Welcome Home Marines 2012

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Operation Eastern Storm: Marines push through Kajaki Sofla | 5

2nd MLG: Combat engineers paving way for Afghan pullout | Page 40

Marine Aviation: Key to major offensive in Afghanistan | Page 55

2012

2 | 2012 Welcome Home Special edition

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After a year in Afghanistan as the core of Re-gional Command Southwest, family members will hear stories of places like Sangin, Marjah, Combat Outposts Oullette and Delaram. You will also hear stories about our base of operations Camp Bastion/Leatherneck complex, built from open desert that is home to more than 25,000 coalition forces. It is where most of us spent our holidays from Easter to the Super Bowl. We shared hundreds of stories from “outside the wire,” stayed fit, grew spiritually and significantly improved our skills. Many of us lived with Afghan partners in places like Lashkar Gah or Camp Shorabak. Through that daily interaction, we watched a police force blossom and an Afghan army become a professional force.

Afghanistan has transformed right in front of our eyes. Many of us enjoyed meeting the kids on the streets in a market in Marjah or Nawa, where they desperately wanted to speak English with us and show off their new-found language skills. Give them pens and they were friends for life. We all in-stinctively know that the future of Afghanistan is in the children and education is their pathway to a bet-ter life and a better country.

We are leaving Afghanistan with a sense of pride and purpose knowing we have carved out that path-way and brought education to the fore. For example; only three years ago there were no formal schools in Helmand province. Today there are over 150 with more on the horizon. Teachers who left Helmand for either the capital city of Kabul or other countries effectively collapsed the educational infrastructure. Today, there are over 1,600 teachers in Helmand. We have talked to many of those who left. Some have returned as interpreters and linguists. They have told us of the pain and heartache that, only a few short years ago, they had to endure. We have changed much of that, and because of the changes, America again has etched a place in the hearts of many Afghans. It happened before back in the 60s and 70s when we brought economic and agricul-tural opportunities to this land. We’ve returned with renewed purpose, we’ve restored opportunity and II MEF (Fwd.) has been a part of that difference.

There have been those horrific days, when the medevac crews would work feverishly at Forward Operating Base Edinburgh, or FOB Payne to stabi-lize one of our service members or civilians injured by an improvised explosive device. Then there were the doctors and nurses who found themselves with mass casualty events involving Afghan women and children fighting for their lives, only to find out that some of the children were orphaned. The people involved, from the Marines and corpsmen who re-sponded to the casualty events, to the nurse comfort-ing the 3-year-old orphan, are special people who make up that remarkable group of individuals we have served with during this past year. We are com-ing home having seen some horrors of war, but also the compassion of people committed to the mission in Afghanistan.

The numbers of casualties have dropped dra-matically, and the Afghan people are sensing change and have a cautious optimism about their leaders. We have played a huge part in this progress. Beyond

just the security bubbles we have created with the Afghan National Security Forces around the popu-lation centers in Khaneshin or Garmsir and Now Zad, we have brought hope for commercial growth to the provinces in our region. We opened up high-ways like Route 611 to Kajaki, a road that has been closed for the past three years. It is open now; in fact “Helmand is open for business.”

Projects are beginning, in earnest, to restore ir-rigation by repairing the U.S.-built dam in Kajaki, as well as installing the third turbine that will push electricity more widely into the province. These are life-changing accomplishments that would not have happened without the people who served with II MEF (Fwd.) / RC (SW). Whether it was combat units clearing the districts of Sangin and Kajaki, or the engineers who built “Route Red” to Musa Qaleh, or the logistical convoys who braved the IED-laden “Western Cluster,” they brought commercial development to places I assure you the people of Helmand never dreamed was possible. They knew we were Americans and did it once before, but what we have done this time is simply incredible.

We are home now, for a while. There is no doubt that our skills will be needed somewhere else. How-ever, now is a very good time to count our blessings and enjoy the lives we live in America. We are grate-ful to our families who sacrifice along with us. Our way has been hard won by people very much like the ones serving today. We won’t forget our brothers who departed as fallen heroes, and we will stay con-nected to those who suffered wounds. We are home now and we owe it to our heroes and our wounded to never forget them. Our wounded have a lot of healing to achieve, but we will remain committed to seeing them through the process. We have been part of something that only a few experience. It has grown us all and I believe it makes us stronger and more passionate about life itself.

Semper Fidelis,

John A. ToolanMajor General, USMC

2012 Welcome Home Special edition | 3

RC (SW) / II MEF (FWD) COMMANDING GENERAL’S MESSAGE

INDEX4 Regional Command Southwest Year in

Review7 Marine trainers get firsthand look at

Afghan police progressMarine linguists’ passion for Afghan culture inspires plan for local youth

8 On patrol with New England’s own11 Task Force Belleau Wood: Radio Bat-

talion helps intercept insurgents12 Task Force Belleau Wood: Fortune fa-

vors the brave13 Evolution of war: A year in Helmand

with 2nd Marine Division (Forward)14 Female Engagement Team: Building

trust with women in Sangin15 Operation Eastern Storm: Marines

push through Kajaki Sofla16 Operation Eastern Storm: Commerce,

residents return to Kajaki Sofla Bazaar18 Operation Western Gambit: Clearing

insurgents in Now Zad20 Victory in Nawa: The final chapter21 Marines near completion of successful

deployment in Marjah District28 2nd Marine Logistics Group: Year in

Review33 2nd Marine Logistics Group: 7th Engi-

neer Support Battalion brings com-merce, growth

40 Combat Engineers: Tearing down patrol bases, paving way for Afghan pullout

42 7th Engineer Support Battalion: En-hancing security along Route 606

43 2nd Marine Logistics Group: Expand-ing logistics in Helmand Province

44 2nd Marine Logistics Group: Bringing aid, relief to Afghan locals

45 2nd Marine Logistics Group: Providing safe transportation home

46 A look back: A year of Marine aviation in southwest Afghanistan

48 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing: Finding a new purpose for old aircraft

51 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing: Ospreys con-tinue to serve military

52 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing: Joining forces for aerial interdictions

55 Marine aviation key to major offensive56 Shaping the battle in Afghanistan:

Marine general reflects on coalition air efforts

59-69 Welcome home

Maj. Gen. John Toolan and the rest of the II Marine Ex-peditionary Force (Forward) Marines and sailors return to Camp Lejeune and surround-ing bases after a yearlong deployment to Afghanistan. Toolan was the commanding general for Regional Com-mand (Southwest), a NATO command established in June 2010 to command Internation-al Security Assistance Force in two provinces, Helmand and Nimroz, covering over 40,000 square miles. RC(SW) is comprised of approximately 30,000 troops from 8 contrib-uting nations along with our Afghan partners.

Throughout the deploy-ment from March 2011 to March 2012, RC (SW) focused on maximizing the effect of the Afghan government in sup-port of the Afghan people, fo-cusing on population centers, commerce routes, and produc-tion centers; while providing security to enable governance and development throughout the provinces.

The Marines of II Marine Expeditionary Force (For-ward) developed an outstand-ing partnership with the Af-ghan National Army’s 215th Corps, headquartered at Camp Shorabak, attached to Camp Leatherneck. This partnership was key in the continued suc-cess throughout RC (SW).

From the moment the Ma-rines of II MEF stepped off the plane they hit the ground running. Continuing the good work that had previously been done by 2nd Marine Expedi-tionary Brigade and I MEF, routing the insurgency out of the Marjah district, a previous stronghold from the Taliban, and developing the Afghan National Security Forces that protect it were first on the list. The Marines then focused on battle space expansion and clearing the main district cen-ters of the insurgency at Musa Qal’eh, Sangin and Kajaki.

On June 22, President Obama announced the planned drawdown of 10,000 troops from Afghanistan by the end of the year – about 10 percent of the entire U.S. force in theater.

August was an extremely kinetic month due in large part to the funding the Taliban re-ceived from the poppy crop. U.S. and Afghan forces began working hand-in-hand to mini-mize the amount of poppy grown, in order to eliminate the Taliban’s ability to fight.

In October, the Marines pushed the insurgents out of Sangin and Kajaki during Op-eration Eastern Storm, which consisted of more than 2,000 Marines and personnel. The goal of this operation was to secure the area surrounding the Kajaki hydroelectric dam and clear Route 611, the main road between Sangin and Ka-jaki. With the route cleared and the area around the dam secure, installation of a third turbine could begin. The dam, built in 1953 by the U.S., pro-vides Helmand and Kandahar provinces with electricity.

Due to the overwhelming successes of these major of-fensives and the day-to-day op-erations of the Marines of II MEF, the insurgency no longer has a stronghold in Helmand and Nimroz provinces. The Taliban is less organized and this has allowed for the transi-tion of lead security to Afghan National Security Forces in many districts throughout RC (SW)’s area of operations.

Afghan National Secu-rity Forces Development

The Joint Sustainment Academy Southwest, located on Camp Leatherneck, is an in-stitution that trains all branches of Afghan National Security Forces. The academy works to meet battlefield require-ments with a training solution. As needs for new skill sets are identified in order to counter the insurgency, those needs are transferred into training solutions. These solutions are courses of study designed to teach the Afghan servicemem-bers how to operate proficiently in the battle space.

Throughout the II Marine Expeditionary Force deploy-ment, thousands of Afghan servicemembers have been trained in everything from literacy and administration, to small arms weapons in-structors and leaders on the

battlefield. The successes of the Joint Sustainment Acad-emy Southwest is proven daily throughout the battle space as Afghan security forces contin-ue to take the lead in counter-insurgency operations. Much of this success can be attrib-uted to the academy and the work of the Afghan National Security Forces development teams and mentors.

GovernanceMarines have built a trust-

ing relationship with the Hel-mand Provincial Governor Mohammed Gulab Mangal and have worked to extend governance to the rural dis-tricts of Helmand province, increasing the Government of the Islamic Republic of Af-ghanistan’s reach in aiding the local Afghans.

The development of district centers has served as a means of communication between the local populace and the district governors. The district centers provide a central place for the Afghan people to oper-ate and conduct daily business, an important step in the right direction of establishing a suc-cessful structured government.

SecurityThrough the training of Af-

ghan National Security Forces

and the work of the Marines and coalition forces in the battle space, security and free-dom of movement for local Afghans has increased tremen-dously. The security approach is based on two principles: protecting the Afghan people and partnering at all levels. Together they took the fight to the insurgents. Freedom from the threat of Taliban influence, economic development, effec-tive governance and improv-ing living standards will create opportunities for the people to prosper and render the insur-gency irrelevant.

TransitionThe capabilities of the Af-

ghan National Army and Po-lice are growing and the threat from the insurgents is being reduced. Every day there are encouraging signs of visible progress, particularly in dis-tricts where there has been a substantial insurgent presence for some time. The Afghan Na-tional Army and Police forces have planned, executed and led successful independent op-erations. As the Afghan forces continue to succeed, lead secu-rity responsibilities are handed over to them.

During the deployment, Marines with II MEF have

partnered with coalition troops to accomplish the mission and conduct counter-insurgency operations throughout the area of responsibility. British, Danish, Tongan, Afghan, and Bahraini support and coop-eration has helped the Marines tremendously in their effort to defeat the insurgency.

SummaryAt the start of 2012, the

Kajaki Sofla Bazaar suicide bombing clearly illustrated the will of the insurgent to strike back at innocent Afghan citi-zens. The war has not been won, but the foundation for success is set.

Continuous improvements with the interoperability be-tween the forces are still being made on and off the battlefield. In late January, U.S. and coali-tion noncommissioned officers gathered for a conference to gain a better understanding of the people they work side-by-side every day.

The Marines of II MEF have played a monumental role in the successes in South-western Afghanistan and their hard work and dedication will not be forgotten.

This past year in Helmand province came at a price… freedom is not free.

4 | 2012 Welcome Home SpeciAl eDiTioN

Regional Command SouthweSt

Photo by Cpl. Bryan NygaardMaj. Gen. John A. Toolan, the commanding general of Regional Command Southwest, walks with Lt. Col. Matthew J. Palma, the commander of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, on the way to a religious shura at the Garmsir district center, Helmand province, Dec. 28. The purpose of the shura was to engage with local religious leaders in the district of Garmsir and work with them toward peace and stability.

Year in Review


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Story by Cpl. Adam Leyendecker

During courses at the Joint Sustainment Academy Southwest, here, instruc-

tors train Afghan National Security Forces and track their progress until graduation.

Two Marine instructors at JSAS recently followed their pupils onto the battlefield to watch them utilize the skills they taught them at the academy in a real-world combat environment.

Sgt. Matthew P. Boyle and Cpl. Joshua Hillyard were sent forward from Camp Leatherneck for more than two months to patrol with some of the ANSF students who at one point attended their classes at the academy.

Boyle taught the Joint Noncom-missioned Officer course in April. The main points Boyle taught the students were patrolling, improvised explosive device awareness and weapons tactics.

Though many students grasped the techniques taught at the academy, said Boyle, he noted how rewarding it is, as an instructor, to see them using those same maneuvers and tactics in an actual combat situation.

Afghan Border Policemen who had completed advanced training at JSAS could be seen using the formations taught by the instructors during their

patrols in the far south of Helmand province, he added.

“I noticed the students who had attended JSAS because of their level of maturity,” said Boyle.

While out on patrols with the border police, the Marines’ mission was to ensure the Afghan Security Forces were retaining their knowledge and applying it correctly in the right circumstance.

The students, who had received JSAS training, seemed less likely to panic or worry when a situation arose and a decision needed to be made, observed Hillyard.

The ABP Hillyard observed in the field applied many of the training and safety techniques they had been taught, to include setting up and conducting their own live fire ranges, he said.

The Marines were so impressed by the JSAS graduates that they said they plan to send their own troops to the academy for follow on courses such as the Generator Course and the Combat Medic Course, said Hillyard.

While outside Camp Leatherneck, Boyle said he and his former students shared past memories and moments from the academy.

