September 9, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 Issue 36 ‘America’s ...

‘America’s Battalion’ fires awayCCPPLL.. WWIILLLLIIAAMM JJ.. JJAACCKKSSOONNCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Communication is key, but it’s evenharder when the sounds of suppress-ing machinegun fire, M-16’s andshoulder-launched multipurposeassault weapons echo throughout the

Combat Center’s Range 410AWednesday.

Marines with Company I, 3rdBattalion, 3rd Marine Regiment,employed a variety of weapons sys-tems during their platoon-sizeattack. Company I cleared trenches,conducted tactical sight exploita-

tions and suppressed an onslaughtof enemy advances at Range 410A,all for their upcoming company-sized training event.

“We’re doing our platoon maneu-vers in preparation for our mainevent,” said 1stSgt Robert Rice, theCo. I first sergeant. “It’s just thebasic fundamentals as a platoon.We’re meeting our objective of pre-paredness for the company live-fireand maneuver.”

Lance Cpl. Michael Barboza, an assaultsquad leader with Co. I, 3/3, said it’s notjust about the weapons systems.

“Personally,” said the TraverseCity, Mich., native, “its just trainingmy new guys, getting them com-fortable shooting the SMAW andgetting them comfortable withmoving while there is [suppressivefire]. I’m just trying to get my newguys up to speed.”

The machinegun chatter on top ofMachinegun Hill kept the enemy atbay while Marines in the trenchescleared the way.

“This helps coordinate our guns,”said Lance Cpl. Tyler Connor, a teamleader with Co. I, 3/3, while scanningthe area for a counter attack. “It’s alsogood training for the advancement of

September 9, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 Issue 36

Marine runs “A Mile in

Their Shoes”event, page B1

3/3 TOWs theline, page A3

CCPPLL.. WWIILLLLIIAAMM JJ.. JJAACCKKSSOONN

Marines with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, train with theShoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon during platoon sizedattacks on objectives at Range 410A Wednesday.

CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD..TTHHOORRBBUURRNNCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Yesterday marked the end ofyears of anticipation for theCombat Center Communityas the new Marine CorpsExchange’s doors opened forbusiness.

“I have been here since2008, and they were talkingabout it. I thought I wasn’tgoing to see it because I amleaving here soon but I got tobe here at the grand opening,”said Cpl. Marino Mora-Herrera, a motor transportoperator with HeadquartersCo., 7th Marine Regiment.“It’s awesome, they have a big-ger selection than the old oneand they have food, Starbucks,hot dogs and pizza.”

The wait was worth it asthe patrons entered theMarine Corps Exchange forthe first time and saw theopen floor concept showingoff the huge size and selec-tions available.

The new MCX’s largerfloor plan accomodatesexpanded men’s, women’sand children’s clothing andshoe departments, uniformsales and a food court.

Some features previouslyonly available at the HomeStore, like outdoor and toydepartents are also now mak-ing their permanent resi-dence at the MCX.

“We wanted to make it asmuch of a one-stop-shop-ping experience for theMarines as we could,” saidPatrick Rooney, the deputydirector of business opera-

tions at the MCX. “This is afresh vision of the baseexchanges and will help givethe Marines a reason to shopon base instead of driving toPalm Springs.”

Situated around the themain floor are other ameni-ties, including a StarbucksCoffee, Walters Pizzeria,Nathan’s Famous, Mark Pi’sExpress, the IntermissionCafé, a barbershop, GNCLive Well, and the newRecreation Information,Tickets and Tour office.

“When you think aboutour commandant’s priority ofkeeping faith with theMarines and their families,there is no finer example ofthat then this fine facility,”said Brig. Gen. George W.Smith Jr. “It is going to servehundreds of thousands ofMarines and their families fordecades to come.”

Medals awarded before ‘Cutting Edge’ returns to combatLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Third Battalion, 7th MarineRegiment, awarded one BronzeStar Medal with a Combat “V”and two Purple Heart MedalsSept. 2 at Liberty Field.

When given with a “V” for

valor, the Bronze Star is thefourth highest medal in the U.S.Armed Forces.

1st Lt. Joshua Waddell, theexecutive officer for CompanyI, 3/7, was recognized with thishonor for his actions in Sangin,Afghanistan, last year.

On Sept. 13, 2010, Waddell,then a platoon commander, and

his Marines were surroundedby more than 50 Taliban fight-ers and taking fire by almostevery direction. He employedhis platoon in an effectivedefensive position to repel theenemy’s 10-hour-long assault.His leadership was directlyresponsible to for the superbperformance of his platoon

and the efforts of the insur-gents kept at bay. Waddell thenexposed himself to enemy firein order to gain identification ofenemy targets. The platoon suf-fered no casualties, while andthe Taliban forces sufferedmore than 22 confirmed killedor wounded.

“It was the first major offen-sive we did since the [British]pulled out,” Waddell said. “Iwork with phenomenalMarines, and they carried usthrough it. I can’t take anycredit. They did everything.”

“The British Royal Marineswere watching from their [for-ward operating base] from a dis-tance, and apparently we had acheering section,” Waddell said.“It was their first time seeingU.S. Marines in action. We areproud to go back and fight withour brothers.”

His father, Mark Waddell, aformer Navy Seal, presented hisson with the Bronze Star.

“It was a huge honor [to getit from him]. Something I will

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZ

Col. Austin Renforth, the 7th Marine Regiment commanding officer, speaks to the Marines of3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, days before they leave on their deployment at Liberty FieldSept. 2, just after an awards ceremony.


1st Lt. Joshua Waddell, the executive officer forCompany I, 3/7, is presented his Bronze StarMedal by his father, Mark Waddell, a formerNavy Seal and enlisted commander.

MCX open for business

New exchange, one stop shoppingfor Marines and family members

PPFFCC.. AALLII AAZZIIMMII

Service members and families wait in line for the grandopening of the new Marine Corps Exchange.

