosive device detection training July 2 in the Central Training Area.

Continue reading "Paw Patrol: Military working dogs execute explosive detection training" »

June 30, 2014

ROK, US Marines sync artillery techniques during KMEP 14-7

Story by LCpl Thor Larson
Date Taken:06.15.2014 | Date Posted:06.30.2014 03:58

WARRIOR BASE, MUNSAN, Republic of Korea – The hot sun beats down on Marines as they stand ready beside their weapon, anxiously waiting for a fire mission that will create a dust cloud which can block out the sun.

Continue reading "ROK, US Marines sync artillery techniques during KMEP 14-7" »

June 23, 2014

Okinawa Marines practice the art of fast-roping

Stars and Stripes
Published: June 23, 2014

NORTHERN OKINAWA, Japan — Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion practiced their fast-roping skills during a training exercise in northern Okinawa last week.

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June 18, 2014

Vet re-adjusts after two tours as a Marine in Afghanistan

Carol Comegno, Courier-Post 10:36 p.m. EDT June 18, 2014

Dominic Evola worked a wad of dough, pressing it against a wooden counter with his hands, lifting and twirling it into a circle before plopping it onto a pizza pan.

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June 10, 2014

MAG-16 Hosts Junior Jarhead Day

by Cpl Owen Kimbrel
Date Taken:06.7.2014 | Date Posted:06.10.2014 2:26PM

Marines and their families participated in a Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 16 Junior Jarhead Day aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., June 7. The event presented demonstrations from Aircraft Firefighting and Rescue along with multiple aircraft from various squadrons.

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June 2, 2014

RIMPAC to include experiment on small-unit operations

By Gina Harkins
Jun. 2, 2014 - 06:00AM

When the Marine Corps unveiled its new 10-year road map — Expeditionary Force 21 — in April, one of its fundamental principles was that small teams of Marines must be ready to deploy to, and sustain themselves in, isolated, austere and hostile environments.

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May 21, 2014

Marines get one shot at elite sniper status

Story by Sgt Adam Miller
Date Taken:05.16.2014 | Date Posted:05.21.2014 02:44

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan – Marines concluded a two-week Special Reaction Team certification course May16 in the Central Training Area.

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May 10, 2014

Protecting troops at war's end

Base security beefed up at Marine headquarters after 2012 attack, drawdown

By Gretel C. Kovach
11:57 a.m.May 10, 2014

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — At night, the perimeter of the massive headquarters base for international forces in Helmand Province is ablaze with floodlights that could blind approaching enemy fighters.

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May 5, 2014

Marines withdraw from Sangin

Afghans secure northern Helmand as NATO combat mission wanes

4:19 a.m. May 5, 2014

SANGIN, Afghanistan — The last U.S. Marines withdrew from northern Helmand early Monday morning, turning their two bases in the hard-fought Sangin district over to Afghan national security forces.

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April 28, 2014

From spandex to Dress Blues

By Cpl. Henry Antenor | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | April 28, 2014

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- Strip 1st Lt. Scott T. Wilson of rank, uniform, and the title of Marine. See him as a lean, tall gentleman in his thirties. Now imagine him being lit on fire, jumping out of a window 42 feet above water, hitting it and surviving. Is that something a Marine officer does on his weekends?

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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.

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April 21, 2014

9th ESB offloads, prepares for KMEP 14-6

By Lance Cpl. Cedric R. Haller II | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | April 21, 2014

POHANG, GYEONGSANGBUGDO, Republic of Korea -- U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion offloaded vehicles and supplies in preparation for the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-6 April 16 in Pohang, Republic of Korea.

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April 16, 2014

USS Bonhomme Richard heading to capsized South Korea ferry

By Ashley Rowland
Stars and Stripes
Published: April 16, 2014

SEOUL — A U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship headed to the site where a South Korean ferry sank Wednesday to help if needed, the U.S. Navy said.

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April 14, 2014

High Tides, High Spirits for Holy Week

By Cpl. Henry Antenor | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | April 14, 2014

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea -- Marines and sailors gather around a dining table with plates of fresh food. They clack their glasses full of grape juice together and laugh out loud. Spirits fly high during the Passover Seder meal, part of a week-long religious celebration of multiple faiths.

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April 11, 2014

Anja Niedringhaus felt the need to bear witness

By Anja Niedringhaus, Associated Press
Friday, April 11, 2014 6:03pm

Editor's note: Anja Niedringhaus, 48, an internationally acclaimed German photojournalist, was shot and killed by an Afghan police officer earlier this month while on assignment for the Associated Press. In 2005, she was part of the AP team that won the Pulitzer Prize for coverage of Iraq, and she was awarded the Courage in Journalism Award from the International Women's Media Foundation. One of her bosses said "she truly believed in the need to bear witness." In years of reporting from war zones, the story that most haunted her was one about a Marine who was grievously wounded by a IED in Afghanistan in June 2011. This is what she wrote about it two days before Christmas 2011 — six months after the attack.

Inside the medevac helicopter in Afghanistan, U.S. Marine Cpl. Burness Britt bleeds profusely from his neck. He and two other Marines have just been hit by shrapnel, with Britt's injuries the most serious. The medevac crew chief clutches one of Britt's blood-covered hands as he is given oxygen. I take hold of the other.

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April 7, 2014

Video: Exercise Ssang Yong 14

Courtesy Video HQMC Combat Camera
Date Posted: 04.7.2014 6:26PM

Ssang Yong 14 is the culmination of a multitude of training events and exercises between the U.S. and ROK forces, which take place across the Asia-Pacific region throughout the year. This year's evolution was the largest in its storied history and was comprised of three Expeditionary Units: two US and one ROK. The exercise was led by the 3rd MEB based in Okinawa Japan and showcased both interoperability and sea based operations in the Korean Peninsula. (U.S. Marine Corps motion media/Released) Available in high definition.

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April 2, 2014

Airmen participate in Marine exercise

Story by A1C Zade Vadnais
Date Posted:04.02.2014 22:23

OKINAWA, Japan - Airmen from Kadena's 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels management flight traveled to Marine Corps Camp Hansen to participate in a field exercise with Marines from the 9th Engineer Support Battalion March 24 through 27.

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March 28, 2014

‘Twin Dragons’ massive joint military exercise begins

By Staff Sgt. Joseph Digirolamo | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 28, 2014

CAMP MUJUK, Republic of Korea -- A multilateral combined arms and amphibious exercise known as Ssang Yong 2014 officially started at Pohang, Republic of Korea March 27.

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Photo Essay: Firing while rocking on the USS Denver

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | March 28, 2014

USS Denver, At Sea -- Marines and Sailors of Company F. and Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, challenged their marksmanship skills by firing multiple weapons from the flight deck here, March 19.

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March 26, 2014

Military working dog handlers build skills with EOD

By Pfc. Abbey Perria | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 26, 2014

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan --
Military working dog handlers with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion received improvised explosive device detection training March 24 at Camp Hansen.

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March 13, 2014

CLR-35 corpsmen hone emergency medical skills

By Lance Cpl. Matt Myers | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 13, 2014

GWANGYANG, South Korea -- The pained cries of simulated victims echo throughout the camp as corpsmen race to find and triage victims during a mass casualty evacuation drill during Freedom Banner 14 in Gwangyang, Republic of Korea March 6.

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March 12, 2014

III MHG sets up MEFEX 14

Story by Cpl Matthew Manning
Date Posted:03.12.2014 23:10

POHANG, South Korea - With a foot of snow on the ground, freezing temperatures and less than a month before the start of Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 2014, 30 Marines arrive at Camp Mujuk Feb. 12 with the task of setting up living quarters for more than 1,200 Marines and a combined operations center to be used by the Republic of Korea Marine Corps and the III MEF Command Element.

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Marines board USNS Sacagawea for ROK exercises

By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 12, 2014

CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan -- Marines with various units assigned to III Marine Expeditionary Force boarded the USNS Sacagawea Feb. 17 at Tengan Pier, near Camp Courtney.

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Images: 3rd Marine Logistics Group meets the challenge

Photos by LCpl Donald Peterson
Date Taken:02.28.2014 | Date Posted:03.12.2014 04:44

Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4 compete in a fire team push-up competition Feb. 28 at the parade field on Camp Foster during a battalion field meet. Other activities consisted of several different competitions including a pull-up contest, fire team push-up contest, truck pull, tug of war and sumo wrestling matches. CLB-4 is part of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

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March 11, 2014

Large US contingent to take part in South Korean exercise

By Ashley Rowland
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 11, 2014

SEOUL — Almost 10,000 U.S. troops will join the South Korean military later this month in the peninsula’s largest joint amphibious landing drill, South Korean media reported Tuesday.

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7th Communications Battalion wires up MEFEX 14

By Cpl. Matthew Manning | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 11, 2014

POHANG, Republic of Korea -- In an age where technology enables rapid decision making, and information can be moved in seconds, the ability to communicate is an invaluable asset for all and can make or break a military operation.

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March 3, 2014

Marines rapidly respond to injured Okinawa resident

Story by Lance Cpl. Stephen Himes | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 02.18.2014
Date Posted: 03.03.2014 20:24

OKINAWA, Japan – On the night of Feb. 18, three Marines reacted quickly and selflessly to provide aid to an injured man.

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February 20, 2014

Gear in, gear out: Marines on retrograde mission pack it up and ship it out

By Jennifer Hlad
Stars and Stripes
Published: February 20, 2014

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Forklifts, weapons, radios, tactical vehicles. Containers, trailers, air conditioners, generators. If the Marines brought it to Afghanistan, they need to get it out of Afghanistan, and it’s R4OG’s job to get it done.

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February 6, 2014

Corpsmen perfect lifesaving steps

By Pfc. Donald T. Peterson | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | February 06, 2014

CAMP FOSTER -- Twenty-six corpsmen with various units within the III Marine Expeditionary Force participated in a forward resuscitative care course Jan. 27-30 at the Simulated Trauma Advanced Training Center on Camp Foster.

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3rd Maintenance Battalion completes exercise at Kin Blue

By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | February 06, 2014

KIN BLUE, Okinawa -- Members of 3rd Maintenance Battalion participated in Maintenance Exercise 14-1 Jan. 27 to Feb. 1 at the Kin Blue Training Area near Camp Hansen.

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February 5, 2014

Marines board USS Denver at Okinawa, head for Cobra Gold

By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: February 5, 2014

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa — The USS Denver made a brief stop at Okinawa on Wednesday to pick up members of the 3rd Marine Division and their gear before proceeding to Thailand in support of Exercise Cobra Gold 2014.

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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.

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January 9, 2014

Recon Marines depart for Sandfisher 2014

Story by Cpl Brandon Suhr
Date Posted:01.09.2014 23:05

FUTENMA, Japan - Marines and sailors with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion departed Jan. 7 to Hawaii for Exercise Sandfisher 2014 to expand their capabilities, training and combat readiness.

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January 8, 2014

SAT, ACT testing for success

Story by Cpl Brian Stevens
Date Posted:01.08.2014 18:07

IWAKUNI, Japan - Marines interested in attending college or becoming a commissioned officer can look into taking a placement test.

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December 28, 2013

Marines in Persian Gulf stand ready for crisis

By Gretel C. Kovach
2:50 p.m .Dec. 28, 2013

Aboard the USS Boxer — An MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor swooped over the Persian Gulf and dropped the commandant of the Marine Corps onto what military commanders like to refer to as four floating acres of diplomacy.

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December 21, 2013

Q&A;: Year ahead for Miramar aviation

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing officer talks recent exercise, future

By Jeanette Steele
noon Dec. 21, 2013

As the U.S. military turns its attention to China and the Pacific, Marine Corps aviators are gearing up for their role.

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December 20, 2013

America's Battalion,' 'Kings of Battle' return from unit deployment program

Story by LCpl Matthew Bragg
Date Posted:12.20.2013 20:23

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Marines and sailors from two units recently returned to Marine Corps Base Hawaii just in time for the holidays.

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November 29, 2013

Last US troops pull out of typhoon disaster zone in Philippines

By Ashley Rowland
Stars and Stripes
Published: November 29, 2013

MANILA, Philippines — The last U.S. troops pulled out of storm-ravaged Tacloban on Wednesday, marking the end of the American military presence in areas demolished by Typhoon Haiyan.

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November 27, 2013

Grateful Filipino troops serve up local cuisine for US Marines

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

GUIUAN, Philippines — Meals, Ready to Eat get boring pretty fast, so when a group of U.S. Marines got a chance to try out local cuisine while helping typhoon survivors in the Philippines, they chowed down.

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'Watchdogs' return home

By Lance Cpl. Kasey Peacock | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center | November 27, 2013

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- Approximately 55 Marines with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 returned home to the Combat Center Nov. 22, 2013 after a nearly seven-month deployment to Afghanistan.

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November 21, 2013

Single mom, NCO inspires others

Story LCpl Natalie Rostran
Date Posted:11.21.2013 00:53

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa - The Commandant of the Marine Corps General James F. Amos’ recent letter to sergeants and corporals, “The Reawakening,” describes the noncommissioned officers as the backbone of the Marine Corps.

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November 19, 2013

31st MEU assesses remote sites with Osprey, delivers help

Story by Capt. Caleb Eames | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 11.18.2013
Date Posted:11.19.2013 02:45

LEYTE, Philippines - A bilateral assessment team traveled to remote areas in and near Leyte using an MV-22B tiltrotor Osprey aircraft to assess the needs of people isolated by Typhoon Haiyan Nov. 18, as part of Operation Damayan.

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November 18, 2013

Photo Gallery: Embedded with U.S. Marines in the Philippines

By Mike Morones
Staff photographer
Nov. 18, 2013 - 06:00AM

The KC-130, piloted by a crew from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, pulled to a stop on the runway at Guiuan well after sunset.

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Three-star general oversees typhoon relief

Joint task force activated for disaster response in Philippines

By Gretel C. Kovach
6:42 p.m.Nov. 18, 2013

The U.S. military bumped up its typhoon relief effort in the Philippines Monday by activating a task force led by a three-star general.

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Amphibs to Replace Carrier in Typhoon Relief

Nov 18, 2013
Stars and Stripes| by Ashley Rowland

SEOUL -- The USS George Washington will likely leave the Philippines in about three days, after the arrival of two amphibious ships that are better equipped to deal with a disaster such as Typhoon Haiyan, Navy officials said Monday.

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November 14, 2013

Fallen Marines sought dangerous job

Bomb disposal techs were from close-knit community stunned by stateside loss

By Gretel C. Kovach
6:48 p.m.Nov. 14, 2013
Updated8:53 p.m.

The four Marines killed Wednesday while clearing unexploded ordnance from a training range at Camp Pendleton had volunteered for one of the most dangerous jobs in the military. Every bomb disposal technician does.

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Press Release #13-043 Identification of Four Marines killed in accident aboard Camp Pendleton

November 14, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif --

Four Explosive Ordnance Disposal Marines were killed in an explosion at approximately 11 a.m. Wednesday during range maintenance operations to dispose of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Zulu impact area aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

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November 13, 2013

Four additional Ospreys deploy to Philippines

By Courtesy Story | III MEF | November 13, 2013

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan -- Four additional MV-22B Ospreys departed Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Nov. 13 to support Operation Damayan, a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operation in the Republic of the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda.

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November 12, 2013

Two more ships en route to Philippines

Nov. 12, 2013 - 06:46PM
By Tony Lombardo

More sailors and Marines are on the way to lead relief efforts in the Philippines.

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November 10, 2013

3rd MEB to provide humanitarian assistance to Philippines

Story by SSgt Kenneth Lewis
Date Posted:11.10.2013 08:54

OKINAWA, Japan - At the request of the Government of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has directed U.S. Pacific Command to support U.S. Government humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations (HADR) operations in the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan.

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November 7, 2013

Marines establish self-staining water purification system

Story Cpl Joseph Karwick
Date Posted:11.07.2013 07:54

IWAKUNI, Japan - Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 assembled and operated a tactical water purification system at a beach area on Tinian Nov. 6, 2013, to provide clean water for Marines participating in exercise Forager Fury II.

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Marines prepare for Forager Fury II

Story by LCpl Antonio Rubio
Date Posted:11.07.2013 05:38

BAKER ISLAND - Approximately 100 Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, arrived Nov. 6, 2013, at Tinian’s West Field as part of exercise Forager Fury II.

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November 1, 2013

Combat pistol program reaches Okinawa

Story by LCpl Henry Antenor
Date Posted:11.01.2013 01:32

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific executed newly instituted combat pistol program qualifications with the M9A1 9 mm pistol Oct. 29 at Range 15 on Camp Hansen.

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October 31, 2013

Military working dogs, handlers build relationship

By Lance Cpl. Donald T. Peterson | Okinawa Marine | October 31, 2013

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan --
"I’m letting my dog go!” warned the dog handler to the fleeing suspect.

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October 5, 2013

EOD conducts professional exchange with Singapore Navy

by Sgt Jennifer Pirante
10.05.2013

CHANGI NAVA BASE, Singapore - U.S. Marine explosive ordnance disposal technicians with Combat Logistics Battalion 13, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, welcomed Cmdr. K.H. Chew, Singapore Navy EOD officer in charge, and 15 Singapore Navy EOD technicians and divers aboard the USS Boxer at Changi Naval Base, Singapore, Oct. 4.

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October 4, 2013

'Lava Dogs' instill squad-level tactics in new Marines

by LCpl Matthew Bragg
10.04.2013 | Date Posted:10.05.2013 01:29

KAHUKU TRAINING AREA, Hawaii — Marines and sailors with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment completed a weeklong exercise at Kahuku Training Area Oct. 4, 2013. The exercise focused on familiarizing new Marines with current training methods used within the company while helping seasoned Marines sustain knowledge they were already taught.

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Lima Company returns from Australia

By Cpl. Matthew A. Callahan | Marine Corps Base Hawaii | October 04, 2013

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII -- Marines and sailors with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, returned from their deployment in Darwin, Australia, arriving at the 3rd Bn., 3rd Marines headquarters building Sept. 26, 2013.

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October 1, 2013

US warship in Goa for strategies & fun

By : TNN
Tuesday, October 01, 2013

Close to 800 personnel from the US armed forces are looking forward to a week of sun, surf and sand with a touch of Goan hospitality, as the USS Harpers Ferry has dropped anchor at the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT).

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September 25, 2013

31st MEU returns from Fall Patrol

lBy Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 25, 2013

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan -- With the return of the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and the offload of more than 1,000 Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, the MEU’s regularly scheduled Fall Patrol ended here, Sept. 25.

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September 21, 2013

USS Denver arrives in White Beach, offloads 31st MEU

Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl | Amphibious Squadron 11 | Date: 09.21.2013

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan – Amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 21 to conduct an offload of the 31st MEU.

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September 20, 2013

'War Chiefs' conduct air assault course

By Compiled by Cpl. Sarah Dietz | Marine Corps Base Hawaii | September 20, 2013

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIF. --
Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, hit the ground running after debarking CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters during a company-sized air assault course in the Quackenbush training area Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif., as part of the Integrated Training Exercise, Sept. 11, 2013.

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Vietnam vets get stars, 46 years later

Heroics overlooked because officers were killed in battle

By Gretel C. Kovach
11:39 a.m.Sept. 20, 2013
Updated 7:22 p.m

A company of Marines fought up a hill near Khe Sanh, Vietnam, on April 30, 1967. Within two days, three-quarters of them left the bomb-cratered slopes of 881 South bloodied or dead.

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September 17, 2013

31st MEU tests LRAD for use on MV-22 Osprey

By Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 17, 2013

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea -- Carefully formed messages surged out of the portable communication device as the MV-22 Osprey circled the ship. Over the thunderous sounds of the rotor blades and the considerable distance, the men and women on the deck received the message loud and clear.

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September 15, 2013

CLB Marines, Super Stallions team up for heavy lifts

Story by Cpl Codey Underwood | Date Taken: 09.14.2013 | Date Posted:09.15.2013 13:45

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea – Hovering above five landing support Marines, a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter slowly descends, dangling a charged hook underneath the hulking aircraft closer to the load sitting on the deck. As one Marine reaches up with a static wand to ground the 200,000 volts rushing through the hook, the other four scramble to secure the load.

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September 14, 2013

Marines and sailors do more with less in Timor-Leste

Story by Sgt Jonathan Wright
09.14.2013

DILI, Timor-Leste - They arrived with very little in hand, but their impact was great. Smiles and exclamations were abundant as the young children threw themselves at the service members in an explosion of cheers and hugs.

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Marines build leadership at sea

By Sgt. Jonathan Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 14, 2013

USS DENVER, At Sea -- Standing tall as the deck underneath him gently sways, he focuses on the commands being called to his left. The morning sun tries to foul his movements by rendering him blind, but he doesn’t need to see. His right hand flies across his hips and confidently clamps down on the pommel of a sword at the bark of “draw….”

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September 12, 2013

Marines overcome challenges, improve close combat techniques on ship

By Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 12, 2013

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea -- In the belly of an amphibious warship, squeezed between two aircraft, troops gather around a fight. Two Marines are going head-to-head, taking cues from instructors standing nearby as they struggle for dominance. Confined and challenging environments cannot stop the Marines from training.

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September 4, 2013

Expeditionary medicine for the Australian outback

By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 04, 2013

BRADSHAW FIELD TRAINING AREA, Northern Territory, Australia -- Expeditionary operations sometimes require a military force to be hundreds of miles from the nearest hospital or emergency services. That’s why the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit brings their own

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August 17, 2013

Mongolian troops, police begin non-lethal weapons exercise with US Marines

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

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

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August 16, 2013

HMLA-367 provides precise fire for TRAP

Story by Cpl William Jackson
08.16.2013

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

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August 13, 2013

Generals honor MWSS-373 Marines for supporting homeless vets

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

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

Continue reading "Generals honor MWSS-373 Marines for supporting homeless vets" »

August 7, 2013

Hawaii to become huge drone base for Marine Corps

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

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

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July 30, 2013

MRF-D Marines break barriers in Aussie fitness test

Story by Sgt. Sarah Fiocco | Marine Rotational Force Darwin | Date: 07.30.2013

ROBERTSON BARRACKS, Northern Territory, Australia – Marines with Marine Rotational Force – Darwin competed for two spots in an Australian Combat Fitness Leadership Course during a barrier test at the Northern Gym, here, July 30.

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July 29, 2013

Civilians flying at Miramar Air Show

Marines announce aerial lineup, after military flights grounded

By Gretel C. Kovach
2:44 p.m.July 29, 2013

Active duty military patriots are grounded for the 2013 Miramar Air Show. Instead, civilian ones will headline the annual air fest this fall, the Marine Corps said Monday, releasing its confirmed lineup of performances.

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July 12, 2013

'Flying Nightmares' end service with pride

July 12, 2013 10:48 PM
By Chris McDaniel

After nearly seven decades of service, Marine Attack Squadron 513 (VMA-513) was officially deactivated during a ceremony Friday morning at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma.


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July 4, 2013

USS Germantown Arrives in Darwin, Australia

Story Number: NNS130704-03 Release Date: 7/4/2013 9:58:00
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl

DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- Dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Darwin, Australia, July 4, prior to scheduled operations in the region.

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June 29, 2013

Marines keep skills, equipment fresh while at sea

By Sgt. Jonathan Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | June 29, 2013

USS GERMANTOWN, At Sea -- It’s not unusual for Marines and Sailors assigned to Marine Expeditionary Units to find themselves embarked on naval vessels for a significant amount of time during scheduled patrols. But their time on these ships is not a cruise to their destination - the Marines are on a floating, functional base of operations

Continue reading "Marines keep skills, equipment fresh while at sea" »

June 17, 2013

Marines train in Malaysia during CARAT 2013

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 06.17.2013

TANJUNG GELANG NAVAL BASE, Malaysia - U.S. Marines with Landing Force Company participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2013 (CARAT 2013) began land-based training and amphibious assault operations with Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) June 15.

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June 3, 2013

31st MEU’s “Boat” Company shows Japanese soldiers their craft

Story by Sgt. Jonathan Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 06.03.201

OKINAWA, Japan - A platoon-sized element of Japanese soldiers spent two days learning from the Marines and Sailors of Company F., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, as they conducted small-boat training operations here, June 2 and 3.

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June 1, 2013

Marine Aviation Training Support Group 21—The Crossroads of Marine Aviation

Author: Roxanne Baker
06/01/2013

Tourists may know the Emerald Coast as a vacation destination with sugary white sands and tur­quoise waters. But the Marines based at Marine Aviation Training Support Group (MATSG) 21 in Pensacola, Fla., aren’t looking toward the beach. They have their sights locked in on the sky.

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May 28, 2013

Marine, Afghan Police Officer Reunite

May 28, 2013
Marine Corps News| by Sgt. Ned Johnson

COMBAT OUTPOST NOW ZAD, Afghanistan -- A Marine climbs to the top of an Afghan National Police tower to provide security, more than three years since the last time he was in Afghanistan.

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May 24, 2013

9th Engineer Support Battalion prepares for deployment to Afghanistan

By Lance Cpl. Brandon C. Suhr | Marine Corps Installations Pacific | May 24, 2013

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan -- Many Marines have served valiantly during combat operations in Afghanistan. The lessons learned are continuously passed from one generation of Marines to the next, laying the foundation for less experienced Marines to deploy to Afghanistan, complete the mission, and return home safely.
Marines with Company F, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, completed a field training exercise May 15-17 on Camps Hansen and Schwab, and the Central Training Area in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Continue reading "9th Engineer Support Battalion prepares for deployment to Afghanistan" »

May 8, 2013

Retrograding Home: Redeployment a focus of effort as Afghanistan exit draws closer

Courtesy Story | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 05.08.2013

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan - In 2009, Camp Dwyer was a sprawling base which housed thousands of service members ready to fight. Most of them were the result of a 30,000 troop surge in Afghanistan introduced by President Barack Obama.

Continue reading "Retrograding Home: Redeployment a focus of effort as Afghanistan exit draws closer" »

May 2, 2013

PMO Marines endure SRT indoctrination

Story by Cpl Joseph Karwick
Date Taken:05.02.2013 | Date Posted:05.08.2013 19:41

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan - Station military police with the Provost Marshall’s Office put themselves through a day of rigorous training May 2, 2013, in hopes of becoming part of the station's Special Reaction Team. An SRT is a specialized team or element within a military law enforcement unit.

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April 22, 2013

The Marines are back

Story by Sgt. Sarah Fiocco | Marine Rotational Force Darwin | Date: 04.21.2013
Date Posted:04.22.2013 02:39

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE BASE DARWIN, Australia - Approximately 200 Marines with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, arrived aboard RAAF Base Darwin from Marine Corps Base Hawaii, as part of the second iteration of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, April 21.

April 2, 2013

TWO MARINES HONORED FOR ROLE IN AFGHAN FIGHT

By Gretel C. Kovach12:01 a.m.April 2, 2013
Updated7:37 p.m.April 1, 2013

CAMP PENDLETON — Two Marines from a Camp Pendleton helicopter squadron who battled insurgents during the attack on Camp Bastion in Afghanistan last fall were honored with 2012 Marine Corps Aviation Awards.

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March 26, 2013

Hawaii 1st Sgt. receives Bronze Star

By Hope Hodge - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Mar 26, 2013 13:56:42 EDT

A Hawaii-based Marine has received the Bronze Star with combat “V” device for his accomplishments and leadership during a 2010 deployment to Afghanistan.

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March 21, 2013

31st MEU returns from annual Spring Patrol

By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | March 21, 2013

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan -- More than 2,000 Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit offloaded from three ships of the Navy’s Amphibious Squadron 11 here, March 21. The unit returned after spending nearly two months conducting its annual Spring Patrol.

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March 11, 2013

Marines save life in Pohang

Story by 1st Lt. Jean-Scott Dodd | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 03.11.2013

POHANG, South Korea - Four Marines rescued a Korean from a burning building after a fire broke out March 8 in Pohang, Republic of Korea.

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March 9, 2013

Feeding an “army”, 42,000 servings at a time

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

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea -- Standing over warm trays of food with a serving spoon in hand and a paper hat on his head, an infantry Marine serves his brothers and sisters their afternoon meal.

Continue reading "Feeding an “army”, 42,000 servings at a time" »

February 21, 2013

Cobra Gold 2013 concludes with combined arms live-fire exercise

Story by Sgt. Catherine Sinclair | 122nd Public Affairs Operations Center | Date: 02.21.2013

SUKHOTHAI PROVINCE, Kingdom of Thailand – Royal Thai and U.S. Marines and soldiers conducted a combined arms live-fire exercise Feb. 21 in Ban Dan Lan Hoi, Sukhothai province, Kingdom of Thailand, marking the conclusion of exercise Cobra Gold 2013.

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February 20, 2013

31st MEU learns jungle tricks from Thais

Story by Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 02.20.2013

HAT YAO, Thailand - Surrounded by thick jungle as far as the eye can see, a Marine separated from his unit must come to the realization that survival requires effort. Finding food, water and shelter is the difference between life and death. From the leaves on the trees to the bugs crawling across the ground, anything around you can either harm you or help you.

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February 19, 2013

More than 200 Marines, sailors return home after yearlong deployment in Afghanistan

Vanessa Van Hyfte
Posted: 02/19/2013

SAN DIEGO - It was an emotional day on Monday for 240 Marines and sailors who returned home from Afghanistan after a yearlong deployment.

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February 9, 2013

Marine’s journey puts smiles on faces of Thai children

By Lance Cpl. Jose Lujano
U.S. Marine Forces, Pacific
February 09, 2013

PHITSANULOK, Thailand --

Marines are men and women of diverse cultures and ethnicities who volunteer to serve in the armed forces for many different reasons. What varies even more are the life experiences each Marine brings with them to the Corps.

For Lance Cpl. Cuong V. Cao, a combat engineer with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, the journey to the Ban Kuad Nam Man School in the Chat Trakarn district, Phitsanulok province, Kingdom of Thailand, is like a journey back in time, reminding him of his youth.

Continue reading "Marine’s journey puts smiles on faces of Thai children" »

January 30, 2013

Marines, NFL work mutual support at Pro Bowl

By Sgt. D.R. Cotton
U.S. Marine Forces, Pacific
January 30, 2013

AIEA, Hawaii -- A long line of men in uniform lunge from one end of a field to another, twisting their torsos with a “dynamic warm-up” in anticipation of physical exertion. Although this could be a scene from any Marine’s physical training session, these warriors were not preparing to take the field of battle, but the field of play at the 2013 NFL Pro Bowl.

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31st MEU embarks for 32nd iteration of exercise Cobra Gold 2013

By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | January 30, 2013

White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan -- Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on three ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 to begin their annual Spring Patrol and journey to the Kingdom of Thailand for exercise Cobra Gold 2013, Jan 30.

Continue reading "31st MEU embarks for 32nd iteration of exercise Cobra Gold 2013" »

January 20, 2013

31st MEU Marines and Sailors bowl with Japanese orphans

By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
January 20, 2013

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- As the bowling ball slammed into the pins, the Japanese kids, surrounded by United States Marines, screeched with excitement while exchanging high fives and laughter.

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January 18, 2013

Recon Marines dive Hawaiian depths, return to amphibious roots

Story by Cpl. James Sauter | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 01.18.2013

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII — The water of Kaneohe Bay remained calm as the sun broke through thick, grey clouds. The wind whistled gently and light sparkled off of the ocean’s surface while boaters cruised around the bay, enjoying the sunny, serene day.

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‘Kings of Battle’ Marines teach, learn, new firing system

Story by Lance Cpl. Jacob Barber | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 01.16.2013
Date posted: 01.18.2013

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii - Marines with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, employed the new Expeditionary Fire Support System M327 120-mm mortar weapon system at Landing Zone 216, Wednesday.

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January 17, 2013

Marines master bridge building

By Lance Cpl. Donald T. Peterson
Marine Corps Installations Pacific
January 17, 2013

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, Okinawa, Japan -- As Marines traverse through the dense jungle, they stumble upon a 70-foot-wide trench approximately 50-feet-deep. Without hesitation, the Marines pull out a 100-foot rope and lower a Marine down to cross the trench and start building a one-rope bridge.

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Marine becomes guardian angel

Story by Lance Cpl. Raquel Barraza | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 01.16.2013
Date posted: 01.17.2013

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – On a winding narrow back road, a woman cries for help and through the rain she sees a glimpse of hope.

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January 9, 2013

MCAS Yuma to have full squadron of F-35B fighters by end of year

January 09, 2013 5:43 PM
BY JAMES GILBERT

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 has already received three of its F-35B Lightning IIs and will continue to get more planes, as well as newly-trained pilots and aircraft maintainers in the coming months. In fact, it's expected to have a full squadron of aircraft by the end of 2013.

Continue reading "MCAS Yuma to have full squadron of F-35B fighters by end of year" »

January 2, 2013

Marine Corps continues disaster efforts in Philippines

By III MEF/MCIPAC CPAO
Jan 02 2013

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines (December 12, 2012) – Personnel and aircraft with III Marine Expeditionary Force began providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support Dec. 8 at the request of the government of the Republic of the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Pablo (international name Bopha), which made landfall Dec. 4.

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December 28, 2012

"The Professionals" depart 31st MEU

By 1stLt David Baugh
DVIDS | Dec 28 2012

KADENA AIR FORCE BASE, Japan (December 2, 2012) – Between executing numerous beach assaults and lending a hand to a host of communities, the Marines and Sailors of 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment left their mark in the Asia-Pacific as the battalion landing team of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Continue reading ""The Professionals" depart 31st MEU" »

December 26, 2012

Obamas visited Marines in Hawaii on Christmas

By David Jackson - USA Today
Posted : Wednesday Dec 26, 2012 16:00:03 EST

After spending most of Christmas Day with their family, President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama observed what has become one of their holiday traditions: Visiting troops and their families at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

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December 25, 2012

Marines mark the holiday at war

Christmas at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
12:01 a.m., Dec. 25, 2012
Updated 8:29 p.m. , Dec. 24, 2012

Quite a few Marines serving in Afghanistan would rather forget it’s Christmas. Not Sgt. Joseph Soileau, an air wing planner who deployed from Miramar Marine Corps Air Station. When carolers passed by his office at Camp Leatherneck recently, Soileau walked outside to enjoy the serenade.

Continue reading "Marines mark the holiday at war" »

December 18, 2012

Tribute to New York Fire Department, ladder company patrols Afghan sky

By Sgt. John Jackson | Headquarters Marine Corps
December 18, 2012

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan -- In an effort to ensure Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 Marines remember why they are deployed, the squadron has adopted one of New York Fire Department’s most decorated ladder companies that was heavily involved during the rescue attempts at the World Trade Center, Sept. 11, 2001.

Continue reading "Tribute to New York Fire Department, ladder company patrols Afghan sky" »

December 13, 2012

Okinawa Marines helping with Philippines disaster relief

By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: December 13, 2012

SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan — Apparently a few Marines can move a mountain — of supplies, that is.

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December 11, 2012

Marine Sgt. David Gerardi gets Silver Star at ceremony

By Torsten Ove / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
December 11, 2012 12:09 am

A Marine who did what Marines are trained to do was presented with a medal for bravery Monday for his actions in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Marine Sgt. David Gerardi gets Silver Star at ceremony" »

December 8, 2012

Through the Scope: One sniper’s experiences, journey to the top

By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 08, 2012

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- Snipers have been the focus of envy and the personification of legends in the Marine Corps since men like Carlos Hathcock and Chuck Mawhinney looked down their scopes in the jungles of Vietnam. The recent exploits of Chris Kyle, the retired Navy SEAL who now has the most confirmed sniper kills in U.S. military history, modernized the mystique of the military sniper, but few have had what it takes to join the ranks.

Continue reading "Through the Scope: One sniper’s experiences, journey to the top" »

November 26, 2012

Despite spinal cord surgery, Marine continues to push forward on third combat deployment

Story by Cpl. Mark Garcia | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 11.26.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – The drive to become a Marine and gain acceptance into the tight-knit family is what drove Staff Sgt. Monica Paz to enlist during July 2000.

Continue reading "Despite spinal cord surgery, Marine continues to push forward on third combat deployment" »

November 15, 2012

1/12 Marine awarded Purple Heart Medal

By Kristen Wong | Headquarters Marine Corps | November 15, 2012

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Kaneohe Bay -- On an August evening in Afghanistan, Staff Sgt. Cody Rhode and his fellow Marines were nearing the end of their deployment and anticipating the return home. Until then, they went about their normal routines.

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October 26, 2012

Miramar fighter jets deployed in secret to Mideast

Unannounced Marine tour comes amid tensions over Iranian nuclear program

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
10:14 a.m., Oct. 26, 2012

Amid mounting concern over Iran’s nuclear program and violence elsewhere in the region, U.S. Central Command quietly dispatched a Marine fighter jet squadron from San Diego to an undisclosed country in the Middle East, U-T San Diego has learned.

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October 21, 2012

Equipment disposal a daunting job for military

By Bethany Crudele - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Oct 21, 2012 10:12:14 EDT

As the war in Afghanistan continues to wind down, millions of pounds of combat equipment are being received and disposed of each week, according to officials with the Defense Logistics Agency, Disposition Services.

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October 19, 2012

Into the mountains

Story by Lance Cpl. Ali Azimi | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms | Date: 10.19.2012

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - The War on Terror is not always fought in the urban setting where food, supplies and ammunition can be provided through normal logistical means. Fighting the enemy takes Marines into regions where common modes of transportation, such as armored vehicles or aircraft, cannot reach.

Continue reading "Into the mountains" »

October 12, 2012

Osprey in the spotlight at air show

Marines tout hybrid tilt-rotor as Corps builds fleet at Miramar

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
8:24 p.m., Oct. 12, 2012

The Osprey MV-22, a hybrid tilt-rotor that takes off like a helicopter and flies like a plane, has been featured in the Miramar Air Show for years. Until now, the revolutionary aircraft with a notorious early development history merely played a supporting role in the simulated combat assault by the Marine Air Ground Task Force.

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October 9, 2012

New Miramar commanders talk air show, ops, family life

Q and A with Maj. Gen. (select) Steven Busby and Col. J.P. Farnam

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
7:02 p.m., Oct. 9, 2012

More than 500,000 people are expected to flock to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar this weekend for the annual three-day air show that begins Friday. The event billed as the nation’s largest is a chance for the Defense Department to wow the tax-paying public with full-throttle demonstrations of costly newer aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor performing this year.

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US, Philippine Marines patrol, construct hide sites

Story by Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 10.09.2012

CROW VALLEY, Philippines – Completely surrounded in thick vegetation, snipers encase themselves within a wall of camouflage, utilizing their natural surroundings to keep from being compromised.

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October 5, 2012

At sea, 31st MEU and 15th MEU ready to help

October 5th, 2012 | Allies and training Blue-Green operations MEU operations The Pacific | Posted by Gidget Fuentes

Natural disasters like typhoons and heavy storms that lead to mudslides are no stranger to the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines, which sees almost annual devastation from Mother Nature from heavy rains and winds. When that happens, the Marine Corps and the Navy sometimes get the call to respond and help in what’s been a long-running relationship well predating the so-called “pivot” to the Pacific.

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September 27, 2012

Marine Recalls Camp Bastion Attack

By Marine Corps Sgt. James Mercure
Regional Command Southwest

AFGHANISTAN, Sept. 27, 2012 – “There was blood down my leg after I got shot,” recalled Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ethan Burk, who was present during the Sept. 14 insurgent night attack on Camp Bastion here in Helmand province.

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September 24, 2012

Australian Army, US Marines combine arms during urban operations

9/24/2012 By Cpl. Jacob D. Barber , 3rd Marine Regiment

MOUNT BUNDY TRAINING AREA, Northern Territory, Australia — Marines were positioned and camouflaged throughout a tree line. They waited patiently for their Australian partners to arrive before executing an assault at the urban operations training facility at Mount Bundy Training Area, Northern Territory, Australia, Sept. 5.

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September 22, 2012

Slain Marine commander’s actions in Afghanistan called heroic

By Ernesto Londoño, Published: September 22

Lt. Col. Christopher K. Raible was heading home to video-chat with his wife after dinner when the first blasts rang out. The pops in the distance on Sept. 14 at Camp Bastion in southern Afghanistan were harbingers of the most audacious Taliban attack on a major NATO base in the decade-long war.

Continue reading " Slain Marine commander’s actions in Afghanistan called heroic" »

September 14, 2012

2,200 Marines Begin Readiness Training on and Around Guam Starting Next TUESDAY.

Last Updated on Friday, 14 September 2012 14:28 Written by News Release Friday, 14 September 2012 14:24

Guam - Approximately 2,200 Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, are scheduled to conduct readiness training on Guam from September 18 to 25.

Continue reading " 2,200 Marines Begin Readiness Training on and Around Guam Starting Next TUESDAY." »

Annual ‘Recon Challenge’ underway

By Gidget Fuentes
Posted : Friday Sep 14, 2012 17:49:55 EDT

OCEANSIDE, Calif. – Thirteen two-man teams from around the Marine Corps will tackle the surf, hills and shooting ranges of Camp Pendleton, Calif., tomorrow morning in a daylong timed competition to crown the fastest, if not toughest, reconnaissance team.

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September 13, 2012

9th Engineer Support Battalion Marines receive Bronze Star

9/13/2012 By Lance Cpl. Daniel Valle , III MEF
CAMP HANSEN, Japan — Captains Aaron F. Fisher and Christopher M. Kaprielian were awarded Bronze Star medals during a ceremony at the 9th Engineer Support Battalion physical training field at Camp Hansen Sept. 5.

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September 7, 2012

3rd CEB Marine earns Bronze Star

9/7/2012 By Lance Cpl. D. J. Wu , Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. — Capt. Anthony Bariletti, ground combat element academic officer, Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group, received a Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device during a ceremony at the MCTOG compound Aug. 31, 2012.

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September 5, 2012

Marines receive Silver Stars for Afghan heroics

By Gina Harkins - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Sep 5, 2012 13:20:00 EDT

Two Marines have received the nation’s third-highest award for combat valor in recognition of their heroic actions during separate battles last year in Afghanistan.

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August 30, 2012

Married Couple Serves Deployment Together

By Marine Corps Cpl. Mark Garcia
Regional Command Southwest

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan, Aug. 30, 2012 – During a deployment, most Marines are separated from their families. But for one married Marine Corps couple, a deployment is providing the opportunity to connect in a way most would not be able to experience.

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August 29, 2012

Voting assistance officers here to help Marines

Story by Lance Cpl. Rebecca Eller | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 08.29.2012

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – Nov. 6 is a day most people have marked on their calendar; Election Day is approaching and many Marines may not be aware on how to cast their vote.

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August 23, 2012

Egress trainer provides insight from all angles

Story by Staff Sgt. Ken Melton | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 08.15.2012
Date Posted:08.23.2012 05:06

OKINAWA, Japan - Marines of 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion are the first on Okinawa to receive training on the mine-resistant ambush protected egress trainer, recently unveiled on the island.

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August 12, 2012

Long Island Marine Among Those Killed When Afghan Police Officer Opened Fire On U.S. Troops

August 12, 2012 11:04 PM

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) — A Long Island family that was waiting for their son to return home from Afghanistan must now plan a funeral.

Continue reading "Long Island Marine Among Those Killed When Afghan Police Officer Opened Fire On U.S. Troops" »

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.

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August 3, 2012

Recon Marines prepare for MEU exercise

8/3/2012 By Lance Cpl. Matthew Manning , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP GONSALVES, Okinawa, Japan — As the wind drives down the valley making trees sway, the Jungle Warfare Training Center’s next students prepare to descend. Each has been trained and equipped for the task. Each, in turn, will go over the edge and test their mettle against gravity, rappelling in the Okinawa jungle.

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July 30, 2012

31st MEU Marines train in fast-rope insertion

Story by Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 07.30.2012

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan – With a firm grip on a thick rope, the Marines leap from the back of an aircraft hovering 40 feet above the ground. Within seconds, they are setting up security in the drop zone. Within minutes, the entire force of Marines is on the ground.

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July 26, 2012

Marine born in Afghanistan gives back to home nation

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 07.26.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan —“I remember the day I heard that America was going into Afghanistan,” said Lance Cpl. Behzad Razzada, a member of the Embedded Partnering Team, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward). “My parents were happy because it was a chance for Afghanistan to unite and fight for freedom. They said it was the only way that injustice in Afghanistan would be finished.”

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July 21, 2012

Family needs help finding missing dog rescued by Marines in Afghanistan

Kujo missing Afghani dog

July 21, 2012
By: Jerrie Dean

On Friday, a family in Texas has increased the reward for Kujo, their missing dog that was a U.S. Marine squadrons companion while in Afghanistan, reports KWTX news.

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July 20, 2012

31st MEU practices decontamination skills

7/20/2012 By Lance Cpl. Matthew Manning , Marine Corps Bases Japan

KIN BLUE, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted a mass-casualty decontamination training exercise at Kin Blue Beach training area July 11.

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July 19, 2012

Marines in Afghanistan Perform ‘Call Me Maybe’

By Suzan Clarke
Jul 18, 2012 7:16pm

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then “Call Me Maybe,” the catchy song from Carly Rae Jepsen, must have many admirers.

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MAWTS-1 Combat Camera provides vital assets to squadron, station, Corps

Story by Lance Cpl. Sean Dennison | Marine Corps Air Station Yuma | Date: 07.19.2012

YUMA, Ariz. - Twice a year, for seven weeks at a time, the station floods with Marines and service members from across the country and around the world. This magical time of congestion is called the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1.

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July 17, 2012

Radio Operator vital to Personal Security Detachment

7/17/2012 By Cpl. Mark Stroud , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — “Communication is everything for what we do,” said Staff Sgt. Jonathan Morgan, personal security detachment chief, Personal Security Detachment, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward). “If you can’t communicate you don’t know what is happening, you can’t coordinate with other elements and you can’t reinforce yourself; your command and signal is gone.”

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July 16, 2012

“Duty Expert” keeps combat logistics patrols moving

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 07.16.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – “Flat tires, blown transmissions, and even vehicle accidents are common occurrences in the harsh environment and inherent danger of a war zone,” said Staff Sgt. Brendan H. Chamburs, company gunnery sergeant, Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward). “The wrecker section has the responsibility to maintain convoy momentum when things go wrong.”

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July 9, 2012

Marine Corps footprint in Afghanistan shifting as drawdown continues

July 9th, 2012 | Afghanistan Drawdown Infantry Marjah | Posted by Dan Lamothe

The Marine Corps’ footprint in Afghanistan is changing dramatically as a drawdown in forces continues throughout the summer.

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July 6, 2012

Marines train with Aussies

7/6/2012 By Cpl. Jonathan Wright , Marine Corps Bases Japan

SHOALWATER BAY, Australia — Marines hugged the walls inside buildings as they trained their eyes skyward from the edges of windows. The low hum that drove them to cover grew louder as high above the town hung the silhouette of an Australian unmanned aerial vehicle.

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July 2, 2012

Marines brace against Aussie advance during Exercise Hamel 2012

Story by Cpl. Jonathan Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 07.02.2012

SHOALWATER BAY, Australia - The Marines hugged the walls inside the buildings as they trained their eyes skyward from the edges of the windows. The low hum that drove them to cover became louder and high above the town hung the silhouette of an Australian unmanned aerial vehicle.

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June 27, 2012

Marine rotational force returns to Australia

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 06.27.2012

ROBERTSON BARRACKS, NORTHERN TERRITORY, Australia – Approximately 200 Marines with the Marine rotational force in Darwin returned to Australia June 26 and 27 to continue training with the Australian Defence Force. The Marines first arrived in Australia on April 3, 2012, following the force posture initiative announced by Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard and U.S. President Barack Obama on November 16, 2011.

