Best Friends
All the Hotel Co. Hats, Golf Co. Hats, and the Marines of 2d RTBN HQ.
Best Moment
Coming back for my second tour and realizing that I'd made the right decision immediately when I got around the atmosphere and met the Company Staff. Being told by 1stSgt Muller, the outgoing 1stSgt, that I'm going to be acting 1stSgt for a cycle until they get a 1stSgt in. SgtMaj Whitcomb and LtCol Erickson checking in and making it fun to be here.....working with the Hotel Co. staff everyday and the Hats......enjoying working at Bn S-3 making the Bn run smoothly. Finishing up working with the Golf Co. Hats who are the most cohesive group of Marines I've worked with on this Depot.
Worst Moment
Realizing how different MCRD SD is from MCRD PI and learning what to accept and what to change without harming SD's esprit de corps.
Chain of Command
LtCol Erickson - Bn Commander Maj Solis - Bn XO SgtMaj Whitcomb - Bn SgtMaj Capt Franco - Hotel Co. CO Capt Standafer - Hotel Co. CO Capt Elizondo - Series Commander Capt McLean - Series Commander Capt Rosenblatt - Series Commander Capt Edelen - Series Commander Capt Franco - Bn Ops O Capt Rosenblatt - Bn Ops O Capt Balawender - Golf Co. CO Capt Elizondo - Golf Co. XO Capt Laurita - Golf Co. Series Cmdr Capt Knecht - Golf Co. Series Cmdr 1stSgt Amancio - Golf Co. 1stSgt
Other Memories
Bird dogging with Chief's GySgt Blua and SSgt Hall so I can see how they do business and learn MCRD SD and 2d Bn Hotel Co.'s way of doing business. Being acting 1stSgt for Hotel Co. Doing 5 cycles in Hotel, 2 as 1stSgt, 3 as a CDI, then going to Bn to be the HQ Co. 1stSgt and working with Capt Franco, our old Hotel CO who is now Bn S-3 officer....doing one last cycle as a CDI in Golf Company working with my buddy SSgt Gonzalez, the most mature SSgt I've ever worked with. Retiring out of MCRD SD after speding 2 years making Marines again.
Best Moment
MOST COHESIVE GROUP OF HATS AND OFFICERS I'VE WORKED WITH SINCE PARRIS ISLAND. NO EGOS, ZERO ISSUES WITH PERSONALITIES. WORKING WITH SSGT GONZALEZ WHO COULD BE A 1STSGT. MATURE PROFESSIONAL WHO HAS IT ALL IN PERSPECTIVE.
Worst Moment
SGT DEE'S BULLSHIT INVESTIGATION THAT WE KNEW WAS BS FROM THE BEGINNING. SEEING HIM CLEARED WAS POETIC JUSTICE.
Instructors
CO - CAPT BALAWENDER XO - CAPT ELIZONDO 1STSGT - 1STSGT AMANCIO LEAD SERIES COMMANDER - CAPT KNECHT FOLLOW SERIES COMMANDER - CAPT LAURITA LEAD SERIES CDI - ME FOLLOW SERIES CDI - SSGT GONZALEZ
Other Memories
MY 14TH AND LAST CYCLE AS A HAT AND MY RETIREMENT BILLET. GOING OUT OF THE CORPS MAKING MARINES.....
Criteria The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a... The Meritorious Service Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by outstanding noncombat achievement or by meritorious service to the United States, but not of a degree that would warrant the award of the Legion of Merit. MoreHide
Comments
Retirement Award given at my Retirement from the Marine Corps on 31 July 2014.
Criteria Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receiv... Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receive this award: Recruiting Training Battalion (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, S-3, and Sergeant-Major; Officer Candidate Company (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, First Sergeant/Company Gunnery Sergeant, and Platoon Commanders) MoreHide
Description
2d Tour Drill Instructor MCRD San Diego Hotel Co - Acting 1stSgt - 3 cycles CDI - 2 cycles Golf Co. - CDI - 1 cycle 2d Bn Ops Chief
Worst Moment
Picking up after a 6 week outpost...Sgt Ombao's NJP.......
Instructors
CO - Capt Standafer Lead Series Commander - Capt Elizondo Follow Series Commander - Capt McLean 1stSgt - 1stSgt Shaeffer Lead Series CDI - GySgt D'Alesandro Follow Series CDI - SSgt Blue All of the Hotel Hell Hats
Other Memories
Sergeant Rodriguez doing his SDI speech perfectly...I was worried about him, LOL. Laughing every day with 1stSgt Shaeffer talking about how this ain't Parris Island....an absolute BITCH of a Crucible......recruits slayed so bad that the hike up the Reaper looked like a war zone of recruits getting Silver Bullets, limping like they were shot, etc......Hats busted their asses all cycle and we know what the hell we did as a Company.
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Best Friends
All of the Hats and Company Staff of Hotel Hell
Best Moment
lauging our asses off with 1stSgt Shaeffer who was a former Parris Island Hat like me....and he was just as amazed every day as i was as to how different this place is in hard to explain ways than Parris Island. Teaching and mentoring Hats to see the big picture and getting them to realize that they're making Marines and changing lives.....seeing Hats grow into their billets and excel.
Worst Moment
breaking in a brand new 1stLt series commander who was soaked behind the ears.....like raising a child...lol.....missing being a working Hat and having my own recruits to train.....seeing Hats have a hard time being wrapped around the axle about stuff that is meaningless in the big scheme of things.....trying to get them to understand what they're REALLY doing down here.....it's not about your status/reputation with other Hats, it's about what you're doing for the future of the Corps.
Instructors
CO - Capt Franco XO - Capt Rosenblatt Lead Series Commander - Capt Elizondo Follow Series Commander - 1stLt McLean 1stSgt - 1stSgt Shaeffer Lead Series CDI - SSgt Jimenez Follow Series CDI - GySgt D'Alesandro All of the Hotel Hell Hats
Other Memories
PTing to the USS Midway in downtown SD during the day when the company staff was bored and the Hogs were in classes.....laughing our asses off with Capt Franco, one of the sharpest Mustangs I've ever served with. Freezing our asses off at the Crucible at Edson Range/Camp Pendelton......1stSgt's speech on the Reaper, shot straight from the hip......
Best Moment
Getting SSgt Jimenez a CDI job....professional and mature SSgt who has done his time. First full cycle with SgtMaj Whitcomb as Bn SgtMaj...a Hat's SgtMaj. Flawless graduation parade.....
Worst Moment
TD-12 with the 16 year old/17 year old bullshit situation with a recruit that was blown out of proportion like hell.
Instructors
CO - Capt Franco Lead Series Cmdr - Capt Rosenblatt Follow Series Cmdr - Capt Edelen Lead Series Chief DI - SSgt Medina Follow Series Chief DI - SSgt Jimenez
Other Memories
Picking up on Friday the 13th.......7 platoons, 90 man herds, summer cycle....all 3 Hat teams.....teaching 1stSgt classes to the Hogs and being able to be real as hell with them about everything......
Best Moment
being named acting 1stSgt for the cycle....seeing the whole company, Hats and Staff push through forming like a bunch of passionate Marines....the all day comedy show in the company office......emailing SSgt Medina pictures of his hero: ME.....SgtMaj Whitcomb arriving and LtCol Erickson arriving......
Worst Moment
remembering how bad forming sucks by working my 9th one and seeing that it doesn't get any easier......everyone in the company smoked but pushing through.... Sunday 1......i'll leave it at that.....sick as a dog during the Crucible.....recruit crud jumped on my on Day 1. Lead Series and the Band not hearing "forward march" from the Commander of Troops at grad.....big ass bastard Western Diamondback Rattler in the middle of the trail on the Crucible hump watching us....
Instructors
Hotel Hell Hats and Capt Franco - CO Capt Rosenblatt - Lead Series Cmdr Capt Edelen - Follow Series Cmdr SSgt Drum - Lead Series Chief DI SSgt Medina - Follow Series Chief DI
Other Memories
five suicidal recruits in the first two weeks...four other quitters in the first two weeks. Final Drill was flawless, Crucible was a bitch......recruits got slayed and i did my 1stSgt's speech perfect while feeling like total shit with fever and a hellacious head cold. Reaper hike while sick sucked like hell.
Best Friends
Hotel Hell Company Staff: Capt McAnany - CO Capt Edelen - Lead Series Cmdr Capt Rosenblatt - Follow Series Cmdr 1stSgt Muller - Company 1stSgt GySgt Blua - Follow Series Chief DI SSgt Hall - Lead Series Chief DI All the Hotel Hell Hats: SSgt Dubon, SSgt Drum, SSgt Medina, SSgt Jumbo, SSgt Favors, SSgt Jimenez, SSgt Thevenin, SSgt Luna, Sgt Villalobos, Sgt Profit, Sgt Hernandez, Sgt Craddock, Sgt Farmer, Sgt Neely, Sgt Yuen, Sgt Bodette, Sgt Desma, Sgt Garcia, Sgt Blue, Sgt Rodriguez, Sgt Gomez, Sgt Francisco, Sgt Wolfe, Sgt Dorsey, Sgt Bigness
Best Moment
Being back in the trenches, this time in SD. Doing my first Reaper Hike and seeing why SD talks shit about PI's Crucible....that thing ain't no damn joke.....
