82nd year, No. 16
www.quantico.marines.mil
email: qpublicaffairs@gmail.com
December 7, 2017
BASE NEWS
MARK WAHLBERG VISITS QUANTICO
Federal Benefits Open Season The Federal Benefits Open Season continues through Dec. 11. During the open season period, employees can take the following actions for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS): • Enroll, change or cancel an existing enrollment in a health, vision and/or dental plan, • Enroll in a flexible spend account. Stay up to date on open season by accessing the Office of Civilian Human Resources portal at https://portal.secnav.navy.mil/orgs/MRA/DONHR/ Benefits/Pages/Benefits_Open_Season.aspx
Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism
Photo by Quantico Office of Communication
Actor/singer Mark Wahlberg visited the Quantico Marine Corps Exchange recently to talk about physical fitness performance and hang out with Marines and civilians aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. Although he was only here for an hour, he made a big impact by posing for photos and visiting with kids. Wahlberg has even delved into the life of a Marine in the movie “Shooter” where he plays a veteran Marine sniper who is called back into service to help prevent an assassination, but instead gets framed for it when it inevitably occurs.
Marines honor their own during first World War II Battle of Tarawa Run Jeremy Beale Staff Writer
More than 425 Marines gathered outside of Headquarters and Service Battalion (H&S Bn.) at Yale Hall on Nov. 20 to conduct a three-mile memorial run in honor of the 74th anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa. Marines ran to honor the extraordinary accomplishments, heroism, sacrifice and success of the World War II Marines who stormed the shores of Betio in the Tarawa Atoll in the three day campaign against Axis forces, which occurred Nov. 20-23, 1943. Headquarters and Service Battalion Commander Col. John Atkinson told the story of 18,000 Marines who did what millions could not. Of the 18,000 United States troops sent to the Battle of Tarawa, more than 1,700 troops died, approximately 1,000 of which were Marines. In addition to those killed, more than 2,000 were wounded.
Continued on Page 2
Photo by Jeremy Beale
Headquarters and Service Battalion Commanding Officer Col. John Atkinson and Sgt. Major Thomas Johnson did not stop running until every Marine crossed the threshold of Yale Hall.
Everyone is welcome to discuss learning the basics of SGI Buddhism on Dec. 9, 2 – 3 p.m at the Chapel Annex, 3019 Embry Loop. For more information please call 703-784-2518
Chapel Movie Night All are welcome to attend the showing of “Nestor the Christmas Donkey” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” at the Quantico Chapel Annex on Dec. 15 at 6 p.m.
Belleau Wood Leadership & PME Contest Headquarters and Service Battalion, in conjunction with Marine Corps Association Foundation offers, as part of the Commander ’s Professional Military Education program, an opportunity to travel to Belleau Wood, France for the 100th year commemoration of the Battle of Belleau Wood in May 2018. Teams: - Five Marines: One officer (2nd liuetenant to major), one staff noncommissed officer, one noncommissioned officer and two junior Marines - Teams may include one – two sailors - Restricted to permanent personnel aboard MCB Quantico - Registration is open now through Dec. 20, 2017 Project requirements: - 1,000-1,500 word publishable essay on leadership at Belleau Wood and publishable Tactical Decision Game (TDG) - Submit essay and TDG Mar. 1, 2018 - Formal presentation in front of judges panel mid-March 2018
Continued on Page 5
Holiday kickoff, Pages 8-9
Everybody get up, get out and volunteer! Joyce Murphy Installation Volunteer Program coordinator
The world is a changing place and the Marine Corps is no different. At one time, it was commonplace to find Marines being directed to accomplish duties not within the scope of their regular duties. Lovingly known as being “Voluntold,” these duties typically involved providing support to specific events which were of little to no interest to the Marine. These working parties provided a day out of the office or a change of pace, but offered little return to the community or self-fulfillment. Today, the Marine Corps recognizes a volunteer as someone who, in an offduty status, willingly offers and provides services in support of a Marine Corps program or activity. Over the past year, Marine Corps Base Quantico (MCBQ) has taken steps to ensure active duty personnel, family members, retirees, veterans and civilian employees have the tools they need to locate opportunities, which are of interest to them. Part of the initiative is the implementation of the new Volunteer Information Center, an online portal that provides one-stop access 24/7 to a vetted list of on and off base volunteer opportunities. There are more than 700 members of the Quantico community who are registered on the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) online portal as active volunteers. Volunteers find it to be an easy way to locate a variety of on and off
File photo
Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) volunteers pass out Tylenol to those feeling the burn during the 26.2 mile run. This event is just one of the many choices for volunteering.