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June 25, 2012

Fighting Irish: deployed crew chief fulfills dream

Story by Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 06.25.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Flying over southwestern Afghanistan, a voice came over the radio, drawing the crew chiefs’ attention to a large truck and SUVs racing through the desert. Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, “Vengeance,” were performing aerial reconnaissance in the area, looking for any suspicious vehicles or potential insurgent activity.

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June 22, 2012

5th ANGLICO returns home

6/22/2012 By Lance Cpl. Matthew Manning , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — More than 70 Marines with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company returned to Camp Hansen from Afghanistan June 11.

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5th ANGLICO honors, remembers fallen brother

6/22/2012 By Lance Cpl. Matthew Manning , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — Marines and sailors with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company gathered in the Camp Hansen chapel June 14 to honor the life of Sgt. Julian C. Chase.

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June 21, 2012

MEB troops to get prestigious valor award

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Jun 21, 2012 16:00:50 EDT

About 28,000 U.S. and coalition forces who fought a thriving insurgency in Afghanistan in 2009 and 2010 under the command of a Marine expeditionary brigade will receive the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation, Marine Corps Times has learned.

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June 20, 2012

Long Island native uses years of mechanical expertise to keep logistics Marines mission ready

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 06.20.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan —“When you have a [mechanically inclined] mind and you are familiar with how an engine works and how a vehicle works, you can solve a lot of the problems and issues that come up on convoys, that you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to [fix],” said Cpl. Jason K. Fricke.

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June 18, 2012

Combat Logistics Battalion 4 supports Operation Branding Iron

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 06.18.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Marines and sailors with 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), provided sustained logistics support to Regimental Combat Team 6, north of Musa Qal’ah, May 27-June 11, in support of Operation Branding Iron.

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June 17, 2012

Where will Hawaii-bound Marines live and work?

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Jun 17, 2012 11:03:51 EDT

The U.S. military’s plan to shift as many as 2,700 Marines from Okinawa, Japan, to Hawaii raises a key question: Where will they work and live?

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June 15, 2012

Marines with 9th ESB return from Afghanistan

6/15/2012 By Pfc. Codey Underwood , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — 9th Engineer Support Battalion returned home and were greeted by their friends and family at Camp Hansen June 5 after a seven-month deployment in Afghanistan.

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June 14, 2012

Infantry battalion arrives at Schwab

Story by Lance Cpl. Erik Brooks | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 06.11.2012
Date Posted:06.14.2012 19:53

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa, Japan — Fourth Marine Regiment welcomed 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, June 11, as the first infantry battalion in the unit deployment program to deploy to Camp Schwab in several years.

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June 2, 2012

Family mourns Marine killed in Afghanistan

By TINA REED Staff Writer
Posted: Saturday, June 2, 2012 6:00 am | Updated: 12:25 am, Sat Jun 2, 2012.

A 22-year-old Marine from Edgewater was killed on Memorial Day while serving in Afghanistan, the U.S. Department of Defense said this week.

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May 30, 2012

Wing Chaplain provides spiritual help on the fly

Photos by Cpl. Isaac Lamberth | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 05.27.2012
Date Posted:05.30.2012 10:39

Navy Cmdr. Francis Foley, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) command chaplain, and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Randall, a religious program specialist were at Combat Outpost Now Zad, Afghanistan, May 27. Foley and Randall delivered care packages to the Marines at the outpost.

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May 26, 2012

Maintenance Marines keep battalion rolling

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 05.26.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan ——“Maintenance is the lifeblood of the battalion,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Troy C. Havard, maintenance officer, Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward).

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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].”

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May 23, 2012

From the couch to combat

Story by Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 05.23.2012

Sgt. Enrique Zamora, a crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466 and Los Fresnos, Texas, native, keeps an unusual collection with him on flights: a selection of Chevrolet Hot Wheels cars.

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May 22, 2012

Marines implement recycling program, save battalion thousands of dollars

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 05.22.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Lance Cpl. Matthew S. Belk, a motor vehicle mechanic with Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), came up with a plan to help his battalion save money in a combat zone through recycling.

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May 18, 2012

CLR-37 deploys to Afghanistan

5/18/2012 By Lance Cpl. Matthew Manning , Marine Corps Bases Japan

KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 100 Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 37 gathered on Kadena Air Base to deploy to Afghanistan May 13.

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May 16, 2012

Combat Logistics Battalion 4 assists realigning Marine Corps forces in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 05.16.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Service members attached to 1st MLG (Fwd) provide tactical logistics support to adjacent units in Regional Command (Southwest) and assist in the Marine Corps’ reset and reconstitution effort. Whether it is engineering operations, maintaining vehicles, supplying units or identifying excess gear, 1st MLG (Fwd) Marines and sailors get the mission accomplished.

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May 15, 2012

Future of Garmsir in Afghan hands, ‘America’s Battalion’ completes final Helmand tour

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 05.15.2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — In the fall of 2004, the Marines and sailors of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment began a challenging journey that took them to the Middle East and central Asia.

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May 7, 2012

A Marine’s perspective on progress in Helmand province

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 05.07.2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Over the past seven months, I’ve seen and experienced progress in Afghanistan most Americans will never hear about from mainstream media.

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May 6, 2012

V-mail and Gmail

Story by Isaac Lamberth | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar / 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 05.06.2012

LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan - On April 28, 1941 – 71 years ago today as I write this – Leo Morgenstern, my great grandfather, wrote a letter from Nazi-occupied France to his son in America, asking for bribe money to facilitate his escape. The letter arrived in January, 1944, having been held up by a British censor due to concerns over its origins behind enemy lines. If only he could have sent an e-mail, he might not have perished at Auschwitz.

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May 4, 2012

CLB-4 expands patrols to new supply route

5/4/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

Afghanistan — Marines with Company A, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, conducted a combat logistics patrol along Route Red-West for the first time recently.

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May 2, 2012

The Last Patrol: ‘America’s Battalion’ Marines near completion of Helmand tour

Photo by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 05.02.2012

On the final patrol of their seven-month deployment, the Marines toured the Durzay region of Helmand province's Garmsir district to disrupt possible insurgent activity. After arriving in Garmsir in October 2011, the Marines aided Afghan National Security Forces in assuming lead security responsibility of the district, developing and expanding legitimate Afghan governance by defeating insurgent forces and securing the people of Garmsir.

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May 1, 2012

'America's Battalion' Marines patrol Garmsir as district prepares for transition

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 04.28.2012
Date Posted:05.01.2012

The 3/3 India Marines gave a battlefield tour of the Safar region to their replacements with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. After arriving in Helmand province's Garmsir district in October 2011, the 'America's Battalion' Marines are nearing the end of their seven-month deployment. During the deployment, they aided Afghan National Security Forces in assuming lead security responsibility of Garmsir, developing and expanding legitimate Afghan governance by defeating insurgent forces and securing the people of Garmsir.

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For instant morale – just add water

5/1/2012 By Sgt. Michele Watson , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WHITEHOUSE, Afghanistan — After a 12-hour foot patrol in the baking heat of the Afghan desert, a shower to wash away the grime and the grit could be the one oasis the Marines and sailors here look forward to upon completing their arduous task.

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April 30, 2012

Dam has hosted Soviets, Brits and U.S. Marines

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Apr 30, 2012 17:26:03 EDT

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ZEEBRUGGE, Afghanistan — Up on this cliffside base, Marines protect the landmark Kajaki Dam while surrounded by the remnants of another bloody war in Afghanistan.

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April 28, 2012

Marine truck convoys begin base closures

Story by Staff Sgt. Brian Buckwalter | Regimental Combat Team 6 | Date: 04.28.2012

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM II, Afghanistan – Although the timeline for the complete withdrawal of combat troops in Afghanistan is still nearly two years away, Marines in southwest Afghanistan are already starting to close bases and consolidate people and equipment.

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April 25, 2012

Nebraska Marine bears big burden on deployment

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Reiriz | 1st Marine Division | Date: 04.25.2012

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WHITEHOUSE, Afghanistan - When a big job calls for a big machine, the Marines call on the expertise of a heavy equipment operator to get the job done.

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April 16, 2012

Raids, helo ops hit Afghan drug smugglers

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Apr 16, 2012 8:19:44 EDT

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Marines are running heliborne operations and other raids this spring to stem the flow of stored poppy out of the country ahead of the next harvest, said the two-star general overseeing ground operations here.

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Warehouse clerks band together in Afghanistan

4/16/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — “Pretty much everything anyone has out here came through supply at one point,” said Lance Cpl. Lud G. Romain, assistant warehouse chief, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward). “We have three lance corporals in the warehouse taking care of the entire battalion.”

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April 15, 2012

Marines set the pace for annual race

SARAH CRAWFORD | April 15th, 2012

CROSS-country competitors had to weave in and out of 150 US Marines who were running in formation at the annual Darwin long-distance race.

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April 14, 2012

Marines continue infrastructure growth in Afghanistan

Story by Sgt. Michele Watson | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 04.14.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Marines with Support Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) worked tirelessly toward the completion of a 12 kilometer stretch of road.

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April 13, 2012

The Unknown Soldiers: A Marine Named Fancy

By Tom Sileo
Published 04/13/12

Lance Cpl. Stuart Ferreri is just old enough to legally buy a beer in the United States. Yet the Marine, 21, is already on his second deployment to Afghanistan.

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April 12, 2012

Comstock Marine drives forward

Story by 2nd Lt. Scott Murdock | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 04.12.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – When he is on his family farm, Dana Brakke can be found driving a John Deere through the green fields of Comstock, Minn. These days, he can be found driving an armored truck through the sand of southwest Afghanistan

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Task Force Leatherneck commanding general visits Afghan, Marine forces in Garmsir

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 04.12.2012

During their visit to Helmand province’s Garmsir district, U.S. Marine Maj. Gen. David Berger and members of his staff surveyed positions manned by ‘America’s Battalion’ and Afghan National Security Forces. They discussed the progress made in Garmsir by the partnered forces, upcoming district community council elections and the nearing transition of lead security responsibility to Afghan forces.

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April 11, 2012

Setting the Conditions: Motor Transport Marines prepare Garmsir for transition

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 04.11.2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Over the past four years, seven U.S. Marine battalions have rotated through Helmand province’s Garmsir district.

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April 9, 2012

Engineers pave way for progress

Story by 2nd Lt. Scott Murdock | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 04.09.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - “When I was here last, we had a 12-year-old boy turn his father in for making [improvised explosive devices],” said Capt. Aaron Fisher, Support Company commander, 9th Engineer Support Battalion. “We asked him why he’d do that. He said he learned in school that IEDs are bad and that bad people make them.”

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April 7, 2012

Marine engineers improve road for local village

Story by Anthony Ward | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 04.07.2012

SHIR GHAZAY, Afghanistan -- As Afghanistan continues to transition into a stronger, Afghan-led country, Marines continue to do their part by leaving things better than they found them.

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April 6, 2012

Bravo Co. Marines take on new mission, demilitarize base

4/6/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

PATROL BASE MIRMANDAB, Afghanistan — Marines with 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), assisted in demilitarizing Patrol Base Mirmandab, March 23-31.

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Corpsmen save crash victims

4/6/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP DELARAM II, Afghanistan — Two corpsmen were recognized for saving the lives of mass-casualty victims during a ceremony here March 28.

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For Marines on the battlefield, urgent care is just a call away

4/6/2012 By Cpl. Isaac Lamberth , 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (FWD)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — A four-vehicle convoy travels along the barren desert when the first vehicle is suddenly struck by an improvised explosive device. A Marine in the first vehicle is hit in the face by shrapnel. A Navy Corpsman riding in the third vehicle jumps out and pulls the injured Marine from the vehicle and rushes to assess his injuries. The convoy commander immediately radios for a medical evacuation.

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April 4, 2012

First 200 US Marines land at Aussie training hub

By ROD McGUIRK
Associated Press
Apr 4, 6:32 AM EDT

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) -- The first detachment of 200 U.S. Marines has arrived in northern Australia, where a permanent joint training hub is taking shape as part of a U.S. shift of military strength in the Asia-Pacific region.

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CLB-4 Marines innovate, clean vehicles efficiently

4/4/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Marines with Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), completed construction of a vehicle washrack at the battalion motor pool, March 27.

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April 3, 2012

Support Marines, sailors help EOD Company accomplish the mission

Story by Sgt. John Jackson | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 04.03.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Operational tempo in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, continues at a high pace. Service members continue to conduct foot patrols, mounted patrols, resupply convoys and construction projects on a daily basis. Throughout these missions, the number one hostile threat to coalition forces continues to be improvised explosive devices.

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April 1, 2012

Dogs of war: Friends and saviors of Marines in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 03.29.2012
Date Posted:04.01.2012 14:14

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Without the Marine’s watchful eyes and his dog’s trained nose, the round metal container packed with 40 pounds of homemade explosives could have wreaked destruction on their patrol.

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March 30, 2012

Marine helicopter squadron honors six killed in Afghanistan

Story by Sgt. Brian Tuthill | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 03.30.2012

MARINE CORP BASE, Hawaii - Nearly 100 Marines, sailors, family members and friends gathered today to honor six Marines of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 who were killed Jan. 19 when their CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter went down in Afghanistan.

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Kids explore military life at MCAS' 2012 Children's Expo

Story by Lance Cpl. Sean Dennison | Marine Corps Air Station Yuma | Date: 03.29.2012

YUMA, Ariz. - MCAS Yuma opened up its flight line to special needs youth for them to get a taste of the annual Yuma Air Show during the Children's Expo, March 16.

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Company hits stride, completes largest patrol to date

3/30/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Company A, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, completed the largest combat logistics patrol to-date through Helmand province March 12-14.

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March 27, 2012

Killing Time: Bragging Rights

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 03.27.2012

This is the seventh installment in a series on U.S. Marines and Navy corpsmen from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, based out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. After laboring through training in the California desert in 2011, they are now supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Grueling days and the absence of home’s amenities here make their work exhausting and their down time precious. They labor with little and appreciate the simple. This is their deployment grind.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Afghanistan — The ragged dartboard nestled between camouflage uniform items and a giant American flag has seen better days.

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March 25, 2012

Afghan forces, ‘America’s Battalion’ Marines keep Garmsir safe during Afghan New Year

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 03.21.2012
Date Posted:03.25.2012 11:43

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — The celebration of the Afghan New Year was outlawed while Helmand province’s Garmsir district was under insurgent rule prior to the arrival of coalition forces in 2005.

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March 21, 2012

'Rain Man' keeps 31st MEU systems operating

Story by Cpl. Garry Welch | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 03.21.2012

USS ESSEX, At Sea — The ability to look at problems in a different way, and then solve them when no one else could is what earned him the nickname, “Rain Man.”

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Marine serves two crucial roles for 31st MEU

Story by Cpl. Garry Welch | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 03.21.2012

USS ESSEX, At Sea — Every Marine and sailor aboard the USS Essex serves a crucial role in the success of the mission, but Lance Cpl. Samantha A. Sabalboro serves two.

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March 13, 2012

From tragedy comes Tomodachi, bonds built out of the Tohoku disaster

3/13/2012 By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, At Sea — One year ago on March 11, an undersea earthquake rocked the eastern coast of Japan, its 9.0 magnitude making it one of the five most powerful earthquakes in the world since 1900. Just 70 kilometers off the coast of Tohoku, the quake triggered a violent tsunami which damaged more than one hundred thousand buildings, killed or injured tens of thousands of people and caused meltdowns in reactors of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.

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March 12, 2012

Wounded EOD Marine receives award from Georgian President

3/12/2012 By Sgt. John Jackson , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Staff Sgt. Marcus Burleson, an explosive ordnance disposal technician and team leader with 2nd EOD Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) was awarded the General Kvinitadze medal, which is given to foreign service members who significantly contribute in the development of Republic of Georgia-foreign nation military cooperation, Feb. 3.

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March 11, 2012

CLB-4 supports intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance operations with combat logistics patrol

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 03.11.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Marines with Bravo Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), conducted a combat logistics patrol in support of counterinsurgency operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan, March 4–7.

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March 9, 2012

CLB-4 overcomes mud, flooding to deliver supplies

3/9/2012 By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — During entry-level training, Marines are taught the five stresses encountered during combat: extreme risk or fear, the fog of war, discomfort and fatigue, becoming or dealing with casualties and boredom.

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March 7, 2012

Making Strides Behind the Scenes: Afghan forces, Marines serve Garmsir from operational coordination center

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 03.07.2012

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Afghanistan — Throughout Garmsir district’s developing city centers and sparsely populated desert areas, the familiar sight of Afghan National Security Forces is evidence of the growth in Afghan-led security operations.

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Marines heed locals’ call, provide long term bridge solution

3/7/2012 By 2nd Lt. Tyler Morrison , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

SHIR GHAZAY, Afghanistan — Combat Engineers with Bridge Platoon, Alpha Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) completed construction on a non-standard bridge that will provide a long term solution for local traffic in the area here, Mar.6.

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March 6, 2012

Marines tear it up with 'Gator' steel

Story by Lance Cpl. James Sauter | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 02.28.2012
Date Posted:03.06.2012 16:23

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - Marines of Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon, Combat Assault Company, 3rd Marine Regiment, partnered with members of the Environmental Compliance and Protection Department during the 30th annual Mud Operations, here, Feb. 28 trough March 1.

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9th ESB Marines defy challenges, complete construction mission

3/6/2012 By Cpl. Michele Watson , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — It’s 7 o’clock on a Sunday night. The sky is pitch black, and it is starting to rain again. The gunner strains his eyes to look for any moving figures illuminated by the frequent flashes of lightning across the sky.

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Marine MPs provide security, keep engineering operations safe

3/6/2012 By Sgt. John Jackson , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Whether the Marines of 9th Engineer Support Battalion are building bridges or roads or constructing new structures on patrol bases throughout Helmand province, the Marines provide tactical logistics support so that other units have what they need to accomplish their mission. However, completing these tasks takes not only the hard work of combat engineers, motor transport operators and heavy equipment operators, but military police Marines to provide security to ensure the mission is accomplished in the safest environment possible.

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March 4, 2012

31st MEU embarks for AIT, CERTEX

3/4/2012 By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, At Sea — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit has embarked Navy ships in order to conduct amphibious integration training and a follow on certification exercise before continuing the deployment in the Asia-Pacific region.

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March 3, 2012

CLB-4 maintains physical edge

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 03.03.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — The Combat Logistics Battalion 4 motor pool hums with activity throughout the day, its frenetic bustle slowing only slightly as the sun sets, and a night-crew replaces their daytime counterparts.

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March 1, 2012

CLB-4 conducts convoy

Story by Cpl. Mark Stroud | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 03.02.2012

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WHITEHOUSE, Afghanistan - A Marine convoy delivered supplies to Forward Operating Bases Nolay and Whitehouse here during an operation Feb. 14-16.

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There's No Place Like A Patrol Base

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 02.25.2012
Date Posted:02.29.2012 20:15

PATROL BASE BURY, Afghanistan — Their humble home is exceptionally primitive, but it’s all the deployed infantrymen need.

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February 26, 2012

9th ESB Marines defy challenges, complete construction mission

Story by Cpl. Michele Watson | 1st Marine Logistics Group | Date: 02.26.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – It’s 7 o’clock on a Sunday night. The sky is pitch black, and it is starting to rain again. The gunner strains his eyes to look for any moving figures illuminated by the frequent flashes of lightning across the sky.

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February 24, 2012

Corpsman proves valuable to team in Afghanistan

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 02.24.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - During the late afternoon hours of Jan. 30, Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), were working hard to take apart a medium girder bridge in the rural district of Garmsir, in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. During the disassembly, part of the bridge inadvertently gave way and landed on a Marine’s leg, sending him to the ground, writhing in pain.

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February 22, 2012

Marines sweep uncharted areas of Khan-Neshin during Operation Highland Thunder

Story by Cpl. Alfred V. Lopez | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 02.22.2012

SRE KALA, Helmand province, Afghanistan – A large plot of austere terrain in the southern portion of Khan-Neshin district is home to local farmers who make a living growing crops far from the more developed districts of southern Helmand province.

Continue reading "Marines sweep uncharted areas of Khan-Neshin during Operation Highland Thunder" »

February 16, 2012

Operation Shahem Tofan: Afghan Border Police, Marines extend reach toward Helmand border

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 02.16.2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The thunderous clap of low-flying helicopters reverberates off an endless desert landscape. Inside the mechanical fortress, rows of Afghan Border Police and U.S. Marines stare out the open back hatch, calmly watching the wilderness rapidly retract beneath them.

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February 15, 2012

A Marine’s Journal – 1st Lt. David Morgenstern

Courtesy Story | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing | Date: 02.15.2012

In Bangor, Maine there is a group of people that greets each flight carrying deploying or returning U.S. troops. I first met a few of them in March 2010 when, as a new second lieutenant in the Marine Corps, I passed through on my way to Afghanistan.

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February 14, 2012

Never a Bridge Too Far: Combat Engineers increase mobility in Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 02.14.2012

GARMSIR, Afghanistan - During the last week of January, fifty-five Marines of Bridge Platoon, Alpha Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) traveled nearly 80 miles through the central portion of Helmand province in order to reach Combat Outpost Rankel, a small base located in the district of Garmsir, Helmand province. Their mission consisted of removing a medium girder bridge and replacing it with a more permanent and cost-efficient structure that would increase the mobility of the Marines and Afghans in the area.

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February 10, 2012

Illinois Corpsman works with Combat Engineers, proves his worth in Garmsir

2/10/2012 By Cpl. Bryan Nygaard , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

GARMSIR, Afghanistan — During the late afternoon hours of Jan. 30, Marines with Bridge Platoon, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), were working hard to take apart a medium girder bridge in the rural district of Garmsir, Helmand province. During the disassembly, part of the bridge inadvertently gave way and landed on a Marine’s leg, sending him to the ground, writhing in pain.

Continue reading "Illinois Corpsman works with Combat Engineers, proves his worth in Garmsir " »

February 9, 2012

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.

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February 3, 2012

31st MEU departs for CG 12

Story by Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 02.03.2012

CAMP HANSEN, Japan - Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit departed Okinawa en route to the Kingdom of Thailand Jan. 25 to participate in Exercise Cobra Gold.

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Afghan Border Police, Marine partnership furthers governance in southern Helman

2/3/2012 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , Regimental Combat Team 5

BANADAR, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Situated in the southern portion of Afghanistan’s Helmand province, Garmsir district has historically been a highway for insurgent movement from Pakistan.

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January 27, 2012

31st MEU secures beach with amphibious assault

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 01.27.2012

Sporadic bursts of rifle fire cut through the still air, drawing an immediate response from the Marines staged on the opposite end of the clearing. Calls for maneuvers were made as groups of Marines took up defensive positions, returning fire in the direction of the enemy contact. Minutes later, three hostiles were either killed or captured, and a security perimeter was established around the cleared area.

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The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit departs for Cobra Gold 2012

1/27/2012 By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright , 31st MEU

OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit has kicked off the new year by departing for the multi-lateral training exercise Cobra Gold 2012.

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9th ESB completes road construction in Helmand

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 01.27.2012

Marine combat engineers are known for being the first called when something needs to be repaired, improvised, built or even destroyed. These capabilities often earn them accolades from their fellow Marines.

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January 25, 2012

Motorcade, public memorial this weekend for fallen Marine from Ferndale

CALEB HUTTON; THE BELLINGHAM HERALD
Published: 01/25/12 5:01 pm | Updated: 01/26/12 9:18 am

A public motorcade is tentatively scheduled for Saturday afternoon, Jan. 28, in honor of a U.S. Marine from Ferndale who died last week in Afghanistan.

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January 22, 2012

Classmates, teachers remember Crystal Lake Marine killed in Afghanistan

McHone was inspiration to work hard, "always wanted to be the best he could"

By KATIE ANDERSON - [email protected]
Created: Sunday, January 22, 2012 5:30 a.m. CST

CRYSTAL LAKE – To his classmates and former coaches at Crystal Lake South High School, “Nate” McHone always will be an inspiration to work hard at whatever task sits before you.

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January 21, 2012

Lava Viper 2012

Photos by Sgt. Pete Thibodeau | Marine Forces Pacific Combat Camera | Date: 01.20.2012
Date Posted:01.21.2012 04:52

Lava Viper is a battalion-level combined-arms training exercise to better prepare Marines for upcoming deployments.

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January 19, 2012

Garmsir district eyes growth through ongoing school construction

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.19.2012

Twelve permanent schools are currently under construction by local contractors in Garmsir district. U.S. Marines with the civil affairs team in support of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, visited several sites to inspect the structures and ensure compliance with the quality assurance standards of the Afghan government. The buildings are projected for mid-year completion.

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Marine Infantrymen Mentor Afghan Police force in Garmsir

Video by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.13.2012
Date posted: 01:19:2012

Afghan National Police patrolmen and U.S. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, stand post at Patrol Base Amir Agha and conduct a partnered vehicle checkpoint here, Jan. 13. Produced by Cpl. Reece Lodder

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Poulsbo, Wash., native answers call as chaplain

1/19/2012 By Cpl. Meredith Brown , 2nd Marine Division

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Afghanistan — It is Saturday night. The moon is visible through the sandy haze. The sounds of Guitar Hero are heard outside a small tent. A group of Marines are gathered inside rocking out to the various bands. Lt. Bryan Davenport, the chaplain for 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division (Forward), watches the Marines give their best shot before piping up from the back row and asking to get the next turn.

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January 18, 2012

Combat engineers improve ‘Old Silk Road’

Story by Master Gunnery Sgt. Phil Mehringer | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | Date: 01.18.2012

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- Nearly 150 Marines from 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward)’s 9th Engineer Support Battalion converged in the open Helmand desert on a dry river bed known as a wadi. They needed to quickly build a land bridge through the wadi, rushing to complete the project before the seasonal, heavy monsoon rains began.

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January 17, 2012

Cpl. Karl Winar

Video by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.17.2012

U.S Marine Cpl. Karl Winar, a 20-year-old motor transport operator with Trucks Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and a native of Flemington, N.J., sends a shout out to his family. Produced by Cpl. Reece Lodder. Also available in high definition.

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Marine helicopter mechanic in Afghanistan saves lives with maintenance discovery

Story by Cpl. Brian Jones | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 01.17.2012

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - A Marine Corps sergeant in Afghanistan who unearthed a never-before-seen maintenance issue in a UH-1Y Huey was recently awarded by the Marine Corps for his potentially lifesaving find.

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January 16, 2012

Marine infantrymen mentor Afghan police force in Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.13.2012
Date posted: 01:16:2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — When U.S. Marines with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, arrived here in early November, they met an Afghan National Police force primed for development.

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January 13, 2012

9th ESB combat engineers demilitarize Afghanistan firebase

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 01.13.2012
By Cpl. Bryan Nygaard
2ND MARINE LOGISTICS GROUP (FWD)

FIREBASE SAENZ, Afghanistan Firebase Saenz has been destroyed. Its defenses have been torn down, and its walls have been completely leveled. This destruction was not caused by insurgents – it was the handiwork of Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion.

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EX LAVA VIPER B ROLL

Video by Lance Cpl. Robert Bush | Marine Forces Pacific Combat Camera | Date: 01.13.2012

U.S. Marines with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment are conducting a live hand grenade range during Lava Viper in Pohakuloa Training Area, Jan. 13, 2012.

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Lava Viper

Photos by Cpl. Demetrius Munnerlyn | Marine Forces Pacific Combat Camera | Date: 01.13.2012

Lava Viper is a battalion level combined arms training exercise to better prepare Marines for upcoming deployment.

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January 10, 2012

Operation Tageer Shamal: Afghans, Marines extend presence west of Helmand River

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.10.2012

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The heart of Garmsir district is safe.

Continue reading "Operation Tageer Shamal: Afghans, Marines extend presence west of Helmand River" »

Marines pursue Taliban into Helmand’s outer reaches

January 10th, 2012 | Battle Rattle | Posted by James Sanborn

Third Battalion, 3rd Marines, is shifting the fight in Helmand province to the countryside in pursuit of fighters who have been driven to the region’s remote outer reaches over the past two years.

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January 9, 2012

Afghan, Marine forces clear remnants of insurgency in southern Helmand

Story by 2nd Lt. Chris Harper | Regimental Combat Team-5Afghan, Marine forces clear remnants of insurgency in southern Helmand, 1st Marine Division | Date: 01.08.2012
Date Posted:01.09.2012 15:02

CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces with Regimental Combat Team 5 have launched Operation Tageer Shamal (Shifting Winds), a clearing operation focused on removing the final strains of the insurgency in southern Helmand province.

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Afghan, Marine forces clear remnants of insurgency in southern Helmand

By Chris Harper, Regimental Combat Team 5

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan, (January 9th, 2012) — Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces with Regimental Combat Team 5 have launched Operation Tageer Shamal (Shifting Winds), a clearing operation focused on removing the final strains of the insurgency in southern Helmand province.

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January 7, 2012

Detroit native draws on experience to lead Marines

Story by Cpl. Meredith Brown | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | Date: 01.07.2012

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Nicholas Marchioni enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2000 as an infantryman and like many, he completed his four-year contract and headed back home to start a new chapter in his life.

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January 6, 2012

Combat engineers perform route recon mission, paving the way for road improvements in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Meredith Brown | 2nd Marine Logistics Group | Date: 01.06.2012

SHIR GHAZAY, Afghanistan - Two Marines carefully stepped out of the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle and extended their metal detectors to full length during a route reconnaissance mission on Route Red, Jan. 1-3. The quick checks were conducted to calibrate the detectors and the Marines began the meticulous sweeping process, ensuring that the area was clear of improvised explosive devices.

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January 2, 2012

Marines save Afghans in daring canal rescue

By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Monday Jan 2, 2012 10:26:48 EST

A routine Afghan-Marine foot patrol was thrown into chaos Dec. 2 when a car traveling more than 40 mph struck the point man, plunging both car and soldier violently into a nearby canal.

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December 31, 2011

Afghan soldiers, Marines join forces to patrol southern Garmsir district

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.30.2011
Date Posted:12.31.2011 07:34

. 'America's Battalion' is aiding the Afghan National Security Forces in assuming security responsibilities over Helmand province's Garmsir district. This interoperability is designed to further the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance of Afghanistan by defeating insurgent forces and helping secure the Afghan people.

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From insurgent hotbed to commercial hub: Afghans, Marines clear Safar Bazaar of remnants of illegal activity during Operation Sandman

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.28.2011
Date Posted:12.31.2011 07:20

SAFAR BAZAAR, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Safar Bazaar was once a hotbed for insurgents, its shops teeming with illegal drugs and streets laden with improvised explosive devices.

Continue reading "From insurgent hotbed to commercial hub: Afghans, Marines clear Safar Bazaar of remnants of illegal activity during Operation Sandman" »

December 25, 2011

Operation Noel: Marine helicopters spread Christmas spirit in Afghanistan

Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher Flurry | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 12.25.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - Capt. Jeff Barnes isn’t really Santa Claus, but don’t tell that to the Marines in Afghanistan.

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Marines, sailors of ‘America’s Battalion’ celebrate Christmas in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.25.2011

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Helmand province, Afghanistan — At work a world away from home, the Marines and sailors of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment celebrated Christmas in Afghanistan, Dec. 25.

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December 24, 2011

Killing Time: Channeling boredom into board games

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.21.2011
Date Posted:12.24.2011 02:31

COMBAT OUTPOST KOSHTAY, Helmand province, Afghanistan — A group of infantry Marines huddle around a Scrabble board, barely visible beneath filthy camouflage utilities and a mishmash of warming layers. Sheltered in the meager warmth of an unheated concrete room, they fill their down time by channeling boredom into a board game.

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December 23, 2011

Wounded Marine inspires AP photographer's search

Associated Press
By ANJA NIEDRINGHAUS
AP – Fri, Dec 23, 2011

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Inside the medevac helicopter in Afghanistan, U.S. Marine Cpl. Burness Britt bleeds profusely from his neck. He and two other Marines have just been hit by shrapnel, with Britt's injuries the most serious. The medevac crew chief clutches one of Britt's blood-covered hands as he is given oxygen. I take hold of the other.

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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.

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Unmanned helicopter makes first delivery for Marines in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Justin Boling | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 12.23.2011

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan -- Unmanned systems have revolutionized combat aviation, providing a colossal advantage in the fight against terror with surveillance and close-air support.

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December 22, 2011

Combat engineers tear down patrol bases throughout Helmand province, paving way for Afghan pullout

12/22/2011 By Cpl. Bryan Nygaard , 9th Engineer Support Battalion

FIREBASE SAENZ, Afghanistan — Firebase Saenz has been destroyed. Its defenses have been torn down and its walls have been completely leveled. This destruction was not caused by insurgents – it was the handiwork of Marines from the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward).

Continue reading "Combat engineers tear down patrol bases throughout Helmand province, paving way for Afghan pullout " »

December 19, 2011

With transition in sight, Afghan soldiers lead Marines in patrolling Garmsir district

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.19.2011

On the patrol, the ANA and Marines interacted with local citizens and conducted a vehicle checkpoint. The Marines of "America's Battalion" are aiding the Afghan National Security Forces in assuming security responsibilities over Helmand province's Garmsir district. Their interoperability is designed to further the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance of Afghanistan by defeating insurgent forces and helping secure the Afghan people.

Continue reading "With transition in sight, Afghan soldiers lead Marines in patrolling Garmsir district" »

December 18, 2011

Combat cooks feed 'America’s Battalion' in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.15.2011
Date Posted:12.18.2011 07:15

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The clock has barely passed 4 a.m., and the base is asleep. Few souls aboard Forward Operating Base Delhi have stirred to brave the morning cold, a bitter chill that lingers until it’s been chased away by the mid-day sun.

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December 14, 2011

Eyes opened through pain, my experience with OC training

12/14/2011 By 2nd Lt. Dave Baugh , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — Within seconds of being sprayed, my eyelids slammed shut, hornets stung at my eyes and molten steel was poured over my face. This was my experience with Oleoresin Capsicum, commonly known as Pepper Spray.

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Marines plunge into frigid canal to save nine Afghans

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.14.2011

KUCHINEY DARVISHAN, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Dimly illuminated by a sliver of moonlight, eight shadowy figures quietly patrolled a gravel road set against a swiftly flowing canal.

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December 11, 2011

Repetitive yet reliable, vehicle checkpoints protect Afghans and Marines

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.11.2011

SAR BANADAR, Helmand province, Afghanistan — A short distance off a dusty Afghan road, two U.S. Marines brave the chill of an early winter morning as they await a flood of local traffic.

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December 7, 2011

Progress through partnership: Afghan soldiers, Marines pair up to patrol Garmsir

Photo by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.07.2011

Photos of Afghan National Army soldiers and 3/3 Marines who met with local elders at a shura and built rapport with local children during the patrol. The Marines of “America’s Battalion” will continue to mentor Afghan National Security Forces as they assume security responsibility in Garmsir district. Their interoperability is designed to further the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance of Afghanistan by defeating insurgent forces and helping secure the Afghan people.

Continue reading "Progress through partnership: Afghan soldiers, Marines pair up to patrol Garmsir" »

December 5, 2011

US Marines save, heal Afghan IED victim

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 12.02.2011
Date Posted:12.05.2011 11:51

SAR BANADAR, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Nine months ago, a quiet 15-year-old Afghan boy had the last normal morning of his life.

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December 4, 2011

Fallen Marine receives a hero's welcome

Grieving family gathers at McNary Field as their fallen Marine comes home

Written by
Capi Lynn
Statesman Journal
11:52 PM, Dec. 4, 2011

Marine Cpl. Adam Buyes was welcomed home Sunday during a somber but stately ceremony on a flag-lined tarmac at McNary Field, eight days after he was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan.

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On post or patrol, Guard Force Platoon maintains security in Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.28.2011
Date Posted:12.04.2011 15:20

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Afghanistan — Against the backdrop of a piercing mid-day sun, a squad of U.S. Marines quietly patrols along a Garmsir road. A slew of guests walk evenly within their ranks, following their escorts through the bazaar.

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December 2, 2011

Marine’s Christmas song offers tribute to family back home

12/2/2011 By Cpl. Brian Adam Jones , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan —

While deployed to Iraq, Robert Allen wrote a song for his wife, Carla. He sent it to her on Christmas Eve.

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3rd Recon Marines, loved ones reunite

12/2/2011 By Lance Cpl. Daniel E. Valle , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 34 Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion’s advanced party returned to Okinawa Nov. 27, where they were met with open arms following a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan.

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December 1, 2011

Mess hall Marines maintain 3rd Recon morale

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 12.01.2011

PATROL BASE ALCATRAZ, Helmand province, Afghanistan – Most people do not think twice about the food they eat each day and come to assume three hot meals will be available. The Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion quickly realized the value of a hot meal after eating pre-packaged Meals-Ready-to-Eat for the first six weeks of their deployment. Fortunately for them, that has all changed.

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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.

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November 28, 2011

Encroachment causes safety risks in East Miramar

Story by Lance Cpl. Erica Disalvo | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 11.28.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRIMAR, Calif. -- Random police patrols have increased on East Miramar aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar due to encroachment by the public and acts of vandalism to historic sites located in the area.

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Salem Marine Cpl. Adam Buyes dies in combat in Afghanistan

Published: Monday, November 28, 2011, 7:37 PM
By Ray Whitehouse, The Oregonian

A 21-year-old Marine from Salem has died while fighting in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Salem Marine Cpl. Adam Buyes dies in combat in Afghanistan" »

November 26, 2011

SURVIVAL

Story by Staff Sgt. Ryan Smith | Regimental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division | Date: 11.26.2011

COMBAT OUTPOST ALCATRAZ, Helmand province, Afghanistan - The Upper Sangin Valley has been a hot bed of insurgent activity in the Sangin District with constant threats of improvised explosive devices and fire fights against Afghan National Army members and coalition forces. For the past five months, the Marines of 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion have been working hard to secure the tiny villages north of Sangin as well as secure their portion of Route 611, a north-south highway running parallel to the Helmand River, and a major transportation route used for commerce in the area.

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November 22, 2011

Bringing governance to ungoverned places: District governor, Marine leaders interact with citizens of southern Garmsir

Photo by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.22.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — In the furthest reaches of Garmsir district, nearly 70 kilometers from the district center, a mixture of local elders and farmers sat quietly around a collection of ornately woven Afghan rugs, awaiting discussion with their district governor and Marine leaders.

Continue reading "Bringing governance to ungoverned places: District governor, Marine leaders interact with citizens of southern Garmsir" »

November 21, 2011

Marine brothers meet in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.21.2011

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — When Cpl. Axel Benitez joined the Marine Corps more than three years ago, he never thought his younger brother would follow in his footsteps.

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November 20, 2011

Recon COIN ops create change in Upper Sangin Valley

Story by Staff Sgt. Ryan Smith | Regimental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division | Date: 11.19.2011
Date Posted:11.20.2011 13:27

SANGIN DISTRICT, Afghanistan - Since the early days of their deployment to the Upper Sangin Valley of Afghanistan, the Marines of 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion have been relentless in their pursuit of insurgents, often fighting a battle not traditionally suited for their expertise.

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Transition in Garmsir: ‘America’s Battalion’ replaces ‘Lava Dogs’ in southern Helmand

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder
Date Posted:11.20.2011 02:27

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Following the completion of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment’s successful seven-month deployment here, Lt. Col. Matthew J. Palma, 3/3 commanding officer, accepted responsibility of the district from Lt. Col. Sean Riordan, 1st Battalion 3rd Marine Regiment commanding officer, during a relief in place and transfer of authority ceremony here, Nov. 17.

Continue reading "Transition in Garmsir: ‘America’s Battalion’ replaces ‘Lava Dogs’ in southern Helmand" »

November 18, 2011

Marines ready Garmsir for transition of authority

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.18.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — When 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, nick-named the Lava Dogs, arrived here mid-April, expectations were of a deployment filled with improvised explosive devices and sporadic firefights.

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Communication Marines facilitate 3/12’s command and control

Story by Lance Cpl. Erik Brooks | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installation Pacific | Date: 11.18.2011

CAMP FUJI, Japan - Immediately upon their arrival, wires spread out and antennas sprout from the ground like spring grass. These Marines set up critical communications assets to allow an artillery battalion to communicate.

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9th ESB deploys in support of OEF

11/18/2011 By Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe , Marine Corps Bases Japan
KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines and sailors with 9th Engineer Support Battalion boarded aircraft here Nov. 12 and departed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, signaling the start of a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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November 17, 2011

Garmsir citizens, Marines honor fallen police chief

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.13.2011
Date Posted:11.17.2011 11:57

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Spread out within a maze of concertina wire and concrete barriers at Garmsir’s district center, Afghan National Police members partnered with Marines from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment to provide security for the funeral of District Chief of Police Lt. Col. Sayfullah Khan Rashidi here, Nov. 13.

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November 16, 2011

Yuma-based Marines with VMA-513 return from Afghanistan

Story by Ruth Castillo, Reporter

MCAS Yuma, Arizona November 16, 2011 - Family and friends gathered at the VMA-513 hangar bay Wednesday night waited with eager anticipation for their Marines after being apart for half a year.

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November 15, 2011

Friendly faces: 3/3 Marines interact with Garmsir children

Photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.15.2011

Headquarters and Service Company Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, patrol. They interacted with children and spoke with local leaders. “America’s Battalion” recently arrived in Garmsir. They’ll partner with the Afghan National Security Forces to establish a secure environment and develop district government to better meet the needs of the Afghan people.

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Lest we forget: remembrance service honors Garmsir fallen

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.15.2011

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELHI, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Since 2006, coalition forces have fought to bring security and stability to the once insurgent-heavy Garmsir district. Five years later, coalition forces are near transitioning control of the district to the local government.

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November 11, 2011

Lock Down: Afghan National Security Forces, Marines interdict insurgent movement

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.03.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand Province, Afghanistan — Afghan National Security Forces and Marines from 1st and 3rd Battalions, 3rd Marine Regiment are putting the lock down on roads in Garmsir during operation gridlock here, Nov. 1 and 5.

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November 10, 2011

America’s Battalion’ celebrates 236th Marine Corps birthday in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.10.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — For the second year in a row, “America’s Battalion” celebrated the Marine Corps birthday in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

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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.

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November 7, 2011

‘America’s Battalion’ arrives in Afghanistan

Courtesy Story | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.07.2011

CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Over seven months of training, the Marines and sailors of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, have become hardened for war.

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Images: ‘America’s Battalion’ arrives in Afghanistan

Courtesy Photos | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.07.2011

After departing from Hawaii from Oct. 27 through Nov. 1, “America’s Battalion” arrived in southern Helmand province to begin their seven-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In the coming weeks 3/3 will take control of operations in Garmsir District, relieving fellow Hawaii-based 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment.

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November 4, 2011

'Spam Czar' sends care packages to K-Bay Marines

Story by Christine Cabalo | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 11.04.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii — Retired Marine 2nd Lt. Don Downer is still serving the Corps by sending hundreds of care packages to the deployed, including 2nd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment.

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November 3, 2011

Bridging the way to Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.03.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Two years ago, an improvised explosive device blew a hole in the Darvishan Bridge, a main bridge across the Helmand River here.

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Funeral For South Bay Marine Open to Public

The public is invited to the service

Thursday, Nov 3, 2011

A memorial service has been planned in San Jose for a U.S. Marine from Milpitas who was killed in Afghanistan last week.

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November 1, 2011

Afghan National Army maintains progress in Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 11.01.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand Province, Afghanistan — When 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment arrived in Garmsir, the Afghan National Army acted as augments to the infantry squads of the battalion. There were only a few un-partnered positions and 2nd Kandak, 1st Brigade, 215th Corps was spread throughout the district in groups of three or four soldiers

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October 28, 2011

Marine Sgt. Stephen Dunning, of Milpitas, killed disarming bomb in Afghanistan

By Linda Goldston
[email protected]
Posted: 10/28/2011 08:03:53 PM PDT
Updated: 10/29/2011 04:31:06 AM PDT

Staff Sgt. Stephen Dunning tried to live a selfless life, a life that put him in danger to save the lives of others. He volunteered to be one of the Marines who dismantled the crude bombs insurgents laced along the treacherous trails of Afghanistan.

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October 27, 2011

Patrol base hustle

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 10.27.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Home is where the heart is. In Afghanistan the heart of a Marine is usually a patrol base, an expeditionary camp made to house a no more than a squad-sized element of Marines.

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October 26, 2011

Marine offensive to secure Afghan dam continues

Operation Eastern Storm includes more than 2,000 troops

Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
5:48 p.m., Oct. 26, 2011

A major Marine-led offensive to seize Taliban-controlled territory surrounding a strategic hydroelectric dam in southwestern Afghanistan continued this week, as troops pushed out from the main road and dug in at a new patrol base, the Marines said.

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October 25, 2011

War-zone Marines eating like cavemen

By Gina Cavallaro - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Oct 25, 2011 9:11:39 EDT

GARMSER, Afghanistan — Lt. Col. Sean Riordan used to consider himself chubby. It never kept him from meeting the Marine Corps’ height and weight standards or from scoring in the 280-plus echelon on his physical fitness test. He just chalked up his less-than-desirable physique to genetics.

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October 23, 2011

Cannons help gain territory in Operation Eastern Storm

Story by Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe | Regimental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division | Date: 10.23.2011

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province, Afghanistan -- Howitzers recently fired over the mountains of Kajaki, striking targets they couldn't even see. United States Marines with Battery E, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, inserted themselves into an abandoned compound under the cover of night to establish Observation Post New York. The cannons rang out in support of the insertion, eliminating enemies holding positions against the Marines.

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October 19, 2011

Missionary kid to Marine – Continuing a life of adventure with the Corps

10/19/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU
USS ESSEX, At Sea — Many Marines join the Marine Corps for a chance to travel the world and experience adventure. But for one Marine assigned with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, the Corps is just a continuation of a life of excitement and danger.

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October 16, 2011

CLB-31 trains for disaster relief

10/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Manning , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in a disaster relief training exercise here Oct. 10.

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October 13, 2011

A different fight in Helmand at Fiddlers Green

Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 10.13.2011

FIRE BASE FIDDLERS GREEN, Helmand province, Afghanistan – The Marines of Charlie Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, are always on call. At any moment coalition units in the area could call for fire support, and the artillerymen must be ready day and night.

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Mahafiz Marines keep roads safe

Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 10.13.2011

PATROL BASE MAHAFIZ, Helmand province, Afghanistan – The sparse encampment here consists of little more than sleeping tents, a meeting area and a bird’s nest sentry post standing as a defiant beacon to the insurgency.

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October 12, 2011

Hurricane Katrina Survivor Takes on Afghanistan

October 12, 2011
Marine Corps News|by Cpl. Jeff Drew

FIRE BASE FIDDLERS GREEN, Helmand province, Afghanistan -- When Hurricane Katrina blew through New Orleans decimating homes and changing lives, it also set into motion the fate of one young man and ensured his destiny to become a United States Marine.

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65 miles for 65 roses: Marcent Marine runs 65 consecutive miles to raise awareness for Cystic Fibrosis

10/12/2011 By Cpl. Lucas Vega , Marine Forces Central

MANAMA, Bahrain — Thirteen years ago, Maj. Jesse Sjoberg made a promise to spend the rest of his life with a woman named Jacquelyn “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health,” as the famous wedding vow reads.

Continue reading "65 miles for 65 roses: Marcent Marine runs 65 consecutive miles to raise awareness for Cystic Fibrosis " »

October 9, 2011

Aviation support Marines fuel success in southwestern Afghanistan

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 10.09.2011

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - The Marines of Marine Wing Support Squadron 371’s fuel division are well acquainted with military aircraft.

