Dust Storm on the Horizon

COMBAT LOGISTICS
REGIMENT-15 (FORWARD)

MAY 2010
 PAGE 2 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

COMMANDING OFFICER

To the Families and Friends of CLR-15 (FWD),

Most of us have been in Afghanistan for two months and I can proudly report that we are well on
our way to a memorable deployment. It is a honor to observe the Marines and Sailors of CLR-15 (FWD)
every day and they are doing amazing things – I feel like I have the best job and there is nothing better
than serving with such fine men and women. The sacrifices that they make to serve our Nation and their
unwavering commitment to mission accomplishment is inspiring. Without a doubt, I know they get
much of their strength from you. Although you are not physically here with us, your presence is always
felt.

One of life’s most enduring questions is ―what have you done for others?‖ This is also a key prin-
ciple of leadership, it is more about those we lead than anything we personally may do. As I watch the
Marines and Sailors of CLR-15 (FWD), I am continually reminded of this and they epitomize everything
this simple phrase implies. The camaraderie, the motivation, the professionalism, the discipline, the
work ethic within this team is unsurpassed. Through their efforts, they are making this deployment an
experience of a lifetime that they will share with their friends, family, and children some day. When
they reflect back on this time of their lives, they will have the fondest of memories and a sense of pride
that will remain with them forever.

Although we are getting into a nice rhythm, the unrelenting drive of the Marines and Sailors is
continually on display. There is no challenge too great and no task too small; our steady list of accom-
plishments grows daily and we are rapidly changing the landscape of Afghanistan and Camp Leather-
neck, along with the other outlying bases that are home to CLR-15 (FWD) personnel. We are rapidly
improving support to the Marine who is deployed at the most forward, remote, and austere out-
post. This is our focus and we will not rest until our return.

While there is much work to do, the Marines and Sailors do find time to relax and enjoy them-
selves. It is important for them to take a break to remain physically and mentally sharp. Your support
is a key component of this – if you could only see their faces when they receive a package or letter, you
would feel good. The thoughts of home, the memories of special times, and the anticipation of our re-
turn help us through the difficult separation from you. You all are such incredible people and we could
not be successful without you. Thank you for your service and unwavering support to the Marines and
Sailors of CLR-15 (FWD). We miss you all!

Semper Fi,

K. J. STEWART
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 3

SERGEANT MAJOR
Families and Friends of CLR-15 (FWD),

The majority of our Marines and Sailors have been in country for almost 60 days and they are doing great things
all over Afghanistan. The CO and I get out weekly to visit our Marines and Sailors in every FOB across the coun-
try and it is amazing to see the things they are accomplishing. In only two months they have become a cohesive
unit and together they accomplish any and all tasks that they are given. I am truly blessed to be their SgtMaj and
I am proud to see their desire and commitment they have on a daily basis in taking care of the Marines and Sail-
ors they support in the fight.

Without a cohesive unit across the board our seven companies could not accomplish the commanders intent in a
timely manner. All of the companies have settled into a nice battle rhythm and they support each other on a
daily basis without question no matter what the assignment. They are fixing broken vehicles, supplying the for-
ward Marines, securing convoys and driving long hours to get every mission completed on time in all condi-
tions. Our work tempo has increased with the number of assignments we have been given on a weekly basis,
but that has not stopped our companies from getting things accomplished. Even with the heat starting to in-
crease to 100 degrees plus daily we are doing our best to stay cool, but unfortunately most of our assignments
call for our Marines and Sailors to work outside every day. The 100 days of wind is also upon us and we have al-
ready had a couple of nice sized dust storms around the country. When the dust storm comes the sky turns or-
ange and everything gets covered in sand and it takes hours to clean up all of the work and living areas. No mat-
ter how hot it gets or how sandy the conditions become our Marines and Sailors continue to push forward to ac-
complish the mission and that is what makes them a great team of leaders across the board.

Even though we have gotten off to a tremendous start and we have accomplished a lot of things in just a short
time, there is still a lot of work to do around the country. Our focus is to supply the most forward Marine and
make sure that they have everything they need to win the fight and our Marines are making sure that they have
it. We are being tasked with greater assignments everyday and we will accomplish them without question be-
cause our Marines and Sailors of CLR-15 (FWD) will not let each other down. They are without a doubt some of
the finest Marines and Sailors that I have had the pleasure to serve with throughout my career.