base opportunities specific to their interests and convenient to their schedule. In 2017, the new Volunteer Information Center provided a listing of nearly 300 volunteer opportunities from a variety of on and off base organizations. Volunteers
who wish to help on base can find numerous opportunities. For those who would like to help the community outside of the gate, opportunities include an AdoptA- School program and the Community Relations Volunteer program.
Volunteers who use the Volunteer Information Center to sign-up for opportunities will find that they have an easier time tracking their hours, receiving Letters of Appreciation (LOAs) necessary for the annual MCBQ Volunteer Award as well as the Marine Volunteer Service Medal. While the type of volunteer opportunities vary depending on the needs of each on-base organization, interested volunteers can find opportunities from the base library, Exceptional Family Member Program, L.I.N.K.S., youth sports and requests for special event support such as the Special Olympics Field Meet in April to the ExtravaGownza held in October and the Kids’ Birthday Bash in November. Off-base opportunities are available from Washington D.C. all the way south to Spotsylvania County. Those interested in helping the local community will find opportunities such as Honor Flights, County special events, Operation Paws for Homes, retirement communities, food banks, SPCA, schools, Salvation Army, summer camps and Toys for Tots. Information on how to become an MCB Quantico volunteer and the Quantico Volunteer Information Center can be found by visiting www.quantico.usmc-mccs. org/index.cfm/marine-family/quantico-volunteer-opportunities/ or www. quantico.marines.mil/Offices-Staff/ Public-Affairs/Volunteer-Program/.
Summary of Tarawa Run
Photo by Cpl. Robert Gonzales
Col. John Atkinson, Headquarters and Service Battalion commander and Col. Eric Kleis, officer in charge, Legal Services Support Section hold the five-headed Beast Trophy, representative of the five companies that comprise Headquarters & Services Bn, which was later presented to 1st Lt. John Cabbage, Service Company commander to safeguard and defend until the next Tarawa Run scheduled for Nov. 20, 2018. The company was awarded the trophy for best participation.
Battle of Tarawa Run Continued from Page 1
Many troops invading the shore did so under the heavy fire of 4,500 armed Japanese soldiers, as U.S. troops waded in waist deep water and crawled upon shore to secure their position. After the memorial run Atkinson emphasized the importance of the moment in which the Marines currently stood, recognizing the history of the 18,000 Marines who fought to advance upon the shores of Tarawa—the representation of Semper Fidelis in action. “That is who you are, your heritage, this is what Marines do,” Atkinson said. “Remember the legacy you
December 7, 2017 2
1. The award for highest per capita turnout for the first Beast Tarawa Day Run was presented to the senior member of Service Company, H&S Bn, Col. Erik Kleis, officer in charge, Legal Services Support Section (LSSS), Marine Corps Base Quantico (MCBQ). 2. Service Company, comprised of elements of the Company Staff, Legal Services Support Section MCBQ G-4, MCBQ G-6 (IT), Reserve Support Unit (RSU), and Regional Contracting won the challenge with approximately 52 percent of assigned strength, or 103 of 199 Marines. They claim they can and will do better in defense of the trophy next year. 3. Kleis handed off the five- headed Beast Trophy, representative of the five companies that comprise H&S BN., to the Service Company Commander 1st Lt. John Cabbage, to safeguard and defend on Nov. 20, 2018. 4. Tenant Activities Company
have been given and protect what you have earned.” Every Marine in attendance answered with an “Oorah.” Those who participated in the run traveled from Yale Hall, around Lejeune Hall, down Zeilin Road, past the Noncommissioned Officer Academy, through the archway of Marine Corps University and back to Yale Hall. Marines from Headquarters Company, Service Company, Combat Development Company, Tenant Activities Company and Training and Education Company all participated. The company with the most participants was awarded “The Beast Tarawa Day Run Trophy” and they will hold it at their respective company to defend each year at the annual Tarawa run.