Tanks, infantry team up, train up

See FIRES, A6

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNN

A simulated rocket propelled grenade cripples a tank with Company A, 1st Tank Battalion, during the clear stageof the Enhanced Mojave Viper training for 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion at range 220 Sept. 5.

See story and photo spread on pages A4 and A5

See MEDALS, A6

NNeeww MMCCXX hhoouurrss::Open 7 days a week6 a.m. to 10 p.m.Holidays:10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SShhooppss iinnssiiddee MMCCXX::Intermission Café

Nathan’s Famous

Walter’s Pizzaria

Mark Pi’s ExpressRecreation InformationTickets and Tours

GNC Live Well

Barber Shop

Starbucks Coffee

AA22 SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 99,, 22001111 OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt

AACCRROOSSSS1. Catches some rays5. Suffix with auto or

bureau9. Roman Empire

invaders14.“...or ___ me?”15.Bank takeback16.Come to terms17.Symbol of

stubbornness18.Wallet wad19.“Maria __” (40s hit)20. They’re tipped23.Crocket’s last stand24. Poetic pugilist25.Erie Canal mule28.Subway standee’s aid32.Strait of Messina

monster34.Start of MGM’s

motto37.British nobles39.Sashimi fare40.They’re tipped44.Kumquat’s shape45.Boyfriends46.___ - cone (Summer

treat)47.Part of CORE50.Gloomy, in poetry

52.Animal that bugles53.Profession, slangily55.___ toast59.They’re tipped64.Give a score to66.Cattle poker67.Nest eggs, for short68.Tosses the horse

hide69.Galileo’s home70.Mild-mannered71.Atlas feature72.Dummy Danny73.Mr. Potato Head

pieces

HOT TIP

Observation Post

The Observation Post is published by Hi-Desert Publishing, a private firm in no way con-nected with the Department of Defense or the United States Marine Corps, under exclu-sive written contract with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. This commercialenterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services.Contents of the Observation Post are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by,the United States government, the DoD, or the United States Marine Corps. The appear-ance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not con-stitute endorsement by the DoD or Hi-Desert Publishing of the services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use orpatronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital sta-tus, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the pur-chaser, user or patron. Editorial content is prepared by the Public Affairs Office,MCAGCC, Twentynine Palms, Calif. 92278. All photos, unless otherwise indicated areOfficial USMC Photos. Questions can be directed to the Public Affairs Office, locat-ed in building 1417, during normal working hours at 830-6213 or FAX 830-5474. TheObservation Post is made with 60 percent recycled paper.

DDOOWWNN1. Animated movie

feline2. “The __” (Tavern

order)3. Nabisco wafer4. Gets really ticked5. Moat critter, for

short6. Russo of “Get

Shorty”7. Givvons et al8. Puccini heroine9. Language that

gave us “banshee”10. Look like a wolf11. Bald12. Cackler13. Ross or Sargasso21. Observer22. Two of the racing

Unsers26. Green Mountain

Boys leader27. Will Roger’s prop29. Wet behind the

ears30. Fine horse31.Practiced,

as a trade33. Doorbell-

answer’s word 34. Be gaga over35. Hertz, to Avis36. Carnival stands38. Telephone button41. Biblical priest42. Be contrite43. Crammers’

worries48. Most fit49. “__ darlin’” (Jazz

standard)51. Speak from

memory54. Lighter brand56.Virginia’s ___

Caverns57.Former New York

mayor Abe58. Chuckleheads60. Thumb-twiddling61. Sahanan62.Civil Rights

activist Parks63.Make-or-break

time64. Touch-tone four65. Turn tail

CCRROOSSSSWWOORRDD AANNDD SSUUDDOOKKUU PPUUZZZZLLEESS CCOOUURRTTEESSYY OOFF ©© 22001111 HHOOMMEETTOOWWNN CCOONNTTEENNTT

[[PPuuzzzzllee ssoolluuttiioonnss oonn AA44]]

SSEEMMPPEERRTTOOOONNSS:: CCRREEAATTEEDD BBYY GGUUNNNNEERRYY SSGGTT.. CCHHAARRLLEESS WWOOLLFF,, UUSSMMCC//RREETT..

SUDOKU #2292

Eagle

Eyes

Immediately report any suspicious activity whichmay be a sign of terrorism, including:

1. Surveillance2. Suspicious questioning3. Tests of security4. Acquiring supplies5. Suspicious persons6. Trial runs7. Deploying assets

830-3937

Hot TopicsIINNTTRRAAMMUURRAALL

FFLLAAGG FFOOOOTTBBAALLLL

The Intramural FlagFootball League is startingup and will be held Sept. 20to Dec. 15 at Del ValleField. Must be active duty,family member or DoDemployee. For more infor-mation call MCCS Sportsat 830-4092.

TTEEXXAASS HHOOLLDD ‘‘EEMM

TTOOUURRNNAAMMEENNTT

On Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. theSingle Marine Programand Drug DemandReduction are teamingup to host a Texas Hold‘em Tournament in theTaco Bell lobby. Therewill be prizes given. Formore information or tosign up call the SMP at830-4767.

SSOOUUNNDDSS OOFF FFRREEEEDDOOMM

The fourth annualSounds of Freedomconcert will be held atLance Cpl. Torrey L.Gray Field on Sept. 24 at6 p.m. The eventincludes food vendorsand a concert with theCombat Center Band,Toy, and headliner,Uncle Kracker. Thisevent is open to allMCCS eligible patrons.

DDEESSEERRTT WWIINNDDSS GGOOLLFF

CCOOUURRSSEEEvery Wednesday foractive duty, the greensfees will be $10 all day.Every Thursday forDOD employees, thegreens fee will be $15all day. Come down, beactive and have fun. Formore information, call830-6132.

