Sergeants Course empowers, challenges future of Corps

http://www.dvidshub.net/news/92129/sergeants-course-empowers-challenges-future-corps 

Every day, sergeants shoulder the responsibility of leading and improving their junior Marines. One way sergeants improve themselves as the backbone of the Corps is through Sergeants Course.

I graduated from Sergeants Course Class 4-12 at Staff Noncommissioned Officers Academy aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton June 12, 2012. After my time spent attending the course, I now believe it is crucial for all sergeants to attend and not just to be professional military education complete. It’s crucial for the simple fact that like a doctor or lawyer spends years perfecting their trade, sergeants must study in a structured environment to cultivate learning to benefit future leathernecks.

For roughly seven weeks, more than 100 sergeants and I studied and learned a range of subjects, including military history, counseling, administrative procedures and combat operations.

 

Joining me were sergeants who came from a wide variety of Military Occupational Specialties. Administrative specialists, mortarmen, crew chiefs and parachute riggers were among the sergeants seeking to advance their careers. Some Marines became sergeants less than a year ago, just starting their second enlistment. There were others who had left the Corps and returned with broken time, such as one sergeant whohad served during Operation Desert Storm. Each of their ribbon racks told a unique story.

 The diverse groups of sergeants provided fresh perspectives and new ways to handle tasks and duties, whether it be conducting physical training or counseling Marines. Often during class, sergeants would voice their opinions and share their experiences.

The class was divided into six platoons, each led by a staff sergeant serving as a faculty advisor, or FA, the equivalent of a teacher or instructor. Their primary responsibilities primarily were teaching classes and guided discussions on issues all noncommissioned officers face.

Each day began with physical training led by the staff or the students. A majority of the PT sessions involved running, and strength training. Concluding PT, we received our lessons from FA’s inside an auditorium or as platoons in classrooms.

We often did homework, writing essays on the Corps valiant NCO’s, reading course books late into the night and answering scenario based questions. All these assignments covered combat leadership, integrity and mentoring subordinates. Infantry Marines who are used to making fire-plan sketches and creating patrol orders will be familiar with this curriculum to an extent. The essay writing I found straightforward, mainly due my background as a combat correspondent.

   “A lot of Marines tend to forget basic knowledge,” said Staff Sgt. Luis Figueroa, faculty advisor of 2nd Platoon, Sergeants Course, SNCOA Camp Pendleton.  “Even though you may be a combat engineer, you are ultimately still a Marine and that entails a lot of things: from the traditions that we have to the basic skills, from performing drill to knowing how to disassemble a M240B, land navigation to learning how to write up awards. Those are things that pertain to every occupation. Not just a specific one. Eventually you will have to touch an aspect of what we teach here.”

The course had to cover all the basics. Many of us needed to be educated on combat fundamentals regardless of our MOS. I, being a non-infantry Marine, really benefited from the infantry-based training. Creating patrol orders, learning how to call for fire and leading a patrol served as sobering reminders of the responsibilities sergeants face in war.

The education not only benefits us but also the academy, with many sergeants providing insight on their own experiences during class. 

 “Every cycle, it doesn’t matter what your rank is, knowledge knows no rank,” said Figueroa. “A [NCO] can teach a [SNCO] something new and vice versa. Every cycle I learn something new whether it is Military Occupational Specialty related or just Marine Corps knowledge in general. Just because you are a sergeant doesn’t mean you can’t teach me something new, just as sergeants learn from their peers.”

In addition to FA led classes, we also had visiting civilian professionals give us lessons on nutrition, Tricare, the base counseling center, and many others. The information presented to us came with a two-fold purpose. The information is for our benefit and for us to take the information and impart it onto our Marines. This will empower the junior Marines to get help where they need it.

We learned about time honored traditions such as Mess Night, an evening dinner with set customs and courtesies. There were some sergeants who had never been part of a formal Mess Night. We convened our own Mess Night, practicing how to toast, behave and follow more than 70 years of tradition. It was a fun time, something that reminded me of how we all have a big role in passing on those customs.

Near the end of the course, we were tested on our warfighting knowledge with a culminating event. One day of patrolling combined with battlefield scenarios tested platoons of 20 Marines individually and collectively.