“The contribution of time and patience is making the biggest differ-ence with the development of security forces,” said Boyle.

camp leatHeRnecK, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Adam LeyendeckerSgt. Matthew P. Boyle and Cpl. Joshua Hillyard pose for a photo at Joint Sustainment Academy Southwest aboard Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, July 6. The two instructors had the opportunity to observe the Afghans who attended the academy in real combat operations.

Marine trainers get firsthand look at Afghan police progress

Story by Cpl. Meredith Brown

For Lance Corporals Lauren Kohls and Sarah Lowe, both Pashto linguists with 2nd Radio Battalion, Task Force Belleau Wood, education is the building block to the future of Afghanistan. With this in mind and a passion for the culture, the two Marines teamed up during their deployment and founded a non-profit corporation, Hayla International.

Hayla, Pashto for “hope,” is an up-and-coming endeavor that the Marines started on their yearlong deployment to Helmand province, designed to pro-vide alternative education solutions in Afghanistan.

With the help from Lowe’s husband, Sgt. John Lowe, who provided admin-istrative assistance throughout the Ma-rines’ deployment, Hayla International was incorporated in Texas, July 28, 2011.

Throughout much of the poverty-stricken and rural province children do not have the option to get educated be-cause in many cases it is unsafe to build a school, explained Lowe.

The Marines’ inspiration to start Hayla International came from their pas-sion for Afghan culture.

As linguists, Kohls and Lowe had a unique opportunity to learn Pashto and about the Afghan culture and lifestyle, explained Kohls.

Now, they are using this knowledge to develop Hayla International.

“We’re developing a curriculum to teach Afghans how to read and write in Pashtu,” said Kohls. “With the language that we have, it’s something that we can

provide to them and we have native Afghans that are willing to voice over the entire curriculum for us, so that we can provide an audio book along with a written textbook to areas that don’t have access to schools.”

Lowe’s and Kohls’ drive to start Hayla International is directly related to their experiences while serving in Helmand province.

“After being out here a while, we real-ly saw a need for education,” said Lowe. “We’ve seen kind of where this country is headed in the past however many years of war with no education and people just not having futures and not have a chance to do something better for themselves.”

For Kohls, education is essential for Afghanistan to progress.

“If your country is not educated it will never progress at the rate that other countries around the world are,” Kohls explained. “That’s something that we see in Afghanistan now, compared to where we are in America, they are very far behind us. I also feel, especially with our hearts and minds missions, if we as Americans come in to Afghanistan and they don’t have the education behind what we’re trying to give them, they’ll never understand the changes we’re try-ing to make or why we’re trying to make them.”

The Marines are redeploying, but will continue to work to provide education alternatives in Afghanistan. Both Lowe and Kohls plan to return to Afghanistan to teach later in their lives.

For more information, visit www.haylainternational.org.

Photo by Cpl. Meredith BrownLance Corporals Sarah Lowe and Lauren Kohls, both linguists with 2nd Radio Bat-talion, started the non-profit corporation Hayla International during their year-long deployment to Helmand province.

camp leatHeRnecK, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

Marine linguists’ passion for Afghan culture inspires plan for local youth


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Story by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard

The sound of diesel engines fills the morning air at Patrol Base Boldak. Several Marines

rush into a large metal storage con-tainer used to store food. They grab a handful of packaged muffins, Pop Tarts, energy drinks and bottles of Ga-torade and stuff them into backpacks. They then throw on their body armor and climb into armored vehicles. In a few moments they will drive several miles to a nearby village. There, a long day of foot patrols through irrigated fields and dusty farmland awaits them, but for now – breakfast.

Since arriving in Afghanistan in September, Marines with Company W, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, a reserve unit based out of New England, have been patrolling throughout the southern portion of the Washir district, Helmand province. This area represents the southern border of Task Force Bel-leau Wood’s area of operations, which

is the battle-space surrounding Camp Leatherneck, the largest coalition base in Helmand province.

The Marines’ mission is to deny insurgents freedom of movement and to provide security for the people liv-ing in the surrounding villages. This neighborhood is their beat and they are the cops who walk it, who own it.

The Marines of Weapons Com-pany are divided into mobile assault platoons, or “MAPs.” The MAPs take turns between quick reaction force duty on Camp Leatherneck and patrolling out of PB Boldak.

Today, the patrol consists of several armored vehicles with mine rollers attached to the front designed to deto-nate any improvised explosive devices without causing major damage to the vehicles or the Marines inside. Near the rear of the column is a 7-ton truck with an open bed. About eight Marines from MAP 4 sit shoulder to shoulder and are able to enjoy a wide open view of the countryside.

They drive on dusty paths cutting through fields scattered with volcanic rocks. During the noisy and bumpy ride, the Marines are showered by sand kicked up by the truck’s tires. The Ma-rines eat their breakfast while discuss-

ing the latest rumors spreading through the company.

The most commonly spread rumor is about MAP 1 supposedly taking small arms fire from insurgents on a

On patrOl patRol BaSe BoldaK, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Bryan NygaardCpl. Marcus Yeakel, an anti-tank missleman with Mobile Assault Platoon 4, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, pauses during a patrol in the south-ern portion of the Washir District, Helmand province, Oct. 2, 2011. The Marines of Weapons Company, 1st Bn., 25th Marines have been familiarizing themselves with the southern border of Task Force Belleau Wood’s battlespace since arriving in Afghanistan in September.

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10|Welcome Home Special edition 2012

recent patrol. As the column of vehicles passes by Afghan farmers herding sheep and camels, one Marine rehashes a recent incident where an Afghan farmer hit an IED with his tractor.

When the convoy reaches its destination, the Marines jump down from their vehicles and gather together to coordinate who will be going where. They are joined by the Afghan soldiers partnered with them for the operation.

Once the plan is drawn up, the Marines and their Afghan counterparts are on the move.

Lance Cpl. Cody Hogdahl, a mortarman with MAP 4, uses a mine detector to find a safe path for his fellow Marines to follow. John, an explosives detection dog, trots in front of the platoon to find any other IEDs. The Marines become slightly concerned when the dog stops and sniffs around an area in their path. A feeling of relief washes over them as the dog then lifts his hind leg to mark the area, but not for IEDs.

They march through irrigated fields and dusty backroads. It is quiet. The silence is occasionally broken by a farmer using a tractor to till his field or helicopters flying overhead.

The farmers are mostly indifferent to the Marines. Most of them work at a feverish pace, plowing their fields, getting ready to plant crops, which will mainly consist of corn and poppy. Some of them raise their heads, only to acknowledge the Marines’ presence and then return to work. The children are more curious; some of them run out of their compounds to get a better look at the strangers walking through their front lawn.

The leaders of MAP 4, 1st Lt. Ryan Tahbo and Staff Sgt. Jeremy Greenfield, walk up to many of the farmers while they are working to ask them a few friendly questions. With the help of their interpreter, they find out general information as to the comings and goings of the area and what needs the people might have.

“We’ve been trying to familiarize ourselves with that section before we move fur-ther,” said Greenfield, the platoon sergeant for MAP 4. “We’re pushing into areas where there has been no coalition presence for a while…at least 20 days.”

At one compound, Greenfield looks through a shed used to house grain and fertil-izer for any bomb making material such as ammonium nitrate. Several children stand at the doorway of the compound and quietly watch. Before leaving the compound, 1st Lt. Tahbo, talks with the owner of the compound and gives a handful of candy to the children.

As dusk settles over the rolling farmland, the Marines of MAP 4 return to their

vehicles. Nothing substantial or exciting has occurred today, which has been the pattern since Weapons Company began patrolling through the area. However, they have been using this time to become more and more familiar with the area.

As the New England Marines climb back into the 7-ton truck to return to base, someone inside the cab yells out to Lance Cpl. Michael Mitry, who is sitting in the back.

“Hey Mitry, I think we’re winning the war!”

patrol from 8

Photo by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard1st Lt. Ryan Tahbo, commander of with Mobile Assault Platoon 4, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment points out the path the platoon while patrolling in the southern portion of the Washir District, Helmand province, Oct. 4, 2011.

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Marines see a man walking, he does not see them. He hunches down and starts to dig. The Marines believe he is planting an improvised explosive device, but they do not know for sure. There is nothing that identifies him as the enemy.

For the Marines of 2nd Radio Battalion, Task Force Belleau Wood, his communication will be the key in determining whether or not that man is friend or foe.

“It’s almost impossible to tell who the bad guys are,” said Lance Cpl. Andrew J. Armstrong, a forward observer with Fire Control Team 5, Supporting Arms Liaison Team Chuck, 2nd Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company. “The Taliban use farmers, women and children as shields. They hide among them and use them to their advantage.

“When Radio Battalion got out here, they opened our eyes as to where the Taliban were hiding. They’re the Marine Corps’ greatest asset out here right now. Those guys are money.”

Where Radio Bn. makes its money is in giving coalition units indication and warning of insurgent activity. The battalion consists of linguists and signal analysts who identify enemy communication and help units identify potential areas of enemy activity. If they confirm any hostile intentions, they pass the information to the unit they are supporting. That unit then administers justice as required.

For ANGLICO, a unit that specializes in providing close air support, thoroughness is very important.

“It helps build our case to drop ord-

nance,” said Cpl. Darrell Martin, a forward observer with 2nd ANGLICO. “We have to have all the facts laid out in front of us before we attack. We have to be precise, that way we don’t kill any civilians.”

In one instance, Radio Bn. helped AN-GLICO stop an improvised explosive device attack by insurgents. Radio Bn. received communication concerning someone burying something on a road. Looking through a pair of binoculars, ANGLICO Marines were able to spot two men digging. They also spotted wires going into the ground, which indicated the men were burying an IED. The men were then caught and made to dig up the large pres-sure plated IED they had just planted.

In addition to helping stop insurgent attacks, Radio Bn. Marines also collect infor-mation on future operations, information on IED factories and facilitators, enemy tactics and numbers of insurgents.

For Cpl. Scott Harvey, a cryptologic linguist with Operational Command Element 2, Charlie C, 2nd Radio Bn., cracking the insurgents’ code is not always easy, but when it works, it is a rewarding experience.

“It’s difficult adjusting to the local dialect, terminology and phrases,” said Harvey. “You have you to find a way to translate that into something that makes sense in English.

Harvey takes pride in the fact that his unit is able to give warning of an attack and ultimately save the lives of Marines.

“We have a direct effect on the situation and the tactical stance of the Marines in the area. There’s no one else in the Marine Corps that can do the job that we do.”


Task force belleau wood Helmand province, afgHaniStan

Photos by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard(Top) Sgt. Joseph Graham, a forward observer with Fire Control Team 5, Supporting Arms Liaison Team Chuck, 2nd Air-Naval Gunfire Liaison Company monitors a village for insurgent activity, May 7, 2011. Marines with 2nd Radio Battalion, Task Force Belleau Wood, supply units like 2nd ANGLICO with indications and warning of insurgent activity. (Above) Cpl. Zachary Draskovich, a cryptologic linguist with Operational Command Element 2, 2nd Radio Battalion, Task Force Belleau Wood, determines insurgent activity while on patrol, May 8, 2011.

radio battalion helps intercept insurgents


Story by Cpl. Timothy Solano

Under the rule of Emperor Augus-tus, known also as Octavian, early first century Rome saw the creation of a dy-namic legion of elite warriors, known most commonly today as the Prae-torian Guard of the Roman Empire. Almost 2,000 years later, the Praetorian namesake has been donned once again, though this time by the members of Task Force Belleau Wood, who serve aboard Camp Leatherneck, Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Protectors of the emperor and defenders of Rome, the Praetorians of history made a name for themselves by aiding in leading Rome into an extended period of peace, or “Pax Ro-mana.” It is in this capacity that Task Force Belleau Wood took on its sym-bolic mascot, as the success of Camp Leatherneck and the surrounding area is heavily dependent on the effective-ness of its own guard force.

“Looking at the history of what the Praetorians did for Rome fit our mis-sion,” said Sgt. Maj. Craig Cressman, Task Force Belleau Wood sergeant major. “We adopted the name and ev-erything else started to fall in place. We have protected the general and aided his staff. We have grown a camp to be one of the greatest in Afghanistan, and we have secured and policed Camp Leatherneck and made it a functional, habitable place to live.”

The task force is broken into five subordinate Marine Corps battalions and other NATO International Security Assistance Force entities, to include a Royal Air Force squadron and a detachment of Bahraini Rangers, who support the highest echelon of com-mand on Camp Leatherneck, Regional Command Southwest.

Within each supporting element of the task force, service members operate in a myriad of capacities ranging from

radio operations, to patrolling on foot, to administrative support. What makes the unit distinctive among others on Camp Leatherneck is the fact that these job-specific skills are performed by service members operating outside of their assigned occupational specialty.

“Every Marine is a rifleman here at Task Force Belleau Wood,” said Cress-man, “because everyone has to be.”

Marines who typically operate in an administrative or logistical position within the unit can often find them-selves donning full personal protective equipment, and assigned as a security detail for various missions in Belleau Wood’s area of operations. It is this

uniquely adaptable trait of the task force that allows it to consistently yield results from the versatile group of service members.

“I have seen my Marines work longer hours than most people,” said Cressman. “I have seen them work not for themselves, but for the unit by sup-porting the war fighter – either securing the (area of operations) or providing administrative and logistical support to the (Marine Expeditionary Force).”

Eleven months into a deployment to Afghanistan, the service members of Task Force Belleau Wood are preparing to wrap things up in Helmand province and transfer authority to the I Marine

Expeditionary Force, due in theater in the coming months.

Many of the unit’s accomplishments came at a cost: time away from families and friends, grueling work hours, and the loss of several brothers-in-arms, were just a few of the sacrifices made in pursuit of mission success.

“Fortuna audaces iuvat,” translated from Latin to mean fortune favors the brave, serves as a constant reminder to each Praetorian in the unit that all great things come with a price. As the original warriors did centuries ago, the service members of Task Force Belleau Wood aim to see the mission through, as protectors of their beloved nations.