Most of us are very lucky to be on Camp Leatherneck because we have the nice chow halls, showers, work
spaces, living spaces and other little things to make this place feel like home for seven months. We do have
some Marines and Sailors at FOBs that aren’t as lucky as we are to have all the amenities to make the deployment
a little easier every day when they aren’t working. Mail is the biggest morale booster that they can get from
home and no matter how many times the CO and I visit or talk to our Marines and Sailors there is nothing like a
letter or package from a loved one. When we hand out mail they immediately forget about the long hours, heat,
wind, sand and they light up like it was Christmas day. Your Marines and Sailors are working very hard to make
you proud and it is one of the greatest things to see what they do every day out here to make you safe at
home. Even though we are thousands of miles away from you at home we feel you in our hearts and that is what
keeps us going. We will keep you in our prayers and God Bless.

Semper Fi,

SgtMaj J.S. Miller

 PAGE 4 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

HEADQUARTERS &
SERVICE COMPANY

Company Commanders’s Corner:

To the Family & Friends of CLR-15 (FWD),
The Marines and Sailors of H&S continue to do great things. The
packages and letters keep flowing from home and we are pushing
forward making sure those Marines and Sailors on the front lines
are getting the support they deserve.

Semper Fidelis! 1stLt Russell

1stSgt’s Two Cents:

Two Month Down! The Marines and Sailors are still doing amazing stuff.
Several have already been recognized and awarded for their perform-
ance. We planned and hosted a BBQ Social for all the Staff & Officers of
CLR-15 (FWD), where the leaders had a chance to get together and
relax a little.

Semper Fi & God Bless, 1stSgt McEvoy

Talent Show
H&S had 2 contestants
performed in the Left: SSgt Futrell is a
talent show on a nice natural stand up
Saturday evening here comedian.
on Camp Leatherneck.

They were very enter-

taining and boosted
the moral for all that
were present. You
would have been very
Right: LCpl
proud of them. The Tal-
Ramirez sang
ent Show was a huge
her heart out for
success.
the crowd.
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 5

Female Engagement Team

The I MEF (FWD) Female Engagement Team (FET) conducted an Augment FET Training
Course (10-2) from 18-26 Apr. This course serves to train female military personnel to aug-
ment FET missions in support of counter insurgency operations throughout Regional Com-
mand South. H&S Company had three females participate and successfully complete this train-
ing.

―The nine days of training was fast paced and draining, but I feel more than confident that we
all walked away trained and willing to be called upon for
any mission in Helmand province.‖ - Sgt Schwartz

―FET is here to help the population, to gain the trust, to let them know we are here to help and
to tell them they can get help without being threatened. Basically, to let them know they don’t
have to live their life in fear. I also learned different procedures to follow in different situations
such as combat aid, Call For Fire, and civil affairs. It was good training. Helping people is in my
genes. FET is my kind of thing. YUTTTT!!‖ –LCpl Kalkstein

From Left: Sgt Schwartz, 1stSgt McEvoy, LCpl Kalkstein,

1stLt Russell, LCpl Valencia, and GySgt Sanchez.
 PAGE 6 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

MAINTENANCE COMPANY
This past month has been a busy, but very productive time for the Marines of Maintenance Company. As
the weather continues to get hotter, the Marines continue to perform extremely well. It is an absolute
honor and pleasure to work with each Marine. To help you get to know the Marines, we are going to high-
light two platoons each month. This month, Ordnance/General Support Maintenance and the Communica-
tions Electronics Maintenance platoons are in the spotlight. Finally, thank you so much for your continued
support. We could not continue the fight without the support of our families.

Ordnance/GSM Platoon
M88A2 RECOVERY SECTION
The M88A2 Tank Recovery section has been busy over the last three weeks. The crew has been
called to repeatedly to recover several items of heavy equipment and multiple vehicles ranging
from 38,000lbs to 50,000lbs, which has kept them very busy. Of note, Cpl Avila has been per-
forming duties well outside the norm in his capacity as SSgt Ray’s right hand and resident duty
expert displaying the qualities that exemplify the professionalism and ―can do‖ attitude that is the
hallmark of the Marine NCO. Also Cpl Cook, LCpl McNeese and LCpl Stineman have been hard
at work creating a standard operating procedure binder to provide a guideline for operating as
an M88A2 recovery man.