            “I whole heartedly believe our sergeants are among the best in the world,” said Sgt. Maj. Walter C. Baldwin, director of SNCOA Camp Pendleton and Marine of 29 years. “Marines hold themselves to a different standard. We offer the challenge, ‘Can you become one of us?’ We aggressively seek that person wanting a challenge. In general, Marines are coming in better educated than they used to. We are making a better educated force, mainly because we’ve increased our standards. This course creates a better rounded Marine returning to their unit.”

            We attended Sergeants Course with our own reasons. Some came to fill a check in the box. Others came to seek information never before taught to them. One constant for all of us is that we return to our respective units armed with resources and a wealth of knowledge to utilize.

“It’s a relief to graduate,” said Sgt. Nick Reineke, a Sergeants Course student with 1st Platoon, Class 4-12. “I learned so much about the Performance Evaluation System, promotion and small details some leaders might forget to hit. It’s good for every sergeant, especially early in their grade. Basically because it gives you the tools to perform as a sergeant right away, instead of learning slowly as years go by.”

            What will happen as the Marine Corps shifts their focus from fighting in Afghanistan to preparing for the next fight? Already Marine Corps Training and Education Command is adjusting its standards and requirements for the drawdown and times ahead.

“Sergeants Course will have more required reading, articles and peer discussion among themselves,” said Baldwin.  “You will also see ethical decision making and leadership ethics woven into it too.”

We sergeants now serve in a climate not experienced since our brothers returned from   Vietnam more than 40 years ago. Those of us who stay Marine need this Course to make us more eligible for promotion. It’s time for us to choose to either leave the Corps as it shrinks, or stay in and prepare ourselves for the next unknown threat. No matter how the Corps changes, sergeants will still shoulder the responsibility of training their junior Marines for the next fight. We will continue to pass on our skills gained from experience in a time of war.

I believe the role as backbone sums up the NCO and especially the sergeant. Like a spine, we must be flexible enough to stay mobile, rigid enough to remain unwavering, straight and upright to support the requirements of those above and never fail the needs of those below as sergeants of Marines.

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‘Fighting 13th’ Marines, Sailors join Anaheim for Independence Day

 ANAHEIM, Calif. - Marines and Sailors from the 13^th Marine Expeditionary Unit marched down East Santa Anna Canyon Road, with the community of Anaheim for their Independence Day Parade, July 4, 2012.

The ‘Fighting 13th’ Color Guard and a platoon-size formation of Marines were led by Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer of the 13th MEU and Grand Marshall of the Parade.

“Today was a great way for us to show solidarity with our home community of Anaheim,” said Taylor. “The Marines looked exceptional here today. The Parade is a perfect opportunity to show the City of Anaheim, the ancestors of those who helped make this a free country, and these Marines will keep it free. I’d like to express our gratitude as well to the City, our 13th MEU Adoption Committee, Mayor Tom Tait and the council members who’ve opened their doors to us and been so generous.”

As the Marines marched down the mile-long parade route children smiled and waved flags and families clapped and cheered.

        “I’m glad to be out here,” said McKay Engh, a 17-year-old resident of Anaheim who is planning to enlist into the Marines next year. “It’s pretty cool seeing them march. These guys look sharp and are a perfect example of America’s finest.”

Some Marines brought their families to the parade and afterward joined them at Peralta Canyon Park where they relaxed with some barbequed food and local hospitality.

“I’m excited and glad to have my wife with me here today,” said Lance Cpl. Charles Sims, an intelligence systems administrator with the 13th MEU. “I felt proud to be marching out here. The residents here have been very gracious. The parade and meeting the citizens of Anaheim was the highlight of our day. It’s also great to see everyone out here reminding me of what we are fighting for.”
The City of Anaheim adopted the Unit in October 2007 and its Adoption Committee has since supported the MEU in numerous ways including, gift baskets for new parents, ball fundraising and their annual Christmas party. The ‘Fighting 13th’ will begin preparing for deployment later this summer as a force in readiness of seagoing Marines.

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Prestigious Copernicus Award awarded to 13th MEU Assistant CommO

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - During the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s seven-month deployment last year, the Command Element Communications Section worked relentlessly to ensure the constant flow of information between three ships hundreds of nautical miles apart.