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(Manpower & Reserve Affairs , Systems Command, Program Executive Office Land Systems (PEO LS), Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity etc. brought up a distant rear at 4.7 percent. 5. Training and Education Company came in with 25 percent, yet, noteworthy was Brig.Gen. Jason Q. Bohm leading the way as the senior officer in the battalion to participate. 6. Combat Development Company (Combat Development & Integration, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab, and Finance), carried almost single handedly by Finance, was at 18 percent strength. Congratulations to the Marines and units supported and manned by Service Company, Headquarters &Service Battalion. We will see who “comes to the fight” next year with the motivation and numbers to take down Service Company!
Col. Eric Kleis, officer in charge, Legal Services Support Section, presented the five-headed beast trophy, representative of the five companies that comprise H&S Bn., to Service Company Commander 1st. Lt. John Cabbage, to safeguard and defend until the next Tarawa run scheduled for Nov. 20, 2018. Service Company is comprised of Marines from S-4, S-6, Legal Services Support Section, Reserve Support Unit and Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs “Congratulations to the Marines and units supported and manned by Service Company, H&S Bn.,” Atkinson said. “We will see who comes to the fight next year with the motivation and numbers to take down Service Company.”
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9 tips for savvy holiday spending Commander Col. Joseph M. Murray Communication Strategy and Operations Officer Maj. A.J. Bormann Editorial Staff Web and Press Officer Frances G. Seybold Editor Valerie O’Berry Sentry email: qpublicaffairs@gmail.com
The Quantico Sentry, the Corps’ oldest newspaper, is a civilian enterprise newspaper and authorized, unofficial publication to members of the military services. It is published in cooperation with the Communication Strategy and Operations Officer, Marine Corps Base Quantico, VA 22134 (phone 703–784–3255) and HPR-Hemlock LLC. d/b/a Northern Virginia Media Services. For display and classified advertisement information, contact Northern Virginia Media Services at 703-771-8831. The editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Quantico Office of Communication, Marine Corps Base Quantico. The contents of the Quantico Sentry do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof. Editorial offices are in Lejeune Hall. Articles printed in the Quantico Sentry are in accordance with the Marine Corps and DOD public affairs, printing and postal regulations. All photographs are official USMC property unless otherwise stated. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by DOD, the Marine Corps or Northern Virginia Media Services of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, natural origin, marital status, physical handicap or political affiliation, or any other non–merit 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. Published by Northern Virginia Media Services, a private firm in no way connected to DOD or the U.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive written contract with the Commander, MCB, Quantico. The Quantico Sentry is printed at no cost to the government. The Marine Corps is solely responsible for all news and editorial content. To contact the Quantico Sentry’s editorial office, e–mail qpublicaffairs@gmail.com.