CCoommmmaannddiinngg GGeenneerraall - Brig. Gen. George W. Smith Jr.PPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss OOffffiicceerr - Capt. Nick MannweilerDDeeppuuttyy PPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss OOffffiicceerr - 2nd Lt. Sin Y. CarranoPPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss CChhiieeff - Gunnery Sgt. Leo A. SalinasPPrreessss CChhiieeff//EEddiittoorr - Sgt. Heather GoldenLLaayyoouutt,, DDeessiiggnn - Leslie Shaw

CCoorrrreessppoonnddeennttssCpl. William J. JacksonCpl. Andrew D. ThorburnLance Cpl. Sarah DietzLance Cpl. D. J. WuPfc. Ali AzimiDiane Durden

This Week in Combat Center History

Protect your smile during play CCOOLL.. JJEEFFFF CCHHAAFFFFIINNTRICARE DENTAL CARE BRANCH

If you or your child partici-pates in sports or otherrecreational activities, youknow the importance ofprotective gear. Wearing pro-tective gear is essential forsafe play and shielding fragilebody parts from severe dam-age and injuries.

One good way to protectyour teeth is by wearing anathletic mouth guard duringany activity that could causeharm or injury to your mouth.The TRICARE DentalProgram covers enrollees forone custom fitted athleticmouth guard at a 50 percentcost-share, per consecutive12-month period.

Athletic mouth guardshelp to prevent broken andchipped teeth, cuts insidethe mouth and tongue, evennerve damage and toothloss possible during someactivities. Using an athleticmouth guard may alsoreduce the rate and severityof concussions, according

to the American DentalAssociation.

Athletic mouth guardsabsorb some of the shockexperienced from a blow tothe head, and help to distrib-ute it evenly.

According to the ADAan athlete is 60 times morelikely to suffer injury totheir teeth or mouth whennot wearing an athleticmouth guard. Even in non-contact sports like gymnas-tics and biking, athleticmouth guards are shown tohelp prevent injuries.

There are several types ofathletic mouth guards avail-able. Many stores sell pre-formed and “boil and bite”mouth guards that are notcovered by the TDP. Theseare generally less expensiveoptions than having yourdentist custom-fit a piece foryou, however they will mostlikely not fit as well and maybe uncomfortable to wear.

Your athletic mouthguard should fit comfort-ably, and not restrict yourbreathing or speech.

It should be easy to cleanand made of a resilient,tear-resistant material. Visityour TDP-participatingdentist and talk about thebest option for you andyour children.

Athletic mouth guards areeasy to care for and should betaken care of properly.

Make sure you clean yourmouth guard after each use,either by brushing with atoothbrush and toothpasteor by washing with cool,soapy water and rinsing withclean water.

You should regularly washyour mouth guard with soapand water and carry it in asturdy, well vented container.

Don’t leave the piece inthe sun because extreme heatcan affect the shape and fit ofyour mouthpiece.

Finally, take your mouthguard to each dentistappointment so that yourdentist can check for prop-er fit and damage or wear.

Your dentist can answerany questions you might haveabout use or care.

1st AW mobile column moves 260 miles in four daysAAUUTTHHOORR:: UUNNKKNNOOWWNN

The 11 1st AAA AW Battalion, under thecommand of Lt. Col. W.F. Lloyd,embarked Monday, Sept. 9th, on a four dayfield problem which took in most of 22

MCB, 29 Palms. This 33 problem wasunique in the fact that during their stay inthe field, 275 men of the battalion traveledover 260 miles by tracked vehicle.

The problem began Monday morningwith firing exercises. The battalion left thatmorning with an indirect shoot in AAA Iarea where the unit conducted field exercis-es in the area and journeyed through 44 X-Ray, Fox, and Easy Areas in order to reachthe Sunshine Mine in the Charlie area ofthe base. The column consisted of 16 55

M42 tanks and many other auxiliary trans-port vehicles such as jeeps, gasoline supplytrucks, chow trucks, and other supply carri-

ers needed for sustenance of the troops.While in the Sunshine Mine area the

men of the battalion were tested on mili-tary subjects, including infantry tactics andother fields unrelated to the to the artilleryfield. The tests were given to determinethe winner of the 66 BattalionCommander’s Trophy.

During their stay in the field, the troopsfired all small arms, including the 30 and50 caliber machine guns, anti-tankweapons, and the submachine gun. Themen of the battalion also got a taste of 77

ABC warfare in the tear gas chamber takenalong for training purposes.

1st AW will return to the main area onFriday. To date the spirit of the men hasremained high. The spirit of the organiza-tion was reflected in the skills and attitudesof the men of the battalion, during the fir-ing exercises and movement phases.

Reprinted from the Observation Post dated Sept. 12, 1957. Vol. 7, No. 35

1. 1st AAA AW Battalion or 1st Antiaircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Bn.2. Marine Corps Base, 29 Palms, is the name of the installation before it became the MarineCorps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms. The name changed in 1979.3. The “problem” was a phrase used to describe what we now call an “exercise” or an “operation.”4. Ray, Fox, Easy Areas and Sunshine Mine were training areas on the Combat Center in 1957.5. M42 Tanks were tanks used from 1952 until 1959, it was replaced with the HAWK missilesduring the Vietnam War. When the missile performed poorly, the M42A1 tank was developed andused in Vietnam. The system was retired in 1988.6. The Battalion Commander’s Trophy was most likely an incentive for a battalion wide compe-tition in order to keep morale high during the exercise.7. “ABC warfare” refers to atomic, biological, or chemical weapons.

1st LAAM Bn. to field for nine-day 1 FFEXAAUUTTHHOORR:: UUNNKKNNOOWWNN

The 22 1st LAAM Battalion - taking LaborDay seriously - literally moved into thefield Tueusday in execution of a nine-day,first-of-its-kind tactical training and fieldfiring exercise.Commanded by LtCol Bert Code, the 1stLAAM Missilemen are deploying, digging-in and camouflaging their weapons andequipment in their assigned mission ofdefending the vital airfield and area of NODANG GUD in the X-RAY area.According to Col Cook, 33 the problemmarks the first time a local missle battalion

has operated completely - administrativelyand logistically - in the field utilizingmount-out gear.Previous battalion exercises of the “Anthill”variety are designed to test mount-out capa-bilities while simulating movement frombase camp to embarkation.Going a step further for the first time, the1st LAAMS training exercise is simulatingproblems and conditions that are likely toconfront Marine Missilemen during move-ment from debarkation to the enemyobjective stage.On Sept. 9, the 1st LAAMS will concludetheir field exercise with a Hawk shoot.