Worst Moment
Forgetting how bad the Crucible sucks for Hats....less sleep than the Hogs get.....
Instructors
Capt McAnany - CO Capt Edelen - Lead Series Cmdr Capt Rosenblatt - Follow Series Cmdr 1stSgt Muller - Company 1stSgt GySgt Blua - Follow Series Chief DI SSgt Hall - Lead Series Chief DI The Hats of Hotel Hell: SSgt Dubon, SSgt Drum, SSgt Medina, SSgt Jumbo, SSgt Favors, SSgt Jimenez, SSgt Thevenin, SSgt Luna, Sgt Villalobos, Sgt Profit, Sgt Hernandez, Sgt Craddock, Sgt Farmer, Sgt Neely, Sgt Yuen, Sgt Bodette, Sgt Desma, Sgt Garcia, Sgt Blue, Sgt Rodriguez, Sgt Gomez, Sgt Francisco, Sgt Wolfe, Sgt Dorsey, Sgt Bigness
Other Memories
Bird dogging this cycle so I can learn the ropes again.
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Description
For 3/5 and all units in I MEF/1st MarDiv in Afghanistan 2010-2011.
Best Friends
MSgt Donnie Frazier, 3/5 Comm Chief...my SC homeboy...known Donnie since '89 when we were both students at S.C. State University, drinking and running girls together....lifelong brother and Marine. this is the first time we've been stationed together in our careers. 1stSgt Lucas..awesome 1stSgt who is truly there to help Marines and lead them. GySgt Moreno, SSgt Sandahl, SSgt Parks, SSgt Ross, SSgt Ski, SSgt Voeller, Sgt Sweetman, Sgt Lentz, Sgt Vasquez and all the Wpns Plt boys...all of the crazy ass 0311's in the rifle platoons...they're all my boys...And last but not least, the Co. Gunny's best friend, my Police Sgt, Cpl Salinas, who keeps me feeling like I don't have a job half the time. The 3/5 PAT-2 boys: Capt Gunst, SSgt Garcia and all of the PAT-2 Marines and Docs: Sgt Rosas, Cpl Bruce and their 2 squads of warriors and Docs. The Bravo Battery 1/10 boys who blow shit up for us with 777 Howitzers and 81's when we call them.....nothing like some big gun's blasts to help the grunts on the ground. All the NCO's and snuffies in the 3 shop who work their asses off in a thankless job that's critical to the Bn's success. The S-3 SNCO's: MGySgt McGuire, one of the best human beings i've met in the Corps or my life, SSgt Ford who cracks me up every day and SSgt "Nacho" Sanchez who has life totally in perspective. Great bunch of grunts who know how to chill the hell out when it's time to.
Best Moment
Checking into the most decorated battalion in the Corps and getting the French Fourragere. Training our asses off in Lima Co. with a hard/gritty mindset that permeates this Bn.. 3/5 isn't the place for a Marine who doesn't want to train. Deploying to Afghanistan 31 August 2010 with my boys. Working with 3/5 PAT-2 training the Afghan Police and seeing them grow everyday into a functional, passionate unit of cops for their country.
Worst Moment
first PT session and realizing that it had been 17 years since i had run those ridgelines....becoming Co. GySgt when GySgt Moreno got hurt. Nice to move up in billet, but it sucks under those circumstances. Sgt Tawney KIA, 1stLt Byler, Cpl Faust, LCpl Gallegos, LCpl Grosky, LCpl Litinski, LCpl Goebel, LCpl Mortinsen, Cpl Pearson, LCpl Laate, Cpl Montgomery, Cpl Little, LCpl Parker, Sgt Sherwood, Sgt Kelly, LCpl Long, LCpl Gilliam, LCpl Brown, SSgt Voeller, LCpl Flora and LCpl Leasure, all WIA in Sangin/Helmand Province Afghanistan..SSgt Garcia WIA in Kajaki/Helmand Province. Our interpreter, "Mikey" WIA in Kajaki. Cpl's Ferguson and Evans WIA in Kajaki. Cpl's Roed and Bruce WIA in Kajaki, Sgt Finney WIA, LCpl Goins WIA, LCpl's Broehm and Pearson, Cpl Wyatt, LCpl Corzine, Sgt Amores, Cpl Pyeatt and 2ndLt Kelly, all KIA in Sangin or Kajaki/Helmand Province Afghanistan.
Chain of Command
Bn CO - LtCol Griffin Bn XO - Maj Curran Bn SgtMaj - SgtMaj Yagel Co. CO - Capt Murray Co. XO - WO Alvarez Co. 1stSgt - 1stSgt Pagan PAT-2 OIC - Capt Gunst S-3 - Capt Esrey S-3 Ops Chief - MGySgt McGuire
Other Memories
Being happy as hell to be back in 1st MARDIV where i was born as an FMF Marine 20 years ago. There's something about Pendleton that makes you feel history in the ridgelines. Capt Murray, probably the most real, human, but professional officer i've served with so far. A straight up grunt of a CO. Being in combat with some grunts who get better and better the tougher it gets....getting to know the Afghan Police personally and seeing the desire in their eyes to have a peaceful, lawful country that they can raise their kids in. Working with the Police Advisory Team-2 in Kajaki, textbook example of what a bunch of NCO's can do if they are trusted and empowered. Afghan Police who became our brothers......now working in the S-3 learning how thankless this 3 shop's job really is but understanding that the Bn screeches to a halt if we fuck it all up.....H+S Company Gunny......good old Hot Dogs and Soda Company....good bunch of clowns here in H+S.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in th... The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in the Marine Corps) and below who have actively participated in ground or surface combat. (World War II and Korea War service rate one ribbon for each period only) MoreHide
Description
LIMA 3/5 SANGIN/HELMAND PROVENCE AFGHANISTAN WITH MY BROTHERS
Criteria To be eligible for the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, a Service member must be assigned or attached to a unit participating in Operation Enduring Freedom for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive ... To be eligible for the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, a Service member must be assigned or attached to a unit participating in Operation Enduring Freedom for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive days in Afghanistan or meet one of the following criteria: Be engaged in actual combat against the enemy and under circumstances involving grave danger of death or serious bodily injury from enemy action, regardless of the time in Afghanistan. While participating in Operation Enduring Freedom or on official duties, regardless of time, is killed, wounded, or injured requiring medical evacuation from Afghanistan. While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over Afghanistan in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom; each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day towards the 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive day requirement. Service members who qualified for the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal by reason of service in Afghanistan between October 24, 2001 and April 30, 2005 shall remain qualified for that medal. However, any Service member who wishes to do so may be awarded the Afghanistan Campaign Medal in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for that service. Additionally, any Army soldier authorized the arrowhead device may be awarded the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with arrowhead device in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal with arrowhead device. MoreHide
Description
LIMA 3/5 SANGIN/HELMAND PROVENCE AFGHANISTAN WITH MY BROTHERS
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Description
LIMA 3/5 SANGIN/HELMAND PROVENCE AFGHANISTAN WITH MY BROTHERS
Criteria Personnel eligible for this award are those member of units or staffs as set out in the Joint Operations Area (JOA) Combined Joint Statement of Requirements taking part in NATO operations in Afghanist... Personnel eligible for this award are those member of units or staffs as set out in the Joint Operations Area (JOA) Combined Joint Statement of Requirements taking part in NATO operations in Afghanistan in accordance with the qualifying conditions. Entitlement will be acquired by those forces under NATO command or control while in the JOA, and those deployed to the JOA under national command in support of the NATO operation. MoreHide
Comments
WITH MY 3/5 BROTHERS/AFGHANISTAN 2010-2011
People You Remember All of Lima 3/5, 3/5 PAT-2/Kajaki and last but not least, the boys from Lejeune: Bravo Battery 1/10 All of Lima 3/5, 3/5 PAT-2/Kajaki and last but not least, the boys from Lejeune: Bravo Battery 1/10 with the big guns in support of us: M777 Howitzers and 81mm mortars. Also the fixed wing and rotary wing boys from the Marine Corps, USAF and Royal Air Force who rained hell down on the Taliban for us and tipped their wings after dropping their hell down......Semper Fidelis brothers, whoever you were.......we were just glad you came to join us those times......and the medevac birds from the Army, USAF and Royal Air Force who got our boys out of that hell hole......it was always too loud to talk to you with the rotor wash noise but the smiles on your faces and the pats on the back once we put the stretchers on the birds told us that you gave a damn.......Semper Fidelis whoever you are....we owe you a lot........ More
Memories Smelling the air once you get off the plane...Sgt Tawney KIA, LCpl Gallegos WIA, Cpl Faust WIA, 1stLSmelling the air once you get off the plane...Sgt Tawney KIA, LCpl Gallegos WIA, Cpl Faust WIA, 1stLt Byler WIA, LCpl Barron WIA, LCpl Grosky WIA, LCpl Congilosi WIA, LCpl Leasure WIA, Cpl Pearson WIA, LCpl Broehm and LCpl Pearson KIA, 2ndLt Kelly KIA, LCpl Litinski WIA, LCpl Goebel WIA, LCpl Mortinsen WIA, LCpl Corzine KIA, LCpl Laate WIA, Cpl Little WIA, Cpl Montgomery WIA, Cpl Wyatt KIA, LCpl Parker WIA, Sgt Sherwood WIA, Sgt Kelly WIA, LCpl Long WIA, SSgt Garcia WIA, LCpl Gilliam WIA, LCpl Brown WIA, SSgt Voeller WIA, Sgt Amores KIA, LCpl Flora WIA, Cpl Pyeatt KIA, "Mikey" the interpreter WIA, Cpl Ferguson WIA, Cpl Evans WIA, Sgt Finney WIA, LCpl Goins WIA, Cpl Bruce WIA, Cpl Roed WIA, RIP Afghan Uniformed Police officers who were with us side by side and two lost their lives fighting with us.....RIP Abdul Hamid (Gangster), the IED warrior......and seeing the Marines get more focused and more determined to blow the enemy away for their fallen and wounded brothers.... More
Best Friends
1stSgt Sweeney, 1stSgt Callahan, SSgt Viggiani, SSgt Noel, GySgt Hoover, GySgt Haley, GySgt Rosado, SSgt Valdes, GySgt Norris, SSgt Nelson, SSgt Stewart, SSgt Robinson, Sgt Wishnia, SSgt Pelaez, SSgt Fernald, GySgt Wruble, SSgt Underwood, SSgt Sheets, SSgt Maichle, Sgt Moore, SSgt Twigg, Sgt Freeman, Sgt Shepard, SSgt Macea, Capt Anderson, SSgt Mahoney, SSgt Delgadillo, SSgt Rodriguez, SSgt Richburg, SSgt Estrella, SSgt Iddins, SSgt Galinski, Sgt Diaz, SSgt Potvin, SSgt Ferrin, SSgt Santos, Sgt Martinez, Sgt Civiello, Sgt McAdams and all of the other India, Quebec and Mike Company Hats, especially SSgt Lowery, who came to the drill field after serving with me in 2/9 for 3 years at Lejeune and SSgt Sheets, the best Green Belt I've ever seen.