Military Onesource
Holidays mean spending, but you’ve got the discipline to keep it reigned in this season. Celebrating with your family doesn’t have to lead to debt, and here’s how to make it a great holiday and maintain financial control. Control your cash Check out these ways to tame the holiday frenzy: • Make (and stick to) a budget. Money can fly out of your wallet fast for gifts, special meals, decorations and travel. Plan ahead of time how much you’re going to spend on each category and then stay in that range. • Take inventory. Don’t rush out to buy wrapping paper before checking to see if there’s a forgotten stash of a dozen rolls shoved into the back of a closet. The same is true for presents you may have hidden too well last year. • Shop secondhand for decorations. Thrift stores and garage sales usually have loads of holiday decorations as people upgrade, downsize or realize their decorations somehow multiplied when they weren’t looking. • Consider budget-friendly alternative gifts. Homemade gifts are a great option if you’re crafty or a whiz in the kitchen, or even if you aren’t either of those, but can follow online directions. Coupons for your “services,” like babysitting, can also make good presents. • Make your own holiday cards. You can save money (and trees) by using e-cards to send greetings to your loved ones instead of traditional cards. Many websites offer free or inexpensive e-cards, some with options to add videos or slideshows. • Plan holiday meals early. Knowing what you’re going to cook well in advance lets you shop the sales for the non-perishable items you’ll need. It also helps spread the higher food costs over a couple of paychecks instead of just one. • Use your smart phone while shopping. Many retailers can send coupons right to your phone when you walk into their stores, which is handy (if not a little creepy). You can also use your phone to compare prices to make sure you’re getting the best deal. • Consider traveling on the holiday itself. You could score a much cheaper airline ticket by flying on the holiday instead of
Online, On Your Time The Citadel proudly offers members of the armed forces the opportunity to advance their education at an institution that understands and appreciates military service. The Citadel offers graduate degrees for those looking to accelerate their military careers, in fields including Leadership, Business, Security Studies, and International Politics & Military Affairs. These programs are fully online
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on the days before. Plus, arriving on the big day conveniently gets you out of a lot of meal-prep duty. • Search hotel rates and airfares online. Take advantage of websites that compare airfares and hotels so you get the best deal. Many will also alert you to price drops. Another bonus: Those online reviews can help you avoid a vacation you remember for all the wrong reasons. Be sure to check out special travel options for service members on lodging and flights. There are a lot of ways to save money during the holidays. Check out other budget-friendly tips from Military OneSource, or take advantage of free financial counseling at http://www. militaryonesource.mil/financial-counseling available in person, by phone or by video chat. In addition, Marine Corps Base Quantico has several resources for financial information including the Personal Financial Management Program (PFMP) located at the Religious and Family Services Center, 3019 Embry Loop. Call 703-784-2650 for information. The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) also helps with financest, including loans and counseling. Contact them at 703- 784-9754. NMCRS is located aboard Quantico at 2034 Barnett Ave., Little Hall and they are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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so you can complete your degree uninterrupted—no matter where your service takes you!
For more information or to apply online, visit citadel.edu/online
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December 7, 2017 3
Quantico postal Marines signed, sealed and delivered Jeremy Beale Staff Writer
As the holiday season quickly approaches and families seek to connect with their Marines they haven’t seen in awhile, Marine Corps postal services are the intermediaries between their Marine and a small piece of home. The mission of the Marine Corps Base Quantico (MCBQ) Post Office is to provide direct and general postal support to all Marine Corps and other Department of Defense (DoD) tenant commands aboard base. The Military Post Office is located off 6th Avenue behind the United States Postal Service in Quantico Town and serves as an official mail screening point. The Marine Post Office is typically run and staffed by Marines with the Military Occupational Speciality (MOS) of 0161, postal clerk. The Post Office was inspected in October by Postal Inspector Gunnery Sgt. Shaune Piper (Marine Corps Installastions Command),using the Inspecting General Postal Affairs Functional Area Checklist. The post office passed in all sections to include the registered cage, barracks receptacles, operation procedures and directory services. It was the diligent work of the postal clerks performing all the necessary duties allowing the efficient operation of the postal facility which led to this accomplishment. The typical postal Marines’ day will include mail handling duties such as accepting, sorting, manifesting and dispatching all types of mail, to include official mail. Typically clerks also have the ability to issue and cash United States Postal Service (USPS) money orders, sell stamps, apply postage and mail out parcels. As the Marines work through the process of scanning, dating, sorting and redirecting mail from more than 56 DoD organizations, they also have a much larger task of delivering the mail to 10 barracks, which include approximately 2,400 active receptacles. USPS civilians deliver mail to base housing. In addition, one postal Marine serves as the G-1 adjutant carrier transporting official documents, passports and other official correspondence throughout the
Photo by Jeremy Beale
Cpl. Derrick Asiamah sorts mail at the Marine Corps Base Quantico Post Office.
