13th MEU Completes ARG MEU Exercise

Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed the weeklong ARG/ MEU Exercise near Camp Lemonier Djibouti May 26.

The exercise was a ship-to-shore training evolution designed to strengthen Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities and involved service members from the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.

“As the MEU we are the floating reserve for U.S. Central Command,” said Lt. Col. Tye R. Wallace, Commanding Officer, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. “In that capacity, we have to be ready to go anywhere in the area of operations and perform any of our standard MEU missions.”

Marines were joined by the French Foreign Legion throughout the exercise, giving both military forces a chance to learn from each other.

“We mainly paired the French Foreign Legion with Alpha Company to do combined exercises,” said Wallace. “They did some small unit infantry training and practiced room search operations to help train French forces.”

Wallace said Alpha Company conducted other training with amphibious assault vehicles and tanks to familiarize the French with U.S. Marine Corps operations.

“We also brought some of the French Officers and Legionnaires aboard the ship to give them a tour,” said Wallace. “This was to build relationships between the two companies and to show them how we live out on the sea.”

Wallace said he hopes this exercise will be a stepping stone for follow-on MEU’s to do something similar and continue to build working relationships.

“I think we came out of the exercise stronger than when we came in,” he said. “We have identified any issues and taken corrective action to bring ourselves back up to our full capabilities.”

Weapons Company, BLT 1/1, also tested some of their equipment ashore while conducting field operations.

Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, platoon sergeant for Weapons Company, said they wanted to put some rounds down range to keep up to date on marksmanship skills. This gave Weapons Company an opportunity to get some time out in the field to build unit cohesion.

“I know it was really hot out here, but both new Marines and those who have been with us for awhile learned something,” he said. “It was good to get off the ship and get some training in. I think the Marines really enjoyed themselves; I know the French did as well.”

The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).

In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.

Lance Cpl. Jesse G. Brumback, javelin gunner from Las Vegas with Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) prepare an M19 grenade launcher at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, from Alton, Ill., platoon sergeant for Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) organizes ammunition boxes holding 40mm rounds for an M19 grenade launcher at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Lance Cpl. Nick H. Kapteyn, tow gunner from Worcester, Mass. with Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) organizes ammunition boxes holding 40mm rounds for an M19 grenade launcher at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, from Alton, Ill., platoon sergeant for Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) organizes ammunition boxes holding 40mm rounds for an M19 grenade launcher at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Lance Cpl. Cody J. Niedfeldt, from Allen, Kan. and Lance Cpl. Justin C. McGregor, from Noble, Okla., gunners with Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) prepare to shoot an M19 grenade launcher at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Lance Cpl. Cody J. Niedfeldt, gunner from Allen, Kan., shoots an M19 grenade launcher as Lance Cpl. Justin C. McGregor, gunner from Noble, Okla., with Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) guides 40mm rounds into the weapon at a range near Camp Lemonier, Djibouti during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 26.

Marines with Weapons Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) set up a position on a mountainside after driving all night in an ambush training exercise during Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) exercise May 23.

Photos of the week

Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar


Lance Cpl. Jose M. Garcia, machine gunner with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, from Los Angeles helps store fresh boxes of milk which arrived during the USS Boxer's vertical replenishment May 27.

Senior enlisted Marines with the 13th MEU pose as they prepare to serve beverages to awaiting Marines and sailors in the 'Sandbox' during USS Boxer's port visit to Jebel Ali May 17-23.

Marines and sailors with the 13th MEU tighten bonds while playing in the sand during a tour they participated in while USS Boxer was in port May 17-23.

Marines enjoy a nice break from their daily routine as they have an opportunity to ride ATV's in the desert while USS Boxer conducted a port visit May 17-23.