Best Moment
Being assigned to Big Blue, 3rd RTBN and being lucky enough to work in India Company, the most professional company on the depot, thanks to GySgt Hoover and GySgt Haley and Capt Fuller. Taking my first Crucible team out my first cycle. Winning Honor Platoon 3093 my third cycle. Working with guys like SSgt Stewart, SSgt Clay, SSgt Fernald and the best Marine I know: SSgt Noel. Being moved to Quebec Company to be an SDI and becoming a plank owner in Quebec Company since we started it back up for the first time since '68. Sweeping both Initial Drill and Final Drill with Plt 3094, with my 3rd Hat SSgt Sheets winning High Hat score on Initial Drill and me winning High Hat score on Final Drill. Going back to India to be a Series GySgt when GySgt Sanson had to fill a 1stSgt billet in Lima and then finally going to Mike Company to finish my tour as a Series GySgt.
Worst Moment
Tearing a quad muscle on my first cycle as an SDI (on TD-59, racing GySgt Wruble/sprints) and having a limp. I kept working on the leg anyway...Puking in the SDI house head after running the deck as a 4th Hat with the recruit crud on my ass hard. Every cycle when I got the recruit crud.....Getting sat down for throwing a day pack down the squad bay and throwing a Hog up against the rack when he stepped to me like he wanted to do something....thought my career was over....Starting the Confidence Course without my Series Commander thinking "he's on the way" and having a recruit fall off the A-Frame rope and the ambulance coming for a possible broken ankle....the CO of Leatherneck Square came out and wanted to know where the officer (who is required to be there) was at.....i felt like a jackass rookie Series GySgt and my Series Commander walked up (he was held up back at the Company by the CO) and smoothed it over...that could have got me NJP'd and fired....thanx Capt Burks for saving my ass...
Other Memories
Working 4 full cycles as a green belt in India Company with some great Hats then opening up Quebec Company as an SDI. Did 2 cycles as an SDI. Training recruits and seeing the transformation before our eyes. Working like a dog for three months but not wanting it to be any other way. Looking all around at Hats grinding right along beside me. Going on quota at 3rd RTBN S-3 and getting to stay in the Bn....Becoming a Series Guns, first in India Company, then going to Mike Company for good to be a Series GySgt for the rest of my tour.....Looking back over the last three years and realizing that I may never see collective suffering for a common goal like goes on down here except for in combat. The fatigue, the headaches, the total sacrifice, the hours, the constant grind...all to make Marines...and realizing that everyone down here is hurting on a daily basis...realizing that being a Series Guns is a logistics job, with operational responsibilites, but it's really a job for you to take care of and mentor the Hats and make them WANT to be here and want to make Marines without anyone fucking with them unnecessarily. Sending over 500 new Marines into the FMF and having a hand in making them Marines along with my brothers in belts and covers.
Best Friends
1stSgt Harman, SSgt Kirk, SSgt Twigg, Sgt Brown, SSgt Brown, Sgt Shepard, SSgt Pelaez, SSgt Nelson, SSgt Bautista, and all the India Hats, Series Commanders and CO
Best Moment
Coming back to my home in the "Big I" to fill the Chief spot in Lead Series and finish the cycle when GySgt Sanson went to be Lima 1stSgt during India's 3rd Phase....getting good training on being a Chief by getting to finish a cycle with India and learn the job before i go over to Mike and take over the Chief billet for good....
Worst Moment
Stepping off on the Crucible at 0300 and it was 98 degrees already....
Instructors
Lead Series Hats
Other Memories
Not wanting to leave India, but looking forward to going over to Mike and starting from FD-1 as a Chief....1stSgt Harman being an awesome 1stSgt....straight FMF to the core.....coming back to India and seeing that India still does it right.....
Best Friends
All Mike Company Hats and Staff, especially Follow Series Hats....
Best Moment
Being sent to Mike to do my first cycle from the start as a Series GySgt in Follow Series....watching these Green Belts work everyday....no superstars, just Hats who sweat and bring the damn heat everyday....cohesiveness at its best....initial drill going great...watching the platoons look damn near like final drill platoons....BWT being a mini SOI and watching all the Hats get into it....Final Drill was off the charts...Regimental Record set....great Crucible with Hats pushing the Hogs and teaching them hard.
Worst Moment
Starting the Confidence Course without my Series Commander thinking that "he's on his way"...i didn't want to get behind on the schedule...recruit falls from the A-Frame rope and hurts his ankle, ambulance comes and Leatherneck Square CO wants to know why the hell we're running the course with no officer present....rookie Series GySgt mistake.....Series Commander shows up and smooooooooths it over and saves my ass....thank you, Capt Burks....
Instructors
The Follow Series Hats: SSgt Iddins, Sgt Civiello, Sgt McAdams, Sgt Martinez, SSgt Richburg, SSgt McGee, SSgt Mercier, SSgt Santos, SSgt Galinski, SSgt Estrella, SSgt Ferrin, SSgt Donnelly, SSgt Potvin, SSgt Macea, Capt Burks, Capt Anderson, Capt Wittman, 1stSgt Lucero and all the Lead Series Hats too.
Other Memories
Best Forming i've ever witnessed....A series with three Heavies, not EDI's....I didn't want to finish my tour on the drill field in a company with Hats that I didn't know but these guys have made me feel like I've been here forever and they make me not want to leave Mike Company. Best CO I've had at PI, Capt Anderson (former Hat) and two great Series Commanders in Capt Burks and Capt Wittman. Solving the world's problems and talking politics, society and culture with Capt Burks, one of the sharpest and deepest people I've ever met in my life. Great Marine officer....
Criteria Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receiv... Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receive this award: Recruiting Training Battalion (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, S-3, and Sergeant-Major; Officer Candidate Company (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, First Sergeant/Company Gunnery Sergeant, and Platoon Commanders) MoreHide
Description
3rd RTBN MCRD PISC Dec. 2006 - Dec. 2009 India, Quebec and Mike Companies SerGySgt - 2 SDI - 2 Heavy - 1 3rd Hat - 1 4th Hat -2 8 Full cycles
Best Friends
SDI SSgt Noel, DI Sgt Pelaez, DI Sgt Moore, SerGySgt's Hoover and Haley
Best Moment
Walking out on deck as a Heavy on FD-1 and running the deck...working the first three FD's as a Heavy and having the whole checklist done by 1700 on FD-3. Being a Heavy.....the best job on a DI team. Being on SDI SSgt Noel's team.....true Marine Corps SNCO and leader.
Worst Moment
had the "Heavy" headache every day during first phase.
Instructors
SDI SSgt Noel, DI SSgt D'Alesandro (Heavy), DI Sgt Pelaez (3rd Hat), DI Sgt Moore (4th Hat)
Other Memories
Most well-rounded recruits I've ever had because of the chemistry of the Hats on that DI team. Exchange guidon at graduation with the guide and seeing tears in his eyes...the best guide and recruit i've ever had, PFC Janda...working with the most professional Marine i've ever worked with: SDI SSgt Noel...true passion for the Corps and what it stands for and straight professionalism every day, all day.
Best Friends
SDI SSgt Fernald, DI SSgt Wilson, DI Sgt Moore, SerGySgt's Hoover and Haley
Best Moment
Winning Honor Platoon and getting to work with a true professional: SDI SSgt Fernald
Worst Moment
Lights to lights to TD-9. Worst recruit crud I ever caught. Lasted two weeks.