Reprinted from the Observation Post dated Sept. 4, 1964. Vol. 8, No. 36

1. FFEX, or “final field exercise.”2. 1st LAAM Battalion or 1st Light Anti-Aircraft Missile Bn.3. The “problem” was a phrase used to describe what we now call and “exercise” or an “operation.”

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SSTTOORRYY AANNDD PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYYCCPPLL.. RREEEECCEE LLOODDDDEERR3RD BATTALION, 3RD MARINE REGIMENT

Cloaked by darkness in asilent wilderness, two teamsof anti-tank missilemenitched with anticipation toreign destruction from afar.

Time passed and eachMarine received his turn tofire. The surrounding worldevaporated as they climbedinto the tactical vehicle’s tur-ret. They mounted and pre-pared their deadly weapon,gripping it with purpose andsighting in through lensesof adrenaline.

Anti-tank missilemen andmachine gunners withWeapons Company, 3rdBattalion, 3rd MarineRegiment, practiced firingJavelin and Tube-launched,Optically-tracked, Wire-guided missiles at the BlackTop Range Training Areaat the Combat Center Aug.28 and 29.

The TOW gunner ranthrough pre-firing proce-dures and was cleared to fire.

“Fire in the hole, fire inthe hole, fire in the hole!” hescreamed.

There was a pop and thenwaiting – one-one thousand,two-one thousand. A fieryorange back blast eruptedfrom the rear of the missileand the silver flash screamedthrough the air toward its tar-get far across the desert.

The missile quickly foundthe target and created atumultuous blast of fire. Onlyseconds later, a thunderingboom rocked the mountainas the missile exploded. Thenext shooter stepped up,loaded a new missile andeagerly waited to fire.

“We shoot rifles andmachine guns, but the TOWmissiles are bigger and loud-er,” Lance Cpl. GalenMurphy-Fahlgren, an anti-tank missileman withWeapons Company, 3/3, said.“Shooting them is a rush.”

Murphy-Fahlgren and theother missilemen are part ofthe company’s CombinedAnti-Armor Teams 1 and 2– teams organized todestroy enemy tanks andarmored vehicles.

The CAAT Marines train toemploy two missiles in anti-armor warfare — the Javelinand TOW. The medium Javelinmissile tracks and neutralizes

static and moving targets up to2,500 meters away using a ther-mal optic system. The heavyTOW missile locks onto tar-gets up to 4,200 meters awaywith an infrared signature.

“Tanks can’t shoot past3,200 meters, so we can hitthem with a TOW missile akilometer before they canshoot us,” the 22-year-oldMurphy-Fahlgren, from

Canton, Mich., said. “Thisgives us a huge advantage.”

Their stage for the train-ing, the 35-day EnhancedMojave Viper training exer-cise, is preparing them for anupcoming fall deployment toAfghanistan in support ofOperation Enduring Freedom.

At EMV, the CAAT

OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 99,, 22001111 AA33

3/3 preps for war with TOW, Javelin missiles

Cpl. Aaron Pickett, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, fires a Javelin missile from the front of a humveeduring the Enhanced Mojave Viper training exercise at the Combat Center’s Black Top Range Training Area Aug. 29.

Lance Cpl. Cody Blessing, an anti-tank missileman with Weapons Company, 3/3,prepares to load a missile for firing during the EMV training exercise. Blessing, 18,is from Perryville, Mo.

Anti-tank missilemen with Weapons Company, 3/3, crouch next to a humvee as a fellow missileman fires a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked,Wire-guided missile during the EMV training exercise.

See TOW, A6


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SSTTOORRYY AANNDD PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYY CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNNCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Marines are trained to fight as a team,using everyone’s strengths and weakness-es to accomplish the mission. This goeson from the individual fire team level tobattalions of different job fields comingtogether for mission accomplishment.

The Marines and sailors of 1stLight Armored ReconnaissanceBattalion, along with support fromCompany A, 1st Tank Battalion, per-form platoon sized clearing exercisesin the “Clear, Hold, Build-1” trainingduring Enhanced Mojave Viper atRange 220 Monday.

“This is the first time, as a unit, wehave trained with tanks and we havelearned more in one morning, withpractical application, than a week in theclassrooms,” said 1st Lt. LoganDeffner, 1st platoon commander withCo. D, 1st LAR.

“This is a good opportunity for theyounger Marines because most of themhave never operated with another unitand don’t see the bigger picture [outsidewhat their individual jobs are,]” saidGunnery Sgt. Eliesel Rivera, the platoonsergeant for Co. A, 1st Tanks. “For theinfantry guys today, this lets them seewhat the tanks can do for them.”

In addition to having tanks availablefor support, the unit also had bombsniffing Labrador retrievers embeddedwith the units.

“We have sent the dog ahead of usand he found some IEDs so wemaneuvered around them and contin-ued with the mission,” said Lance Cpl.Richard Morton, a dog handler withCo. D, 1st LAR.

The dog had helped the unit avoidmultiple IEDs and proved the old saying‘smooth is slow and slow is smooth’helps keep Marines alive, he added.

Once the Marines made it into thebuildings, Deffner stressed that everyMarine keep their eyes open for anypotential threats of danger.

“Everyone is an information gather-er,” Deffner said. “If you see some-thing that could be important, don’tkeep it to yourself, start passing it upyour chain of command.”

A simulatedimprovisedexplosive deviceis set off as aMarine with 1stLAR Battalionperforms theclear stage of theEMV at Range220 Sept. 5.

CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNN

An M1A1 Abrams tank with Company A, 1st Tank Battalion, provides support for 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Marines asthe infantry Marines run toward the next objective during the clear stage of the Enhanced Mojave Viper training at Range 220 Sept. 5.