Task Force Belleau Woodcamp leatHerneck, Helmand province, afgHaniStan

Photos by Cpl. Meredith Brown(Left) Daoud Mohammad, the Washir district governor speaks to Task Force Belleau Wood Marines, coalition partners and local Afghans at a shura, Nov. 28, 2011. The shura was held to discuss plans to build a new police station and bazaar in the Washir district. (Right) Col. Michael M. Sweeney (left), commanding officer for Task Force Belleau Wood, and Col. Michael E. Cordero (right), Task Force Belleau Wood comptroller, meet with Daoud Mohammad, the Washir district governor, to talk about improvements and developments within the district, Nov. 28, 2011. During the shura, plans to build a new police station and bazaar were discussed.

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Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew

Marines and sailors with 2nd Marine Division (Forward) spent 2011 deployed to Helmand and Nimroz provinces, Afghanistan, leading Task Force Leath-erneck in support of Operation Endur-ing Freedom during a pivotal period in southwest Afghanistan.

The ground combat task force engaged in an evolution across the battle space brought about through counterinsurgency operations, removing enemy insurgents, working side-by-side with Afghan Nation-al Security Forces, developing infrastruc-ture, and beginning the transfer of security responsibility to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Defeating insurgents operating within the division’s area of operations laid the foundation for further success. One of many clearing operations during the divi-sion’s tenure in Helmand brought together Marines with Regimental Combat Team 8, Afghan National Army soldiers with the 215th Corps, and Afghan National Police to clear known insurgent hotbeds along Afghan Highway 611 as part of Op-eration Eastern Storm. The roadway, held by the enemy and riddled with improvised

explosive devices, connects many north-ern villages to the provincial government in Lashkar Gah, the provincial capital.

The operation forced insurgents to relinquish their grasp on the area and cleared the route of IEDs, allowing residents safe travel to conduct business in the provincial capital and providing thousands of farmers access to larger markets, ultimately increasing commerce in southwestern Afghanistan. The opera-tion also re-established the presence of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the Kajaki District, a strategic region housing the Kajaki dam, which provides hydroelectric power and water to much of the district.

“The people of the Upper Sangin Valley and Kajaki District asked us to help them rid their homes of the insur-gency,” said Col. Eric M. Smith, com-manding officer of RCT-8. “The area immediately surrounding the dam will no longer be just a bubble of security. Opening Route 611 allows the people to visit the markets in Sangin and Gereshk and travel to the provincial capital of Lashkar Gah. They are as much our allies in this operation as is the Afghan soldier fighting alongside

the Marine riflemen.”Partnered efforts such as Eastern

Storm have been key for Marines and sailors working with local and national Afghan security forces to eliminate the insurgent threat and provide a secure environment, acting as the foundation for future progress in the province.

“Security comes first. It is important for (Afghans) to take care of themselves, and it is vital that when there are no coalition forces assisting them [in the future], they are able to protect the local people who live throughout the region,” said 1st Lt. Chiraag Dave, Afghan National Security Forces coordination of-ficer for 2nd Marine Division (Forward). “We want them to be successful and be able to protect themselves. They are start-ing to take ownership and responsibility. They are starting to rely less on Marines and use their own judgment and intuition when reacting to different situations.”

Marines and sailors began to function more as advisers this year while working with Afghan National Security Forces, taking a step back as Afghans stepped up to fill the gap and take responsibility for the safety and security of their people.

The city of Marjah is a perfect ex-

ample of the Afghan government making progress. Formerly an insurgent strong-hold teeming with illicit activity only two years ago, Marjah now exists as a beacon of progress.

“They are doing a fantastic job,” said 1st Lt. Douglas L. Price, a platoon com-mander with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, formerly deployed to Marjah.

“They handled search procedures, dealt with detainees, worked with local leaders and interacted on their own. They need a little help with communications and gear, but where they are now, they are ready to do what they need to do.”

“Every day our security is improving,” said Mohammad Rasoul Barakzai, the deputy district governor of Marjah. “Our afghan local police have had a great result, and everyone in Marjah, village wise, has security.”

In another part of the province, ANSF exhibited their capabilities on a larger scale during Operation Eagle Hunt. The entirely Afghan-led mission was a four-phase shaping operation to clear the Taghaz area of insurgent activity in

Evolution of war: A year in Helmand with 2nd Marine Division (Forward)camp leatHeRnecK, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

see evolution 22

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Story by Cpl. Meredith Brown

Petty Officer 2nd Class Kimberly Ryan stands in an open crop field surrounded by children. Greetings of “salaam alaikum,”

which translates to peace be unto you, are said as she high-fives the local residents. Smiles spread across the faces of the children and laughter rings out through the brisk morning air as the sailor at-tempts Pashtu, the language spoken in the area.

Ryan, the team leader for Female Engagement Team 8, continues greeting the children before a hand reaches out and will not let go. Her eyes fol-low the hand up to the face of an elderly woman; recognition lights up in her joyful eyes. The woman is Janet Bibi, a leader in the local area who serves as the chairwoman at the women’s shura at Forward Operating Base Jackson.

The attendance at the women’s shura meetings have been down because Bibi was ill, explained Ryan. There is now hope attendance will grow after finding her again.

As part of the engagement team, Ryan and her teammate, Cpl. Brandy Bates, not only host shuras for women and children on FOB Jackson, but they also support 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment by interacting with the women in the area and search-ing them for contraband when necessary.

The Pashtun code of conduct, “Pashtunwali,” places great emphasis on the concept of honor, and

a woman’s honor is directly tied to the notion of overall family honor, Ryan explained. As a result, women are kept separated and inaccessible to other men.

For an infantry battalion conducting counter-insurgency operations in a populated area, this can make interacting with the local women difficult. Female engagement teams are able to bridge this cultural gap by accompanying the Marines. While supporting the ANA soldiers and Company L Ma-rines, the team met with local women in the village.

“It’s important to meet with them in their homes because it’s a safe area for them, so they are more keen to open up and talk to us,” said Bates. “The women aren’t allowed to leave their homes already since their husbands work all day, so it’s nice to have a friendly face come and join in with some “girl time” company. I definitely like to see the smiles and share common ground with these women. The feeling of them trusting us helps keep the motivation that we are doing the right thing to support them and give them that voice.

Bibi’s reunion with the female engagement team is a building block for continuous support and rap-port with the local Afghans. It is a step in the right direction for the team and gives them a new hope for future interactions with them.

“We hope this brings more information and pos-sibly women to the women’s shuras, now that they know they can trust us and talk to us,” said Bates.

Female engagement team SanGin diStRict, Helmand pRovince, afGHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Meredith BrownCpl. Brandy Bates, a team member with Female Engagement Team 8, talks with a local Afghan boy at a stop while supporting soldiers from the Afghan National Army’s 215th Corps and Marines with Company L, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment during a foot patrol through the village of Tughay, Sangin District, Helmand province.

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Story by Cpl. James Clark

The Marines and sailors of 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, are engaged in Operation Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), a major offensive operation to root out the Taliban-led insurgency in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki.

The battalion is accomplishing its mission to secure Route 611 from Sangin to Kajaki by moving companies into designated areas across the district and relying on individual platoons and squads to operate independently in heavily vegetated and rough terrain.

The men of second platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, inserted by helicopter recently under the cover of darkness and, at first light, began a five-day march prior to establishing Patrol Base Pennsylvania.

“Things have been going pretty slow, but good,” said Lance Cpl. Joshua Ken-nedy, an M-240 machine gunner. “We don’t want to go fast. It’s been pretty successful where we’re at right now, nobody’s been hurt. We expected it to

be way more kinetic, but luckily it hasn’t been too bad so far.”

Carrying all the ammunition, weaponry, food, water and other as-sorted equipment they could fit into their packs, they travelled roughly three miles amidst infrequent and abrupt am-bushes and, at times, rounding corners that put them face-to-face with enemy fighters armed with rocket propelled grenades.

“Everyone’s feeling the pain, every-one’s sore,” said Kennedy. “It’s hard to pick up your feet as is, and going through the canal systems and corn fields (with all our gear), it’s bad on your knees and feet. Your knees are taking a sheer beating the whole time, not to include your back.”

Kennedy, who hovers around six feet tall and weighs approximately 180 pounds, carries on his body approxi-mately 120 additional pounds of equip-ment, including rounds for his M-240B medium machine gun, the weapon itself, a slew of other munitions, and a few personal comforts, such as a sleep-ing bag and hygiene supplies.

Seeing a column of Marine Corps infantrymen move through a maze of cornfields, more laden with gear than the most unloved pack animal, one would expect a ceaseless chorus of complaints and sighs, but the few moans they make are drowned out by an end-less stream of banter and surprisingly upbeat humor.

“We pick up morale by joking around,” explained Kennedy, who proudly fulfills the role of stand-up comic for his squad. “We all joke around and act like we’re having a good time – laugh at our misery. If you ain’t gonna laugh, you gonna cry.”

As trivial as humor may seem to the overall success of the mission, it serves as an indicator of the unit’s morale, which, with all they have been through, remains high, explained 1st Lt. Danny Graziosi, the second platoon com-mander.

“The morale is never a question; they can accomplish whatever I ask them to do,” said Graziosi. “They just look to the left and right, and that’s all the motivation they need.”

“Kajaki Sofla is now buzzing with citizens who have never seen the Afghan National Security Forces and have known only murder and intimidation for the last several years,” said Brig. Gen, Lewis Craparotta, commanding general, 2nd Marine Division (Forward)/Task Force Leatherneck. “Villagers are now approaching our coalition forces and returning to their homes.”

Editor’s Note: First Battalion, 6th Marines is currently assigned to Regi-mental Combat Team 8, 2nd Marine Division (Forward)/Task Force Leather-neck. Task force Leatherneck serves as the ground combat element of Regional Command (Southwest) and works in partnership with the Afghan National Security Forces and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to conduct counterinsurgency opera-tions. The unit is dedicated to securing the Afghan people, defeating insurgent forces, and enabling ANSF assumption of security responsibilities within its area of operations in order to support the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance.

KaJaKi SoFla diStRict, Helmand pRovince, aFgHaniStan

Marines push through Kajaki Sofla

OperatiOn eastern stOrm

Photo by Cpl. James ClarkMarines with second platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, take up a position and set an ambush for insurgents. The Marines and sailors of Company B are are participating in Operation Eastern Storm to drive out insurgents in the area as part of their clearing efforts to free Route 611 from insurgents.

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Story by Cpl. James Clark

Columns of mopeds, caravans of pack animals and an endless stream of trucks, tractors and trailers heralds the return of

local residents to the Kajaki Sofla District. The area was nearly a ghost town when the

Marines of 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and Afghan soldiers inserted during Operation Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm). In recent days, however, there has been a slow, but steady return to normalcy as the insurgent threat in the area has been systematically eliminated.

The goal of this major offensive operation is to force the Taliban-led insurgency in the Upper Sangin Valley region out of Kajaki. Coalition and Afghan National Security Forces pushed north from Sangin along Route 611, clearing insurgents out of the area along the way and securing the road leading to the once-terrorized village.

The offensive has allowed local residents to return to their homes and brought commerce back to the local bazaar. With the majority of insurgent forces on the run, having fled since the outset of the operation, the Marines find themselves with a rare opportunity.

“What we have and (the insurgents) don’t is presence,” explained Townsend, Mass., native

Capt. Paul Tremblay, company commander, Bravo Company, 1/6.

The ultimate goal, explained Tremblay, is to have members of the local populace take charge, to take ownership over their community and no longer live in fear of reprisal from insurgent forces operating in the area.

Another goal for coalition forces in the area is to bring the region’s youth into the fold, an oft ignored group within the more traditional Muslim culture. Due to a rising feeling of disempowerment within this group, some young men between 14 and 30 have rallied to the Taliban’s cause.

“You have three types of Taliban fighters: the foreigners who come over here solely to fight us, the diehard believers who are from the area, and fi-nally the majority of their fighters who join mainly due to economic opportunities,” said Gonzalez.

The Marines are working to support govern-ment of Afghanistan efforts in the region to provide jobs and establish long-term institutions to train and educate individuals who can then better their communities. However, the district must be at the right stage before trade and vocational schools can be established, according to Gonzalez.

“We have to set the building blocks so they can continue when we’re gone,” Gonzalez explained. “To do that we need Afghan counterparts.”


Photo by Cpl. James ClarkA Marine with second platoon, Company B, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, provides security during a recent patrol through the Kajaki Sofla Bazaar. The unit is engaged in Operation Eastern Storm, a major offensive in which they are working with Afghan forces to make the area safe for residents to return to their homes.

operation eastern stormKaJaKi SoFla diStRict diStRict, Helmand pRovince, aFgHaniStan

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Story by Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe

Marines and sailors wait in the cold, dark, desolate Afghan desert. The air is heavy with moisture, teasing the troops with a potential downpour.

If the rain came, then the aircraft wouldn’t. The rain never came.

An MV-22 Osprey swooped down into position next to the Marines and in an instant they were loaded inside. Each Marine was carrying enough water, food and gear to last them for several days away from any kind of support.

On Nov. 26, 2011, Operation Western Gambit began. Marines from 2nd Bat-talion, 4th Marine Regiment, loaded into helicopters and trucks from their bases in Now Zad and Musa Qal’eh districts to enter into villages where coalition forces had never been to disrupt the insurgent forces controlling the area.

“There is a lot of enemy activity and a lot of things to expect. We expect direct and indirect fire; the threat is really real,” said 1st Lt. Okechukwu Ihenacho, the platoon commander of second platoon, Weapons Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, before the operation began. “The biggest threat, obviously, is the (improvised explosive device) threat. The Taliban knows that we are in Now Zad and have anticipated our movement. They have likely established IED belts in our direction of travel, in plans to mitigate our movements into those towns. They are not necessarily fighters, but do facilitate IED making and IED emplacement.”

This threatening insurgent strong hold in the battalion’s area of operation is

mostly home to impartial Afghan citizens. Their lives are ruled by an impeding insurgent presence ultimately controlling their lives with threats of pain and death. Operation Western Gambit opened the door for the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to help bring order and justice to the people of the villages.

“We will introduce the Afghan National Army to the outskirts so they can secure the security bubble around the area,” Ihenacho said. “We will introduce the Afghan National Police to the popula-tion centers so they can control them and influence the populace. The tribal elders, which are very linked to the central government, will be brought into the fold. We will introduce them to GIROA and hopefully that will lead into the develop-ment of those areas.”