OPTICS/SMALL ARMS
Following in-depth research, the Marines of the Optics shops were able to streamline the requisi-
tion process for Night Vision parts. Their superb skills have allowed the section to complete re-
pairs on equipment that has been in the shop before CLR-15 (FWD) arrived. LCpl Stevens made
the biggest impact this period and saved upwards of 25 man-hours with his intricate knowledge
of system software. He created a database for all shop sections in the platoon. From which multi-
ple spreadsheets can be integrated and data from more than 3000
pages can be cross-referenced. Great job, LCpl Stevens! Addition-
ally, the Infantry weapons section has been busy this past month.
The Marines have sent and received over 350 pieces of calibrated
gages to support the Forward Units; all of which have been coordi-
nated by Lance Corporal Salamone. This month LCpl Hansen volun-
teered for the Marine Corps’ Female Engagement Team (FET) and
successfully completed her initial training. The FET team’s primary
mission is to provide interaction between the International Assis-
tance Security Force and the female population of Afghanistan. LCpl
Hansen is a valuable asset to this program and to the ORD/GSM Pla-
toon.
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 7

ARTILLERY
Over the past month the artillery section has achieved tremendous results. Their hard work and
dedication has allowed them to complete annual inspections on nine M777 Howitzers. They sec-
tion has also performed Limited Technical Inspections on six M77 Howitzers and in the process,
completed software updates and required repairs. Corporal Fullmer and Lance Corporal
McLean were able to assist forward units in the annual inspections of three M777 Howitzers re-
sulting in direct support to fire missions. Their hard work is evident in the daily functions of the
artillery section.

GENERAL SUPPORT
The GSM Platoon has successfully got the
Engine Dyno, AGRS (Alternator, Generator,
Regulator, Starter) test machine, and the
AVM2 (fuel pump test stand) operational.
The Marines have also ordered and invento-
ried all the parts and tools that will be used
to repair our gear. Cpl Burkett led the
charge on preparing 6 LAV’s for WIR and
LCpl Kautz used a little creative ingenuity to
repair the starter that got the Engine Dyno
running for the GSM shop.

Communications Electronics Maintenance Platoon

WOW, it’s May already? Time has been moving along and all the Marines of Communica-
tions Electronics Maintenance (CEM) Platoon have been performing exceptionally well. Over
the past two months we have definitely grown much closer together as a unit. We continue to
work long hard days, and have settled into our daily routine. Many of the maintenance proc-
esses and procedures have been revised, and the Marines are accomplishing more work now
than when we first got on deck here. The Marines were actually able to crank out over 500
pieces of equipment this month.
This month we will spotlight one of the CEM platoon Marines, Sergeant Ryan Albright,
a reservist from Indiana. In the civilian world, Ryan is a
diesel mechanic for Penske Trucking and he lives in Leba-
non, Indiana with his wife Carrie. He unselfishly volun-
teered for this deployment and has done an outstanding
job leading and developing Marines. Filling the Assistant
Data, Crypto, and Circuit Card Repair (DCCCR) Section
Chief billet, Sergeant Albright is responsible for running
the DCCCR section, and ensuring that all equipment in-
ducted into the section is repaired and returned in a timely
manner.
 PAGE 8 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010
Maintenance Company Continued

Additionally, Sergeant Albright has found the time to assist other sections throughout the
Company by helping fix generators and even some refrigerators. He has also been sent
out to COB Dwyer to assist the small CEM Intermediate Maintenance Attachment there with
refining maintenance and supply procedures. The list of Sergeant Albright’s contributions
to the Platoon and Company goes on and on. His hard work and dedication is commend-
able and he is setting the standard for the Marines of CEM to emulate.

Communications Electronics Maintenance Platoon would like to again thank everyone

back home for their love and support. The Marines of CEM would like to also give all Moth-
ers a belated ―Happy Mother’s Day‖. We have hit the two month mark and the days keep
ticking on by. We will be home before you know it.

Significant Accomplishments- Cpl Mains was the CEM platoon nomination for Meritorious
Sergeant for March. Sgt Albright and LCpl Palmer were the CEM platoon nomination for
Non-Commissioned Officer and Marine of the Quarter.
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 9

SUPPLY COMPANY
From the Company Commander
Hello All,

Has it been two months already? Hardly seems like it. We’re beginning to see a little of
what Afghanistan can throw at us, literally. We experienced a pretty significant sand storm
not too long ago. It lasted about two hours and everything was saturated with sand. Once it
blew over the night crew was right back to work and pushing hard. The next day was spent
cleaning sand out of just about everywhere you can think of. The Marines did it with the en-
thusiasm and hard work they have put towards everything they do out here. I continue to be
impressed by the energy and dedication each and every one of the Marines has displayed
so far. I used to think that it was the novelty of the deployment and being in Afghanistan.
Now I think they were just warming up and the best is yet to come. Thanks again for you sup-
port and everything you do for us. We could not do it without you.