National Capital Region to areas such as the Pentagon and Marine Barracks Washington 8th & I. Postal clerks are not assigned to unit mailrooms to conduct mail clerk orderly functions until they complete the Interservice Postal Training Postal Operations course at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, or complete six months standard on-the-job training for grade per the Individual Training Standards. Many Marines who prove successful in their training have the opportunity to gain additional experience at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan and Marine Corps Base Smedley D. Butler (MCBSB) Okinawa, Japan. Cpl. Breanna Blankenship, postal clerk andone of many Marines who transferred from Okinawa to MCBQ has been assigned to the postal MOS for four years. Blankenship recollects her time in Okinawa saying it strengthened her ability to handle her workload at Quantico.
The busiest time of year is consistently October through December. Okinawa postal clerks handle 4,000 units of mail on any given day while Quantico Marines handle substantially less, approximately 250 units. The Marines work long hours during the holiday season and their shift may extend past 11 p.m., typically starting at 7:30 a.m. “Within the mailroom we are more than a number in the total force, we are family,” Blankenship said. “Everyone within the mailroom works together towards one common goal—the delivery of mail to all on base.” According to Lance Cpl. Kali Imker, postal clerk, when Marines work in a larger unit it becomes easy for individual Marines to rely on the many to accomplish the mission. In the Quantico Postal Office there are less than a dozen Marines working in a confined space each conducting a task which is essential to the success of their fellow Marines at the Post Office. There are many factors that affect success including attention to detail and timeliness, which if done incorrectly, may cause mail to be deemed delayed or undeliverable. Within the Quantico mailroom Marines can handle anything from care packages and letters going to the barracks to appropriate classified information going to the Russell Knox building “Delivery means to move mail,” Staff Sgt. Krista Jones, postal chief, said. “It’s a federal offense if we don’t.” According Jones, the task could prove to be logistically challenging when trying to move the mail without the proper manpower, so all the Marines have to work together in unison. Post Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Wednesday: 7:30 a.m.–noon, (Closed for training) Mail call hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m.--noon Wednesday: 9–11 a.m. Closed Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays. To set up a general delivery request, please call Quantico Military Postal Operations at 703- 784-2100. Civilian USPS Quantico customers call 703-630-2951.
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BASE NEWS CONTINUED Registration requirements:
Quantico Marine Band Flute Trio Dec. 13, 11–11:30 a.m. The President’s Own Marine Chamber Orchestra Dec. 15, 7:30–9p.m. Quantico Marine Band Dixieland Band Dec. 18, 11 - 11:30am
- Team must be able to travel overseas in late May 2018 - Form must be endorsed by first O-6 in chain of command - Return endorsed form to H&S Bn. S-3A by Dec. 20, 2017 Contact Maj. Michael Pretus for the registration form and additional details at michael.pretus@usmc.mil
Admission and parking are always free at the Museum.
Events at the National Museum
New Veterans ID Card
Visit with Santa! Bring your list and wear your best picture outfit because Santa and Mrs. Claus are here Dec. 9 and 13, 2 – 4 p.m. at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. Enjoy a puppet show and other activities during your visit. Santa has an incredibly busy schedule this time of year. In order to keep him on schedule, you must be in line no later than 3:30 p.m. Please bring your camera! The Museum does not provide photography. Holiday concerts at the Museum The holidays are a great time to listen to live music at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in the Leatherneck Gallery and lift your spirits. In addition, you will get to see the Museum all decked out for the holidays. Don’t miss these events: Quantico Marine Corps Band Woodwind Quintet Dec. 7, 2–2:30p.m. Quantico Marine Corps Band Brass Quintet Dec. 8, 11–11:30 a.m. Quantico Marine Band Horn Quartet Dec. 11, 1–1:30 p.m.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that the application process for the national Veterans Identification Card (VIC) is now available for veterans — yet another action honoring their service. This has been mandated through legislation since 2015 to honor veterans and today’s rollout of the ID card fulfills that overdue promise. Only those veterans with honorable service will be able to apply for the ID card, which will provide proof of military service and may be accepted by retailers in lieu of the standard DD-214 form to obtain promotional discounts and other services where offered to veterans. To request a VIC veterans must visit https://www.vets.gov. In order to verify service, veterans will use S Logon or ID.me. Veterans who apply for a card should receive it within 60 days and can check delivery status of their cards at vets.gov. A digital version of the VIC will be available online by mid-December.