Tiger Cruise 2009 information

FAQ FOR USS BOXER TIGER CRUISE 2009
see last FAQ for information on USS New Orleans and USS Comstock Tiger Cruise

Download USS Boxer application package here:
*(When page loads, click on blue arrow to download)*

USS Boxer Tiger Cruise Participant Package (PDF File)

USS Boxer Tiger Cruise Participant Package (Word File)



Q: How do I apply? Are there any restrictions?
A: Any family member of a 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Marine or Sailor is invited to participate in Tiger Cruise 2009, provided they are not the sponsor’s spouse or significant other, are at least 8 years of age, and are not pregnant. Once the registration and medical screening forms are complete, with no items for concern, pre-approval will be authorized. Upon pre-approval, USS BOXER will begin forwarding information to you concerning the Tiger Cruise. Final approval will occur during embarkation in Hawaii.When Tigers arrive in Hawaii and prior to embarkation of BOXER, Tigers will check-in with their sponsors. Check-in will entail a final and personal review of application and medical forms where Tigers will update information (as required) and provide final signature. If there is a medical problem or application discrepancy, Tigers may not be permitted to complete the Tiger Cruise, so it is important the Sponsor completes all forms accurately during the pre-registration process. BOXER is permitting pre-registration and pre-approval process in order to provide Tigers a quick turnaround which facilitates early travel arrangements, so please assist us with accurate and early information. This information is critical to ensuring a safe and enjoyable event onboard USS BOXER.

Q: How much will this cost?
A: The Tiger is responsible for arranging transportation to Hawaii as well as any lodging expenses you incur while in San Diego or Hawaii. Additionally, each Tiger will incur expenses of approximately $100, which will include all meals, a Tiger Cruise 2009 T-shirt, and other BOXER items. Payments will be collected upon your arrival to ship. Please remember to bring CASH. Unfortunately, we cannot accept checks or credit cards.

Q: What about hotel and travel arrangements to meet the ship?
A: It is the responsibility of the Tiger to book hotels out in town if they desire, however, all Tigers will be given the option of staying on board USS BOXER the night before departure if they so desire.The Tiger Cruise Committee will arrange transportation from a designated location to the ship the night before and the morning of departure.

Q: What should I bring with me?
A: Please download and review the "What To Bring/What Not To Bring" document in the participant package.

Q: Where will I meet the ship?
A: The Tiger will meet the ship at Naval Base, Hawaii, which is located in Pearl Harbor. We will have ship’s representatives standing by at the main gate to help you check onboard.

Q: What can I expect to do while onboard?
A: While onboard, you can expect to experience the numerous activities your Sailors and Marines perform on a daily basis. You will see the Combat Systems equipment in operation, the Engineering Plant which drives our ship through the water, an Air Demonstration with our embarked Marine Harriers and Helicopters, and Landing Craft Operations, as well as the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation-sponsored activities your Sailors and Marines partake in to have a good time!

Q: What if my Marine or Sailor is on the USS New Orleans or USS Comstock?
A: Each ship is coordinating their Tiger Cruises separately, though most of the information above is applicable for everyone.

For USS Comstock Tiger Cruise questions, please visit http://http://www.comstock.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/TigerCruise.aspx

For USS New Orleans Tiger Cruise questions, please visit http://www.new-orleans.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/family.aspx

Boxer ARG Begins Exercise in the Gulf of Aden

By Boxer Amphibious Ready Group/13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs

GULF OF ADEN (NNS) -- The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) began an ARG/ Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (MEUEX) May 19, in the Gulf of Aden and ashore at Camp Lemonier in Djibouti.

The weeklong ARG/MEUEX is an amphibious ship-to-shore training evolution designed to enhance Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities in unfamiliar terrain and involves the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.

"It is extremely important for Marines and Sailors of a deployed ARG/MEU to conduct exercises while deployed," said LtCol Tye R. Wallace, Commanding Officer, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. "In order to be the most ready force, we must constantly keep our combat skills at their peak."

The exercise demonstrates the ability of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th MEU to conduct both large-scale combat operations and humanitarian assistance anywhere in the world and will consist of tactical amphibious landings, bi-lateral training with the French Foreign Legion and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP), as well as other events.

"The MEU is expected to execute any of its assigned missions, from the sea, within six hours of receiving an execute order," said Wallace. "This means going directly into the fight from our ships. No one else does this. This is a unique capability that the Navy / Marine Corps team provides our nation. This allows our deployed naval forces to be relevant, responsive, and ready for action."