Best Regards,
Maj Doug Burke

Left: Promotions at FOB Dwyer.

Right: Marines of the IIP.

 PAGE 10 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010
Supply Company Continued

Company First Sergeant

Family and Friends,

We are on our second month deployed and the momentum of the Supply Company
persists to build. We continue to hear great things from leadership throughout the Marine
Expeditionary Force about the noticeable improvement in logistics support and the hard
work accomplished by your Marines and Sailors. We knew we would eventually hear this, in
fact it was a goal of ours, but it came much sooner than expected. We’d like to set our goals
higher yet again but we have a major evolution ahead of us. Future plans call for the Supply
Management Unit, the hub of this company, to make a move across the camp to a larger
area. Let me tell you, there is a bunch of equipment to move, and I haven’t seen not one Ry-
der truck. The Storage and MMDC Platoons will be impacted the most during this move;
however we are all going to have our hands full. While this move will involve much work, in
the long run it will provide better work conditions for us. Maybe this facility will protect us
from the occasional sand storm or dirt devil which shows up at a moment’s notice and from
out of nowhere. Since our Marines and Sailors will have a place to hide from these sand
storms, the military meteorologists may be forced to learn how to send out an advisory that
is somewhat timely and accurate. Our new facility or an accurate weather prediction; which
one will occur first? I can’t predict. I would think it is hard to miss a two and a half hour sand
storm on radar that can see a golf ball at 10 miles! Since I last wrote, during the months of
April and May; eighteen of our Marines have been promoted. Additionally, many Marines
and Sailors have competed at meritorious promotion boards and for Marine and Sailor of the
Quarter, lending creditability to the caliber of individual which fills our ranks. Additionally,
there were some personal milestones which were achieved. Four babies were born this
month to members of the Company! Congratulations to the families of Sergeants Vila and
Cuellar, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Rosales and Lance Corporal Juarez. Job well done
by all!
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 11
Supply Company Continued

Fiscal:
The Marines of the Supply Management Unit (SMU) Fiscal Office send their greetings to all of the
families back home. We arrived in Afghanistan in mid-March and are now two months deep into a seven
month long deployment, set to arrive back in Camp Pendleton this fall. The Fiscal Office is broken down
into two smaller work sections: Financial Management and the Commercial Item Support Program
(CISP).
Marines working in the Fiscal Office are accounting analysts responsible for our financial man-
agement and the daily reconciliation of over $240 million dollars in Overseas Contingency Operations
(OCO) funds which has been spent to date. These funds have been utilized to purchase everything from
kitchen utensils to tank repair engines. Upon arrival in March, the Marines immediately began sifting
through years of unorganized documents and established a filing system in order to ensure that the com-
mand could prove that it had received millions of dollars worth of medical supplies. Although the work
can be tedious at times, it is a critical element of ensuring that Congress and taxpayers have confidence
in the financial stewardship of the Marine Corps in Afghanistan.
The Government-wide Commercial Purchase Card Program (GCPC) section conducts business 24 hours
per day, 7 days per week, in order to provide essential logistics support to all Marine Corps units in Af-
ghanistan. They do this by leveraging commercial sources of supply for mission critical requirements.
Due to the time difference between Afghanistan and the United States, the Marines in the section work
overnight so that they can communicate with businesses and coordinate the purchase, shipment and de-
livery of the gear. Working during the hottest parts of the afternoon with temperatures reaching over 100
degrees, Marines receive gear ordered by the cardholders, inventory every piece, prepare paperwork,
notify the requesting unit that gear has arrived, and issue it to command representatives. The GCPC sec-
tion has proven to play a critical role in the overall mission accomplishment of not just the SMU, but the
entire I Marine Expeditionary Force ( I MEF).
Things are going well at Camp Leatherneck. It is a little warm out during the day (100-110 de-
grees!), there is an occasional sandstorm to deal with, and the work is demanding, but spirits are high.
The Marines are focused on elevating expectations and not slowing down. This is the first deployment
for many of our junior Marines; however,
this is not preventing them from setting
the bar at the highest level for their coun-
terparts who will be replacing them in the
fall. Everything aboard the camp is within
walking distance, the laundry services are
convenient and the chow halls are Camp
Leatherneck’s greatest amenities. The
food is definitely better than MRE’s. Last-
ing friendships have been developed that
help make the time go by quickly until
everyone returns home to their loved
ones.

