Commander of troops in Iraq reenlists 3rd MAW Marines and sailors

BAGHDAD, Iraq (July 4, 2008) – The commander of Multi-National Force – Iraq, Army Gen. David Petraeus, reenlisted more than 40 Marines and sailors assigned to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) during a ceremony at Al-Faw Palace here July 4.

The 40 Marine and sailors stood along side more than 1,200 of their fellow service members and raised their rights hands during the largest reenlistment ceremony in history.

The MNF-I commander, along with Command Sergeant Major Marvin L. Hill, the MNF-I command sergeant major, led the event, addressing the service members with motivational words and praise.

“It is great to celebrate our nation’s independence here with you and it is a true honor to preside over this reenlistment ceremony,” said Petraeus, who received a standing ovation from the audience upon his introduction. “There’s no place I’d rather be to celebrate America’s birthday than right here with you in Iraq.”

The sound of battle cries and service songs rang off the marble walls after Petraeus noted the dedication each individual exemplified with their recommitment and expressed his gratitude for their service.

“You understand the service and the sacrifice to which you are committing today,” said Petraeus. “It is impossible to calculate the value of what you are giving to our country.”

Raising their right arm and repeating after the MNF-I commander, each service member sited the Oath of Enlistment for at least the second time in their military career.
“These service members are great Americans recommitting themselves to their nation and to their brothers and sisters in arms,” said Hill. “We’re celebrating 232 years of a free nation and 35 years of an all-volunteer military with the recommitment of these great warriors to their nation and to each other.”

Service members found the opportunity to reenlist in such a unique location exciting and vowed they would never forget.

“For someone who’s been in as long as I have, to reenlist in one of Saddam’s old palaces makes this extremely special to me,” said Gunnery Sgt. Jarred Rendon, the squadron gunnery sergeant for Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16, 3rd MAW (Fwd.), aboard Al Asad Air Base. “There were more than 1,200 of our fellow brothers and sisters in arms for this mass reenlistment and to see the joint-service camaraderie was extraordinary.”

The service members had the chance to take a picture with Petraeus and also received a complimentary American flag as recognition of their accomplishment and to remember their journey to the capital city of Iraq.

Hill and Petraeus agreed the size of the ceremony sent a strong message to the opposition that U.S. Armed Forces will be here until the job’s complete.

: Lone Tree native reenlists during mass ceremony in Baghdad

AL-ASAD, Iraq (July 11, 2008) – A Lone Tree, Colo., native recently participated in a mass reenlistment ceremony at Al-Faw Palace in Baghdad July 4.

Marine Sgt. Bryna R. Morris, a career retention specialist and aerial observer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), was one of more than 1,200 service members who reaffirmed their allegiance to their nation by raising their right hands and once again stating the Oath of Enlistment.

Led by Army Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of Multi-National Force – Iraq, the largest reenlistment ceremony in history took place in one of Saddam Hussein’s old palaces.

“This [reenlistment ceremony] illustrates a true success story,” said Morris. “To do it on Fourth of July with 1200 other people who feel the same way I do.”

The MNF-I commander, along with command Sergeant Major Marvin L. Hill, the MNF-I command sergeant major, lead the event b addressing the service members with words of motivation and praise.

“It is great to celebrate our nation’s independence here with you and it is a true honor to preside over this reenlistment ceremony,” said Petraeus, who received a standing ovation from the entire audience upon his introduction. “There’s no place I’d rather be to celebrate America’s birthday than right here with you in Iraq.”
Petraeus noted the dedication each individual exemplified with their recommitment and expressed his gratitude for their service.

“You understand the service and the sacrifice to which you are committing today,” said Petraeus. “It is impossible to calculate the value of what you are giving to our country.”

Morris took all that into consideration when making her decision to reenlist.
“The Marine Corps has been my home and family for eight years now and I am not sure that any other job could offer the pride and satisfaction I feel coming to work everyday,” said Morris. “It is more than just a job for me.”
As a career planner, Morris supports Marines by facilitating their requests and helping them meet their career needs.

Her second job as an aerial observer in the CH-53 Super Stallion used by her unit, affords her the opportunity to travel throughout the country.

“It has been the highlight of my deployment,” said Morris. “We assist on the troop movement, delivery of supplies and the biggest morale booster in Iraq – mail.”
She has been deployed to Al Asad Air Base in the western Anbar province of Iraq since March 2008 and is scheduled to return to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., sometime in October.