The ARG/MEUEX is scheduled to conclude May 26.
The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group is comprised of Amphibious Squadron 5, USS Boxer (LHD 4), New Orleans, Comstock, USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 Detachment 3, Naval Beach Group 1, Assault Craft Unit 5, Assault Craft Unit 1, Beach Master Unit 1 and Fleet Surgical Team 5.
The 13th MEU is comprised of a Command Element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced), Combat Logistics Battalion 13 and Battalion Landing Team 1/1.

The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th MEU is currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Electro-optical ordinance repairman: providing a better sight to the battlefield

story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

USS NEW ORLEANS (May 16, 2009) – When Marines are conducting operations it is important they are able to see, especially when it is dark or in smoky conditions. One Marine, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 13, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit has this responsibility—assisting Marines to see on the battlefield.

Sgt. Felix A. Cervantes is an electro-optical ordinance repairman, one of four with Maintenance Detachment, CLB-13, who works hard to keep Marines’ optics operational aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18).

“My job is the repair of all optical gear, anything that you can sight through on a weapon or vehicle,” said Cervantes from Crown Point, Ind. “We can work on rifle scopes, thermo imagery on rifles and a variety of missile systems.”

Cervantes said he has a broad range of responsibilities with all the different types of optics on the many weapon systems carried by Marines.

“We help out everyone across the Battalion Landing Team (BLT). Anything that’s optical, damaged, broken or that needs to be looked at, they all come to us,” said Cervantes. “The Marines need to see what they are aiming in at and that’s what we do, most of our operations are done at night so you can see how important it is to have working gear.”

Cervantes said the Marine Corps has new gear coming out all the time, and that every quarter it seems as if his job field is giving classes on new gear that has potential to be sent to them.

“We also go and inspect the new gear to give our approval before it is fielded to the Marines,” said Cervantes.

With almost six years in the Marine Corps, Cervantes enjoys what he does. He joined the Marine Corps to do the very thing he is doing, fixing optical gear.

“When I came in I wanted to do something electrical and something with maintenance,” said Cervantes. “I’m happy with what I do.”

Sgt. Mark Greene, assistant maintenance chief with the Amphibious Assault Vehicle platoon attached to BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, said Cervantes is a great asset to support the battalion.

“We have been working with him since February of 2008 during our work-up cycles,” said Greene from Black Mountain, N.C. “He would come down and test our M36E3 sights before we use them. He not only is an asset to us, but to the other units that uses optic capabilities.”

Cervantes says to him, it is important to be that go-to guy. He wants to be the person they call when nobody else can fix the problem.

“He is the guy to go to—he has the knowledge to take care of the equipment,” said Greene. “If you have an issue, he is the man to talk to.”

Greene said he has the reassurance of knowing that the equipment is going to work if Cervantes worked on it.

“When it comes to detailed work on the [weapon] sight he is the guy who has the know-how to take care of it,” Green said. “We can’t shoot unless we have someone like him to take care of our sights—he is a big asset to us.”

“I wouldn’t want to go to anyone else but him.”

Photos of the week

photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

ARABIAN GULF (May 14, 2009) – Sgt. Lucas D. Shook, Middleville, Mich. native and stinger missile gunner with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion attached to HMM-163 (Rein.), scans the horizon through binoculars aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4). Marines with 3rd LAAD Bn. provide secondary security for the ship each time it conducts a transit through a strait.

ARABIAN GULF (May 14, 2009) – Cpl. Keith J. Zalasar, Woodbridge, N.J. native and stinger missile gunner with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion attached to HMM-163 (Rein.), inspects a stinger missile aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4). Marines with 3rd LAAD Bn. provide secondary security for the ship each time it conducts a transit through a strait.

Marine of the week: Cpl. Christopher M. Brandle

photo by Lance Cpl. Jesse Leger

Name: Cpl. Christopher M. Brandle

Unit: Battalion Landing Team 1/1

Job: Food Service Specialist

Hometown: Clovis, California

Brandle joined BLT 1/1 in December of 2008. He was recently promoted to the rank of Corporal, May 1. Throughout his deployment with the 13th MEU, Cpl. Brandle has maintained a positive, motivated attitude while serving 1,300 Marines and Sailors aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) everyday at sea and even during port visits. He works an average of 14-hour shifts, seven days a week. He is currently attending the Corporal’s Leadership Course aboard the New Orleans.