Thank you for all your support from the

Marines of SMU Fiscal.
 PAGE 12 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010
Supply Company Continued

Storage:
During these first two months of the 10-1 deployment, the Storage Platoon has been busy break-
ing new ground and getting things set up to properly execute our mission. Since our arrival, every Ma-
rine has played a vital role in implementing various supply and logistics initiatives. Here recently, they
all participated in a major clean up of our inventory; one carrying over 18,000 different National Stock
Number’s valued more than $60 million dollars. And in just over two months, the Storage Platoon has
issued more than 22,000 material release orders and receipted for over 21,000 document numbers.
Geographically separated, the Marines from Storage Platoon have operated from two separate
camps to provide critical supply support to the deployed forces of I Marine Expeditionary Force
throughout Afghanistan’s Helmand Province. These supplies have been transported by air and ground
by both military and civilian convoys. Every Marine in Storage Platoon completed a Battle Sight Zero
(BZO) small arms live fire range in addition to a simulated, yet realistic course on Improvised Explosive
Devices (IED). Marines have been working 24 hours a day seven days a week, accomplishing the mis-
sion with high morale and motivation.
Every Marine in Storage Platoon has worked extremely hard this deployment, and accomplished
a great deal so far, well ahead of schedule. The Marines in Storage continue to represent themselves in
an exceptional manner and a few had the privilege to compete at the Supply Company Marine of the
Quarter Board. The Receiving Section’s, Lance Corporal Karim, took top honors despite keen competi-
tion and is now Supply Company’s 2nd Quarter FY10 Marine of the Quarter. Additionally, LCpl Hernan-
dez of Shipping and LCpl Alfred of D-Lot finished first and second respectively at the Supply Company
Meritorious Corporal Board and will have to opportunity to compete at the Regimental level for a meri-
torious promotion to Corporal. Storage is currently in preparations for the relocation. Our current loca-
tion is relatively small when compared to the amount of gear we are managing. Our new site is double
the size. We are all very excited for this opportunity; it will be much hard work and long hours. The Ma-
rines are very excited for the challenge as they too see the potential benefits. This definitely will help
us alleviate the congestion of our gear and make it easier for us to maintain our accuracy. All of the Ma-
rines from Storage definitely look forward to seeing you soon upon our return home to California this
fall. See you soon!
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 13

GENERAL SUPPORT MOTOR

TRANSPORT COMPANY

Company Commander

To All,

The Marines are doing GREAT things. I cannot convey how impressed I am by the
work ethic and diversity of skills that GSMT Company Marines possess, but I can
say that I am frequently surprised and awe struck by what the Marines can do. As
we roll through the month of May, the tempo of operations has picked up and the
Marines have responded in kind. Frankly, I think that they feel like they’re not be-
ing pushed hard enough, want to do more and are not really happy unless they’re
on the road resupplying our fellow Marines throughout the Helmand Prov-
ince. That’s the spirit that makes GSMT Company, CLR-15 (FWD) and our Marine
Corps the great organizations that they are. We look forward constantly to your
emails, letters and care packages, and thank you for your continued love, prayers
and support.
Semper Fi!
Captain Hines
 PAGE 14 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010
GSMT Company Continued

Company First Sergeant

Hello Family and Friends!

General Support Motor Transport Company is now conducting Motor Trans-

port Operations. It is what our Marines came over to Afghanistan to do and
they are doing it very well! It is a busy pace but our Marines are proving to be
up for the challenges. Our Marines work through the weekends seven days
week and holidays included. They are motivated and they take pride in serv-
ing their Country and Corps. As we head into the summer months our focus
will be to accomplish our many missions and do it safely with strong consid-
eration for the upcoming heat that the summer months will bring. We appreci-
ate your continued support and the many letters and packages received; mail
and packages are always a motivator!!
Semper Fidelis,
1stSgt Miller
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 15
LCpl Lionel Smith
Winner of the 1st Annual Camp Leatherneck Talent Show
For the Following Rap

Blood stains his trousers, sweat smears his brow

And all he can think is "How'd I End up here, now?"
But only for a moment, he's gotta stay focused
Cuz enemies surround him and odds are looking hopeless
He picks up his rifle, and loads a magazine
Then ducks down for cover while surveying the scene
His resolve never falters, when other mens wean
Cuz he's more than a man, he's a Marine