The operation began with night inserts from an MV-22 Osprey into the desert, several kilometers outside the villages. The Marines trudged through the uneven terrain aided by night vision goggles and navigated their way to the villages as the sun rose on the horizon. The plan for disrupting enemy forces was to not just merely make a presence, but to go through the villages and, with the aid of the ANA, clear houses, ridding any remaining traces of insurgent supplies.

“Clearing will take no more than four days from the start, but the continuous operations will be ongoing until certain conditions are met,” Ihenacho said. “We want to build up the ANSF and GIROA forces in the area until it is safe to turn back to them. There is a clear delineation

between the insurgents and the local popu-lace. The insurgents don’t really have a lot of sympathizers, they are pretty much fence sitters, they’re gonna go with who-ever the winning side is. Once we show that we’re the winning side they’re gonna come to our table. It is that simple.”

The ANA soldiers huddled together in a calm silence, aside from U.S. forces, as the Osprey landed. For most of the soldiers, the operation was unlike any-thing they had yet experienced. They were mentally preparing to undertake the huge upcoming responsibilities. Most of the soldiers had never been in a helicopter before.

The movement began unhindered, moving through three adjacent villages in the first day of the operation. Marines could be heard joking that the opera-tion was over after the first day, but they understood the reality the mission was far from complete.

The Marines with second platoon in-serted by helicopter and cleared their way through two villages by mid-afternoon. They encountered no resistance from small arms fire or improvised explosive devices. The next stop was a third village where they met up with other platoons from Weapons Company for a shura with the village elders.

The once serene operation turned into a hail of gunfire on the Marines posi-tion, breaking their luck of maintaining a peaceful environment.

A small group of insurgents fired on the Marines and ANA soldiers from behind walls in a neighboring village, approximately 1,000 yards away from

the Marines patrol. Orange tracer rounds streamed through an empty field, impact-ing in the dirt around the Marines who instinctively fell to their stomachs.

The barren area offered no cover from the incoming fire, save for a small hill, roughly three-feet-tall and 20 wide. Ma-rines and soldiers found cover behind the hill and treated a casualty that received a bullet through the neck. Miraculously the bullet wound was superficial.

“It went as it was supposed to originally, we landed and started clear-ing three towns without any exchange of rounds happening,” said Sgt. David Pedroza, the squad leader of 1st squad, second platoon. “I was kind of sur-prised; it seemed like a really boring day. We were about to come back and set up a patrol base at the end of the day when we started taking rounds from Rhazdan Sofla. My squad moved and started returning fire until the enemy retreated over a hill. There was a shura with town elders talking with Marines. The insurgents shot right into the direction of that shura. It is most disrespectful, and hopefully that will show the elders that we are there to protect them while it demonstrates that the insurgents will shoot at them.”

The fire fight, lasting nearly 15 min-utes, effectively slowed the Marines from returning to the first village they cleared to establish a patrol base and sleep for the night. A convoy of trucks altered their mission and spent the night on the top of a hill, wrapped around the tired Marines.

noW Zad diStRict, afgHaniStan

Clearing insurgents in Now ZadOperatiON WesterN Gambit

Photo by Cpl. Clayton Von-DerAheA Marine hikes though the Af-ghan desert in Now Zad District as part of operation Western Gambit, Nov. 27, 2011. The operation introduced the Afghan National Security Forces and Coalition Forces to people in iso-lated villages in the Musa Qal’eh and Now Zad districs.

see inSuRgentS 19


The Marines slept on cold rocky terrain, most without any sufficient way to keep warm. They followed the rule of “pack light, freeze at night” for the operation due to the large amounts of ground they cov-ered by foot. Early in the morning, Nov. 28, the Marines arose and began a two-hour hike to another village in the area, the last main objective left in Weapon Company’s clearing aspect of the operation.

The sun nearly cleared the horizon as the Marines approached the village. The patrol moved quietly through a freshly tilled field. The ground was still soft from the recent storms, though only wisps of clouds remained streamed across the orange sunrise. Marines were sinking to the tops of their boots under the weight of their heavy combat load.

Their senses were heightened from the day before, and much like the day before, insurgents exploited the opportunity to unleash machine gun fire on the Marines’ large numbers in barren fields where no cover was readily available. The whistle of the bullet as it streamed past them followed by the sound of the burst told the Marines that they were being shot at and not yet doing the shooting.

Marines again lunged forward through a torrent of gunfire; the orange tracers were once more splashing into the mud around them as their knees pumped to work through the thick sludge and get within ac-curate firing distance before the insurgents retreated.

“Right now it appears that no one really wants us here and they’re doing a good job of slowing us,” Cpl. Eric Mugica, a fire team leader with the unit, said immediately after dodging enemy fire. “It had been raining the past couple of days so the fields are flooded. Myself, I was stuck about knee deep in mud when we were taking small arms fire and was unable to get out while we were taking fire. I eventually pulled out of the mud and got myself some cover.”

The insurgents had cleared the village of its inhabitants the night before in order to effectively combat the Marines. Gun shots shattered the silence intermittently as

Marines maneuvered through the urban environment. A single shot crashed into the top of a mud wall, the bullet ricocheted with a frightening hum and breezed just past the head of an Afghan soldier.

Marine snipers maneuvered along the sides of the surrounding mountains, hoping to eliminate the enemy threats as a squad of Marines was pinned into an area by machine gun fire and another was subject to possible sniper fire. Single round shots crashed off the walls a squad of Marines used for cover.

A Marine Harrier jet silenced all threats as it roared deafeningly over head. The jet did not destroy any of the village, like it was capable of, but displayed the level of force the Marines were capable of.

“As soon as air came on station the pop shots ceased,” remarked Mugica immedi-ately after the show of force. “We are now trying to clear this village (Tange Sofla) as quick as we can.”

Locals to the area began to trickle in shortly after the firing ceased. When questioned, the villagers said that they are victims of the insurgent rule, and do not agree with what the insurgency stands for but have no other option but to go along with their ideology.

Within hours, the area was filled with its occupants once again. Children flooded the streets and played with the Marines. The adults conversed with the Afghan sol-diers in the streets and asked for things the insurgency could not provide, like medical treatment.

The inhabitants displayed a strong interest in working with GIROA officials to help integrate their area into the folds of the district and become part of a bigger whole. The reaction of the area’s popula-tion reflected the strong likelihood of the operation’s success, but only time will be able to tell for sure.

“Once we win it’s going to tip the dynamics and start isolating the insurgents a lot more and we will see less insurgent activities,” Ihenacho said. “Whatever the enemy has is not strong enough to defeat a Marine rifle squad. We’re going to kick the enemy in the teeth.”

Photo by Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe Marines and an infantry detection dog hold security in an isolated village in the Now Zad District that has never seen coalition forces, Nov. 27, 2011. The Marines were engaged in several firefights with insurgent forces during their movement through the area.

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Story by Cpl. Jeff Drew

Sailors and Marines with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regi-ment, began to prepare for the

day. The final day of the Nawa Victory Walk was upon them, and the Marines were excited to finish the four-day, 30-mile patrol.

The trek brought together Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, the battalion com-mander, and Afghan Lt. Col. Gul Ahmad, the kandak commander of 1st Kandak, 1st Brigade, 215th Corps, in a patrol across the district to promote confidence in Afghan security forces and talk to residents.

Cpl. Matthew Noel rose from the ground and gave his bomb-sniffing dog, Sgt. Ringo, a pat on the head. Ringo had slept comfortably on the cot while his owner chose the cold ground, a testament to the dedica-tion Noel has for his dog’s health and performance.

Ringo was taking the morning off and rode in a vehicle at Noel’s recommendation. In the past three days, Ringo had helped lead the patrol, searching for improvised explosive devices for more than 25 miles.

“He needed a little bit more time to cool down,” said Noel. “I don’t think any dog has gone this far in this short of a time span.”

Noel said patrolling without Ringo was different and uncomfortable. “It feels like you’re walking around and you don’t have your weapon,” he explained.

The day marked the shortest dis-tance the Afghan National Army sol-diers and Marines would cover. Rested and relaxed, the Marines and Afghan soldiers made their final movement to Patrol Base Norzai, where the Nawa Victory walk drew to a close.

“It was a sense of satisfaction to see a mostly Afghan National Security Forces patrol walking with relative se-curity through the streets of Nawa, en-joying the people and enjoying visiting other ANSF posts,” said Zagurski. “I took a backseat to nearly every engage-ment we made – I wasn’t the highlight of the patrol; it was ANSF-led, and the people recognized that. Whether it was the clinic ground-breaking, engage-ment with elders, or discussion in the market, our ANSF partnership stepped right up to the role of lead responsibil-ity and the people are accepting that.”

naWa diStRict, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Jeff DrewCpl. Matthew Noel, a dog handler with 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, sits with his bomb-sniffing dog, Sgt. Ringo. The two led the first three days of the Nawa Victory Walk searching for improvised explosive devices, alongside Afghan National Army soldiers from 1st Kandak, 1st Brigade, 215th Corps.

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Story by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

The Marines of third platoon, Compa-ny C, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division (Forward) are nearing the end of their deployment in Marjah District, Helmand province, where they have worked diligently with their Afghan counterparts to continue to advance the once-troubled Marjah toward a future of stability and prosperity.

The Marines still conduct regular secu-rity patrols to maintain their presence in the surrounding area, but have focused primar-ily on mentoring Afghan National Security Force and Afghan National Police person-nel during the deployment, supporting the Afghan forces as they gain independence to take on security responsibility in the future.

“(Third platoon’s mission) involves partnering with ANSF forces; it involves building them up; it involves creating a secure environment for commerce and government to thrive,” said 1st Lt. Jordan Harris, the commanding officer of third platoon.

The Marines have worked to show their Afghan counterparts the importance of reaching out to the area’s residents and of

providing the people a better option to the insurgency if they expect local residents to support the Afghan government.

“Out on patrols, just having a decent interaction with the local populace makes all the difference because insurgents, they’re not out there shaking hands and kissing babies,” said Harris. “The insurgents don’t really have any goal other than chaos and destruction, so it’s easy to talk with people and say, ‘We’re trying to get this clinic mov-ing, we’re trying to get this school started, trying to improve this road. What has the insurgency done for you guys?’”

Company C is currently attached to 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, operating in Badula Qulp, Marjah District, as the rest of 1st Bn., 6th Marines, operates in the Upper Sangin Valley in northern Helmand province. Both battalions participated in the historic Operation Moshtarak in 2010 when coalition forces first pushed into Marjah District, and many of Company C’s Marines are in the area for a second time. Many of those who participated in Operation Moshtarak said they are pleased with their new mission and the develop-ment of the district.

“Things are a lot different,” said Cpl.

Jeffery Rice, a squad leader with third pla-toon. “Last deployment there were a lot of firefights, but this deployment we’ve been working hard to reach out to the people and try to get them to come to our side.”

Third platoon’s Marines have made significant contributions to improving infra-structure and developing ANSF and ANP personnel in Marjah District, and the situ-

ation in the area is better now than when they first arrived earlier this year because of their sacrifice.

“Citizens of our country should under-stand there are good Americans out here, working hard,” said Harris. “I’m sure (the Marines) will look back at this and think, ‘I’m glad I was a part of that,’ because we’re doing good things here.”

Marines near completion of successful deployment in Marjah DistrictpatRol BaSe BeatleY, Helmand pRovince, afgHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Tommy BellegardeA Marine with third platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division (Forward), provides security during a patrol. Third platoon conducts frequent patrols to show their presence in the area and maintain security.

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southern Helmand. “The enemy has been telling people

that there is no government,” said Col. Ali Jan, commander of 2nd Kandak, Afghan Border Patrol, which patrolled during the operation. “We gave the local (residents) a message that the govern-ment is here and the ABP intends on enforcing the laws. A lot of these people didn’t know about the government before we arrived.”

Much of the insurgent force in the area has now been eliminated and a strong foundation of security has been established. The increased security has al-lowed Marines time to interact with local residents as the units work hand-in-hand with GIRoA to revitalize an interest in education, provide community services, and improve infrastructure.

Insurgents closed and destroyed schools during the Taliban’s reign, elimi-nating educational opportunities and causing widespread illiteracy. However, the education sector has begun to flour-ish in Helmand during the last year with local Afghan security forces in place to deter insurgent activities and division units providing support.

Student registration rose in Marjah alone by approximately 600 percent in 2011. In the Sangin District, a former in-surgent hotbed, the number of registered students rose from 267 to more than

2,000. In the Musa Qal’eh District, the number of registered teachers rose to 53, responsible for educating 2,436 students. Local Afghan leaders are working to refurbish primary schools and construct more high schools to meet the needs of the growing influx of interested school children.

“People like education,” said Mohammad Sharif Sharifi, the district governor of Sangin. “For the past 35 years (Sangin residents) have lost interest in education because of the enemy. With the cooperation of the international com-munity, they have gained their interest back.”

The Afghans’ interest to excel also ex-tends beyond the classroom. One of the largest challenges facing Afghans within Helmand is the continued growth of pop-py, an illicit crop used in making heroin and other illegal opiates. Insurgents often pressure local farmers to grow poppy as a way to fund terrorist activities.

In order to combat its cultivation, Af-ghan officials and Marines have worked together to establish a wheat seed distri-bution program as a way to encourage farmers to grow licit crops. The program is part of the Food Zone Program, which allows GIRoA to distribute thousands of bags of wheat seed and fertilizer to farm-ers throughout the province.

“The wheat seed distribution (pro-gram) … is a way to get licit crops, such as wheat and different types of fruits

and vegetables, into the hands of local Nawans,” said Capt. Corey Bafford, the assistant team leader for the civil affairs team attached to 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, formerly deployed to Nawa District, Helmand province. “They get their wheat seed with a co-pay, so they pay a little bit of money, then they get (the seed) at a reduced cost. (It’s) a way to get them to grow these licit crops as opposed to poppy, and it’s contrib-uted in big ways to preventing poppy growth and other illegal crops from being grown.”