Sailors and Marines Volunteer at Bahrain SPCA

by Staff Sgt. Matthew Holly

photo by 1st Lt. Curtiss Peck

MANAMA, Bahrain— Approximately 25 Marines and Sailors from the13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) volunteered at the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) May 7.

The Marines and Sailors from the Combat Engineer platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, spent several hours helping walk, wash, feed and play with animals.

1st Lt. Curtiss W. Peck said volunteering at the BSPCA was both a fun and rewarding experience.

“The shelter doesn’t normally have such a large group of volunteers,” said Peck, a Milwaukee native and platoon commander for Combat Engineer platoon. “It worked out to the benefit of the animals being able to get so much attention.”

Peck said it was important to give his Marines an opportunity to get out and be involved in an activity that was constructive for them, the community, and the animals.
But not all the benefits went to the animals; whether it was walking a dog or playing with a cat, a feeling of home came along with this outreach.

“I know that having the chance to interact with animals, especially dogs and cats which we normally keep as household pets in the U.S., would be good for the spirits of the men,” said Peck.
At the end of the day the Marines felt they made a difference by their efforts—they also had a chance to reduce the work for the staff at the shelter for a day or two.

“The workers at the shelter were extremely appreciative of the Marines and the work they put in, and they wanted to know when we could come back next,” said Peck. “The love the animals received made their day too.”

Gothard refines his accounting skills at sea

Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

For miles around in swaying waters there is not a bank in sight, only promises of what seems to be a never-ending sea. But Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) still need the same financial support they would find back on base.

Behind a barred window in the ship’s gym works Cpl. Levi A. Gothard, a financial technician with the Command Element of the 13th MEU, and one of only five Marines who are responsible for the entire MEU’s financial transactions on ship.

On a normal day, Gothard deals with transferring funds in and out of his window and accounting for all the money they have on reserve for port visits.

“We also deal with any pay issues the Marines are having, like split-pay, allotments and Navy cash-cards—­­they would all come to us,” said Gothard, a Muncie, Ind. native. “Here we deal mostly with Navy cash-cards because this ship operates without hard cash.”

Gothard says when the ship does pull into port, lines form in front of his window and the exchanging of cash begins.

“Accountability is the most important part of my job,” said Gothard. “There is so much money in your possession you have to be able to take care of it. You definitely need to be trustworthy.”

Before Gothard joined the Marines, he attended Indiana University for two years. His goal is to earn his Bachelors degree in accounting.

“I actually wanted this job in the Marine Corps. I love dealing with all the money and numbers,” said Gothard. “I am trying to apply for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Program (MESEP) as soon as I go back to school next year. Then hopefully go to Officer Candidate School (OCS).”

This program allows enlisted Marines to get a bachelor’s degree and then be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Normally, Marines both active and reserve from the ranks of corporal and above are eligible for this program.

Gothard started preparing and planning for his future early on when he joined and believes the skills he will learn here will help him accomplish his goals.

Sgt. Carter R. Hilton, a financial technician from Clinton, MD., who works with Gothard, says his Marine is a hard worker and that he is always willing to learn.

“He is quick to learn new things in this field. With all our operations here, he is not just learning one thing,” said Hilton. “We have to know everybody’s responsibility.”

Only a little over half-way through his first deployment, Gothard said he has already learned a lot in his shop.

“This will definitely benefit me with the experience and leadership skills I will need for the future,” said Gothard. “I want to become an officer in this job field, so hopefully this will be a good step in that direction.”

The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).

In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced); and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.