Houston native reenlists during mass ceremony in Baghdad

AL-ASAD, Iraq (July 9, 2008) – A Houston native recently participated in a mass reenlistment ceremony at Al-Faw Palace in Baghdad July 4.

Marine Sgt. Patsy M. Lee, an imagery analyst with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), was one of more than 1,200 service members who reaffirmed their allegiance to their nation by raising their right hands and once again stating the Oath of Enlistment.

Led by Army Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of Multi-National Force – Iraq, the largest reenlistment ceremony in history took place in one of Saddam Hussein’s old palaces.

“This was a totally awesome way to reenlist,” said Lee. “I wouldn’t have chosen any other way. Being one of the 1,215 people to reenlist on the Fourth of July by General Patraeus felt like being a special collector’s item.”
The MNF-I commander, along with Command Sergeant Major Marvin L. Hill, the MNF-I command sergeant major, kicked off the event by addressing the service members with words of motivation and praise.

“It is great to celebrate our nation’s independence here with you and it is a true honor to preside over this reenlistment ceremony,” said Petraeus, who received a standing ovation from the audience upon his introduction. “There’s no place I’d rather be to celebrate America’s birthday than right here with you in Iraq.”
Petraeus noted the dedication each individual exemplified with their re-commitment and expressed his gratitude for their service.

“You understand the service and the sacrifice to which you are committing today,” said Petraeus. “It is impossible to calculate the value of what you are giving to our country.”

Lee took all that into consideration when making her decision to reenlist.
“If you had asked me to reenlist a year ago, I would have said ‘no way’ because of the amount of time I have spent away from my family,” said Lee. “However, since being on this deployment I have seen my work in action and how much I affect the overall state of this war. It is an awesome feeling to know that I greatly contribute to the safety of our Marines.”

As an imagery analyst, Lee provides important feedback on imagery collected throughout the country.

The imagery helps mission commanders in planning and carrying out operations.
“While looking at pictures for most people is more about memories and capturing special moments, I look at pictures to help save the lives of our personnel,” said Lee. “My job requires keen observation of imagery to ensure the safety of our pilots and ground troops.”

She has been deployed to Al Asad Air Base in the western Anbar province of Iraq since January of 2008 and is scheduled to return to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., in early 2009.

Golden Eagles celebrate 57th

AL ASAD, Iraq (July 10, 2008) - Marines with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), shut down an MV-22 Osprey after a mission July 10. The "Golden Eagles" recently celebrated their 57th birthday June 30th while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Marine Corps first employed the MV-22 Osprey to Iraq in 2007. Its responsibilities primarily focus on assault support missions while deployed to Iraq.

Ground and air elements unite for jump training

Al Asad, Iraq (July 3, 2008) – Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 Detachment A, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) supported a training evolution here July 3 for the Okinawa-based reconnaissancemen of 2nd platoon, Echo Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1.

The Marines of the reconnaissance battalion took to the sky aboard 352’s KC-130J cargo and tanker aircraft to participate in a static-line day jump and combat jump.

The reconnaissance battalion rotates their Marines through al-Asad to take advantage of the unique training opportunity available due to the location of the air base and the support of 3rd MAW’s (Fwd.) squadrons. The static line and combat-jump training ensures the Marines of the battalion maintain their certifications and familiarity with various methods of getting from the sky to the ground in a combat zone.

“This is a method of insertion,” said Gunnery Sgt. Tim Parkhurst, paraloft chief with 3rd Recon. “We want this to be comfortable for them so it becomes second nature so they can put all their effort and all their thoughts into the mission at hand.”

The Marines of the KC-130J squadron, nicknamed “The Raiders” must modify their aircraft prior to supporting these types of training exercise. As the KC-130J is most commonly used for aerial refueling, cargo and troop support, crewmembers must add gear and reconfigure rigging to ensure the safety of jumpers and the success of the training.

The biggest adjustment, according to Cpl. John Carroll, a loadmaster with the squadron is the addition of static lines and retriever cables. The loadmasters work the adjustments into their preflight preparation. The conversion from aerial refueling, cargo and troop transport to a rig ideal for skyborne insertion methods takes anywhere from ten minutes to an hour depending on the type of jumps the Marines will practice. The time and effort does not go unappreciated by the Marines who rely on the squadron to take them into a combat zone.