The battle against insurgents intimi-dating Afghan farmers to grow illegal crops continues, but Afghan officials and Marines have already seen success throughout the province.

“Nawa had a lot of poppy and opium growth; ... it was everywhere,” said Baf-ford. “Now, when you go out on patrols, you really don’t see poppy and opium be-ing grown in mass quantities like before 2009, when 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, came into the area. So, I think the proof is right there.”

The increased security and progress across the battle space during the division’s yearlong deployment has allowed task force units to focus more attention on advising and support-ing Afghan forces while supporting development efforts. The division also transferred security responsibil-ity from coalition forces to GIRoA in

several districts. At the end of 2011, Nawa, Nad ‘Ali and Marjah districts transferred responsibility of security to Afghan forces and have since contin-ued to see progress.

“The district community councils have begun taking over the (develop-ment) projects,” said Roy, Utah, native Staff Sgt. Joseph Spencer, the develop-ment chief and education officer for the Civil-Military Operations section of 2nd Marine Division (Forward).

“Elders will (now) go to the Afghan government before going to the Marines. The (council) will then have a [meeting] to talk about the best way to fund the project. The people are going to GIRoA and asking for things, and GIRoA is pro-ducing and providing (support) without our help.”

Editor’s note: 2nd Marine Division (Fwd.) heads Task Force Leatherneck. The task force serves as the ground combat element of Regional Command (Southwest) and works in partnership with the Afghan National Security Force and the Government of the Is-lamic Republic of Afghanistan to con-duct counterinsurgency operations. The unit is dedicated to securing the Afghan people, defeating insurgent forces, and enabling ANSF assumption of security responsibilities within its area of opera-tions in order to support the expansion of stability, development and legitimate governance.

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Photo by Cpl. Jeff DrewCpl. Jarrod Knorr interacts with Afghan children at the Marjah District Center. Knorr is a vehicle commander for the Personal Security Detachment with 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, and is currently deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The PSD escorts the battalion commander and other important personnel throughout the battalion’s area of operation.

Photo by Cpl. Marco ManchaPvt. Mahmad Dawod Qalamyar, a patrolman with the Afghan Uniformed Police, reads a Pashto-English dictionary aloud during an evening break. He, along with hundreds of AUP patrolmen, is taking part in a literacy program run by the Higher Education Institute of Karwan, which teaches them to read and write.

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Photo by Cpl. Jeff Drew,Marines with Battery C, 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, fire an M-982 Excalibur round from an M-777 howitzer during a fire support mission. The artillerymen spend hours each day running through dry-fire training drills to keep their skills sharp in preparation for requests for fire support.

Photo by Cpl. Reece LodderAfghan National Army soldier Hussain listens for instructions while halted on a partnered security patrol with Marines from Company I, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment.

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28| 2012 Welcome Home Special edition

Compiled by 2nd MLG (Fwd.) Public Affairs

Since taking over the logistical

reins from 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) in March 2011, 2nd MLG (Fwd.) and its subordi-nate units continued their legacy of service in the form of steadfast support to Regional Command Southwest and International Security Assistance Force operations throughout Helmand and Nimruz provinces.

From day one, MLG assets set out to “take care of the grunts, take care of our equipment and take care of our Afghan partners,” as Brig. Gen. Michael G. Dana, the commanding general of 2nd MLG (Fwd.), declared to his troops shortly after arriving in southern Afghani-stan.

Made up of two combat logistics battalions, one engineer support battalion, a Marine Air-Ground Task Force Support Battalion, and a robust Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd MLG (Fwd.) played

an intricate role in nearly every op-eration executed throughout an area roughly the size of West Virginia.

Over the course of the deploy-ment, logistics Marines and sailors were key players in many large-scale operations and true to the 2nd MLG maxim of “Warriors Sustaining Warriors,” they got the job done time and again.

In May, Marines with CLB-8 and 2nd Explosive Ordnance Dis-posal Company were among the first boots on the ground in Farah prov-ince in a combined effort to recover a downed F-2000 Mirage aircraft.

U.S., French and Italian forces conducted the 81-mile combat logis-tics patrol from Regional Command Southwest to retrieve the French jet without incident in the Bakwa district of Regional Command West.

“The MLG was very aggressive in jumping on this mission,” said Lt. Col. Jim Stone, 2nd MLG (Fwd.) deputy operations officer. “We real-ized early on that a ground recovery was our best option.”

Prior to fall of 2011, the region

through which Route 611 traced north through Helmand province was a dangerous one. Known as the last Taliban stronghold in southern Afghanistan, the Upper Sangin Valley was gripped in terror and saw little activity in the way of local com-merce and development along its main thoroughfare.

Operation Eastern Storm launched in early October to combat the trend of oppression.

The major offensive, led by the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, aimed to drive the Taliban-led insur-gency from the region, while also reestablishing a sense of stability among the local populace. Assisting them in a logistical capacity were elements of 2nd MLG (Fwd.).

“(1st Battalion, 6th Marines) was charged with clearing Route 611 and the Kajaki Sofla Bazaar,” said Capt. Kyle Schull, the company commander of Combat Logistics Company 6. “Our task was to figure out how

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Sgt. Justin J. ShemanskiA Marine with 2nd Engineer Platoon, Combat Logistics Company 6, hauls building materials at Patrol Base New Jersey, Afghanistan, Nov. 23. The company, which is comprised of two engineer platoons and one motor transportation platoon, is an element of Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), and was formed to provide direct support to 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, during Operation Eastern Storm. CLC-6 engineers built several of the patrol bases along Route 611.

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to support that and we decided we were going to stand up a CLC comprised of one motor transportation platoon and two engineer platoons.”

In addition to clearing enemy forces from the population centers along the Helmand River, Schull noted that a secure route would allow convoys to deliver equipment and parts required to install a third turbine at the Kajaki Dam, located northeast of the village of Kajaki.

The dam was built in 1953, and according to the United States Agency for International Development, the additional turbine is part of ongoing project to bring more reliable power and irrigation to the region. Once operation-al, this enhancement would improve energy distribution through Helmand and Kandahar provinces.

“Every day we go out on the road, we see little kids, people waving. We are actually making a difference for the people here, even on a small level,” said Staff Sgt. Davison Slivers, the 7th ESB motor transportation platoon staff noncommissioned officer in charge. “We have made routes to places locals couldn’t even get to before with vehicles. It has improved a lot.”

From Marjah to Kajaki, Marine engineers and motor transportation operators developed several primary

and secondary roadways, assisting both Afghan locals and coalition troops. Routes Red and 611 are perhaps two of the most notable route projects.

In January, elements of the Okina-wa, Japan-based 9th Engineer Support Battalion completed the road surfacing phases of Red and 611, which each pro-vide north and south passage on their respective sides of the Helmand River.

In terms of Route Red alone, he noted expert integration across the Ma-rine Air-Ground Task Force to secure the volatile region through which Route Red intersects. Support from Regimen-tal Combat Teams 6 and 8 was espe-cially critical in allowing the engineers to continue construction efforts.

The enhanced roads are essential to International Security Assistance Force operations, and perhaps most impor-tantly, the livelihoods of Afghan locals in the region due to the proximity of the routes to several major population centers.

Safe roadways will present a viable means of transportation and facilitate economic expansion well into the future.

Medical personnel attached to 2nd MLG (Fwd.) provide a myriad of services to troops seeking care at Camp Leatherneck’s state-of-the-art Concus-sion Restoration Care Center.

The CRCC takes an expeditious, multidisciplinary approach to getting the injured warrior athlete back to the fight and leads the charge in treatment for mild traumatic brain injuries and concussions.

The facility allows injured service members to seek care in-theater, vice being evacuated for medical treatment elsewhere.

“We offer so many things here so we can concentrate on keeping the troops here,” said Cmdr. Earl A. Frantz, the officer in charge of the CRCC.

During the last several months of 2nd MLG (Fwd.)’s deployment, person-nel began the process of accounting for, sorting and redistributing Regional Command Southwest’s gear and equip-ment as Operation Clean Sweep com-menced aboard Camp Leatherneck.

The operation is part of RC (SW)’s plan for redeployment and retrograde in support of reset and reconstitution, which is a four-part term commonly used to refer to the concept of how the Marine Corps will most efficiently and effectively leave Afghanistan.

“The leadership of the 2nd MLG (Fwd.) recognized that the sooner we start on this effort for redeployment and retrograde, the easier it will be to handle the equipment and also the better off

we’ll be,” explained Maj. Ken Karcher, the future operations officer for 2nd MLG (Fwd.) and officer in charge of re-deployment and retrograde operations.

Each element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in RC (SW) conducted an inventory of their gear designed to identify those items that are unnecessary for mission accom-plishment.

According to Karcher, the 2nd MLG (Fwd.) has dedicated lots aboard Camp Leatherneck and Camp Dwyer to col-lect, inventory, clean and process for shipment the surplus gear and equip-ment in RC (SW).

“(These lots) are the last place in country that some of these consumable items that are left in Afghanistan will see before being sent back to the states. We’re trying to use some of these sup-plies as much a possible,” said 1st Lt. Sean P. Carroll, officer in charge of the Camp Leatherneck sort lot.

Not only is the plan designed to facilitate the process of leaving Afghanistan, but it will ultimately save the Marine Corps money by identifying excess gear and reallocating it to the units deployed.

“The first few days of operations we brought in about 2.3 million dol-lars worth of equipment that was all excess,” said Carroll.

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Story By Cpl. Katerine M. Solano

As Operation Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm) continues in the upper Sangin Valley

of Helmand province, Afghani-stan, Marines and sailors with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), conducted multiple route repairs throughout early November.

Operation Eastern Storm began in October as the Marines of 1st Battal-ion, 6th Marine Regiment routed the Taliban from Sangin to Kajaki – the last enemy stronghold in Helmand province – in an effort to secure Route 611.

Engineers moved methodically along the route between Patrol Base Alcatraz and the Kajaki Dam. Not only did 7th ESB help to improve and repair the road, but they also helped to build multiple observation posts along the route.

Along the way, several observation posts were built, and a command out-post and a forward operating base were constructed, said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brandon Smith, the officer in charge of Heavy Weapons Platoon, Security Company, 7th ESB.

“1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regi-ment now mans all those positions and holds the route from PB Alcatraz to the dam so we could come in and build and repair the route,” Smith continued. “Now, commercial trucks can start transporting the proper materials and assets up to the dam for the turbine work they have to do there to start pro-ducing more electricity in the area.”

According to the United States Agency for International Development, this turbine will be the third in an ongo-ing project to bring more reliable power and irrigation to both Helmand and Kandahar provinces.

The additional turbine is key to growth in the area and will allow the dam to provide enough electricity to some of the farther-reaching villages of Helmand province, said Staff Sgt. Davison Slivers, the 7th ESB motor transport platoon staff noncommis-sioned officer in charge.

“Every day we go out on the road, we see little kids, people waving. We are actually making a difference for the peo-ple here, even on a small level. We have made routes to places locals couldn’t even get to before with vehicles. It has improved a lot,” concluded Slivers.

2nd Marine Logistics group Helmand province, afgHaniStan

Photo by Cpl. Katherine M. SolanoChief Warrant Officer 3 Brandon Smith, the officer in charge of Heavy Equipment Platoon, Support Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), shakes hands with a local elder during operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan, Nov. 3.

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Welcome Home“Sgt. Forest Hanke- I am so proud of your hard work and dedication to your country. Life was miserable without you! I LOVE YOU! -Your wife, Emily”

“To all of our wonderful and brave men and women of the Marine Corps returning home: We have prayed for you and your safe return. We thank you with our whole heart for your known and unknown sacrifices. You are all in our thoughts

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“Marine Corps League Det. 1321 Hampstead, NC- Commandant Joe Atkins and all detachment members wish to thank all II MEF Marines and sailors on this monumental occasion. Cherish the living, remember the fallen, honor them all.”

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“Welcome Home Sgt. R.T. Miller, VMM-263! Your family and country are very proud of you and are so happy to have you back home. Love, Nicole, Thomas, Brooklynn and the rest of your family”

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Welcome Home“To Corporal Michael Mercer, I have missed you so much and I’m glad you’re finally home. I am so proud of you and I wish you the best! Love Mom”

“Welcome home LCpl Scott E. Rolison! Congratulations on a job well done - great to have you and all of CLB22 home safe and sound. Love - Mom, Dad, and Sarah”

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“Welcome Home LCpl Jordan Gass, our Kentucky Marine! We have missed you and love you so very much. We are so proud of you and grateful to God that you are home! From, your Mom, Dad, sister, and all of your Kentucky family and friends.”

“A big welcome home to my Marine boys Ham, Eggert, East, Rope, and my favorite Marine, my son Cody. You were gone way too long. Thank you to all Marines for the sacrifices you make for our freedom. Love Mama Dena”

“Sgt. Christian B. Kadlik- Welcome back to America, son! Left a Cpl and returned as a Sgt- and re-enlisted too! We are so proud of you! We’ll see you in New Hampshire in April! Love, Mom, Dad, and the Brodems”

“Merci Maxou; tu es notre Héro. Chapeau pour ton courage. On t’aime; Maman et Papa”

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“Welcome home to the #1 Hubby & Dad, MSgt Thomas Sharpe! We missed you & are thankful you are home safe! We Love You! Your Angel & the kids!


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Firebase Saenz has been destroyed. Its defenses have been torn down and its walls have been completely leveled. This destruction was not caused by insurgents – it was the handiwork of Marines from the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward).

With the recent reduction and reorganization of troops, Saenz is the first of several forward operat-ing bases being demilitarized in Helmand province.

The firebase, which covered a little over 11 acres of Afghan desert, was built more than a year ago and named after Sgt. Jose Saenz III who was killed in action, Aug. 9, 2010.

After convoying north from Camp Leatherneck, the Marines of 9th ESB worked diligently from Dec. 13-15 to properly dis-mantle the base and ensure that there was little, if any, footprint from the Marines.