Photos of the week

Marines with Weapons Platoon, Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, line up on the firing line during training in the Combat Marksmanship Program on the flight deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)

Cpl. Estuardo A. Zamora, team leader with 1st Platoon, Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) happily serves breakfast to Marines aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 8. (photo by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar)


Sgt. Hugh Clark, intelligence systems chief with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, helps Marines in the human-chain to get mail to the staging area for distribution. The sorting of mail usually takes three to five hours. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, practice boat offloading maneuvers during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) training operations, May 4, after testing their new, multifuel experimental boat engines. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)

Rear Adm. Michelle Howard, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, expresses her gratitude towards the Sailors and Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group for their hard work during the past two months while conducting counter-piracy operations off the coast of Africa. (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)

Marines with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit stand at parade rest while they wait to be addressed by Rear Adm. Michelle Howard, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, aboard amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). (photo by Cpl. Robert C. Medina)

Practice makes perfect for Charlie Company

Story and photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

The silence of the morning sea air shattered as Marines with Charlie Company threw a wall of lead at targets off the side of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11.

Today’s training in the Combat Marksmanship Program refreshed combat shooting skills Marines need to be successful if engaged in a fire-fight.

“During this training we built stable firing positions so we could effectively get rounds on target in the kill zone to take out the enemy,” said Cpl. Matthew W. Ewy, team leader with Weapons Platoon Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The CMP training required Marines to perform left and right pivoting maneuvers, quick reaction drills and magazine change drills including both tactical and speed reloads.

“This keeps the weapons handling proficiency up,” said Gunnery Sgt. Xavier P. Altamirano, from Daming N.M., platoon sergeant for weapons platoon. “If you don’t do it you start to lose the skills you were taught; you always want to stay on top of it.”

Ewy, from St. Paul Park, Minn., said the training is always beneficial even if the Marines think they are good.

“You could always improve on this kind of shoot we do, nobody is perfect every time. We have some good shooters and some that need some work, so there is always room for improvement,” said Ewy.

Altamirano says there is not much for Marines to do aboard ship, so they start to get away from the training they are familiar with on land. Since most of this training is taken away, the Marines have to adapt—this is why conducting CMP training once a month is important.

The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Readiness Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and Maritime Security Operations (MSO).

In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced); and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.

Cpl. Matthew W. Ewy, team leader with Weapons Platoon, Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and native of St. Paul Park, Minn., practices pivoting maneuvers during training in the Combat Marksmanship Program on the flight deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 11.

Marines and Sailors work hard to feed personnel aboard USS Boxer

Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar

Everyday, four times a day, Marines and sailors on food service attendant (FSA) duty serve more than 1,000 service members with the rank of E-6 or below on the mess decks aboard USS Boxer.

FSA duty, or known by Marines as ‘mess duty’ and sailors by ‘cranking’, is a 30-day temporary additional duty where service members are picked by their commands to help cooks prepare and serve food.

Each month, 60 to 70 mess-men are picked from all different units from the 13th MEU and USS Boxer crew.

“It has been a great opportunity to meet and work with new people who I would have otherwise never met,” said mess-man Lance Cpl. Joe W. Rosner, a Marinette, Wis. native and scout grenadier with Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU.

For some, this is the first time they share a work environment with the other service.

“I don’t work with Marines in my workspace, so it gives me an opportunity to meet and learn about service members from the Marine Corps,” said Seaman Victoria Alvanos, an operations specialist with USS Boxer.

Mess-men with this additional duty are split into two different groups: galley and mess decks.

The galley is a stuffy room with a few fans blowing around the hot, sticky air, and those workers are responsible for serving the Marine Corps and Navy meal lines.

Some of the many responsibilities mess-men are accountable for are cutting different meats and vegetables, taking out the trash, keeping the galley clean and providing runners to keep the lines stocked with hot food.

The Marines who work the mess deck are responsible for refilling the condiments kept on each table. They are also in charge of taking out the trash, refilling juice machines, cleaning tables and washing trays and silverware, in the scullery.

During meal hours the mess decks are busy.

It’s a constant chore to keep trays and silverware cleaned and back out to the lines in a timely manner, according to Lance Cpl. Mark A. Mckenna, a machine gunner with Weapons Company, BLT 1/1. He also says that their hard work keeps the lines flowing continuously.

Mess duty has a bad reputation, but it is not as bad as everyone thinks.

Sgt. Maurice C. Toole, chief cook with the 13th MEU, said that he has noticed a change in the Marines from when they first come to mess duty and when they leave.