I will NOT fade quietly into the night

If it's my time to go, I'm goin' out with a fight
I do it all for my country, for them stars and them stripes
From the first fog of dusk.. 'till the dawns early light
I will NOT fade quietly into the night
'Till the whole world's at peace, and there's no one to fight
But until that day when I can light cigars,
I'm gonna BRAWL for my stripes 'n stars

This Marine life is the life for me

All the way from the Halls of Montezuma… To the Shores of Tripoli
To the flag raising on Iwo Jima
I am the vengeance of the prisoners of war and the missing in action
And no foe can stop me
From Musa Qaleh, Now Zad and even Dwyer
Plus I've got Rocky skills,
And a thousand more like me, so if I fall, my spirit still cannot be killed
I hold the soul of Old Glory

We will NOT fade quietly into the night

If it's our time to go, we're goin' out with a fight
We do it all for our country, for them stars and them stripes
From the first fog of dusk.. 'till the dawns early light
I will NOT fade quietly into the night
'Till the whole world's at peace, and there's no one to fight
But until that day when I can light cigars,
I'm gonna BRAWL for my stripes 'n stars

I pray for peace and train for war

Protect my country from shore to shore
Bred to fight and trained to kill
Never said die and never will
So I..
Pray for peace and train for war
And I..
Protect my country from shore to shore
I was..
Bred to fight and trained to kill
And I've..
Never said die and NEVER will
 PAGE 16 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

SECURITY COMPANY
From the Company Commander: Keep on Movin’
Your Marines and Sailors in Security Company have kept on moving, taking the charge in providing secu-
rity to elements of CLR-15 (FWD) and supporting external units as needed. They performed superbly in
partnering with an Afghan National Army Battalion for their movement East of Kandahar, as well as provid-
ing support to our sister Units in the Area of Operations. Whether its routine Combat Logistical Patrols, or
Quick Recovery Missions, Marines of Security Company take pride in providing the best security possi-
ble. They also take pride in providing security to our senior leaders as they traverse the battlefield to
gain first hand assessments of logistical support requirements to the outlying Forward Operating Bases
and Combat Outposts. This has been an eye opening experience for a lot of our Marines as they have
gained first hand appreciation of the entire area of operations.

During the Month of April we celebrated Easter with a wonderful feast at the Chow Hall. Although there
were no egg hunts, the steak and lobster did trick for most of the Marines. It is hard to believe that it has
already been over 60 days, and although your Marines miss home, they are always happy to receive let-
ters and packages. Marines have also figured out the best times to use the Morale, Welfare, and Recrea-
tion tent to make phone calls home and to update their Facebook pages on the internet. Some of them
have been granted access to the free wi-fi that is available around the base. The only complaint is that it is
slow.

I continue to be impressed across the board with the quality of Marines we have in security company.
They are very intelligent, hard working, and have demonstrated courage throughout our deployment so
far. They are eager and they are hungry to support the mission wherever needed.

Lastly I would like to once again thank you all our families for your endless support to us—your United
States Marines.

Semper Fi,

Capt Carper
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 17

From the First Sergeant CONGRATULATIONS

Well, here we are in the month of April and ―time just Cpl Sean T. Johnson
keeps on ticking!‖ Before you know it your Marines Cpl Justin T. Cate
and Sailors will be back on that parade deck looking
in the smiling faces of all you our families. I can see Both were recipients of Certificates of Commen-
huge hugs and warming kisses in conjunction with dation for outstanding performance of duties.
tears of joy and laughter.

Yes this is a reality, and as long as you keep the Cpl Daniel F. Wysocki
aforementioned thought in the forefront of your LCpl Colton L. Ringsaylor
minds, you will be able to deal with all the emotions LCpl Heather J. Nejame
and feelings of anxiety brought on by separation.
One person can look at a glass and say it is half way All were recipients of Meritorious Mast for distin-
empty and be upset, yet another can look at the same guishing themselves above their peers in the
glass and say it is half way full and be full of joy. It is performance of their duties, thus bringing a great
how you look at a thing that’s going to affect you the spot light for the company.
most. I say always look for the positives and put your
mind there and focus.
LCpl Michael R. Douglass
As for this deployment, we have been busy, but as Was promoted to the rank of LCpl and was instru-
always, God has been faithful and has allowed for mental in taking on the secondary duty of guard-
your Marines and Sailors to accomplish every mission ing the base at an entry control point, keeping all
and task set before them unharmed. For that very fact of us safe and protected.
we always thank him and those of you who are back
home praying for us.