“Even though it can be diffi-cult (demilitarizing the base), you kind of just want to wreck the place, you know, have some fun with it,” said 1st Lt. Andrew Fas-sett, commander of first platoon, Company A, 9th ESB. “But (the Marines) have been doing a good job taking everything down and making sure to keep it neat so it fits on the truck. We did the right job in terms of cleaning up after ourselves here in Afghanistan.”

One of the more challenging tasks was dismantling the numer-ous HESCO barriers that made

up the guard posts at each corner of the base. HESCO barriers are military fortifications that have seen extensive use in both Iraq and Afghanistan. A typical HESCO is 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide and is made of a collaps-ible wire mesh container with a heavy-duty fabric liner that is usually filled with sand.

The Marines used tractors, forklifts, electric saws, shovels, pick axes, bolt cutters, knives and their hands to rip apart the HESCO barriers.

“It’s pretty tedious work for myself and the other Marines,” said Lance Cpl. Zachary Couch, a combat engineer with Com-pany A. “Using all the power tools, especially the bolt cutters - those get hard after a while…after at least two or three 7-foot HESCO’s, chopping them down from top to bottom. It gets pretty tough.”

The Marines that were equipped with the electric saws were able to cut through the wire mesh with relative ease compared to the bolt cutters. The sparks they produced lit up the evening sky and resembled fireworks that could be seen on the Fourth of July.

As darkness fell, the Marines used the headlights from the tractors to aid them in their disas-sembly of the HESCO’s. As they continued working deep into the night, the temperature dropped below 20 degrees, forcing them to put on more and more warming layers.

A little bit before midnight,

the Marines called it a day. There were no tents to house them in so they slept inside of the armored vehicles that brought them up to Saenz. Several Marines would cram into one vehicle and sleep on top of their packs and body armor. The more Marines that crammed into a vehicle, the warmer it got inside.

The Marines woke up the next morning, grabbed their tools and slowly made their way back to where they had left off the night before.

During the night, the bulldozers had pushed over and flattened the berms that made up the walls of the base, thereby removing protection from any possible insurgent fire. From then on, the Marines had to wear their helmets and body armor. Although it made it slightly more difficult for the Marines to accomplish their duties, it did increase their protection against any possible enemy fire.

Cpl. James Hernandez, a fire team leader in Company A, was still sore from the day before and recovering from small burns inflicted by the sparks that the electric saw created. With fatigue wearing on the Marines under his charge, he would frequently gather them around him and offer some words of encouragement and motivation.

“I hate the cold,” said Hernandez. “It just gets to you after a while. That’s when all the morale starts going down when it starts getting cold or in the

morning, trying to get everyone out of the racks or out of the vehicles which are a little bit warmer than outside.

“It gets kind of tiring every once in a while, trying to figure out how to keep the morale up and try to keep them going as fast as they’ve been going…it wears you out a little bit.”

Lance Cpl. Tameka Demps, a combat engineer in Company A, finds her motivation in the work that she does.

“I just like to work, I like to be busy,” said Demps. “If I stop, I just, I don’t know – I feel like I’m not doing anything. I like doing this. It’s exhausting, but it’s fun.”

Demps was constantly working, picking up pieces of HESCO that probably weighed

as much as she does. Over time, her pace slowed down a bit, but she would never be seen with idle hands. Once all the work was completed, she grabbed a trash bag and began picking up small pieces of trash that were on the ground.

“It’s just helping out with the main mission,” said Demps. “We finish this base, we go on to the next one – we can get this deployment over with and go home.”

Once the Marines of 9th ESB finished dismantling Saenz, they headed toward the next patrol base. They will be working through Christmas and New Year’s, dismantling more patrol bases while navigating roads that are laced with impro-vised explosive devices.

Combat EnginEErs

FiReBaSe SaenZ, aFgHaniStan

tearing down patrol bases, paving way for afghan pullout

Photo by Cpl. Bryan NygaardSgt. Cody Palfreyman, a combat engineer with Company A, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, guides a bulldozer as it moves the berm surrounding a guard post at Firebase Saenz, Helmand province, Dec. 14, 2011.

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Story by Lance Cpl. Bruno J. Bego

One of the most trafficked roads in Helmand province, Afghanistan is Route 606.

Consisting of 218 kilometers of paved road that connects Farah, Herat and Chaghcharan provinces, while winding its way into Iran, Route 606 is used by Afghan Na-tional Army soldiers, coalition forces and locals.

Marines and sailors with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) installed several reinforced culvert denial systems, Aug. 18-20, to coun-ter the damage done by improvised explosive devices placed by enemy insurgents in the drainage pipes lin-ing the road.

“We placed 10 culvert denial sys-tems, and we had to replace a whole culvert after it was blown up,” Sgt. Moses S. Ruiz, a combat engineer with 7th ESB said. “The systems

are going to protect the locals in the area as well as all the commercial traffic on the road.”

The operation lasted four days and included 33 miles of Route 606. The cages will greatly assist Afghan National Army soldiers and coali-tion forces with security operations in the area.

Perhaps more importantly than assisting the forces who patrol the area, the systems will also provide locals, who travel the road daily, with a safer passage of travel as they maintain their livelihoods.

“Hopefully we can help the locals,” said Lance Cpl. Michael S. Adams, a combat engineer with 7th ESB. “They use this road to trans-port their goods to local markets on a daily basis so they can have money for their families.

“I think this will make the in-surgents’ life a little bit harder and our job a little bit easier,” Adams concluded.

7th EnginEEr Support Battalion

Helmand province, afgHaniStan

Photo by Lance Cpl. Bruno J. BegoLance Cpl. Michael S. Adams, a combat engineer with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), cuts metal from a drainage pipe, Aug. 19, 2011, while conducting repairs on Route 606 in Helmand province, Afghanistan. After four days of work. Engineers covered nearly 33 miles of the road. The cages will help ensure safety for the locals who use the road daily.

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Story by 2nd Lt. Joshua Smith

The Afghan National Army will soon have more robust logisti-cal capabilities in Southwestern

Afghanistan. The Corps Logistics Battalion for the 215th Corps of the ANA spent time in Kabul with the guidance and mentorship from Marines and sailors of the 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), in March.

“This is a critical step in enabling the ANA to conduct their own logis-tics operations,” said Capt. Patrick Ross, the Embedded Training Team officer in charge. “The Marines will serve as direct mentors to their Afghan counterparts, within their occupational specialty.”

Ross emphasized to his team the by-with-through method – absolutely everything must be done by the Af-ghans, with their understanding of the proper procedures and through their established chain of command. The expected end result is a more capable Afghan logistics unit, which can operate effectively without coalition involvement.

The opportunity to work with and

mentor Afghan soldiers also serves as a learning experience for coalition forces.

“This is an excellent opportu-nity for young Marines to share their knowledge and skills with the Afghan National Army,” said Master Sgt. Daniel Hitzhusen, the ETT staff non-commissioned officer in charge.

The 2nd MLG commanding general, Brig. Gen. Michael Dana, and sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. William Stables, also visited the ANA CLB and met with the Afghan battalion com-mander, Lt. Col. Mumtaz.

“We have great respect and admira-tion for U.S. Marines,” Mumtaz said through an interpreter. “Everything they do, they do it with passion. We very much look forward to working with them.”

Dana took the opportunity to speak directly to the Afghan CLB’s transpor-tation platoon. “After nearly 30 years in the Marine Corps, I’m convinced that Afghans are some of the toughest and most resourceful people on the planet. We look forward to partner-ing with you in preparation for your upcoming mission in Helmand.”

2nd Marine Logistics group Kabul, afgHaniStan

Photo by 2nd Lt. Joshua SmithThe platoon sergeant of Transportation Platoon, Corps Logistics Battalion, 215th Corps reports to the battalion commander, Lt. Col. Mumtaz prior to commencing training aboard Camp Blackhorse, Kabul, March 19.

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Story by Cpl. Katherine M. Solano

There is a battle of sorts being won in southern Helmand province. The

Marines and sailors at Forward Operating Base Delaram II, and specifically the Shock Trauma Pla-toon there, take pride in ‘winning’ the hearts and minds of locals.

The STP is comprised of enlisted and commissioned sailors ranging from corpsmen to private practice family doctors, from nurses to sur-geons. As part of Bravo Surgical Com-pany, Marine Air-Ground Task Force Support Battalion 11.2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), it is the primary duty of the medical person-nel based here to support the Marines with Regimental Combat Team 8.

However, since the area surround-ing the FOB is relatively peaceful, according to those working at the STP, they are afforded a unique opportu-nity, a fact for which they are very thankful. While the sister STP at FOB Edinburgh treats mainly battle-injured service members, the patients of Delaram’s STP are predominately Af-ghan National Army soldiers, Afghan

Uniformed Policemen and locals, including multiple children.

Positive, growing relationships have resulted with locals due to the level and caliber of care the STP con-tinuously provides. They treat injuries ranging from cuts and scrapes, to gunshot wounds and injuries from im-provised explosive device explosions.

“They don’t really have a health-care system, at least not in this part of the country,” said Navy Lt. Scott LaPanne, a nurse with the STP. “For anything drastic, they can’t go to their field doctor, so they come here.

“I think that the military here has shown a very good presence and I believe that the local nationals here like us more than they hate us. So we don’t get to see some of the bad stuff happening that there is in the other areas of the country. We are more into winning the hearts and minds of the local nationals,” he said.

When asked, several of the corps-men who work with LaPanne agreed when he said that their job at the STP is both rewarding and fulfilling.

“We get to help people get medical care and not always just because of the war,” LaPanne concluded.


Photo by Cpl. Katherine M. SolanoNavy Lt. Scott LaPanne, a nurse with the Delaram Shock Trauma Platoon, Bravo Surgical Company, Marine Air-Ground Task Force Support Battalion 11.2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), takes the temperature of an Afghan National Army soldier in the STP aboard Forward Operating Base Delaram II, Afghanistan, Oct. 23, 2011.

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Story by Lance Cpl. Bruno J. Bego

Mine resistant ambush protected vehicles and their different variations leave camp every

day, but the improvised explosive devices and rugged terrain can quickly put these tough trucks on light duty.

After absorbing an explosion, many trucks seem beyond repair, but the Ma-rine Corps counts on a crew of Marines and civilian contractors to rebuild them from the ground up in just a matter of weeks.

“If it’s Motor T, we’ll work on it, we’ll fix it,” said Chief Warrant Of-ficer Benjamin G. Blanton, the Motor Transportation Maintenance Platoon commander with 2nd Maintenance Battalion - Reinforced, 2nd Marine Lo-gistics Group (Forward). “When other unit’s maintenance sections can’t fix the problems on their vehicles, they bring them to us.”

Marines with Motor Transportation Maintenance Platoon work 24 hours a day, seven days a week to repair dam-aged vehicles for every unit supporting International Security Assistance Force operations throughout Helmand prov-ince, Afghanistan.

“We usually see damages affecting suspension systems,” explained Cpl. Joey L. Johnson, the MRAP floor chief. “We take the trucks and check every aspect of the frame to ensure there aren’t extra damages, then we proceed to repair the trucks.”

The platoon is capable of fixing every vehicle the Marine Corps has, from the smaller mine resistant ambush protected all-terrain vehicle to the heavy logistics vehicle system replacement.

Although these Marines were proficient maintainers before coming to Afghanistan, nothing prepared them for the operational tempo of deployment.

“I think the biggest challenge here is the complexity of the job; it is not the same as working back on (Marine Corps Base) Camp Lejeune,” said Lance Cpl. Bryan Marquez Cortes, a mechanic. “We know what we are doing - we have been doing this for a while; we are ready to fix these trucks regardless of the damage.”

The maintenance Marines know the job is not going to get any easier, but they continue to fix and deliver trucks back to their units in a timely manner so service members inside the area of op-eration can count on a safe ride home.


Photo by Lance Cpl. Bruno J. BegoLance Cpl. Joseph M. Monastero, a motor transportation mechanic with 2nd Maintenance Battalion - Reinforced, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward), smoothes out the surface of an armor plate April 16, 2011, aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan.

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Story by Cpl. Brian Adam Jones and Cpl. Rashaun X. James

As 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) wraps up a yearlong deployment as the aviation combat element in southwestern Afghanistan, its accomplish-ments over the past year reflect the capabilities of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force in projecting power and conducting counterinsurgency operations.

With a headquarters drawn from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C.; MCAS New River, N.C.; and MCAS Beaufort, S.C.; and commanded by Maj. Gen. Glenn M. Walters, the Wing ran the gamut of the func-tions of Marine aviation, from assault support and offensive air support to electronic warfare and aerial reconnaissance.

“I think our use of combined arms and the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force in counter-insurgency) operations and in conventional operations are well

known throughout history,” Walters said. “This just reinforc-es the power of the MAGTF, in my opinion, and shows what we can do when we’re given a battlespace, given a mission, and when we get together as Ma-rines, how we can execute that mission very rapidly in defense of our nation.”

Since taking the helm of aviation combat operations in March, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) has supported numerous combat operations in southwestern Afghanistan including troop transport, aerial resupply, close-air support and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel.

“Aviation has three big and important roles in a counterin-surgency in Afghanistan,” said Walters. “It’s the one asym-metric advantage that we have over the enemy that we take advantage of. It supports our Marines on the ground, keeps them resupplied, gets them back here quickly when they’re hurt,

and provides aviation fires – in aviation fires it also provides a presence over the battlefield. It shapes and it limits what the Taliban can do against our Marines on the ground.”

Early on, 2nd MAW (Fwd.)’s focus was on support-ing operations in Sangin Dis-trict. This included establishing forward arming and refueling points to maximize close air support, creating a detachment of attack helicopters to provide cover for medical evacuation, and moving Marine Corps unmanned aerial vehicles north to help in surveillance efforts.

“We have operationally shaped the battle for what the conflict has presented us,” said Walters.

At the end of the Taliban’s summer fighting season, once operations at Sangin had calmed, Marines in Afghanistan turned their attention to the area just south of the Kajaki Dam. Launching Operation Eastern Storm, the coalition sought

to root out one of the final insurgent footholds in Helmand province.