This hard work did not go unnoticed. On January 24, 2012 the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) and U.S. Naval Institute recognized Capt. Gregory A. Lizak, assistant communications officer, Command Element, 13th MEU, I Marine Expeditionary Force, with the 2011 Copernicus Award. The award recognizes him for his outstanding leadership, highly advanced technical expertise, and visionary approach to communications employment that significantly enhanced the combat effectiveness of the 13th MEU and Marine Corps-wide communications initiatives. “I feel surprised,” said Lizak, who hails from Belmont, Calif. “It’s a big deal in our community to win this award. There’s tough competition and a lot of important people in our field.”

He accepted the award at the San Diego Convention Center, among his peers in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The award honors service members from those three services for accomplishments in specific and demonstrable contribution to the advancement of command and control, computing and communications, intelligence and information systems and information warfare. The contributions demonstrate exceptional initiative, leadership and insight within the nominee's area of expertise.

Maj. Noah Komnick, communications officer, 13th MEU, and prior Copernicus award recipient, submitted the nomination for Lizak.

“Probably one of the biggest reasons [I submitted his name] is the work he did with the San Antonio Class of ships,” said Komnick. “The 13th MEU did things with that class of ship that set the precedent for other San Antonio (LPD-17) Class ships that they wouldn’t normally or as easily get, in regards to new technologies being installed. We were the first ones to install [the new technology] on the USS Green Bay (LPD-20). Other MEU’s that now go out in LPD-17 Class ships can reference all the paperwork and pull up the engineering drawings and all the top site studies that’s been done. All the data and communication infrastructure installed greatly helped during our deployment.”

“Bigger picture wise, it helps other MEU’s because they’re not going to have much of a challenge to get the same things installed on their LPD ships because they’ll be able to reference the fact that Navy already approved it for the Green Bay,” concluded Komnick.

Lizak also led the integration of Adaptive Networking Wideband Waveform (ANW2) with current Marine Air-Ground Task Force infrastructure, pioneering the first deployment of ANW2 with MEU operations in U.S. Central Command. Lastly, he led the operational testing and successful operational employment of two new narrowband communication technologies never before employed by a deployed MEU.

“He’s very detailed in what he does,” said Sgt. Cristobal D. Osoria, transmissions chief with the Communications Section, Command Element, 13th MEU, I MEF. “He knows how everything should be but he has a very keen understanding to the dynamics and the fluidity of how we operate on a MEU, on ship and shore. He understands the expeditionary nature of our work. He’s also very knowledgeable of the gear we use and he employs us to the best of our abilities and ensures we get the job done.”

His drive for consistent and reliable communication derives from his experiences on previous deployments. In Iraq 2006 through 2007, as a young first lieutenant, Lizak was faced with the realities of combat and the need to adapt as a leader and communications officer.

“They push you a little harder there,” he said with a serious tone. “With the infantry Marines, even if you’re not an infantry guy, you have to think like one. Because you are so intertwined with what they are doing and seeing them go on patrol in different places and having to support them. Knowing that they live or die based on communications my Marines set up, it had a profound impact on me compared to other things I have done in my career.”

The AFCEA established the award in 1997. The name for the award came from the Copernicus Architecture used as the blueprint for the future C4I structure of the Navy. Recipients are selected based on their sustained superior performance in a C4I/IT-related job. The selections are made each year by Navy judges who review applications from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, including civilians. AFCEA and the U.S. Naval Institute present the awards at their annual Western Conference held in San Diego each winter.

Lizak has been selected for promotion to the rank of major and will move to a new duty station this year. Through Lizak’s work and dedication, the 13th MEU and other MEU’s throughout the Corps can better operate and communicate as they support and defend the United States as expeditionary warriors at sea.

“I’ve never had a communications officer like him,” finished Osoria. “He takes care of us and that’s not much more than we can ask of him.