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October 5, 2011

West Coast Marines take over Afghanistan aviation support from East Coast Marines

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 10.05.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - The gentle thump of helicopter blades wafts over a formation of Marines at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

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October 4, 2011

Combat Assault Company tears through targets

Story by Lance Cpl. Jacob Barber | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 09.16.2011
Date Posted:10.04.2011 22:54

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii — The sound of bullets piercing targets echoed through the hills as Marines from 3rd Marine Regiment’s Combat Assault Company met at the Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility to shoot and qualify with their .50-caliber machine guns and 40 mm. grenade launchers Sept. 16.

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September 29, 2011

31st MEU departs Okinawa for patrol of Asia-Pacific region

9/29/2011 By Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH, OKINAWA, Japan — With all cargo and personnel aboard, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit departed Okinawa, Japan, for its next patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Sept. 27.

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September 27, 2011

Life on a swivel

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division | Date: 09.27.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Another clearing operation means another chance to pinpoint a different perspective on deployment through the eyes Marines with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment.

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September 24, 2011

Functioning on flexibility: ‘America’s Battalion’ bolsters air-ground task force capabilities for Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 09.24.2011

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Waist-deep in a row of fighting holes, teams of sweat-starched infantrymen labored without shelter from the unforgiving desert sun. Scoop by scoop, they slung rocks and dirt from their dusty chasms, hewing out defensive positions to prepare for the enemy’s inevitable night attack.

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September 23, 2011

Wounded Marion Marine on road to recovery

by Dave Franzman :: UPDATED: 23 September 2011

MARION – A Marine who was wounded in a blast in Afghanistan in late May still has a long way to go to meet his goal of returning to duty.

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31st MEU begins boarding for next deployment

9/23/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 2,200 Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are preparing to board Navy ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, and depart within days to begin a patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.

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September 21, 2011

UAV operator guides peers toward better operation

9/21/2011 By Cpl. Justin M. Boling , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan —

Sgt. Chad John spends 12 hours a day with an aerial view of Afghanistan, but he rarely leaves the ground.

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September 19, 2011

Rehearsing for war: Marines of ‘America’s Battalion’ train for Afghan battlefield

9/19/2011 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , 3rd Battalion (3/3)

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Storming through the desert on helicopters and tracked vehicles, the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, practiced counterinsurgency operations during Exercise Clear, Hold, Build 2 at Range 210 on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., from Aug. 14 to 19.

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September 18, 2011

Marines train with Russian aircraft

By James K. Sanborn - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Sep 18, 2011 9:31:27 EDT

Marines in Arizona will soon duke it out with a crop duster and a Russian helo in a new effort to understand enemy tactics and weaponry.

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September 17, 2011

iPads now helping Marines communicate, mark targets in battle

Published: September 17, 2011

Last year the Marine Corps’ 3rd Aircraft Wing purchased 32 iPads in an effort to increase efficiency and gain an advance in aerial warfare. Now, iPads are being used in Afghanistan and save about 15 minutes of communication time during close-air missions, according to an article by DefenseNews.

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Towers and tours: Avionics Marine reflects on post-9/11 career

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 09.17.2011

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - When Douglas Acero was turning his M-16A2 rifle to the armory at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Calif., the world changed.

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Lifeline: Marine KC-130Js resupply the fight in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Justin Boling | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 09.17.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - When supplies run thin at forward operating bases peppering the Helmand River valley, reassurance often comes with the strong hum of a Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules.

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September 16, 2011

Marines volunteer at local nursing home

9/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan

KIN TOWN, OKINAWA, Japan — For almost two decades, Marines and sailors with 7th Communication Battalion have volunteered their time and energy at Hikarigaoka Nursing Home in Kin-Cho. From sweeping the parking lots, to mowing the grass or just spending the holidays with the residents of the nursing home, the service members have made a lasting impression on their local community.

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September 15, 2011

Marine Becomes ‘One Man Army’

By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Erica DiSalvo
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif., Sept. 15, 2011 – Marine Corps Sgt. Colin M. Bell, an aviation supply specialist with Aviation Logistics Squadron 16 here, beat the competition during an episode of Discovery Channel’s “One Man Army” television show that aired Sept. 2.

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September 12, 2011

Safar Bazaar's 'little mayor' a Marine on deadline

By Mandy Clark
September 12, 2011 8:32 PM

(CBS News)

SAFAR BAZAAR, Afghanistan - A year ago, Safaar Bazaar was so full of home-made bombs that U.S. forces used rocket propelled explosives to blast their way in.

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Striking at sunrise: 3/3 Kilo Marines perform platoon attacks during Enhanced Mojave Viper exercise

9/12/2011 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , Marine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Silhouetted by a burnt orange sunrise, a platoon of Marines slapped magazines into their weapons as if fueling them with adrenaline.

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Fueled by firepower: 3/3 India Marines perform company attack to prepare for Afghanistan deployment

9/12/2011 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , Marine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Tucked behind a rocky mountainside, a company of Marines spread out by platoons along its base. After a countdown, an explosion growled beyond the thick shield of rocks. As vibrations coursed through the ground, the infantrymen rushed through a breached concertina wire obstacle to begin their assault.

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'Stress Training': 3/3 Lima Company Marines prepare for enemy by solidifying clearing skills

9/12/2011 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , Marine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Crammed on narrow benches within a 26-ton steel beast, a squad of Marines jostled around as their tracked vehicle powered through the desert toward its objective.

Continue reading "'Stress Training': 3/3 Lima Company Marines prepare for enemy by solidifying clearing skills " »

The art of anti-armor warfare: 3/3 ‘Missile Marines’ prepare for enemy by shooting TOW, Javelin missiles

9/12/2011 By Cpl. Reece Lodder , Marine Corps Base Hawaii
MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Cali. — Cloaked by darkness in a silent wilderness, two teams of anti-tank missilemen itched with anticipation to reign destruction from afar.

Continue reading "The art of anti-armor warfare: 3/3 ‘Missile Marines’ prepare for enemy by shooting TOW, Javelin missiles " »

September 9, 2011

Symphony of fire: ‘America’s Battalion’ air, ground forces combine for fire support coordination exercise

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 09.09.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Translating communication into firepower from afar, Marines with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, performed a fire support coordination exercise on Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., from Aug. 5 through 7, 2011.

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Striking at sunrise: 3/3 Kilo Marines perform platoon attacks during Enhanced Mojave Viper exercise

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 09.09.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Silhouetted by a burnt orange sunrise, a platoon of Marines slapped magazines into their weapons as if fueling them with adrenaline.

Continue reading "Striking at sunrise: 3/3 Kilo Marines perform platoon attacks during Enhanced Mojave Viper exercise" »

September 8, 2011

Afghan soldiers and Lava Dogs clear Garmsir roads

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs | Date: 09.08.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — With every partnered patrol or operation the Afghan National Army conducts, their soldiers gain valuable military experience.

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Newhall native trades Hollywood for Helmand

Story by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 09.08.2011

FIRE BASE FIDDLERS GREEN, Helmand province, Afghanistan – In 2008, a Newhall, Calif., native had a dream job in Hollywood’s entertainment industry. He worked as a color assistant, editing video footage for “Desperate Housewives” and was even able to meet the cast. He loved his job and saw it as something he could do long-term. Unfortunately, things change.

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September 4, 2011

Marine creates better seat for Huey helos

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Sep 4, 2011 9:10:04 EDT

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – One enlisted Marine’s ingenuity is paying off. Sgt. Zachary Lucas, a crew chief with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, took lessons learned from the war zone and devised a seat upgrade for the Corps’ UH-1Y Huey.

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September 1, 2011

Marines push through scorching temps to provide security

Story by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 09.01.2011

NAWA DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan – Marines patrol in full gear – a combat load of ammunition, flak jackets, helmets, rifles – and many must add communications radios, extra rounds or squad automatic weapons to their loads. These items get very heavy over the course of a three- or four-hour security patrol.

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August 30, 2011

Female Marines assist in delivery of local baby

Courtesy Story | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs | Date: 08.30.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan —Sgt. LaJuanna Baker and Cpl. Andrea Moreira-Rios were in the right place at the right time on July 30.

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Barbells, Dumbbells, Kettlebells, Oh My!

Courtesy Story | Regimental Combat Team-5, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs | Date: 08.30.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Across the room from a Kevlar helmet and body armor, near an M-16 rifle and night vision goggles, sits a jug of whey protein. Outside the doorless entryway, resting against the wall, are a minesweeper and electronic countermeasure gear entangled by a recently used jump rope. Sweat-stained uniforms hang from corners of a well-used pull-up bar.

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August 28, 2011

Filling in the gaps: ‘America’s Battalion’ begins final pre-deployment training exercise

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 08.28.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Six months ago, Marines with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, began their journey toward Afghanistan with pre-deployment training on-island in Hawaii.

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CAXscaping the grind of 3/3 grunt life during Enhanced Mojave Viper: All in a ball

Story by Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 08.28.2011

Editor’s Note: This is the first installment in a series on Marines from 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, based out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay. They are preparing for war by training in the California desert. Miserable heat, grueling training and the absence of home’s amenities here make their work exhausting and their downtime precious. They labor with little and appreciate the simple. This is the grunt grind, the life of the Marine infantryman.

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Amid a dusty city of tents, two Marines unwind after a long day of training. They leisurely toss a baseball back and forth, laughing and trading jabs as the evening sun dips under a colorful sky.

Continue reading "CAXscaping the grind of 3/3 grunt life during Enhanced Mojave Viper: All in a ball" »

August 26, 2011

At Hawaii base, Biden praises service members

By Audrewy McAvoy - The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Aug 26, 2011 7:07:33 EDT

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii — Vice President Joe Biden on Thursday thanked service members in Hawaii for being among what he called “the greatest generation of warriors that the world has ever produced.”

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August 21, 2011

Alpha Battery has eyes on with overwatch

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 08.21.2011

FIREBASE SAENZ, Helmand province, Afghanistan—The Marines with Alpha Battery are keeping a watchful eye out for their brothers-in-arms in a more literal sense than one would expect from an artillery battery. The Marines in the battery’s Fire Direction Center monitor electronic chat systems and radios for any unit that needs support from the big guns, but they are not the only Marines in the Hawaii-based battery looking out for their fellow Marines.

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Washington Native prepares Marines for future

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 08.21.2011

FIREBASE SAENZ, Helmand province, Afghanistan—He’s mean, but kind at the same time; small in stature, but a bigger man then what meets the eyes. He is a softy for his daughters when they bat their angelic eyes pleading “please daddy” and a teacher for his Marines. This description, as simple it may be, depicts one of Alpha Battery’s more than capable Howitzer section chiefs: Sgt. Tyler J. Ledbetter.

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August 5, 2011

Mother of fallen Vernal Marine proud of son's sacrifice

Geoff Liesik, Vernal Express
8/5/11

Looking at the photo Tracy Beede held of her son Friday afternoon, it's hard to imagine that he was always a mama's boy.

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31st MEU brings smiles to Australian faces

8/5/2011 By Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU
Australia — Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, in Brisbane for a multi-day port visit, brought smiles to elderly patients and children during a community relations event at the Maynor Children’s Hospital, August 4.

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August 4, 2011

‘Bazaar Day’ a weekly milestone for Helmand Marines

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 08.04.2011

COMBAT OUTPOST RANKEL, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Every Tuesday, Marines aboard Combat Outpost Rankel wake up at 4 a.m. to beat thousands of Afghans to Safar Bazaar.

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August 3, 2011

Moving on up: Garmsir sees infrastructural growth as counterinsurgency expands

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 08.03.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — It’s a 600-year-old holy place: a shrine where the local people come to pray, learn about the Quran and remember family members who passed away. The roof is missing, and parts of the outer walls have started to crumble into individual bricks scattered on the ground, but the local people revere it as one of the most holy places in the area.

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August 1, 2011

Marine, Mullah partnership contributes to counterinsurgency fight

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 08.01.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — In hopes of countering insurgent dogma and improving local infrastructure, coalition forces have recently begun engaging local religious leaders to rally support for coalition forces and developmental projects in the district.

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July 30, 2011

As drawdown approaches, U.S. commanders in Afghanistan reluctant to leave

By Rajiv Chandrasekaran, Saturday, July 30, 7:23 PM

Garmser, Afghanistan — This farming district along the Helmand River, once one of the most Taliban-saturated corners of southern Afghanistan, has turned so quiet over the past three months that some U.S. Marines here quietly wish for a gunfight. “Just to get off a few rounds,” said one, “so we can feel like Marines.”

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July 29, 2011

Rest your weary head: Pillows crafted for Echo Battery

Story by Christine Cabalo | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 07.29.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii - A total of 150 Marines in Echo Battery, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, are receiving pillows in the mail while deployed in Afghanistan.

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July 27, 2011

Combat innovations multiply Marine Corps Harriers’ punch

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 07.27.2011

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- Singled out by their red helmets, ordnance Marines can be seen as the muscle of a squadron, the ones who provide weaponry and ensure each aircraft is battle ready.

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July 26, 2011

Marines, ANA give Garmsir Ramadan gift

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 07.26.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Ramadan is just a few days away and local Afghanistan National Army soldiers and Marines are joining in the holiday buzz.

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July 25, 2011

CLB 31 supports BLT 2/7, 31st MEU during TS11

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 07.25.2011

SHOALWATER BAY TRAINING AREA, Australia – Behind every combat unit, there is logistic support. For the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, there is Combat Logistics Battalion 31.

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July 21, 2011

Through the Ranks: Sergeant

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 07.21.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — A soft pink-hued glow highlights Sgt. Garrett Farris’ eyebrows, nose, cheeks and chin as he lies in his cot with a laptop resting on his stomach. On the screen, an animated horned beast falls in love with an innocent beauty.

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July 19, 2011

LA Marine learns more than local language

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 07.19.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Afghanistan — It looks like Sgt. Jose Hernandez is teaching an elementary level anatomy class, but he’s actually learning the local language. He points to a local boy’s arms, legs, ears and eyes -- naming each body part in Pashto.

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July 18, 2011

A role model for Marines

800 pay tribute to Sgt. Trevor Cook at Medina service

Monday, July 18, 2011 12:00 am
By Tom Rivers

MEDINA — Trevor Cook, a skilled crew chief and marksman, was a leader in the Marine Corps, a soldier who already amassed many medals and promotions in his seven-year career.

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Marine attack helicopters move north to aid air ambulances

7/18/2011 By Cpl. Rashaun X. James , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

FORWARD OPERATING BASE EDINBURGH, Afghanistan — Until recently, if an injured Marine needed medical evacuation from the battlefield in the turbulent northeast of Afghanistan’s Helmand province, the air ambulance providing care might not be able to assist until Marine Corps attack helicopters were on scene.

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6 Marines, 3 couples, 1 squadron: Married Marines deploy together to Afghanistan

7/18/2011 By Cpl. Samantha H. Arrington , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan —

Michael and Jessica Stedman recently celebrated their first anniversary. They also recently deployed to Afghanistan together.

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July 16, 2011

Baltimore Marine leads Kajaki in positive direction

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 07.16.2011

ORWARD OPERATING BASE FOB ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The image of most wars portrayed in the history books is that of battles in which sweaty, dirt-covered men storm beachheads and battlefields, while all that is left to read about are captivating dialogs of victory. Rarely do these books reflect on the human experience of what happens in the depths of counterinsurgency operations, in which these same men fight with their minds, guts and glory. One Baltimore native, however, has experienced this first hand and must now use all three to accomplish his mission once again.

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Missouri Marine follows in parents’ footsteps

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 07.16.2011

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The arrival of a new baby in any family inevitably causes parents and family members to huddle around the child, saying things like “Oh, he has your nose,” or “Those eyes are just like his mother’s,” or “I wonder what he’ll be when he grows up.” One Grandview, Mo., native never thought he’d grow up to be like his parents, but as fate would have it, he fell into formation right behind them

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West Virginia Marine, family man fosters pride, humility

Story by Sgt. Earnest J. Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 07.16.2011

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FOB ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Separation from family members is arguably the hardest part of deployments for service members and their loved ones. A Moundsville, W.Va., native and his family know the strain of being apart all too well, yet they have found a way to balance their challenging lifestyle through resilience and understanding

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July 13, 2011

Behind the scenes: Aircraft maintainers help Marine jets keep pressure on insurgents

7/13/2011 By Pfc. Sean Dennison , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — Unsightly sweat stains mark another Afghan day for Lance Cpl. Joseph Gonzalez, but appearances are the farthest thing from his mind. Beneath the implacable sun, it’s his charge to ensure the AV-8B Harrier in front of him is ready for take-off.

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Marine Corps UAVs get new home in Afghanistan

7/13/2011 By Cpl. Samantha H. Arrington , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan —

Marine Corps unmanned aerial vehicles have a new home at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

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July 10, 2011

Exercise Talisman Sabre begins in northern Australia

Story by Cmdr. Suzanne Lesko | Talisman Sabre 2011 | Date: 07.10.2011

ROCKHAMPTON, Australia - The start of joint United States and Australia military training exercise, Talisman Sabre 2011, was marked with a successful Open Day event at the Rockhampton showgrounds in central Queensland yesterday.

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Daily Grind. Read how our troops get their daily cup of joe

Story by Mark Doran | Talisman Sabre 2011 | Date: 07.10.2011

ROCKHAMPTON, Queensland, Australia - FIRING the main gun of an M1 Abrams was an exciting highlight of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2011 for Pvt. Jodie Gilmour from the 8th Personnel Services Team.

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July 9, 2011

Former Anoka Tornado serves in Afghanistan

News | Saturday, July 9, 2011 7:04 am by Sue Austreng |
by Sue Austreng
Staff Writer

Back at Anoka High School, Justin Powers was a cross-country skier, a soccer player, a guy who attended the STEP program and was really good at working on mechanics.

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31st MEU wows Aussies at Talisman Saber 2011 opening day

7/9/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

CAMP ROCKY, ROCKHAMPTON, Australia — Thousands of Australian citizens poured into Rockhampton Fairgrounds July 9 during the opening day for Talisman Sabre 2011.

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July 8, 2011

Marines, sailors volunteer time with local community

Story by Pfc. Daniel Valle | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 07.08.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Artillery Marines are known for receiving firing missions and supporting their fellow Marines on the front lines of battle

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'Maintenance issue' forces USS Essex back to port en route to exercise

By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: July 8, 2011

SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan — A “maintenance issue” forced the USS Essex back into port Thursday, meaning the ship, its crew and some members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit won’t be off the coast of Australia when Talisman Sabre 2011 kicks off Monday, Navy officials said Friday.

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Marines hone skills, become combat hunters

7/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — In the mid-2000s, Marines’ and sailors’ vulnerabilities were being exploited in Iraq by enemy snipers and improvised-explosive device makers. Commanders began to consider the best ways to counter attack them using more intelligent tactics rather than more technologically-advanced combat systems. In 2006, the Marine Corps sought to increase offensive spirit and to become predators, not prey - the Combat Hunter program was born.

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July 7, 2011

Marine killed in Camp Pendleton helicopter crash identified

July 7, 2011
Los Angeles Times

A Marine killed in Wednesday's helicopter crash at Camp Pendleton has been identified as Sgt. Trevor Cook, 25, a crew chief with Helicopter Squadron 369, the Marine Corps said Thursday.

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9th ESB Marines awarded, receive earned promotion

Story by Lance Cpl. Garry Welch | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 07.07.2011

AICHI, Japan - A 9th Engineer Support Battalion Marine was combat meritoriously promoted at Camp Hansen June 29 for actions performed during a recent deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom

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July 6, 2011

Helmand Marines loosen reigns on local soldiers

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 07.06.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — Punching bags and jump rope help, but you don’t really learn how to fight until you set foot in the ring.

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July 5, 2011

Yuma Marines celebrate Independence Day in Afghanistan

7/5/2011 By Pfc. Sean Dennison , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — US Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 513, deployed from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Airz., celebrated Independence Day at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, July 4

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June 28, 2011

31st MEU departs Okinawa headed to Australia

6/28/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 1,800 Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked the USS Essex (LHD 2), and USS Germantown (LSD 42), June 28, in preparation for exercise Talisman Sabre 2011 to be held in Australia.

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June 22, 2011

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.

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June 17, 2011

St. Charles County Marine awarded Distinguished Flying Cross

By Russell Korando > [email protected] STLtoday.com | Posted: Friday, June 17, 2011 4:16 pm

As a crew chief and door gunner on a UH-1Y (Huey), Bart Davis' life has literally flown by in the last eight years.

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June 15, 2011

Yuma Marine base to get new F-35 facilities

The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Jun 15, 2011 7:33:05 EDT

YUMA, Ariz. — Two new hangers and a flight simulator facility are to be built at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma to support the new F-35 joint strike fighter.

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Gen. Amos briefed by Marines of 31st MEU

6/15/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps, visited Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, June 14.

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June 9, 2011

Bomb tech's quick eye saves reporter's life

By Matt Millham
Stars and Stripes
Published: June 9, 2011

KAJAKI, Afghanistan — Just about every GI who’s been on patrol experiences a close call.

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June 3, 2011

Brother, sister in arms: Colorado Springs siblings reunite in Afghanistan

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 06.03.2011

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - When Sgt. Judy Hunziker, a maintenance administration clerk with Marine Attack Squadron 513, last saw her brother, she was on pre-deployment leave in the comfort of her hometown of Colorado Springs, Colo.

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June 2, 2011

Safar Bazaar’s ‘little mayor’ reaches Afghans

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 06.02.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan -- Lance Cpl. Robert Lemonte smiles as he patrols, at six in the morning, down the main street of the Safar Bazaar. He’s not smiling because someone told a joke; the Mansfield, Ind., native smiles because he recognizes the shop owners who are opening up for the day. He smiles because they smiled at him first.

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May 31, 2011

Marine Corps Hornets, Harriers team up for tandem operations in Afghanistan

5/31/2011 By Pfc. Sean Dennison , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — There was a different sort of roar across the southwestern Afghan skies, May 21. For the past year, Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets reigned over the airspace, providing much needed close-air support to coalition forces below.

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May 27, 2011

Marines celebrate centennial of aviation

100 years of MAGTF history began in 1912

By Gretel C. Kovach
Originally published 2:50 p.m., May 27, 2011, updated 4:14 p.m., May 27, 2011

The theme for this year’s air show at Miramar Marine Corps Air Station salutes the 100 year-history of Naval aviation. Marine aviators may belong to the Navy Department, but they have their own heritage to celebrate, beginning with Alfred A. Cunningham’s first flight in 1912.

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Americans Don’t Wait for Memorial Day to Unite in Helmand

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Pauline Franklin | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 05.27.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – At 6:50 p.m., May 25, a Marion, Iowa, Marine struck an improvised explosive device while patrolling in southern Garmser district. The infantry point man with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, was wounded and needed care, but just as the communication lines began to light up to coordinate transportation for him, a sandstorm brought it all to a halt, putting the Marine in grave danger of bleeding to death before he reached medical assistance.

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May 26, 2011

Yuma Harrier squadron starts Afghanistan combat operations

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) | Date: 05.26.2011

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- If the heat was the only indication for 100 Marines crammed into a squad bay, May 16, they may have thought they were back home at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz.

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Memorial Day; A Tribute to Peralta and the 31st MEU

5/26/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — As Memorial Day nears, it is important to look back, and think about why Memorial Day is celebrated, and who it is celebrated for.

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May 25, 2011

Marines, JASDF implement enhanced simulated air-to-air combat training

Story by Lance Cpl. Jennifer Pirante | Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni | Date: 05.25.2011

WAKUNI, Japan - Marine Aircraft Group 12’s Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 pilots launched four F/A-18D Hornet jets from the runway here May 19 to conduct ongoing simulated air-to-air combat training with elements of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. VMFA(AW)-242 wrapped up its third week of the newly implemented air to-air training with the Western Air Defense Force 8th Air Wing’s F-15J 304th and F-2A 6th JASDF Tactical Fighter Squadrons from Tsuiki Air Base.

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May 24, 2011

Marine Corps Harriers return to Afghanistan

5/24/2011 By Cpl. Samantha H. Arrington , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan —

One of the first Marine Corps Harrier squadrons to see action in Afghanistan has returned after nearly a decade.

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May 19, 2011

3/3 Marines bring different experience to AASAM

5/19/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark Stroud , Marine Forces Pacific

PUCKAPUNYAL, Australia — Marines with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, travelled here to participate in the 2011 Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting May 9 to 19.

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May 18, 2011

Marine air crews battled insurgents, terrain in Afghanistan

By Gretel C. Kovach
Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 5:37 p.m.

Massive dust storms rolled in from the desert, swallowing the entire province and grounding flights. Gummed-up engines had to be washed after each sortie, and replaced often. Pilots and crew broiled in triple-digit summer heat and froze during winter snows.

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May 12, 2011

Civilian, military forces bulldoze insurgents out of Garmsir

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 05.12.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic Afghanistan — The insurgents are getting bulldozed out of Garmsir, and not just in a matter of speaking.

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May 9, 2011

California UAV squadron takes over in southwestern Afghanistan as Carolina Marines head home

5/9/2011 By Cpl. Samantha H. Arrington , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan —

A new Marine Corps unmanned aerial vehicle squadron took responsibility for supporting Marines and coalition troops in southwestern Afghanistan with aerial surveillance, May 7.

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May 4, 2011

Through the Ranks: Private First Class

5/4/2011 By Cpl. Colby Brown , Regimental Combat Team 1

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — Quiet, muffled conversation leaks from a guard tower, but only one Marine can be seen inside. His mouth moves in sync with both sides of the discussion. He has stood in almost the same place for an hour, but his eyes have been on the move, intensely scanning. He shifts his weight to a different leg, bringing the conversation to a resolution, and pinches smokeless tobacco into his bottom lip. He’s been standing post for two hours. Pfc. Clark Kirkley has four more before he gets to “hit the rack.”

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May 1, 2011

FET: The ladies’ side of the conversation

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 05.01.2011

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan - She has long brown hair, but it’s coiled into a tight bun. Her glare burns through tactical sunglasses but somehow doesn’t betray the femininity in her mahogany colored eyes. Her M-4 rifle is slung loosely over her shoulder, and a M-9 pistol hangs from her hip.

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April 30, 2011

Coming home

Courtesy Image | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 04.30.2011
Photo by Jody Lee Smith

Friends and family welcome home U.S. Marines and sailors attached to Combat Logistics Battalion 3 on Marine Corps Air Station, April 30, 2011.

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April 29, 2011

3/3 Marine translates experience into action, earns prestigious award for intelligence work in Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece E. Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 04.29.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII - On his deployment to Afghanistan last year, Cpl. Raymond P. Weeks found little sleep but plenty of purpose.

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Recon Marines tackle jungle warfare training

4/29/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

JUNGLE WARFARE TRAINING CETER, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, engaged in jungle warfare training at the Jungle Warfare Training Center on Okinawa April 12-27.

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Prioritizing the prevalent threats: 3/3 Marines patrol to improve counter-IED measures

4/29/2011 By Cpl. Reece E. Lodder , Marine Corps Base Hawaii

MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii — On a dusty road weaving through walls of dense brush, a squad of Marines silently pushes through another patrol. Their training is far from glamorous, but it’s their forte — they've been taught, practiced, made mistakes, succeeded and repeated the process. For these frequently deployed infantrymen, breaking in their boots during training is essential for their success overseas.

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Brothers-in-arms face off in field meet

4/29/2011 By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP RODREGUIZ, Republic of Korea — Approximately 400 U.S. Marines and sailors from 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Republic of Korea Marines from 22nd Battalion, 2nd Artillery Brigade, 2nd ROK Marine Division, integrated with each other to form two bilateral teams that competed during a field meet at Camp Rodriguez, Republic of Korea, April 23.

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CLB-3 Marines return home

4/29/2011 By Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — Approximately 400 Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, returned from Afghanistan over the course of the last several days.

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April 28, 2011

Fish ponds receives Earth Day makeover

Story by Cpl. Steven Posy | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 04.28.2011

SAN DIEGO -- Whether hiking, fishing, exercising or just looking for a quiet place to observe the wilderness, the Miramar Fish Pond has all the amenities for a simple outdoor getaway.

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April 26, 2011

Missions change, goodbyes remain the same: 'Kings of Battle' Marines depart on first deployment to Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Reece E. Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 04.26.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii - Ceasing embraces with their loved ones for resolute grips on their rifles, approximately 550 Marines and sailors with 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, loaded buses from April 25-30, and departed on a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan.

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April 23, 2011

Lava Dogs bring Aloha to Afghanistan

Courtesy Story | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 04.23.2011

GARMSER DISTRICT, Helmand Province, Afghanistan — The 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment arrived here in support of Operation Enduring Freedom April 18 – 23. The Lava Dogs will be assuming responsibility of the Garmser District from 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, which is scheduled to return to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., in May.

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April 21, 2011

Catch me if you can: All-Marine runner switches uniforms, changes from humble Marine to hungry athlete

Story by Cpl. Reece E. Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 04.21.2011

On a straight stretch of asphalt surrounded by still ponds, a lone runner quietly carves out his battleground. Though he has shed his camouflage utilities for a running uniform, the lighter set of armor morphs the quiet Marine into an aggressive athlete.

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April 20, 2011

Face of Defense: Marine Coaches Youth Wrestlers

By Marine Corps Cpl. Juan D. Alfonso
Marine Forces Pacific

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii, April 20, 2011 – When people look at Master Sgt. Timothy D. Greenleaf, they see a 6-foot, bulky, tattooed Marine. What isn’t so obvious is he’s enjoyed working with children for more than 18 years.

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April 19, 2011

2/3 Marines now operating in northern Marjah

Story Posted by Dan Lamothe
April 19th, 2011

It looks like the force laydown as we know it in Helmand province, Afghanistan, is evolving.

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April 15, 2011

EOD Marines earn recognition for valor

4/15/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — An operations and training chief with 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force received an award April 7 at a ceremony here for conduct while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom.

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April 14, 2011

Nearly 300 Marines ship out to Afghanistan

Posted: Apr 14, 2011 4:08 AM CDT

KANEOHE (HawaiiNewsNow) - Nearly 300 bags lined the parking lot at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe on Wednesday. The 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment packed up for a seven month deployment in Afghanistan.

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31st MEU back in Okinawa after Cobra Gold, MAREX, Operation Tomodachi

4/14/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to Okinawa after its nearly three-month deployment of the Asia-Pacific Region, April 12.

Continue reading "31st MEU back in Okinawa after Cobra Gold, MAREX, Operation Tomodachi" »

April 11, 2011

2/3 Police Advisory Team Hones AUP Skills

Story by Sgt. Earnest Barnes | 2nd Marine Division | Date: 04.11.2011

NAWA, Afghanistan -- Choosing a career path can be an agonizing process for some, with the most difficult questions being, “What do I want to do?” and “How do I get there?” Patrolmen with the Afghan Uniformed Police in Nawa know the answer to those questions: the AUP Academy here.

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April 8, 2011

Passing on the NCO sword: MCB Hawaii Sgt. Maj. says goodbye after final tour, 30 years of service

Story by Cpl. Reece E. Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 04.08.2011

Marking the culmination of 30 years of service and the conclusion of his time at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sgt. Maj. James W. Sutton, outgoing base sergeant major, passed this NCO sword to Sgt. Maj. Robert E. Eriksson in a post and relief and retirement ceremony at Dewey Square on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, April 8, 2011.

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Last U.S. ships leave coast of disaster area

By Erik Slavin
Stars and Stripes
Published: April 8, 2011

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan – The last U.S. military ships aiding the tsunami-stricken area of Japan were preparing to leave the northern Honshu coast Friday, 7th Fleet officials said.

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Marines remain ready to respond

4/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate , Marine Corps Bases Japan

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Forward), III MEF, traveled from Sendai, Japan, to Okinawa April 5 after assisting in relief efforts for Operation Tomodachi.

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Marine ‘proud’ to help during Operation Tomodachi

4/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

SENDAI, Miyagi, Japan — Cpl. Tori K. Tadehara was a passenger in the back of a 7-ton cargo truck headed back to temporary billeting where he would be able to catch a few hours of sleep before hitting the road again.

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April 7, 2011

Marines lend a hand in Japan

Camp Pendleton-based troops push through piles of rubble to retrieve disaster victims’ family heirlooms

By Jeanette Steele
Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 9:09 p.m.

The Marines taught Cpl. Adam Shatarsky to use his field shovel to dig fighting holes.

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31st MEU conducts Operation “Field Day”

4/7/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

URANOHAMA PORT, OSHIMA ISLAND, Japan — More than 300 Marines and sailors with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, worked through rain, snow, and freezing temperatures cleaning Oshima Island during Operation “Field Day”, April 1-6.

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April 6, 2011

Pendleton Marines wield explosive new weapon system

By JOSHUA SUDOCK
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
[email protected]
Published: April 6, 2011
Updated: April 7, 2011 3:08 p.m

Marines of Battery K, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, attached to 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, perform a fire mission with the M327 120mm Expeditionary Fire Support System during a live-fire exercise, March 28.

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More isle troops headed overseas

29th Infantry soliders might be sent back to Afghanistan in 2013

By William Cole
POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Apr 06, 2011

As the nation’s military and civilian leaders debate the size of a drawdown expected to start in Afghanistan in July, record numbers of Hawaii-based troops are projected to serve in the country for years to come.

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April 5, 2011

U.S. friends dig deep for isolated island / Cut off after the tsunami tore up its port, Oshima gets lifeline from Operation Tomodachi

Apr. 5, 2011
Kentaro Nakajima and Koichi Nakamura / Yomiuri Shimbun Staff Writer and Photographer

KESENNUMA, Miyagi--Restoration work on Oshima island, located off Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, has suffered significant setbacks because ships have struggled to dock at the island's completely devastated port.

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April 4, 2011

Marine bases burst with bottled water

Story by Sgt. Jesse Stence | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 04.04.2011

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan - In the open desert outside the villages, Helmand province can be as dry as the desert Charlton Heston crawled through in "The Ten Commandments."

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April 3, 2011

Japan's Road to Recovery: III MEF CG visits island of Oshima

4/3/2011 By Cpl. Megan Angel , III MEF

OSHIMA ISLAND, Japan — OSHIMA ISLAND, Japan – Three weeks after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Tokyo and set off a devastating tsunami March 11, affected Japanese citizens are still rummaging through the remains of their homes, neighborhoods and towns.

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31st MEU helps aid isolated island of Oshima

4/3/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

OSHIMA, Japan — Approximately 170 Marines and Sailors from Company G, Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left the USS Essex (LHD 2) beginning Operation Field Day in support of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force, April 1.

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April 1, 2011

U.S. to scale back participation in annual exercise in Philippines

By Travis J. Tritten
Stars and Stripes
Published: April 1, 2011

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — The U.S. military will scale back participation in its annual joint exercise with the Philippines due to ongoing relief efforts in Japan, Marine Corps and Navy officials said Friday.

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March 31, 2011

Operation Watchtower: Fox Company searches for insurgents, finds peace

Story by Sgt. Jesse Stence | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 03.31.2011

As night descended, the desert turned cold, and silhouettes gathered within the walls of Patrol Base Husker. The light of a near full moon revealed brambles of concertina wire atop the walls, and gave the bulky rows of combat packs a thin, nocturnal lining. The Marines - tucked into sleeping bags along the rows -murmured premonitions about the coming days.

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U.S., Japanese Counterparts Restore Devastated Airport in Sendai

Video by Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.31.2011

U.S. service members and their Japanese counterparts have been working around the clock to restore the Sendai airport after the devastating earthquake and tsunami struck the area in early March.

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March 30, 2011

1 dead, 3 injured in Marine helicopter in Oahu bay

Mar. 30, 2011 5:21 PM ET

HONOLULU (AP) — A Marine Corps helicopter crashed during an emergency landing in the shallow water of Hawaii's Kaneohe Bay, killing one Marine on board and injuring three others after they had set out on an evening training exercise, the military said Wednesday.

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Roller derby knocks ‘em out

Story by Lance Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 03.30.2011

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - They have names like “Isabelle Ringer,” “Steely Jan” and “Slamurai.” They don’t typically respond to their legal names.

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Marines, Japanese counterparts work to restore Sendai Airport

Story by Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.30.2011

SENDAI AIRPORT, Japan – A few weeks ago, the third floor terminal of the Sendai International Airport was bustling with business. Now, nearly three weeks after the devastating earthquake and tsunami struck the area, it has become home for hundreds of service members working to clear debris and restore the airport as part of Operation Tomodachi.

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March 29, 2011

3rd MLG supports Operation Tomodachi

Story by Lance Cpl. Matthew Denny | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.29.2011

NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan -- Marines with 3rd Marine Logistics Group combined forces with III Marine Expeditionary Brigade Aviation Command Element as an Arrival/Departure Airfield Control Group to support Operation Tomodachi, March 29.

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1 Marine dies, 3 injured in Kaneohe Bay crash

By Rob Shikina and Gregg Kakesako
Star-Advertiser Staff
POSTED: 07:49 p.m. HST, Mar 29, 2011

Crews are working this afternoon to drain a fuel tank that detached from a Marine Corps helicopter that crashed in shallow water last night in Kaneohe Bay, killing one Marine and inijuring three others.

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General: Military taking precautions to protect troops from radiation

By Seth Robson
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 29, 2011

TOKYO, Japan — The U.S. military constantly is monitoring radiation levels in Sendai to ensure its troops are not receiving dangerous doses of radiation from the crippled Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant, the commander of the American military effort said Monday night.

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March 28, 2011

USMC spirit fills Feeding America

3/28/2011 By Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot , Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

SAN DIEGO — Marines from Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, helped Feeding America San Diego open its new warehouse March 25.

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Relics of Defeat: Marines uncover insurgent caches

Story by Sgt. Jesse Stence | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 03.28.2011

MARJAH, Afghanistan - Like tomb raiders, the Marines unearth the deadly treasures of those who no longer rule Helmand province. Scouring dry creek beds and abandoned compounds, they collect caches of AK-47s, Soviet era grenades and homemade explosives buried by the Taliban.

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March 27, 2011

Isolated Island receives food, water, power with 31st MEU, PHIBRON 11 visit

3/27/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

OSHIMA, Japan — Two U.S. Navy landing craft carrying Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, as well as disaster relief supplies and Japanese electrical utility trucks, arrived in Oshima Island, March 27.

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Marines begin Operation Field Day

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.27.2011

EAST MATSUSHIMA, Japan -Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force transported supplies to Oshima Island near the city of Sendai March 27 for use in Operation Field Day, a clean-up project led by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.

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March 26, 2011

MWSS-373, Royal Air Force celebrate coalition partnership

Story by Cpl. Rashaun X. James | 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs | Date: 03.26.2011

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - As part of Operation Rawhide II, an initiative intended to interdict and disrupt enemy activity along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 was tasked with building forward arming and refueling points near the city of Bahram Cha, Afghanistan.

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Marines provide showers for displaced residents

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.26.2011

EAST MATSUSHIMA, Japan - Marines and sailors attached to 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (Forward) moved equipment and personnel to the Ooshiro Community Center here today to install shower facilities for residents here who have been without heat and water in the aftermath of the devastating 9.0 earthquake and tsunami that struck mainland Japan on March 11.

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3rd MarDiv exemplifies Corps’ readiness during Operation Tomodachi

Story by Cpl. Megan Angel | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.26.2011

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan – The Marine Corps is known for being uniquely trained, equipped and organized to maintain a constant state of global readiness and the ability to plan and mobilize for any ship-to-shore operation within a matter of hours.

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Marines in Sendai pushing for larger role in relief effort

By Travis J. Tritten
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 26, 2011

SENDAI, Japan — A group of excited young Japanese girls jumped and shouted to 1st Lt. Sean McMahon, “Sign it! Sign it!”

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31st MEU continues relief efforts in Japan

3/26/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, Off the coast of Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit continues relief efforts off the northeast coast of Honshu in support of Operation Tomodachi, March 25.

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Information cell coordinates relief efforts

3/26/2011 By Gunnery Sgt. Leo A. Salinas , Marine Corps Bases Japan

SENDAI, Japan — Japanese and U.S. military personnel have assembled a team to help coordinate relief and recovery efforts and better facilitate distribution of supplies to those affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

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March 25, 2011

HASTs mission determines need

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.25.2011

Humanitarian Assistance Survey Teams, III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), are in Japan to assist in planning humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations following the March 11 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami.

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Operation Tomodachi continues III MEF, MCBJ supporting relief efforts

3/25/2011 By Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher , Marine Corps Bases Japan

OKINAWA, Japan — III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Bases Japan are continuing to actively provide support to Operation Tomodachi on mainland Japan.

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March 24, 2011

Marines Aid Secluded Japanese Towns

Residents Facing Freezing Temperatures

By Joshua Philipp
Epoch Times Staff
Created: Mar 24, 2011

Marine helicopters sweep along the coast of northern Japan in search of secluded towns and villages in need of aid. With residents lacking clean water and facing freezing temperatures at night, the Marine’s arrival in each area brings welcomed supplies to those left in the cold.

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Marines help clear out Sendai Airport after tsunami

By Travis J. Tritten
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 24, 2011

SENDAI, Japan — Tsuyoshi Sato stood at the Sendai Airport fuel farm Thursday evening as a crew of Marines used heavy chains and a military tow truck to pull a car from a one-story pile of debris.

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Face of Defense: Marine Finds Way to Help Tsunami Victims

By Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher
Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP COURTNEY, Japan, March 24, 2011 – Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Yamile Brito is proving the truth of former President John F. Kennedy’s statement that “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.”

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MWCS-18, HMM-265 support relief efforts

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.24.2011

NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan - Marines assigned to Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force provided much-needed support to Marines and sailors, as well as Japanese counterparts in Sendai March 23.

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March 23, 2011

'Evils Eyes' DET keeps birds flying high

Story by Cpl. Christopher O'Quin | 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 03.23.2011

USS GREEN BAY, At Sea – For more than 50 years, Marines and sailors with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced) have proven they can operate in the far reaches of the globe, from the jungles of Vietnam to the mountains of Afghanistan

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March 22, 2011

Missing Marine found dead

March 22, 2011 8:30 AM
BY JAMES GILBERT - SUN STAFF WRITER

The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the body of Cpl. Joshua Barron, who was reported missing last week, has been recovered from a canal.

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Mojave nightmare: VMA-513 completes final workup to Afghanistan

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison
March 22, 2011

Sunlight covers the desert expanse while vehicle convoys create walls of dust in the distance. Marines carry energy drinks and chow in one hand while using the other to sling their rifles over their shoulder. The sky is littered with aircraft at most hours of the day, and things that go bump in the night are actually the sounds of far-off artillery blasts.

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31st MEU stays safe during relief mission

3/22/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX AT SEA — As the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit helps conduct humanitarian assistance missions off the northeast coast of Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi, officials are careful to check equipment and personnel coming back to the ship for possible low-level radioactive contamination.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force supports Japan’s efforts to rebuild

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.22.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Humanitarian Assistance Survey Teams made up of Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force conducted surveys in the city of Higashimatsushima in Miyagi Prefecture, March 22, to determine the extent of damages from a tsunami that struck after a 9.0-magnitude earthquake March 11.

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Marines deliver relief supplies to Japanese affected by earthquake and tsunami

3/22/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

MIYAKO, Japan — As a group of 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters made their way along the northeast Japanese coast March 21, the destruction caused by the recent 9.0 earthquake and following tsunami became apparent.

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March 21, 2011

Radio to Recon: 3rd Radio Battalion stands up recon capabilities

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Main | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 03.14.2011
Date Posted: 03.21.2011 19:47

MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii — In the black of night two teams of six Marines sprinted into the ocean in rubber boats. Their mission — paddle 1,500 meters against pounding waves and release two reconnaissance swimmers to scout out a landing point.

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31ST MEU moves to the east coast of Japan, delivers aid via helo

3/21/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, off the coast of Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, with a combined total of more than 4,000 Marines and Sailors, transited to the east coast of mainland Japan March 20.

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Operation Tomodachi continues: III MEF Marines, sailors continue supporting relief efforts in Japan

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.21.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - III Marine Expeditionary Force is continuing to actively provide support to Operation Tomodachi on mainland Japan.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force continues bilateral survey mission

Courtesy Story | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs | Date: 03.21.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Yesterday, Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) Humanitaraian Assistance Survey Teams conducted patrols in Matsushima and the Ofunato Port to determine the extent of damages from a tsunami that struck after a 9.0-magnitude earthquake March 11.

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March 19, 2011

III Marine Expeditionary Force continues to provide aid to mainland Japan

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.19.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – III Marine Expeditionary Force aircraft and personnel continue to support relief efforts in Japan, moving personnel, supplies and equipment from Okinawa to mainland Japan, March 19.

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March 18, 2011

31ST MEU ARRIVES OFF THE WEST COAST OF JAPAN

3/18/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, off the coast of Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, with a combined total of more than 4,000 Marines and Sailors, arrived off of the west coast of mainland Japan March 18, after a major earthquake and following tsunami caused extensive destruction to northeast Japan one week ago.

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MCAS Futenma proves critical during III MEF HA/DR effort

3/18/2011 By 1st Lt. John D. Norton , Marine Corps Bases Japan

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa, Japan — Marine Corps Air Station Futenma has proven to be a critical asset in III Marine Expeditionary Force’s support to the humanitarian assistance/disaster relief efforts on mainland Japan following the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami which took place March 11, according to the station’s commanding officer Col. Dale M. Smith.

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March 17, 2011

31st MEU inserts to begin helping with Japan relief operations

3/17/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco, 31st MEU

SEA OF JAPAN — Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left the flight deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2) to establish a forward command center for the unit, March 17.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force continues to support relief effort

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.17.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Marines stationed at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, departed today bound for Yamagata, Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi.

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U.S. military delivers 40 tons of supplies to hardest-hit areas

By John Rabiroff
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 17, 2011

SEOUL — U.S. military personnel have delivered 40 tons of supplies to the hardest-hit areas of Japan, as humanitarian aid continues in the face of an ever-increasing threat from the failing Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant.

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March 16, 2011

Fuel shortage threatens to slow rescuers

By Charlie Reed
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 16, 2011

SENDAI, Japan — More than 4,000 tsunami survivors were still stranded along the pulverized coastline east of here Wednesday, and the region’s dwindling supply of gasoline began threatening rescue efforts and fueling a new sense of panic in the city.

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3rd RAD Det 3 returns from Korea

Story by Lance Cpl. Vanessa American Horse | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 03.16.2011

A total of 40 signal intelligence and support Marines from Detachment 3 returned from their two-month deployment to the Republic of Korea in support of exercise Winter Surge March 16. This was the first time in 16 years a detachment from 3rd Radio Battalion has provided support to the Korean peninsula.

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USMC survey teams deliver aid to Sendai

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.16.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Humanitarian Assistance Survey Teams from III Marine Expeditionary Force surveyed heavily damaged areas today in Sendai, Japan, delivered much-needed water supplies and assisted the Government of Japan in coordinating relief efforts during Operation Tomodachi.

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March 15, 2011

Lassie 2.0

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 03.15.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — With noses to the ground and tails in the air in a combat zone, Marine bomb sniffing dogs bring yet another asset to the table in the fight against improvised explosive devices.

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‘Marines do not bleed’: Military operations change Afghan perception in southern Helmand

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 2nd Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 03.15.2011

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- “Marines do not bleed. They do not eat, they do not sleep. They are not human.”

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Red Cross Website Links Japan-based Troops to Home

By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 15, 2011 – In the wake of Japan’s massive earthquake and tsunami, Red Cross officials are encouraging U.S. service members and families posted there to register with an online resource intended to keep family and friends back home informed of their welfare.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force supports Japanese recovery efforts

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.15.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – The III Marine Expeditionary Force Marines continue to conduct coordination with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Northeastern Army at Camp Sendai that will enable resources to flow to the disaster area.

