Ten to one

Cpl. Jessica Aranda

AL ASAD, Iraq (May 1, 2008) –He’s traveled to countries including Japan, Saudi Arabia, Hungary and Australia since his enlistment in 1982. But when he received the deployment roster for his current assignment, he noticed something unique about his upcoming duty here.

Master Gunnery Sgt. Sean P. Jevning’s unit, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13, would be deploying with MALS-11, the parent command of his son, Cpl. Robert S. Jevning.

Both father and son work in aviation ordnance, but since Robert’s enlistment two years ago, the duo decided to keep their careers separate to maintain professionalism. Now, they both contribute to the daily missions of MALS-16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward).

“We have never worked together until now,” said Sean, who is on his tenth deployment. “We both wanted the same job but we didn’t want our careers interfering with each other. I was cautious when I first found out we would be here together, because of the idea of preferential treatment.”

Robert was born in California when his father was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro. From there, he followed his father’s career to Seattle, Wash., Beaufort, S.C., and Okinawa, Japan.
“Growing up, I was fairly adamant about not becoming a Marine,” said Robert. “But as I got older, I got wiser. I made the decision, and haven’t looked back since.”

“I was very proud of my son’s decision,” said Sean. “I expected it, even though he didn’t.”

Robert, who is on his first deployment, recently won the combat meritorious sergeant board for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and is scheduled to be promoted Friday.

“To have my dad here and be able to tell him I won face-to-face was indescribable,” said Robert.

Accomplishments like this one represent how ordnance Marines stand out amongst their peers for their professionalism, explained the father and son.

“I am both professionally and personally proud,” said Sean, a native of Pflugerville, Texas. “I consider myself lucky because of the professionalism and accomplishments of all my Marines. There is also a father’s pride that can’t be described.”

The two Marines say the company of a family member has made the deployment easier for them, and their family back home.

“I think my wife has a good level of comfort knowing we are both here, taking care of each other,” said Sean. “To have him here makes me one of the luckiest men around. Not many people get to go war with their son.”