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Warrior Kids Series finale brings families together

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON - Lt. Col. Ryan L. Coughlin, operations officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, hands out a certificate to his son, during the Warrior Kids Series graduation at the Marine Corps Family Team Building Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Dec. 14. The three-session series provided children, ages six though 12, a way to learn how to understand their parent’s deployment and feelings associated with their separation. “It was a really helpful thing for the children to go to,” said Nancy Coughlin, wife of Coughlin. “This series helped the kids to understand the feelings they went through during my husband’s recent deployment. I highly recommend it.” The 13th MEU deployed in February 2011 with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and supported multiple theater security cooperation exercises while providing maritime security in 5th and 7th Fleet Areas of Responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON - Lt. Col. Ryan L. Coughlin, operations officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, shows attendees a binder featuring artwork his children sent him on deployment, during the Warrior Kids Series graduation at the Marine Corps Family Team Building Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Dec. 14. The three-session series provided children, ages six though 12, a way to learn how to understand their parent’s deployment and feelings associated with their separation. “It was a really helpful thing for the children to go to,” said Nancy Coughlin, wife of Coughlin. “This series helped the kids to understand the feelings they went through during my husband’s recent deployment. I highly recommend it.” The 13th MEU deployed in February 2011 with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and supported multiple theater security cooperation exercises while providing maritime security in 5th and 7th Fleet Areas of Responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON – Children whose parents recently deployed with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and other I Marine Expeditionary Force commands proudly hold their certificates during the Warrior Kids Series graduation at the Marine Corps Family Team Building Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Dec. 14. The three-session series provided children, ages six though 12, a way to learn how to understand their parent’s deployment and feelings associated with their separation. “It was a really helpful thing for the children to go to,” said Nancy Coughlin, wife of Lt. Col. Ryan L. Coughlin, operations officer, 13th MEU, I MEF. “This series helped the kids to understand the feelings they went through during my husband’s recent deployment. I highly recommend it.” The 13th MEU deployed in February 2011 with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and supported multiple theater security cooperation exercises while providing maritime security in 5th and 7th Fleet Areas of Responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON - (Left) Maj. Timothy L. Kelly, staff judge advocate, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, enjoys a moment with his daughter, during the Warrior Kids Series graduation at the Marine Corps Family Team Building Center aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Dec. 14. The three-session series provided children, ages six though 12, a way to learn how to understand their parent’s deployment and feelings associated with their separation. “It was a really helpful thing for the children to go to,” said Nancy Coughlin, wife of Lt. Col. Ryan L. Coughlin, operations officer, 13th MEU, I MEF. “This series helped the kids to understand the feelings they went through during my husband’s recent deployment. I highly recommend it.” The 13th MEU deployed in February 2011 with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and supported multiple theater security cooperation exercises while providing maritime security in 5th and 7th Fleet Areas of Responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

13th MEU remembers Anaheim’s Warriors

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Color Guard present the Colors as Ronnie Guyer (Center), a Vietnam veteran, and numerous others render honors to the Flag during the Anaheim Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during ceremony, while Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th MEU spoke on behalf of the Unit. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who have been killed since 2006, as a reminder of the sacrifices its residents have made. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, speaks to attendees about the sacrifices Anaheim veterans have made in numerous wars in the past and present, during a Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Taylor, spoke on behalf of the Unit. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, speaks to attendees about the sacrifices Anaheim veterans have made in numerous wars in the past and present, during a Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Taylor, spoke on behalf of the Unit. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Lance Cpl. Obie Dubose, an administrative clerk with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, presents a wreath to Tom Tait, mayor of Anaheim and members of the City Council, during the Anaheim Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th MEU spoke on behalf of the Unit. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006, as a reminder of the sacrifices its residents have made. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Marines and a sailor with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit escort a Marine Corps Birthday Cake as part the Anaheim Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. The ceremony also honored the 236th Birthday of the Marine Corps with the reading of General John A. Lejeune’s Birthday Message and cutting of a traditional Birthday Cake. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th MEU spoke on behalf of the Unit. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006, as a reminder of the sacrifices its residents have made. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Tom Tait, the mayor of Anaheim returns a piece of traditional Marine Corps Birthday Cake to Col. Christopher D. Taylor, the commanding officer of the 13th Marine Expeditionary during the Anaheim Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. The ceremony also honored the 236th Birthday of the Marine Corps with the reading of General John A. Lejeune’s Birthday Message and cutting of a traditional Birthday Cake. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Taylor, spoke on behalf of the Unit. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006, as a reminder of the sacrifices its residents have made. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – Master Sgt. (Ret.) Ray A. Steiner, age 91 and the oldest Marine present, passes off a piece of traditional Marine Corps Birthday cake to (Right) Lance Cpl. Brogan L. Mejia, the youngest Marine present and a data network specialist with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during the Anaheim Veterans Day Ceremony at the Anaheim Veterans Monument, Nov. 10, 2011. The ceremony also honored the 236th Birthday of the Marine Corps with the reading of General John A. Lejeune’s Birthday Message and cutting of a traditional Birthday Cake. The City of Anaheim formally adopted the 13th MEU in 2007 and has since shown support and solidarity with the Marines, Sailors and their families. “The ceremony was a good way to remind Anaheim of the responsibilities of adopting a unit,” said David G. Custodio, a Marine Vietnam veteran and Anaheim native. “It also served as a reminder of the sacrifices, generations of Anaheim residents have made.” The 13th MEU provided the Color Guard and escorts for the Marine Corps Birthday Cake during the ceremony, while Col. Christopher D. Taylor, commanding officer, 13th MEU spoke on behalf of the Unit. “Our freedom today is a direct reflection of what you have sacrificed for us,” said Taylor. He also read the names of five service members from Anaheim who’ve been killed since 2006, as a reminder of the sacrifices its residents have made. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/Released)