“A lot of Marines prefer to stay on mess duty rather than going back to their units,” said Toole, from Philadelphia, Penn.

He also said that it was surprising to see that service members want to go beyond their duties and use the ovens and grills to help out the cooks, and to see that they enjoy working in the scullery or in the galley.

“The Marines perform stellar. They help provide quality food service to Marines and Sailors,” says Toole.

Mess duty is no easy task, but with the efficiency, effectiveness and hard work of mess-men working together, the kitchens of USS Boxer are able to produce enough food to sustain all 1,000-plus people who come through its lines.

“Strong Hand, Weak Hand, Hook the Foot, Turn and Go”

Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar

A combination of Marines and sailors from various units of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted fast-rope training aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) May 9.

These jumps qualify first time fast-ropers while re-qualifying the prior experienced Marines and sailors, whose training must be refreshed every 90 days.

The training package required service members to fast-rope eight times, four of which were ‘slick runs’, carrying only the required eye protection, gloves, and kevlar for safety precautions. Mission essential gear including flacks, kevlars and weapons, along with other unit-specific equipment, was added for their four other jumps.

Two CH-46E “Sea Knight” helicopters were staged on the flight deck so their back ramps overlooked the lowered elevators in the hangar bay. Cpl. Estuardo A. Zamora, one of the helicopter rope suspension technique (HRST) masters and a team leader with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, positioned himself in one of the helicopters to ensure safety and help Marines through the qualification.

Zamora, a Fort Worth, Texas native, said that first-timers, or those have not practiced in a while, can get nervous before sliding out onto the rope from a height of 45 feet. It takes a few times of jumping for them to get comfortable on the rope and build the confidence to descend quickly and efficiently.

Before each Marine or sailor jumps, Zamora recites the command, “strong hand, weak hand, hook the foot, turn and go,” which reminds jumpers what to do with the sixty-foot, almost 2-inch thick rope sliding quickly between their hands.

“Fast-roping is something different from the everyday life of Marines,” says Gunnery Sgt. Daryl A. Noonan, a North Reading, Mass. native and 81mm mortar platoon sergeant with Weapons Company, BLT 1/1. “It keeps them motivated and proficient.”

1st Lt. Patrick J. Zuber, platoon commander of 81mm Mortar Platoon, Weapons Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, and Boston, Mass. native, gives a safety brief to over 100 Marines and sailors before beginning fast-rope training aboard USS Boxer May 9.

Cpl. Estuardo A. Zamora, helicopter rope suspension technique (HRST) master and team leader with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, from Fort Worth, Texas, helps Marines and sailors qualify in fast-roping during the training exercise aboard USS Boxer May 9.

Pfc. Brian P. Ortega, an assistant gunner and mortar man with Charlie Company, BLT 1/1, 13th MEU, from Hemet, Calif., practices proper technique while conducting fast-roping qualifications during a training exercise aboard USS Boxer May 9.

Mail call…it’s finally here

Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

A voice announces “Mail orderlies, muster in the hanger bay,” over the ship’s announcement system. Next, a crowd of servicemembers wrap around aircraft, parts and machinery in the ship’s hanger-bay, each having a sense of urgency to receive that special package they have been waiting for.
A human-chain is then formed, transporting all the ship’s mail from the flight deck elevator to the staging area. The mail is then broken down by service and unit, and eventually whittled down to the individual Marine or Sailor.
“Mail does not come everyday,” said Cpl. Dustin M. Matovich, a machine gunner with Weapons Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. “The longest we have been without mail is around a month.”
When mail does come, it’s a good day for all who receive its special gifts.
“It’s all the little things that we get in the mail that make for a good surprise,” said Matovich, also know by his platoon as “Bam Bam,” from Walkerton, Ind. “There is no other feeling like it.”
Matovich said their days on ship are spent doing weapons maintenance, vehicle maintenance, classroom instruction and physical training. He said they look forward to the occasional mail commodities.
Mail is one of the few luxuries Marines look forward to receiving when on deployment. It’s one of the best ways to raise morale of the Marines thousands of miles from home.
“Mail is not the most important thing as far as mission accomplishment, but it’s definitely high up there as far as troop morale,” said Sgt. Hugh Clark, intelligence systems chief with the 13th MEU. “It serves as a reminder from back home that there are people who appreciate what you are doing.”
Clark, from Bronx, N.Y., explained how he at one point had waited for three different mail deliveries for one special package. Each time he had sorted the mail it took between five-to-eight hours.
“It started getting frustrating, then that turned in to me just laughing about it,” said Clark. “It was to the point where I was just happy to get a bill.”
Once Clark received the package, he was ecstatic.
“It definitely brightened up that day,” said Clark. “Mail is one of those things that makes you feel good—you just know that it makes your life here on ship a little more comfortable.”