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December 7, 2017 5
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COMMUNITY EVENTS Get in the holiday spirit Take a festive photo
Potomac Mills, 2700 Potomac Mills Dr., Woodbridge, Dec. 10 from 6:308:30 p.m. Event is free. Reserve your spot now by visiting www.eventbrite. com/e/pet-photos-with-santa-tickets39126363005?aff=es2.
Breakfast with Santa
On display until Dec. 26 in Hurkamp Park are oversized greeting card frames. Stop by to visit the cards and take a selfie, share with friends, come back and do it again. It’s free to visit the cards and take all the photos you’d like. The display features four card designs: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy Holidays. Share your pics! Use #FxbgHolidays 2017 when posting on Facebook and Instagram. This event is sponsored by Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation and Events. Call 540-3721086 or visit Downtown31.com for more information.
No snow, no worries
For one night only, join in an evening of snowball fight matches using fun-tothrow polyester “snowballs.” The fun event will be held snow or shine. Come dressed for the weather and bring drinking water. Vendors will be available for purchasing refreshments in the park. Children must be supervised by an accompanying adult. Teens and adults, bring your group of friends and we’ll schedule you for an adults-only match if you’re up for the challenge (matches are every 15 minutes). The event will be held at Riverfront Park in downtown Fredericksburg. Signed waivers are required to play and you can pick up your waiver at the Dorothy Hart Community Center in advance or complete one on-site at the gate. Pay at the gate. For more information call 540-372-1086.
Community volunteer opportunities Are you interested in making a difference in our community? The Marine Corps Base Quantico Volunteer Program can help you find opportunities in the local area. For more information on the program visit www.quantico.marines. mil/Offices-Staff/Public-Affairs/ Volunteer-Program/
Pet photos with Santa Bring your furry friends for Pet Photos with Santa in Grand Court at
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Bring the whole family for a special meal featuring a delicious hot and cold buffet, Christmas story, craft making and the jolly man in red himself! One adult free with paying child ($7) and $2 for each additional adult. Pre-registration is required. This holiday event will be held at the Dorothy Hart Center, 408 Canal St., Fredericksburg. Registration is required by Dec.9. Go to https://www.usedirect. com/FredericksburgRec_Web/Customers/Login.aspx to sign up. Event will be held Dec. 9, 9:30- 10:45 a.m.
Dog Gone Christmas Party! Do something special with your dog(s) this holiday season! Come out and play, eat, sing and take photos of you and your pets at our Dog Christmas Party. We will have food for you and kibble for your dog. Join the Pet/Master Christmas Outfit Contest and more sponsored by Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation and Events. The event will be held at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal St, Fredericksburg, Dec. 15 from 7–9 p.m. Cost is $8 (up to two dogs). Register online at tinyurl.com/
yamj17ow. Questions? Call 540-372-1086.
Family Fun Night New Year’s Eve Plan now for a fun, family New Year’s Eve presented by Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events Department as well as other community partners, to be held in Riverfront Park, Fredericksburg, Dec. 31 from 6–9 p.m. The Family Fun Night includes: Duskwhales Band, Unicyle Lady, Emcee Charlie Frye, dance performances, kids’ games, interactive drum circle, obstacle course, bounce castle, bubble wrap stomp, teen area and “Hit the Deck” DJ, fire pits, gyroscope ride, story photo booth, food vendors , raffles and prizes,
plus an early 9 p.m. countdown and ping pong ball drop. Admission is free for the whole family. For more information call 540-372-1086
Free holiday festival Enjoy the first holiday festival “Mistletoe Magic” on Dec. 9 from 2 - 6 p.m. at Parkridge Center, 11096 Bulloch Dr., Manassas, Virginia. This free, family-friendly festival will feature winter-themed games, crafts, holiday music, animated characters, storytellers, s’mores, a hot chocolate bar and a meet and greet with Mr. Claus himself! Event is free, but you must register by visiting https://tinyurl.com/yc89cg59.