Instructors
SDI SSgt Fernald, DI SSgt Wilson (Heavy), DI SSgt D'Alesandro (3rd Hat), DI Sgt Moore (4th Hat)
Other Memories
Slaying hogs everyday and teaching them how to be Marines....working with three workhorse hats who brought the heat everyday. Stealing time to kick knowledge everyday for 70 TD's. Smoke checking other platoons with 03/FMF knowledge and watching the recruits blast it with swagger. Having SDI SSgt Fernald tell everyone around that his platoon knew more knowledge than any other platoon and knowing that he was telling everyone that his 3rd Hat (Me) taught it.
Best Friends
My DI team: SDI SSgt D'Alesandro, DI Sgt Moore (Heavy), DI SSgt Sheets (3rd Hat)...SerGySgt Wruble, the best on the Island.
Best Moment
Working with DI SSgt Sheets....a true Horse.....Purple Heart winner (Iraq) who is passionate as hell every day, all day. Being an SDI with a team of green belts who have a work ethic that nobody can comprehend unless they have been "on the boys" before....Passion to make these kids better Marines than we are. Winning Initial Drill and seeing DI SSgt Sheets win High Hat score....Winning Final Drill and getting High Hat/high SDI score.....
Worst Moment
3 quitters by FD-2, all three kids threatening suicide.
Instructors
SDI SSgt D'Alesandro DI Sgt Moore (Heavy) DI SSgt Sheets (3rd Hat)
Other Memories
SerGySgt Wruble imitating Hats and cracking us up on the rifle range behind the tower...
Best Friends
DI Sgt Maichle, DI SSgt Chesson, DI Sgt Joseph, SerGySgt SSgt Wruble
Best Moment
giving my first SDI speech, working with SerGySgt Wruble everyday who runs the series like it's the FMF..he's a Marine who happens to be a hat.....starting up Quebec company and being a plankowner....
Worst Moment
tearing a quad muscle at PT with recruits and having a limp afterwards...still working though....screw it....
Instructors
SDI SSgt D'Alesandro, DI Sgt Maichle (Heavy), DI SSgt Chesson (3rd Hat), DI Sgt Joseph (4th Hat), SerGySgt SSgt Wruble, 1stSgt Sweeney
Other Memories
DI Sgt Maichle making it hard to keep your bearing....SSgt Chesson walking the deck like a king. Sgt Joseph, the best nick hat i've ever seen...straight off the chain....1stSgt Sweeney who could be a standup comedian even when he's blasting your ass....having 03's as a SerGySgt and 1stSgt.....FMF to the core...
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Best Friends
SDI SSgt Galeano, DI SSgt Stewart, DI SSgt Valdes, DI Sgt Ross, SerGySgt's Hoover and Haley
Best Moment
Teaching grunt knowledge at BWT and Crucible and destroying other platoons by having my recruits blast FMF knowledge constantly. Slaying hogs everyday and teaching them and holding them accountable. Making them Marines.
Worst Moment
Calling resume march instead of forward march out of extend march and losing high hat because of it.
Instructors
SDI SSgt Galeano, DI SSgt Stewart (Heavy), DI SSgt Valdes (3rd Hat), DI SSgt D'Alesandro (4th Hat), DI Sgt Ross (5th Hat)
Other Memories
Working with SSgt Valdes and winning knowledge because of his and my hard work. Working with the hat who trained me for the second cycle in a row: DI SSgt Stewart
Best Friends
SDI SSgt Clay, DI SSgt Stewart, DI SSgt Norris, SerGySgt's Hoover and Haley
Best Moment
Winning Final Drill and working my first cycle as a full cycle.
Worst Moment
First try at BDR qual
Instructors
SDI SSgt Clay, DI Sgt Stewart (Heavy), DI SSgt Norris (3rd Hat), DI SSgt D'Alesandro (4th Hat) Especially SDI SSgt Clay and SDI Sgt Fernald (who called my nick ass "SSgt" everyday even though he had 5 cycles more than me), and SSgt Viggiani, a phenomenal Marine and DI.
Other Memories
Losing 23 lbs. working the cycle and realizing what kind of grind and effort it takes to train recruits the right way for the right reasons. headaches, hunger pains, recruit crud, etc....go get on the boys, drill instructor!!....
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Chain of Command
Maj Moore, GySgt Bruno, GySgt Demalteris
Other Memories
PT on saturday morning....cramming teachbacks into your head....uniform inspections constantly....surprise ones too...best school i've ever been to.
Criteria The area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the country of Iraq and the contiguous water area out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land area of Iraq and above the contiguous... The area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the country of Iraq and the contiguous water area out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land area of Iraq and above the contiguous water area out to 12 nautical miles. To be eligible for the Iraq Campaign Medal, a Service member must be assigned or attahced to a unit participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq for 30 consecutive days or for 60 nonconsecutive days or meet one of the following criteria: Be engaged in actual combat against the enemy under circumstances involving grave danger of death or serious bodily injury from enemy action, regardless of the amount of time the individual has served in Iraq; While participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom or on official duties (regardless of the time spent in Iraq) is killed, wounded or injured to the extent that he or she requires medical evacuation from Iraq; or, While participating as a regularly assigned aircrew member flying sorties into, out of, within, or over Iraq in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom; each day that one or more sorties are flown in accordance with these criteria shall count as one day towards the 30 consecutive or 60 nonconsecutive day requirement. Service members who qualified for the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal by reason of service between March 19, 2003 and April 30, 2005 shall remain qualified for that medal. However, any such person may be awarded the Iraq Campaign Medal in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal for that service, at his or her request. In addition, any Army soldier who was authorized the arrowhead device may be awarded the Iraq Campaign Medal with arrowhead device in lieu of the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal with arrowhead device. No service member shall be entitled to both the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal for the same act, achievement, or period of service. Only one award of the Iraq Campaign Medal may be authorized for any individual. The Iraq Campaign Medal may be awarded posthumously to any Service members who loses his or her life while, as a direct result of participating in qualifying operations, without regard to the length of time in the area of eligibility, if otherwise applicable. MoreHide
Description
Given to 2/9 for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ribbon with one star for one campaign.
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Description Elections for a new Iraqi National Assembly were held under the new constitution on 15 December 2005. This election used a proportional system, with approximately 25% of the seats required to be filleElections for a new Iraqi National Assembly were held under the new constitution on 15 December 2005. This election used a proportional system, with approximately 25% of the seats required to be filled by women. After the election, a coalition government was formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, with Jalal Talabani as president.
2006
The beginning of that year was marked by government creation talks and continuous anti-coalition and attacks on mainly Shia civilians.
On 22 February 2006. bombs exploded at the Al Askari Mosque causing substantial damage.
On 2 March the director of the Baghdad morgue fled Iraq explaining, "7,000 people have been killed by death squads in recent months." The Boston Globe reported that around eight times the number of Iraqis killed by terrorist bombings during March 2006 were killed by sectarian death squads during the same period. A total of 1,313 were killed by sectarian militias while 173 were killed by suicide bombings. The LA Times later reported that about 3,800 Iraqis were killed by sectarian violence in Baghdad alone during the first three months of 2006. During April 2006, morgue numbers show that 1,091 Baghdad residents were killed by sectarian executions.
Insurgencies, frequent terrorist attacks and sectarian violence in Iraq lead to harsh criticism of US policy and fears of a failing state and civil war. The concerns were expressed by several US think tanks as well as the US ambassador to Iraq, Zalmay Khalilzad.
In early 2006, a handful of high-ranking retired generals began to demand Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld's resignation due in part to the aforementioned chaos that apparently resulted from his management of the war.
Forward Operating Base Courage handed over to Nineveh province government
Ninawa Governorate
A former presidential compound of Saddam Hussein, dubbed Forward Operating Base Courage by Coalition forces, was handed over by Charlie Company 4-11FA to the Nineveh province government on 20 July 2006. The main palace had been home to the 101st Airborne Division Main Command Post, Task Force Olympia CP, 4-11FA of the 172nd SBCT, and the Task Force Freedom CP. The palace served as the last command post for the Multinational Force-Iraq–Northwest. U.S. soldiers had spent the summer restoring the palace for the eventual handover.
Maj. Gen. Thomas R. Turner II, commanding general, Task Force Band of Brothers stated at a ceremony marking the occasion "The turnover of Forward Operating Base Courage is one of the larger efforts towards empowering the Iraqi people and represents an important step in achieving Iraqi self-reliance...The gains made during the past three years demonstrate that the provincial government, the Iraqi Army and the Iraqi Police are increasing their capabilities to take the lead for their nation’s security." Duraid Mohammed Da’ud Abbodi Kashmoula, the Nineveh province governor, stated after being handed the key to the palace "Now this palace will be used to benefit the Iraqi government and its people."
Situation in and around Baghdad
Elections for a new Iraqi National Assembly were held under the new constitution on 15 December 2005. This election used a proportional system, with approximately 25% of the seats required to be filled by women. After the election, a coalition government was formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, with Jalal Talabani as president.