“These guys are phenomenal,” said Parkhurst. “Everything they have done for us, they have gone way above and beyond and were extremely flexible when issues would arise unexpectedly.”

This training evolution illustrates how Marine Corps ground and aviation elements work together to “become stronger as an elite fighting force,” said Carroll.

Redwing Marine supports recon jump training

AL-ASAD, Iraq (July 5, 2008) – A Redwing, Minnesota native, assigned to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), plays a vital role in ensuring his counterparts in Marine ground units maintain their jump certifications.

Cpl. John Carroll, a loadmaster with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 Detachment A, assisted the Marines of Okinawa-based 2nd platoon, Echo Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 1, in a static-line day jump and combat jump in the Anbar province July 3.

As a loadmaster for the KC-130J, a medium-sized tanker and cargo aircraft, prepping the plane for missions and overseeing all cargo and passenger loading and weight distribution falls to Carroll and his fellow loadmasters. Constantly monitoring and managing load balance is essential to a safe, successful flight, according to Carroll.

The loadmasters must take additional steps to prepare the plane for static-line and combat-jump training. The addition of static lines and retriever cables added extra time to pre-flight procedures, according to Carroll.

The training evolution is a prime example of how ground elements and the aviation elements work together to “become stronger as an elite fighting force,” according to Carroll.

3rd Reconnaissance Battalion rotates Marines through al-Asad to provide them an opportunity to participate in insertion methods training in a combat environment. The squadron, who facilitated the training, ensure the reconnaissancemen maintain their jump certifications and skills they need to focus on their mission once they have boots on the ground.
“This is a method of insertion,” said Gunnery Sgt. Tim Parkhurst, paraloft chief with the battalion. “We want this to be comfortable for them so it becomes second nature so they can put all their effort and all their thoughts into the mission at hand.

“These guys are phenomenal,” added Parkhurst referring the Marines of the KC 130J squadron, nicknamed “The Raiders.” “Everything they have done for us - they have gone way above and beyond and were extremely flexible when issues would arise unexpectedly.”
Carroll has been in al-Asad since February 2008 and will be returning home to Redwing in the upcoming months.

Marines awarded for heroism

AT-TAQADDUM, Iraq – Two Marines from Marine Light Helicopter Attack Squadron 367, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (fwd), earned Navy and Marine Corps Medals for their heroic actions during a January 2007 building fire at Forward Operating Base al-Qaim.

Sgt. Scott K. Piccoli and Cpl. Joshua S. Ybarra received the medals during a ceremony here July 1.

Their award citations detail the heroism and bravery of Piccoli and Ybarra as they rushed to the aid of Marines struggling to get free of a burning building. Without hesitating, Piccoli ordered Ybarra to alert a Crash, Fire and Rescue unit, then charged into the smoke filled structure.

Ybarra ran more than half a mile to notify emergency responders of the fire, then raced back to assist Piccoli’s efforts to evacuate the living quarters.

While dashing through the building, Piccoli discovered a Marine sleeping. As ammunition and cases of aerosol cans began to ignite in the blaze, Piccoli evacuated the Marine from the structure, but when he sought to re-enter the building to ensure everyone had escaped safely, firefighters denied reentry to the building

“It was the type of situation where any Marine would do what he was supposed to do,” said Piccoli, a native of Durango, Colo. and an airframes mechanic for the squadron.

The award citation was signed by Gen. James T. Conway, Commandant of the Marine Corps, on behalf of the President of the United States.

“I never thought I’d get something like this,” said Ybarra, also an airframes mechanic and a Phlugerville, Texas native. “We just happened to be at the right place at the right time.”

Silver Eagles honor former CO during 65th anniversary

AL-ASAD, Iraq (July 3, 2007) – The Silver Eagles of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) celebrated their 65th anniversary here July 1.

The squadron was originally organized July 1, 1943 as Marine Fighter Squadron 115 in Santa Barbara, Calif.

Major Joseph Foss, an ace who held the World War II Marine Corps record for shooting down 26 enemy aircraft, took command 16 days later.

Foss, who had recently received the Medal of Honor from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, made an impression on the pilots of the newly formed squadron, who quickly decided that VMF-115 would be known as “Joe’s Jokers.”

Joe’s Jokers joined the Pacific campaign in May 1944 where the squadron distinguished itself during the battle of Leyte Gulf and in the Sulu Archipelago, where they provided close air support, fighter cover and deep air strikes against enemy positions despite adverse weather conditions.