TANKS, INFANTRY

ON POINT


PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYY CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNN

Marines with 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion breach an enemy controlled building using green smokefor added concealment during the clear stage of the Enhanced Mojave Viper training at Range 220 Sept. 5.

Marines with 1st LAR Battalion bound to the enemyposition and move a simulated casualty to a secure loca-tion during the clear stage of the EMV training at Range220 Sept. 5.

Marines with1st LARBattalionmove a simu-lated casualtyto a securelocation dur-ing the clearstage of theEMV trainingat Range 220Sept. 5.


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the riflemen.”“Like every unit there’s

going to be parts where weneed to work on but wemanage,” added Lance Cpl.Brandon Lee, a machinegunner with Co. I, 3/3 and anative of Cottonwood, Ariz.

Company I hit the rangewith four platoons. The pla-toons continued to work ontheir communication throughthe exercise building on theirefforts for CHB-2.

“The whole objective isgo up with numerous typesof fires to the final objective,said Rice. “It’s the finalpreparation for Saturday’sevolution. They’re getting thebasic fundamentals [of work-ing as a platoon.]”

Marines are practicing thesame ranges as the other linecompanies, polishing infantrytactics, shooting machineguns and operating out oftactical vehicles.

In Afghanistan’s Helmandprovince this fall, they’ll main-ly conduct dismounted securi-ty patrols. They’ll eagerly awaitthe opportunity to employ the

missiles – like when an enemyfighter is spotted planting animprovised explosive device,or when a passageway into acompound needs to becleared, Sgt. Jose Portillo, ananti-tank missileman withWeapons Company, 3/3, said.

When they aren’t patrollingor firing missiles, they’llobserve the enemy using thetwo systems’ thermal andinfrared optic systems.

“In a seven-monthdeployment, these Marinesmight only have one or twochances to fire the missiles,”1st Lt. Douglas Kansier,CAAT-2’s platoon com-mander, said.

“The job-specific trainingthey’re doing now may beused for only 30 seconds ondeployment, but they’re prac-ticing until it’s automatic,”Kansier, 25, from Lincoln,

Neb., said.The opportunity to fire

the missiles is rare, so EMV ishelping pairs the missile-mens’ knowledge of the sys-tem with personal confi-dence, Portillo, 25, fromLawrenceville, Ga., said.

“If they can go into thedeployment knowing theycan hit the target, they’ll hit itwhen the opportunity arisesin country,” Portillo said.

FIRES, from A1


Lance Cpl. Brandon Lee [front] a machine gunner with Company I, 3rd Battalion,3rd Marine Regiment, lays down suppressive fire with his M240G while LanceCpl. Tyler Connor, a team leader with Co. I, 3/3, directs the machine gun burstsduring a platoon size attack at the Combat Center’s Range 410A Wednesday.


Marines with Co. I, 3/3, engage an enemy target after securing atrench at the Combat Center’s Range 410A Wednesday.

TOW, from A3

CCPPLL.. RREEEECCEE LLOODDDDEERR

Anti-tank missilemen with Weapons Company, 3/3, watch as a fellow missileman fires a Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided missile from a Humvee during the Enhanced Mojave Viper training exercise at the CombatCenter’s Black Top Range Training Area Aug. 29.

never forget,” Waddellsaid.

The two Purple HeartMedals, were awarded to Cpl.Zane Kutch, wounded Aug.23, 2010, and 1st Lt. SchylerNewson wounded Aug. 18,2010, both in Afghanistan.

This ceremony tookplace mere days before “TheCutting Edge” Marines onceagain stepped foot in Sangin,Afghanistan. The Marines of3/7 were the first to take thecontrol of Sangin fromBritish forces last year, andare now returning to contin-ue their job during what theyrefer to as “Sangin II.”

“There’s a few things I

remember when I go over,”said Col. Austin Renforth,the 7th Marines commander,as he spoke to his Marines.“One, we as men are differ-ent, and we are especially dif-ferent because we came intothe Marine Corps. We havechosen a life with a sense ofpurpose. We always look forthose experiences that giveyou a sense of purpose. Youdon’t get it in garrison. Youget it in combat.

“Dedicate yourself toyour unit, mission andbrother,” Renforth said. “Wewould rather die than let ourbrother die. That’s who weare. I will see you guys backhere in seven months, andthe first beer is on me.”

MEDALS, from A1


[From left] 1st Lt. Joshua Waddell, who received aBronze Star Medal, 1st Lt. Schyler Newson and Cpl.Zane Kutch, who both received Purple Heart Medals.The three medals were presented at an awards cere-mony at Liberty Field Sept. 2.


Daylight dwindles offSouthern California's coast

Labor Day as the amphibiousassault ship USS Makin

Island and the embarked 11thMarine Expeditionary Unit

continue operations.

CCPPLL.. TTOOMMMMYY HHUUYYNNHH

[[AAbboovvee]] Marines release a communications balloon fromthe amphibious assault ship Makin Island off SouthernCalifornia's coast Sept. 4. The balloon is designed tocarry a radio relay up to 80,000 feet above Earth, extend-ing communications to an area 600 miles in diameter,regardless of terrain. The Marines serve with the 11thMarine Expeditionary Unit's command element.

[[BBeellooww]] Marines serving with the 11th MarineExpeditionary Unit’s Battalion Landing Team 3/1 debarkCH-46 Sea Knights at the Combat Center Sept. 4. TheMarines performed a live-fire, long-range helicopter raid. GGUUNNNNEERRYY SSGGTT.. SSCCOOTTTT DDUUNNNN

CCPPLL.. GGEENNEE AALLLLEENN AAIINNSSWWOORRTTHH IIIIII

DDIIAANNEE DDUURRDDEENNPUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST

It was weeks ago when Ben Dolnick,the mechanic with the Auto SkillsCenter, helped Lance Cpl. SarahDietz figure out what was wrongwith her car.