13th MEU Commanding Officer Colonel Christopher D. Taylor

Colonel Taylor was born and raised in West Plains, Missouri, graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Engineering Management/Civil Engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla (n.k.a. Missouri University of Science & Technology), and was commissioned through the Platoon Leader Class program in August 1989. Upon completing The Basic School, Infantry Officer Course, a tour with MAG-42, Millington, TN, and flight training at NAS Pensacola, Florida, he was designated a Naval Aviator in March 1992.

As a Marine Aviator, Colonel Taylor’s operational flying tours included service with HMM-264, MCAS New River, North Carolina; HMM-166, MCAS El Toro / MCAS Miramar, California; HMM-165 MCAS Miramar, California; and as Commanding Officer of HMM-265, MCAS Futenma, Okinawa. During his flying tours, he
completed numerous deployments with 26th, 13th, and 31st Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU), Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) Caribbean, and SPMAGTF UNITAS. He also served as an Air Officer and Maritime Special Purpose Force (MSPF) Forward Air Controller (FAC) with 26th MEU. During his operational tours, Colonel Taylor has participated in operations PROVIDE PROMISE, DENY FLIGHT, SHARP GUARD, JOINT ENDEAVOR, and DECISIVE ENDEAVOR in the former Yugoslavia; SILVER WAKE in Albania; GUARDIAN RETRIEVAL in Africa; SUPPORT DEMOCRACY and UPHOLD DEMOCRACY in Haiti; OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM actions in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Horn of Africa; SEA ANGEL II in Bangladesh; and numerous other contingency operations and Theater Security Cooperation exercises around the globe.

As Commanding Officer of HMM-265 from June 2008 to June 2010, then Lieutenant Colonel Taylor led the Dragons through multiple deployments across the Western Pacific supporting numerous Humanitarian Assistance / Disaster Relief operations and Theater Security Cooperation exercises with 31st MEU and 3D MEB. The Marines and Sailors of HMM-265(REIN) were recognized for their superior performance with the Marine Corps Aviation Association Commandant’s Trophy as the best overall squadron in the Marine Corps and the Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award.

Colonel Taylor’s staff tours include service with Headquarters Marine Corps, Aviation (ASM) in Washington, DC as a Manpower Analyst and Occupational Field Sponsor; 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Okinawa, Japan as Current Operations Officer; and Marine Aircraft Group-36 where he served as Operations Officer.

Colonel Taylor earned a Masters of Military Studies from Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Quantico, Virginia where he was a Distinguished Graduate, and a Masters of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, Fort McNair, Washington DC.

Colonel Taylor’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with Gold Star, Air
Medal 1 Strike/Flight, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Gold Star, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star.