Having flown more than 18,000 flight hours in 5,856 sorties, the Marines of VMF-115 contributed to the success of the American campaign in the Philippines, according to Capt. Owen Smith, the VMFA-115 historical officer.

In celebration of their squadron’s heritage and 65th anniversary, The Marines of VMFA-115 painted one of their aircraft with the Joe’s Jokers insignia. The insignia also adorns the squadron members’ coveralls and flight suits.

Walt Disney studios created the original insignia, a stack of playing cards with a cartoon F4U-1 Corsair smoking a cigar on the top card, in the late 1940’s to represent the squadron’s balance of aerial combat prowess and high spirits, Smith explained.

“During this time of combat operations, it is only fitting that we paint a jet to represent our proud and distinguished history,” said Maj. Michael Juenger, VMFA-115’s executive officer. “I think the aircraft is something our squadron can be proud of and represents the Marines and sailors of VMFA-115 who served together here and have worked so hard to ensure their fellow warriors on the ground had air support overhead.”

The Joe’s Jokers emblem now resides on the tail end, while Foss’ name and Medal of Honor are printed beside the cockpit. The Marines added a South Carolina flag to the speed brake to represent the squadron’s current home, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C.

“We put a lot of thought into how we would be able to keep the originality of the old logo, while adding a little twist to represent the current squadron,” said Staff Sgt. Waldemar Velazquez, the staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge of VMFA-115’s airframes division.

As the Joe’s Jokers jet took to the skies July 2 on its first combat mission since it was re-painted, it took part in the squadron’s historical deployment as the first single-seat forward air controller-airborne capable F/A-18 squadron deployed on Iraqi soil.

“The squadron honored its birthday as we have in every conflict we have fought in,” Juenger added. “That is by flying combat missions in support of the Coalition forces on the ground.”

Team Black Rhino charges through desert

AL-JAZIRAH DESERT, Iraq (June 26, 2008) – The Incident Response Team of Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, Marine Wing Support Group 37, patrols the northern Iraqi desert as a security measure for all Marines operating in the area.

Named Team Black Rhino, these 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) Marines have become the first wing support squadron to fill the role of a mounted combat team in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Marine Wing Support Squadrons frequently travel around the Anbar province, providing aviation ground support for the flying squadrons operating in country. The team operates on a different level, providing a ground combat component like that usually found in infantry units.

While patrolling, team members speak with locals to gather information that helps the Coalition gain a better understanding of the area.

“When we’re on patrol we’re investigating our area of responsibility for any enemy activity by speaking with the local Iraqis and driving designated routes based on information gathered,” said Cpl. Joshua A. Bugg, a turret gunner for Team Black Rhino. “Some of the most beneficial information can be received by speaking with the locals.”

For the first several weeks in country, Team Black Rhino’s duties entailed providing convoy security and explosive ordnance disposal escort services to the Marines aboard Camp Taqaddum. Now, their job consists of sending several search teams to assess the local area and provide site security for their location in the Jazirah Desert.

While most of the team members consist of military police officers trained in security operations, the rest are comprised of Marines from various military occupational specialties.

“We’ve got a very unique opportunity out here,” said Cpl. Julio C. Navar, a motor transportation operator with Team Black Rhino. “We’re out here with a number of assault vehicles and infantry units and we’re equally patrolling the area. It’s great for a wing support unit to be filling this role.”

MV-22 Osprey continues successes in Iraq

AL ASAD, Iraq (June 5, 2008) – As the second MV-22 Osprey squadron to deploy to a combat zone, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), continues to build on the Osprey’s strengths and versatility in Iraq.

The MV-22 Osprey is the Marine Corps’ newest airframe and is poised to shoulder the responsibility as the Marine Corps’ sole medium lift helicopter platform in the future.

“When you have an aircraft with the lift capacity that the MV-22 has, and that can move troops or cargo in a safe and timely manner to your entire area of responsibility, your stock value tends to go up exponentially,” said Maj. Craig Leflore, MV-22 pilot and aircraft maintenance officer, VMM-162.

Staff Sgt. Ted Karp, MV-22 crew chief, VMM-162, attributes a large part of the Osprey’s success to its extended range and speed, completing the same amount of work as traditional medium lift helicopters over a greater distance in less time.
“It combines the capabilities of a turboprop airplane and the versatility of a conventional helicopter,” said Karp, a Crawford, Colo., native. “I like the fact that it will get Marines to and from the fight faster.”

