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Marine Corps Connection: America's Expeditionary Force in Readiness

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MCA&F Press Release

MARINES HELP OPEN NEW SOLAR-POWERED PACKING FACILITY IN AFGHANISTAN

As efforts continue in Afghanistan to improve Afghan farmers' sustainable income, the Marjah Fruit and Vegetable Packing Facility officially opened for business earlier this month. The plant will provide local farmers a controlled environment in which to clean, store and distribute their produce, helping farmers to better market their home-grown fruits and vegetables, and perhaps build a profit-generating business. "The new building has the potential to change the current paradigm in the produce market," said Maj. Erich Bergiel, project supervisor and member of the Regional Command Southwest Economic Development section. "We hope to use this facility as a pilot (program) to determine appropriateness and feasibility of the construction of similar facilities throughout Afghanistan." Setting his sights even higher, Bergiel hopes that one day he will see produce in the U.S. labeled "(Grown and) packaged in Afghanistan."
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Also Read: Marines in Helmand partner, mentor in Now Zad

NAWA: THE ESSENCE OF PROGRESS


Coalition forces have brought safety and security to once-impoverished Nawa, Helmand province, Afghanistan. Marines and Sailors worked closely with the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) in Nawa to support development and make the area a safer place to live for its residents. Local Afghan forces took responsibility for the safety of Nawa in December 2011 and ensured an active system of government has been established. Since the Marines arrived two years ago, projects such as increased education, refurbishments to shops and a new solar power project have developed in the area. The biggest project in progress in Nawa is the road that goes from Nawa to Lashkar Gah, also in Helmand province. "It's a 23-kilometer road that is the crown jewel of the development projects," said Cmdr. Edward Leitz, the civil military medical officer and education and development chief for 2nd Marine Division (Forward). "It will improve the freedom of movement and connect the people of Nawa to the provincial center in Lashkar Gah." The road connects farmers and other businesses to wider markets and major road networks. In addition to helping farmers more easily transport their goods, the road will provide ANSF with more freedom of movement to maintain security.
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Also Read: Showin' Up In Style: VMGR-252 Marines Return After 7-Month Deployment To Afghanistan

HEROES

MARINE RECEIVES SILVER STAR


On Feb. 10, Sgt. Phillip McCulloch Jr. received the Silver Star for bravery during combat in Sangin, Afghanistan. McCulloch was a squad leader with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine regiment on Jan. 8, 2011 when he and his Marines were attacked by insurgents. McCulloch took the lead in organizing them into a counter-attack while directing air support and indirect fire. "Only after six hours of fighting, with his squad dangerously low on ammunition and himself wounded in the leg, did he return to friendly lines," according to the Silver Star citation signed by Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Amos. The Silver Star is the third-highest combat award for bravery, heroism or meritorious services in the U.S. Armed Forces.
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Watch: Silver Star Ceremony

EOD MARINE AWARDED BRONZE STAR


Staff Sgt. Cassell Wiggins, a Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz., Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, was awarded the Bronze Star with a Combat "V" on Feb. 3. During his deployment to Sangin in Helmand province, Afghanistan, he went on 85 combat missions with Company K, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines. On two different occasions, while attempting to disable improvised explosive devices, Wiggin's team leader was injured. Wiggins provided life-saving first aid, prepared for the arrival of a medical evacuation helicopter and assisted the casualties on board. Later, he was in a convoy when the lead vehicle was hit by a rocket propelled grenade and the convoy was ambushed. Without heed for enemy fire, Wiggins cleared a path to help the wounded Marines. "It's a real privilege for me to have this honor of presenting this award and recognizing Staff Sgt. Wiggins' extraordinary performance of duty," said Maj. Gen. Melvin Spiese, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force deputy commanding general. "His actions saved lives. You can't make a finer statement for a Marine. EOD Marines are pretty unique creatures. They are willing to expose themselves to save their fellow Marines." The Bronze Star is the fourth-highest combat award for bravery, heroism or meritorious services in the U.S. Armed Forces.
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NEWS

WOMEN INCHING CLOSER TO COMBAT


For nearly seven decades, women have served in the Marine Corps and within the past decade, female Marines have fought and died in Iraq and Afghanistan. Change is coming to certain military occupational specialties due to a recent proposal from the Department of Defense. "Women are contributing in unprecedented ways to the military's mission," said Leon Panetta, Secretary of Defense. "Through their courage, sacrifice, patriotism and great skill, women have proven their ability to serve in an expanding number of roles on and off the battlefield. We will continue to open as many positions as possible to women so that anyone qualified to serve can have the opportunity to do so." The new regulation would still prohibit their service in infantry units, but it would enable female Marines to provide assistance to the frontlines of combat. According to officials, the new ruling will open up more positions such as communications, intelligence and logistics at the battalion level, not just the combat brigade level — meaning that female service members will be allowed to work closer with units whose primary mission is to engage in direct combat on the ground. The policy will go into effect later this spring.
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Also Read: DOD Opens More Jobs, Assignments to Military Women
Also Read: A Smile Gets You In: Looking at the Female Engagement Team