She seemed surprised that I sug-gested she take her car there whenshe mentioned she was havingmechanical problems. She didn’tknow what was wrong with the car,only that she was adding coolantmore often than she should havebeen. She also knew the puddle ofcoolant under her car every morningcouldn’t have been a good sign.

Dietz was going to take the car tothe dealer to get fixed. That could bevery expensive, not just the cost tomake the repairs, but if she didn’t knowwhat was wrong, it could have beeneasy for the mechanics at the dealer toinclude some unnecessary repairs.

“I thought it [the Auto SkillsCenter] was a place you went whenyou already knew how to work onyour car,” said Dietz.

A place to work on your vehicle,with tools and lifts available for patrons’use is just one of several services thecenter offers. Shop personnel will alsoassist would-be mechanics in determin-ing what’s wrong, what parts are need-ed, as well as provide instructions.

A couple of the mechanics I knewthat worked there, recently helped mewith a few repairs on my truck. I knewthey could help her also.

After looking at Dietz’s car, and lis-tening to her describe what was goingon, Dolnick knew exactly what theproblem was.

“There’s good news and bad news,”he said.

The bad news was that the waterpump needed to be replaced. And thegood news, Dolnick said that it was arepair she could easily do herself.

I laughed, out loud.

Dietz, although a smart, intelligentwoman, doesn’t have a mechanicalbone in her body. She doesn’t evenknow how to change the oil in her car,one of the most basic maintenanceitems any driver should be able to do.

“We can help her, teach her,” saidDolnick.

The first lesson came when heexplained what was wrong with thewater pump and why the pumpneeded to be replaced, not justrepaired. He was very patient withher questions.

The big question she had, the one Icould tell she wasn’t verbally asking,could she really do this herself?

“You can do this,” I said, reassur-ing her.

She ordered the part from NapaAuto Parts, inside the shop and sched-uled some time with Dolnick for later

September 9, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 B SECTION

49 Palms Oasis,a natural getaway, page B2

DDIIAANNEE DDUURRDDEENN

Capt. Jason Dequenne, the assistant logistics officer forThe Basic School, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Va.,runs several miles per day training for “A Mile In TheirShoes” event. Dequenne will be running 236 miles Oct.15–31, dedicating each mile to a fallen Marine.

CCOOUURRTTEESSYY PPHHOOTTOO


The original locationof Tun Tavern inPhilidelphia, Penn.,is the starting pointfor the 236 milelong event.

Dequenne’s 236 milelong journey endswith the completion ofthe Marine CorpsMarathon Oct. 31 inWashington, D.C.


Ben Dolnick, a mechanic with the Auto Skills Center, and Lance Cpl. SarahDietz, with Headquarters Battalion, discuss steps to change the water pump.

Marine takes on 236 miles for the fallen

Cooling off at theCombat Center

Nathan Bostick, 6 [below], and his sister ElianaBostick, 3 [top], cool off in the evening heat withtheir mother Ashley at the Combat Center's waterpark. The park is located at the corner of FifthStreet and Bourke.

PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYY PPFFCC.. AALLII AAZZIIMMII

DDIIAANNEE DDUURRDDEENN PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST

Most Marines can knock out a threemile run without much thought oreffort. Imagine extending that dis-tance to 15 miles, running from themain gate of the Combat Center toCopper Mountain College, inJoshua Tree, Calif.

Take that distance one step far-ther by running that distance everyday for two weeks then follow itup with a marathon on the 15thday. Unimaginable for most, butnot for Capt. Jason Dequenne, theassistant logistics officer for TheBasic School, Marine Corps BaseQuantico, Va.

Dequenne, who will run a totalof 236 miles over a two week peri-od, wanted to do something thatwould help him share the stories offallen Marines as well as commem-orate the Marine Corps birthday.

“I always read stories aboutunits running the number of milesto correspond with the birthday,”said Dequenne. “It was always arelay of some sort, with Marineseach running a mile or two. I won-dered if single runner ever did it.Through my sadomasochisticdesire to punish myself throughrunning, I thought I would like todo that sometime.”

The carefully selected route willbegin Oct. 15 at the original site of

Tun Tavern in Philidelphia, thebirthplace of the Marine Corps.On the final day, Oct. 31,Dequenne will join 30,000 runnersfor the Marine Corps Marathon,ending his 236 mile journey at theMarine Corps War Memorial inArlington Cemetery.

The call to action came whenDequenne realized several Marineshe used to work with died in action.The normal news stories ofMarines dying don’t tell the wholestory of the Marine, he said.

“They face danger every singleday and when they pass and youread ‘died in combat operations,

See RUN, B4

Help at the hobby shop


Lance Cpl. Sarah Dietz, withHeadquarters Battalion, strains toloosen a bolt while repairing her car.See AUTO, B4

■ Auto Skills Center provides auto maintenance instruction

BB22 SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 99,, 22001111 OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt

Liber t y Call

PPaappppyy aanndd HHaarrrriieett’’ss WWeeeekkeenndd LLiinnee--UUpp::

TThhee AAllkkaallii FFllaattssThe California country band performsWhen: 7:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 9TThhee BBiinnggoo DDrreeaamm BBaannddAmerican folk with a country twangWhen: 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 10Where: 53688 Pioneertown Road, PioneertownFor more information, call 365-5956 or visit http://www.pappyandharriets.com.

NNuunnsseennssee,, AA--MMeenn!!The latest production of the Nunsense series has a hilarioustwist; all the nuns are played by men.When: 7 p.m. on both Friday and SaturdayWhere: Theatre 29, 73637 Sullivan Road, Twentynine PalmsFor more information call 361-4151or visithttp://www.theatre29.com

BBhhaakkttii FFeessiittvvaallA celebration of Indian culture with live performancesWhen: An all day event, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Sept. 9-11Where: The Joshua Tree Retreat Center59700 Twentynine Palms Highway at Yucca Mesa in Yucca ValleyFor more information call 365-8371.