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WinterFest is a daylong family-friendly celebration of the winter season highlighting multiple destinations with entertainment, food and activities for all ages in the Lorton-Occoquan-Lake Ridge region. 11:00 AM Santa's Lake Ridge Parade on Harbor Drive 11:30-3:00 PM Winter Wonderland and Holiday Arts Market at Tackett's Mill Shopping Center Lakeside 4:00-7:00 PM Town of Occoquan Shopping 4:00-7:00 PM The Workhouse Arts Center Second Saturday Arts Walk 4:00-7:00 PM Fireworks Display, courtesy of Prince William Marina Facebook.com/Tackettsmill
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Kumon Math & Reading Center PW Conservation Alliance 9Round Kickboxing Lake Ridge Florist, Inc. Revive Nail Salon After the Fall Lake Ridge Library RTD, Inc. AIM Human Performance Lake Ridge Pizzaria Safeway ARC of Greater Prince William Layla's Lebanese State Farm/Ed SetIiff, Agent Aspen Hill Senior Services Lockmasters Security Institute Slender Spa Baskin Bobbins Massage Envy Statements The Salon Benjamin Counseling Center May & Hettler O.D.P.C. Tackett's Mill Barber Shop Clearbrook Center of the Arts The Maids Congressman Gerald E. Connolly Metro DC - Virginia State Referee Program United Title & Escrow Crystal Cognizance Occoquan District Supervisor Dunkin Donuts Panda Chinese Restaurant VA Youth Soccer Association Virginia ABC Edgemoor Art Studio Patient First Vivid Bridal Jenn-Elisabeth Photography Pediatric Achievements LLC Woodbridge Academy of Dance Joel R. Braunfeld, DDS PC PenFed Realty Kite Architecture Polaris Press
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Kicking off the holiday
Photo by Jeremy Beale
A view of the base Christmas tree in front of Lejeune Hall.
Santa seems to be asking who has been naughty and nice at the open house held De
Photo by Valerie O’Berry
Marine Corps Base Quantico Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) participates in the Town of Quantico Christmas parade each year to show support for the community. QFES also supports the Town of Quantico in emergencies requiring their services.
December 7, 2017 8
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Dancers strut their way down Potomac Avenue at the annual Town of Quantico C
Ne
y season Quantico style
Photo by Jeremy Beale
A Mother holds her daughter as she is amazed by the festive Christmas lights wrapped around the tank which escorted Santa Claus to base for the Commander’s Tree Lighting Festival held Dec. 3.
Photo by Quantico Office of Communication
ec. 2 at the Toys for Tots warehouse in Fredericksburg.
Photo by Jeremy Beale
Christmas parade Dec. 2.
It wasn’t quite a sleigh, but Santa Claus still rode to the front of Lejeune Hall aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico in style.