We also thank you for the mail that continues to come

in; it is great seeing the bus pull up full of your ―care
package cargo!‖ Do not let up, keep sending it, it
really enforces our focus on the mission and builds
morale. If someone can send a box of Shade and
cool air that will really help! It gets hot out here!

In Conclusion, I again want to thank you all for keep-

ing the home front in order.
.
God Bless,
GySgt Alvin T. Dupree
 PAGE 18 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

BRAVO SURGICAL COMPANY

CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 19
 PAGE 20 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010

CHARLIE SURGICAL COMPANY

ADVON Party Lays Down Blueprint for Charlie Mission in Afghanistan
The Charlie Surgical Company of 1st Medical Battalion, after three months of rigorous pre-
deployment training, has finally begun its seven month journey in the Middle East. The Com-
pany’s fluid transition from the Home Front to the Front Lines would not have been made possible
if it wasn’t for the tedious strategic planning and sleepless nights put forth prior to the Company’s
arrival in country by the ADVON Party (Advanced Party).
The ADVON Party, which included Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Brendon Drew and Hospital
Corpsman Chief Petty Officer (HMC) Barry Floyd, arrived in Afghanistan in early March to set the
operational tone for the Surgical Company stationed out of Camp Pendleton. The dedication these
gentlemen put forth into planning for the company’s arrival in the Middle East included countless
meetings, strategic planning, travel coordination, and maintaining overall operational readiness
for the company. LCDR Drew, when asked to explain the specific mission of the ADVON party, ex-
plained: ―Our mission is to coordinate company turnover, establish a billeting plan at four differ-
ent bases, and orient arriving personnel to quality of life and daily battle rhythm.‖ The mission
wasn’t all work however: ‖We were fortunate enough to be invited to a dinner hosted by the Af-
ghan National Army (ANA) at their camp site in Marjeh. Part of what made the dinner so interest-
ing was the fact that the members of the ANA battalion leadership were all previously involved in
the Northern Alliance which led to them reminiscing about interesting war stories and detailed
memories of intense battles with the Taliban.‖
The ADVON party mission concluded after giving a brief to arriving personnel that included a
plethora of pictures and very useful information through means of PowerPoint. LCDR Drew parted
with the following: ―With the planning and organization that Chief Floyd put into making this de-
ployment a successful one for Charlie, I feel that great results are going to follow. After almost two
weeks of working together as a company here in Afghanistan, I can already tell you that the enthu-
siasm of the personnel has dramatically increased in comparison to what it was in garrison. This is
a great sign for what is to come for us.‖ Stand By...

Left: LTJG Loran (standing), HM1 Sotto (lying down)

and HM2 Moore conduct chest tube training at
Payne.

Right: HMC Helt (Charlie Surgical) and

HMC Crane (4th LAR) breaking bread
together.
 CLR-15 (FWD) MAY 2010 PAGE 21

Charlie Co. Completes Successful “Rip "of Duties with Alpha Co.
Just like a 400 meter track relay, Alpha Surgical Company has ran their leg of the race and has
made a clean exchange of the baton to Charlie Company. In early May, Charlie Co. assumed the
duties from Alpha Company of providing for a Level II Echelon of medical care in the Helmand
Province of Southern Afghanistan. The transition process of one unit assuming duties from another,
in military terms, is known as a Relief-in-Place, colloquially known as ―The Rip‖ or ―Ripping.‖ For
Charlie personnel assigned to Camp Dwyer, the transition consisted of real-time, real-life patient
care. Unpacking bags, navigating the base, and setting up berthing spaces was second priority
considering the fact patient flow ignited im-
mediately upon arrival. When asked how he
felt the ripping process from Alpha to Char-
lie went and what he expected of Charlie,
Commanding Officer of Alpha Surgical Com-
pany, Captain Daniel Noltkamper replied: ―I
expect that Charlie will do fine out here, I
think they received a very good turnover
and got to see a lot of patients that will cover
the game they are going to see out here.