'Fighting 13th' changes command

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Oct. 7, 2011) – (Left) Col. David W. Coffman relinquishes command of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit as he passes the unit Colors to Col. Christopher D. Taylor the incoming commanding officer, during a change of command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Oct. 7, 2011. Taylor joins the MEU, after serving as the operations officer of Marine Aircraft Group 36. Coffman served as the commanding officer of the 13th MEU through two sea-based deployments and will report to the Pentagon as the Deputy Director for Operations J-3 (NMCC-3) Joint Staff, Washington D.C. The 13th MEU recently returned from seven-month deployment with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, which provided support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Lance Cpl. Massimo Selim/ Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Oct. 7, 2011) – (Right) Col. David W. Coffman relinquishes command of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit as he passes the unit Colors to Col. Christopher D. Taylor the incoming commanding officer, during a change of command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Oct. 7, 2011. Taylor joins the MEU, after serving as the operations officer of Marine Aircraft Group 36. Coffman served as the commanding officer of the 13th MEU through two sea-based deployments and will report to the Pentagon as the Deputy Director for Operations J-3 (NMCC-3) Joint Staff, Washington D.C. The 13th MEU recently returned from seven-month deployment with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, which provided support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. (Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Jesse D. Leger/ Released)

‘Fighting 13th’ returns home

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – On Sept. 28th and 29th, more than 2,000 Marines and Sailors from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit launched helicopters, amphibious assault vehicles, Landing Craft Air Cushioned and Landing Craft Utility’s to deliver them for one last amphibious landing…their homecoming at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
The 13th MEU left San Diego Harbor in February ready to respond to a number of situations and demonstrate goodwill as a sea-based Marine Air-Ground Task Force comprised of Battalion Landing Team 1/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion 13. The Marines and Sailors served aboard three ships comprising Boxer Amphibious Ready Group.) During the deployment, the MEU served aboard the USS Boxer (LHD-4), the USS Green Bay (LPD-20) and the USS Comstock (LSD-45) often operating hundreds of miles apart from each other and in different countries.
Shortly after leaving, United States Central Command needed them to provide the expeditionary and versatile capabilities that MEU’s are known the world over for. After a month of rushing through two oceans, the Fighting 13th was cruising through the Gulf of Aden as a Theater Reserve Force also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in 5th Fleet Areas of Responsibility.
“I am so proud of the 2,300 Marines and Sailors that made up this edition of 13th MEU,” said Col. David W. Coffman, the commanding officer of the 13th MEU. “They were a great team. They made a difference in these turbulent times during their six months as a forward deployed sea-based MAGTF, and now return with honor to their family and friends back here in America. Mission complete and job well done.”
The Theater Security Cooperation events involved visiting various nations and training their militaries in the same tactics the Corps uses. During the seven months the MEU compiled 3,486 flight hours, 2,225 sorties and fired more than 843,000 rounds and conducted 128 ship-to-shore movements.
“We got to learn what tactics foreign militaries use and saw them showcase their skills while we could show them how we do business,” said Cpl. Zackary T. Meier, 2nd Fire Team leader, 2nd Squad, 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th MEU. “We taught soldiers buddy rushes, basics and served as mentors. I feel I was able to develop as an NCO in the past seven months. We didn’t go to Afghanistan but I believe we all gained something from this and were a part of something bigger. We all came home too. That’s what matters.”
The MEU trained and operated in more than 10 countries throughout CENTCOM United States Africa Command and United States Pacific Command. Marines of all ranks and various occupations took part in more than eight TSC events from Kuwait to Australia.
“It feels great coming home,” said Meier. “It was my first time leaving the States and experiencing different cultures while enjoying some awesome liberty. It was different training alongside different militaries and seeing how they operate while working with them. I recommend every Marine go on a MEU deployment. It’s the reason the Corps exists. It’s definitely a life changing experience.”
The MEU will spend the next couple months settling back in their garrison routine, readjusting to life back in the states and preparing for future needs of the Corps.
“This is my son’s first homecoming and it’s been a long time coming,” said Hal Hubber, father of Cpl. Jay Hubber, a heavy equipment operator with engineer detachment, CLB 13, 13th MEU. “While they were gone, they couldn’t tell us where they were or what was going on, it definitely added some suspense and an unknown element to it. We’re proud of him and the Unit he’s a part of. Now we catch up and enjoy some time together as a family.”
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13th MEU memorializes 9/11

110911-M-OH054- 135 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2011) – Marines and Sailors from 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and crew of the USS Green Bay (LPD-20) watch a video presentation chronicling the September 11 attacks during a memorial ceremony, aboard USS Green Bay, Sept. 11. The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/ Released)