“Basically, the Taliban’s leadership tries to take the win-ter off, and we don’t let them,” Walters said. “We pushed up to Kajaki, there’s no secret about that. All that happened during the winter months. We made it there a lot quicker than people thought.”

When the Afghan-led force pushed into the region south of the Dam, they found little resis-tance as they secured the area.

“Eastern Storm, I hate to say it this way, but it’s been like all of our other operations here that have gone very, very well,” Walters said. “The Marines on the ground, the Marines in the air, and the Marines supporting in the logistics command did just a fantastic job.”

Over the course of the year, nine Marines with ties to the Wing gave their lives in support of combat operations in Afghanistan – Lt. Col. Ben

Palmer, Staff Sgt. Thomas Dudley, Capt. Ryan Iannelli, Capt. Dan Bartle, Capt. Nathan McHone, Master Sgt. Travis Riddick, Cpl. Joseph Logan, Cpl. Kevin Reinhard and Cpl. Jesse Stites.

With 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) beginning to hand the reins over to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) in early spring, with the Taliban now weakened and fragmented, military officials expect the role of aviation in Afghanistan to shift from counterinsurgency to helping transition security au-thority over to the Afghan forces.

“There’s been tremendous progress. The next step I think under 3rd MAW’s tenure out here, they will see a shift from COIN operations, although we’ll continue to do COIN operations, to security force as-sistance and counterterrorism,” said Walters. “All of that is go-ing to require aviation support. The level and intensity will be determined by the enemy.”

A look bAck

camp leatHeRnecK, afgHaniStan

A year of Marine aviation in southwest Afghanistan

Photo by Lance Cpl. Robert CarrascoFlares are discharged from a CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363 during a routine flight operation, Helmand River Valley, Hel-mand province, Afghanistan, Jan. 5. Marine pilots of HMH-363 utilize flares ensuring the safety of the crew onboard and safeguarding the aircraft while in flight during poor visibility weather.


Photo by Lance Cpl. Robert CarrascoLance Cpl. Brent Nodland, an aviation ordinance technician with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, maneu-vers around a AH-1 cobra to arm its weapon system prior to take-off at a new forward arming and refueling point at Combat Outpost Ouellette in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, April 5. The forward arming and refueling point was recently constructed at Combat Outpost Ouellette to enable 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) to better support Marines and other coalition troops operating near Sangin, Afghanistan.

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Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher Flurry

One of the U.S. military’s most seasoned aircraft has found a new purpose as a one-of- a- kind

weapon for the Marine Corps in support of troops on the ground in Afghanistan.

The U.S. military has relied on the C-130 Hercules platform for a variety of tasks including air-to-air refueling, and cargo and troop transportation for more than 50 years. But the Marine Corps, in partnership with Lockheed-Martin, has recently created a unique variant of its KC-130J by outfitting an existing plane with what has been dubbed the Harvest Hawk weapons system.

“It’s a brand new capability for the Marine Corps and it’s proving itself very well,” said Capt Joel D. Dunivant, a KC-130J aircraft commander with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.

The Harvest Hawk system includes a version of the target sight sensor used on the AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopters. The system expands the role of the KC-130J for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) beyond its traditional level of support to include close air support against enemy

positions and providing surveillance to disrupt improvised explosive device emplacements. “Harvest Hawk, for me, is an opportu-nity to help the guys on the ground,” said Capt. Bradley C. Stadelmeier, with VMGR-352, a co-pilot for the Harvest Hawk equipped KC-130J. Even with its expanded capabilities, Harvest Hawk crewmembers said the aircraft retains its original capabilities in refueling and transportation.

The Harvest Hawk first saw service in the Afghan skies in late 2010. Nearly six months since its inception, the aircraft has spent hundreds of hours in the air supporting coalition troops.

Supporting Marine Corps ground forces and coalition partners is one of the primary missions for the Harvest Hawk equipped KC-130J, and both aircrew and Marines on the ground said its ability to stay in the air for long periods of time, providing both surveillance and close-air support is a primary reason for its suc-cess.

“It’s great to be a part of something that helps Marines get home safely at night,” said Cpl. Jessica M. Egan, a crew chief with VMGR-352, who serves with the Harvest Hawk detachment.

2nd Marine aircraft Wing Helmand province, afgHaniStan

Photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher FlurryThe Harvest Hawk equipped KC-130J rests on the runway at Camp Dwyer, Afghani-stan, March 24, 2011. The one-of-a-kind Harvest Hawk system includes a version of the target sight sensor used on the AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter. This unique variant of the KC-130J supports 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) in providing closer air support and surveillance for coalition troops on the ground in southwestern Afghanistan.

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Story By Cpl. Rashaun X. James

The Marine Corps’ MV-22B Osprey was the world’s first production military tiltrotor

aircraft. Since its inception in the 1980s, the Osprey has seen many trials and tribulations. Unsuccessful prototypes took lives and negative press slammed the project for being too expensive.

Despite these hurdles, the current iteration of the Osprey is alive and well, operating daily from U.S. Navy vessels and supporting coalition troops in Afghanistan.

In 2007, the Osprey began replac-ing the CH-46E Sea Knight, providing assault support and transport for the Marine Corps. For veteran pilots, like Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 264 executive officer Maj. Steve Turner who has piloted both platforms, the Osprey is a clear improvement.

“Everything that has always been advertised about the Osprey in terms of replacing the last medium-lift platform, the CH-46, is true,” said Turner. “With the Osprey we are able to increase the air speed almost three-fold, double our transportable payload and fly at much higher altitudes, keeping us out

of the reach of the enemy’s weapons envelope.”

Turner said the Osprey’s ability to take off and land vertically like a helicopter, and then cruise at more than 250 miles per hour, makes it a prime candidate for conducting troop inserts and combat resupplies in unsecured landing zones in Afghanistan.

“The big advantage with the Osprey is we can go from one runway to an-other runway, or from a runway to any landing zone in our area of operations faster than the other assault support squadrons we have here,” said Maj. Doug Thumm, the assistant operations officer at VMM-264.

The Osprey, a platform with a lot of potential, is hailed by newcomers to the medium-lift community, veterans who cut their teeth on the CH-46 and Ma-rines on the ground, who benefit most from the Osprey’s unique versatility.

“It is phenomenal what we are able to do with cargo and passengers in the Osprey,” said Staff Sgt. Joel Giuliano, the flightline division chief for VMM-264. “It would take us five to seven hours to carry out the same mission in a CH-46. With the speed of the MV-22 we are cutting that time almost in half.”


Photo by Cpl. Rashaun X. JamesSgt. Jacob Carson takes a break from maintaining an MV-22B Osprey at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, June 16, 2011. Carson is a flightline mechanic with VMM-264 based out of Ma-rine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. In 2007, the Osprey began replacing the CH-46 Sea Knight, which had been in service since 1962, with providing assault support and transport for the Marine Corps.

Ospreys continue to serve military

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Marines from Regimental Combat Team 1, with the aid of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing

(Forward), conducted a vehicle interdic-tion and search operation near Afghani-stan’s border with Pakistan, May 4.

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 supplied two CH-53D Sea Stallions to support Marines from RCT-1 while they performed searches of vehicles traveling near Afghanistan’s southwestern border with Pakistan.

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169 supplied two AH-1W Cobras to provide offensive air support to the Marines on the ground, said Capt. Glen Taylor, the assistant future opera-tions officer and heliborne unit com-mander with RCT-1.

“We’re interdicting smugglers who are running weapons, fighters and drugs through the deserts on the Afghan-Paki-stan border,” said Taylor. “The tools we have put in place allow us to make aerial observations of vehicles in this area and if they fit the profile of a vehicle likely to belong to a smuggler, we utilize the Cobras to safely bring them to a halt.”

Recently, Marines with Regimental

Combat Team 1’s aerial reaction force, reinforced by Company E, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, seized more than $2.5 million worth of raw opium and heroin after stopping a suspicious vehicle.

“Operations like these demonstrate to the enemy that we can come in with aeri-al reaction forces and disrupt their supply lines not only from the ground, but from the air as well,” said Maj. Christopher S. Benfield, a future operations planner with 2nd MAW (Fwd.). “By coming in from the air the Marines are able to catch the insurgents off guard and throw their operations off-balance.

“Anything we can do to take away the means that the enemy uses to fund their activities is always a help to the troops on the ground,” Benfield added.

Although the interdictions don’t always lead to big finds, they serve a secondary purpose.

“We don’t always get weapons or drugs on every hit, but we do pick up intelligence and cause some disruption to their trafficking,” Taylor said.

“This is the second time this particu-lar force has done it so they’re pretty well rehearsed,” Taylor said. “We were able to keep the same air crew we had last time, and they did a great job.”


Photo by Cpl. Rashaun X. JamesA sandstorm moves in while CH-53D Sea Stallions from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 return from an aerial interdiction mission in southwestern Afghani-stan, May 4, 2011. Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 supplied two CH-53D Sea Stallions to support Marines from RCT-1 while they performed searches of vehicles traveling near Afghanistan’s southwestern border with Pakistan.

Joining forces for aerial interdictions

Kenny we are so happy to have you back home. The past seven months have been long and lonely. Maddox and I have missed you so much and now you are back where you belong, at home with us!! We are so proud of you and I want you to know how much we ap-preciate what you and the

other Marines do for us and this country. Thank you

baby, you're amazing! P.S. I hope you got plenty of sleep on the plane ride home! *Wink, Wink*

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Cpl Jacob Hanson, it has been far too long since you have been gone and it feels great to finally have you home. It was a long journey of emails, Skype calls, and Care Packages, but we made it. Words cannot express how proud I am of you for everything you have done and everything you will do. I will always support you through anything that life puts in front of you. You are my inspiration. You have kept a smile on my face every day since you left and you always encouraged me that every day

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safe. You have been through so much and I want you to know that I will be here with you and I will be here for you every step of the way. I am so proud of you Jacob. I have never been so proud of some-one before. I’m so glad you are

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Story by Cpl. Brian A. Jones

Under the veil of darkness, a team of Marine Corps CH-53 heavy-lift helicopters

sped over the Helmand River valley in early October.

The Afghan and American troops were the first coalition forces in a massive offensive, Operation Eastern Storm, aimed at rooting out one of the last insurgent strongholds in the region.

As the southwestern regional command of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force undertakes Operation Eastern Storm, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) has provided invaluable support in the coalition’s efforts to secure Afghanistan’s Route 611 and ensure peace and economic development in the region.

“Our big support for Eastern Storm was getting (1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment and 2nd Battalion, 12th Ma-rine Regiment) into position,” said Lt. Col. Robert B. Finneran, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward)’s future opera-tions officer. “The threat level going into this was unknown.”

But coalition forces have been met with little confrontation, Finneran said.

“I think the fact that we were able to get in with relatively little resistance and establish patrol bases is only going to lead to positive relations with the local populace,” Finneran said.

After the initial insertion of the Afghan commandos and Marine Corps ground troops, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward)’s role has entailed providing resupplies and close-air sup-port missions.

“We’ve been able to fly and sup-port in any way (the ground combat element has) asked up to this point,” Finneran said. “The Wing’s flexibility to meet the challenges of the ground combat element has been key. We had a very well-synchronized aviation plan.”

Capt. Joseph Fry, an AH-1W Super Cobra pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, recently flew one such mission.

Fry witnessed a relatively heavy amount of combat, but said “the ground presence wasn’t really there yet.”

“Almost overnight, the valley turned into a string of Marine-controlled out-posts,” said Fry, adding that his recent mission was completely uneventful.

Photo by Staff Sgt. James R. RichardsonCoalition forces have launched a major offensive just south of the Kajaki Dam designed to eliminate one of the final insurgent footholds in southwestern Afghanistan.

Marine aviation key to major offensivecamp leatHeRnecK, afgHaniStan

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Story by Cpl. Rashaun X. James

Since taking the helm of air combat operations in March, 2nd Marine

Aircraft Wing (Forward) has supported more than 600 combat operations in southwestern Afghanistan.

Additionally, the wing’s Marines and sailors have carried out thousands of other missions, including troop transport, aerial resupply, close-air support and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel.

Maj. Gen. Glenn M. Walters, the commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), said he sees the Marine wing’s biggest accomplishment at the halfway point of its yearlong de-ployment as its ability to adapt to an ever-changing battle space.

“About 18 months ago, it was

all about Marjah, but now it’s more about Sangin and the fight up north,” said Walters.

“The war has shifted,” added Walters of operations in 2011. “We as aviators have to adjust what we are doing to better support the fight up there.”

In 2010, Marines and their coalition and Afghan partners car-ried out a joint offensive, Operation Moshtarak, to rout insurgents from Marjah in Helmand province’s Nad Ali District.

But recent changes center on providing more support in volatile Sangin District. These include establishing forward arming and refueling points to maximize close-air support, creating a detachment of attack helicopters to provide cover for air ambulances, and mov-ing Marine Corps unmanned aerial vehicles north to help in surveil-lance efforts.

“We have operationally shaped

the battle for what the conflict has presented us,” said Walters.

Walters said he feels these battlefield moves better support ground forces, both operationally and logistically. As the battle on the ground shifts, he said, so too must air support.

Partnership for Marines in Af-ghanistan isn’t limited to their own air and ground forces. Since the be-ginning of their increased presence in southwestern Afghanistan, U.S. Marines have not fought alone.

The Marines of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) live, work and fight side-by-side with coali-tion partners, particularly members of the British Armed Forces.

“Working with the coalition has been great,” said Walters. “There would be no way we could have done all the things we’ve done without them.”

Aircraft and support troops from the Royal Navy, Royal Air

Force and British Army also oper-ate in southwestern Afghanistan with the Joint Aviation Group.

“We are fully integrated into the MAW,” explained Royal Navy Lt. Cmdr. Gary Soar, the chief of staff of the British Joint Avia-tion Group. “The cooperation, interaction, and the way we share knowledge have definitely allowed us to learn from one another and adopt new methods,”

“Working with U.S. Marines has been a privilege,” Soar added. “They do a fantastic job and are a very flexible and proactive outfit. Every one of their squadrons has been an absolute pleasure to work with.”