Local Events

EExxccuurrssiioonnss EEnnlliisstteedd CClluubbFriday: Social Hour with food, 5 to 7 p.m. followed byDJ Gjettblaque, 8 to 11 p.m., Ladies NIghtSaturday: Request Night, DJ Gjettblaque 8 to 11 p.m.Sunday Football, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.Monday NIght Football, 4 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.Thursday: Social Hour, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

BBllooooddssttrriippeess NNCCOO CClluubbFridays: Social Hour with food, 5 to 7 p.m.Monday: Monday Night Football, 4 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.Wednesday: Free gourmet bar food, 5 to 7 p.m.Thursday: Social Hour, 7 to 9 p.m.

HHaasshhmmaarrkkss 2299 SSNNCCOO CClluubbFridays: Dinner, full menu, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Social Hour, 5:30to 7:30 p.m., DJ 8 to 11 p.m.Monday: Steak night and full dinner menu 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.Monday-Friday: All-Hands lunch, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.Tuesday: Social Hour, 5 to 7 p.m.Thursday: Social Hour, 5 to 7 p.m.

CCoommbbaatt CCeenntteerr OOffffiicceerrss’’ CClluubbMonday-Friday: All-hands lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.Monday: Steak night, 5 to 7:30 p.m.Thursday: Taco Night, 5 to 7 p.m.

For complete calendars visit http://www.mccs29palms.com.

Combat Center Clubs

Sunset CinemaFFrriiddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 99No early evening movies due to MCX openingMidnight – Cowboys and Aliens, Rated PG-13SSaattuurrddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 1100No early evening movies due to MCX opening9 p.m. – FFrreeee SSnneeaakk PPrreevviieeww ooff Killer Elite, Rated RMidnight – Crazy, Stupid Love, Rated PG-13SSuunnddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 11112 p.m. –Winnie the Pooh, Rated G6 p.m. – Rise of the Planet of the Apes, PG-139 p.m. – The Change Up, Rated RMMoonnddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 1122 LLaabboorr DDaayy sscchheedduullee7 p.m. – Smurfs, PGTTuueessddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 11337 p.m. – Friends with Benefits, Rated RWWeeddnneessddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 11447 p.m. – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2,Rated PG-13TThhuurrssddaayy,, SSeepptt.. 11557 p.m. – Winnie the Pooh, Rated G

Lower DesertDDoonn RRiicckklleessThe famous comedian performs his stand upWhen: 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 15Where: Agua Caliente32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho MirageFor more information call 888-999-1995 or visit http://hotwatercasino.com.

KKeennnnyy GGWill perform his mellow sax musicWhen: 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15Where: Morongo Casino Resort and Spa49500 Seminole Drive, CabazonFor more information call 800-252-4499 or visithttp://www.morongocasinoresort.com.

BBiillllyy IIddoollThe Grammy winner performs his 80’s punk rock hitsWhen: 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, IndioFor more information call 800-827-2946 or visithttp://www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

CChhiiccaaggooThe rock legends perform their hitsWhen: 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 21Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, IndioFor more information call 800-827-2946 or visithttp://www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

NNEEIILL PPOONNDDAMERICAN PROFILE

“Redemption Road”Starring Michael ClarkDuncan and Morgan SimpsonRated PG-13

In Hollywood-speak, a “roadmovie” is one in which theplot builds around a journeyor some sort. The format is acommon thread that unitesotherwise unrelated filmssuch as “Smokey and theBandit,” “Pee-Wee’s BigAdventure,” “ApocalypseNow” and even “TheWizard of Oz,” whichunfolds along a road pavedwith yellow bricks.

So when the characters inthe new “RedemptionRoad” hit they highway,they’re following a long,winding trail of time-hon-ored movie tradition.

As in many road movies,its two sojourners are---atleast at first---unlikely travel-ing companions. JeffersonBailey (Morgan Simpson), afailed blues guitarist, is white,alcoholic and so unsure ofhimself he can’t get back onstage. Augy (Michael ClarkDuncan), who’s black, is aclean and sober mountain ofmuscle, confidence and self-control who loves countryline dancing, big women andspit-polishing his belovedpickup truck.

Circumstance puts themtogether on a cross-countrytrip.

There are, of course,bumps on the highway. Baileyis being pursued by a shadybusiness associate (LukePerry) intent to extract inblood the debt Bailey can’trepay in cash. He’s haunted

by the loss of his father, anitinerant blues musician killedyears ago by a drunken driv-er. And he’s got some emo-tional baggage with an oldgirlfriend (Kiele Sanchez),who’s moved on with her lifeafter Bailey left her behind.

As the title suggests,there’ll be hope and healingat the end of this road.

Director Mario VanPeebles sets story into somegorgeous Southernruralscapes (with Tennesseesubbing for both Texas andAlabama), and he handles themusic at its core as almost acharacter itself. Several scenestake place in blues clubs, oneof which is owned by thegenerous, wise Santa (TomSkerritt), Augy’s mentor.

There are several per-formances by real-life bluesmusicians. An old guitar fac-tors significantly (and emo-tionally) into the plot. Atone point, a hung-over andbattered Bailey stumbles

into a church service alivewith song.

“Redemption Road” is a“small” movie, filmed on amodest budget with no bigstars. It’s bit hokey, sappy andslow. But it’s got a big, warmsoul, a stirring tale to tell, anda powerful message aboutforgiveness and spiritual

renewal, all tapped into a richvein of authentic music that’smuch more than just a back-ground element.

As the lettering on the tail-gate of Augy’s pickup notes,“Love will set you free.” It’s acliché, but it’s a theme thiswell-crafted little road movietakes tunefully to heart.

Hope, healing wait at end of big-hearted musical road trip


Unlikely friends, Jefferson Bailey (Morgan Simpson), and Augy (Michael Clark Duncan),are thrown together through circumstance on a cross-country road trip. There are bumpsalong the highway, like a shady business associate of Bailey’s who is out for blood andsome drama with an ex-lover, as the pair bond and head toward a hope and healing.