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CLB-3 continues supporting, improving southern Helmand as redeployment draws near

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 2nd Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 03.15.2011

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Nearly 30 days from redeploying, the Marines of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) continue to conduct development projects and provide logistics support to various units operating in southwestern Afghanistan.

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March 14, 2011

31st MEU headed for Japan coast prepared to assist

3/14/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU

PHILIPPINE SEA — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard three ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, is heading towards the coast of mainland Japan and is expected to arrive March 16 in support of Operation Tomodachi, after a major earthquake and following tsunami Friday.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force provides support to those affected by tsunami

Story by Lindsay Pirek | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.14.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force continue to provide support for foreign humanitarian assistance operations from Okinawa to mainland Japan. The operation, known as Tomodachi, means “friends” in Japanese, and was chosen by Japan.

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March 13, 2011

Marines assist after disaster strikes Japan

Staff report
Posted : Sunday Mar 13, 2011 13:32:56 EDT

Marine forces in Japan are delivering food, water and other supplies to assist in disaster-relief efforts following the massive earthquake and tsunami that devastated the region Friday.

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III Marine Expeditionary Force continues humanitarian assistance mission

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.13.2011

OKINAWA, Japan – Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force are actively providing support for foreign humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in mainland Japan. The operation, known as Tomodachi, means “friends” in Japanese, and was chosen by Japan.

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U.S. Navy steps up earthquake relief efforts in Japan

By Erik Slavin
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 13, 2011

NAVAL AIR STATION ATSUGI, Japan — The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group delivered four drops of humanitarian supplies Sunday and began ongoing support of Japanese search-and-rescue helicopters, U.S. 7th Fleet officials said Sunday afternoon.

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III MEF continues relief efforts in support of Operation Tomodachi

3/13/2011 By Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. , III MEF

MARINE CORPS BASES, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) are supporting Government of Japan-led humanitarian aid/disaster relief operations in mainland Japan following the 8.9 magnitude earthquake and the subsequent tsunami that struck northern Japan March 11.

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March 12, 2011

Japan-based Marines move to provide aid

Staff report
Posted : Saturday Mar 12, 2011 11:26:25 EST

Marine forces in Japan are readying aircraft and supplies to assist in disaster-relief efforts following the massive earthquake and tsunami that devastated the region Friday, officials said in a news release.

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U.S. military, aid teams headed for Japan

Navy ships, Marine forces and non-governmental relief teams are being dispatched to the disaster-stricken areas of Japan to provide humanitarian assistance and to search for survivors.

By Ken Dilanian, Washington Bureau
March 12, 2011, 8:59 a.m.

Reporting from Washington --
U.S. Navy ships and aircraft were converging on disaster-stricken Japan Saturday, while the main U.S. aid agency dispatched two urban search-and-rescue teams to help look for trapped survivors.

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Where Minds Meet: FET bridges gap between Western, Afghan culture

3/12/2011 By Sgt. Jesse Stence , Regimental Combat Team 1

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — Sgt. Meredith Burns has fielded numerous questions about females in combat since she deployed to Afghanistan as 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment’s Female Engagement team leader nearly six months ago.

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March 11, 2011

‘Warhorses’ support fast-roping, medevac rehearsals

Story by Lance Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 03.11.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. - The radio reconnaissance Marines were sweat-drenched and hobbling by the time they disembarked the CH-53E “Super Stallion.” The Marines had good reason to be exhausted after more than four hours of fast-roping and repelling training.

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Patrols get 1/3 ready to work with ANA soldiers

3/11/2011 By Lance Cpl. Sarah Anderson , Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Marines from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, put their last three weeks’ worth of training to the test with a patrol accompanied by Afghan role players March 8, 2011. Their actions were assessed by members of the Advisor Training Group.

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Military Gears Up to Help Japan

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2011 – U.S. forces are swinging into action to assist Japan in the wake of a magnitude 8.9 earthquake that struck early this morning.

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Navy sends 8 ships to provide tsunami relief

By Sam Fellman - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Mar 11, 2011 2:55:35 EST

Eight warships are headed to Japan to render disaster relief in the wake of a catastrophic magnitude 8.9 earthquake that left hundreds dead Friday. The quake unleashed a tsunami that is tearing across the Pacific. It unmoored two subs and is forcing other ships to get underway or ease their lines as the surge waters arrive, according to updates posted on official Navy Facebook pages across the region.

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Marine Bases Japan spared by earthquake

U.S. Forces prepare for humanitarian relief operations

By James K. Sanborn and Gidget Fuentes - Staff writers
Posted : Friday Mar 11, 2011 11:49:11 EST

What is being called Japan’s largest earthquake in 100 years struck the country’s main island Friday afternoon, but the effect on Marine installations was minimal, according to a Headquarters Marine Corps spokesman.

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31st MEU to participate in ASEAN Regional Forum Disaster Relief Exercise

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.11.2011

USS HARPERS FERRY – Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the USS Harpers Ferry, are scheduled to participate in the Association of Southeastern Asian Nations Regional Forum Disaster Relief Exercise, March 14 – 18. The multilateral exercise will take place in Indonesian territorial waters.

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III MHG gets Combat Operations Center

3/11/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP COURTNEY, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, trained with a new Combat Operations Center here March 1. The COC uses equipment standardized across the Marine Corps.

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March 10, 2011

3rd Intel supports Winter Surge

Story by Cpl. Rebekka Heite | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.10.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Marines with 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, recently returned from U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, Republic of Korea, where they participated in Operation Winter Surge 2011, a combined, joint event conducted by the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and ROK and U.S. Marines

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Biometrics becomes next battlefield in War on Terror

Story by Pfc. Mark Stroud | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.10.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Terrorists concealed within a civilian population are a prevalent enemy of Operation Enduring Freedom. Veiled behind a cloak of anonymity, they strike and then recede back into the shadows disappearing once more into the local populace.

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2nd MAW (Fwd) assumes aviation combat responsibilities in Afghanistan from 3rd MAW (Fwd)

3/10/2011 By Lance Cpl. Samantha H. Arrington , 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd.) accepted responsibility of coalition air combat efforts in the Regional Command Southwest area of operations from 3rd MAW (Fwd.) in a transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, March 9.

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March 8, 2011

MAG-39 supports Read Across America

Story by Lance Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 03.08.2011
Date Posted: 03.08.2011 13:16

VISTA, Calif. - Lance Cpl. Micheal Hollar patiently answered interview questions for young students. He told them his name, his job and even gave them his mailing address so they could be pen pals. The 2nd-grade students struggled to form the correct words in large block letters, but treated the interview with awe-struck reverence.

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Golden on the green side: 1/3 corpsman named MARFORPAC Sailor of the Year

Story by Cpl. Reece E. Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 03.08.2011

Cramped in a decrepit room within the stark, gray halls of the aged 3rd Marines’ Regimental Aid Station, a quiet hospital corpsman diligently attends to his duties. Though the uncomfortable mid-day mugginess plagues his office, Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Jenkins works comfortably, his brow remaining untouched by sweat.

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March 5, 2011

SWAPPING SHIPS--MARINES TRANSFER MID-DEPLOYMENT

3/5/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit switched naval vessels as they disembarked from the USS Denver (LPD 9) and embarked aboard the USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) in port, March 5.

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March 4, 2011

US warships arrive at Crete in Libya buildup

The Associated Press
Published: Friday, Mar. 4, 2011 - 1:38 pm

ATHENS, Greece -- Two vessels carrying 1,300 U.S. Marines docked Friday at an American base on Crete as part of a military build up around Libya, the U.S. Navy said.

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MASS-2 takes on Lava Viper

Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.04.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Nearly two dozen Marines from the Marine Air Support Squadron 2, Marine Air Control Group 18, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, recently participated in the Lava Viper 2011 exercise here.

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EOD Marines honor fallen comrades with memorial wall

Story by Lance Cpl. Heather Choate | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.04.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, put the finishing touches on a memorial wall to honor members of the unit who lost their lives in combat five years ago

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Peninsula exercise displays readiness

Story by Lindsay Pirek | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.04.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Approximately 750 Marines from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, manned their battle stations 24 hours a day, simulating the command and control of a large-scale conflict, during Exercise Key Resolve 2011 here Feb. 28.

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March 3, 2011

Marines, Sailors conclude training in Cambodia

3/3/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch, 31st MEU

Marines, Sailors conclude training in Cambodia — Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit successfully ended training exercises with the Cambodian military during a ceremony held March 1.

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March 2, 2011

Marines stimulate economy at Afghan bazaar

Story by Sgt. Jesse Stence | Regimental Combat Team 1 | Date: 03.02.2011

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan - As long as there is daylight at Patrol Base Jaker, the feistiest merchants of Khalaj Bazaar stand outside the gate, ceaselessly advertising kabobs and energy drinks in their shrill, pre-pubescent voices.

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February 25, 2011

Unit, Personal, Family Readiness Program supports Marines, sailors

2/25/2011 By Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — “When my dad was a grunt in the Marine Corps several years ago, he was gone all the time,” said Tolondra Johnson, family readiness officer with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. During these absences, her entire family struggled, she added.

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31ST MEU TO PARTICIPATE IN CAMBODIA MARITIME EXERCISE

2/25/2011
31st MEU Capt. Caleb D. Eames
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
Public Affairs Office

USS ESSEX, off the coast of the Kingdom of Cambodia —

Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the USS Essex (LHD 2), are scheduled to participate in the Cambodian Maritime Exercise, Feb. 27 – March 2.

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MP support company takes on field exercise

Story by Cpl. Daniel Flynn | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.25.2011

More than 50 Marines from Military Support Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, recently participated in a two-week training evolution here.

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Corpsmen, Japanese officers learn together

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Vernaza | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.25.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - Corpsmen with 3rd Medical Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and officers with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force from mainland Japan, concluded a week-long evolution where they practiced tactical combat casualty care, Feb. 17.

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EOD Marines conduct basic demolition range

2/25/2011 By Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, conducted a two-day basic demolition training package for junior Marines and sailors in the battalion.

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February 24, 2011

‘Gun Doctor’ Keeps Howitzers Firing

By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland
Marine Corps Bases Japan

HIJUDAI TRAINING AREA, Japan, Feb. 24, 2011 – People who feel under the weather see a doctor. If a dog isn’t feeling well, a visit to the veterinarian is in order. If an M777 howitzer is on the fritz, Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Rivera is the man to call.

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February 23, 2011

Tracks tear up MCB Hawaii ponds for endangered birds: Environmental, AAVs team up for 29th annual Mud Ops

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 02.23.2011

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii - The spinning tracks of amphibious assault vehicles pierced still waters and sent mud flying as they tore up the Nuupia Ponds Wildlife Management Area during the annual Mud Ops exercise on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Feb. 22 to 24.

Continue reading "Tracks tear up MCB Hawaii ponds for endangered birds: Environmental, AAVs team up for 29th annual Mud Ops" »

February 22, 2011

CLB-3 generator mechanics ensure success on battlefield

2/22/2011 By Cpl. Daniel H. Woodall , Combat Logistics Battalion-3

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — Whether deployed or in garrison, Marines require electrical power to maximize their operational efficiency. Lightweight, tactical generators provide Marines with a mobile power source that they can rely on.

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Isle Marines' success in Afghanistan praised

By William Cole
POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Feb 22, 2011

The head of the Marine Corps told Kaneohe Bay Marines that the area they have operated in on recent deployments, the Nawa district in Helmand province, has become the "poster child for how things have gone well in Afghanistan."

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February 21, 2011

Maritime Contingency Force remains ready

2/21/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

ABOARD THE USNS JACK LUMMUS — CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters broke the silence of the early morning hours as they soared toward a ship refusing to comply with orders of the U.S. Navy.

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February 18, 2011

9th ESB departs for Forest Light

2/18/2011 By Cpl. Justin R. Wheeler , Marine Corps Bases Japan

NAHA MILITARY PORT, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, boarded a High Speed Vessel and departed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni to begin Exercise Forest Light Feb. 15.

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New M-ATV training requirements keeps Marines safe, ready

2/18/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, received training on the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle at the III MEF Motor Transportation Training and Simulation Center Feb. 11, in preparation for an upcoming deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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February 17, 2011

Cobra Gold 2011 ends

Story by Staff Sgt. Matthew Winstead | United States Army Alaska | Date: 02.17.2011

CAMP ERAWAN, Thailand — Soldiers from the Alaska-based 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment stood beside members of the Royal Thai Army’s 3-31st Infantry Regiment, Kings Guard for a ceremony marking the official end of training for Exercise Cobra Gold 2011 here.

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February 15, 2011

CLB-3’s ‘Metal Man’: Marine uses welding skills to improve Helmand province

2/15/2011 By Cpl. Daniel H. Woodall , Combat Logistics Battalion-3

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — A generator’s hum followed by an intense flash of light means only one thing to the Marines of Combat Logistics Battalion 3’s Engineer Company: Lance Cpl. Jesse G. Mudd is working.

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February 14, 2011

Marines conduct mock helo-raid during Cobra Gold 2011

Story by Staff Sgt. Leo Salinas | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.13.2011
Date Posted: 02.14.2011 01:22

SAMESAN, Thailand - U.S. and Royal Thai Marines were inserted by CH-46E Sea Knights and CH-53E Super Stallions to conduct a mock helicopter raid here Feb. 11, during Exercise Cobra Gold 2011.

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February 13, 2011

Thai forces, 31st MEU conduct raid from air

2/13/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

SAMESAN, Kingdom of Thailand — The Marines hymn describes the Marine Corps ability to “fight our countries battles in the air on land and sea.” The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, has been training to ensure the Marine Corps retains the ability to do just that.

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February 12, 2011

Lt. Dan Band returns to MCB Hawaii with tools to DSTRESS

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 02.12.2011

Illuminating Hangar 103 with equal doses of energy, hits and charisma, Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band returned to Marine Corps Base Hawaii for a United Service Organizations-sponsored concert, Feb. 11, 2011.

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February 11, 2011

Royal Thai, U.S. Marines conduct mechanized raid from the sea

2/11/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

AAV CAMP, Kingdom of Thailand — Throughout its history, the Marine Corps has been known for its ability to strike from the sea anywhere in the world in a moment’s notice. In order to uphold that expectation, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit trains for mechanized raids, amphibious landings and a variety of other missions throughout the world to ensure its readiness.

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Face of Defense: Mother, Son Serve Together

Courtesy Story | Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs | Date: 02.11.2011

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - It was 4 a.m. when she settled in to watch the Pittsburgh Steelers play the Green Bay Packers. Technically, it was Super Bowl Monday for her.

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Meet top athletes during Swamp Romp Expo

Story by Christine Cabalo | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 02.11.2011

Before gearing up for the muddy race, take down a few fitness tips from three top Hawaii athletes during the Swamp Romp Expo Feb. 25.

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Marine engineers complete repairs to most heavily-trafficked route in Helmand province

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 02.11.2011

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Approximately 40 combat engineers and engineer equipment operators with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), completed repairs to more than 10 miles of roadway in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, Feb. 3.

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Engineer Marines begin civil development projects in Durzay

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 02.11.2011

DURZAY, Afghanistan - Following a recent, large-scale military operation in Durzay, Marines are beginning to conduct civil development projects in an effort to improve transportation and security for military units and Afghan civilians in the rural, southern Helmand village.

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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.

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February 10, 2011

Amos’ inaugural visit to MCB Hawaii

Story by Lance Cpl. Vanessa American Horse | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 02.10.2011

From pay freezes to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps addressed several newsworthy issues during a visit here Feb. 10.

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Engineering, medical projects press forward in Thailand during Cobra Gold 2011

Story by 2nd Lt. Scott Sasser and 2nd Lt. Scott Sasser | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.10.2011

UTAPAO, Kingdom of Thailand – Maps line the walls here in a building recently converted into the Combined Joint Civil Military Operations Task Force combat operations center as Marines and sailors support the eight engineering and nine medical civic action projects being conducted throughout Thailand as part of Exercise Cobra Gold 2011.

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February 8, 2011

Gun team exhibits M777 howitzer capabilities

2/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , Marine Corps Bases Japan

HIJUDAI TRAINING AREA, Japan — The Marines of Gun Team 2, Bravo Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, exhibited the capabilities of the M777 howitzer to more than 50 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members here Feb. 3.

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Tip of the spear in Thailand: 31st MEU arrives for Cobra Gold 2011

2/8/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

HAT YAO BEACH, Kingdom of Thailand — Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived in the Kingdom of Thailand Feb. 7 in preparation for the MEU’s participation in exercise Cobra Gold 2011, Feb. 7-18.

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February 7, 2011

Local grad takes on Marine mission in Middle East

Published February 07 2011

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Sorina Langer returned late last year from Afghanistan where the mission included building relationships as well as dodging bullets.

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Marines, Sailors of the 31st MEU watch Super Bowl 45 aboard USS Essex

2/7/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, off the coast of the Kingdom of Thailand — More than 150 Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11 crowded into the mess deck of the USS Essex (LHD 2), to watch the Super Bowl 45 before the start of exercise Cobra Gold 2011, Feb.7.

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February 4, 2011

31st MEU leaves for spring float

Story by Lance Cpl. Garry Welch | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.04.2011

With cargo and personnel aboard ship, III Marine Expeditionary Force’s 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left Okinawa, Japan, for their spring deployment throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Jan. 29.

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3rd Recon Marines learn techniques of predator

2/4/2011 By Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with Company B, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, recently began a combat hunter course hosted by instructors from the School of Infantry West.

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Show and Tell: Gun team exhibits M777 howitzer capabilities

Story by Lance Cpl. Jovane Holland | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.04.2011

OKINAWA, Japan - The Marines of Gun Team 2, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, exhibited the capabilities of the M777 howitzer to more than 50 Japanese Ground Self Defense Force service members here Feb. 3.

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III MEF Marines train on new optics: Acquire targets fast, accurately with new M240G optics system

Story by Pfc. Mark Stroud | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.04.2011

CAMP SCHWAB, Japan - III Marine Expeditionary Force Marines recently had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the Marine Corps’ new SU-260/P Machine Gun Day Optic and Ruggedized Miniature Reflex Sight for the M240G medium machine gun.

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February 3, 2011

'Flying Tigers' retract claws; 'Ironhorse' assumes heavy-lift responsibility

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 02.01.2011
Date Posted:02.03.2011 05:41

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – The Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 “Flying Tigers” transferred responsibilities to HMH-461 “Ironhorse” during a Transfer of Authority ceremony here Feb. 1.

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February 2, 2011

Halfway Home: Motor transport Marines keep on truckin’

2/2/2011 By Cpl. Paul D. Zellner , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — As they reach the halfway point in their deployment, Marines with Motor Transport Companies A and B, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), continue to deliver supplies to units in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.

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February 1, 2011

3/12 Prepares for artillery training

2/1/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , III MEF

HIJUDAI TRAINING AREA, Japan — Approximately 180 Marines from 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force are scheduled to conduct artillery training here Feb. 1-19, as part of the Artillery Relocation Training Program.

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January 30, 2011

31st MEU departs for tour of Asia-Pacific

1/30/2011 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — With cargo and personnel aboard ship, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left Okinawa, Japan for a patrol of the Asia-Pacific Region, Jan. 29.

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January 29, 2011

CFR gets fired-up for TRT training

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.29.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Sometimes, the hardest line of work is the one where not doing your job is a good thing.

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Corps’ first armed tanker supports grunts

Weaponized Hercules trolls Afghan skies

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Jan 29, 2011 8:52:47 EST

The Marine Corps now has a KC-130J Hercules tanker trolling the skies over southern Afghanistan — armed to the teeth. Just three months into its first deployment it is already credited with saving lives on the ground and providing invaluable intelligence.

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January 28, 2011

III Marine Expeditionary Force corpsman strives to help others during Cobra Gold 2011

Story by Lance Cpl. Matthew Denny | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 01.27.2011
Date Posted:01.28.2011 02:17

MTA PHOU, Kingdom of Thailand – Petty Officer 2nd Class Andrew Smith is one of many service members traveling to rural communities in the Kingdom of Thailand to treat locals unable to travel to distant hospitals as part of the medical civic actions programs taking place during Exercise Cobra Gold 2011.

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Marine recounts time with female engagement team

Story by Pfc. Sean Dennison
January 28, 2011

To quote the Rolling Stones, "Cool, calm and collected," that's the impression Lance Cpl. Sorina Langer, base operations flight clearance clerk, gives off when talking to her. Who would guess, listening to her soft voice and watching her movements, that she was a previous member of a Female Engagement Team?

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Artillerymen honor St. Barbara

1/28/2011 By Lance Cpl. Michael Iams , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — The Marines of 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, hosted their annual St. Barbara celebration at the Butler Officers’ Club Jan. 15. Enlisted service members, officers, distinguished guests and their families gathered together for a night of entertainment and commemoration of the patron saint of artillery.

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January 25, 2011

‘Heavy Haulers’ and HST flex their muscle

Story by Lance Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 01.25.2011

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Marines from Helicopter Support Team, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, partnered with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, the “Heavy Haulers,” to practice external cargo lifts - the art of attaching large, heavy objects by hand to a hovering helicopter.

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Warriors prepare for redeployment with transition brief

Photos by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.25.2011

Cmdr. Herbert Griffin, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) chaplain, talks to Marines and sailors of Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, both part of 3rd MAW (Fwd), about the challenges they will face upon returning home from deployment during a Warrior Transition brief Jan. 25 aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

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January 23, 2011

3rd MAW (Fwd) flight surgeon receives prestigious award for service

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.23.2011

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Navy medical personnel have been to countless battlefields over the years, side-by-side with Marines – keeping them in the fight. So when Marine aviation officially took to the skies on May 22, 1912, the development of naval flight surgeons was not far behind

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January 22, 2011

Hercules rain supplies during aerial delivery

1/22/2011 By Sgt. Deanne Hurla , 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (FWD)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — When coalition forces on the ground can't afford to wait for a convoy or are out of reach for a helicopter resupply, the KC-130J provides the flexibility and capability of making a mass aerial delivery to the front lines.

Continue reading "Hercules rain supplies during aerial delivery" »

Weapon techs give coalition forces tactical advantages in southern Afghanistan

1/22/2011 By Cpl. Daniel H. Woodall , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — Since October, approximately 15 ordnance Marines with Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) have repaired and returned more than 500 weapon systems to coalition units operating in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.

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January 21, 2011

Rifle improves rapid target engagement

1/21/2011 By Pfc. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — As a presence in several evolving conflicts around the world, Marines must remain up-to-date on the newest technology in order to defeat the enemy and complete the mission at hand.

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January 18, 2011

U.S. Marine's life connects Afghanistan war, UND women's hockey

By: Randy Hanson, Hudson (Wis.) Star-Observer
Published January 18 2011

HUDSON, Wis.

Lance Cpl. Taylor Kolls had an eventful 2010.

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Marines look to sky for resupply

1/18/2011 By Cpl. Paul Zellner , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan — When Marines deployed to remote forward operating bases are in need of immediate resupply, they look to the sky.

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January 17, 2011

BHS teacher honors Marine with donation

January 17, 2011, 8:59 am

Michael Saarie, a music teacher at Binghamton’s West Middle School, made a donation to the school that struck a special chord in the hearts of many.

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January 15, 2011

America's Battalion Honors Two Fallen Warriors

Photo by Sgt. Mark Fayloga | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 01.15.2011

Marines pay their respect to 1st Lt. Scott J. Fleming and Sgt. Joe L. Wrightsman during a 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, memorial ceremony at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

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January 14, 2011

PMO Marines train for danger, uncertainty

1/14/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — It can happen in the blink of an eye. A traffic stop goes wrong. A detainee in Afghanistan tries to escape. A suspect violently resists arrest.

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January 11, 2011

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.

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Marine cheered by home front support

By Anastasia Scarborough
Published: January 11, 2011

The daily grind for Josh Pittman and his comrades in the U.S. Marines 5th ANGLICO (Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company) can be lonely.

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Building camaraderie, sharpening skill: CLB-31prepares for upcoming deployment

1/11/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

KIN BLUE, OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is the only continually forward deployed MEU in the Marine Corps and is constantly training to be ready when called upon. Combat Logistics Battalion 31, the logistics arm of the 31st MEU, conducted its bi-annual exercise CLBEX, Jan. 5-12, to prepare for the upcoming deployment of the Asia-Pacific Region.

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Motivated Cpl helps CLB-31 hold mess night during busy period

1/11/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — With a high operational tempo, frequent personnel turnover, and plenty of work to be done between deployments, one might think Marines of Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, would not have time to put a mess night together during the holiday season.

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January 10, 2011

Corps’ most decorated unit joins 31st MEU

1/10/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU

KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa, Japan — The most decorated infantry battalion in the Marine Corps has arrived over the past week from Camp Pendleton, Calif., to join the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit as the new battalion landing team, with the final flight landing here Jan. 10.

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January 9, 2011

'Ugly Angels’ carry their weight in combat operations

Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.08.2011
Date Posted: 01.09.2011 05:53

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – When coalition forces and supplies need to be moved quickly throughout the Regional Command (Southwest)’s area of operations, the Marines of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), are here to carry the weight

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3rd MAW (Fwd) makes explosive impact in Afghanistan

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.08.2011
Date Posted:01.09.2011 04:10

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Coalition forces present in Afghanistan continuously patrol the country’s vast landscape and cities while conducting operations and gathering information from local citizens.

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January 8, 2011

3rd MAW (Fwd) develops new flightline aboard Camp Bastion

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 01.08.2011

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Third Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) is currently completing the final phases of an extensive three-year flightline project aboard Camp Bastion, which will allow the flightline to traffic larger aircraft, such as the C-5 Galaxy, Boeing 737 and Antonov AN-124 Condor on its 11,500-foot runway.

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January 6, 2011

CLB-3’s Embedded Partnering Team increases operability of Afghan soldiers

1/6/2011 By Cpl. Daniel H. Woodall , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP GARM-SHER, Afghanistan — Personnel with Combat Logistics Battalion 3’s Embedded Partnering Team recently implemented plans to increase the Afghan National Army’s ability to conduct independent operations.

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January 3, 2011

Faces and Places - Afghanistan

Monday, January 03, 2011

The pictures speak for themselves......

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January 1, 2011

Marines ring in new year with 5K run in Afghanistan

Photo by Cpl. Shannon McMillan | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 01.01.2011

Photos of service members and civilians during a 5 kilometer run at midnight to help celebrate the New Year at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

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December 30, 2010

President visits, spreads Holiday Cheer

Story by Cpl. Colby Brown | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.30.2010

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII — Among the highlights of the first family’s recent Hawaiian vacation was spending time with Marines, sailors and families here Dec. 25. More than 250 people met the president and first lady during their Christmas day visit to the Anderson dining hall.

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December 29, 2010

Deployed service members enjoy holiday season

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 12.29.2010

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Inevitably, many Marines and service members spend the holiday seasons overseas away from friends and family. Fortunately, they have an enormous support network, which continues to produce new ways to enhance holiday cheer during their deployment.

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December 27, 2010

Marines ‘on edge’ from suppressing Taliban activity

12/27/2010 By Cpl. Daniel Woodall , 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

COMBAT OUTPOST RANKEL, Afghanistan — Combat engineers with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) continue to improve mobility for Afghan civilians and the Marines of 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division (Forward), near Combat Outpost Rankel in southern Afghanistan.

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Marine Leadership Visits Camp Geronimo, Afghanistan

Courtesy Video | Regional Command Southwest | Date: 12.24.2010
Date Posted: 12.27.2010 8:01AM

B-roll of Gen. James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps and Sgt. Maj. Carlton Kent, Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps visit service members with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines aboard Camp Geronimo, Afghanistan.

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December 26, 2010

Paying for power jolts some military families

About 6,400 Navy and Marine Corps households will be charged for excess energy use, a cost some believe is unfair

By William Cole
POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Dec 26, 2010

Come Saturday, 6,400 military families in Hawaii will start to get electricity bills where there weren't any before, and although the change is intended to reduce consumption, not all are viewing the effort with holiday cheer.

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December 23, 2010

MCB Hawaii Operations and Training Directorate holds first training symposium

Story by Kristen Wong | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.23.2010

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii — This year, more than 4,000 service members from various branches of the military, including the Army and the Coast Guard, have taken advantage of training opportunities on base. At a recent symposium, attendees could get a more in-depth look at the kind of training that has reputedly produced some of the “best battalions,” according to Lt. Col. Michael Antonio, director of the Operations and Training Directorate.

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December 22, 2010

Marine honored for heroism, courage

12/22/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — Running into a hail of bullets to save lives is not something just anyone would do, but Marines who have earned our country’s highest awards for heroism have done just that.

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December 21, 2010

Seether rocks Marine Corps Base Hawaii

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.21.2010

Jarring screams, face-melting guitar riffs and bowel-shaking bass highlighted platinum hard rock band Seether’s United Service Organizations-sponsored free concert on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Dec. 17, 2010.

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Paying it forward: ‘Kings of Battle’ Marines clean up homeless veterans shelter

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.21.2010

WAIANAE, Hawaii -- Marines are imbued with a willingness to serve — from the time they swear an oath to defend their country to the time they join the fight overseas.

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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.

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December 19, 2010

In Afghanistan, Tate keeps link to Spartans

After successful mission, former player to be honorary captain at bowl game

Joe Rexrode • [email protected] • December 19, 2010

In Afghanistan, 2nd Lt. Joe Tate encountered hostile Taliban, endured 130-degree temperatures, guided 39 Marines safely through a seven-month tour, helped build foot bridges and a soccer field, and marveled at the dedication of Muslims fasting each day during the monthlong observance of Ramadan.

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Father and son reunited, serving combat tours

Story by Lance Cpl. Glen Santy | Regimental Combat Team-2, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs | Date: 12.19.2010

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM II, Afghanistan - After nearly a year apart, Petty Officer 1st Class Greg Hoodenpyle, 54, and his son 1st Lt. Alex Hoodenpyle, 25, were reunited here, Dec. 10 through 17, 2010.

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December 16, 2010

3rd Marine Regiment honors fallen heroes with memorial run

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.16.2010

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii -- Behind a giant white banner bearing the phrase, “To honor their blood… with our sweat,” the morning sun shone brightly off a row of 116 dog tags displayed outside the 3rd Marine Regiment headquarters building on Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

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HMLA-369 Marines get 'back in the saddle'

12/16/2010 By Cpl. Alexandra M. Harris , Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Marines with Marine Light Attack Squadron 369 recently returned to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and began their 'back in the saddle’ training after a seven and a half month deployment to Afghanistan.

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December 15, 2010

MarForPac Band CD covers hits

Story by Lance Cpl. Vanessa American Horse | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.15.2010

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii - The U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific Band released their first cover band CD this week.

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Marines fly Santa, helpers to Arizona reservation

(AP) – 12.15.10

SUPAI, Ariz. (AP) — Children on the Havasupai reservation don't associate Santa Claus with a sleigh and flying reindeer.

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December 14, 2010

Pressing on with purpose: Marine firefighters hike Honolulu Marathon for second year, raise money for wounded warriors

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.14.2010

HONOLULU — Under the auburn glow of Honolulu streetlights, eight Marines in boots and camouflage trousers donned packs chock-full of fluids, food and 65 pounds of gear, yet still swiftly moved to the Honolulu Marathon’s starting line.

Continue reading "Pressing on with purpose: Marine firefighters hike Honolulu Marathon for second year, raise money for wounded warriors" »

December 13, 2010

M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle hits Hawaii Marines’ hands, fleet Marine force

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Main | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.13.2010

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii - Marine Corps Systems Command personnel and gun maker Heckler & Koch staff delivered more than 80 M27 Infantry Automatic Rifles Dec. 3 to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment armorers.

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Marines to split new jets between Miramar, Yuma

Calls basing plan best for military operations

By Gretel C. Kovach
Monday, December 13, 2010 at 7:52 p.m.

Amid community concerns over noise and safety issues, the Navy Department is moving ahead with plans to evenly split its West Coast fleet of the new F-35B Joint Strike Fighter jets between Miramar Marine Corp Air Station and Yuma, Ariz.

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December 12, 2010

Dwyer Cobra Detachment Provides close-air tactical advantage

Story by Sgt. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 12.11.2010
Date Posted:12.12.2010 09:51

FORWARD OPERATIING BASE DWYER, Afghanistan – A small detachment of AH-1W Super Cobra pilots and enlisted Marines stationed here, distanced from the main body of their squadron aboard Camp Leatherneck, work around the clock with few aircraft and limited manpower to provide immediate close air support for coalition and Afghan forces within the area.

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Nawa turns into proving ground for U.S. strategy in Afghan war

By Rajiv Chandrasekaran
Sunday, December 12, 2010; 12:00 AM

IN NAWA, AFGHANISTAN When Gen. David H. Petraeus makes his case that the military's strategy in Afghanistan is succeeding, he cites the evolution of this community of mud-walled homes and wheat fields:

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December 10, 2010

Live-fire training with a blast

12/10/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — Marines from 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, concluded this evolution of the Artillery Relocation Training Program at Camp Sendai, Japan, Dec. 1.

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5th ANGLICO prepares to return home

12/10/2010 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , Marine Corps Bases Japan

Helmand province, Afghanistan — The Marines of 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, are nearing the end of their seven-month deployment to Helmand province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Conduits for Progress: 'America’s Battalion' returns successful from Afghanistan deployment

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.10.2010

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii - Every day away was a test — but “America’s Battalion” is finally home.

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December 9, 2010

4 bases selected to host Marine F-35Bs

By Susanne M. Schafer - The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Dec 9, 2010 20:33:35 EST

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The military plans to put 400 of the Marine Corps’ new vertical take-off F-35B fighter jets at four installations in North Carolina, South Carolina, California and Arizona.

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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

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Marine commandant speaks at MCAS Yuma

December 09, 2010 5:03 PM
BY JAMES GILBERT - SUN STAFF WRITER

In his first tour of West Coast installations since becoming the 35th commandant of the Marine Corps., Gen. James F. Amos addressed the Marines and sailors at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma and toured the facility Thursday.

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December 7, 2010

New Runway Offers New Capabilities for FOB Delram II

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Courtesy Video
Date Taken:12.7.2010
Category:Newscasts
Video ID:102220
Filename:DOD_100104306

Start of Description:
Package about the first KC-130J landing at Forward Operating Base Delram II.

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‘Divas’ and MCAS Miramar team up for show

12/7/2010 By Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot , Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. — About ten Marines grinning from ear to ear enjoyed a private concert while Katy Perry rehearsed on stage.

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Marines set to return home after final training

12/7/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX (LHD2), OFF THE COAST OF OKINAWA, Japan (Dec. 7, 2010) — The Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force and 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit began operations for Keen Sword 2011, Dec. 6.

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December 6, 2010

Marines return from seven-month deployment in Afghanistan

By Star-Advertiser staff
POSTED: 07:54 p.m. HST, Dec 06, 2010

About 450 Hawaii Marines will return to Kaneohe Bay tomorrow after a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan, officials said.

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Brotherhood forged between Marines in the field

12/6/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — Editor’s note: This is final part in a three part series.

Growing up, I had always wanted to become a Marine. The tales of what they had done astonished me, and having multiple relatives that served in the Marine Corps only added to my fascination.

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December 5, 2010

Paving the Way: CLB-3 Engineers improve road in southern Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 11.28.2010
Date Posted:12.05.2010 09:24

PATROL BASE AMIR, Afghanistan – Approximately 50 Marine combat engineers with Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 3,1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), completed repairs to a well-traveled roadway near Patrol Base Amir in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, Nov. 28.

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Katy Perry supreme as 'Divas' salutes troops

By MIKE CIDONI
AP Entertainment Writer
Dec 5, 5:29 AM EST

SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Katy Perry loves a man in a uniform.

Continue reading "Katy Perry supreme as 'Divas' salutes troops" »

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.

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December 3, 2010

3/12 comes home to loving families

Story by Lance Cpl. Andrew Thorburn | Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms | Date: 12.03.2010

Family and friends braved frigid Combat Center temperatures to welcome back the Marines and sailors of Battery L, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment Monday at Del Valle Field after a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom

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Stories from the firing line; Marines ready to stand against any foe

12/3/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — Marine Corps lore is as storied as any fighting force in history. The Marine Corps hymn tells of famous battles from “the halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli.”

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Strong individual Marines make up even stronger team

12/3/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — Editor’s note: This is the second in a three part series

Gun Team Five is not without solid leadership to command the howitzer in the trenches. Their non-commissioned officers bark out the commands during fire missions and the Marines perform their duties with precision.

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Marine gun team operates as family

12/3/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — Editor’s note: This is the first in a three part series

While waiting for the call for live fire, Gun Team Five passes the time by joking about Marines they know, stories of family, or telling old stories from deployments and previous exercises they have been on. Even though they may tease each other, they operate as one, well-oiled Marine machine.

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3rd Recon, HMM-265 conduct helocast operations

12/3/2010 By Pfc. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, Japan — The CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter glided precariously low over the choppy water off the beach of Camp Schwab, dropping pairs of reconnaissance Marines into the ocean. The splash of the Marines’ entry into the waves was lost in the wind-whipped water that sprayed underneath the dual rotors of the helicopter.

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December 2, 2010

In keeping with the highest traditions

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Main | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.02.2010

For displaying gallantry in more than 20 firefights and 90 combat patrols, Staff Sgt. Cody M. Maynard was awarded the Bronze Star with combat distinguishing device Tuesday at the Combat Assault Company headquarters building on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay.

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Returning with Grace

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Main | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 12.02.2010

In May of 1979, 441 Vietnamese refugees fled their country in hopes of landing anywhere but Vietnam. Shortly after leaving, pirates raided their vessel and the refugees were left adrift for days. The USS Tarawa, a United States Navy amphibious assault ship, finally rescued the refugees on May 8. Grace Tarawa Tran was born two days later and immediately became a U.S. citizen.

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December 1, 2010

Artillery Marines take on multiple challenges during exercise

12/1/2010 By Lance Cpl Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan —

A Marine Corps artillery battery has multiple tasks to synchronize for an artillery relocation exercise to be successful.

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Marines prepare to stand watch over Camp Leatherneck

Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 12.01.2010

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – No matter what time of the day or night, a Marine is always standing watch – he is the first line of defense against attacks and protects those under his charge.

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November 29, 2010

31st MEU returns to Okinawa

11/29/2010 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to Okinawa Nov. 23 after a nearly three-month deployment of the Asia-Pacific region.

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November 26, 2010

Marine engineers leave 'long term impact' during Afghanistan deployment

Story by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Brofer | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 11.25.2010
Date Posted:11.26.2010 08:17

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – The Marines of 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) transferred authority to the North Carolina-based 8th Engineer Support Battalion in a ceremony here, Nov. 25, officially marking the completion of their seven-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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ScanEagle keeps eyes in sky across Afghanistan

Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 11.26.2010

FORWARD OPERATING BASE EDINBURGH, Afghanistan - Edinburgh is a small forward operating base, which lies surrounded by mountains and conflict in the northern region of Helmand province.

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November 24, 2010

CLB-3 provides logistics support to coalition forces

11/24/2010 By Cpl. Paul D. Zellner , Marine Corps Bases Japan

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Marines and sailors from Motor Transport Company B (Reinforced), Combat Logistics Battalion 3, provided tactical logistics support to the Marines of 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Forward), I Marine Expeditionary Force, during Operation Steel Dawn II Oct. 26 - Nov. 1.

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Artillery relocation training begins

11/24/2010 By Lance Cpl. Garry J. Welch , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP SENDAI, Japan — The Marine Corps has returned to the Ojojihara training area on mainland Japan for artillery relocation training Nov. 18 - Dec. 9.

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Marine honored with Bronze Star on Corps' birthday

11/24/2010 By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — Master Sgt. Blaine M. Jones, artillery man and fire support chief for 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, received the Bronze Star with combat distinguishing device, America's fourth-highest awarded combat decoration, for service during his deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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November 23, 2010

IED training helps Marines identify threats

Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 11.23.2010

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – While driving down the dusty roads of Afghanistan, Marines watch out the windows of their vehicles. The lead driver halts the convoy and calls for a search team to dismount. A possible improvised explosive device has been spotted

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November 22, 2010

Artillery Marines survive jungle with teamwork, determination

11/22/2010 By Lance Cpl. Dengrier M. Baez , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP GONSALVES, OKINAWA, Japan — An early October morning, rain pouring, Marines wait patiently under the protection of a steel-dome overhead. It's only for a short while; their final test in the thick of the jungle is about to begin.

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CLR-35 Marine uses past experiences for future advantage

11/22/2010 By Lance Cpl. Abigail M. Wharton , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan — "He's outgoing, understanding and patient with a good work ethic," says Cpl. John C. Waters, describing his friend Lance Cpl. Leland Sajdak. "He had a lot of experience before the Corps, and he's putting it to use here." Sajdak, native of Detroit and a telephone systems and personal computer intermediate repairman with legacy/multi-plexor section, Intermediate Maintenance Activity Platoon, Electronic Maintenance Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, enlisted in the Marines after graduating from a camp aimed to help troubled kids.

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Former Marine in line for the Medal of Honor

By William Cole
POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Nov 22, 2010

A former Hawaii Marine may be on his way to becoming just the second living service member since the Vietnam War to receive the Medal of Honor.

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November 20, 2010

31st MEU helps Hong Kong nursery school

11/20/2010 By 1st Lt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

HONG KONG, People’s Republic of China — Eighteen Marines and Sailors, from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit spent the day helping children at the Ma Tau Chung Nursery School in Hong Kong, Nov. 19.

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Marines, sailors train Afghan soldiers to operate independently

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 11.20.2010

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – For the past two months, 20 Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), have been mentoring approximately 330 soldiers with the Afghan National Army.

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November 14, 2010

Marine pursues dream of flying

11/14/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , 31st MEU

USS DENVER (LPD9), AT SEA — A Marine with Company A, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion 7th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is on the verge of making his dreams of becoming a pilot a reality.

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November 12, 2010

Fallen Pilots Honored During Plaque Dedication Ceremony

Regimental Combat Team 1

Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga
Date: 11.12.2010

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Afghanistan - Marines at Forward Operating Base Geronimo, Afghanistan, honored the sacrifice of two pilots from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 during a plaque dedication ceremony Nov. 7.

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November 11, 2010

Red Devils take out enemy positions, improve friendly freedom of movement

Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 11.11.2010

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – On Nov. 4, seven F/A-18 Hornets took off from here en route to Kajaki Dam to take out several known enemy firing positions.

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November 10, 2010

CLB-3 celebrates USMC Birthday in Afghanistan

1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall
Date: 11.10.2010

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan –On Nov. 10, Marines and sailors of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) gathered together to celebrate 235years of Marine Corps history and tradition.

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November 7, 2010

Wing Marines fly through convoy operations

Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 11.07.2010

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Convoys provide vital lifelines of troops, supplies and vehicles across Afghanistan; however, it requires an immense amount of teamwork, dedication and proficiency to keep these assets moving across the vast desert terrain.

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November 6, 2010

Motor Transport keeps Marines in the fight

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 11.06.2010

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan –The Marines and sailors of Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) arrived here last month in support of I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) and to provide combat logistics support to units within Regimental Combat Team 1.

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November 5, 2010

The fourth time’s a charm: Waves roll in for Kuau Rockin’ Surf Competition on MCB Hawaii

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 11.05.2010

After three straight weekends of poor waves, surfers found the swells they’d been looking for at the Kuau Rockin’ Surf Competition on Marine Corps Base Hawaii’s Pyramid Rock Beach, Oct. 31, 2010.

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3rd Radio Battalion takes to field, mixes it up with moulage

Story by Lance Cpl. Reece Lodder | Marine Corps Base Hawaii – Kaneohe Bay | Date: 11.05.2010

Crimson blood oozes from the face lacerations and open leg fracture of an unresponsive casualty. Two Marines work quickly to stop his bleeding, grabbing gauze and bandages from the contents of an individual first aid kit strewn in the field around him.

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Artillery Marines endure JWTC’s challenge

11/5/2010 By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP GONSALVES, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 70 Marines from Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, took on the Jungle Warfare Training Center’s 3.8 mile Jungle Endurance Course Oct. 21 on Camp Gonsalves.

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CLB-3 begins operations in Afghanistan

11/5/2010 By Cpl. Paul D. Zellner II , Marine Corps Bases Japan

Camp Dwyer, Afghanistan — Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 3 began conducting independent operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom after an official transfer of authority Oct. 18 on Camp Dwyer in Afghanistan.

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November 4, 2010

5 days, 89,000 gallons: Marines train for disaster

11/4/2010 By Cpl. Kristin E. Moreno , Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — Marines of Combat Logistics Company 36 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 maintenance and utilities sections participated in water purification training at Penny Lake here Oct. 25-29.

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November 3, 2010

‘Gunfighters’ ready for quick draw during troops in contact response

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date11.02.2010
Date Posted:11.03.2010 10:40

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – “TIC, TIC, TIC” is the radio call that commands Marines to sprint to waiting aircraft on the flightline for an immediate takeoff. It can happen at any time of day, and two attack helicopters from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 are always ready for tasking when the call is received.

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Marine renders aid to devastating accident

Story by Pfc. Ryan Carpenter | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 11.03.2010

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Sifting through wreckage caused by a truck ripping through an occupied home almost a year and a half ago, Staff Sgt. James DeLeo reverted to his training as an Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marine to control the chaotic situation.

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Mother and son reunited in Afghanistan

1st Marine Division
Story by Cpl. Daniel Blatter
Date Posted: 11.03.2010

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - After more than two years of separation due to military deployments and lifestyle, mother and son were reunited thousands of miles from home.

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November 2, 2010

ARFF Marines bring the heat

Story by Pfc. Ryan Carpenter | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 11.02.2010

SAN DIEGO - Fire danced around the aircraft as a two-man team of Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Marines wielded a high-pressure hose shooting hundreds of gallons of water, suffocating the blazing inferno. Like a trick candle on a child’s birthday cake, the flames burst back to life only to have the ARFF Marines re-attack. The engine from a P-19 primary firefighting truck rumbled in the background.

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MCCS brings morale to Kajaki Marines

Story by Lance Cpl. Kenneth Jasik
Date 10.20.2010
Date Posted: 11.02.2010 01:47

KAJAKI DAM, Afghanistan – Members of the Warrior Express Services Team, Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) brought a little piece of home to the Marines of India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, when the team visited them here, Oct. 17-27.

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November 1, 2010

CLB-3 constructs bridge, aids Afghan community

1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall

Date: 10.27.2010
Date Posted: 11.01.2010 06:47

TRAKH NAWA, Afghanistan – Since the removal of the Taliban as Afghanistan’s governing body nine years ago, coalition forces have helped rebuild the nation’s infrastructure, providing stability and peace to an otherwise turbulent region. Their humanitarian and peace-keeping efforts seek to bridge the divide between traditional and progressive values in an ever-changing world. For combat engineers, the aforementioned objective can be accomplished quite literally.

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October 29, 2010

MP dogs, handlers prepare for deployment

10/29/2010 By Cpl. Rebekka S. Heite , Marine Corps Bases Japan

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines from Military Police Support Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF, worked together to familiarize five military working dogs with the CH-46 Sea Knight while static and in flight Oct. 15.

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October 28, 2010

Lynn Sees Counterinsurgency Success in Afghan Village

Story by Jim Garamone | Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs | Date: 10.28.2010

NAWA, Afghanistan - Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jeff Holt was showing Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III the lay of the land of this village in Helmand province from atop the district government center.

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October 27, 2010

ANP distribute alfalfa seed to local villagers in Kajaki.

Story by 1st Lt. Barry Morris | Regimental Combat Team-2, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs | Date: 10.27.2010

KAJAKI, Afghanistan - Seasonal change brings with it a shift in weather as well as climate. For the Afghans living around the Kajaki Dam, every opportunity to prepare for the winter months ahead is essential for their continued success and survival.