Leflore, a Tyler, Texas native, has a laundry list of reasons he likes the newly fielded airframe: the ability to use high altitudes as a tactical advantage, staying above the threat of small arms, increased reaction time and the aeronautical advantage of increased options when dealing with weather.

“It (the Osprey) expands our over-the-horizon launch capability and enables us to take the fight to our enemy’s front door wherever that may be; a runway, landing zone or the middle of the desert,” concluded Leflore.

Docs celebrate 110th Birthday in Iraq

AL-ASAD, Iraq (June 17, 2008) – Navy corpsmen served alongside Marines storming beaches, tucked in trenches, raiding houses, and raising an American flag on Mt. Suribachi. Their eyes see a grueling side of war and their skillful hands provide critical interventions that save lives.

Today marks the 110th anniversary of the Navy Hospital Corps, a day to reflect on noteworthy accomplishments of the medical personnel both home and abroad.

“The Navy Hospital Corps’ birthday is special to me in a number of ways,” said Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Rodrick Jones, a corpsman with Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 4, Marine Central Command (Forward). “The Hospital Corps’ history is incredible and being here in Iraq and doing what we are supposed to do makes this day great.”

Corpsmen have contributed during peacetime emergencies and conflicts dating back to the early 1900s.

“Any place Marines go, beside them you will find a Navy corpsman: into battle, a night on the town or just hanging out at the barracks,” explained Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Sean Dustman, a corpsman with Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd MAW (Fwd.). “With us beside them, they know they have someone at their back to take care of them no matter what. And in return, they take care of us.”

According to http://www.corpsman.com. these heroes have earned 22 Medals of Honor, 174 Navy Crosses, 946 Silver Stars, 1,582 Bronze Stars and 31 Army Distinguished Service Medals.

“Some of the best Marines I have ever served with, have been Navy corpsmen,” said Sgt. Maj. David Devaney, the sergeant major for Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 4, Marine Central Command (Fwd.).

In some cases, such as the Battle of Iwo Jima, the corpsmen casualty percentage tallied more than that of the Marines in their care. Nonetheless, they continued to answer the call of “Corpsman up!” According to www.hotym.org/ymnavy.html, During World War II, 97 out of every 100 wounded men recovered due to corpsmen involvement.

“Whether I’m performing basic sick call or ensuring the daily health of the Marines, I like being there for them when I’m needed,” said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Eric Locke, a corpsman with Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd MAW (Fwd.). “Simply being called ‘Doc’ really gives me a sense of pride.”

Ironmen ensure safety of Al Asad Air Base through mounted security patrols

AL ASAD, Iraq (June 13, 2008) – With guns mounted and engines idling, the Marines of 2nd platoon, Bravo Company, Marine Wing Support Squadron 274, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), prepare to roll out on a mounted security patrol.
MWSS-274 conducts mounted security patrols to ensure hostile activity never reaches the protective wire around the air base and surrounding local villages.

The patrols are designed to create a constant Marine presence in the surrounding area, deterring insurgent activity and protecting the personnel stationed aboard Al Asad Air Base, explained Sgt. Aaron W. Baisden, squad leader, 2nd platoon.

During their patrols, the Marines cover different sectors outside al-Asad, attaining maximum coverage of the area of operation. The Marines watch for anything unusual, from hostile threats to Iraqi civilians traveling through the desert.
When Marines come across Iraqi civilians, they use the opportunity to gather information.

“Every time we come across a local national, we ensure they don’t have weapons, and we ask them if they’ve seen any problems,” said Cpl. Aaron Payne, assistant patrol leader, 2nd platoon.

Marines use the time with the Iraqis to deter insurgent activity, provide impromptu humanitarian aid and search for contraband. Once cleared, the Marines provide medicine, food and water, explained Baisden, a Milton, Fla., native.

“We will also give the children candy, soccer balls or toys -- anything to make their day better,” added Baisden.

For Payne, every person his platoon comes across provides an opportunity to improve the relationship between Coalition forces and the Iraqi people.

“I like going out and interacting with the Iraqis,” said Payne, an Asheville, N.C., native. “Most of them are very friendly. I enjoy trying to learn a little about their culture and teach them a little about our culture.”