2006
Al-Askari shrine bombing and Sunni-Shia fighting
On 2 March the director of the Baghdad morgue fled Iraq explaining, "7,000 people have been killed by death squads in recent months." The Boston Globe reported that around eight times the number of Iraqis killed by terrorist bombings during March 2006 were killed by sectarian death squads during the same period. A total of 1,313 were killed by sectarian militias while 173 were killed by suicide bombings. The LA Times later reported that about 3,800 Iraqis were killed by sectarian violence in Baghdad alone during the first three months of 2006. During April 2006, morgue numbers show that 1,091 Baghdad residents were killed by sectarian executions.
Insurgencies, frequent terrorist attacks and sectarian violence in Iraq lead to harsh criticism of US policy and fears of a failing state and civil war. The concerns were expressed by several US think tanks as well as the US ambassador to Iraq, Zalmay Khalilzad.
In early 2006, a handful of high-ranking retired generals began to demand Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld's resignation due in part to the aforementioned chaos that apparently resulted from his management of the war.
A US general said on 28 August 2006 violence has fallen in Baghdad by nearly a half since July, although he acknowledged a spike in bombings in the past 48 hours. "Insurgents and terrorists are hitting back in an attempt to offset the success of the Iraqi government and its security forces", Maj Gen William Caldwell told reporters. After meeting Iraqi Defence Minister Abdul-Qader Mohammed Jassim al-Mifarji, UK Defence Minister Des Browne said Iraq was moving forward. "Each time I come, I see more progress", he said.
The American military command acknowledged in the week of 16 October 2006 that it was considering an overhaul of its latest security plan for Baghdad, where three months of intensive American-led sweeps had failed to curb violence by Sunni Arab-led insurgents and Shiite and Sunni militias.
Numerous car and roadside bombs rocked the capital 9 November 2006 morning: In the Karrada district, a car bomb killed six and wounded 28 others. Another car bomb killed seven and wounded another 27 in the northern Qahira neighborhood. In South Baghdad, a mortar then a suicide car bomber killed seven and wounded 27 others near the Mishin bazaar. Near the college of Fine Arts in north-central Baghdad, a car bomb targeting an Iraqi patrol killed three and wounded six others. Two policemen were injured when they tried to dismantle a car bomb in the Zayouna district. A car bomb on Palestine Street in northeastern Baghdad meant for an Iraqi patrol killed one soldier but also wounded four civilians. Yet another car bomb in southern Baghdad wounded three people. And another car bomb near a passport services building in a northern neighborhood killed 2 people and wounded 7 others.
A roadside bomb in central Baghdad killed two and wounded 26 others. A police patrol was blasted by a roadside bomb near a petrol station; four were killed in the explosion. Another four people were wounded in the New Baghdad neighborhood by yet another roadside bomb. A bomb hidden in a sack exploded in Tayern square killing three and wounding 19. Another bomb in the Doura neighborhood killed one and wounded three. Mortars fell in Kadmiyah killing one woman and injuring eight people, and in Bayaladat where four were wounded.
Also in the capital, a group of laborers were kidnapped 9 November 2006 morning; five bodies were recovered later in the Doura neighborhood, but at least one other body was found in Baghdad 9 November 2006. Gunmen killed a police colonel and his driver in eastern Baghdad. And just outside of town, police arrested two people in a raid and discovered one corpse.
10 November 2006, Iraqi police recovered 18 bullet-riddled bodies in various neighborhoods around the capital. Police were unable to identify the bodies.
11 November 2006, two bombs planted in an outdoor market in central Baghdad exploded around noon, killing six and wounded 32 people. A car bomb and a roadside bomb were detonated five minutes apart in the market, which is in an area close to Baghdad's main commercial center. The U.S. military said it has put up a $50,000 reward for anyone who helps find an American soldier kidnapped in Baghdad. The 42-year-old Army Reserve specialist, Ahmed K. Altaie, was abducted on 23 October when he left the Green Zone, the heavily fortified section where the United States maintains its headquarters, to visit his Iraqi wife and family.
A suicide bomber killed 40 Iraqis and wounded 70 November 12, 2006 morning outside the national police headquarters' recruitment center in western Baghdad, an emergency police official said. They were among dozens of men waiting to join the police force in the Qadessiya district when a suicide bomber detonated an explosives belt. In central Baghdad, a car bomb and roadside bomb killed four Iraqi civilians and wounded 10 near the Interior Ministry complex. And in the Karrada district of central Baghdad, one Iraqi was killed and five were wounded when a car bomb exploded near an outdoor market 12 November 2006 morning. Gunmen shot dead an Iraqi officer with the new Iraqi intelligence system as he was walking towards his parked car in the southwestern Baghdad neighborhood of Bayaa. Two civilians were killed and four more were wounded when a roadside bomb hit a car in the eastern Baghdad neighborhood of Zayuna.
Violent incidents in other cities
9 November 2006.
Suwayrah: Four bodies were recovered from the Tigris River. Three of them were in police uniforms.
Amarah: A roadside bomb killed one and wounded three others in Amarah. Gunmen also shot dead a suspected former member of the Fedayeen paramilitary.
Muqdadiyah: Gunmen stormed a primary school and killed three: a guard, a policeman and a student.
Tal Afar: A roadside bomb in Tal Afar killed four, including a policeman, and wounded eight other people. Two policemen were killed and four civilians were injured when a rocket landed in a residential neighborhood.
Mosul: Six people were shot dead, including one policeman.
Latifiya: Four bodies, bound and gagged, were discovered.
Baqubah: Eight people were killed in different incidents.
11 November 2006.
Latifiya: Gunmen killed a truck driver and kidnapped 11 Iraqis after stopping four vehicles at a fake checkpoint south of the capital. At the fake checkpoint in Latifiya, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Baghdad, gunmen took the four vehicles—three minibuses and a truck—along with the kidnapped Iraqis. The Iraqis—11 men and three women—were driving from Diwaniya to Baghdad for shopping when they were stopped. The gunmen left the three women and kidnapped the 11 men, the official said.
Baqubah: North of the capital near Baquba, a suicide car bomb explosion killed two people at the main gate of a police station in Zaghanya town.
Al-Qaeda
Although Saddam Hussein was accused of having links to Al-Qaeda members, only a few Al-Qaeda members were found hiding in Iraq before the invasion, and all were of lower standings.
On 3 September 2006, Iraq says it has arrested the country's second most senior figure in Al-Qaeda, "severely wounding" an organization the US military says is spreading sectarian violence that could bring civil war. The National Security Adviser Mowaffak al-Rubaie summoned reporters to a hastily arranged news conference to announce that al Qaeda leader Hamid Juma Faris al-Suaidi had been seized some days ago. Hitherto little heard of, and also known as Abu Humam or Abu Rana, Suaidi was captured hiding in a building with a group of followers. "Al-Qaeda in Iraq is severely wounded", Rubaie said. He said Suaidi had been involved in ordering the bombing of the Shi'ite shrine in Samarra in February 2006 that unleashed the wave of tit-for-tat killings now threatening civil war. Iraqi officials blame Al-Qaeda for the attack. The group denies it. Rubaie did not give Suaidi's nationality. He said he had been tracked to the same area north of Baghdad where US forces killed Al-Qaeda's leader Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in June 2006. "He was hiding in a building used by families. He wanted to use children and women as human shields", Rubaie said. Little is publicly known about Suaidi. Rubaie called him the deputy of Abu Ayyub al-Masri, a shadowy figure, probably Egyptian, who took over the Sunni Islamist group from Zarqawi.
The US military says Al-Qaeda is a "prime instigator" of the violence between Iraq's Sunni minority and Shi'ite majority but that U.S. and Iraqi operations have "severely disrupted" it.
A handover ceremony on 2 September 2006 was postponed at the last minute, first to 3 September 2006, then indefinitely, after a dispute emerged between the government and Washington over the wording of a document outlining their armies' new working relationship. "There are some disputes", an Iraqi government source said. "We want thorough control and the freedom to make decisions independently." US spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Barry Johnson played down any arguments and expected a signing soon: "It is embarrassing but it was decided it was better not to sign the document." Practically, US troops remain the dominant force. Their tanks entered the southern, Shi'ite city of Diwaniya on 3 September 2006. The show of force came a week after Shi'ite militiamen killed 20 Iraqi troops in a battle that highlighted violent power struggles between rival Shi'ite factions in the oil-rich south.
Abu Ghraib
On 2 September 2006, the Abu Ghraib prison was formally handed over to Iraq's government. The formal transfer was conducted between Major General Jack Gardner, Commander of Task Force 134, and representatives of the Iraqi Ministry of Justice and the Iraqi army.
Iraqi government takes control of the 8th Iraqi Army Division
On 7 September 2006, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki signed a document taking control of Iraq's small naval and air forces and the 8th Iraqi Army Division, based in the south. At a ceremony marking the occasion, Gen. George Casey, the top U.S. commander in Iraq stated "From today forward, the Iraqi military responsibilities will be increasingly conceived and led by Iraqis." Previously, the U.S.-led Multi-National Force-Iraq, commanded by Casey, gave orders to the Iraqi armed forces through a joint American-Iraqi headquarters and chain of command. After the handover, the chain of command flows directly from the prime minister in his role as Iraqi commander in chief, through his Defense Ministry to the Iraqi Joint Forces Command. From there, the orders go to Iraqi units on the ground. The other nine Iraqi division remained under U.S. command, with authority gradually being transferred. U.S. military officials said there was no specific timetable for the transition.