Continue reading "ANP distribute alfalfa seed to local villagers in Kajaki." »

October 26, 2010

3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion receives new leader

10/26/2010 By Cpl. Monty Burton, I MEF

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — The 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion received a new commander during a change of command ceremony at Camp Del Mar, Oct. 21. Lt. Col. Aaron Weiss took the reins of Camp Pendleton, Calif.-based 3rd LAAD from Lt. Col. Michel C. Cancellier.

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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.”

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Troops deliver relief supplies to typhoon victims

By Erik Slavin
Stars and Stripes
Published: October 25, 2010

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan — U.S. servicemembers helped deliver more than 170,000 pounds in supplies to victims of Typhoon Megi in the Philippines over the past few days, officials said Monday.

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Making straight shooters on the range

Story by Lance Cpl. Lisa Tourtelot | Marine Corps Air Station Miramar | Date: 10.25.2010

SAN DIEGO - Cpl. Jamie O’Bannon, a combat marksmanship trainer, smiled as he remembered a corporal who hit the target only twice on her first day on the pistol range.

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October 24, 2010

HAZMAT Marines keep 3rd MAW (Fwd) airborne

Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla | 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs | Date: 10.23.2010
Date Posted:10.24.2010 04:22

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Aircraft require several moving parts to be well-greased and oiled to work properly, but the materials that keep these large machines running smoothly can be potentially hazardous to the environment and must be handled properly.

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CLR-15 (FWD) Marines augment CLB-3 during Afghanistan deployment

Story by Cpl. Daniel Woodall | 1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs | Date: 10.24.2010

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan – Only a few days after accepting sole logistical responsibility in a large area of operations, and less than one month into their deployment in support of the International Security Assistance Force, the Marines and sailors of Hawaii-based Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) have already conducted several operations throughout Helmand province.

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October 23, 2010

31st MEU aids isolated Philippine towns after Super Typhoon Juan devastates area

10/23/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza, 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, off the coast of the Republic of the Philippines — Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11 responded to the call of the government of the Philippines to help thousands of citizens affected by Super Typhoon Juan (international name Megi) Oct 21 - 23.

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October 21, 2010

Oregon Marines in Afghanistan cheer Ducks, Beavers

By KVAL.com staff
Story Published: Oct 21, 2010 at 1:57 PM PDT

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Blame the delay in the video reaching KVAL.com's offices in Eugene for the lowered expectations of Cpl. Paul Spies.

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31ST MEU and PHIBRON-11 provide assistance after Super Typhoon Juan

10/21/2010 By 1st Lt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX, off the coast of the Republic of the Philippines — Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11 flew from the USS Essex (LHD 2) to storm-ravaged areas of the northern Philippines to assist its government with an initial damage survey and an assessment of local population needs, Oct 21.

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Marines keep crafty enemy off balance in Afghanistan

Sgt. Mark Fayloga
RCT-1 PAO

NAWA, Afghanistan (Oct. 21, 2010) — The men of India Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, have spent enough time in Afghanistan to understand some of the workings of the Taliban presence there.

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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.

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‘Ugly Angels’ support ANA, coalition forces during Operation Stargey

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 10.17.2010
Date Posted: 10.18.2010 23:54
Location:JAHAZI, AF

JAHAZI, Afghanistan – Two CH-53D Sea Stallions from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), landed here early in the morning Oct.17 with approximately 30 Afghan National Army troops and Marines from Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, on board for Operation Stargey.

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October 17, 2010

'Red Devils' clear path for 'Werewolves'

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 10.17.2010

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), is down to the last 30 days of their deployment while still maintaining and upholding the standards with which they arrived.

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October 15, 2010

31st MEU visits Philippine school

10/15/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , 31st MEU

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines — “Welcome to our home, welcome to our school” was the song the students of Gordon Heights, an elementary school near Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines, sang as Marines and Sailors deployed with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit walked through its gates. The troops were warmly welcomed with smiles and shouts from nearly 600 Filipino students, anxious to shake hands and talk to the service members.

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Marines return from six-month deployment

October 15, 2010 4:21 PM
BY JAMES GILBERT - SUN STAFF WRITER

Among the many family members who turned out to welcome home their loved ones from a six-month deployment to Afghanistan was Alison Swarts, who had a big surprise in store for her Marine husband.

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October 14, 2010

Drill instructor, former recruit serve together as ‘Red Devils’

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 10.14.2010

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Many new Marines are thankful for their drill instructor’s guidance upon graduation from recruit training, but hope to never see them again. However, for some this just isn’t in their cards.

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October 11, 2010

Search for Marine lieutenant's killer meets Afghan obstacles

By: Sara A. Carter
National Security Correspondent
October 11, 2010

HELMAND, AFGHANISTAN -- Jason Armas, a U.S. Marine Corps captain, scrolled through the photographs of four bearded Afghan men believed to be responsible for the assassination of Marine 1st Lt. Scott J. Fleming.

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October 9, 2010

‘Raiders’ keep aerial fighters airborne longer

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 10.06.2010
Date Posted: 10.09.2010 07:48

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets provide constant support to Afghan National Security Forces and International Security Assistance Forces on the ground over the Regional Command (Southwest) battle space.

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Marines, UK forces partner ATC in Afghanistan

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson
Date10.05.2010
Date Posted:10.09.2010 07:21

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Two U.S. Marines were recognized by a senior U.K. official Oct. 5 for accomplishments they achieved while working at the Air Traffic Control tower here.

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October 8, 2010

VMGR-352, 1st Recon reunite for aerial insert

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 10.05.2010
Date Posted: 10.08.2010 09:07

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DWYER, Afghanistan – Marines of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), teamed up with Bravo Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Forward), to hone their aerial insertion skills here Oct. 5.

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Harrier squadron adopts Yuma elementary school

By Sarah Reed, Yuma Sun
Posted : Friday Oct 8, 2010

YUMA, Ariz. — Teacher-to-student ratios have been extremely high due to recent class size growth, which in turn decreases the amount of one-on-one time that instructors can spend with each child in their classroom.

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October 7, 2010

Air show honors uncommon valor

10/7/2010 By Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot , Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. — More than 850,000 eager spectators came to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show, themed “uncommon valor,” to honor the 65th anniversary of the raising of the flag on Mount Suribachi.

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Air show makes wishes come true

10/7/2010 By Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot , Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. — Thunder lit up the sky and rain poured down all morning, but nothing could dampen the mood of Make-A-Wish Day participants at the flight line here Sept. 30.

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Marine awarded for actions during OEF

10/7/2010 By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin , Marine Corps Bases Japan

CAMP FUJI, Japan — Staff Sgt. Rodrigo B. AriasHernandez recently received the Bronze Star Award with Combat V for his actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan Aug. 19-20, 2009.

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Intel Marines fire away in preparation for Operation Enduring Freedom

By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin,
Marine Corps Bases Japan
10/7/2010

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines from 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, send rounds down range on Camp Hansen Sept. 27-30 in preparation for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.

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October 3, 2010

Afghan Army, Marines Conduct Clearing Mission in Trek Nawa during Operation Mako

10/3/10 | Regimental Combat Team 1
Regimental Combat Team 1
Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

TREK NAWA, Afghanistan - The men of India Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, were looking for a fight, but it wasn’t a single battle they were interested in; they were hoping to affect future conflicts by upsetting the enemy’s operations and removing weapons caches.

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76 Marines killed in Afghanistan since May 1

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Oct 3, 2010 11:07:20 EDT

Last November, President Obama announced that 30,000 additional U.S. troops, including 8,500 Marines, would deploy to Afghanistan. The troops would push the Corps’ footprint in hostile Helmand province to more than 20,000.

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October 2, 2010

Marine pilots work together to obtain mission accomplishment.

15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs
Story by Capt. Paul Duncan
Date 10.01.2010
Date Posted: 10.02.2010 01:19

PANO AQILl, Pakistan - The Marine pilots of HMM-165 Reinforced, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and VMM-266, 26th MEU combine their unique capabilities to solve complex disaster relief issues in the southern province of Sindh, Pakistan.

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October 1, 2010

Blue Knights’ welcome new commanding officer

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 09.30.2010
Date Posted:10.01.2010 10:48

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, the “Blue Knights,” serving under 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), welcomed a new commanding officer as Lt. Col. Richard F. Fuerst relinquished his command to Lt. Col. Craig C. LeFlore during a change of command ceremony here Sept. 30.

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1/11 names firebase, honors fallen Marine

1st Marine Division
Story by Cpl. Ned Johnson
Date 10.01.2010

FIREBASE SEINZ, Afghanistan – For years, military members have been naming bases and buildings after fallen warriors.

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September 27, 2010

‘Ironmen’ transfer authority to ‘Aces’

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson
Date 09.26.2010
Date Posted: 09.27.2010 06:38

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, the "Ironmen," transferred responsibilities to MWSS-373, the "Aces," during a transfer of authority ceremony here, Sept. 26.

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Marines are changed by Afghan mission

By: Sara A. Carter
National Security Correspondent
September 27, 2010

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Matt Garst earned the nickname "The Unbreakable Marine" during the campaign to pacify the area around the town of Marja.

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September 26, 2010

VMU-1 makes enemy afraid of “Shadow”

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson
Date 09.22.2010
Date Posted: 09.26.2010 02:48

AFGHANISTAN - As a shockwave rumbled across the flight line here Sept. 22, it was met with an even larger roar of cheering from the Marines with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward).

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First C-17 lands at FOB Dwyer, breaks critical logistical barrier

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Derek Carlson
Date 09.23.2010
Date Posted:09.26.2010 02:35

AFGHANISTAN – September 23 marked a historical moment here when a C-17 “Globemaster III” touched down on the flight line carrying more than a dozen pallets of supplies.

Continue reading "First C-17 lands at FOB Dwyer, breaks critical logistical barrier" »

September 25, 2010

Eye in sky provides overwatch for ground forces

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date 09.24.2010
Date Posted: 09.25.2010 11:45

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DWYER, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces on the ground depend on a variety of aircraft to support their various missions here in Helmand province, but one type of aircraft is providing a unique capability no other can match.

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September 24, 2010

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit remains combat ready while afloat

9/24/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza, 31st MEU

USS DENVER — Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, onboard the USS Denver (LPD9), participated in enhanced marksmanship live fire drills, Sept. 19.

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September 23, 2010

Afghan farmer uses Marine program in hopes of becoming teacher

Regimental Combat Team-7, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga
Date 09.23.2010

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan - In the morning sunlight, Mohamed Nadar was building his house in Nawa, Afghanistan. The work was slow going. It was Ramadan, and the farmer didn’t exert himself as he was observing the tradition of fasting during daylight.

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September 20, 2010

9th ESB brings safety, comfort to front lines

1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Kenneth Jasik
Date 09.16.2010
Date Posted: 09.20.2010 03:27

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ZEEBRUGGE, Afghanistan – Along the front lines of the war in Afghanistan, Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) are working hard to improve the quality of life and bulk up the security of one of the most remote forward operating bases in Helmand Province, FOB Zeebrugge, Sept. 16.

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A Marine's a Marine

1st Marine Logistics Group Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Kenneth Jasik
Date 09.16.2010
Date Posted: 09.20.2010 04:39

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ZEEBRUGEE, Afghanistan – Female Marines represent just six percent of the entire Marine Corps, and for one combat engineer from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) that small ratio is a large reality.

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September 18, 2010

Marine from Marietta killed in Afghanistan

By Rhonda Cook
10:09 p.m. Saturday, September 18, 2010
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The words from a Marine captain were according to script, but they tore a hole in a father’s heart.

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September 17, 2010

Route recon keeps enemy guessing

III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
Courtesy Story
Date09.17.2010
Date Posted:09.16.2010 20:26
By Lance Cpl. Khoa N. Pelczar

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Marine engineers with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, currently deployed with 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, conducted a route reconnaissance mission to find alternate routes to travel when conducting resupply missions in northern Helmand province, Afghanistan, Sept. 1.

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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.

Continue reading "3rd LAAD transfers authority to 3/25" »

September 15, 2010

Historic landing reunites past with present

9/15/2010 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , 31st MEU

INCHEON, Republic of Korea — Family, friends and service members from around the world gathered in one place today to honor the alliance of the Republic of Korea, Australia, and the United States, and to remember those who gave everything defending freedom.

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September 14, 2010

MWSS-274 Wraps up Deployment

September 14, 2010
Marine Corps News
by Cpl. Ryan Rholes

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- About 600 Marines from Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), are packing up and preparing to head back to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., after more than seven months serving as ground support for Regional Command (Southwest)’s air combat element.

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September 12, 2010

3rd MAW (Fwd) Marines augment Leatherneck defenses

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date09.11.2010
Date Posted:09.12.2010 23:59

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marines of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) support coalition forces every day here in Southern Afghanistan, but 33 of them are performing a unique duty.

Continue reading "3rd MAW (Fwd) Marines augment Leatherneck defenses" »

September 10, 2010

2 Hoosiers killed in Iraq, Afghanistan

Marine from Columbus was serving his third tour of duty

Star report
Posted: September 10, 2010

Two Indiana servicemen died this week in fighting in the Middle East, one of them among the first U.S. service members killed in Iraq since President Barack Obama declared an end to combat operations in the country last week.

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Marines Secure Kajaki Dam

1st Marine Division
Story by Cpl. Daniel Blatter
Date09.09.2010
Date Posted:09.10.2010 06:21

KAJAKI, Afghanistan – Surrounded by enemy forces, the Marines of India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 2, work to keep the Kajaki Dam secure.

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Marine lays down wrench for sniper rifle

1st Marine Division
Date09.10.2010
By Cpl. Daniel A. Blatter

KAJAKI, Afghanistan – From a small town kid hunting deer, to a Marine Corps Sniper engaging the enemy at 1600 meters, one Marine has found himself holding a Barrett .50 caliber Sniper Rifle.

Continue reading "Marine lays down wrench for sniper rifle" »

September 9, 2010

31st MEU begins tour of Asia-Pacific

9/9/2010 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU

USS ESSEX AT SEA (Sept. 9, 2010) — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit recently left the shores of Okinawa, Japan and began its tour of the Asia-Pacific Region.

Continue reading " 31st MEU begins tour of Asia-Pacific" »

September 8, 2010

Eugene-based Marines say 'Go Ducks!' from Afghanistan

By Cali Bagby and Dan Morrison for KVAL.com
Story Published: Sep 8, 2010 at 5:44 PM PD

MARJAH, Afghanistan - We spoke with the Marines from the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, a Marine Reserve unit based in Eugene, Ore.

Continue reading "Eugene-based Marines say 'Go Ducks!' from Afghanistan" »

September 7, 2010

Hilltop Marine killed by bomb in Afghanistan

Tuesday, September 7, 2010 02:53 AM
By Suzanne Hoholik
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Sgt. Jesse Balthaser, 23, died instantly when he stepped on a roadside bomb after his unit was involved in a firefight, his girlfriend said.

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31st MEU AAVs train with Navy at sea

9/7/2010 By 1stLt Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU

USS DENVER AT SEA — Marines with the Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/7, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, conducted operations between two ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 at sea, Sept. 7.

Continue reading " 31st MEU AAVs train with Navy at sea" »

September 4, 2010

Glimpse of Things to Come: ANP Take Security Lead at Nawa Bazaar

Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga
Regimental Combat Team-7, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs
Saturday, Sept. 4, 2010

NAWA, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — Sooner, rather than later, the Marine presence in Nawa will dwindle down as Afghan police and soldiers take over complete responsibility for the security and stability of the region.

Continue reading "Glimpse of Things to Come: ANP Take Security Lead at Nawa Bazaar" »

September 3, 2010

HMH-361 first to use ‘cool,’ new modification in combat

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Cpl. Ryan Rholes
Date 09.03.2010

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - The triple-digit temperatures that routinely plague service members here may soon become a memory for the pilots and aircrew of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, thanks to an innovative system designed to keep the Marines cool during even the hottest days.

Continue reading "HMH-361 first to use ‘cool,’ new modification in combat" »

September 2, 2010

ANGLICO Experts Augment the 31st MEU

9/2/2010 By 1st Lt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (September 2, 2010) — Twelve Marines from the 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company recently joined the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in preparation for the upcoming deployment to the Asia-Pacific region.

Continue reading " ANGLICO Experts Augment the 31st MEU" »

September 1, 2010

Kenner Marine Dies In Afghanistan

POSTED: 9:50 pm CDT September 1, 2010

NEW ORLEANS -- A local family is remembering a Marine from Kenner who was killed in fighting in Afghanistan.

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August 29, 2010

One Million Served

15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs
Story by Capt. Paul Duncan
Date08.29.2010

GHAZI, Pakistan – The sailors and Marines of HMM-165 reinforced (Reinforced), 15th MEU, and HM-15 Detachment 2, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15 press on as they acknowledge a major achievement during humanitarian relief efforts in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan.

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August 28, 2010

3rd MAW (Fwd) Hosts MEU Helos Preparing for Pakistan

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Deanne Hurla
Date08.27.2010
Date Posted:08.28.2010 12:04

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) proved its versatility and flexibility as they stepped up to support the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit on its way to Pakistan – without compromising its already-intense combat operations support.

Continue reading "3rd MAW (Fwd) Hosts MEU Helos Preparing for Pakistan" »

August 27, 2010

Homecoming Marines and sailors touch down in Miramar

Aerial refueling units apparently suffered no casualties during tour

By TOM PFINGSTEN - For the North County Times North County Times - Californian
Posted: Friday, August 27, 2010 9:25 pm

The 260 Marines and sailors who returned to Miramar Marine Corps Air Station on Friday were greeted by a cheering, smiling crowd of wives, children and parents, a joyful end to a seven-month tour in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand province.

Continue reading " Homecoming Marines and sailors touch down in Miramar" »

August 26, 2010

Afghan Army, Marines Disrupt Enemy Supply Routes

8/26/10 | Regimental Combat Team-7, 1st Marine Division Public Affairs
Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

KHANAGAWR, Afghanistan — Marines and sailors from Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, partnered with the Afghan National Army to complete Operation Big Wave, a two-part operation in Khanagawr and Southern Lashkar Gah taking place from Aug. 15-20.

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Combat hunter course teaches proactive basics

III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Abigail WhartonSmall RSS Icon
Date08.27.2010
Date Posted:08.26.2010 01:09
Location:47, JP

The 10-day course is broken into three major building blocks designed to increase situational awareness, said Gunnery Sgt. Richard Gonzalez, staff non-comissioned officer in charge, Mobilization Training Battalion, School of Infantry West, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

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August 25, 2010

Marines, sailors depart for KITP

III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Justin WheelerSmall RSS Icon
Date08.27.2010
Date Posted:08.25.2010 23:39

CAMP FOSTER, Japan - Approximately 400 Marines and sailors from Combat Logistics Regiment 3 and Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, as well as augments from across the 3rd MLG, departed for South Korea this week for an exercise as part of the Korean Incremental Training Program.

Continue reading "Marines, sailors depart for KITP" »

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.

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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 20, 2010

Marines, sailors conduct rescue training to stay mission ready

III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Aaron Hostutler
Date 08.20.2010

The corpsman? His only thought is saving his patient's life.

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August 15, 2010

Rags to Riches: How a Bronx youth transformed into a U.S. Marine

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs
Courtesy Story
08.15.2010
Location:AF

Cpl. Randy Rivera’s story reads like a movie script. It is a tale of poverty, sacrifice, drugs, violence and danger. From the crime-infested streets of Bronx, N.Y., to the archaic Puerto Rican countryside, Rivera has seen and lived what most couldn’t imagine.

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August 12, 2010

3rd Intel Battalion runs for injured Marines

II Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs
Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler VernazaSmall RSS IconAlerts Icon
08.12.2010

What began as a conversation topic after physical training one morning between the Marines of 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, has become a 235-mile run around the perimeter of Okinawa, starting and ending at Peace Prayer Park at the southern end of the island.

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Black Widows prepare for Afghanistan

Story by Lance Cpl. Sean Dennison
August 12, 2010

Six Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 Marines left Aug. 4, 2010, for the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, to prepare for deployment to Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Black Widows prepare for Afghanistan" »

August 9, 2010

Phantoms’ mechs support EMV

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — A Marine Air Ground Task Force has many moving parts, one of which is an unmanned aerial vehicle team. These Marines are the aerial eyes of the unit, and are known the world over as meticulous, thorough and above all else – professional.

Continue reading "Phantoms’ mechs support EMV" »

August 6, 2010

Phantoms’ Mechs Support EMV

A Marine Air Ground Task Force has many moving parts, one of which is an unmanned aerial vehicle team. These Marines are the aerial eyes of the unit, and are known the world over as meticulous, thorough and above all else – professional.

Continue reading "Phantoms’ Mechs Support EMV" »

August 3, 2010

Minto Marine injured in Afghanistan

Clayton Jarolimek’s injuries are serious, but not ‘life-threatening,’ mother says
A U.S. Marine from Minto, N.D., was injured Monday by an improvised explosive device, or IED, while on a foot patrol in Afghanistan.

A U.S. Marine from Minto, N.D., was injured Monday by an improvised explosive device, or IED, while on a foot patrol in Afghanistan.

Continue reading "Minto Marine injured in Afghanistan" »

August 2, 2010

Marines Remember Fallen Cobra Pilots in Afghanistan

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – An estimated 1,000 military personnel gathered in a hangar here Aug. 2 to remember two 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) helicopter pilots who made the ultimate sacrifice.

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Team Effort Saves Lives of Local Afghans After IED Blast

CAMP DELARAM II, Afghanistan – After the initial call reported one man with lacerations to his leg, a laceration turned out to be an amputation and one patient grew to nine.

Continue reading "Team Effort Saves Lives of Local Afghans After IED Blast" »

August 1, 2010

'Ajax' strikes chord with Marine veterans

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. • The reading of Sophocles' classic drama "Ajax" was polished and powerful.

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Family Members of Killed Afghan Police Thanked for Sacrifices

NAWA, Afghanistan — During a brief meeting at the Nawa District Center Police Station, Afghanistan, Marine representatives thanked and offered condolence payments July 17, to family members of three Afghanistan National Police officers killed in the past two weeks.

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Marines, Corpsmen Provide Medical Support So Afghans Can Help Afghans

AYNAK SCHOOL, Afghanistan — As squads of Marines and Afghan National Army soldiers marched their way past the line of small Afghan stores, shopkeeper Mohammad Wali wondered what was happening.

Continue reading "Marines, Corpsmen Provide Medical Support So Afghans Can Help Afghans" »

July 31, 2010

Deployed Marine finds U.S. home for Afghan cat

By Tony Lombardo - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Jul 31, 2010 12:55:44 EDT

A 9-month-old Afghan cat is living it up stateside after a Marine downrange partnered with an animal rescue group to ship it home.

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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" »

CLBEX helps prepare logistic Marines and sailors for upcoming deployment

KIN BLUE TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 28, 2010) — As the logistical element for the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Combat Logistics Battalion 31 must be ready to support the Asia-Pacific Maritime Contingency Force with many complex requirements including food service, security, medical assistance and transportation, all while deployed in austere environments.

Continue reading "CLBEX helps prepare logistic Marines and sailors for upcoming deployment" »

July 22, 2010

2 corporals die in Helmand province

Posted : Thursday Jul 22, 2010 12:37:49 EDT

Two 23-year-old Marines died this week in Helmand province, Afghanistan, the Defense Department announced Thursday.

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Marine With Kitsap Ties Dies While Serving in Afghanistan

POULSBO — A Marine who grew up in Kitsap County and whose family still lives in the area died in Afghanistan on Sunday.

Continue reading "Marine With Kitsap Ties Dies While Serving in Afghanistan" »

July 21, 2010

Face of Defense: Big Marine Unfazed by Enemy Bomb Blast

SOUTHERN SHORSURAK, Afghanistan - Marine Corps Cpl. Matt Garst continues to do his job here, thanks to an enemy-emplaced roadside bomb that malfunctioned.

Continue reading "Face of Defense: Big Marine Unfazed by Enemy Bomb Blast" »

MWHS-3 Marines Train to Be the Best So They Can Respond to the Worst

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan - A thin screen of dust settles over a Marine as he stands like a statue in the road. A quick flick of the wrist directs an approaching vehicle into a mobile vehicle check point where five more Marines wait. The next thirty seconds are critical; will the driver and passengers follow the Marines' orders? Is there a switch wired into the dash that could trigger an improvised explosive device? Will the passengers be cooperative or will they resist?

Continue reading "MWHS-3 Marines Train to Be the Best So They Can Respond to the Worst" »

July 11, 2010

Yuma hangars get $3.5 million upgrade

The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Jul 11, 2010 15:31:50 EDT

YUMA, Ariz. — The aircraft hangars at the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma are going high tech.

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July 9, 2010

Corpsman’s Valor Saves Lives

Gilbert, a corpsman with 7th Communications Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, was recognized here June 24 for his heroic actions while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom last year.

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July 8, 2010

Marines Proud of Dropping Critical Supplies

KABUL, Afghanistan - ISAF forces concluded a small-scale, rapid-response aerial delivery test last week, validating a new way to get mission-critical supplies to Afghan and ISAF forces on the ground.

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July 6, 2010

Hornet Pilots Get “arrested” in Afghanistan

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan – Two F/A-18 Hornets screamed onto the runway here, June 30, marking yet another “first,” in this historic deployment for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward): a safe landing thanks to newly-installed arresting gear to catch the fast-movers.

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July 4, 2010

Hueys Take to Skies Supporting ANSF, NATO Troops

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Marine Corps aviation assets in Afghanistan bring a huge advantage for Afghan national security forces and NATO troops who are constantly ambushed by an enemy that rarely sticks around to fight. So, while the insurgents hide behind their surprise tactics, Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 are bringing a little surprise of their own.

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July 2, 2010

Operation New Dawn patrols lead to cache finds

SOUTHERN SHORSURAK, HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — It became the catchphrase of the day — “I might as well be God d---ed Sherlock Holmes.”

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July 1, 2010

Marines, Afghanistan National Army Address Local Water Concerns During Operation New Dawn

SOUTHERN SHORSURAK, Afghanistan — The relationship between the Marines and Afghanistan National Army, and the Afghans in Southern Shorsurak, Afghanistan, reached a new level when more than a dozen men met with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, and ANA leadership for a shura to discuss concerns, as well as determine what type of civil affairs projects the area would benefit most from as part of Operation New Dawn, June 26.

Continue reading "Marines, Afghanistan National Army Address Local Water Concerns During Operation New Dawn" »

June 25, 2010

Hawaii Marine awarded Bronze Star Medal with Combat V

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII — Editor’s note: this is the second installment of a two-part series on heroism.

Cpl. Marc Anthony Madding, formerly a mortarman with Weapons platoon, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with combat distinguishing device June 3 for “heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy as an Embedded Advisor, Embedded Training Team 5-4, 201st Corps, Afghanistan National Army, on 23 December 2008, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.”

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Four Twentynine Palms Marines killed this month in Afghanistan

Men died in separate incidents during June

Military officials Thursday announced the deaths of four Marines based at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms who were killed this month while serving in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

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June 24, 2010

Engineer falls victim to IED, leaves heritage of honorable service

CAMP DELARAM II, HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — With our nation at war, young men and women have constantly answered the call to bear arms and protect the nation’s way of life. With every war come casualties. On June 16, Cpl. Jeffrey Standfest was counted among many of America’s fallen warriors.

Continue reading " Engineer falls victim to IED, leaves heritage of honorable service" »

June 23, 2010

Governor Orders Flags Lowered for US Marine

Flags To Be Lowered Friday For Cpl. Jeffrey R. Standfest

LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm has ordered U.S. flags be lowered statewide to honor a 23-year-old Marine from St. Clair County who was killed in Afghanistan.

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Marine absorbs IED blast, walks away

SOUTHERN SHORSURAK, HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — Cpl. Matt Garst should be dead.

Continue reading " Marine absorbs IED blast, walks away" »

June 17, 2010

America's Battalion, Afghan Army Complete First Task in Operation New Dawn

SOUTHERN SHORSHORK, Afghanistan - Marines from Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, in partnership with the Afghanistan National Army, successfully completed their first task of establishing an observation post in support of Operation New Dawn in Southern Shorshork, Helmand province, Afghanistan, June 17.

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June 6, 2010

Birth of a Motto: in Helmand Province, 3/3 H&S; Marines Prove Their Versatility, Mettle

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Helmand province, Afghanistan — The phrase, "every Marine a rifleman" is so overused it's gone from motto to cliché, but if Cpl. Eric Ramirez has his way, a new battle cry will emerge — every Marine an infantryman.

Continue reading "Birth of a Motto: in Helmand Province, 3/3 H&S; Marines Prove Their Versatility, Mettle" »

June 3, 2010

'All Vics, We Are Oscar Mike': MWSS-274 Saves Money, Assets With Logistics Convoys

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – This ain't no Sunday joy ride – it's a trip through what is arguably the most dangerous province in the world on what barely constitutes a road under constant threat of ambush and improvised explosive devices.

Continue reading "'All Vics, We Are Oscar Mike': MWSS-274 Saves Money, Assets With Logistics Convoys" »

3rd MAW (FWD) Siblings Serve Together

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Almost three years ago Lance Cpl. Jack Needham locked his sister in the garage with his recruiter –today they are both in Afghanistan supporting 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward).

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June 1, 2010

Family, friends, community mourn local Marine killed in Afghanistan

Editor's note: The transcript of an exclusive Signal interview with Pfc. Suter's father, Chris Unthank, conducted after press time Monday night, follows the story below.

Those attending Memorial Day events at Eternal Valley Memorial Park in Newhall on Monday had arrived ready to reflect on memories of fallen heroes, but few expected so recent a memory as that of young United States Marine Corps Pfc. Jake William Suter, killed in Afghanistan on Saturday morning, Afghanistan time.

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May 29, 2010

Marine Mentors Afghan Soldiers

MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan -- No driver's license, no driver's education courses, no time behind the wheel of a vehicle ever … no problem for one Marine mentor responsible for teaching Afghan National Army soldiers how to drive.

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May 23, 2010

Marines' youth sets them apart

Their age, repeated deployments present unique challenges

Nineteen-year-old Lance Cpl. Tyler Underwood is like a lot of Marines.

Continue reading "Marines' youth sets them apart" »

In the Face of Death: Marine Survives Firefight by 6 Inches

NAWA, Helmand Province, Afghanistan – All Marines endure some risk of serious injury or even death while deployed to combat, but for Lance Cpl. Christopher J. Gray, a few inches and a punctured rifle is all that separated him from a very bad day on the battlefield.

Continue reading "In the Face of Death: Marine Survives Firefight by 6 Inches" »

What's in a Name? Marines of 1/3 in Nawa Honor Fallen Brothers

NAWA, Helmand Province, Afghanistan – Since their deployment to Afghanistan began in November, the Marines of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, have conducted counterinsurgency operations from dozens of positions throughout Nawa District.

Continue reading "What's in a Name? Marines of 1/3 in Nawa Honor Fallen Brothers" »

May 21, 2010

'White Knights prepare for Western Pacific deployment

NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Marines and sailors gathered with their families on the piers here Wednesday to bid farewell to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (Reinforced), as they set sail on a Western Pacific tour with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable).

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3rd MAW Marines in Afghanistan Train to Save Lives

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marines in Afghanistan face the all too grim reality that their fellow devil dogs could go down at any given moment, falling victim to an improvised explosive device, ambush or sniper attack. If a corpsman is not nearby to render aid, someone will have to jump to the rescue.

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May 20, 2010

Yuma Marine honored with name on VMA-214 Harrier

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. — The Marine Attack Squadron 214 Black Sheep honored one of their plane captains by painting his name onto the squadron commander’s AV-8B Harrier, which was unveiled at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Ariz., May 13, 2010.

Continue reading "Yuma Marine honored with name on VMA-214 Harrier" »

May 19, 2010

Village medical outreach provides care to Afghans

NAW ABAD, Afghanistan — Marines and medical officers from Brigade Headquarters Group and 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD) and an Afghan national army medic from Camp Shorabak, Afghanistan, set up a village medical outreach, May 15, outside the village of Naw-Abad, to provide medical care to the people of that area.

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May 17, 2010

Marines, Afghan National Army Clear Roadways of IEDs

PATROL BASE BUJI, Helmand province, Afghanistan- Marines with 3rd Route Clearance Platoon, Alpha Company, 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, have a unique and dangerous mission within the Marine Corps.

Continue reading "Marines, Afghan National Army Clear Roadways of IEDs" »

May 15, 2010

1,000 Hawaii Marines depart for Afghanistan deployment

Battalion back in the fight with 7-month tour in Afghanistan

KĀNE'OHE BAY — Marine Corps Gunner James Law was a tender-talking dad one minute and tough-as-nails Marine the next.

Continue reading "1,000 Hawaii Marines depart for Afghanistan deployment" »

May 14, 2010

300 Kaneohe Marines Head Back To Afghanistan

3rd Marine Regiment Most Deployed, Suffered Most Casualties

KANEOHE, Hawaii -- Members of the 3rd battalion, 3rd marine regiment from the Marine Corp Base Hawaii at Kaneohe left Afghanistan Friday for a 7 month deployment.

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Welcome to 'The Jungle': MALS-16 Marines Keep Warehouse Running, Squadrons Flying

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – Ever had to track a dozen things at once? How about a hundred? A thousand? Imagine being responsible for buying, receiving, organizing and issuing more than 16,000 different parts required to keep an entire Marine aircraft wing operational in a harsh combat zone.

Continue reading "Welcome to 'The Jungle': MALS-16 Marines Keep Warehouse Running, Squadrons Flying" »

May 11, 2010

Combat Tested: UH-1Y Huey Proves Its Effectiveness

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, "Scarface," arrived in Afghanistan seven months ago with one of the Marine Corps' newest aviation platforms, the UH-1Y Huey.

Continue reading "Combat Tested: UH-1Y Huey Proves Its Effectiveness" »

HMLA-369 Assumes Responsibilities From HMLA-367

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan — Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, "Scarface," transferred responsibilities as 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward)'s light attack aviation unit to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, the "Gunfighters," during a transfer of authority ceremony, May 10.

Continue reading "HMLA-369 Assumes Responsibilities From HMLA-367" »

May 7, 2010

Phantoms return to Combat Center

Families waited anxiously in the darkness for their Phantoms to arrive. When they finally did, loved ones cried, and children jumped and hollered with happiness – their Marines and sailors were back home safely from a seven-month deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan.

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May 6, 2010

Family of local marine killed in Afghanistan carries on his legacy

Carpe Diem - the motto that 1st Lt. Michael Johnson lived by every single one of his 25 years.

Continue reading "Family of local marine killed in Afghanistan carries on his legacy" »

Marines train to deploy at NTC

Marines with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, conducted pre-deployment training at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., March 27 – April 4.

Continue reading " Marines train to deploy at NTC" »

May 2, 2010

Local Marines gain insight from Afghanistan war vets

Marine Wing Support Squadron 373's explosive ordnance disposal team traveled from Miramar, Calif., to train with MWSS-371 and station EOD teams at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, to prepare for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.

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May 1, 2010

Afghanistan on deck for ex-Spartan

On track to be strength coach in NFL, Tate instead chose Marines

"Earned. Never given."

Continue reading "Afghanistan on deck for ex-Spartan" »

April 30, 2010

Unveiling the Lady Ace 09

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. - Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (Reinforced), the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar joined forces commemorating the 35th anniversary of Operation Frequent Wind and the unveiling of "Lady Ace 09," the CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter that evacuated Ambassador Graham Martin from the South Vietnamese Embassy in 1975.

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April 29, 2010

MWSS-274 Marines Survives Near Fatal Accident, Deploys With His Unit

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan - Unconscious, suffering from hypothermia and tangled in his seatbelt upside down in a ditch flooded with water, survival seemed like a far shot for one Marine from Marine Wing Support Squadron 274.

Continue reading "MWSS-274 Marines Survives Near Fatal Accident, Deploys With His Unit" »

'Falconers' Keep Eyes on the Sky

CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan – A group of Marines helped safely land dozens of aircraft here today – they're neither pilots nor crew chiefs.

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April 26, 2010

Ospreys Flying High, Fast Supporting War in Afghanistan

CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan – "You guys ready to go fast?"

Continue reading "Ospreys Flying High, Fast Supporting War in Afghanistan" »

Afghan airfield named for Iron Range Marine

A 2-million-square-foot airfield in southern Afghanistan has been named in honor of a Marine from the Iron Range who was killed in action in October while fighting the war on global terrorism in that country.

A 2-million-square-foot airfield in southern Afghanistan has been named in honor of a Marine from the Iron Range who was killed in action in October while fighting the war on global terrorism in that country.

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April 22, 2010

Single Marine Program use in Yuma up 500%

With shifts toward community service and greater Marine participation, the station’s Single Marine Program recently reported a more than 500 percent increase in participation over the past eight months.

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April 21, 2010

No Place to Run: HMLA-367 Marine Helps Locate, Close-with, Destroy Enemy

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Afghanistan — When Marines kick in doors and begin to put rounds down range, some insurgents flee — a Huey pilot helped create a way to stop them before they slip through the cracks.

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Nearly 1,500 Pounds of Donated Supplies Shipped to Middletown Marine in Afghanistan

MIDDLETOWN – Nearly 1,500 pounds of supplies and snacks donated by locals are on their way to Afghanistan to USMC 1st Lt Nicholas Abbate.

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April 16, 2010

VMU-1 Deploys to Afghanistan

Children ran throughout Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1's headquarters Tuesday while parents, spouses and friends stood with their Marines and Sailors, spending as much time as possible with their loved ones before the service members loaded the buses and departed for Afghanistan.

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April 15, 2010

Marines in Nawa Pass Torch to Embedded Partnering Team to Train ANA Soldiers

NAWA, Afghanistan – Transforming a battalion of Afghan soldiers into an effective and independent combat unit is no easy task, and the three-man team from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, knows the recent arrival of an embedded partnering team here means a bright future for Afghan soldiers in Nawa.

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April 14, 2010

Hawaii Marine recounts Wanat: 'I wasn't going to be taken alive'

Kāne'ohe Marine recalls deadly battle of Wanat

In a now-famous battle in the mountains of eastern Afghanistan, Marine Staff Sgt. Luis Repreza had a dwindling supply of rifle ammunition and one grenade — which he intended to use on himself if his position was overrun by enemy fighters.

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April 11, 2010

Eyes in Sky Give Advance Notice to Ground Troops

If knowledge is power, than gathering information about enemy forces is crucial. Observing the movement or posture of the enemy greatly aids in battle planning.

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April 9, 2010

New Kennel on Okinawa Expands Working Dogs' Capabilities

A new facility for military working dogs had its official opening April 5 on Camp Hansen.

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Marines to dispose of bomb kept inside home for 40 years

By David Allen and Chiyomi Sumida, Stars and Stripes
Online Edition, Friday, April 9, 2010

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — A live anti-tank explosive that was displayed in a home for 40 years and has sat in an Okinawa woman’s backyard for the past five months will be destroyed soon by a U.S. Marine Corps disposal team.

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April 8, 2010

Female troops take on new role in Afghanistan

By Jessica Binsch - Medill News Service
Posted : Thursday Apr 8, 2010 12:55:46 EDT

Teams of female Marines are stepping off their bases in Afghanistan and entering villages to build relationships with an often overlooked sector of the Afghan population: women.

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April 6, 2010

Marines Train to Be First Line of Defense for Camp Leatherneck

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - While laying down a hail of gunfire, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion trained a new batch of Marines from various units April 2 to assist in maintaining the first line of defense for Camp Leatherneck.

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April 4, 2010

3rd MAW (Fwd.) Assumes Responsibilities From MAG-40

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Marine Aircraft Group 40 transferred responsibilities as the aviation combat element of Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) during a transfer of authority ceremony, April 4.

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April 3, 2010

Marines Teach Nawa Students Dodgeball; First Girl Attends School

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GERONIMO, Afghanistan – "You're out!" Nine Afghan children shouted at Bayhodulla in Pashto March 31 after a soccer ball flew through the air and tagged him on his shoulder.

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April 1, 2010

Logistics Marines, ROK Marines train together side by side

The sharp cracks of simunition rounds being sent downrange echoed throughout the military operations in urban terrain facility as Marines - Korean and American - flowed side by side like water through the town ridding it of mock insurgents.

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March 27, 2010

Arrival at Camp Leatherneck

Some of the final groups of Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) landed aboard Camp Leatherneck's flight line in the cool morning hours March 27 to begin their one-year deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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March 26, 2010

Adviser Training Group Trains Marines on Afghan Customs, Culture

Instructors from the Combat Center's Adviser Training Group are providing cultural awareness and language training to service members deploying to Afghanistan to help them accomplish their mission.

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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.

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March 25, 2010

Marines display versatility in every clime, place

Marines participating in Exercise Key Resolve 2010 woke up to heavy snowfall at Camp Mujuk, Republic of Korea March 9.

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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

9th ESB completes training for Afghanistan deployment

Marines and sailors from 9th Engineer Support Battalion from Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, wrapped up their Enhanced Mojave Viper training at the Combat Center with the completion of building a forward operating base March 12.

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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.

---

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

New Building Number System Benefits Nawa Citizens, Afghan Government

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Usually tagging a wall with spray paint is grounds for punishment, but for Marines and sailors of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, it's all in a day's work in Afghanistan

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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.

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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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Right to Bear Arms: Ordnance Marines Arm MAG-40

CAMP DWYER, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – The ordnance technicians for Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367 "Scarface," Marine Aircraft Group 40, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, sat and waited for the troops-in-contact call, and when it came, without hesitation, they sprinted through the gravel toward the helicopter landing zones to arm aircraft and get them back into action for combat operations in Marjah.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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March 1, 2010

Afghanistan Bound, MTACS Marines Train to Fight

Before Marines go overseas, they must learn skills beyond their primary job and be ready for deployment.

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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.

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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.

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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 26, 2010

Korean War vets tell their stories

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii — Dozens of Marines, sailors and Republic of Korea service members with U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, gathered for a Korean War presentation Feb. 25 at the Sunset Lanai, Camp H.M Smith Hawaii.

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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."

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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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Marines Near Marjah Hold First Meeting With Elders, Kill Taliban Attackers

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – A patrol of Marines and Sailors of Combined Anti-Armor Team 1 and Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, held their first impromptu meeting with village elders in the "Five Points" area Feb. 14, and only moments later came under hostile fire from Taliban attackers.

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Family calls fallen Marine 'our hero'

Charlottean Noah Pier killed in Afghanistan, fighting for a cause "he believed in."

Lance Cpl. Noah Pier always wanted to be a Marine, and his family said they'll miss his "laughter and love of life."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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February 15, 2010

The Marines move on Marja: A perilous slog against Afghanistan's Taliban

MARJA, AFGHANISTAN -- For the Marines of Charlie Company's 3rd Platoon, Sunday's mission was simple enough: Head west for a little more than a mile to link up with Alpha Company in preparation for a mission to secure the few ramshackle government buildings in this farming community.

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U.S., Afghan Troops Battle Snipers in Marjah Offensive

MARJAH, Afghanistan—U.S. Marines sent reinforcements to a beleaguered outpost where insurgent fighters were using women and children to carry weapons and shield their attacks on coalition forces.

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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.

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February 14, 2010

Battle for Marjah touches home

Readiness officers prepare the families of isle Marines to cope with wartime stress

With about 1,000 "Lava Dogs" from the Kaneohe Marine Corps base participating in the battle for Marjah, Afghanistan, base officials here are providing information and comfort to the Marines' worried loved ones back home.

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Thai military to use intel from exercise in battle against insurgents in south

By Erik Slavin, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, February 14, 2010

NA JOMTIEN, Thailand — Thai and U.S. troops spent much of the Cobra Gold exercise the last two weeks fighting a computer-simulated war in which they were to support a United Nations peace-keeping mandate in a fictional country and clash with a dissenting minority group.

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Troops face gunfights and minefields in offensive against Taliban in Afghanistan

MARJA, AFGHANISTAN -- U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers encountered pockets of stiff resistance and extensive minefields as they sought to press into this Taliban sanctuary in southern Afghanistan on Saturday.

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Errant U.S. Rocket Strike Kills Civilians in Afghanistan

MARJA, Afghanistan — An errant American rocket strike on Sunday hit a compound crowded with Afghan civilians in the last Taliban stronghold in Helmand Province, killing at least 10 people, including 5 children, military officials said.

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U.S. Troops Encounter Snipers, Bombs in Afghanistan Offensive

Feb. 14 (Bloomberg) -- U.S.-led forces encountered sniper fire and remote-controlled bombs as they fought for a second day to clear a Taliban stronghold in southern Afghanistan, NATO and Afghan officials said.

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U.S. and Afghan Troops Expand Control in Marjah

MARJAH, Afghanistan—Taliban insurgents tried to overrun a U.S. Marine outpost with a combination of rocket-propelled grenades and suicide bombers in a brazen attack just after sundown on Sunday.

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Marines, Afghan troops seek to secure their hold on Marja

On the offensive's second full day of fighting, Afghan officials say 27 insurgents have been killed. NATO reports 12 civilian deaths from a rocket strike and suspends use of the weapons involved.

Reporting from outside Marja and Kabul, Afghanistan — Insurgent holdouts in the town of Marja on Sunday aimed sporadic but sometimes intense fire at U.S. Marines and Afghan troops seeking to solidify their hold on the southern Afghan town.

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Troops, Taliban battle for second day in Afghan offensive

Marjah, Afghanistan (CNN) -- The Taliban put up a stiff resistance Sunday, as a coalition assault against the militant group entered its second day in southern Afghanistan.

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Marine commander says it could take weeks to fully reclaim Taliban haven

MARJAH, Afghanistan (AP) — It could take weeks to reclaim the Taliban stronghold of Marjah, a top Marine commander said Sunday as thousands of U.S. troops and Afghan soldiers fought for a second day in NATO's most ambitious effort yet to break the militants' grip on Afghanistan's dangerous south.

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February 13, 2010

US, Afghan troops sweep into Taliban stronghold

MARJAH, Afghanistan — Thousands of U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers stormed the Taliban stronghold of Marjah before dawn Saturday, sweeping by air and ground against scattered resistance into the biggest southern town under militant control. The massive offensive was aimed at breaking the Taliban grip over a wide area of their southern heartland.

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Attack Gives Marines a Taste of War

MARJA, Afghanistan — The helicopters landed before dawn Saturday in a poppy field beside a row of mud-walled compounds. The Marines ran into the darkness and crouched through the rotor-whipped dust as their aircraft lifted away.

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Surprise tactic in Afghanistan offensive befuddles Taliban

LASHKAR GAR, Afghanistan -- U.S. Marines and Afghan forces were airlifted over the Taliban-laid minefields into the center of town in Marjah Saturday, apparently surprising the insurgents and taking strategic positions from them, according to military officials.

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Coalition troops find 'minimal interference' in assault on Taliban

Marjah, Afghanistan (CNN) -- The major coalition assault against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan claimed the lives of two coalition troops, but military officials regard the hours-old push in war-ravaged Helmand province as very promising.

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Marines spearhead major Afghanistan offensive

MARJAH, Afghanistan (Reuters) - U.S. Marines spearheaded one of NATO's biggest offensives against the Taliban in Afghanistan on Saturday, in an early test of President Barack Obama's troop surge policy.

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Marines take key positions in Marja

OUTSIDE MARJA and KABUL, Afghanistan _ Picking their way through a dense tangle of homemade bombs, U.S. Marines on Saturday seized key positions in the Taliban stronghold of Marja, as thousands of coalition troops consolidated their hold on a wide swath of desert and farm territory surrounding the southern Afghan town.