TRI-NATIONAL MARINE FORCE ASSAULTS THAI BEACH


As exercise Cobra Gold 2012 continues in Thailand, elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) with forces from the Republic of Korea and Kingdom of Thailand conducted an amphibious assault in Hat Yao, Kingdom of Thailand on Feb. 10. "We have participated in exercise Cobra Gold for 31 years," said Lt. Gen. Kenneth Glueck, Jr., deputy commander, Multinational Force and commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force. "It really brings together all the nations that contributed; participating nations come together and build teamwork and develop our capabilities together." Events during the exercise include a computer-simulated command-post exercise, field training operations, and humanitarian and civic assistance projects that will increase the standard of living for the Thai people in surrounding communities. Exercise Cobra Gold 2012 is an annual multilateral training event in which various Asia-Pacific nations execute combined military operations.
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Also Read: Exercise Cobra Gold 2012 Has Officially Begun

MARINE BOXING TEAM TAKES GOLD


The Marine Corps team won the 2012 Armed Forces Boxing Championship on Feb. 3, ending the Army's 20-year winning streak. Marine Sgt. DeJesus Gardner took gold against Army Sgt. Marvin Carey. "I told my daughter that daddy would bring her a gold medal, and daddy don't break no promises," said Gardner. Other Marine victories helped contribute to the overall team gold medal. Individual gold medalists in the championship are now preparing for the USA Boxing Nationals, a qualifier for the 2012 Olympics, and for the Conseil International du Sport Militaire's World Military Games. The Pentagon Channel begins airing the 2012 Armed Forces Boxing Championship on March 9 and will be available on demand at www.pentagonchannel.mil/boxing.
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Watch: Soldier trash talks Marine, gets whooped

VIDEO CHAT CONNECTS MARINE AND WIFE FOR CEREMONY


Thanks to video chat, Michelle L. Smoak was able to see her husband, Staff Sgt. Derek A. Smoak, get promoted to his current rank on Feb. 1, while he was aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan. During the ceremony, Staff Sgt. Smoak also received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his efforts in support of International Security Assistance Force operations. "He is a superb Marine, and the words of his peers and the general were very heartfelt," Michelle added. Col. Mark R. Hollahan, the 2nd Marine Logistics Group commanding officer, said that any opportunity for families to participate in personal events is a great experience.
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L.I.N.K.S. PROVIDES MARINE SPOUSES ANSWERS


The Lifestyle, Insights, Networking Knowledge and Skills (L.I.N.K.S.) program provides basic information about the military lifestyle and also helps participants increase their military knowledge by attending the classes. The course is developed by spouses for spouses, children and extended families. On Camp Pendleton, Calif., two general L.I.N.K.S. classes for spouses are held monthly, with classes for extended families held every semester. Additionally, two children's classes and a teen class are held during the summer. Unit-specific classes for Marines and their spouses can be arranged by request as well. For more information, call 760-726-2335, or visit www.mccscp.com/links.
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COMBAT MARKSMANSHIP MOLDS LEADERS, STRENGTHENS TIES


As part of Exercise Cobra Gold, Marines and Sailors from Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, supported and guided their Royal Thai and Republic of Korea counterparts as they trained to sharpen their combat marksmanship on Feb. 13. "Even though we come from different nations and backgrounds, the core roots of our military fundamentals exist in all countries participating," said U.S. Marine 1st. Lt. John N. Biggs, officer-in-charge, combat marksmanship range. For the training, a heavy machine gun range and an amphibious assault vehicle gunnery range were set up so that U.S. Marines could provide the Royal Thai and Republic of Korea Marines with proper weapons handling techniques and safety practices. Exercise Cobra Gold 2012 is an annual multilateral training in which various Asia-Pacific nations execute combined military operations.
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EVENTS

SPEAKER SERIES LAUNCHED PRIOR TO MARINE WEEK CLEVELAND


Although Marine Week Cleveland is still a few months away, several events leading up to the annual celebration of Community, Corps and Country will give Clevelanders a taste of what to expect in June. One of the main attractions leading up to the week-long event is the Marine Week Speaker Series, which started last week. Maj. Gen. Ronald Bailey, commander of 1st Marine Division, kicked off the series on Feb. 7, with a presentation entitled, "The Future of Afghanistan: A Military Perspective." As part of his address, Bailey said: "We are transitioning from fighting to training and adviser programs, and progress is being made. We've been going through village areas so people there will feel safe in their daily living...something we take for granted. Our troops will eventually be pulled out of Afghanistan." Today, Brig. Gen. Vincent R. Stewart, director of intelligence, will speak in Cleveland about "African American Contributions to our National Defense." Other upcoming series events will focus on NATO in the 21st century, the future of NASA space exploration, and innovative medical developments for returning wounded warriors. In addition to the speaker series, Marine sports teams and bands will visit Cleveland throughout the spring to showcase their talents at recreational centers, schools and local businesses. Marine Week Cleveland, which takes place June 11-17, will feature all that America's Expeditionary Force in Readiness has to offer, including a Marine Air Ground Task Force demonstration.
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Also Read: Speech by Major General Ronald L. Bailey kicks off Marine Week, coming June 11-17 to Cleveland
Click here for more Marine Week Cleveland information

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Member Oo-Rahs!