Anbar province reported as politically "lost" to U.S. and Iraqi government
On 11 September 2006, it transpired that Colonel Peter Devlin, chief of intelligence for the Marine Corps in Iraq, had filed a secret report, described by those who have seen it as saying that the U.S. and the Iraqi government have been defeated politically in Anbar province. According to The Washington Post, an unnamed Defense Department source described Devlin as saying "there are no functioning Iraqi government institutions in Anbar, leaving a vacuum that has been filled by the insurgent group al-Qaeda in Iraq, which has become the province's most significant political force." The Post said that Devlin is a very experienced intelligence officer whose report was being taken seriously.
The next day, Major General Richard Zilmer, commander of the Marines in Iraq, stated: "We are winning this war... I have never heard any discussion about the war being lost before this weekend."
In the fall of 2006 several Iraqi tribes near Ramadi led by Sheikh Abdul Sattar Abu Risha revolted against various insurgent groups with Al Qaeda in Iraq. They formed the Anbar Awakening and helped turn the tide in favor of the US military.
Two more provinces were transferred to Provincial Iraqi Control in late 2006.
On 21 September 2006, Italian troops handed security control of the Dhi Qar province to Iraqi forces, making Dhi Qar the second of the country's 18 provinces to come under complete local control. A transfer ceremony was carried out in Nasiriyah.
On 20 December 2006, U.S. forces handed over control of the southern province of Najaf to Iraqi security forces.
2007
Sheikh Abdul Sittar who helped spark the Anbar Awakening Movement
In early 2007 US and Iraqi tribal forces secured Ramadi, as well as other cities such as Hit, Haditha, Rutbah, and Al Qaim. During the summer the US turned its attention to eastern Anbar and secured the cities of Fallujah and Al-Karmah.
The majority of the fighting was over by September 2007, although US forces would maintain a stability and advisory role for over two more years. Celebrating the victory, President George W. Bush flew to Anbar in August 2007 to congratulate Sheik Sattar and other leading tribal figures.... More
People You Remember Lt Newsome, Cpl Petit, Sgt Harkness, Sgt Jensen, Doc Gonzales, my squad brothers. all of the MarineLt Newsome, Cpl Petit, Sgt Harkness, Sgt Jensen, Doc Gonzales, my squad brothers. all of the Marines in the platoon.... More
Memories Deployed as a platoon by ourselves and ran the show for Green Zone security for all of the CoalitionDeployed as a platoon by ourselves and ran the show for Green Zone security for all of the Coalition forces. Romanian soldier being shot through the leg and seeing Doc go to work like a quiet professional......pounding the pavement on patrol and guard in downtown Baghdad every day. Joint patrols with 4/64 Infantry of the 3d Infantry Division/U. S. Army in the Karrada Peninsula....good bunch of grunts to work with...they took care of us.....KBR chow hall and gym at our disposal.......Hotter than hell in the summer on the asphalt....playing Spades every day and winning the company championship with Doc Gonzales as my partner.....running Bostons with Doc and waxing everyone's ass.... More
Best Moment
SPADES TOURNAMENTS, TRAINING AT FT. BRAGG AND CAMP DEVIL DOG WITH THOSE FOOLS. DEPLOYING TO IRAQ TWICE WITH A DAMN GOOD INFANTRY PLATOON AND MY SQUAD, WHO WERE CLOSE AS HELL.
Worst Moment
RAINSTORM AT CAMP DEVIL DOG ON THE "K" RANGES AND FREEZING AT MOUT TOWN AT BNFX. PVT CALAPINI, KIA/IRAQ/2005.
Other Memories
TWO PUMPS TO IRAQ WITH THE BEST GROUP OF GUYS I COULD GO WITH. ARGUING SPORTS WITH CPL PETIT. TRUE BROTHERHOOD. BEST GROUP OF BOOTS I'VE EVER HAD.
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determine... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determined MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determine... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determined MoreHide
Description
Given to 2/9 for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Description
Given to 2/9 for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Description In June 2004, under the auspices of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1546 the Coalition transferred limited sovereignty to a caretaker government, whose first act was to begin the trial of SIn June 2004, under the auspices of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1546 the Coalition transferred limited sovereignty to a caretaker government, whose first act was to begin the trial of Saddam Hussein. The government began the process of moving towards elections, though the insurgency, and the lack of cohesion within the government itself, led to repeated delays.
Militia leader Muqtada al-Sadr used his grass-roots organization and Mahdi Militia of over a thousand armed men to take control of the streets of Baghdad. The CPA soon realized it had lost control and closed down his popular newspaper. This resulted in mass anti-American demonstrations. The CPA then attempted to arrest al-Sadr on murder charges. He defied the American military by taking refuge in the Holy City of Najaf.
Through the months of July and August, a series of skirmishes in and around Najaf culminated with the Imman Ali Mosque itself under siege, only to have a peace deal brokered by al-Sistani in late August. Al-Sadr then declared a national cease fire, and opened negotiations with the American and government forces. His militia was incorporated into the Iraqi security forces and al-Sadr is now a special envoy. This incident was the turning point in the failed American efforts to install Ahmed Chalabi as leader of the interim government. The CPA then put Iyad Allawi in power; ultimately he was only marginally more popular than Chalabi.
The Allawi government, with significant numbers of holdovers from the Coalition Provisional Authority, began to engage in attempts to secure control of the oil infrastructure, the source of Iraq's foreign currency, and control of the major cities of Iraq. The continuing insurgencies, poor state of the Iraqi Army, disorganized condition of police and security forces, as well as the lack of revenue hampered their efforts to assert control. In addition, both former Ba'athist elements and militant Shia groups engaged in sabotage, terrorism, open rebellion, and establishing their own security zones in all or part of a dozen cities. The Allawi government vowed to crush resistance, using U.S. troops, but at the same time negotiated with Muqtada al-Sadr.
Offensives and counteroffensives
Beginning 8 November, American and Iraqi forces invaded the militant stronghold of Fallujah in Operation Phantom Fury, killing and capturing many insurgents. Many rebels were thought to have fled the city before the invasion. U.S.-backed figures put insurgency losses at over 2,000. It was the bloodiest single battle for the U.S. in the war, with 92 Americans dead and several hundred wounded. A video showing the killing of at least one unarmed and wounded man by an American serviceman surfaced, throwing renewed doubt and outrage at the efficiency of the U.S. occupation. The Marine was later cleared of any wrongdoing because the Marines had been warned that the enemy would sometimes feign death and booby-trap bodies as a tactic to lure Marines to their deaths. November was the deadliest month of the occupation for coalition troops, surpassing April.
Another offensive was launched by insurgents during the month of November in Mosul. U.S. forces backed by peshmerga fighters launched a counteroffensive which resulted in the Battle of Mosul (2004). The fighting in Mosul occurred concurrently with the fighting in Fallujah and attributed to the high number of American casualties taken that month.
In December, 14 American soldiers were killed and over a hundred injured when an explosion struck an open-tent mess hall in Mosul, where President Bush had spent Thanksgiving with troops the year before. The explosion is believed to have come from a suicide bomber.
After a review of the military strategy in the end of 2004, then commanding general of the MNF-I, General George W. Casey, Jr. directed the Coalition forces to shift their focus from fighting insurgents to training Iraqis. At the time, the Iraqi insurgency was mainly directed against the occupation and it was believed that if the Coalition would reduce its presence then the insurgency would diminish. Military planners hoped that national elections would change the perception of being under occupation, stabilize the situation and allow the Coalition to reduce its presence.
2005
Iraqi elections and aftermath
Voters in the 2005 Iraqi legislative election
Main article: Iraqi legislative election, January 2005
On 30 January, an election for a government to draft a permanent constitution took place. Although some violence and lack of widespread Sunni Arab participation marred the event, most of the eligible Kurd and Shia populace participated. On 4 February, Paul Wolfowitz announced that 15,000 U.S. troops whose tours of duty had been extended in order to provide election security would be pulled out of Iraq by the next month.[18] February, March and April proved to be relatively peaceful months compared to the carnage of November and January, with insurgent attacks averaging 30 a day from the average 70.
Hopes for a quick end to an insurgency and a withdrawal of U.S. troops were dashed at the advent of May, Iraq's bloodiest month since the invasion of U.S. forces in March and April 2003. Suicide bombers, believed to be mainly disheartened Iraqi Sunni Arabs, Syrians and Saudis, tore through Iraq. Their targets were often Shia gatherings or civilian concentrations mainly of Shias. As a result, over 700 Iraqi civilians died in that month, as well as 79 U.S. soldiers.
A large weapons cache in New Ubaydi is destroyed
During early and mid-May, the U.S. also launched Operation Matador, an assault by around 1,000 Marines in the ungoverned region of western Iraq. Its goal was the closing of suspected insurgent supply routes of volunteers and material from Syria, and with the fight they received their assumption proved correct. Fighters armed with flak jackets (unseen in the insurgency by this time) and sporting sophisticated tactics met the Marines, eventually inflicting 30 U.S. casualties by the operation's end, and suffering 125 casualties themselves.