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Bombs slow U.S. advance in Afghan town

2 NATO troops, at least 20 insurgents reported killed on first day of assault

MARJAH, Afghanistan - Bombs and booby traps slowed the advance of thousands of U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers moving Saturday through the Taliban-controlled town of Marjah — NATO's most ambitious effort yet to break the militants' grip over their southern heartland.

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Anti-Taliban Attack: 'Key Objectives Secured'

More than 1,000 British troops engaged in the launch of Operation Moshtarak in Afghanistan have secured their "key objectives", the Ministry of Defence has said.

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February 12, 2010

Marines' life-and-death decisions in the 'fighting hole'

For the assault on Marja in southern Afghanistan, Marines are drilled yet again about the inadvertent killing of civilians, which could undermine what they are trying to accomplish.

Reporting from The Outskirts Of Marja, Afghanistan - The Marines of Charlie Company had just landed outside Marja and were itching for the fight with the Taliban when they learned that a group of Afghans with shovels and wheelbarrows were digging holes in the road nearby.

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Marines launch offensive in southern Afghanistan town

The long-discussed operation against the Taliban in Marja is one of the biggest of the war. Along with targeting the insurgents' grip on Helmand province, it's a test of the Afghan army's abilities.

Reporting from Kabul, Afghanistan, and The Outskirts Of Marja, Afghanistan -- Thousands of U.S., British and Afghan troops moved to seize the Taliban stronghold of Marja early Saturday in what the Marine general leading the assault called a "big, strong and fast" offensive aimed at challenging the insurgency's grip on a key southern Afghan province.

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Coalition Troops Storm a Taliban Haven

MARJA, Afghanistan — Thousands of American, Afghan and British troops attacked the watery Taliban fortress of Marja early Saturday, moving by land and through the air to destroy the insurgency’s largest haven and begin a campaign to reassert the dominance of the Afghan government across a large arc of southern Afghanistan.

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U.S. Marines launch major offensive in Afghanistan

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN -- Thousands of U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers traveling in helicopters and mine-resistant vehicles began punching into a key Taliban stronghold in southern Afghanistan early Saturday, as one of the largest operations to assert government control over this country got underway.

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February 11, 2010

Marines roll out Assault Breacher Vehicles for Marjah Afghanistan offensive

When Marines rumble into the Taliban stronghold of Marjah in Helmand province for one of the largest offensives of the Afghanistan war, they'll be battle-testing a powerful new weapon, the Assault Breacher Vehicle

When the the Marines currently stacked up in Afghanistan's Helmand province waiting for a long-planned offensive against the Taliban finally make their move, they'll be coming with a powerful new weapon that looks like a cross between a tank and hell's own backhoe.

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US and Afghan troops ring Taliban stronghold

NEAR MARJAH, Afghanistan -
U.S. and Afghan forces ringed the Taliban stronghold of Marjah on Thursday, sealing off escape routes and setting the stage for what is being described as the biggest offensive of the nine-year war.

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U.S. Troops Close Taliban Escape Route Before Major Offensive

NEAR MARJAH, Afghanistan — U.S. and Afghan forces ringed the Taliban stronghold of Marjah on Thursday, sealing off escape routes and setting the stage for what is being described as the biggest offensive of the nine-year war.

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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.

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Marines push 'The Breacher' against Taliban lines

SISTANI, Afghanistan -- In comes "The Joker."

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Taliban, Marines exchange fire as battle looms

NEAR MARJAH, Afghanistan (AP) -- U.S. Marines and Taliban insurgents exchanged gunfire Thursday on the outskirts of Marjah, a southern militant stronghold where American and Afghan forces are expected to launch a major attack in the coming days.

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February 10, 2010

U.S., Afghan Forces Poised to Seize Taliban Stronghold

NEAR MARJAH, Afghanistan — U.S. and Afghan forces pushed Tuesday to the edge of the southern Afghan town of Marjah, poised to seize the major Taliban supply and drug-smuggling stronghold in hopes of building public support by providing aid and services once the insurgents are gone.

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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.

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US Marines under fire ahead of Afghan assault

OUTSKIRTS OF MARJAH, Afghanistan — US Marines came under attack from insurgents armed with sniper guns and rocket-propelled grenades as they geared up Wednesday to overwhelm a Taliban bastion in Afghanistan.

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February 9, 2010

Marjah Marines Brace for Offensive

U.S. Marines Head up Force of 30,000 NATO and Afghan Troops Preparing to Attack Taliban Stronghold

(CBS) It is the eve of battle and today the Marines on the outskirts of Marjah got their marching orders from their commanding officer.

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I'm a Marine, get me out of here!

Troops face fury of animal rights campaigners after eating scorpions and drinking snakes' blood

With tasks such as drinking the blood of a cobra and eating scorpions, you could be forgiven for thinking the latest I’m A Celebrity! series was under way.

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Central Helmand Residents Encouraged to Remain in Homes

LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan - In anticipation of operations in central Helmand, a variety of organizations and individuals, including combined force commanders, have been paying close attention to civilian movements. Commanders in the area are reporting no significant increase in persons moving out of Nad-e Ali District in the last month.

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US Marines expectantly await battle in harsh Afghan desert winter

OUTPOST BELLEAU WOOD, Afghanistan — Take a desert of yellow-orange dust so flat it looks like Mars, with a freezing wind that blows so hard it can lift a large tent.

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US Marines gear up for major Afghan assault

TOOR GHAR, Afghanistan — US Marines on Tuesday stepped up preparations for a major assault on a key Taliban bastion in southern Afghanistan hailed by officers as the biggest offensive of the eight-year war.

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Marines Fight Insurgents, Secure Key Intersection on Road to Marjeh

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines and sailors of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, battled Taliban insurgents, Feb. 9, after conducting a successful helicopter-borne assault to seize a key intersection east of the insurgent stronghold city of Marjeh.

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February 8, 2010

Marines focus on civilian safety in Afghanistan

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Heading into battle to seize a Taliban stronghold, U.S. Marines are keenly aware of one factor that could snatch defeat from the jaws of victory: Afghan civilian casualties.

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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.

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February 7, 2010

Afghan assault to send 'strong signal': McChrystal

KABUL — The commander of foreign forces in Afghanistan said Sunday a major offensive will send a "strong signal" and clear insurgents from their southern stronghold, as residents fled ahead of the assault.

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Taliban dig in for big assault, say Afghan villagers

LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan (Reuters) - Taliban militants are massing and preparing for a big fight ahead of a major NATO offensive in an insurgent stronghold in southern Afghanistan, villagers fleeing the area said on Sunday.

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February 5, 2010

Corpsman recognized for valor in Afghanistan

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION
FUTENMA — “Everybody was kind
of on edge, you could tell,” said Petty
Officer 2nd Class William Harris recently
referring to a mission last July
in Afghanistan.

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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.

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February 2, 2010

Taps

The Marines of Bravo Company left their patrol bases early Saturday morning. To their west were the Taliban pickets who defend the outer limits of Marja, an insurgent enclave in Helmand Province. The Marines turned in the opposite direction, heading to Forward Operating Base Spin Ghar, their company command post.

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February 1, 2010

As Marines Move In, Taliban Fight a Shadowy War

KARARDAR, Afghanistan — The Marine infantry company, accompanied by a squad of Afghan soldiers, set out long before dawn. It walked silently through the dark fields with plans of arriving at a group of mud-walled compounds in Helmand Province at sunrise.

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Counterinsurgency, One Stuck Truck at a Time

Counterinsurgency, in some circles and by some descriptions, can sound like a glamorous military art. More than often it is not.

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January 31, 2010

Marines pressing Afghan army to take larger security role

By John Vandiver, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, January 31, 2010

NAWA, Afghanistan — Marine 1st Sgt. Fredrick Smith was eyeballing the strange-looking convoy of vehicles that had come to a halt near a remote patrol base in the desert wasteland of central Helmand province.

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January 28, 2010

Shave Every Day. Shower Every Two Months.

Patrols are a constant for the Marine infantry in Afghan outposts. The Marine Corps believes that little keeps a unit as safe, as effective or as informed as having a constant — and constantly changing — presence moving over the ground.

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January 26, 2010

Marines in Nawa Honor Two Fallen Brothers, Civilian Journalist

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Hundreds of Marines, sailors and civilians of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, gathered during a memorial service in Nawa to honor two fallen Marines and a civilian journalist.

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January 23, 2010

Foot on Bomb, Marine Defies a Taliban Trap

SHOSHARAK, Afghanistan — If luck is the battlefield’s final arbiter — the wild card that can trump fitness, training, teamwork, equipment, character and skill — then Lance Cpl. Ryan T. Mathison experienced its purest and most welcome form.

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January 21, 2010

Welcome to ‘The Mansion’

Anyone who has spent much time in the Afghan war could guess the sights and the living-standard particulars of Combat Outpost Sullivan, the home in Helmand Province for much of Weapons Company, First Battalion, Third Marines.

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St. Louis Based Marines Among The Last to Leave Iraq

ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI-FOX2now.com) - Some 500 Marines from the St. Louis area are going to be part of a special place in history. They are among the last combat battalion of Marines to leave Iraq. The marines are part of the 3rd Battalion, 24th regiment based at Lambert. They should all be back in the U.S. by the end of January. It's a major step in the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq; a step that many spouses of the marines can't wait to happen.

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January 13, 2010

BLT 2/7 ready for first-time experience

KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, Japan — Though Marines have been deploying alongside their Navy brethren for more than 234 years, there is still room for new adventure and first-time experience within the Corps’ ranks. The Marines and sailors of 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines (BLT 2/7) can testify to that fact as they prepare to embark on the unit’s inaugural deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

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January 10, 2010

Afghan Government Leaders Join Nawa, Marjeh Citizens in Historic First Meeting

NAWA, Afghanistan – Dozens of elder men from Nawa District's Shorshorak area and the city of Marjeh took part in a historic first official meeting between Afghan people and their governmental leaders near Forward Operating Base Fiddler's Green Jan. 8.

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January 8, 2010

Combat Center units leave for 31st MEU

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. —
Hundreds of Marines and sailors from 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment and their augments said goodbye to families and friends this week as they boarded buses, to begin a journey which will take them through the South Pacific as part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

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January 4, 2010

Karzai, McChrystal visit citizens, Marines in Nawa

NAWA, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Dozens of Nawa citizens lined the district center’s main street in the rain to see President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai during his visit here Jan. 2.

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January 3, 2010

Construction Begins on New Chapel, Gym, Rec Center for Marines in Afghanistan After Damage

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – After a helicopter's strong winds leveled the base gym and floodwaters inundated the chapel tent at Forward Operating Base Geronimo three weeks ago, construction is now underway to rebuild and expand these facilities to better serve the Marines and sailors of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment here.

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December 31, 2009

Air drops deliver precious supplies to 1/3 Marines in Afghanistan

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan — In the still winter night near Forward Operating Base Geronimo Dec. 27, a team of Marines from the logistics operations section of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, peered skyward through heat-sensitive thermal monoculars and waited.

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December 27, 2009

Marines Deliver Smiles, Beanie Babies to Afghan Children

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Beanie Babies.

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December 24, 2009

Marines at 'ManBearPig' Patrol in Nawa's Wild West

NAWA, Afghanistan – Within minutes of leaving the protective barriers of Observation Post Khers for a security patrol Dec. 21, a squad of Marines and Afghan national army soldiers heard the sharp pops of small arms fire nearby.

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1/3 Marines Rescue Car From Nawa Canal

NAWA, Afghanistan – When the unoccupied car of a Nawa citizen careened down a steep canal embankment and splashed into the swift, cold waters just outside Forward Operating Base Spin Ghar Dec. 22, Marines quickly came to the rescue.

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December 21, 2009

Marine awarded Navy Cross for Afghan heroics

By Matt Orr, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, December 21, 2009

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — A 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion Marine here received his nation’s second highest award for valor Friday.

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December 18, 2009

Afghan Town's Progress Provides Encouragement

NAWA, Afghanistan - An irrigation ditch bisects the main thoroughfare of this town in Helmand province, and shops line each side of the street.

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December 17, 2009

Marines Hone Afghan Soldiers' Marksmanship

NAWA, Afghanistan — Sayed Alim stood on the firing line, a Marine by his side and M-16 service rifle in his hand. When the whistle blasted, the Afghan National Army soldier quickly spun to his left and delivered two rounds without hesitation nearly center into a 12-inch circle, drawn on a silhouette target.

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JCS Chairman Visits 1/3 Marines in Afghanistan

NAWA, Helmand Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen visited Patrol Base Jaker Dec. 17 to tour the base and the Nawa district center, and spend time with Marines and sailors assigned here.

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December 16, 2009

Christmas in Harm’s Way

Hey, I’m the guy you just about blasted out of his driver’s seat with your horn when we missed the green light at the mall entrance. Anyway, I’m not mad about it. We’re all under a lot of pressure this time of year. Before you know it, Christmas morning arrives, and so there’s not much time to get the right stuff for everyone. And not only did we miss that light because I was daydreaming, but we also would have surely sat through another one if you hadn’t honked, because I really wasn’t there. You couldn’t have known, but I was so very far away at the time, in a place that I’ve actually never been. I was in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan.

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December 11, 2009

31st MEU reflects on 2009

The Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted a combination of exercises and operations during its 2009 patrols of the Asia-Pacific region.

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December 4, 2009

Marines Launch New Offensive in Afghanistan's Helmand Province

Operation Cobra's Anger Is Intended to 'Cut Off Enemy Supply and Communications Lines'

Marines are trying to make good on President Obama's promise to "reverse Taliban momentum" in southern Afghanistan, launching with the first major offensive since the president spoke about his Afghanistan plans Tuesday night.

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US Marines launch large offensive

KABUL, Afghanistan – U.S. Marines and Afghan troops Friday launched the first offensive since President Barack Obama announced an American troop surge, striking against Taliban communications and supply lines in a southern insurgent stronghold, a military spokesman said.

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November 25, 2009

Cookin' Up a Dust Storm: Marine Puts TLC Back Into Chow

COMBAT OUTPOST NUKHAYB, Iraq – In a small corner of Iraq known as Combat Outpost Nukhayb, Marines fended for themselves in the chow hall for some time. When they got a hankering for some down-home cooking, someone whipped up a meal on the four-burner stove, but without much extra time in their busy schedules, many found solace in the microwave oven. Cpl. Ryan Schmidt, a cook with Marine Wing Support Squadron 472, intends to make a few changes to the menu.

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November 17, 2009

Marine Corps Base Hawaii holding memorial service today to honor 10

The Second Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment will hold a memorial service this morning at Marine Corps Base Hawaii to honor nine Marines and one sailor who sacrificed their lives while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom during their deployment this year.

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November 14, 2009

Essex rejoins PHIBRON 11 and 31st MEU during Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force Led Exercise

USS ESSEX, At Sea (Nov. 14, 2009) -- —
In a display of flexibility, coordination and efficiency, more than 1100 Marines, sailors, and assets assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, (MEU) embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and the forward-deployed dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) at White Beach Naval Facility during an in-port reconfiguration, Nov. 9-11.

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November 8, 2009

Afghanistan: Marines bring some calm in Helmand

But many residents in the insurgent heartland fear the U.S. troops may leave abruptly, leaving the area for the Taliban to retake.

Reporting from Nawa, Afghanistan - When 500 U.S. Marines descended on this Taliban stronghold overnight, Afghan civilians were immediately suspicious about the intentions of the heavily armed Americans.

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November 6, 2009

300 Marines return home safely from Afghanistan

OKINAWA, Japan (November 6, 2009) -- Approximately 300 Okinawa-based Marines returned from an Afghanistan deployment Sunday.

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November 4, 2009

Students bond with Marine

Sergeant went to thank them for gifts … and got a welcome-home party in return
Just in time for Veterans Day, Marine Sgt. Andrew Valora went to an Oro Valley elementary school last week to give his thanks for a classroom's support while he and others were deployed overseas.

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October 30, 2009

Marines return from Afghan mission

'Island Warriors' suffered 9 deaths on deployment to volatile south and west

KANEOHE BAY — Marine Lance Cpl. Larry Draughn lost both legs and part of his hand in May when he stepped through a doorway and set off a roadside bomb in Helmand province in southern Afghanistan.

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October 29, 2009

Evansville Marine, wounded in Afghanistan, receives electric vehicle

ARLINGTON, Va. - An Evansville Marine injured in Afghanistan was one of 25 soldiers awarded personal mobility vehicles at a ceremony in Arlington, Va., on Thursday.

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San Luis Obispo High alumnus was in helicopter crash that killed four in Afghanistan on Monday

Man loses lower leg in Monday’s helicopter wreck; parents fly from the county to see him

A Marine captain and San Luis Obispo High School alumnus is recovering in a hospital in Germany after he lost one of his lower legs and suffered other serious injuries in a helicopter crash Monday in Afghanistan.

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October 24, 2009

First Marine RCT in Afghanistan Concludes Historic Deployment

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – The most significant Marine Corps operation since the Battle of Fallujah in 2004 and the largest helicopter insertion since the Vietnam War took place July 2 as Marines spread out into the Helmand River valley to secure what was called one of the most violent provinces in all of Afghanistan at the time.

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October 22, 2009

Landslide - Marines bring relief

CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines — Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit traveled to Baguio City, Philippines, to deliver food and clothing to landslide victims Oct. 4.

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October 20, 2009

Red Patchers, Dragons provide essential assets

USS DENVER AT SEA, (Oct. 20, 2009) – — A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter hovers 20-feet above the ground, as Marines below link it to a cargo net filled with relief supplies. A signalman from Landing Support Platoon (LS Plt.) gestures to the pilot and the helicopter takes off baring the 14,000-pound load.

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October 16, 2009

Marines Clear Taliban From Buji Bhast Pass

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM, Farah Province, Afghanistan – Marines from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment conducted Operation Germinate to clear Taliban insurgents out of a pass through the Buji Bhast Mountains near here Oct. 6-10, 2009. The pass is the most direct route from the southern plain here to the district center of Golestan District in the mountains, where part of 2/3's Company F is located.

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October 7, 2009

The Viper strikes … again

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — The Lava Dogs of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, concluded the second phase of the Clear, Hold, Build Exercise here Monday after five days of combined arms urban operations.

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October 6, 2009

Full Steam Ahead for Humanitarian Assistance Operations in Pacific Region

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan (October 6, 2009) -- In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ketsana that struck the Republic of the Philippines Sept. 25, U.S. Marines and Sailors based in Japan have come to the aid of the Philippine people.

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October 3, 2009

Kaneohe Marine killed, another hurt during training exercise in California

A Kaneohe Marine was killed and another was injured when the truck they were riding in crashed near San Diego on Wednesday during a training exercise.

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October 2, 2009

Marines, Sailors Bring Aid to Philippines

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, Japan, Oct. 2, 2009 – The U.S. military is providing critically needed disaster-relief supplies to mitigate suffering and prevent further loss of life in the wake of Tropical Storm Ketsana, which struck the Philippines on Sept. 25.

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September 28, 2009

31st MEU commences fall patrol of the Asia-Pacific region

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 28, 2009) – — Approximately 2000 Marines and sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) kicked off their Fall Patrol of the Asia-Pacific Region, Sept. 27.

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September 27, 2009

Marines Investigate Insurgents' Underground Highway

FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELARAM, Nimruz province, Afghanistan – Some people go cave exploring for fun, but when there is a possibility of stumbling on explosive materials, an armed enemy or a nasty surprise they've left to be triggered in the dark, it's about as far from fun as you can get.

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Marines See Change in Bakwa

COMBAT OUTPOST BAKWA, Farah province, Afghanistan – The Marines here have found fighting insurgents alone won't bring peace in this region. Experience has shown that Marines must also develop strong relationships with the locals to bring about positive change.

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September 23, 2009

Marines go shopping to win Afghan hearts and minds

GOLESTAN, Afghanistan — Toting assault weapons while strolling among vegetable shops in combat gear may look strange, but US Marines believe buying groceries is key to winning Afghan hearts and minds.

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September 12, 2009

54 Hours of Valor: female Marine awarded Combat V

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII —
First Lt. Rebecca M. Turpin received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device at Combat Logistics Battalion 3’s Warriors’ Field Sept. 4, for her actions under enemy fire during the battalion’s last deployment to Afghanistan from October 2008 to May 2009.

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September 3, 2009

AP IMPACT: Calm _ Then Sudden Death In Afghan War

DAHANEH, Afghanistan (AP) ― The pomegranate grove looked ominous.

The U.S. patrol had a tip that Taliban fighters were lying in ambush, and a Marine had his weapon trained on the trees 70 yards away. "If you see anything move from there, light it up," Cpl. Braxton Russell told him.

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Journal Entries Of AP Photographer In Afghanistan

(AP) The operation started really early Wednesday morning on this town called Dahaneh. It's south of Now Zad a few miles. It is Taliban-controlled. Alfred (Associated Press writer Alfred de Montesquiou), and Ken (AP Television News Cameraman Ken Teh) were put on the assault helicopter which landed outside the compounds they intended to raid. I was stuck on a 7-ton truck with ANA (Afghan National Army) soldiers, an NPR reporter and another American guy, who is a civilian military adviser.

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August 31, 2009

Homecoming For Local Wounded Soldier

FAIRBORN, Ohio -- It was a homecoming in Fairborn for a disabled Marine who got a hero’s welcome from thousands of people.

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August 28, 2009

Local Marine loses both legs, not his spirit

FAIRBORN — Marine Lance Cpl. Larry Draughn Jr. credits his remarkable recovery after losing both legs in Afghanistan on May 31 to his stubbornness and something he learned from his late father.

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Danger Room in Afghanistan: The Taliban Push Back

MIANPOSHTEH, AFGHANISTAN – Two months ago, the Marines of Echo company pushed into this farming community, set up a series of outposts, and launched a series of patrols and raids to put the Taliban on their heels. On Thursday, the militants struck back, attacking four different Marine units in seven hours and dealing Echo company its first casualty in more than three weeks. One Marine was shot through the chest and arm, but is expected to make a full recovery.

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August 24, 2009

Marines Find Afghan Mission Is A Matter Of Trust

In Afghanistan's Helmand province, one U.S. Marine captain says, militants are like the hairs on your head — pull them out and more grow back.

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August 19, 2009

Afghans register to vote in former Taliban town

DAHANEH, Afghanistan – A week after Dahaneh was pried from Taliban control by U.S. Marines, and little more than 36 hours before Afghans select a president, election workers finally reached this Helmand province town and began to register voters.

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August 17, 2009

Marines find large opium cache near Delaram

NIMRUZ PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines from Company E, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, and soldiers from the Afghan National Army retrieved about 1,300 pounds of opium during a raid of a suspected opium storage compound to the south of the city of Delaram, Nimruz Province, Afghanistan, Thursday, July 30, 2009.

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Marines Walk Afghan Tightrope of Death

We were crouched down in a field, the earth steaming with the heat of the sun and the air thick with humidity. Two Marines were kneeling down beside me.
"All we've done since we got here is get blown up," one of them said. And then they started to talk.

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August 16, 2009

Afghans told they can vote _ as mortar shells fly

KHAWJA JAMAL, Afghanistan — The governor had good news for the Afghans who met him here Sunday: Residents in this southern village can finally register to vote in the upcoming election.

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Essex Says Sayonara to 3/5 BLT, Offloads 31st MEU

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) offloaded the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Aug. 13 after successfully completing Talisman Saber 2009

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August 15, 2009

Female Marines key to reaching Afghan women

By Alfred de Montesquiou - The Associated Press
Posted : Saturday Aug 15, 2009 12:23:02 EDT

KHAWJA JAMAL, Afghanistan — Put on body armor, check weapons, cover head and shoulders with a scarf

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US Marines battle Taliban

US Marines were locked in battle with Taliban fighters late on Friday, as they continued efforts to secure the strategic town of Dahaneh in the southern Afghan province of Helmand.

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August 14, 2009

A day in the life of a Marine combat outpost

ANP HILL, Afghanistan (AP) -- Cpl. Justin Thompson crawled out of his rat hole dug deep into a wind-beaten, barren hilltop. Stepping over mounds of protective sand bags, he watched the sun rise over the Now Zad valley, a Taliban stronghold.

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August 13, 2009

Restrictions limit ability to return fire

By Alfred de Montesquiou - The Associated Press
Posted : Thursday Aug 13, 2009 9:01:47 EDT

DAHANEH, Afghanistan — The British jet called in by U.S. Marines had the Taliban position in sight, but the pilot refused to fire, a decision that frustrated Marines on the ground but was in line with new orders by the top U.S. commander to protect civilians.

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August 12, 2009

Effort Aims to Secure Southern Afghanistan for Elections

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2009 – Hours into the new Operation Eastern Resolve II in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, defense officials report that U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers are confronting “some resistance” as they work to secure the area for the Aug. 20 elections.

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Marines assault Taliban town in Afghanistan

DAHANEH, Afghanistan — Helicopter-borne U.S. Marines backed by Harrier jets stormed a Taliban-held town in southern Afghanistan before dawn Wednesday in an operation to secure the country ahead of presidential elections.

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August 7, 2009

Corpsman killed in Afghanistan

Staff report
Posted : Friday Aug 7, 2009 19:34:14 EDT

Military officials on Aug. 6 identified a sailor killed in southwestern Afghanistan as Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Anthony C. Garcia.

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July 20, 2009

Marines Face Stiff Taliban Resistance

Logistical Difficulties Inhibit Troops During Clashes in Southern Afghan Province

GARMSIR, Afghanistan, July 19 -- Marines pushing deep into a Taliban stronghold in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province battled insurgents in a day of firefights around a key bazaar Sunday, as an operation designed as a U.S. show of force confronted resistance from Taliban fighters as well as constraints on supplies and manpower.

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July 19, 2009

Essex, Australian Forecasters Work Together to Improve Meteorological Teamwork

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) worked closely with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) July 17 to improve combined meteorological efforts during exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09).

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Assault Craft Unit 5, Beachmaster Unit 1 Conduct Successful Beach Landings

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5 and Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 1 took a trip to the beach aboard a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vehicle July 17.

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July 17, 2009

Essex Conducts Amphibious Assault

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted a full-scale amphibious assault off the coast of Australia as part of exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09) July 15.

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July 13, 2009

Crooked Afghan police challenge Marines

By David Guttenfelder and Jason Straziuso - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Jul 13, 2009 17:00:10 EDT

AYNAK, Afghanistan — Afghan villagers had complained to the Marines for days: The police are the problem, not the Taliban. They steal from villagers and beat them. Days later, the Marines learned firsthand what the villagers meant.

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2/3 NCO dies from blast wounds

Staff report
Posted : Monday Jul 13, 2009 16:15:02 EDT

A Hawaii-based Marine died Friday at Bethesda Naval Medical Center in Maryland from wounds suffered during a bombing late last month in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, according to reports.

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July 12, 2009

A Fight for Ordinary Peace

U.S. Marines deployed across an Afghan river valley are waging war on insurgents not by targeting their bases but, rather, by protecting communities.

NAWA, Afghanistan -- Most of the mud-brick stalls that line the street in this sweltering town on the Helmand River closed down a year ago when Taliban fighters began swaggering through the bazaar, levying taxes on merchants and seeding the roads with homemade bombs. Shopkeepers placed their wares behind padlocked tin doors, teachers shuttered the school, the doctor abandoned the health clinic and residents with means fled to other parts of southern Afghanistan

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July 10, 2009

2nd MEB makes gains, expects more fighting

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Friday Jul 10, 2009 18:02:51 EDT

After seven days of seizing poppy-rich areas of southern Afghanistan, the Marine Corps is planning a shift to gain the trust of Afghan civilians but expects the Taliban to return and fight for the land, the top Marine commander there said Wednesday.

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July 8, 2009

Marines push militants out of Taliban region

By Jason Straziuso - The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Jul 8, 2009 9:59:11 EDT

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — U.S. Marines trapped Taliban fighters in a residential compound and persuaded the insurgents to allow women and children to leave. The troops then moved in — only to discover that the militants had slipped out, dressed in women’s burqas.

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July 7, 2009

U.S. Marines Patrol Through Mine-littered Battlefield

During the day and night, the Marines of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Company G bravely patrol through the mine-infested city of Now Zad.

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July 6, 2009

Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan Gauges Progress in Farah

FARAH PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – "Everyone always looks forward to going outside the wire on missions," said Army Staff Sgt. John Smith, an infantryman who provides security for Provincial Reconstruction Team-Farah in Afghanistan's Farah province.
"They enjoy meeting the local population and watching the children play.
That's our motivation, to see how happy the children are and that they now have a future ahead of them."

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July 5, 2009

Marines battle heat, small-arms fire in Afghanistan

NAWA, Afghanistan – Taliban militants were nowhere in sight as columns of U.S. Marines walked for a third day Saturday near this town in southern Afghanistan, but the desert heat proved an enemy in its own right.

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Marine seeking medical items to establish clinic

Capt. Paul Webber is serving in Afghanistan

A U.S. Marine from the foothills who has a knack of finding himself in the thick of the fray is asking area residents to help aid American efforts in Afghanistan.

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Americans ship out

A CROWD has gathered at Cairns' wharf to farewell the USS Tortuga and USS Essex.

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June 30, 2009

Stalemate in Afghan town shows task ahead

By Chris Brummitt - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Jun 30, 2009 19:17:11 EDT

NOW ZAD, Afghanistan — Marines patrol slowly along streets laced with land mines and lined with abandoned shops, clinics and homes. As night falls over this Afghan ghost town, the only sounds are the howling of coyotes and the creaking of tin roofs in the wind.


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June 21, 2009

Afghan firefight shows challenge for US troops

NOW ZAD, Afghanistan -- The vehicles were heading to inspect a suspected tunnel when the Taliban struck, firing mortars that landed close by. Machine gunners atop the vehicles and troops in an open-sided truck scanned the scene for plumes from weapons fire.

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June 1, 2009

Isle Marines join Afghan force

More than 1,000 Kaneohe Marines became part last week of the 10,000-member Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, which will beef up counterinsurgency operations with Afghan forces in the southwestern part of the country. They will also train local army and police officers.

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May 1, 2009

Marines Construct World's Largest Aircraft Combat Parking Expansion in Afghanistan

CAMP BASTION, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – From dawn until dusk, a unit of Marines works diligently preparing an aircraft parking expansion to support the scheduled increase of U.S. Marines and service members in the southern region of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, May 1.

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April 6, 2009

150 Kaneohe Marines leave for Iraq

Soldiers hope to build on existing peace

Kaneohe Marines who have deployed more than once to Iraq say the country is now far more peaceful and amenable to community building projects.

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April 4, 2009

Female patrol finds unlikely new ‘sisters’

By Trista Talton - Staff writer
Posted : Saturday Apr 4, 2009 8:19:28 EDT

Marines often speak of brotherhood, but in a remote Afghan village a sisterhood has been born.

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March 12, 2009

Urban combat skills addressed

S. Korean marines trained by U.S. forces at Rodriguez Range

By Jimmy Norris, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, March 12, 2009

The crack of small-arms fire filled the air at Rodriguez Range on Tuesday as troops from the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment worked with South Korean marines to sharpen their urban combat skills.

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March 9, 2009

U.S., South Korea begin exercise amid North Korea’s threats

By Jimmy Norris, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, March 9, 2009

SEOUL — The annual Key Resolve/Foal Eagle exercises were to kick off Monday, scheduled to last through March 20.

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February 22, 2009

Marines and family gather to recall sergeant who saved comrade’s lives

By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, February 22, 2009

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — Tears as well as chuckles filled the small chapel here Friday during a memorial service for Sgt. Michael H. Ferschke Jr.

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February 16, 2009

Cobra Gold 2009: U.S., Thai forces practice landing in heat, rough seas

By Kevin Baron, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, February 16, 2009

HAT YAO, Thailand — More than 500 U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Royal Thai Marine Amphibious Assault Vehicle Battalion stormed the beach here Friday in a combined exercise that kicked off the final weekend of Cobra Gold 2009.

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February 15, 2009

31st MEU in Thailand for Cobra Gold

Staff report
Posted : Sunday Feb 15, 2009 12:54:57 EST

Members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit have spent the past 10 days in Thailand for the multinational exercise Cobra Gold, which wraps up Tuesday.

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February 13, 2009

Volunteers Work to Build New Playground in 3 Days

The pressure is on for hundreds of volunteers who plan to build a playground in four days.
The Marines have landed at Aikahi Playground, some 360 of them from Marine Corps Base in Kaneohe, to help with an ambitious task; start building a playground Friday and finish it by Monday.

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February 11, 2009

Cobra Gold 2009: Building trust high on the agenda

By Kevin Baron, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, February 11, 2009

GULF OF THAILAND, Thailand — From its serene northern mountains dotted with Buddhist temples to the lowland coastal plains lined with coconut plantations, Thailand this week is covered with a thick haze and nearly 7,000 U.S. troops — joined by more than 4,000 others from Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and Singapore — who have come for the 28th annual Cobra Gold exercise.

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February 6, 2009

Above and beyond the call - Marine stays in the fight, earns Bronze Star with 'V'

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — I began my duty in 1944 and have no plans to retire.

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January 29, 2009

31st MEU Kicks-Off Spring Patrol

USS ESSEX, At sea (January 29, 2009)--The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit commenced their annual Spring Patrol of the Asia Pacific region Jan. 28.

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January 8, 2009

Okinawa-based gunny receives Silver Star

By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Jan 8, 2009 19:44:20 EST

A gunnery sergeant was awarded the Silver Star on Thursday, four months after he helped fight off insurgents in Iraq by calling for his vehicle to be rammed into a building, then leading the recovery of a wounded Marine inside.

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December 24, 2008

Pentagon IDs Marine killed in Iraq

The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Dec 24, 2008 15:44:19 EST

LONDON, Ky. — A 19-year-old Marine from Kentucky was killed in a surprise attack in Anbar province, Iraq, his mother said.

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December 19, 2008

31st MEU Reflects on '08

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan-- —
The Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted a mixture of exercises and operations as they patrolled the Asia-Pacific region during 2008.

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November 24, 2008

Gates: Peralta evidence left room for doubt

Lawmakers’ pleas for award of Medal of Honor denied

By Dan Lamothe
[email protected]
Nov. 24, 2008

Defense Secretary Robert Gates has rebuffed pleas from Capitol Hill to award the Medal of Honor to a Marine who died smothering a grenade, saying “the evidence presented did not meet the exact­ing ‘no doubt’ standard necessary.” The comments came in a Nov. 18 letter Gates sent to eight members of California’s congressional dele­gation. The group asked President George W. Bush to review a Penta­gon decision announced in Sep­tember to deny Sgt. Rafael Peralta the military’s highest honor.

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November 8, 2008

U.S. Marines hone landing skills with S. Koreans during exercise

By Ashley Rowland, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Saturday, November 8, 2008

SEOUL — About 2,000 U.S. Marines based in Okinawa and mainland Japan stormed a South Korean beach on Thursday during an annual landing exercise with their South Korean counterparts.

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U.S. Marines hone landing skills with S. Koreans during exercise

By Ashley Rowland, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Saturday, November 8, 2008

SEOUL — About 2,000 U.S. Marines based in Okinawa and mainland Japan stormed a South Korean beach on Thursday during an annual landing exercise with their South Korean counterparts.

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November 3, 2008

Another tour in Iraq, another tearful goodbye for Marines

Marines and sailors are headed to Anbar province, but first, the pain of leaving family -- again.

Reporting from Camp Pendleton -- The drill was new to some of the families attached to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369. But it was a familiar and heartbreaking scene Sunday for most, who said goodbye yet again to hundreds of Marines deploying to Iraq for repeat tours.

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October 24, 2008

Building Education From the Ground Up

BAGONG BARRIO, GUIMBA, Republic of the Philippines — The clouds opened up letting the sun shine down on the quiet village of Bagong Barrio, a farming community where an overcrowded school is getting a much needed classroom and a face lift as part of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2009.

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October 15, 2008

Another side of combat

FALLUJAH, Iraq – Most Marines agree taking care of the man on your left and right is the number one concern in combat.

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October 1, 2008

Hawaii delegation joins move to review slain Marine's award

Hawai'i's congressional delegation has added its voices to those seeking a presidential review of the Pentagon's decision to award the late Marine Sgt. Rafael Peralta — whose body shielded others from a grenade blast — a Navy Cross instead of the Medal of Honor.

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September 19, 2008

Bush urged to review denied Medal of Honor

Sergeant covered a grenade with his body to save comrades in Iraq

SAN DIEGO - A California congressional delegation asked President Bush on Friday to posthumously award the Medal of Honor to a Marine who was chosen to receive only the second-highest medal the Navy can bestow for valor.

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September 18, 2008

Marine praised by Bush won't get Medal of Honor

SAN DIEGO - A Marine sergeant singled out by President Bush for throwing his body on a grenade to save his comrades in Iraq will receive the prestigious Navy Cross rather than the nation's highest military award, military officials said.

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31st MEU molds unit cohesion during island-wide exercise

OKINAWA, Japan — As the Marine Corps’ only forward deployed Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the Marines and sailors of the 31st MEU concluded MEU Exercise (MEUEX) 08-2 with plenty of success and lessons learned, Sept. 11.

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September 4, 2008

An Act of Defiance

KARMAH, Iraq – In an act of defiance toward al-Qaida in Iraq, Karmah sheikhs and Marines with Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, recently held their first meeting since a suicide vest attack killed 20 local leaders and key tribal figures and three Marines, June 26, 2008.

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August 22, 2008

A record turnout

SUBYHAT, Iraq – Marines and Sailors with Task Force 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, conducted a cooperative medical engagement in the Karma and Subyhat areas to assist the local population in receiving medical care August 11th and 12th.

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Water flows again in Lahib

LAHIB, Iraq – The desert environment can be harsh on crops and livestock without the steady flow of fresh water, and in a place like Iraq, a fresh flow of water is hard to come by.

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August 2, 2008

Suspects in bombing that killed 2/3 CO nabbed

By Sameer M. Yacoub - The Associated Press
Posted : Saturday Aug 2, 2008 7:18:18 EDT

BAGHDAD — Iraqi troops have captured two suspected insurgents linked to a suicide bombing that killed at least 20 Iraqis and three U.S. Marines, including the battalion commander of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines.

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July 31, 2008

A boost to the economy

KARMA, Iraq – A large percentage of new businesses in the U.S. fail within the first year.Starting a business in Iraq is no different, if not harder, but with the help of Marines with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, four Iraqi businessmen have hopes of beating the odds.

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July 24, 2008

New sheik takes stand against AQI

SITCHER, Iraq (July 24, 2008) – Marines and Iraqi tribal and security officials gathered near the Sitcher Iraqi Police Station to celebrate the inauguration of a new local sheik July 24.

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July 7, 2008

White Knights spread good will through bilateral training

AL JABER AIR BASE, Kuwait — The AV-8B Harrier detachment for Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 (Reinforced), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is currently conducting a series of bilateral training exercises with their Kuwaiti counterparts as part of exercise Eager Mace 2008.

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June 28, 2008

Suicide bomber kills 3 Hawaii Marines

Battalion commander among suicide bomber's victims

The commanding officer of a Hawai'i-based battalion of more than 1,000 Marines and sailors died Thursday in Iraq in an attack that also killed two other Kane'ohe Marines, the military said yesterday.

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Suspect held in deadly Iraq bombing

Victims of attack targeting anti-al-Qaida tribal sheiks included 3 Marines

BAGHDAD - A member of an extremist cell believed to be behind a suicide attack that killed more than 20 people including three U.S. Marines has been arrested, the U.S. military said Friday.

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June 27, 2008

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit was activated March 1, 1967, as Special Landing Force Alpha, for operations in Vietnam. It made the first of many amphibious deployments from Okinawa to the coast of Vietnam April 10, 1967. Ten days later, it was committed to Operation Beaver Cafe/Union #1. From May to September, Special Landing Force Alpha was entrusted to ground operations 22 days out of each month. It was during this period of intense combat that Special Landing Force Alpha earned the Presidential Unit Citation. The unit participated in supporting operations ashore during the following three years, returning to Okinawa periodically for re-outfitting and the rotation of forces.

Continue reading "31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History" »

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit was activated March 1, 1967, as Special Landing Force Alpha, for operations in Vietnam. It made the first of many amphibious deployments from Okinawa to the coast of Vietnam April 10, 1967. Ten days later, it was committed to Operation Beaver Cafe/Union #1. From May to September, Special Landing Force Alpha was entrusted to ground operations 22 days out of each month. It was during this period of intense combat that Special Landing Force Alpha earned the Presidential Unit Citation. The unit participated in supporting operations ashore during the following three years, returning to Okinawa periodically for re-outfitting and the rotation of forces.

Continue reading "31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History" »

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit was activated March 1, 1967, as Special Landing Force Alpha, for operations in Vietnam. It made the first of many amphibious deployments from Okinawa to the coast of Vietnam April 10, 1967. Ten days later, it was committed to Operation Beaver Cafe/Union #1. From May to September, Special Landing Force Alpha was entrusted to ground operations 22 days out of each month. It was during this period of intense combat that Special Landing Force Alpha earned the Presidential Unit Citation. The unit participated in supporting operations ashore during the following three years, returning to Okinawa periodically for re-outfitting and the rotation of forces.

Continue reading "31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's History" »

June 4, 2008

USS Essex Group/ 31st MEU Returning to Previously Scheduled Operations

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii (NNS) -- The USS Essex group has been positioned off the coast
of Burma since May 13, ready and able to deliver urgently needed humanitarian assistance to the victims of Cyclone Nargis, but Burma's ruling military junta has repeatedly rebuffed our offers to help.

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Admiral: U.S. ships off cyclone-stricken Myanmar will leave the area

HONOLULU — The top U.S. military commander in the Pacific said Tuesday that Navy ships off cyclone-stricken Myanmar will soon leave the area.

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June 1, 2008

US aid ships could soon leave Myanmar coast

SINGAPORE Defense Secretary Robert Gates says he'll decide within "a matter of days" to withdraw U.S. Navy ships from the coast of Myanmar, because "it's becoming pretty clear the regime is not going to let us help."

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May 29, 2008

2nd Bn., 3rd Marines participate in Operation Gravel Dump

KARMA, Iraq (May 29, 2008) – Along the road nicknamed Chicago, vehicles lined up for miles, each vehicle getting ready to be searched. But they are not going to be searched by Marines, but by local Iraqi Security Forces.

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May 28, 2008

US commander: Navy ships likely to leave Myanmar soon

WASHINGTON (AP) — The senior commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific says the Navy probably will withdraw a group of naval vessels from waters off the coast of Myanmar within days unless the government allows the ships to offload their relief supplies for cyclone victims.

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May 24, 2008

Oahu children, Hawaii Marines deliver teddy bears to Iraqi kids

SITCHER, Iraq — Children shudder at the thought when that time to see the doctor comes around. But children in the Anbar province area received something special to help them cope with their visit to the doctor.

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May 23, 2008

Junta agreement opens door to more Myanmar aid

NAYPYIDAW, Myanmar (Reuters) - Myanmar's junta agreed on Friday to admit foreign aid workers of all nationalities to the delta area worst hit by Cyclone Nargis, in what the U.N. called a breakthrough for aiding survivors.

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May 22, 2008

Marines learn the ropes waiting for OK to aid Myanmar

Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, May 22, 2008

While the USS Essex Amphibious Readiness Group awaits an OK from the Myanmar government to deliver aid to Cyclone Nargis victims, Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit hit the ropes Sunday aboard the ship in international waters off the coast.

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US ships idle at sea as Myanmar rebukes aid

BANGKOK (AFP) — US Navy ships loaded with aid will remain off the coast of cyclone-hit Myanmar, US officials said Thursday, despite a rebuke from the ruling generals who refused any help with "strings attached."

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May 21, 2008

UN chief goes to Myanmar to cajole junta over aid

BANGKOK, Thailand - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon heads to Myanmar on Thursday for the diplomatic challenge of a lifetime — persuading the ruling generals to let in a torrent of foreign assistance for cyclone victims.

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May 20, 2008

International sea convoy awaits mediation by Asian bloc to deliver Myanmar aid

BANGKOK, Thailand: Almost within sight range of Myanmar's cyclone-devastated shore are the USS Essex, USS Juneau, USS Harpers Ferry and USS Mustin. They hold 14 helicopters, two landing craft vessels, two high-tech amphibious hovercraft and about 1,000 U.S. Marines.

Continue reading "International sea convoy awaits mediation by Asian bloc to deliver Myanmar aid" »

Okinawa squadron puts boots on deck for first time

CAMP FIREBIRD, Iraq — Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, currently assigned to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), is the first III Marine Expeditionary Force wing support squadron to deploy in support of the Long War.

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May 18, 2008

Can you hear me now?

AL-ASAD, Iraq — Communication and data exchange are vital tools in the war on terrorism.

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May 17, 2008

Eyewitness: Ship barred from Burma

The US amphibious assault ship, USS Essex, is moored off the coast of Burma, prohibited by the military government from swinging into action to help cyclone victims. The BBC's Nick Bryant reports from aboard the ship.

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May 13, 2008

US Navy ships move closer to Myanmar, ready to help if asked: commander

JAKARTA, Indonesia - Three U.S. Navy ships are sailing toward Myanmar, ready to deliver aid to cyclone victims if the country's military rulers allow it, a top American commander said Monday.

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May 12, 2008

31st MEU arrives in Thailand for Cobra Gold

Staff report
Posted : Monday May 12, 2008 8:09:32 EDT

Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived off the coast of southern Thailand on Thursday to participate in Cobra Gold 2008, a multinational exercise focusing on regional cooperation and humanitarian assistance projects.

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May 9, 2008

Hawaii Marines receive rockin' concert

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 9, 2008) – “You have been rocking the street of Zaidon, right? You have been rocking the streets of Shohabi, right? You have been rocking the streets of Karma, right? Now it’s time to rock Camp Fallujah, so get up out of your seats and have a good time,” said 1st Sgt. Brian Fogarty, First Sergeant, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, while introducing the Southern California band, The Saloonatics, on stage for a concert aboard Camp Fallujah.

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US official: 1 shipment to be allowed to Myanmar

WASHINGTON - The governing military junta in Myanmar has agreed to allow a single U.S. cargo aircraft to bring in relief supplies for victims of a devastating cyclone, the Bush administration said Friday.

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May 8, 2008

Myanmar junta accept aid, not aid workers

Military regime allows in supplies, but visas stalled for relief workers

YANGON, Myanmar - After snubbing a U.S. aid offer, Myanmar indicated Friday that it wants foreign relief to help recover from a devastating cyclone but not foreign workers.

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Pentagon proceeding cautiously on potential aid drop

WASHINGTON (Map, News) - Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday the U.S. military was stepping up preparations for a relief mission in Myanmar, but he said he couldn't imagine air dropping aid without permission from the closed regime.

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31st MEU may assist in cyclone relief

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday May 8, 2008 7:35:15 EDT

President Bush on Tuesday urged the military junta leaders in Myanmar to accept assistance from U.S. Navy ships and Marine forces in the region poised to help the nation recover from a devastating cyclone.

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May 7, 2008

Marines help out on home front

Troops repair vacant public housing units in effort 'to give back'

Some 90 Marines took a break from weapons and combat training yesterday to pick up mops, paintbrushes, sponges and Spackle as they refurbished 30 vacant public housing units.

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U.S. navy ready to help cyclone-ravaged Myanmar

WASHINGTON, May 6 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Navy ships are standing by off Thailand awaiting permission to join relief efforts in cyclone-hit Myanmar, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

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May 6, 2008

US ships standing by for Myanmar relief: Pentagon

WASHINGTON (AFP) — US Navy ships, including an amphibious assault ship with helicopters and US marines, are standing by off Thailand awaiting permission to join relief efforts in cyclone-hit Myanmar, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

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US leads pressure on Myanmar to allow in disaster relief

WASHINGTON (AFP) - The US and Australia led international calls Tuesday for the military junta in Myanmar to ease entry restrictions to allow disaster relief to reach the cyclone-hit country.