SA-330J Puma helicopters transfer mail and essential gear from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) to the flight-deck of USS Boxer (LHD 4) during a replenishment at sea (RAS) operation here. The Lewis and Clark is a Combat Logistics Force Underway Replenishment Naval vessel that resupplies ships with ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items and expendable supplies.

A working party of Marines and Sailors stage incoming mail by forming a human-chain in the hangar bay of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). The staging and sorting of mail usually takes from three to five hours.




Lance Cpl. Phillip M. Timmons, administrative clerk with the Command Element of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, smiles as he passes a box down the line to the mail staging area during replenishment at sea (RAS) operations here. The sorting of mail usually takes from three to five hours.

Reconnaissance Marines test new boat engines

Story and Photos by Cpl. Robert C. Medina

Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) operations were conducted today by Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) to test the reliability of new boat engines.
The goal of the day was to fully submerge new test engines and get them to start.
“We have new multifuel experimental engines from Marine Corps Systems Command,” said Staff Sgt. Scott R. Young, platoon sergeant with Recon. “We were having problems with dropping them in the water and getting them to start.”
The Marines successfully launched the vessels into the water by means of a helo-cast, pushing their boats out of the back of a CH-46E helicopter and jumping in after them.
Young, from San Diego, said the platoon was anxious for the opportunity to test their new engines and are always ready to get off ship for any training they can get.
In addition to testing the engines, the Marines also practiced high-speed cast and recovery from small craft, confined space maneuvering, linking up and breaking away, as well as landing drills on the back of the landing gate of the Boxer.
These skills are just a few of which Recon Marines are capable of performing.
“The reconnaissance battalions have a long mission essential task list; it encompasses operations from amphibious to ground to airborne missions,” said Capt. David Van Dam, officer in charge of Recon platoon.
In order to uphold levels of proficiency in their unique skill sets, continuous training evolutions in the water and on land are vital to success.
“Being on the ship for an extended period of time makes it really difficult for us to train to the standards that are expected of us,” said Van Dam. “So anytime we have an opportunity to train, we jump on it.”

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, practice boat offloading maneuvers during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) training operations, May 4, after testing their new, multifuel experimental boat engines.

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, practice boat offloading maneuvers during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) training operations, May 4, after testing their new, multifuel experimental boat engines.

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, jump out of the back of a CH-46E helicopter during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) operations May 24, in order to test their new, multifuel experimental boat engines. Marines also conducted maneuver training, high-speed cast and recovery drills and landings on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, turn over their boat just after jumping out of a CH-46E helicopter during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) operations May 24, in order to test their new, multifuel experimental boat engines. Marines also conducted maneuver training, high-speed cast and recovery drills and landings on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, successfully start their new, experimental Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) engines during training operations, May 24. Marines also conducted maneuver training, high-speed cast and recovery drills and landings on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, successfully start their new, experimental Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) engines during training operations, May 24. Marines also conducted maneuver training, high-speed cast and recovery drills and landings on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, successfully test their new, experimental Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) engines during training operations, May 24. Marines also conducted maneuver training, high-speed cast and recovery drills and landings on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

Marines with Reconnaissance and Surveillance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 1/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, successfully land their boat on the stern gate of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft (CRRC) training operations, May 24. Marines also successfully tested their new, multifuel experimental CRRC engines, conducted high-speed cast and recovery drills and confined space maneuver training.