The Marines succeeded, recapturing the whole region and even fighting insurgents all the way to the Syrian border, where they were forced to stop (Syrian residents living near the border heard the American bombs very clearly during the operation). The vast majority of these armed and trained insurgents quickly dispersed before the U.S. could bring the full force of its firepower on them, as it did in Fallujah.
Announcements and renewed fighting
On 14 August 2005 the Washington Post quoted one anonymous U.S. senior official expressing that "the United States no longer expects to see a model new democracy, a self-supporting oil industry or a society in which the majority of people are free from serious security or economic challenges... 'What we expected to achieve was never realistic given the timetable or what unfolded on the ground'".
On 22 September 2005, Prince Saud al-Faisal, the Saudi foreign minister, said he had warned the Bush administration that Iraq was hurtling toward disintegration, and that the election planned for December was unlikely to make any difference. U.S. officials immediately made statements rejecting this view.
Constitutional ratification and elections
The National Assembly elected in January had drafted a new constitution to be ratified in a national referendum on 15 October 2005. For ratification, the constitution required a majority of national vote, and could be blocked by a two thirds "no" vote in each of at least three of the 18 governorates. In the actual vote, 79% of the voters voted in favor, and there was a two thirds "no" vote in only two governorates, both predominantly Sunni. The new Constitution of Iraq was ratified and took effect. Sunni turnout was substantially heavier than for the January elections, but insufficient to block ratification.
Elections for a new Iraqi National Assembly were held under the new constitution on 15 December 2005. This election used a proportional system, with approximately 25% of the seats required to be filled by women. After the election, a coalition government was formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, with Jalal Talabani as president. ... More
People You Remember Lt Jarrell, Capt Knutson, 1stSgt Sanchez, Sgt Mock, Sgt Chan, Sgt Piazza, Sgt Lowery, Cpl Jensen, CpLt Jarrell, Capt Knutson, 1stSgt Sanchez, Sgt Mock, Sgt Chan, Sgt Piazza, Sgt Lowery, Cpl Jensen, Cpl Harkness, Pvt Calipini (RIP), Sgt Hannaway, LCpl O'Brien, all my squad and platoon brothers in F 2/9.... More
Memories the basement of the palace. the gherkas from nepal....the endless guard watches. the gator 6 wheelthe basement of the palace. the gherkas from nepal....the endless guard watches. the gator 6 wheelers. the searing heat...the other services being facinated by us. the brotherhood....me and my brother Sgt Mock reminding each other that DFAS was on the clock with our SSN's on their computer entering all the the tax-free pay.....Pvt Calipini getting killed......RIP little man.....pounding the pavement on patrol and guard in downtown Baghdad every day......... More
Best Moment
Being reenlisted back in the Corps and going to work at the RS HQ in my hometown. Seeing Capt Studley (RS Columbia XO) who I knew as LCpl Studley 14 years earlier, and was on recruiters assistance with in Columbia after Desert Shield/Storm. Getting orders to 2/9 at Camp Lejeune, NC and getting back to the FMF.
Worst Moment
Waiting for three months for orders back to FMF.
Chain of Command
Capt Studley, GySgt Gant, SSgt Stewart
Other Memories
Working in RS S-4 tracking Gov. vehicle oil changes/maintenance for the entire RS. Feeling good being back in the Corps after 8 years. Pumping iron with Capt Studley and getting ready for the FMF, PT wise.
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Best Moment
Coming back into the Corps as a Sgt/0311 after being out for 8 years. Finishing my BA in Sociology Dec. 1996 from South Carolina State University. Too old for OCS but still young enough to be an NCO.
Worst Moment
Getting out of the Marine Corps because I had to. Got full custody of my 10 year old son and was a single parent at the time at Quantico, so going back to the FMF/Infantry wasn't the right choice for me at the time.
Chain of Command
Me, myself and I....
Other Memories
Swearing back into the Corps with my state trooper uniform on and finishing my shift, resigning the next day and checking into the RS HQ the next day after that. I was the mission maker for the 6th MCD for the month of March 2004. That son is now a Sgt in the Corps at Miramar and just reenlisted. He's a Marine Corps recruiter in Downey, CA.
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Best Moment
serving with Sgt Nielsen. my true brother as a Marine and friend. Thursday afternoon full-court basketball, 5 on 5, with the Marines in the shop. All out competition and great PT.....
Worst Moment
breaking my pinkie toe on the Marine Corps Marathon but finishing. running the Marine Corps Marathon in '94 and '95 with the Marines from my shop. realizing that i needed to get out after getting custody of my son and knowing i was going to be a single parent and didn't want to do that in the Corps
Chain of Command
LtCol Arnot, GySgt Walters, SSgt Cox
Other Memories
Snow football in front of the "Major Dad" bldg. thursday basketball PT. great group of Marines who truly gelled together. arguing sports, especially Yankees/Twins with Sgt Nielsen.
Chain of Command
GYSGT STEWARD, GYSGT PLASTER, GYSGT MCCLEAN
Other Memories
GYSGT MCCLEAN BLASTING US ALL OF THE TIME. TRYING TO CONVINCE GYSGT MCCLEAN THAT A TEST QUESTION WAS NOT WORDED RIGHT AND GETTING BLASTED.
Worst Moment
MCCRES 25 milers on the ridgelines. Constantly having to leave the unit to go to MEF HQ because of my secondary Signals MOS.
Other Memories
Being asked by a Marine "how are you doing?" on a 25 mile hump during a 10 minute break and not turning around to see who it was asking the question...i answered, "I'm fucking hurting!"...he replied, "I'm fucking hurting too, son"...i turned around and it was LtGen Johnston, the I MEF CG who was out with us on the little stroll along the Horno ridgeline....
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments Awarded for perfomance during Operation Restore Hope/Somalia while working for I MEF G-2 Dec. '92 to Mar '93 as a Cpl. 2nd award given in '07 as end of tour award for performance in 2/9 from '04 to '... Awarded for perfomance during Operation Restore Hope/Somalia while working for I MEF G-2 Dec. '92 to Mar '93 as a Cpl. 2nd award given in '07 as end of tour award for performance in 2/9 from '04 to '06 as a Sgt. 3rd award given in '09 as end of tour award for performance as a DI, SDI and Series GySgt 3rd Recruit Training Bn. I, Q and M Company's MCRD Parris Island, SC from '06 to '09 as a SSgt. MoreHide
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Comments
2nd award 1996, 3rd award 2007, 4th award 2010, 5th award 2013.
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Comments
Given to I MEF for Operation Restore Hope/Somalia
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Best Moment
Operation Desert Shield/Storm 2 months after checking in. Saw the professionals take care of me and train my boot ass.
Worst Moment
Separating my shoulder offloading wallockers off of a 5 ton and not being able to lift weights for 8 weeks.
Chain of Command
Maj Hickey, Capt Dolley, GySgt Moser, SSgt Hannel
Other Memories
Barracks life and watching college and pro sports in the barracks with about 12 Marines in one room drinking beer and raising hell. MCCRES humps....25 milers that killed us! Desert Shield/Storm and Somalia with the same crew....Got the damn job done with morale sky high....
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Description
1st award given to all Marines of I MEF for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. 2nd award given to 1st MarDiv units in Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom, 2010-2011.
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description
Given to all Marines of I MEF for Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. 2nd award given to 2/9 in '05 for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Comments
1st award during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, 2nd award for Operation Iraqi Freedom
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Comments
Given to I MEF for Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Ceasefire. Ribbon with star was Desert Shield, 2nd star was Desert Storm and 3rd star was Ceasefire.
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Description
1st award for Desert Shield/Storm, 2nd award from Operation Iraqi Freedom 2005, 3rd award for Operation Iraqi Freedom 2006, 4th award for Operation Enduring Freedom 2010-2011.
Criteria Service must have been performed in support of Operation Desert Storm and the liberation of Kuwait, between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991. Eligible areas include: The Persian Gulf, The Red Sea, ... Service must have been performed in support of Operation Desert Storm and the liberation of Kuwait, between 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991. Eligible areas include: The Persian Gulf, The Red Sea, That portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees east longitude, The Gulf of Aden or The total areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates In addition, those personnel must have: Been attached to or regularly serving for one or more days with an organization participating in ground and/or shore operations; Been attached to or regularly serving for one or more days aboard a naval vessel directly supporting military operations; Actually participated as a crew member in one or more aerial flights supporting military operations in the areas designated above; or, Served on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days during the qualifying period. Note: That time limitation may be waived for personnel who actually participated in combat operations. MoreHide
Description Awarded to I MEF for Operations Desert Shield/Storm by Saudi Arabia. 14 karat gold medal that we had to line up, sign for and watch the CO take out of a safe one by one and hand to us. I have the or... Awarded to I MEF for Operations Desert Shield/Storm by Saudi Arabia. 14 karat gold medal that we had to line up, sign for and watch the CO take out of a safe one by one and hand to us. I have the original one locked away. MoreHide
Criteria Awarded to members of the Military Coalition who served in support of Operation Desert Shield or Desert Storm in one or more of the following areas between 2 August 1990 and 31 August 1993: Persian Gu... Awarded to members of the Military Coalition who served in support of Operation Desert Shield or Desert Storm in one or more of the following areas between 2 August 1990 and 31 August 1993: Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees east longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. MoreHide
Description
Awarded to I MEF for Operations Desert Shield/Storm by Kuwait.