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May 5, 2008

Hawaii-based Marines demilitarize patrol base

ZAIDON, Iraq – Marines with Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, demilitarized a patrol base in the Ziadon area, May 1.


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April 30, 2008

Hawaii-based Marines help provide medical care to Iraqis

KARMA, Iraq —
KARMA, Iraq — A convoy of humvees, 7-ton trucks, and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles pull up to a sheik’s home. As they arrive, local citizens, already lined up, wait outside the gate to receive aid through the teamwork of the local government, Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces.

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Arabic made focus for Iraq-bound battalion

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Apr 30, 2008 10:05:39 EDT

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii — When they land in Iraq later this summer, some 200 members of an infantry battalion here will step out better trained and immersed in the Arabic language and culture than ever before.

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April 25, 2008

31st MEU Battalion Landing Team Infantrymen teach urbanized combat course on Okinawa

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan — Combat veterans with Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, conducted military operations on urbanized terrain training in Combat Town April 15 to share lessons learned in Iraq and Afghanistan with the unit’s junior Marines.

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April 24, 2008

2/3 engineers educate Iraqi Army in checkpoint security

DRA DIGILA, Iraq (April 24, 2008) – Marines with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, conducted a joint project with the Iraqi Army, April 23 and 24 in a village on the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq.

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MNF-I Commander visits Island Warriors, tours battlefield

KARMA, Iraq – Gen. David H. Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Forces-Iraq, visited Marines and Iraqi Police at the police headquarters here, April, 23, to survey progress in the area.

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April 20, 2008

Island Warriors open up the Road to Peace

KARMA, Iraq – The small Iraqi city street clamored with singing, dancing and rejoicing. It was a time of celebration.

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April 19, 2008

Hawaii-based Marines help provide medical care to Iraqis

KARMA, Iraq – A convoy of humvees, 7-ton trucks, and mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles pull up to a sheik’s home. As they arrive, local citizens, already lined up, wait outside the gate to receive aid through the teamwork of the local government, Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces.

Continue reading "Hawaii-based Marines help provide medical care to Iraqis" »

April 18, 2008

MEU First to Use Improved Grenade Range

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan - To give Okinawa-based Marines a place to keep their grenade combat skills fresh, Central Training Area officials recently renovated Range 3.

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April 15, 2008

31st MEU Marines, Australian Soldiers work to shelter education

FATULIA, Timor-Leste — Though food, cloths and shelter are known as the three essentials, education is a top priority. Killing two birds with one stone is always better, so when building a school and replacing the roof on another provides the shelter needed to harbor long lasting education, there are few operations more important.

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April 14, 2008

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrives in Timor-Leste to spread goodwill

CAMP CHAUVEL, Timor Leste —
CAMP CHAUVEL, Timor Leste — More than 100 Marines and sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived in Timor-Leste (formerly East Timor) between April 12-14, to participate in a ten-day multiple site medical, dental and engineering civic assistance project and community relations event throughout the country.

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April 7, 2008

Family Support Network Helps Families During Marine Deployments

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, April 7, 2008 – Dealing with a loved one’s deployment can be difficult. But for Marine families based thousands of miles from home, the challenges might seem even more daunting if not for an active family support network in place to help them.

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March 29, 2008

Hawaii Marines construct Improved security for IP station

SITCHER, Iraq (March 29, 2008) – The sun suspended high in the sky, beating down on all who did not seek shelter from its rays. But the mid-day heat did not stop Iraqi workers and the Marines of Company G, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1.

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March 23, 2008

Local man gets a surprising welcome back

When Lance Cpl. Justin Longcor returned after seven months in Iraq he expected to see a few smiling faces.

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March 21, 2008

III Marine Expeditionary Force Band helps celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Koza parade

OKINAWA CITY, OKINAWA, Japan (March 21, 2008) -- Amidst a procession of mostly green-clad paraders, the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band’s tightly-formed ranks of red, white, blue and khaki stood out during the 2nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade along Chuo Park Avenue near Kadena Air Base March 15.

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March 15, 2008

U.S., Indonesian Sailors and Marines give new face to old Javanese school

EAST JAVA, Republic of the Indonesia (March 15, 2008) -- U.S. and Indonesian Sailors and Marines combined engineering efforts to help renovate and refurbish a schoolhouse here, March 15.

Continue reading "U.S., Indonesian Sailors and Marines give new face to old Javanese school" »

March 12, 2008

Coin Ops in the Jungle; U.S., Indonesian Marines practice counter-insurgency operations

CAMP KARANG TEKOK, Republic of Indonesia (March 12, 2008) -- As many U.S. Marines these days know, conducting counter-insurgency operations (COIN) are some of the most difficult operations a Marine can conduct in a combat zone.

Continue reading "Coin Ops in the Jungle; U.S., Indonesian Marines practice counter-insurgency operations" »

March 11, 2008

Fox 2/4 Ride with Kormar in Indonesia

KARENTEKOK, Republic of Indonesia (NNS) -- Marines from Fox Company Battalion Landing Team 2, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conducted bilateral Combat Rubber Raiding Craft beach landing exercises with Indonesian marines at Benungan Beach, March 10.

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March 5, 2008

Island Warriors check on projects in villages

FALLUJAH, Iraq (March 5, 2008) -- “If it must absolutely, positively needs to be destroyed over night, call the U.S. Marines,” is a slogan that can be seen on various t-shirts and bumper stickers, but in Iraq, if it absolutely must be built over night, the Iraqis can call the Marines.

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February 25, 2008

U.S. and Philippine forces exchange knowledge and culture during Exercise Balikatan 2008

CAPAS TARLAC, Philippines (Feb 25, 2008) -- Whether patrolling the open valleys of the Philippine landscape or clearing a triple canopy jungle, U.S. Marines and service members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines found that sharing experiences and expertise is what Exercise Balikatan 2008 (BK ’08) is all about.

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February 21, 2008

Company E patrols the streets of Karma

KARMA, Iraq (Feb. 21, 2008) – Marines and sailors of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, recently arrived to the Al Anbar province, and are currently conducting operations and patrolling the streets here.

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February 18, 2008

Balikatan 08 kicks off with Opening Ceremony

CAMP AGUINALDO, Philippines –Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. service members stood shoulder to shoulder in the Officer’s Club banquet hall Feb. 18, watching the uncasing of the Balikatan Colors, symbolizing the start of this year’s exercise.

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RP-US war games on in Mindanao

Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo officially opened yesterday this year’s joint RP-US Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) military exercises at the Armed Forces Commissioned Officers’ Country Club in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

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February 17, 2008

Island Warriors arrive in Iraq, receive visit from RCT commander

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Feb. 12, 2008) -- Marines and sailors assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, arrived this week for a seven-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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February 14, 2008

When 1,000 Marines move onto USS Essex, ‘it’s three times the work and twice the mouths to feed'

By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, February 14, 2008

ABOARD THE USS ESSEX — It’s a small, floating city run by about 1,100 sailors.

Continue reading "When 1,000 Marines move onto USS Essex, ‘it’s three times the work and twice the mouths to feed'" »

Marines discover crowds help pass all that downtime

By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, February 14, 2008

ABOARD THE USS ESSEX — One Marine with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit who is on his first sea deployment admits he wasn’t sure what to expect.

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February 7, 2008

31st MEU, Essex Expeditionary Strike Group execute a mock helo raid at Camp Schwab

By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, February 7, 2008

CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — The clearing filled with the rhythmic thump of chopper blades as two CH-46 Sea Knights braved the gray skies Tuesday to transport 24 Marines to a landing zone on Camp Schwab for a “raid.”

Continue reading "31st MEU, Essex Expeditionary Strike Group execute a mock helo raid at Camp Schwab" »

January 25, 2008

Lava Dogs beat the odds

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (Jan. 25, 2008) -- Before a combat deployment, every officer and staff noncommissioned officer has hopes of bringing back all their Marines and Sailors safely to be with their loved ones. That goal may seem unattainable to some, but 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, returned from Iraq in October with everyone they left with.

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January 22, 2008

Marine may finally get Medal of Honor

For the better part of three years, the refrain from grunts in the Marine Corps has been, "What about Peralta?"

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January 20, 2008

Scarlett Johansson boosts morale in Kuwait

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait(Jan. 20, 2008) -- If anyone has wondered what can make a battle hardened Marine act like a love-struck high-schooler, the answer is simple—a meet and greet with Scarlett Johansson.

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January 9, 2008

Marines earn bronze stars, respect

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (Jan. 9, 2008) -- When a Marine is under fire from enemy positions, this could be the time their actions determine whether or not they are “heroes.”

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January 4, 2008

3rd LAAD tests battlefield skill in Djibouti

DJIBOUTI, Africa (Jan. 4, 2008) -- The leathernecks of Battery A, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion tested their mettle against the Djiboutian landscape during a fire and movement exercise Dec. 26.

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December 24, 2007

Marines have Christmas Eve party at sea

ABOARD USS TARAWA (Dec. 24, 2007) -- Marine and sailors from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) didn’t let the high humidity of the Arabian Sea and thousands of miles of separation from their families and friends keep them from celebrating Christmas here.

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December 21, 2007

Hooked up; 31st MEU receives Corps' new M777 Lightweight Howitzer

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa (December 21, 2007) -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit received its first M777 Lightweight Howitzers recently on Camp Hansen as part of a Marine Corps-wide artillery upgrade.

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November 28, 2007

United States Marines Visit Cambodia

According to the U.S. Marines, there was a planned port visit to Cambodia for members of the U.S. Navy and Marines. Members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Command Amphibious Squadron 11 and USS Essex arrived in port recently. Cambodia is located next to Thailand and Viet Nam, and due to its location near the equator, is actually in the tropics.

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November 27, 2007

3rd MEB arrives in Bangladesh to aid Sidr victims

DHAKA, Bangladesh (Nov. 27, 2007) -- The 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade staff arrived here Nov. 23 to begin leading U.S. military relief efforts in the wake of Cyclone Sidr, which ravaged the country’s southern coast Nov. 15.

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November 26, 2007

31st MEU, USS Essex Marines, Sailors arrive in Cambodia to foster relations

SIHANOUKVILLE, Kingdom of Cambodia (Nov. 26, 2007) -- Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Command Amphibious Squadron 11 and the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived here, Nov. 26 for a scheduled port visit.

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November 23, 2007

Department of Defense to Provide Humanitarian Assistance to Bangladesh

In support of the United States Agency for International Development’s Office of Foreign Disaster Relief, and in cooperation with the humanitarian community and Bangladesh government, U.S. Pacific Command is providing additional humanitarian assistance to reduce further loss of life and mitigate human suffering resulting from Tropical Cyclone Sidr that recently swept through Bangladesh causing massive flooding and infrastructure damage.

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US marines join cyclone aid effort in Bangladesh

DHAKA (AFP) — US marines arrived to bolster relief efforts in Bangladesh on Friday as concerns mounted for survivors of killer Cyclone Sidr which devastated the disaster-prone nation more than a week ago.

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U.S. Marines Join Cyclone Relief Ops in Bangladesh

U.S. Marines have begun to help survivors of a killer cyclone in Bangladesh which has left thousands without adequate food and clean drinking water, a U.S. Embassy spokesman said Nov. 23.

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Department of Defense to Provide Humanitarian Assistance to Bangladesh

In support of the United States Agency for International Development’s Office of Foreign Disaster Relief, and in cooperation with the humanitarian community and Bangladesh government, U.S. Pacific Command is providing additional humanitarian assistance to reduce further loss of life and mitigate human suffering resulting from Tropical Cyclone Sidr that recently swept through Bangladesh causing massive flooding and infrastructure damage.

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Marines Deliver Water to Cyclone-Stricken Bangladesh

A pair of Marine helicopters lifted from the USS Kearsarge flight deck today with loads of bottled water, marking the first delivery of U.S. military aid to the storm-battered nation of Bangladesh.

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November 21, 2007

Okinawa Marines to assess deadly cyclone damage

By Bryce S. Dubee, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, November 21, 2007

U.S. Pacific Command has sent a 23-man Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team from the III Marine Expeditionary Force on Okinawa to the southern coast of Bangladesh after a powerful cyclone struck the region, according to a III MEF/Marine Corps Bases Japan press release.

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November 20, 2007

U.S. Troops Stand Ready for Bangladesh Cyclone Relief

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2007 – If asked, American troops stand ready to help the victims of Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh, Pentagon officials said today.

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US navy sends marines, helicopters to Bangladesh disaster

WASHINGTON (AFP) — Two US amphibious assault ships are bringing nearly 3,500 marines and more than 30 helicopters to help with relief efforts in Bangladesh, US military officials said Tuesday.

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November 6, 2007

'Red Dragons' fly into theatre to support operations

AL ASAD, Iraq (Nov. 6, 2007) -- The Marines of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 arrived at Al Taqaddum to support service members operating in the Al Anbar province, Sept. 15.


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November 2, 2007

MAG-12 Marines kick off Sumo Tiger in Bangladesh

KURMITOLA AIR BASE, Bangladesh (November 2, 2007) -- Morning mist rose above a jungle-bound airfield in Bangladesh Oct. 25 as aircraft from Marine Fighter-Attack Squadron 314 and the Bangladesh Air Force revved to life to start a day of flight operations during Exercise Sumo Tiger 2007.

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October 13, 2007

The “Dragons” of HMM-265, 31st MEU embark for PHIBLEX ‘08

ABOARD USS JUNEAU (Oct. 13, 2007) -- Calm weather was disrupted by the roar of aircraft and their gusting winds as the “Dragons” approached the tiny ship.

Continue reading "The “Dragons” of HMM-265, 31st MEU embark for PHIBLEX ‘08" »

31st MEU Marines get spun up on ship

ABOARD USS JUNEAU (Oct 13, 2007) -- The crew of the USS Juneau (LPD 10) conducted a welcome aboard brief for Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Essex Expeditionary Strike Group, Oct. 13, here.

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October 12, 2007

31st MEU embarks for PHIBLEX ‘08

OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 12, 2007) -- Considered one of its most challenging embarkation efforts this year, the logisticians of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, III Marine Expeditionary Force, bobbed and weaved their way around obstacles and challenges to ensure its Marines, sailors and gear were ready to set sail Oct. 12, here.

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October 10, 2007

Tortuga Departs for Fall Patrol

USS TORTUGA, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Tortuga (LSD 46) departed Sasebo, Japan, for its semi-seasonal fall patrol throughout the South Pacific region Oct. 8.

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October 5, 2007

Son follows father into Corps, shares time in Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 5, 2007) -- A father is someone that a boy can look up to and admire, someone that a son can emulate in his adulthood. Growing up together learning from each other, the bond between father and son can become strong. Sometimes that bond can be made even stronger with special circumstances.

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October 4, 2007

Joint Raid Routs Insurgents from Hadithah Triad; A joint raid planned and executed in less than 26 hours

SAKRAN WEST, Iraq, Oct. 4, 2007 — Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 2, recently teamed up with 2nd Platoon, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion and Iraqi police in a raid to rout insurgents in the Hadithah Triad.

Continue reading "Joint Raid Routs Insurgents from Hadithah Triad; A joint raid planned and executed in less than 26 hours" »

September 21, 2007

Fields of fire; 9th ESB Marines stay on target during live-fire marksmanship training in Korea

MONTANA FIRING RANGE, Republic of Korea (September 21, 2007) -- Just as the early morning fog started to lift over the Montana Firing Range, Republic of Korea, Sept. 11, Marines from 3rd Marine Logistics Group's 9th Engineer Support Battalion took aim in live fire exercises during the Korean Interoperability Training Program.

Continue reading "Fields of fire; 9th ESB Marines stay on target during live-fire marksmanship training in Korea" »

MCI West releases updated off-limit areas

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2007) -- Marine Corps Installations West recently announced updated off-limit areas and areas of caution for the service members who fall under its command.

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September 14, 2007

Marines in Korea get physical during martial arts training

WARRIOR BASE, Republic of Korea (September 14, 2007) -- Taking advantage of a few training opportunities before the start of Korean Integrated Training Program (Logistics) 07-3, Marines from 3rd Marine Logistics Group's 9th Engineering Support Battalion traded blows during martial arts training.

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ESB Marines arrive in Korea for KITP exercise

PORT OF POHANG, Republic of Korea (September 14, 2007) -- The first wave of Marines from 3rd Marine Logistics Group's 9th Engineer Support Battalion arrived at the Port of Pohang in the Republic of Korea, Sept. 3 in preparation for Korean Integrated Training Program (Logistics) 07-3.

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2/3 begins PTA training cycle on Big Island

POHAKULOA TRAINING AREA, Hawaii (Sept. 14, 2007) -- Marines from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment began arriving here Monday for their annual, roughly three week, combined arms training.

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August 20, 2007

Sergeant returns to new Iraq

BARWANAH, Iraq (Aug. 20, 2007) -- In the Fall of 2004, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines fought in the Battle of Fallujah. It experienced some of the Marine Corps’ most intense urban fighting since Vietnam’s Hue City. That deployment left a lasting effect on this battalion and the individuals involved. Although they are mostly stationed elsewhere or out of the Marine Corps, 1/3 still has a few of its Fallujah Veterans through its ranks and companies. These Marines bring much knowledge and determination with them, and they play a large role in the success this task force has achieved in the Hadithah Triad

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Marines and Iraqi Police host Youth Soccer Day

HADITHAH, Iraq -- The morning of July 4th started out like any other day inside the Hadithah Police Station. The Iraqi Police conducted morning police call, uniforms were set straight, and reports were prepared. The Marines of the Hadithah Police Transition Team (PiTT) gave guidance to their Iraqi counter-parts, making corrections wherever necessary. As the heat began filling the building, the anticipation for the day’s events grew.

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July 13, 2007

Marines combat PTSD

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (July 13, 2007) -- Combat related stress has again become an issue for service members who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Marine Corps recognizes this problem, and has been putting forth their best effort to help treat and cure Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

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July 6, 2007

Tortuga Arrives in Sydney

SYDNEY, Australia (NNS) -- USS Tortuga (LSD 46), elements from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and embarked midshipmen arrived in Sydney July 5 for a scheduled port visit after completing Exercise Talisman Saber 2007 (TS07).

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July 4, 2007

Essex Stops in Townsville

TOWNSVILLE, Australia (NNS) -- USS Essex (LHD 2), commanded by Capt. Brian T. Donegan, arrived in Townsville, July 4 for a liberty port visit after the successful completion of Talisman Saber 2007.

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June 30, 2007

Tortuga makes Talisman Saber 07 training a success

USS TORTUGA, Coral Sea – For more than two weeks, USS Tortuga (LSD 46) along with embarked Marines as well as Midshipmen on summer cruise have been conducting Exercise Talisman Saber 2007 (TS07) alongside their Australian counterparts.

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June 28, 2007

Talisman Saber Team Effort Raises Money for Australian Veterans

ROCKHAMPTON, Australia (NNS) -- Nearly $14,000 raised through a “gold coin” fund-raiser was donated June 25 to Legacy, an Australian nonprofit veteran's charity, during a reception for Talisman Saber 2007 dignitaries in Rockhampton.

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June 25, 2007

Marines make presence known, win hearts and minds

BAGHDAD — U.S. Marines continued counterinsurgency operations in Haditha Sunday in an effort to win the hearts and minds of Iraqi citizens.

Continue reading "Marines make presence known, win hearts and minds" »

June 22, 2007

Field Training Launched for Australian-U.S. Forces in Talisman Saber 07

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Australia and U.S. forces officially began the field training phase of Talisman Saber 2007 on June 19, transitioning from work-up-like integrated training to a combined force executing within a simulated scenario.

Continue reading "Field Training Launched for Australian-U.S. Forces in Talisman Saber 07" »

June 20, 2007

Joint Rapid Airfield Construction exercise

The Joint Rapid Airfield Construction (JRAC) exercise is taking place at the Bradshaw Field Training Area as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 07. The Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA) is 8700 square kilometres in size, 12 times the size of Singapore and 600km south-east of Darwin.

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June 18, 2007

Essex Conducts RAS with Sirius

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7, flagship, USS Essex (LHD 2), conducted a replenishment at sea (RAS) June 15 with the Australian Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment vessel HMAS Sirius (AOR 266).

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June 15, 2007

Juneau Prepares Environmentally for Talisman Saber 07

PACIFIC OCEAN, At Sea -- In preparation for Talisman Saber 2007, Sailors and embarked Marines aboard USS Juneau (LPD 10) are learning environmental protection measures to safely preserve Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

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June 14, 2007

3d MEB, Australian soldiers work together on USS Juneau during Talisman Saber 2007

ABOARD USS JUNEAU (June 14, 2007) -- Side-by-side, Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade took the opportunity to work with soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment here June 14.

Continue reading "3d MEB, Australian soldiers work together on USS Juneau during Talisman Saber 2007" »

June 13, 2007

U.S.–Australian Expeditionary Staffs, Ships Begin 1st Phase of Talisman Saber

ABOARD USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy’s Expeditionary Strike Group 7 ships left Brisbane, Australia, on June 10, while amphibious ships of Royal Australian Navy began the embarkation of Australian soldiers in northern neighbor Townsville, launching the force integration training (FIT) phase of Talisman Saber 2007 (TS07).

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June 12, 2007

Tortuga enhances community relations in Brisbane

BRISBANE, Australia – Sailors aboard USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and embarked Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) took a different kind of off-ship liberty June 7, during their four-day port visit to Brisbane, Australia.

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Australian soldiers, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade join forces for Talisman Saber 2007

ABOARD USS JUNEAU (June 12, 2007) -- Soldiers from the 2nd Royal Australian Regiment, based out of Townsville, Australia, observe as Marines from the Okinawa, Japan-based 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade prepare to load a landing craft utility from the USS Juneau (LPD 10) and sail to Her Majesty’s Australian Ship Kanimbla for interoperability training, June 12.

Continue reading "Australian soldiers, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade join forces for Talisman Saber 2007" »

Task Force 1/3 conducts COIN operations

HADITHA, Iraq (June 12, 2007) -- Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines of Regimental Combat Team 2 along with Iraqi Security Forces conducted counterinsurgency operations near the Haditha Triad by launching Operation Northwestern Shoulder in the cities of Sagrah, Hosfa and Zawiyah.

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June 8, 2007

USS Tortuga arrives in Australia

Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, June 8, 2007

The USS Tortuga arrived Wednesday in Brisbane, Australia, where sailors, midshipmen and members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit will pause for a four-day port visit, according to a U.S. 7th Fleet news release.

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June 7, 2007

Expeditionary Airfield Techs Build, Maintain Airfields

Marine Wing Support Squadron 371 also helicopter pads in Al Taqqadum

By Cpl. Ryan R. Jackson
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward)

AL ASAD, Iraq, June 7, 2007 — If you could spend a day with an expeditionary airfield Marine in the United States, you would see them catching fighter jets with emergency arresting gear on the flightline. In Iraq, you would see them sweep flightlines for damage and making rapid repairs to ensure a safe landing zone.

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June 6, 2007

3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Essex Amphibious Ready Group experience land ‘down under’

BRISBANE, Australia (June 6, 2007) -- The streets were full of bustle after more than 4,000 Marines and Sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade embarked on three ships of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group arrived at the port here, June 6, for a little rest and relaxation.

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June 5, 2007

Task Force Military Police ensures dignified treatment of prisoners in Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq (June 5, 2007) -- When service members think of military police, they think of those who stand guard at gates or drive around trying to maintain order, but while in Iraq there is a group of Marines that have a different mission.

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HumaneTreatment of Prisoners in Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq -- When servicemembers think of military police, they think of those who stand guard at gates or drive around trying to maintain order, but while in Iraq there is a group of Marines that have a different mission.

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May 31, 2007

Movie Theater helps Marines relax in Haditha

HADITHA, Iraq (May 31, 2007) -- During combat operations, Marines and sailors are often faced with many stressful and strenuous scenarios. At the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Headquarters and Service Company forward operating base located in the city of Haditha, areas are set up for them to sit back and relax after a hard days work.

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May 30, 2007

Marines return home after nine-month deployment

Ninety Marines from Marine Attack Squadron 311 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 returned home to Yuma Wednesday evening. On Tuesday, six Harriers and six pilots returned to MCAS Yuma.

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May 28, 2007

Mountain Viper readies troops for Afghanistan

By John Hoellwarth - Staff writer
Posted : Monday May 28, 2007 9:56:06 EDT

While Marines are getting pre-Iraq training at Mojave Viper in Twentynine Palms, Calif., what about leathernecks heading to the mountains of Afghanistan?

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May 19, 2007

Pa. Marine's last request for bedding for his platoon inspires mother's charity

PHILADELPHIA – Five days before Lance Cpl. Adam C. Conboy was killed in Iraq, he inspired his own memorial fund.

Continue reading "Pa. Marine's last request for bedding for his platoon inspires mother's charity" »

May 18, 2007

New look on life. Kodiak grad, 19, prepares for second tour in Iraq

Marine Lance Cpl. Bryan Gilbert looks at things a little differently now – his family, his friends and even strangers.

Continue reading "New look on life. Kodiak grad, 19, prepares for second tour in Iraq" »

May 17, 2007

Dad honors fallen Marine; Slain pilot's father joins motorcycle pilgrimage

ONTARIO - During conversations with his dad, 1st Lt. Jared Landaker told him he wanted to buy a new Harley-Davidson Heritage motorcycle when he got home from Iraq and ride with his father in an annual cross-country pilgrimage to honor veterans.

Jared never made it back for the run.

Continue reading "Dad honors fallen Marine; Slain pilot's father joins motorcycle pilgrimage" »

May 15, 2007

Hornblower Marine Services renews Westpac Express Contract

Hornblower Marine Services (HMS) reports that the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) has re-chartered the High Speed Vessel Westpac Express. Hornblower has successfully bid to renew its contract to operate the vessel for an additional five years.

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May 11, 2007

Bravo takes to the streets of Haditha

HADITHA, Iraq (May 11, 2007) -- Tasked with defeating insurgents, gaining the trust of the local populace, coordinating reconstruction and other humanitarian projects, Marines assigned to 1st Battalion, 3d Marine Regiment of Regimental Combat Team-2 and members of the Iraqi Police are immersed in counterinsurgency (coin) operations.

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May 10, 2007

Marines Try To Regain City's Trust

During a lull in fighting, officers seek to reassure Haditha residents that they will not abandon them to the insurgents.

HADITHA, IRAQ - The weather was desert hot. But the Pepsi was nicely cold. After acting as gracious host, the mayor here made his point. "The people of Germany and Japan would not have made progress without the Americans," Mayor Abdul Hakim M. Rasheed told the Marine officers who recently came to his heavily guarded home. "The people of Iraq deserve the same."

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April 13, 2007

Fallen Kaneohe Marines Live on Through Brick Pathway Memorial

KANEOHE (KHNL) - Just this week we followed the happy homecomings of hundreds with the 2nd Battalion 3rd Marines. But 23 Marines from that unit alone were killed in action.
Now some local masons give these fallen Marines a lasting memorial.

Continue reading "Fallen Kaneohe Marines Live on Through Brick Pathway Memorial" »

April 12, 2007

Hawaii-Based Marines Return From Iraq

(KHNL) - By the look in her eye, you know it's been way too long.
Danica Hammer tells her baby, "There he is. There's your daddy!"
It doesn't take long for Patrick Hammer to spot his wife and daughter either.
Patrick has been fighting in Iraq for the past seven months and today, the family is celebrating.
While he's been away, his wife had to fill the shoes of both mommy and daddy to their little girl, Malia.

Continue reading "Hawaii-Based Marines Return From Iraq" »

April 9, 2007

Tears, joy mix for isle families. Kaneohe Marines return as more local Guard members prepare to leave

The first 250 of 1,000 Kaneohe Marines arrived yesterday from Iraq, bringing joy and tears to their families.But as they celebrated their return, another group of Hawaii soldiers was preparing to leave.2 soldiers with isle ties die in Iraq

Continue reading "Tears, joy mix for isle families. Kaneohe Marines return as more local Guard members prepare to leave" »

March 24, 2007

More Kaneohe Marines, Sailors Deploy

Three hundred Marines and Sailors are on their way to Iraq for a seven-month deployment. They're members of the 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment. Today friends and family gathered at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe for one last good-bye.

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March 23, 2007

Training challenges Marines to balance mission with search for IEDs

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan (March 23, 2007) -- More than 40 Marines with 2nd Platoon, Motor Transportation Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 4 participated in convoy operations training March 15-18 in the Central Training Area.

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Anti-armor team sets up checkpoints

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii (Mar. 23, 2007) -- TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — Whether on patrol or at the forward operating base in Iraq, Marines are often in harm’s way from indirect fire, small-arms fire, and improvised explosive devices. When conducting vehicle checkpoints, these enemy tactics are things service members should look for.

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March 22, 2007

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 remembers fallen heroes

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (March 22, 2007) -- Four Marines who were killed in a helicopter crash while conducting combat operations in Iraq were remembered during a memorial service at the Mainside Chapel March 19. Hundreds of family members and friends came to celebrate the lives of Capt. Jennifer J. Harris, 1st Lt. Jared M. Ladaker, Sgt. Travis D. Pfister and Sgt. James R. Tijerina.

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Japan MEU deployment extended to one year

By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Mar 22, 2007 12:43:41 EDT

OCEANSIDE, Calif. — The seven-month deployment of roughly 1,200 Marines and sailors in Japan has been extended to 12 months, the Marine Corps has announced.

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March 16, 2007

Deployable Virtual Training Environment gives 'war games' new meaning

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (March 16, 2007) -- Seventy Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd Marine Logistics Group learned the value of war gaming March 8-9 as they participated in a Deployable Virtual Training Environment evolution at Camp Hansen's Combat Arms Simulator facility.

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March 13, 2007

Gains in stability slow but tangible in Haditha

HADITHA, Iraq -- Haditha is like a police state, surrounded by a dirt berm topped with concertina wire, with two tightly controlled entrances and no private cars permitted to drive in the town proper.

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March 11, 2007

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.

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March 10, 2007

Dinwiddie man continues to recover from war wounds

DINWIDDIE — Lance Cpl. Matthew Bradford, 20, is still in the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., after being wounded in combat in Iraq Jan. 18.

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March 4, 2007

Marines in Haditha: Locals not focused on alleged ’05 massacre

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, March 4, 2007

HADITHA, Iraq — When average Americans hear the word “Haditha,” they are likely to think of the much-publicized 2005 incident involving Marines allegedly murdering 24 Iraqi civilians.

Continue reading "Marines in Haditha: Locals not focused on alleged ’05 massacre" »

Unit sees efforts stabilize city, drive back insurgents

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, March 4, 2007

HADITHA, Iraq — A berm, a ban on driving and a bolstering of police.

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February 26, 2007

Catholic family remembers U.S. Marine kiled in Iraq as 'dad' first

HONOLULU, Hawaii (Hawaii Catholic Herald) – Before he was deployed to Iraq this past August, Marine Corps Lt. Col. Joseph Trane McCloud made sure to spend a “Daddy Day” with each of his three children.

Continue reading "Catholic family remembers U.S. Marine kiled in Iraq as 'dad' first" »

February 23, 2007

CAB Marines explore historic site featured in 'The Last Samurai'

KUMAMOTO CITY, KYUSHU, Japan (February 23, 2007) -- Many Marines may be familiar with Kumamoto City after watching the Tom Cruise film "The Last Samurai," but how many can actually say they've been to its castle?

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Inseparable brothers. Twins adapt to military life while trying to remain by each other's side

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa (February 23, 2007) -- They hail from Hazleton, Penn., which has a population of approximately 20,000 people. Since birth, they have been nearly inseparable.

Continue reading "Inseparable brothers. Twins adapt to military life while trying to remain by each other's side" »

February 21, 2007

Lock and Load: 31st MEU Marines, Sailors withstand uneven footing during Enhanced Marksmanship training

ABOARD USS JUNEAU (Feb. 21, 2007) -- As anyone who’s ever seen a movie with hard-boiled cops or trench coat-clad heroes knows, accurate marksmanship is easy not only when standing still, but also while running sideways on a wall or speeding through Central Park in a commandeered taxicab.

Continue reading "Lock and Load: 31st MEU Marines, Sailors withstand uneven footing during Enhanced Marksmanship training" »

February 19, 2007

Isle Marine gets unexpected lift

A sniper's bullet shattered Lance Cpl. Steven Eastburn's arm in Iraq, but a fellow Marine — the nation's highest-ranking uniformed officer — made sure the 20-year-old returned to Hawai'i in style and comfort.

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February 16, 2007

1st Stinger Battery makes first deployment in support of OIF

KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, Japan (Feb. 16, 2007) -- More than 130 Marines and sailors from 1st Stinger Battery, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, left Kadena Air Base Feb. 9 for a seven month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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9th ESB Marines prepare for demolition missions prior to Iraq deployment

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan(Feb. 16, 2007) -- When 9th Engineer Support Battalion Marines deployed to Iraq last year, they expected to carry out typical construction and force protection missions. But soon after arriving, they were met with an additional task of assisting Explosive Ordnance Disposal units with demolitions and route clearing.

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February 10, 2007

Marine pilot from Big Bear City dies in Iraq

BIG BEAR CITY - Every day during his tour of duty in Iraq, 1st Lt. Jared Landaker flew casualty evacuation missions in dangerous combat zones in al-Anbar Province.

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February 9, 2007

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff gives wounded warrior a lift home

2/9/2007 - TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An injured Marine received an unexpected upgrade in his flight home from Iraq here Feb. 8.

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Elite Marine warriors prepare for dive school

CAMP SCHWAB, Japan (February 9, 2007) -- During the Marine Corps Combatant Diver Course at the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, Fla., reconnaissance Marines and corpsmen swim close to 68,000 yards in what is arguably the most intense water training they will receive in their Marine Corps and Navy careers.

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Troops Shared Firm Belief in Iraq Service

Navy Medic, Marine Pleaded to Return; Other Marine Followed Brother's Path

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February 4, 2007

Two IPs, three insurgents killed in raid in western Al Anbar

ZARIAH, Iraq (Feb. 4, 2007) -- In an Iraqi Police led raid on a small cluster of houses outside the village of Zariah, three insurgents were killed and five were detained, Jan. 23, 2007.

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Marines, city leadership discuss Haditha's future

HADITHA, Iraq (Feb. 4, 2007) -- The commanding officer of the Hawaii-based 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment headquartered in Haditha met with top Iraqi Police officials and community leaders in a town hall meeting to discuss the future of this Euphrates River city, Jan. 25, 2007.

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February 2, 2007

Commandant intends to rotate every Marine into combat zones

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Feb. 2, 2007) -- Marine officials are working to identify the approximately 33,000 Marines who have not been tapped for service in Iraq or Afghanistan and get them to deployable units, a III Marine Expeditionary Force official said recently.

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Corpsmen, Marines save lives in western Al Anbar

HADITHA, Iraq (Feb. 2, 2007) -- When Sgt. Nathaniel Tatum heard a loud “Boom” while on a security patrol through the windswept streets of this Euphrates River city, he didn’t think about how to react to the improvised explosive device (IED) blast – he simply “let the training take over.”

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January 30, 2007

Dinwiddie resident severly injured in Iraq , A county resident was severely injured while fighting in Iraq Jan. 18.

Matthew Bradford, 20, was serving in the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines in Haditha, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device exploded.

Continue reading "Dinwiddie resident severly injured in Iraq , A county resident was severely injured while fighting in Iraq Jan. 18." »

January 29, 2007

Essex ARG Arrives in Okinawa Blue-Green Workups

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan – Ships and units of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESXARG) arrived in Okinawa Jan. 29-Feb. 1 to begin the on load of Marines and their equipment as the precursor to scheduled workups and subsequent spring patrol.

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January 26, 2007

HMM-262 Marines deploy to first combat tour since Vietnam

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 26, 2007) -- After more than 40 years since its last combat deployment, an Okinawa-based medium helicopter squadron from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is answering the call to support operations in Iraq.

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January 22, 2007

Home at last: VMFA-115, MALS-31 return from Western Pacific

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. (Jan. 22, 2007) -- Friends and family members of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 braved the drab, gray skies and cold rain Monday to warmly welcome the last of the Silver Eagles returning safely to the Air Station.

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January 20, 2007

One-third of Corps up for Iraq duty

The 66,000 Marines who have not yet deployed to Iraq — more than one-third of the active-duty force — are now on deck for combat, according to a policy issued yesterday by the Corps' top commander.

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One-third of Corps up for Iraq duty

The 66,000 Marines who have not yet deployed to Iraq — more than one-third of the active-duty force — are now on deck for combat, according to a policy issued yesterday by the Corps' top commander.

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January 11, 2007

US Marines build sand walls in latest Iraq tactic

Adapting ideas tracing back from ancient history to modern Israel, US Marines have sealed off flashpoint towns with sand walls in a new counter-insurgency tactic to quell the wilds of western Iraq.

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January 10, 2007

Marine honored on House floor

A Columbia Marine who was shot in the head by a sniper while on duty in Iraq was honored as “the living embodiment of patriotism” today on the floor of the Missouri House.

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January 9, 2007

Columbus woman sends mugs to warm her son, troops

COLUMBUS, Neb. - The mornings are so chilly the soldiers can see their breath.

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January 3, 2007

A miracle on MALS street

AL ASAD, Iraq (Jan. 3, 2007) -- For many of the deployed service members, the holiday seasons pass by without them ever noticing. Every day is a routine groundhogs day, and they are always focused on their job, mission and safety.

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December 11, 2006

‘Hard landing’ for Super Stallion

A Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter made a “hard landing” in Iraq’s Anbar province Monday, injuring 18 of the 21 people on board, according to a Corps release.

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Reno Marine lieutenant killed in Iraq

RENO, Nev. (AP) - Marine 1st Lt. Nathan Krissoff of Reno has been killed in Iraq, according to his family.

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December 8, 2006

Semper Fi spirit, Wounded three times in Iraq, Marine stays strong with family support and video games used to boost rehabilitation efforts.

If a Marine survives being shot in the head, chances are he or she will be looking forward to some quiet time at home. Lance Cpl. John McClellan just wanted to waste some aliens on planet Sera.

Continue reading "Semper Fi spirit, Wounded three times in Iraq, Marine stays strong with family support and video games used to boost rehabilitation efforts." »

December 7, 2006

Legacy of 'Mortalis' Battalion Walks in Iraq

The hallowed verses of the 23rd Psalm, incanted in the archaic yet lyrical English of the King James Bible, resonated in the frigid, pre-dawn darkness.

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Injured Marine gets hero's welcome home

Sitting around the dinner table this Thanksgiving, the Leddy family had plenty of reason to be thankful for the past year.

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December 3, 2006

Memorial on football field was Marine's wish, ANZA: The Aguanga man killed in Iraq loved playing for Hamilton High School.

ANZA - Jeromy D. West's memory will return to the football field where he grew up and found a sense of belonging and purpose.

Continue reading "Memorial on football field was Marine's wish, ANZA: The Aguanga man killed in Iraq loved playing for Hamilton High School." »

December 2, 2006

Horse-drawn hearse to carry Marine's body in Canton

A 110-year-old horse-drawn hearse will carry the body of Canton Marine Pvt. Heath Warner next week.

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November 30, 2006

Kane'ohe Marines going to Afghanistan

About 20 Kane'ohe Bay Marines were scheduled to leave last night for a nine-month deployment to train a battalion of Afghan National Army soldiers.

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November 29, 2006

Military service a longtime dream, Canton McKinley graduate, in Marines for a year, was proud to be `defending freedom'

CANTON - When Heath Warner was 12, he visited Arlington National Cemetery with his family.

Continue reading "Military service a longtime dream, Canton McKinley graduate, in Marines for a year, was proud to be `defending freedom'" »

November 22, 2006

Family Sends Gift Boxes to Iraq

Christmas may be coming a little early for Tallahassee soldiers in Iraq.

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November 9, 2006

Comm Marines tackle combat course, focus on convoy operations, urban warfare

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan (Nov. 9, 2006) -- More than 36 Marines with Communication Company, Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, completed a four-day course focused on convoy procedures, crew-served weapons handling and urban combat techniques Oct. 30 - Nov. 2 at the Central Training Area.

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Service members, spouses, civilians pitch in for deployed CLC-36 Marines

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (Nov. 9, 2006) -- For service members on deployment, simple gestures from loved ones can have a profound effect on morale. Combat Logistics Company 36 is making sure their 11 Marines deployed in Iraq get a little taste of home this holiday season.

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November 2, 2006

3RD MARINES RECEIVE AMERICAN PATRIOT AWARD, Regiment honored as example of "Courage, Loyalty and Patriotism"

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Kaneohe Bay -- The Honolulu Council Navy League bestows its 2006 American Patriot Award to 3rd Marine Regiment on Saturday, November 4, 2006, at the Marine Corps Base-Hawai‘i Officers Club.

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October 27, 2006

Marine recovering after Iraq IED blast

Peggy and Michael Kreiser got the call around 10 a.m. on Oct. 7.
The voice on the other end of the phone belonged to a Marine Corps officer in Iraq. The Kreisers’ 26-year-old son, Lance Cpl. Jared Kreiser, had suffered injuries from a roadside bomb — one of the infamous “IEDs.”

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October 15, 2006

*Marine pulls wounded Iraqi soldier to safety in Iraq's Al Anbar Province

HADITHA, Iraq (Oct. 15, 2006) -Lance Cpl. Ryan C. Sommer insists that he was simply doing his job when he pulled a wounded Iraqi soldier to safety during combat operations in Haditha, Iraq, late last month.

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Marines, Iraqi soldiers recover M-16 rifle from insurgent sniper team

HADITHA, Iraq (Oct. 15, 2006) - U.S. Marines and Iraqi soldiers serving in Haditha, Iraq, recovered an M-16A4 service rifle from insurgents, Oct. 11, 2006.

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October 13, 2006

*3rd TSB redesignated as Combat Logistics Regiment

Sgt. Maj. Matthew V. Wilhelm reveals Combat Logistics Battalion 4's colors for the first time Oct. 4 during the CLB-4 and Combat Logistics Regiment 3 activation ceremony at Camp Foster's parade field. 3rd Transportation Support Bn. was the last TSB in the Marine Corps to be redesignated as a regiment.

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*New food-service company poised for proficiency

CAMP KINSER, CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 13, 2006) -- 3rd Marine Logistics Group's Headquarters and Service Battalion activated a new company Sept. 28 in a ceremony at Robert's Field on Camp Kinser. Food Service Company, H & S Bn., 3rd MLG, is the result of a Marine Corps-wide effort to consolidate food service support.

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*New food-service company poised for proficiency

CAMP KINSER, CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 13, 2006) -- 3rd Marine Logistics Group's Headquarters and Service Battalion activated a new company Sept. 28 in a ceremony at Robert's Field on Camp Kinser. Food Service Company, H & S Bn., 3rd MLG, is the result of a Marine Corps-wide effort to consolidate food service support.

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Powerful 6.6-Magnitude Earthquake, Aftershocks Rattle Hawaii

HONOLULU — A strong earthquake shook Hawaii early Sunday, jolting residents out of bed and causing a landslide that blocked a major highway. Ceilings crashed at a hospital, and aftershocks kept the state on edge.

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October 12, 2006

HMH-363 assumes role of assault support in Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 12, 2006) -- The Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 turned their mission over to the Marines with HMH-363 at Al Asad, Iraq, Oct. 7.

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*A NEW FRIEND IN WASHINGTON

Twenty-year-old John McClellan is recovering from a gunshot wound to the head, his third combat injury.

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October 10, 2006

*Delta squadrons exchange aircraft as mission turnover draws near

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 10, 2006) -- Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 turned over its CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters to its replacement squadron, HMH-363, during the last few remaining days of its deployment in Al Asad.

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October 6, 2006

*'America's Battalion' wrap up six-month Iraq deployment, returns to base in Hawaii

HADITHA, Iraq (Oct. 6, 2006) -- After almost seven months of combat operations in western Al Anbar province, the Marines of “America’s Battalion” returned to families and loved ones Oct. 5 in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.

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*Camp Fuji exercise teaches artillery Marines to thwart terrorist tactics

EAST FUJI MANEUVER AREA, Japan. (Oct. 6, 2006) -- Raining steel on target, firing thousands of machine gun rounds, detaining suspected terrorists and engaging in firefights with enemy ambushers; all in a day's work for the approximately 480 artillery Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.

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October 2, 2006

Hurt Marine recovering in Bethesda

The Columbia lance corporal has made a miraculous recovery so far after being shot in the head

When Connie and Carl McClellan of Columbia arrived at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on Saturday, they didn’t know quite what to expect. Their son, Lance Cpl. John McClellan, 20, had survived a gunshot to the head just four days earlier while serving with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, Echo Company in Haditha, Iraq.

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October 1, 2006

Hearts open for injured Marine

His dad's youth football team has helped raise about $10,000 to ease the burden for the man's family

It has been exactly one month since it happened. Since Mike Delancey and Paula Palmer got the call.

Their son, Marine Lance Cpl. Michael Delancey, 21, had been wounded in an insurgent attack in Iraq. A bullet struck him in the back and tore through his body.

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*Just weeks into Iraq deployment, Hawaii-based Marine battalion honors fallen warrior

HADITHA, Iraq (Oct. 1, 2006) -- Just weeks into a seven-month deployment in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province, Hawaii-based Marines from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment held a memorial service Oct. 1, 2006, at the Haditha Dam for a Marine killed in action recently.

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September 29, 2006

*Hickman grad shot for third time in Iraq

Marine who was shot in head was awarded another Purple Heart

Lance Cpl. John McClellan, 20, has a tattoo of shamrocks below his belly button. The image symbolizes the nickname his fellow Marines gave him, “Lucky,” after he was shot in his right arm twice in one week last October, while serving with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Echo Company in Afghanistan.

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September 18, 2006

*TSB Marines return after nearly seven months in Iraq

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 18. 2006) -- Lance Cpl. Erin O'Hearn held back tears of joy in front of a Camp Foster barracks Sept. 7 as she awaited her husband's arrival from a near seventh-month Iraq deployment.

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September 14, 2006

*Last of Marine battalion ships out

KANE'OHE BAY — The last of about 1,000 Hawai'i Marines destined for western Iraq left yesterday with a mixture of pride in mission, hope for democracy, quiet reservations and belief in one another.

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September 12, 2006

Hawaii Marines deploy to Iraq


MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Oahu -- Approximately 300 Marines with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment will depart Hawaii tomorrow, Sep. 13, for a seven-month deployment to Iraq in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

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More Okinawa Marines due back from Iraq

Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, September 11, 2006

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — About 70 more Marines who deployed with the 3rd Transportation Support Battalion are expected to return here Saturday and Sunday.

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September 11, 2006

*31st MEU leads training surge in water survival


OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 11, 2006) -- To decrease the probability of casualties from helicopter mishaps over water, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit has placed an emphasis on water survival and aircraft emergency and escape procedures.

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September 3, 2006

Engineers clearing the roadway


CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq (Sep. 3, 2006) -- Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are a constant threat to military forces and Iraqi civilians in the Al Anbar Province. Marines, who search for road side bombs, said they are playing a positive a role in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

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September 1, 2006

Hansen-based Marines depart on Iraq deployment

Staff Sgt. Earl Masterson embraces his wife Stephanie Aug. 22 at the 9th Engineer Support Battalion armory on Camp Hansen before departing on a seven-month deployment to Iraq. Photo by: Lance Cpl. Bryan A. Peterson


CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 1, 2006) -- The last of more than 350 Marines and sailors with 9th Engineer Support Battalion and various units within 3rd Marine Logistics Group left here for Iraq Aug. 25.