I received them this morning. Thank you so much for your help! you guys are awesome and you will have my business for any uniform or military need in the future as well as a hearty recommendation via word of mouth to anyone who wonders where they should purchase uniforms from!

 

Devin Claridy

I wanted to take a moment and thank everyone at the association for sponsoring the Ground Awards Dinner on 3 June at the Crystal City Marriott. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and were tremendously pleased with the hospitality shown to us and the great accommodations. As well, I wanted to thank the association for the DVD of the event that was mailed to me. It is something that I will keep and treasure for the rest of my days. Again, thanks for everything.

Semper Fidelis!

Capt Chris Conner

It is ALWAYS a pleasure to work with a consummate professional such as SgtMaj (Ret.) Frank Pulley.  As the company 1stSgt for Hotel Company, MCT, SOI (West), I’ve attended a number of his briefs and one can visually see a positive change in the student’s attention levels as the SgtMaj delivers his presentation.  The SgtMaj truly cares about the Marines and the Marine Corps and represents the MCA in an extremely admirable manner. It has been my experience that all Marines (including myself) benefit from the experience of attending a MCA presentation. And regardless of rank or years of experience, Marines should always seek to increase their level of proficiency and knowledge and MCA briefs provide us with that opportunity. 

1stSgt Scott Burton

My Name is Sergeant Major Juan. M. Hidalgo, Sergeant Major of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) out of Camp Pendleton, CA.  Sergeant Major (Ret.) Frank Pulley is one of my mentors and is someone that I have a tremendous amount of respect for. The MCA and SgtMaj Pulley do a phenomenal job in helping us recognize our Marines and Sailors and they continually demonstrate that they are always more than ready to support; anytime...Anyplace! And on behalf of the entire 13th MEU, I thank you very much!

Sergeant Major Juan. M. Hidalgo

Ms. Pappas,

Congratulations. You are more responsive and informative than any other website contact I can recall. I appreciate that very much. It’s really nice to have someone like you at the MCA “front door.”

Sincerely, Alfred

W. A. Reed King George, VA

I received my blouse last Friday and want to thank you for your efforts
in getting things done.  Also, please thank the tailors involved in
making everything right and please give my sincere thanks to those who
made the decision to make the necessary corrections at no charge to me.
 That in itself says a lot about your organization.  The blouse fits
like a glove and actually looks and feels like new.  
Thank you and all the staff who had a hand in correcting a problem and making an old man happy.  Semper Fi
 
Sincerely,

Charles W. (Chuck) Harpe

Ma’am,

Just wanted to let you know that I got the sword yesterday with time to spare. It showed up unscathed due to the excellent packing job despite the rough postal process. And most importantly it looks great and the Bahraini’s couldn’t be happier! Thanks again for all of your assistance.

R/S

Major Wayne Phelps
3d LAAD Bn XO
Security Force, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan

Major Wayne Phelps

Colonel Ford, I have to pass this on because I'm in shock that I was able to Connect (on the first Ring), Chat and concluded my business with "Sharon" in less than 30 seconds, at the MCA-Office. I was taken by surprise. Why, I'm Not used to anyone answering the phone especially on the first ring. AND...a human being...a lovely lady with a disarming voice, which at first I thought was a recording. WOW! I commend THE MCA  for doing such an outstanding service for its members...make me proud. Just think...I was not asked "if I knew my parties Extension."?
 
Wish I had a Blog...I would spread around how delighted I am. What transpired to me today is Rare, just doesn't happen anymore. See, I'm so impressed I'm blitzing you here.
 
S/F

Joe Drago

Just a quick note of thanks to Patty Everett. I arrived home from a week vacation to find a package from the Marine Corps Association. I was expecting to find one of the magazines I requested, however, I was pleasantly surprised to discover both magazines were inside. In a time when it seems no one cares about customer satisfaction I am gratified to discover that customer service is not a lost art at the MCA. Once again I thank you for your efforts on my request. It may have been thing but the effort made a huge impression.

Randall E Page

Jessica,

Thank you so much for taking the extra time and making the extra effort
to ship another hat to me for my husband last week. The second hat
arrived last Thursday... and he was tickled with it. Although it may be
"only a hat" it is a very special hat in many ways. He will always be a
proud Marine dad, and your kindness is very much appreciated.

Janet Lubbert

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