The pair learn a powerful message about friendship and forgiveness, all played out within some of the South’s mostbeautiful ruralscapes, with Tennessee subbing for both Texas and Alabama.


Bailey is an alcoholic failed blues guitarist who can’t getup the nerve to get back on stage. Augy is a clean, sobermountain of confidence and loves country line dancing,big women and spit-polishing his pickup truck.

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

It’s been nearly eight monthssince I have stepped foot inJoshua Tree National Park,so when a co-worker askedme to go hiking with her anda few friends, I jumped on it.We woke up early, got somebreakfast at the CarrouselCafé in Twentynine Palms,then set out to 49 PalmsCanyon Oasis.

Getting there is the easi-est thing ever, travelingdown Highway 62 towardsYucca Valley, you turn lefton Canyon Road.

The hike to the oasis isthree miles round-tripthrough the canyon, a dis-tance Marines are extremelyfamiliar with due to ourphysical fitness test. Thehike wasn’t strenuous, butinstead relaxing and beauti-ful. It was raining themorning we left, as wereached the top of one ofthe hills, the sun was peek-ing through the cloudsmaking a rainbow.Moments like that are whenI see the true beauty of thedesert, instead of dry mis-erable heat and a bunch ofdead bushes.

On the hike, I spent somequality time with a bunch ofold-school Marines, allequipped with camel packsand some snacks. It was

great to spend time withthem and get to know thembetter, maybe even talk a lit-tle smack about their tortoisespeed. (As a young Marine Ihad to defend the newCorps a little bit).

Reaching the oasis a mileand a half in, we saw beauti-ful, tall palm trees with asmall river running throughthem. The oasis is blockedoff because it is environ-mentally sensitive, but thejourney was worth it. Therewere families sitting onrocks having a picnic witheach other and our grouptook a break on the rocksunderneath the trees.

The oasis has beenaround for hundreds ofyears and was used by theNative Americans in the areaat that time. It was used forobvious reasons, like freshwater and plants grown forfood. Also, desert animalslike bighorned sheep utilizedthe oasis for the same things.

There are a bunch of hik-ing trails through JoshuaTree National Park, all ittakes to find them is a call tothe ranger station and a map.Editor’s Note: “DesertDetours” is a series exploringopportunities for Marines andsailors from a firsthand perspec-tive. All material included there-in is the opinion of the writerand does not imply an endorse-ment by the U.S. Marine Corpsor the Department of Defense.

Desert Detours: 49 Palms Canyon hiking trailOOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 99,, 22001111 BB33

Welcome to “Desert Detours,” a series that follows ourcorrespondents around on their explorations of southernCalifornia. The “out-of-five” palm tree rating scale offers aglance at how worthwhile the writer considers a place tobe. Locales will be judged on their accessibility, atmos-phere, fun, cost and facilities. Keep an eye out every weekfor new shenanigans and hot tips on cool things to do.

[Left] To protect theecological balance ofthe environment, hikersare reminded to remainon the trail.

[Right] Hikers follow thewell-maintained trailfrom the parking lot atthe end of CanyonRoad in TwentyninePalms to the oasis at 49Palms Canyon.

PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYY DDIIAANNEE DDUURRDDEENN

This small grouping of palm trees is a welcome sight at the end of the nearly mile and a half hike to the 49 PalmsCanyon Oasis in Joshua Tree National Park.

The vibrant, green of the oasis is a stark contrast to the brown and tan colors of the desert. Hikers will find the oasisnestled in a small valley at the end of a mile and a half long trail.

BB44 SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 99,, 22001111 OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt

Athlete of the WeekNNaammee:: Ruben MolinaUUnniitt:: Advisor Training GroupHHoommeettoowwnn:: Leander, TexasRReeccooggnniittiioonn:: Placing first in theUltimate Warrior Competition forthe 30-year-old and youngerbracket at the West Gym andFitness Center Aug. 25.WWhhaatt mmaaddee yyoouu wwaanntt ttoo ppaarrttiicc--iippaattee iinn tthhee ccoommppeettiittiioonn??:: “I am a competi-tive person, and I love doing thiskind of stuff.”DDoo yyoouu hhaavvee aannyy aaddvviiccee ttoo aannyyaassppiirriinngg aatthhlleetteess??:: “Don’t let life win. Youcan do anything you want to do.”AAtthhlleettiicc hhoobbbbiieess:: Runningand lifting. PPHHOOTTOO BBYY LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZ

where ever,’” saidDequenne. “It doesn’t reallyencapsulate, it doesn’t reallytell people what it is theseMarines do that makesthem so heroic.”

By dedicating each milealong his route to a fallenMarine from Operations

Iraqi Freedom and EnduringFreedom, Dequenne said hehopes to change that.

“If I could run a fewmiles, get some people’sattention by doing that,and get an audience andtell their story, that’s whyI want to do it this year.”

Throughout the run,Dequenne will share the sto-

ries of the honor, courage,commitment, bravery andvalor demonstrated by theMarines each mile has beendedicated to.

If you know a fallenMarine and would like todedicate a mile in their mem-ory, contact Dequenne byemailing your request [email protected].

RUN, from B1

in the week.When we returned

Saturday morning, Dolnickhad step-by-step instructions,with diagrams, printed forher. Dietz quickly set up herwork station, got her toolsand read through the instruc-tions and proceeded toremove the parts.

It took us several hoursto get the car disassem-

bled enough to get to thewater pump. He remainedpatient as the eager stu-dent continued to askquestions.

Finally, it was time forthe shiny, new water pumpto slide into place.

“Ta da!”We all cheered. It was

easy to see the sense ofaccomplishment Dietzfelt by the ear-to-earsmile she wore.

Once the water pumpwas installed, she still hadto put the rest of the carback together. She paidclose attention during thedisassembly, which madereassembling the carmuch quicker.

If you need assistancewith a mechanical problemor just want to learn somebasic automobile mainte-nance, contact the AutoSkills Center at 830-7527.

AUTO, from B1

September 9, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 Issue 36 ‘America’s ...

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