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Hundreds gather on Hansen to honor fallen EOD Marine

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan
(Sept. 1, 2006) -- More than 200 people gathered in Camp Hansen's West Chapel Aug. 21 to honor a 3rd Marine Logistics Group Marine who died Aug. 16 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio from wounds he received while conducting combat operations in Anbar province, Iraq March 7.

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August 31, 2006

"America's Battalion" dedicates make-shift gym to fallen warrior in Iraq


HADITHA, Iraq (Aug. 31, 2006) -- Marines who knew Staff Sgt. Jason C. Ramseyer will tell you that he loved three things – his family, his Marines and going to the gym.

Ramseyer, 28, died April 21, 2006, in the western Al Anbar Province of Iraq when a roadside bomb exploded near him.

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'Red Lions' hone lifesaving skills

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (Aug. 31, 2006) -- “Exercise. Exercise. Exercise.”

“Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! Red Lion 98 and 99 in midair collision over West Field with 48 total souls! Losing control of A/C!”

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August 27, 2006

Dancers Land in Iraq. Marines Offer No Resistance.

HADITHA DAM, Iraq — One by one, the marines took the stage for one of the most coveted photo opportunities of the war. Tanea sat on a knee of an eager marine while Laurie rested on the other.

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August 25, 2006

Red Lions' families prepare for deployment with family day

Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay (Aug. 25, 2006) -- “The strength of a nation is derived from the integrity of its home,” said the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius.

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August 24, 2006

Marines from Camp Hansen to relieve comrades in Iraq


400 from 9th ESB deploying this week to Anbar province

By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, August 24, 2006

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — The more than 400 Marines deploying to Iraq this week are well-prepared for their mission, said military leaders Tuesday.

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Marines head into harm's way


The daughter of Maj. Joseph McCloud pleaded with her father to stay as he and members of the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment at Marine Corps Base Hawaii left for Iraq yesterday. The battalion is bound for an area that includes Haditha, where tension between Marines and civilians is high.

KANE'OHE BAY — In a case of deja vu, the first of nearly 1,000 more Hawai'i Marines said goodbye to family and boarded buses for flights that will take them to one of the most dangerous places in Iraq.

Yesterday, it was the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. In late February, it was the 3rd Battalion saying goodbye.

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100 more isle marines deploy to Iraq


The Brown family deals with two sons' deployment to Iraq

For the second time in a year, Mary Brown said goodbye to her to son, Timothy, as he left to serve in the Middle East.

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August 23, 2006

Some 100 Kane'ohe-based Marines leaving for Iraq today

Some 100 Marines with the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment are scheduled to leave Hawai'i today for a seven-month deployment to Iraq's Al Anbar province

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Twin sisters embrace deployment in Iraq together

AL ASAD, Iraq (Aug. 23, 2006) -- When two sisters from Jefferson, Ga., walked into a Marine Corps recruiting station and decided to join, they had no idea the entire experience of a four-year enlistment would be spent together.

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August 22, 2006

Kane'ohe squadron leaving for Iraq

About 30 Kane'ohe-based Marines from the Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24 will leave for Iraq tomorrow afternoon for a seven-month deployment.

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VMA-513 Marine uses creativity to cope with deployed life

Cpl. Joshua M. Peterson (left) and Lance Cpl. Kyler Buckner pose in front of a sign created by Peterson Aug. 18, at Al Asad, Iraq. Both Peterson and Buckner, ordnance technicians, Marine Attack Squadron 513, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, helped create the sign and the porch in front of the ordnance Marines' living quarters.

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August 21, 2006

Marine who died from IED burns remembered on Okinawa


Marines at Camp Hansen on Okinawa hold a memorial service Monday for Sgt. John Phillips, who died after a five-month fight to survive burns suffered in Fallujah, Iraq, in March. During his recovery, Phillips married his girlfriend and was on the mend when infections set in and took his life.
Megan McCloskey / S&S;

By Megan McCloskey, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, August 22, 2006

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — Sgt. John Phillips was a man other Marines would go to for guidance because of his honesty and his intelligence, but mostly because he lived life from the heart, those who served with him said at a memorial service Monday.

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VMU-1 named Air Command and Control Unit of the Year


Lance Cpl. Katelyn A. Knauer A RQ-2B Pioneer UAV takes off from an airfield south of Camp Wilson during a training mission. Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 was awarded the 2006 MCAA Edward S. Fris Award.


Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 was recognized by the Marine Corps Aviation Association for their achievements in support of training exercises and combat operations from May 2005 until April 2006.

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Waterfront Ops conduct search and rescue exercises

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (Aug. 21, 2006) -- Around 9:30 a.m. the call came in over the radio at the Waterfront Operations command deck Aug. 9. The caller said two boats had collided in the bay near Coconut Island leaving four passengers stranded in the water. The location of the wreck, severity of the injuries and time of the collision were unknown.

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Flight surgeon looks to future while deployed to Al Asad

Navy Lt. Stacey R. Black stands in front of a CH-53E Super Stallion shortly before flight Aug. 20, at Al Asad, Iraq. Black is a flight surgeon for Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and a native of Huntsville, Texas

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August 20, 2006

'Nightmares' hold field meet, raise morale



Marines from Marine Attack Squadron 513, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, compete in a tug-of-war Aug. 6, at Al Asad, Iraq. The tug-of-war was just one event at the field meet. The Marines also had a barbeque and music, adding to the morale-boosting excitement of the day.

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August 18, 2006

Red Lions prepare for deployment


Marines from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 perform routine maintenance on CH-53Ds, Aug. 9, at Marine Corps Air Facility here. The Red Lions are currently preparing for a upcoming deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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Avionics Marines ensure insurgents have 'Nightmares'


Cpl. Michael Top (left) and Lance Cpl. Erik Meza check and make sure that the new aviation interior utility light works onboard an AV-8B Harrier jet at Al Asad, Iraq, Aug. 15. The light is used by pilots to read maps while in flight. Top and Meza are both AV-8 communications technicians for Marine Attack Squadron 513, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and are responsible for maintaining every electronic system onboard the Harrier.


AL ASAD, Iraq (Aug. 18, 2006) -- Mile and miles of wires and advanced electronics are tucked into every available space of the $30 million AV-8B Harrier jets. One group of Marines is entrusted to make sure every component functions properly for flight.

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August 17, 2006

35 Marines return home from Iraq


MAJ. DARRY GROSSNICKLE holds his three-week-old son Zachary Wednesday morning at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma after returning from a seven-month deployment in Iraq. Grossnickle was the officer in charge of Marine Air Control Squadron 1, which conducted air traffic control operations and support in Iraq. Grossnickle had never met Zachary before Wednesday.
PHOTOS BY JACOB LOPEZ/THE SUN


Thirty-five Yuma Marines returned from a deployment in Iraq to exultant family members they had not seen for seven months or, in one case, at all.

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'Ironmen' keep fuel flowing, support flight operations


Lance Cpl. Castulo Lopez waits for a UH-1N Huey to complete fueling Aug. 9, at Al Asad, Iraq. Lopez, a native of Spartanburg, N.C., is a bulk fuels specialist with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, Marine Wing Support Group 37 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Photo by: Lance Cpl. Brandon L. Roach


AL ASAD, Iraq (Aug. 16, 2006) -- As the scorching sun pounds on the tarmac and the blistering winds rip across the desert floor, the Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274's fuels section know that without them, flying in Iraq would not be possible.

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August 14, 2006

Marine’s quick thinking saved lives, comrades say

BAGHDADI, Iraq (Aug. 14, 2006) -- The quick thinking, coupled with a series of well-aimed shots, by a Marine on post saved lives July 27, 2006, according to Marines and Iraqi soldiers serving here.

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Marine’s quick thinking saved lives, comrades say

BAGHDADI, Iraq (Aug. 14, 2006) -- The quick thinking, coupled with a series of well-aimed shots, by a Marine on post saved lives July 27, 2006, according to Marines and Iraqi soldiers serving here.

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August 9, 2006

5th Anglico Marines tackle IED course, test new humvees

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan (Aug. 11, 2006) -- Cpl. Nathan Miller scans the area around him as he begins a long, routine patrol down the dry-gravel trail in the midst of thick forest. The weight of Miller's equipment is taking its toll on his body, but he stays vigilant and steadfast, looking for signs of an improvised explosive device.

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July 20, 2006

'How the other half lives'

HADITHA, Iraq –- The foot patrol had started much like any other for 3rd squad, 1st Platoon, until they spotted the old Iraqi woman sitting on her front steps.

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July 14, 2006

Lissner to assume command at Camp Fuji

Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, July 14, 2006

The Marines at Camp Fuji, Japan, are to officially welcome their new permanent commander Friday.

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July 4, 2006

Marines dedicated to training Iraqi soldiers amidst insurgent attacks

HADITHA, Iraq(July 4, 2006) -- Lance Cpl. Douglas Tetreault carries a spent round fired from an AK-47 assault rifle, which was surgically removed from his thigh last month after he was shot during a firefight with insurgents in Haditha, Iraq.

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June 28, 2006

Marines’ Goal: Gain Trust, Improve Community, The Marines' "gifts for grades" incentive encourages Iraqi schoolchildren

BARWANA, Iraq, June 28, 2006 — As U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Brett Bartels stood in front of a military vehicle handing out hundreds of stuffed animals and soccer balls on a road in Barwana, his goal was simple - make sure each child went home with a smile on his face.

Continue reading "Marines’ Goal: Gain Trust, Improve Community, The Marines' "gifts for grades" incentive encourages Iraqi schoolchildren" »

June 27, 2006

Marine lieutenant exposed himself to enemy fire to save another in Iraq


HADITHA, Iraq (June 27, 2006) -- Marines here say a lieutenant who was leading Marines and Iraqi soldiers through the volatile streets of Haditha, Iraq, June 14, showed uncommon valor when he ran into a barrage of enemy gunfire to pull a wounded Marine to safety.

1st Lt. Rick Posselt, a 25-year-old from Crystal River, Fla., said he is not the Marine who deserves the recognition.

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Marines in war zone continue to train tomorrow's leaders

AL ASAD, Iraq (June 27, 2006) -- Marines from across station here enrolled in the Corporals Course supervised by Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, Marine Aircraft Group 16 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

The course was started by the Marines from VMFA(AW)-533 and began its third course June 5.

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June 26, 2006

'Angels' descend on Al Asad, save lives

AL ASAD, Iraq (June 26, 2006) -- The thumping of helicopter blades beats over the noise made by service members scrambling to help a wounded person, and as the sound becomes clearer, they look up and see the dark silhouettes of two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters drifting in to land.

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June 25, 2006

Hemet, Calif., Marine killed in Iraq remembered by fellow Marines, sailors

A Marine assigned to the Hawaii-based India Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment pays his final respects to Cpl. Michael Estrella, a 20-year-old from Hemet, Calif., June 25, 2006, at a memorial service at the Marines’ base in Haditha, Iraq. Estrella was killed by enemy gunfire recently while on patrol with his platoon while searching for a suspected insurgent in western Al Anbar Province, Iraq. During the ceremony, Marines described Estrella as a “dedicated and professional Marine” who excelled at his job of being a radio operator. He often went without sleep to make sure his battalion had communication, the Marines said. Estrella was a 2003 graduate of Hemet High school and joined the Marine Corps in September 2003. He reported to 3rd Battalion in May 2004 and deployed with the unit to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom last year. His awards include the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment ribbon. The Hawaii-based battalion, also known as “America’s Battalion,” arrived in March and will be replaced by another Hawaii-based Marine unit this fall.

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June 21, 2006

Marines continue to combat insurgency after death of Al Qaeda leader

BARWANA, Iraq - Marines assigned to the Hawaii-based L Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, search a house for insurgents, weapons caches and explosives during a patrol June 16. Despite the stunning blow to Iraq’s insurgency two weeks ago with the death of Al Qaeda in Iraq leader Abu Musab al Zarqawi, Marines and Iraqi soldiers in this Al Anbar Province city are continuing the fight against terrorism by combating insurgent activity nearly daily. But while the Marines and Iraqi soldiers patrol the worn streets lined with pock marks from improvised explosive devices – homemade bombs that have bedeviled Coalition Forces – the Marines are reminded that insurgents are still working behind the scenes and planning attacks in this city of 30,000 located on the Euphrates River northwest of Baghdad. Still, the Marines here say that even though it has been a long and grueling three months, the insurgency is beginning to crumble as local residents are warming up to the Marines’ presence and the Iraqi Army is becoming a more solid and independent organization.


(3/3 Lima)

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June 13, 2006

Insurgent attacks no match for Marines’ resolve

HAQLANIYAH, Iraq (June 13, 2006) -- In the afternoon of June 3, outside the Marines forwarding operating base located in the violent city of Haqlaniyah, three insurgents armed with automatic rifles and wearing face masks opened fire on Marines working in front of the barrier-laden base.

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June 6, 2006

Marines Fight Grenade Attacks, Drive-Bys, IEDs

Haqlaniyah, Iraq - Arguably some of the fiercest violence by insurgents against Coalition Forces in the Al Anbar Province occurs in Haqlaniyah, Iraq, a city nestled along the Euphrates River northwest of Baghdad.

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Marines fight grenade attacks, drive-by’s, IEDs; capture insurgents

HAQLANIYAH, Iraq (June 6, 2006) -- Arguably some of the fiercest violence by insurgents against coalition forces in the Al Anbar province occurs in Haqlaniyah, Iraq, a city nestled along the Euphrates River northwest of Baghdad.

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May 21, 2006

From the jungles of Japan to the streets of Fallujah, Marine unit keeps the supplies coming

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (May 21, 2006) -- Leaving behind the small island of Okinawa, Japan, a small group of Marines is now navigating the dangerous roads of western Iraq to keep a steady flow of supplies to troops on the frontlines.

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May 12, 2006

Division Marines depart for Cobra Gold aboard HSV

KIN RED PORT, OKINAWA, Japan (May 12, 2006) -- More than 150 Marines and sailors with K Battery, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Platoon 3 departed for Thailand aboard the high-speed vessel Westpac Express May 8 to participate in Exercise Cobra Gold 2006.

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May 7, 2006

Ten soldiers killed in Friday's helicopter crash

FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Ten Fort Drum soldiers were killed in Friday's helicopter crash in Afghanistan, a base spokesman confirmed Sunday.

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Ten soldiers killed in Friday's helicopter crash

FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Ten Fort Drum soldiers were killed in Friday's helicopter crash in Afghanistan, a base spokesman confirmed Sunday.

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May 6, 2006

Military Helicopter Crashes in Afghanistan, Killing 10 GIs

KABUL, Afghanistan — A U.S.-led coalition military transport helicopter crashed while conducting combat operations in the remote mountains of eastern Afghanistan, killing all 10 American soldiers on board, a U.S. military spokeswoman said Saturday.

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May 5, 2006

Progress steady, Marines meet with Iraqi leaders, discuss security in Haditha Triad region

HADITHA, Iraq (May 5, 2006) -- Since their arrival in the Al Anbar Province nearly two months ago, Marines here say Iraqi Security Forces are progressing toward relieving Coalition Forces and stabilizing the region.

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April 27, 2006

Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion, Part V , The Commander Talks…and Civilization at the Base

Cameraman Pierre and I spent our first night in a week in the luxury of a cabin with a hard roof over our heads. Forward Operating Base Asadabad is only a few miles from where we were roughing it with the Marines in northeastern Afghanistan. It’s separated by a few ranges of mountains and it’s protected by flanks of artillery.

Continue reading "Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion, Part V , The Commander Talks…and Civilization at the Base" »

April 26, 2006

Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion, Part IV

The Rains Come With a Fiery Send-Off

After a restful night in our spot overlooking the Marine D.O. Platoon’s next objective, we headed down to the town of Kandalay. This was the place that was supposed to be full of terrorists using this region as a safe haven.

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April 25, 2006

Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion, Part III

A Ghost Town and a Haunted Evening

Cameraman Pierre and I woke up a bit on the grumpy side today. Perhaps it was because we had both been sleeping on each other’s side — on the side of a sheer-faced mountain — along with the Marines of D.O. Platoon, with whom we were embedded.

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SDPD posthumously honors hero Marine

First came the bullets to his torso and his face. The automatic gunfire struck Sgt. Rafael Peralta the second he opened that door in a Fallujah house on Nov. 15, 2004.

Then, as Peralta lay dying, came the grenade, lobbed into the room with him and five other Marines.

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April 24, 2006

Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion, Part II

I woke up after a relaxing sleep of about two hours with my Marine hosts. It was a cold and damp two hours. I under-packed for this jaunt through the mountains with the military. My pack was previously too full with 16 liters of water for each day — which you're supposed to carry — along with the TV gear, etc. I had decided I'd go a bit dry in our hunt for the terrorists — and at least lose a few pounds off my bag.

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April 22, 2006

Reporter's Notebook: Operation Mountain Lion

I've been on a lot of military embedments since 9/11. Some of them have been longer. Some of them have been more dangerous. But none of them has been as physically grueling as the one I was on recently with the D.O. Platoon of the 1st Battalion, 3rd Regiment Marines.

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April 12, 2006

In war-torn Al Anbar, Marines, Iraqi soldiers keep city streets safe

HADITHA, Iraq(April 12, 2006) -- The windswept streets of Haditha are lined with stores and houses pocked with bullet holes that tell a story of a community once plagued by fear from insurgents and terrorists

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Coalition Launches 'Operation Mountain Lion' in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON, April 12, 2006 – Coalition forces, in cooperation with the Afghan National Army, began "Operation Mountain Lion" yesterday to establish security, deter the re-emergence of terrorism, and enhance the sovereignty of Afghanistan, military officials reported today.

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April 10, 2006

Corps’ top officer says Marines, sailors are winning the war on terror

HADITHA, Iraq (April 10, 2006) -- The Marine Corps’ top officer recently stated he was confident Coalition Forces were going to win the Global War on Terrorism.

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March 29, 2006

Hawaii-based Marines provide security, helping hand to Iraqi town

BARWANAH, Iraq (March 29, 2006) -- When 22 year old Cpl. Jeff Globis taped a picture in his Kevlar helmet of his wife, he did so knowing it would be the only way he could see her for seven months.

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March 28, 2006

Marines win villagers’ trust

RECHAH LAM, Afghanistan (March 28, 2006) -- The primary mission of the 1st Battalion of the 3rd Marine Regiment is to track down insurgents and render their operations ineffective.

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March 20, 2006

Canton, Mich., Marine brothers cross paths in Iraq

CAMP AL ASAD, Iraq (March 20, 2006) -- After enlisting in the Marine Corps more than a year apart, two brothers from Canton, Mich., have crossed paths in Iraq, while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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March 16, 2006

VMA-513 Nightmares ready to strike fear in the enemy

AL ASAD, Iraq (Mar. 16, 2006) -- An AV-8B Harrier screams loudly as it slowly lowers itself to the runway. Four other Harriers circle above, waiting for their turn to land - the Flying Nightmares have arrived.

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March 11, 2006

Memphis Marine stands above the rest at 31st MEU

ABOARD USS ESSEX(Mar. 10, 2006) -- For some, the Marine Corps is a lifelong dream. For 23-year-old Lance Cpl. Herlando M. Gwynn, an administrative clerk with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, it was a way to better himself and provide a better future for his daughter, Destaynee.

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March 9, 2006

HMM-268 takes over CASEVAC and aviation support missions from HMM-161

AL TAQADDUM, Iraq (Mar. 9, 2006) -- In what has become a familiar routine, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, passed responsibility for casualty evacuation and general aviation support missions in Iraq Feb. 25 to HMM-268, MAG-16, 3rd MAW, ending another successful deployment to the newly democratic nation.

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March 5, 2006

Logistics Marines keep Forerunners on the move and workspaces in repair

AL ASAD, Iraq (Mar 5, 2006) -- Issues Marines face on a daily basis, which can lessen their quality of life and hinder their mission, include downed power generators, lights not turning on, mud bogs created by standing water and gear or personnel needing transportation.

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March 4, 2006

Marines & Sailors Return from Deployment

SAN DIEGO, CA - (3-4-06) In two separate homecomings Saturday, 350 marines and sailors returned home from deployment.

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February 28, 2006

MWSS-374 bids Combat Center adieu

More than 400 Marines and Sailors of Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 departed from the Combat Center Tuesday and Wednesday for the unit's second deployment to Iraq. The squadron will call the Al Anbar province home for the next seven months as a part Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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Unmanned aircraft squadron finishes third deployment with astonishing flight hours

AL TAQADDUM, Iraq(Feb. 28, 2006) -- Soaring on the seventh month of deployment, the Marines of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to return home to Twentynine Palms, Calif., after going above and beyond the normal call of duty throughout their rotation.

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February 26, 2006

New wave of Marines start leaving for Iraq

KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (AP) _ The first of 900 Hawaii-based Marines have left the islands for deployment in the war in Iraq.

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February 25, 2006

New Marine deployment to Iraq begins

KANE'OHE BAY — A new wave of Iraq deployments has begun for Hawai'i-based troops.

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February 24, 2006

31st MEU MSSG brings in supplies

SOUTHERN LEYTE, Philippines (Feb. 24, 2006) -- Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's MEU Service Support Group 31 have been offloading supplies from both helicopters and trucks in the municipality of St. Bernard since Feb. 19.

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31st MEU engineers build road to assist rescue

SOUTHERN LEYTE, Philippines (Feb. 24, 2006) -- Numerous nations, non-governmental and private voluntary organizations have responded to the request for aid from the Philippine government following a landslide, which destroyed the village of Guinsaugon here, Feb. 17.

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31st MEU, Philippine Marines work shoulder-to-shoulder

SOUTHERN LEYTE, Philippines (Feb. 24, 2006) -- Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's MEU Service Support Group 31 have been working directly with Philippine Marines since Feb. 22 in support of humanitarian operations being conducted here.

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February 23, 2006

31st MEU Marines aid, evacuate rescuers

SOUTHERN LEYTE, Philippines (Feb. 23, 2006) -- Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Joint Task Force Balikatan, used two CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters to rescue nine Taiwanese rescuers who were trapped in the landslide disaster area Feb. 23.

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February 5, 2006

Aviation authority transferred to MAG-16 in Western Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq (Feb. 5, 2006) -- Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, returned to the dust-blown streets and runways of Al Asad, Iraq, Feb. 5, replacing MAG-26 as the primary facilitator of aviation support in their area of responsibility.

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February 1, 2006

Families honor fallen Kaneohe Marines, Nearly 900 fellow Marines and sailors also pay respects

They came from all walks of life -- from a Navajo reservation to the suburbs of Milwaukee.

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January 31, 2006

Logistics units endure cold, snow during Camp Fuji convoy training

CAMP FUJI, Japan (Jan. 31, 2006) -- More than 150 service members with 3rd Marine Logistics Group endured the cold on Camp Fuji Jan.11-29, for Exercise Materiel Warrior, a three-week convoy operations exercise.

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January 27, 2006

Miramar air group heads for Iraq

MIRAMAR ---- Gunnery Sgt. Gail Saylor returned home from a Middle East deployment 10 days ago.

On Thursday, she and 10-year-old daughter were saying goodbye to her husband, Gunnery Sgt. Stuart Saylor, who left Miramar Marine Corps Air Station for Iraq, his seventh deployment since 9/11.

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January 26, 2006

300 Marines Deploy For Operation Iraqi Freedom


Hundreds of local Marines deployed from MCAS Miramar Thursday.

Three hundred members of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing left San Diego to head to the Middle East in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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January 24, 2006

Helo team provides essential supplies to earthquake victims


MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan (Jan. 24, 2006) -- The colossal earthquake that violently shook Pakistan Oct. 8, 2005, destroyed more than buildings and homes.

The earthquake wiped out critical supply routes to Pakistanis. The open skies offered the only unobstructed route. (3rd Transportation Support Bn 3rd MLG)

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31st MEU has 'Super' power

ABOARD USS ESSEX (LHD-2) (Jan. 24, 2006) -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit has increased its flight, airlift and aircraft defense capabilities this deployment cycle with the addition of CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters as part of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (Reinforced), the MEU's aviation combat element.

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January 23, 2006

31st MEU's MSPF and III MEF's SOTG arrive in Guam

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (Jan. 23, 2006) -- “The Marines have landed.” The initial elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Maritime Special Purpose Force and members of the III Marine Expeditionary Force’s Special Operations Training Group from Okinawa, Japan, touched down here via a KC-130 Hercules aircraft Jan. 23, to participate in the MEU’s urbanized training called Training in an Urban Environment Exercise 06-1 or “TRUEX”.

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Marine unit departs for Iraq, many on third tour

Marines say their final farewells at Miramar before departing for Iraq today.
MIRAMAR MARINE CORPS AIR STATION – For many of the 200 or so Marines and sailors scheduled to deploy early Monday to Iraq, it was business as usual. (3rd MAW)

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January 22, 2006

Local father proud of son's dedication to military, service to country

Frank Sadler always thought his son would make good football coach. He never realized Shaun Sadler would make such a great Marine. (3rd MAW)

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January 19, 2006

Marines talk tactics to tackle trafficking in persons

U.S. MARINE CORPS FORCES, PACIFIC, CAMP H. M. SMITH, Hawaii (Jan. 19, 2006) -- A team from the Department of Defense Inspector General brought together Marines from all over Oahu to conduct a trafficking in persons sensing session at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii Chapel, Jan. 11.

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Marines, sailors celebrate Christmas with local school children

HAMAHIGA ISLAND, OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 19, 2006) -- Seventeen Marines and sailors with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, played miniature golf, shared a Christmas dinner and sang Christmas carols with Hama Junior High School pupils Dec. 9 on Hamahiga Island.

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January 11, 2006

31st MEU closes out 2005

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan(Jan 10, 2006) -- As the nation’s only permanently deployed Marine Expeditionary Unit, the 31st MEU found itself occupied with a myriad of different scenarios throughout 2005. (BLT 1/3,
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (Reinforced)

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January 10, 2006

More Marines Home from Afghanistan

(KHNL) It was a happy homecoming for many local families.

Monady morning, about 200 marines and sailors with the 2nd battalion, third Marine regiment, arrived in Hawaii, after serving an eight-month deployment.

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January 5, 2006

Isle Marines off to Afghanistan


About 1,000 members of the 1st Battalion will be deployed there for seven months

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January 4, 2006

400 Marines, sailors to be deployed

Nearly 400 Hawaii-based Marines and sailors are scheduled to leave the islands tomorrow morning for their second tour, a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan. 1/3 & 2/3

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December 9, 2005

College football player hangs up helmet for stethoscope

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Dec. 9, 2005) -- It is often said that nothing is given to a Marine — it is figuratively beat into the psyche of every young man and woman who steps on the yellow footprints at the recruit depots in San Diego or Parris Island, S.C., that they are going to have to earn the title “Marine.”

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Marines, sailors search 'difficult' valleys

JALALABAD, Afghanistan - 1st Lt. Ryan B. Cohen, platoon commander, and a radio operator call in artillery support after being attacked by anti- coalition militia forces during Operation Sorkh Khar.
(2/3)

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Analyzing intelligence in Iraq

While Thomas and Geraldine Witham are proud of both of their children, it’s their daughter Kathleen that they are most worried about.

Kathleen, better known as Katie, is a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps and currently stationed in Iraq.

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December 2, 2005

Bronze Star awardee gears up for eighth deployment

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Dec. 2, 2005) -- Like hail during a thunderstorm, the bullets landed all around the Marine as he simultaneously fired two M-16 service rifles, one in each arm. His own weapon and the weapon of his platoon sergeant, who was busy carrying another wounded Marine on his back to safety, continuously erupted as he methodically emptied magazine after magazine into the insurgent position. (1/3)

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December 1, 2005

He wants to be home for Christmas - Local Marine recuperating in Maryland after injuries suffered in Iraq bombing

A North Bend man is recovering from serious injuries suffered during his second tour of duty in Iraq with his Marine unit. 1/3 Marine

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November 30, 2005

Four Okinawa Marines prepare meals for hundreds in Pakistan

SHINKIARI, Pakistan(Nov. 30, 2005) -- It’s 4:30 a.m. and while the rest of the camp is asleep, the cooks and food service specialists awaken in their pitch-dark tents, grab flashlights and step out into the piercing 40-degree weather.

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November 25, 2005

Marine finds family in fellow Lava Dogs, leadership skills

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Nov. 25, 2005) -- Like a contestant on Donald Trump’s “The Apprentice,” 17-year-old Florencio Bermudez sat across the kitchen table from his parents in the El Paso, Texas, home he grew up in and tried to make a power play deal that would alter his life forever. (1/3)

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Scout chose ‘road less traveled’ to serve

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii(Nov. 25, 2005) -- From a young Eagle Scout to hardened Marine, he chose to take “the road less traveled” to become one of the “few and the proud.” (3/3 Marine)

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November 22, 2005

Gunfighters’ maintenance controller keeps operations at full sprint

AL QAIM, Iraq (Nov. 22, 2005) -- When faced with challenges, Marines are renowned for their ability to adapt and overcome.

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November 9, 2005

Operation Pil Aids Security in Kunar Province

U.S. Marines and sailors embark on a mission to improve security in an Afghan
province, an endeavor requiring a hike to an elevation over 5,000 feet to reach the mountaintop. (2/3)

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November 8, 2005

Re-designation ceremony makes 3rd MLG changeover official

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan (Nov. 7, 2005) -- The 3rd Force Service Support Group was formally re-designated as 3rd Marine Logistics Group during a ceremony in front of the Group headquarters Oct. 31. (3rd FSSG now 3rd MLG)

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November 7, 2005

Combat Engineers conduct bilateral rafting operations with Korean Army

HAENG JU BRIDGE TRAINING SITE, Republic of Korea (Nov. 7, 2005) -- Service members from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3d Marine Logistics Group combined efforts to assemble a portable, pontoon bridge over the Han River at the Haeng Ju Bridge Training Site Oct. 27 through Nov. 2.

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November 4, 2005

‘Expert’ motivates qualifiers on range

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Nov. 4, 2005) -- “I always get Marines on the range that are convinced they, ‘can’t shoot,’” said Pfc. Deidra Postemski, range coach, Combat Service Support Group 3. “That is the first thing they get wrong. All you need is confidence and consistency to be an expert.”

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RP specialist ready to head out on second combat tour

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Nov. 4, 2005) -- It might be said that Seaman Travis Lassiter, a religious program specialist serving with 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, based out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, was born for the position he currently holds.

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Dragon Eye Protects Troops, Improves Recon

The easily-transportable unmanned aerial vehicle gives troops up-to-date
reconnaissance over a wide area of terrain. (2/3)

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October 30, 2005

31st MEU concludes Philippine school improvement

MARAGONDON, CAVITE, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 30, 2005) -- Marine engineers of the Marine Expeditionary Unit Service Support Group-31 were joined by students and teachers in a turnover ceremony and reopening the Maragondon Elementary School, Oct. 30.

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October 29, 2005

Marines learn how to win over Afghan town with aid, respect, sensitivity

By Steve Mraz
Stars and Stripes
Published: October 29, 2005

CAMP BLESSING, Afghanistan — Just steps outside the gate of this eastern Afghanistan fire base, camp commander 1st Lt. Matt Bartels is met with a warm smile, a hug and a handshake, followed by the Afghan villager respectfully placing his hand over his own heart.

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Marines learn how to win over Afghan town with aid, respect, sensitivity

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Saturday, October 29, 2005

CAMP BLESSING, Afghanistan — Just steps outside the gate of this eastern Afghanistan fire base, camp commander 1st Lt. Matt Bartels is met with a warm smile, a hug and a handshake, followed by the Afghan villager respectfully placing his hand over his own heart.

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Marine gave life for cause

1 year after death, loved ones recall patriotism (1/3 fallen hero- Oct 30, 2004)

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October 28, 2005

Clerk sees deployment as the ‘real’ Corps

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Oct. 28, 2005) -- When you think of a Marine who isn’t an infantryman being deployed to a combat zone, your first thought would be they’ll only be there for about six to eight months and then they’ll never have to go again.

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Deploying again excites Marine

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Oct. 28, 2005) -- One of the most important jobs Marines do, especially in a combat situation, is stand guard to help protect their fellow Marines. (3/3 / pic at ext link)

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October 27, 2005

1/3 Lava Dogs wrap up training at 29 Palms

MARINE AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (Oct. 27, 2005) -- The main body of 900-plus Lava Dogs from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, returned to their home duty station of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, Wednesday and Thursday following a six-week, pre-deployment training evolution at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, Calif., and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif. (1/3)

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Marines put on game face to ease rough ride

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, October 27, 2005

As a Marine Corps convoy headed out of Forward Operating Base Asadabad on its way to Camp Blessing in eastern Afghanistan late Monday night, Marines joked to each other about the spine-rattling ride that awaited them. (2/3 / pics at ext link)

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Family of fallen carry on legacy


A Fair Oaks couple is working hard to keep the legacy of their fallen son, Lance Cpl. Nicholas C. Kirven, alive. (3/3)

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October 26, 2005

Shot twice in a week, Marine dubbed ‘Lucky’

2-3 Marine wounded in two separate Afghanistan firefights

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Wednesday, October 26, 2005

ASADABAD, Afghanistan — To the U.S. Marine Corps, he’s known as Lance Cpl. John McClellan of Company E’s combined anti-armor team, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.

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Shot twice in a week, Marine dubbed ‘Lucky’

2/3 Marine wounded in two separate Afghanistan firefights

By Steve Mraz
Stars and Stripes
Published: October 26, 2005

ASADABAD, Afghanistan — To the U.S. Marine Corps, he’s known as Lance Cpl. John McClellan of Company E’s combined anti-armor team, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division.

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October 25, 2005

3rd Recon returns from Iraq

CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 25, 2005) -- Family and friends gathered to welcome more than 100 service members home from Iraq in the early morning Oct. 18.

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October 24, 2005

Tactical Combat Casualty Care course prepares Marines for the worst

U.S. MARINE CORPS FORCES, PACIFIC, CAMP H. M. SMITH, Hawaii (Oct. 24, 2005) -- “I’m hit, it’s my leg … some one help me … I want to go home!” (3/3)

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Ammo technician learned much from life in the rear

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif.(Oct. 24, 2005) -- There are many stories of Marines from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, based out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, who distinguished themselves on the battlefield in Iraq with valor and bravery. (pics at ext. link)

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2/3 proves no mountain too tall

JALALABAD, Afghanistan (Oct. 24, 2005) -- Marines and sailors of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, conducted Operation Pil in the Watapor Valley Oct. 16-23 in order to improve security and assist in stabilizing the government in the troubled region. (Pics at ext link)

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31st MEU assaults air field, kicks off Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 24, 2005) -- Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Forward-deployed Amphibious Ready Group simulated an airfield seizure marking the start of the Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 2006 here Oct. 21. (31st MEU & 2/4 E BLT / pics on ext. link)

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October 23, 2005

31st MEU and Philippine Marines conduct MEDCAP

GAWAD KALINGA VILLAGE, BARANGAY SANTA JULIANA, CAPAS, TARLAC, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 23, 2005) -- More than 800 Philippine citizens gathered for the US-Philippine military sponsored medical civic action project here Oct. 23. (31st MEU

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Operation Pil targets Taliban in Kunar province

U.S., Afghan forces aim to disrupt enemy activities

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Monday, October 24, 2005

WATAPOOR, Afghanistan — Bullets were tinging off the Humvees and rocket-propelled grenades were hitting so close to the Marines that they could see orange flecks as the grenades exploded. (2/3 / photos at ext. link)

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October 21, 2005

Marine continues family tradition

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii(Oct. 21, 2005) -- In two years, you would expect that most people could accomplish some pretty outstanding things. Lance Cpl. Geoff A. Kercher, team leader, Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, has done just that and used his ambition to take his life to the next level and push himself do more than the “average Joe.” (3/3)

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Marine minesweepers face 'constant threat'

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Saturday, October 22, 2005

ASADABAD, Afghanistan — Imagine leading a patrol into enemy territory, unarmed, exposed, with the chance you could trigger an explosion with every footstep. (2/3 and attachments)

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‘America’s Battalion’ gives thanks, plaque to NMCRS

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (10/21/2005) -- For years, the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society has been providing services for Military members and families during times of need. (3/3)

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October 18, 2005

Marine, Philippine forces join in live fire drills

CLARK AIR BASE, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 18, 2005) -- Deep Reconnaissance Platoon Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit trained with Philippine Marines and airmen for live-fire pistol and rifle close quarter battle qualification and training here Oct. 28.

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October 17, 2005

Boyhood dream comes true for career retention specialist

FORT HUNTER LIGGETT, JOLON, Calif. (Oct. 17, 2005) -- Growing up in the shadow of a John Deere tractor factory and literally amongst the seemingly endless cornfields that surrounded his small boyhood Iowa hometown, he knew even at a young age that he would never end up working on an assembly line or down on the farm.

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October 16, 2005

Sniper aims for recruiting duty

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Oct. 14, 2005) -- Training brand new Marine scout snipers is a long, difficult process some instructors might find difficult. But Sgt. Andrew K. Jones does the job as if it were a hobby.

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October 15, 2005

Corpsman finds respect working with Marines

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii(Oct. 14, 2005) -- “The Iraqi conflict was probably the best experience,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Nester Lazo. “It gave me a new meaning of life. It brought people together to become good friends, the kind of friendship only being in a combat situation can bring.”

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Afghan roads claim vehicles

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Saturday, October 15, 2005

Think back to the worst dirt road you’ve ever driven on in America. Add about 1,000 misplaced rocks, and cover it all in a quarter-inch of powder-fine dust. The result is your typical Afghan road.

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October 14, 2005

‘Motor T’ Marine feels the heat early in Corps career


MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (Oct. 14, 2005) -- “Our trucks are like fighter jets, our drivers like pilots. We may not be up high in the sky, but we feel like pilots on the ground.”
— Lance Cpl. Carlos Johnson, motor transportation operator (1/3)

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1/3 Lava Dogs build on training at Twentynine Palms


MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (Oct. 14, 2005) -- Hitting the halfway point, whether in a task, a career, or even on a long drive, sometimes leads folks to utter the phrase, “It’s all down hill from here.”

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Marines and Sailors join Philippine military for bilateral exercises

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 14, 2005) -- Military commanders with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Amphibious Squadron-11 and the Armed Forces Philippines held an opening ceremony at the Marine Barracks here Oct. 14 marking the beginning of two-week-long exercises in the Philippines.

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October 13, 2005

Corpsmen conquer mountain medicine course

MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, BRIDGEPORT, Calif. (Oct. 13, 2005) -- With U. S. troops still deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Navy corpsmen and Army medics are learning valuable tools to better prepare them for mountainous terrain.

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3/12 Marines set sail for Camp Fuji


KIN RED PORT, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 14, 2005) -- More than 400 Marines and sailors with 12th Marine Regiment departed for Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 11 on the high-speed vessel Westpac Express to conduct an exercise called Fuji Combined Arms Operation.(1/12 & 3/12)

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Marines looking for a few good mountain men

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, October 13, 2005

ASADABAD, Afghanistan — They’ve stormed beaches, planted the American flag at Iwo Jima and are best known for amphibious landings. (2/3)

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3/3 Marines drop from above

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Oct. 13, 2005) -- Imagine being part of the reinforcement and having your destination surrounded by the enemy. And, to make matters worse, there is no way to reach the destination by convoy, and to hike there means suicide. There is only one way to reach your destination — fast rope from a helicopter.

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New clothes, toys for Afghanistan ‘tots’

NANGALAM, Afghanistan (Oct. 4, 2005) -- Marines and sailors of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment handed out over 600 school outfits Oct. 3 to local village children. The battalion recently began a campaign to bring clothing, toys and school supplies to the children in the neighboring village of Nangalam. (2/3)

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October 12, 2005

Marines from Lima, Kilo and India companies of 3/3 train in desert atmosphere

MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii (Oct. 12, 2005) -- Marines with 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, participated in pre-deployment training in order to familiarize themselves with situations and scenarios they will more than likely experience in theater.

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Marines, Sailors Guard Edge of Empire

NANGALAM, Afghanistan - Camp Blessing is arguably one of the most successful bases in Afghanistan. This is due to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment who patrol the base, one of the most remote and smallest Marine Corps post in Afghanistan. They have confiscated thousands of pounds of enemy munitions and captured numerous suspected anti-coalition militia personnel. (2/3)

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October 11, 2005

Marines, sailors guard edge of empire


NANGALAM, Afghanistan (Oct. 2, 2005) -- Camp Blessing is arguably one of the most successful bases in Afghanistan. This is due to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment who patrol the base, one of the most remote and smallest Marine Corps post in Afghanistan. They have confiscated thousands of pounds of enemy munitions and captured numerous suspected anti-coalition militia personnel. (2/3)

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October 9, 2005

Marines trudge up Afghan mountain to find insurgents

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, October 9, 2005

QATAR KALA, Afghanistan — Four Afghan men were spotted ascending a mountain trail Thursday in eastern Afghanistan’s Watapoor Valley. It looked as if they had tried to discreetly sling AK-47s around their backs. (2/3))

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October 8, 2005

War veterans help out at school before leaving Marine Corps

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii(Oct. 7, 2005) -- When Marines return from combat, wounded, they are usually given an option of how they want to finish out their time in the Corps. Some choose to be a lifeguard at the base pool, others spend their time as range coaches, but for five Marines from Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, the choice was one that has changed their outlook on life, as well as the people they work with.

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October 7, 2005

Junior Marine is experienced beyond what rank implies

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif.(Oct. 7, 2005) -- The shrapnel burning in his legs most likely came from a hand grenade, he figured, considering the fighting was so up close and personal that day in Fallujah. He couldn’t really be sure. It might have been from an rocket-propelled grenade, mortar, or who knows what other kind of homemade bomb some insurgent had put together in his basement. The media and military called these tools of death improvised explosive devices, but it didn’t really matter to him what label they were given or even what exactly it was imbedded inside of him, piercing his flesh. (1/3 )

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Career planner puts 100 percent into all

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (Oct. 7, 2005) -- His Marines know him as their career planner; his boxers know him as their coach; and his family knows him as a great husband and father. What those jobs and titles have in common, when it comes to one man, is the passion and devotion he has for each one. (3/3)

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October 5, 2005

Conroe Marine dies in combat in Iraq

CONROE - A 22-year-old Marine, who joined the military shortly after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, died when he drove a military vehicle over a roadside bomb during combat, his family said Tuesday.

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Marine’s life ends in remote outpost

Lance Cpl. Steven Valdez, 20, of McRae was killed Monday at Camp Blessing in Afghanistan’s Pesch Valley, which is home to personnel from the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force, including Army Rangers, Marines and the Afghan Security Forces.
Valdez, a machine-gun operator, was running to his post when shrapnel from a mortar round struck him in the neck. (2/3)

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October 3, 2005

Marines take the fight up Afghan mountain

Troops pushed into high terrain to battle it out with the enemy

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Monday, October 3, 2005

ALISHANG VALLEY, Afghanistan — Incoming.

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September 30, 2005

‘Mountain Man’ knows ins and outs of training center

MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, BRIDGEPORT, Calif. (Sept. 30, 2005) -- Collectively, there are thousands of years of active duty experience among the 900-plus Marines from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, assigned to Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, who are currently conducting training exercises at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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Dragon Eye flies high to maximize surveillance

JALABAD, Afghanistan (Sept. 30, 2005) -- Marines and Sailors from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, use the Marine Corps Dragon Eye, the smallest functioning unmanned aerial vehicle, in an effort to minimize friendly casualties and maximize surveillance during missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

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September 29, 2005

Japanese officer candidates get to the ‘Corps’ of artillery

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 29, 2005) -- More than 130 Japanese officer candidates visited an artillery battery to learn about Marine artillery Sept. 27.

The Marines with L Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, hosted cadets with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force as part of the Japanese Observer Program. The candidates were taught the functional areas of an artillery battery including a M-198 155mm Medium Towed Howitzer demonstration, and Marine Corps crew-served and personal weapons familiarization.

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September 28, 2005

Marine commandant awards 11 Purple Hearts in Afghanistan

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Wednesday, September 28, 2005

MEHTAR LAM, Afghanistan — Eleven U.S. Marines who were wounded during mid-August in eastern Afghanistan received Purple Hearts during a ceremony Monday. (2/3)

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September 26, 2005

Commandant visits Hawaii Marines

JALALABAD, Afghanistan (Sept. 26, 2005) -- The Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee, accompanied by the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John L. Estrada, on Sept. 26, visited the Marines and Sailors of 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, who are currently deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

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1/3 wraps up mountain warfare training

MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, BRIDGEPORT, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2005) -- The Lava Dogs of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, wrapped up an arduous training regime in the frigid, high-altitude mountains that make up the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., Sept. 26, with the completion of a Battalion Field Exercise that some Marines called the hardest training they had ever been through.

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Okinawa Marine is wounded in action, praised at home

CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 26, 2005) -- Lance Cpl. Christina J. Humphrey received the Purple Heart Medal for the wounds she suffered in Iraq during a ceremony on Camp Courtney Sept. 23.

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September 25, 2005

Nonstop war duty tests Marines

KANE'OHE BAY — Less than four months ago, Lt. Col. Norm Cooling and his 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines were getting ready to leave Afghanistan after a seven-month deployment.
(includes 3/3 and 1/3)

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Patrolling with U.S. Marines builds Afghan troops' skills

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, September 25, 2005

ALINGAR, Afghanistan — U.S. Marines and Afghan National Army troops had just finished meeting Thursday afternoon with local police officials in the eastern Afghanistan town of Alingar and were getting ready to continue their combined patrol through Laghman province.

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September 23, 2005

Mules assist Corps in war effort

MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, BRIDGEPORT, Calif. (Sept. 23, 2005) -- Mission of Mule Packers: To aid the Marine Corps as an alternative method for transporting crew-served weapons, ammunition, supplies, and wounded personnel to and from areas inaccessible to mechanized and air mobile transportation. (1/3)

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Born on the bayou: Sergeant rallies around support

MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, BRIDGEPORT, Calif.(Sept. 23, 2005) -- To most, the devastating images from television news reports of Hurricane Katrina that ravaged New Orleans and outlying areas with category five force, are just that — images.

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Lava Dogs prepare minds, bodies for deployment

HAWTHORNE, Nev. (Sept. 23, 2005) -- Marines from 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, based at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, “took to the hills” Sept. 17 for a weeklong training exercise that stretched, intermittently, all the way from the densely forested mountains above Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, Calif., to the rocky and sparsely vegetated high desert region of Hawthorne, Nev.

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September 22, 2005

3rd Radio Battalion Marines prepare for deployment with convoy training

MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii (Sept. 22, 2005) -- In preparation for an upcoming deployment to Iraq, Marines from 3rd Radio Battalion took part in convoy operations aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Sept. 22. (3rd Radio Bn)

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September 20, 2005

‘Geek squad’ is future of modern battlefield

The self-proclaimed cyber warriors demonstrate the Marine Corps future of the modern battlefield.

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September 19, 2005

Marines come under rocket attack on otherwise quiet election day

U.S. troops in Afghanistan stay far away from polling areas

By Steve Mraz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Monday, September 19, 2005

Afghanistan — For many of the U.S. servicemembers at bases east of Kabul, election day was spent in relative quiet and isolation inside the wire. They were largely sequestered on bases or patrolling areas away from polling places, in accordance with U.S. plans to keep a low profile during the historic vote.

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September 18, 2005

2/3 aids in Afghanistan elections

JALABAD, Afghanistan (Sept. 18, 20005) -- Marines and Sailors from 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, stood by in a security posture in order to provide a safe and stable environment for the Afghanistan elections on Sept. 18. In the elections, Afghans voted for a 249-seat lower house of Parliament and for 34 provincial councils.

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January 5, 2005

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