Description On January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invOn January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invaded and annexed months earlier. For weeks, a U.S.-led coalition of two dozen nations had positioned more than 900,000 troops in the region, most stationed on the Saudi-Iraq border. A U.N.-declared deadline for withdrawal passed on January 15, with no action from Iraq, so coalition forces began a five-week bombardment of Iraqi command and control targets from air and sea. Despite widespread fears that Iraqi President Saddam Hussein might order the use of chemical weapons, a ground invasion followed in February. Coalition forces swiftly drove Iraq from Kuwait, advancing into Iraq, and reaching a cease-fire within 100 hours—controversially leaving Saddam Hussein in power. While coalition casualties were in the hundreds, Iraqi losses numbered in the tens of thousands.... More
People You Remember Cpl Nolan, GySgt Moser, SSgt Hannel, MSgt Veasey, LCpl Mockapetris, GySgt Menchaca, Col Lucy, LtCol Cpl Nolan, GySgt Moser, SSgt Hannel, MSgt Veasey, LCpl Mockapetris, GySgt Menchaca, Col Lucy, LtCol Cisere, LtCol Giglia, Col Brock, LtGen Boomer, Maj Richer, MGySgt Pritchard, Cpl Navarro.... More
Memories Hottest and coldest I've ever been in my life in the desert of Saudi Arabia. The burning petroleum,Hottest and coldest I've ever been in my life in the desert of Saudi Arabia. The burning petroleum, and the ground shaking from the incoming and the outgoing B-52's. Burning shitters as a PFC, filling sandbags and endless night patrols with the desert wind cutting through you....then the daytime searing heat blazing you. Guarding tons of Iraqi EPW's.......having an Iraqi Col/EPW throw dehydrated peaches all over my chest after i showed him how to add water to them and LtCol Giglia came in the tent after he heard me losing my mind on the guy and he grabbed my M-16, racked a round in it, handed it back to me and told me that if he acted up again to take my rifle and ...........i'll leave it at that......LtCol Cisere talking to be at my bunker several times about when he was a 1stLt platoon commander with 2/9 during the Mayaguez Incident and the evacuation of Saigon.......... More
Description On January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invOn January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm—a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invaded and annexed months earlier. For weeks, a U.S.-led coalition of two dozen nations had positioned more than 900,000 troops in the region, most stationed on the Saudi-Iraq border. A U.N.-declared deadline for withdrawal passed on January 15, with no action from Iraq, so coalition forces began a five-week bombardment of Iraqi command and control targets from air and sea. Despite widespread fears that Iraqi President Saddam Hussein might order the use of chemical weapons, a ground invasion followed in February. Coalition forces swiftly drove Iraq from Kuwait, advancing into Iraq, and reaching a cease-fire within 100 hours—controversially leaving Saddam Hussein in power. While coalition casualties were in the hundreds, Iraqi losses numbered in the tens of thousands.... More
People You Remember
SSgt Hannel, Maj Hickey, Capt Dolley, GySgt Moser, Cpl Kinard, Sgt Jones
Memories Stickiest humidity in the world. The children swarming us. The gutted out, destroyed embassy. The brStickiest humidity in the world. The children swarming us. The gutted out, destroyed embassy. The broken glass stuck in concrete used as barbed wire on the tops of the walls. The convoys through the crowded streets and the skinned cats for sale in the market (food). LtGen Johnston (I MEF CG) being out and about, always talking to and checking on us around the embassy compound. Great man and Marine Corps leader. BS'ing with the Weapons Company boys in the towers in the middle of the night, trading MRE's and Copenhagen sent from the States. The Somali woman who slapped her son to the ground after he took M and M's from me and ate them.....i poured them in his hand while on patrol one day, she saw him eat them and she slapped him to the ground like he was a domino. I'll never forget that or the look of hate in her eyes...i'll never forget that kid crying........ More
Best Moment
Being a young Marine with some freedom
Worst Moment
getting blasted by SSgt Estes for being late
Chain of Command
Capt Cubillo, SSgt Estes
Other Memories
Partying at Eglin AFB and renting rooms for parties. Taking pride in being so much more squared away than the USAF, Navy and Army down there. USAF MSgt blasting her female airmen in front of Marines for not dating USAF guys and only dealing with us Marines.....as it should be.......
Best Moment
SGT BROWN ALL DAY EVERY DAY. THE BEST EXAMPLE OF A HAT WHO WAS A MACHINE THAT I'VE EVER SEEN. I PATTERNED MYSELF AS A GREEN BELT HAT AFTER HIM.
Worst Moment
GETTING CAUGHT TALKING ABOUT NAVY CORPSMAN IN THE HEAD BY SGT CHANDLER. GOT PUT ON THE "DEATH SQUAD" AND GOT SLAYED ALMOST EVERY DAY DURING THIRD PHASE FOR THAT.
Instructors
SDI SSGT CROSS HEAVY SGT BROWN 3RD HAT SGT CHANDLER
Other Memories
SGT BROWN NON STOP EVERY DAY....AWESOME DI SGT CHANDLER BEING A PT STUD AND SLAYING OUR ASSES ON THE QUARTERDECK SSGT CROSS BEING PROUD OF US
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Description
The Combined Arms Exercise (CAX) program at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Twenty-nine Palms, California, is the Marine Corps' most advanced live-fire unit-level combined arms tr
The Combined Arms Exercise (CAX) program at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC), Twenty-nine Palms, California, is the Marine Corps' most advanced live-fire unit-level combined arms training program for ground and air fire support with maneuver at the tactical level. The Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command at Twentynine Palms is the premier live-fire base in the Marine Corps. Each year roughly one-third of the Fleet Marine Force and Marine Reserve units -- some 50,000 Marines in all -- participate in the base's training exercise program. It draws military personnel from all over the world for Combined Arms Exercises. A CAX involves several hundred Marines playing a war game against a fictitious enemy in which ground troops, armor, artillery, and aircraft engage enemy movements simultaneously.
The Marine Corps' Combined Arms Exercise (CAX) Training Program, developed to enable commanders and Marines to practice combat essentials skills, began in 1975 and allows for both brigade and battalion sized live-fire and maneuver exercises. The operating procedures permit Marines training at the Combat Center to maneuver both on foot and mounted on vehicles through live-ordnance impact areas. It further permits most air and ground weapons commonly found in a Marine Air Ground Task Force to be employed closely, in accordance with current doctrine in a combined arms setting.
The procedures taught at CAX (Combined Arms Exercise) are applicable across all terrain, not just desert warfare. Similar training is not possible aboard other bases. There are too many constraints," Taylor said, adding that "internal friction" such as broken equipment and loss of communications adds to the realism of CAX training. Marines can't effectively train for this set of target skills with MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) gear or force-on-force exercises. With new technology, services have become more inclined to depend heavily on non-live-fire target training. Combined arms skills are perishable and demand frequent sustainment.... More
People You Remember
All Marines of I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA
Memories Training with my brothers from I MEF feeling like something was brewing....MCCRES 25 mile humps. BeiTraining with my brothers from I MEF feeling like something was brewing....MCCRES 25 mile humps. Being a boot and realizing that all of this is for real, just like my DI's screamed about. Operation Desert Shield/Storm....... More
All the Hotel Co. Hats, Golf Co. Hats, and the Marines of 2d RTBN HQ.
Coming back for my second tour and realizing that I'd made the right decision immediately when I got around the atmosphere and met the Company Staff. Being told by 1stSgt Muller, the outgoing 1stSgt, that I'm going to be acting 1stSgt for a cycle until they get a 1stSgt in. SgtMaj Whitcomb and LtCol Erickson checking in and making it fun to be here.....working with the Hotel Co. staff everyday and the Hats......enjoying working at Bn S-3 making the Bn run smoothly. Finishing up working with the Golf Co. Hats who are the most cohesive group of Marines I've worked with on this Depot.
Realizing how different MCRD SD is from MCRD PI and learning what to accept and what to change without harming SD's esprit de corps.
LtCol Erickson - Bn Commander Maj Solis - Bn XO SgtMaj Whitcomb - Bn SgtMaj Capt Franco - Hotel Co. CO Capt Standafer - Hotel Co. CO Capt Elizondo - Series Commander Capt McLean - Series Commander Capt Rosenblatt - Series Commander Capt Edelen - Series Commander Capt Franco - Bn Ops O Capt Rosenblatt - Bn Ops O Capt Balawender - Golf Co. CO Capt Elizondo - Golf Co. XO Capt Laurita - Golf Co. Series Cmdr Capt Knecht - Golf Co. Series Cmdr 1stSgt Amancio - Golf Co. 1stSgt
Bird dogging with Chief's GySgt Blua and SSgt Hall so I can see how they do business and learn MCRD SD and 2d Bn Hotel Co.'s way of doing business. Being acting 1stSgt for Hotel Co. Doing 5 cycles in Hotel, 2 as 1stSgt, 3 as a CDI, then going to Bn to be the HQ Co. 1stSgt and working with Capt Franco, our old Hotel CO who is now Bn S-3 officer....doing one last cycle as a CDI in Golf Company working with my buddy SSgt Gonzalez, the most mature SSgt I've ever worked with. Retiring out of MCRD SD after speding 2 years making Marines again.