Left: Officers from Charlie Surgical enjoy cigars and

their ―near beers‖ at Camp Leatherneck, prior to
moving down to FOB Dwyer.
 Greetings from the Chaplain
Here is a famous story from the Zen tradition: Two monks, an elder and a young
disciple, were traveling across China to return to their monastery. On the way,
they came to a river; the only way across was to ford through a shallow area. The
other travelers were able to get across with little difficulty. However, there was a
young and beautiful woman in tears because she was afraid of the water. She did
not dare to cross, but everyone ignored her pleas for help. The elder monk no-
ticed her distress and said to her, ―Do not worry - I can carry you across the river.‖
He did so, and having reached the other shore, the young woman thanked the
monk and went on her way.

The younger monk was shocked. It was forbidden for monks to look directly at
women, much less touch them and carry them in one’s arms! The two monks con-
tinued on their journey back to their monastery. The younger monk thought about
what happened obsessively, unable to understand why his respected teacher
would have done such a thing. When they reached their destination, the young
man finally blurted out, ―Venerable Master, why did you do such a thing as to
carry that woman?‖ The elder monk looked at the younger one in surprise and re-
plied, ―That woman? I put her down a long time ago. Are you still carrying her?‖
This story is often used as a teaching on clinging to unnecessary things, or attach-
ments. The elder monk had overcome attachments. He only saw a human being in
trouble and helped her, so there was no temptation for him. The younger monk,
not yet as wise, only could see the attachment: woman=bad!

Have you ever read about a ―hoarder,‖ a person who obsessively collects stuff and
refuses to throw anything away? On one hand, it’s good to reuse and not waste
things, but at the other extreme garbage and other useless things are kept. Mental
―hoarding‖ can be like this. All of us have both pleasant and unpleasant memo-
ries. It is when we become excessively attached to unpleasant memories that it
becomes a problem: feelings of guilt, memories of a marriage or relationship
gone bad, or memories of disappointment or even violence. Memories of deploy-
ment also can be happy or painful. We like our good memories, but our unhappy
ones can torment us years, even decades later after the event has ceased to mat-
ter.

For a Zen Master, it’s easy to simply ―put down‖ the attachment and walk away.
For ordinary people, it is much harder to give up our attachments. They have be-
come a part of us, and letting go can be as difficult as trying to let go of a physical
part of us, like an arm or leg. But if an arm o a leg is damaged or diseased beyond
healing, we can only survive by removing it. Our negative attachments are the
same – to let go, to forgive – is sometimes the best p.ath to follow Then, they can
be transformed and create no further pain; we may even use the experience to
help others overcome their similar situations.
Namaste! (Peace!)
MAY PROMOTIONS New Arrivals to the CLR-15 (FWD) Family

Charlie Surgical Company

First Lieutenant Taylor Borut
Alexandra Cole (LT Jeffrey and Jenny Borut)
Charles Robinson
Headquarters and Service Company
Abigail Harris
Master Sergeant (Sgt William and Marissa Harris)
Veronica Munoz
Supply Company
Jasmine Rosales
Sergeant (HM2 Rodolfo and Rosa Rosales)
Ashley Schwartz
Juanita Juarez
(LCpl Luis and Adrianna Juarez)
Corporal
Edward Baltazargarcia Motor Transport Company

Tylor Davis Meagon Robinson

Joshua Eilhardt (1stLt Charles and Gwendolyn Robinson)
Aleksandra Etter
Konnor Tubb
Eric Garcia (Cpl Joseph and Brittany Tubb)
Gina Glowickiruiz
Darren Gurtler Orlando Pinosehwerert
(Cpl Felix and Yaiselin Pinosehwerert)
Bryan McWilliams
Ray Peek Christopher Forgues, Jr.
Daniel Reynero (LCpl Christopher and Mary Forgues)

Tony Rush
Corey Smith

Lance Corporal
Joshua Anderson
Michael Belanger, Jr.
Michael Douglass
Timothy Foley
Jarrett Harrison
William Kolb
Jarod Monette
James Morrison, Jr.
Andrew Thomas
Santino Wilson
 AWARDS
Congratulations to the following Marines for their exceptional performance:

Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal

Cpl Diggins; Maintenance Company
LCpl Grajales; Maintenance Company

Certificate of Commendation
Sgt Salazar, Headquarters and Service Company
Cpl Cate; Security Company
Cpl Johnson, Sean; Security Company

Meritorious Mast
Cpl Wysocki; Security Company
LCpl Kalkstein; Headquarters and Service Company
LCpl Nejame; Security Company
LCpl Ringsaylor; Security Company
LCpl Rocha; Headquarters and Service Company