110911-M-OH054- 277 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2011) - Roger Parrino, a law enforcement professional with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and NYPD Lieutenant (ret.) shares with Marines and Sailors of the 13th MEU his experiences as a first responder at ground zero of the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks, as part of a memorial ceremony aboard the USS Green Bay, Sept. 11. The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/ Released)

110911-M-OH054-354 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2011) - Roger Parrino, a law enforcement professional with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and NYPD Lieutenant (ret.) shares with Marines and Sailors of the 13th MEU his experiences as a first responder at ground zero of the World Trade Center during the 9/11 attacks, as part of a memorial ceremony aboard the USS Green Bay, Sept. 11. The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/ Released)

110911-M-OH054- 409 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2011) – (Left) Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Noah Doughty, a Hull Technician and Navy Lt. Cmdr. Maynor Sand, the chief engineer of the USS Green Bay (LPD-20) perform “Amazing Grace” for Marines and Sailors of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and ship’s crew in remembrance of the September 11 attacks during a memorial ceremony aboard ship, Sept. 11. The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/ Released)

110911-M-OH054-420 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2011) – Marines and Sailors from 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and crew of the USS Green Bay (LPD-20) listen to Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Noah Doughty, a Hull Technician and Navy Lt. Cmdr. Maynor Sand, the chief engineer of the USS Green Bay perform “Amazing Grace” in remembrance of the September 11 attacks during a memorial ceremony, aboard USS Green Bay, Sept. 11. The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.(Official U.S. Marine Corps Photo By Cpl. Christopher O’Quin/ Released)

The ‘Fighting 13th’ remembers Guadalcanal

PACIFIC OCEAN - In the fading daylight, Marines and Sailors of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the USS Green Bay (LPD-20), stare out onto a jungle island. Sixty-nine years ago they would have beheld a different sight; bombers strafing fixed positions, naval warships sinking one another and the flashes of machineguns firing between the trees.
This island called Guadalcanal was where Marines and Sailors from 1st Marine Division fought in their first major offensive against Imperial Japan during World War II. Marines and Sailors from the 13th MEU and crew of the USS Green Bay held a ceremony Sept. 10, to honor those who fought and died there.

“It is hallowed ground where the Marines turned in one of the most incredibly heroic performances in military history,” said Lt. Col. Craig R. Wonson, commanding officer of Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th MEU. “No battle exemplifies what it means to be a Marine more than Guadalcanal.”
Marines from BLT 1/1, 13th MEU’s ground combat element, are descendants of the Leathernecks who fought on the Island for six months. Wonson spoke during the ceremony, reminding the Marines of their heritage and the significance of that Campaign.
The Battalion came ashore early in the Guadalcanal Campaign and helped secure the critically important Henderson Airfield explained Wonson. The Battalion also played a key role in the Battle of the Tenaru, delivering a decisive blow against a Japanese regiment that was sent to dislodge the Marine defenses.

Assigned to guarding the airfield from the Lunga perimeter, approximately 3,000 Marines of 1st Marine Division spent the night of August 21, 1942, repelling attacks from Japan’s 28th Infantry Regiment, First Element. In the morning, 1/1 counterattacked, crossing a river upstream from the battle area and through fire and maneuver enveloped the Japanese soldiers. This trapped and compressed the troops into a small area on the east bank of the river. The cut off Japanese Regiment was further decimated by strafing aircraft and rolling tanks. At the battle’s conclusion, only 128 of the 917 Japanese soldiers from the Regimental Element remained.

More than 69 years later, Marines and Sailors of BLT 1/1 stood on the flight deck, remembering their warrior ancestor’s sacrifices.

“The ceremony was good,” said Sgt. Melvin H. Fields, 2nd Squad leader, 3rd Platoon, Alpha Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU. “Everyone’s mood was silent and it was a solemn event. The impact of this battle was evident. Even to this day we discuss the same fire and maneuver tactics used by Marines on Guadalcanal.”

A moment of silence was followed by “Taps” in honor of those who gave their lives during the campaign. Sgt. Christopher M. Brandle, a food service specialist with Headquarters and Service Company, BLT 1/1, concluded the ceremony tossing a challenge coin into the ocean.
“I thought it was a really emotional experience,” said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Spencer Elliott, a corpsman with Personal Security Detachment, Headquarters and Service Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU. “Not very often do you get a chance to see a battlefield, where generations ago, Marines and Sailors fought [there] in the same unit as yourself. Considering how remote this island is, I consider myself fortunate to have been able to see it.”