The British and American forces also work daily with Afghan troops. While the Afghan National Army builds its aerial capabilities, they remain largely reliant on U.S. and coalition aircraft for operation-al, logistical and medical support.

“The Afghan forces are treated just like any of the other coalition forces,” said Soar. “We help them out where we can. If someone needs helicopter support we’ll supply it.”

Soar expressed that he looks forward to seeing continued integration between British and American air assets. He said the highlight of his tour so far has been the combined effort between U.S., British and Afghan forces to eliminate insurgent threats in the villages of Geresh district, Helmand province.

“All of the planning on the air side was a joint planning effort be-tween the British and Americans,” said Soar. “We used almost every Marine aviation platform and all of our U.K. aircraft for the initial infiltration. It was a big aviation assault that was a combined effort we would not have been able to do on our own.”

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Photo by Angela OsborneCpl. Justin Hall, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division embraces his fiancé after returning home to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., from a seven month deployment to Afghanistan.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Theresa SengMaster Sgt. Thomas Lutz, the supply operations officer with 2nd Marine Logistics Group, hugs his son upon his arrival to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 1, during a homecoming. Lutz spent nearly a year in Afghanistan supporting International Security Assistance Forces.


Photo by Cpl. Bruno J. BegoFamily members pose for a picture while waiting for the Marines and sailors of Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 2nd Marine Logistics Group to come home from Afghanistan during a homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Jan. 31. The Marines and sailors of CLB-6 were deployed to Helmand province, Afghanistan, in support of International Security Assistance Forces.

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Active Military Discount10% up to $500 on Parts, Service, & Stock RVs (Not Consignment RVs)

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Photo by Sgt. Rachael K. A. MooreA sailor with 2nd Marine Logistics Group hugs his children after getting off the bus during a homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 23. The Marines and sailors of the MLG were deployed for nearly a year to Helmand province, Afghanistan, in support of International Security Assistance Forces.

Photo by Sgt. Rachael K. A. MooreFamily members wait for the Marines and sailors of 2nd Marine Logistics Group to get off the bus during a homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Feb. 23. The Marines and sailors of the MLG were deployed for nearly a year to Helmand province, Afghanistan, in support of International Security Assistance Forces.

Protect yourDress Blues

& cover!Visit your nearest exchange for a coVer protector and dress blues garment bag.

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w.cleancapsltd.com

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Marines of II MEF! Time

to Dress Blue. Semper Fi!

Dress capProtective cover

easy transport & storage, Water

resistant

lightweight Garment Bageasy transport & storage


Teresa, Kody, Andrew, Isabella & Juliana Moore are so proud of SSgt. Moore. “He is our hero!”

WELCOME HOMEMan extremely loved by his family. Wife and children are ecstatic to have him home!

Moore Family News,2011

SSgt. Daniel J. Moore

Welcome HomeSSgt. Daniel J. Moore!

We are glad you are back safe.We love you!

Aunt Gale & Aunt Wanda

I love you for who you are and what you stand for. Welcome home, Honey!

I sure do love you...Pauline Chan-Wasicek

Welcome Back!

UniformsBluesAlphasCammiesCoversShoesRibbons and Medals

Custom FittingSame Day AlterationsName TapesDog Tags

USMC FamilyTees HoodiesNoveltiesStickers

Kid Uniforms

inSide JaCKSonville Mall

345 Jacksonville Mall Jacksonville, NC 28546 910.577.7411www.fostersmilitaryshop.com


Photo by Cpl. Bruno J. BegoFamily members pose for a picture while waiting for the Marines and sailors of Engineer Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 2nd Marine Logistics Group to come home from Afghanistan during a homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Jan. 31. The Marines and sailors of CLB-6 were deployed to Helmand province, Afghanistan, in support of International Security Assistance Forces.

Jacksonville1301 Gumbranch Rd • 910-455-8700

39 Village Dr • 910-353-2555401 N. Marine Blvd • 910-455-55002003 LeJeune Blvd • 910-577-4400

Havelock1015 E Main St. • 252-447-0297

New Bern1505 S Glenburnie Rd • 252-638-31003201 Dr ML King Blvd • 252-638-5400

2707 Hwy 70E (James City) • 252-637-0400Morehead City

3404 Arendell St • 252-726-7117

Welcome home! We salute you and your families for proudly serving our country.

We would be honored to serve you.


Welcome Home, II MEF. Thank you for your service.

Something ElseAntiques ~ Used Furniture

910.219.3130304 S. Marine BoulevardJacksonville, NC 28540

Mid-Century to Modern Architectural Salvage

Original Art by JustineLayaway AvailableWe Buy & Sell

The Most Eclectic & Unique Shop

Will Reopen Soon!

A1 CleanersName Tapes • Executive Shirt Service • Suede &

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1600Wilmington Hwy.

Jacksonville910-346-2712

327 Henderson Dr.Jacksonville

910-346-4900

Your #1 choice for: Formalwear, Uniforms

& Dry Cleaning!


Photo by Julie GaylerSgt. Aaron Jones, Border Advisor Team 1, II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, takes a close look at his daughter during his homecoming aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. Jones was deployed with II MHG to Afghanistan for seven months.

Welcome HomeJob Well Done

Bridal & Formal WearGowns Starting at

$50The Dressing room

17 South Second St (located inside Carolina Wedding)

Wilmington, NC (910) 233-8240www.dresswilmington.com

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911 W. Corbett Ave. Hwy. 24 • Swansboro911 W. Corbett Ave. Hwy. 24 • Swansboro

LAND FOR SALE 269 Bear Creek Rd

building lot ready now $49,00011+ Acres Queens Creek Rd

$199,500

HOMES FOR RENT GREAT HOMES AT AFFORDABLE RATES

4308 EMERALD DREMERALD ISLE

SOUNDFRONT HOME WITH OCEAN VIEWS. MANY CUSTOMIZED FEATURES IN 4BR HOME INCLUDING

ELEVATOR, INTERCOM, AND MUCH MORE.THIS IS A DEAL AT

$584,900!

Monica PiacitelliBroker Associate

910-650-6022Roger BurnsBroker Associate

910-389-7117Georgia Powell

Broker

910-389-1359

Candace BurnsBroker Associate

910-330-7934

Krissy GillumBroker Associate

910-581-9922

910-326-7222

173 PENINSULA MANOR RD3 BR, 2 BA CLOSE PUBLIC

WATER ACCESS$104900

831 WOOD CREEK DRHUBERT \ 3BR, 2BA

NEW CONSTRUCTION$219500

306 RIGGS RD / HUBERTEasy commute to Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, or

Swansboro. $139,900

409 HICKORY LANEHUBERT / 3 BR 2 BA

ONLY $49,900

711 DAVIS STJACKSONVILLE \ 4BR, 2 BA

VA VENDEE FINANCING AVAILABLE $78,900

500 ST. GEORGE COVEJACKSONVILLE / 3BR, 2BA

1 CAR GARAGE $98,900

1604 RACETRACK RDNEW BERN \ COUNTRY SETTINGVA vendee fi nancing available

$87,900

121 CREEKLINE DRBOGUE / 3BR, 2BA

Spacious w/ huge back deck, great setting between Lejeune & Cherry Point, Excellent Condition, 1 Acre

$121,500

109 MOORE’S FARM RDHavelock\home on large lot

with HOA access to Neuse Riv-er at Cypress Bay. $164,900

119 KING GEORGE CT JACKSONVILLE \ 2BR, 1.5BA

END UNIT TOWNHOME $62900

810 WOOD CREEK DRHUBERT \ 3BR 2BA

$211,000

320 CHICKORY CTSTELLA / 4BR, 2BA

Spacious home with de-tached garage. VA Vendee fi nancing available. $92,900

PENDING

PENDING

285 NORRIS RDSWANSBORO \ 3BR, 2BA

$900 MONTH

11 CHATTAWKA DRHAVELOCK \ 3BR, 1.5 BA

DEN, LARGE FENCED BACK YARD. GREAT LOCATION NEAR MCAS CHERRY POINT.

AVAILABLE NOW $950 MONTH

PENDING

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911 W. Corbett Ave. Hwy. 24 • Swansboro911 W. Corbett Ave. Hwy. 24 • Swansboro

LAND FOR SALE 269 Bear Creek Rd

building lot ready now $49,00011+ Acres Queens Creek Rd

$199,500

HOMES FOR RENT GREAT HOMES AT AFFORDABLE RATES

4308 EMERALD DREMERALD ISLE

SOUNDFRONT HOME WITH OCEAN VIEWS. MANY CUSTOMIZED FEATURES IN 4BR HOME INCLUDING

ELEVATOR, INTERCOM, AND MUCH MORE.THIS IS A DEAL AT

$584,900!

Monica PiacitelliBroker Associate

910-650-6022Roger BurnsBroker Associate

910-389-7117Georgia Powell

Broker

910-389-1359

Candace BurnsBroker Associate

910-330-7934

Krissy GillumBroker Associate

910-581-9922

910-326-7222

173 PENINSULA MANOR RD3 BR, 2 BA CLOSE PUBLIC

WATER ACCESS$104900

831 WOOD CREEK DRHUBERT \ 3BR, 2BA

NEW CONSTRUCTION$219500

306 RIGGS RD / HUBERTEasy commute to Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, or

Swansboro. $139,900

409 HICKORY LANEHUBERT / 3 BR 2 BA

ONLY $49,900

711 DAVIS STJACKSONVILLE \ 4BR, 2 BA

VA VENDEE FINANCING AVAILABLE $78,900

500 ST. GEORGE COVEJACKSONVILLE / 3BR, 2BA

1 CAR GARAGE $98,900

1604 RACETRACK RDNEW BERN \ COUNTRY SETTINGVA vendee fi nancing available

$87,900

121 CREEKLINE DRBOGUE / 3BR, 2BA

Spacious w/ huge back deck, great setting between Lejeune & Cherry Point, Excellent Condition, 1 Acre

$121,500

109 MOORE’S FARM RDHavelock\home on large lot

with HOA access to Neuse Riv-er at Cypress Bay. $164,900

119 KING GEORGE CT JACKSONVILLE \ 2BR, 1.5BA

END UNIT TOWNHOME $62900

810 WOOD CREEK DRHUBERT \ 3BR 2BA

$211,000

320 CHICKORY CTSTELLA / 4BR, 2BA

Spacious home with de-tached garage. VA Vendee fi nancing available. $92,900

PENDING

PENDING

285 NORRIS RDSWANSBORO \ 3BR, 2BA

$900 MONTH

11 CHATTAWKA DRHAVELOCK \ 3BR, 1.5 BA

DEN, LARGE FENCED BACK YARD. GREAT LOCATION NEAR MCAS CHERRY POINT.

AVAILABLE NOW $950 MONTH

PENDING

TIDEWATER APPLIANCE800 hwy. 70 East • New Bern, NC 28564 • (252) 637-4351

Job Well Done!


Photo by Lance Cpl. Glen SantyNavy Lt. Luke Quebedeaux, a physiologist with 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), holds his 2-year-old daughter, and 4-year-old son, for the first time in seven months, during the Marine Aerial Refueler Trans-port Squadron 252 homecoming, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Feb. 2. Luke’s spouse, said she couldn’t wait to tell her husband how much she loved him and how much she missed him while he was gone.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Glen SantyMaj. John Butler, the detachment commander of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 (Forward), hugs his 4-year-old son, after a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Feb. 2. Fifty Marines and sailors returned after a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan.

TheCorner Jeweler

Freedom Village Shopping CenterLocated by the new Wal-Mart(910) 219-9797

THECORNERJEWELER.COM l [email protected]

233-B Western Blvd. Suite 1Jacksonville, NC 28546

(910) 219-GOLD (4653

It’s all about you ...Without you there is no us ...

Welcome Home From The Corner Jeweler Family


acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL acadia terrain canyon Sierra 1500 Sierra 2500 Hd yukon yukon XL encLave LacroSSe regaL

The Professional Grade!With a BEAT or at least MEET Price Policy

against any buying service - in town or out of town!

TerrainAcadiaYukonSierra

400 Certified Pre OwnednO risk Buying rates @ 3.9%

OVer

910-455-1414 Hwy 17 - 1 Mile North of Walmart

Veiw at

moorebuick.com

(800) SHOP-GMC

welCOme BaCk!


Commanding Officer, Marine Corps Base,Camp LejeuneCol. Daniel J. Lecce

Marine Corps Installations East PublicAffairs OfficerNat Fahy

MCB Camp Lejeune Public Affairs Officer1st Lt. Nicole Fiedler

MCB Camp Lejeune Public Affairs Chief Staff Sgt. Kristin S. Bagley

II Marine Expeditionary Force Public AffairsStaff Sgt. Jeremy Ross

PublisherJames M. Connors

Managing EditorEna Sellers

Assistant Managing EditorAmy Binkley

Layout & Design Editors Sarah AndersonJessie Heath

Sales Director Robert Stone

Sales StaffTeresa MoorePauline ChanEmily KelleyEmily Hanke

Production DirectorHillary Bratton

Advertising Graphic DesignerJulia Dillon

Business ManagerRachel Picard

Distribution ManagerDennis Fusco

diSclaimer The Welcome Home Special Edition is published by Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C., a private enterprise not connected with the DoD or the U.S. Marine Corps. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of these products or services by the DoD, the U.S. Marine Corps, or Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C.Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. For distribution and advertising inquiries, call 347-9624.

Advertising Office1122 Henderson Dr., Jacksonville, N.C. 28540pHone: 347-9624FAx: 347-9628

70 | 2012 Welcome Home Special edition |

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atlantic marine corpS community Bill carone cHevrolet

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century 21 cHampion Betty daviScHeryl’S Boutique

cHeveux ScHool of Hair deSigncHico’S tire company

cHildcare netWorkcHili’S grill & Bar

cHoice real eState Jody daviSclean capS, ltdcmg marketing

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don WilliamSon niSSanemily Hankeena SellerSevolve, inc.

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gary’S auto SaleSglen meadegreat clipS

greater columBia marine foundation

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WELCOME HOME ii MEFfrom your friends at

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Welcome Home Marines 2012

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