Allies took the Island from Imperial Japan after six months of bloody fighting. With Guadalcanal firmly in the Allies’ hands, Imperial Japan was denied a means to cut off the convoy route between Australia, New Zealand and the United States. This Battle marked a turning point in the Pacific Campaign of WWII. First Battalion, 1st Marines would go on to fight on Peleliu and Okinawa further distinguishing themselves as the “First of the First.” Through the valor and heroism of 1/1 predecessors, the BLT continues to serve on sea and land.

The 13th MEU is deployed with Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. Historical battle information provided by PacificWrecks.com and Guadalcanal veteran Sgt. George Dennis, D Company, 1/1, 1st Marine Division.

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USS Green Bay Marines, Sailors run in honor of Green Bay native

110820-M-OH054-031 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 20, 2011) Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and Sailors with the USS Green Bay (LPD-20), run in the early morning hours during the 2011 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Memorial Challenge aboard ship, Aug. 20. Marines and sailors ran 40 laps around the ship’s flight deck or approximately four miles in honor of Jerabek, a Green Bay native who died April 6, 2004 during combat action in Ramadi Iraq. A run was held in Hobart Wisc., a week earlier in his honor. Governor Scott Walker proclaimed Aug. 13, 2011 to be Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Semper Fi Fund Day with proceeds from the run in the United States to benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the United States 7th Fleet area of operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin)(Released)

110820-M-OH054-296 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 20, 2011) Marines with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), run in the early morning hours during the 2011 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Memorial Challenge aboard USS Green Bay (LPD-20), Aug. 20. Marines and Sailors ran 40 laps around the ship’s flight deck or approximately four miles in honor of Jerabek, a Green Bay native who died April 6, 2004 during combat action in Ramadi Iraq. A run was held in Hobart Wisc., a week earlier in his honor. Governor Scott Walker proclaimed Aug. 13, 2011 to be Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Semper Fi Fund Day with proceeds from the run in the United States to benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the United States 7th Fleet area of operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin)(Released)

110820-M-OH054-494 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 20, 2011) Marines and Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), run in the early morning hours during the 2011 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Memorial Challenge aboard USS Green Bay (LPD-20), Aug. 20. Marines and Sailors ran 40 laps around the ship’s flight deck or approximately four miles in honor of Jerabek, a Green Bay native who died April 6, 2004 during combat action in Ramadi Iraq. A run was held in Hobart Wisc., a week earlier in his honor. Governor Scott Walker proclaimed Aug. 13, 2011 to be Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Semper Fi Fund Day with proceeds from the run in the United States to benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the United States 7th Fleet area of operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin)(Released)

110820-M-OH054-905 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 20, 2011) Navy Seaman, Amanda B. Powers, an aviation boatswains mate fuel with USS Green Bay (LPD-20), passes water to Lance Cpl. James K. Perkins, an amphibious assault vehicle crewman with AAV Platoon, Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, during the 2011 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Memorial Challenge aboard the USS Green Bay, Aug. 20. Marines and Sailors ran 40 laps around the ship’s flight deck or approximately four miles in honor of Jerabek, a Green Bay native who died April 6, 2004 during combat action in Ramadi Iraq. A run was held in Hobart Wisc., a week earlier in his honor. Governor Scott Walker proclaimed Aug. 13, 2011 to be Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Semper Fi Fund Day with proceeds from the run in the United States to benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the United States 7th Fleet area of operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin)(Released)

< 110820-M-OH054-982 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 20, 2011) Marines and Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, conclude the 2011 Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Memorial Challenge with push-ups, aboard USS Green Bay (LPD-20), Aug. 20. Marines and Sailors ran 40 laps around the ship’s flight deck or approximately four miles in honor of Jerabek, a Green Bay native who died April 6, 2004 during combat action in Ramadi Iraq. A run was held in Hobart Wisc., a week earlier in his honor. Governor Scott Walker proclaimed Aug. 13, 2011 to be Pfc. Ryan Jerabek Semper Fi Fund Day with proceeds from the run in the United States to benefit the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The 13th MEU is deployed with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the United States 7th Fleet area of operations. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O’Quin)(Released)