ews
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Photo by Valerie O’Berry
December 7, 2017 9
Marine Corps Warfighting Lab looks to the future by harnessing lessons of the past is the single fusion center for the Marine Corps Lessons Learned Program on issues transcending the doctrine, organization, training, materiel, leadership and education, personnel, and facilities (DOTMLPF) spectrum,” details Christopher H. Sonntag, director, MCCLL. The wealth of knowledge the MCCLL staff brings to the fight is the precise advantage MCWL is looking for to accurately compile and catalog the results of experiments, currently produced as X-Files within MCWL. These X-Files are produced at the request of the MCWL commanding general and overseen by G-3 Operations. X-Files serve as the roadmap for where MCWL has been as far as experimentation and are consulted before new experiments are planned and executed. These documents will now be searchable by topic and cataloged in the MCCLL archive. “MCCLL also has developed a tool the Campaign of Learning Information System, with the Warfighting Challenge Repository, that uses wargaming reports, live force experimentation results, technical assessments and operating force feedback to guide the future force development process,” added Wortman. The partnership between MCWL and MCCLL stands to profit the entire Marine Corps as these two organizations work together to forge lessons learned into cohesive and easily digestible products, readily accessible to every website-registered Marine. There are roughly 17,000 Marines, from E-1 to O-10, currently registered on the unclassified MCCLL website. Considering there are nearly 183,000 Marines, this represents a small percentage of the force. Registering on the site only requires a Common Access Card to access all website features and the entire database, to include OIF/ OEF operational history and it is readily available. For more information and to register, please go to: http:// www.mcwl.marines.mil/MCCLL/
Matt Lyman Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory/Futures Directorate
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Michael Dye (file photo)
Marines with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, engage an opposing force during a limited objective experiment at Camp Lejeune, N.C. The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory worked with 3rd. Bn, 6th Marines, and 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, to test artillery and infantry integration tactics. During the experiment, the company landing team attacked from near the Onslow Beach landing site towards the objective of the Military Operation in Urban Terrain training center.
happy holid
ays from MA
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Since 1995, the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL) aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico (MCBQ) has leaned forward, anticipating and assisting the operating forces by identifying and guarding against future threats, whatever form they take. This year, the organization went a step further and incorporated the Marine Corps Center for Lessons Learned (MCCLL) into their organization, realizing the best way to fully prepare for the future is by working to completely understand the past. “MCCLL completes the loop for us on future force development by harvesting lessons learned and observations from the operating forces. These lessons learned and observations validate or help us refine our concepts, or highlight gaps that require a service-wide solution supported by the combat development process,” said Brig. Gen. Christian Wortman, commanding general, MCWL. MCCLL, per Marine Corps Order, has the service-level mission of collecting, analyzing, disseminating and archiving lessons for the Marines Corps. They maintain both unclassified and classified website repositories housing a vast amount of information across the range of military operations and for each of the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) elements (command, ground, air, logistics), to include after action reports, MCCLL reports and periodicals, MCWL products from experiments, wargaming, Historical Division products, doctrinal pubs, student thesis papers, joint and sister service reports and literally any document drafted to ensure a lesson is actually learned. MCCLL does not just stop with Marine Corps lessons learned. “Coordinating with the operating forces, advocates, proponents, sister services and allied nations, MCCLL
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Photo by Lance Cpl. Yasmin D. Perez
U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Tamara D. Mitchell, food service specialist, Headquarters & Service Battalion, prepares food during the Chef of the Quarter competition at Officer Candidates School’s Bobo Hall. Three teams, which consisted of U.S. Marines and civilian food service employees, competed in a variety of food challenges that tested their creativity and quick thinking.
Competition was heated in Chef of the Quarter culinary cook-off Jeremy Beale, Staff Writer Frances Seybold, Press and Web Operations
Marine Corps Base Quantico Food Services Branch and contractor Sodexo teamed up Dec. 4 at Officer Candidates School (OCS) Bobo Hall for a culinary cook-off as part of the ongoing mess hall of the quarter program. The Chef of the Quarter culinary cookoff helps illustrate the importance of food service as a basic function of command as it provides the fuel Marines need and which keeps daily activities going on base. On Nov. 29 cooks from each mess hall completed a written exam to qualify for the competition. The three teams selected to compete were Base Food Services (BFS) for Officer Candidates School (OCS) Bobo Hall consisting of Sodexo cook Deedee Purvis and Staff Sgt. Manual Alvarado; Dwyer Hall Sodexo cook Llanira Sorto and Staff Sgt. Tamara Mitchell; and Sodexo Production Manager Cirilo Victoria and Lance Cpl. Kaleigh Radcliff, BFS for Bruce Hall. The teams were asked to cook an appetizer, beef empanadas and a main entrée (chicken cordon bleu) to present to a panel of five judges as well as spectators in attendance. Each team put their own unique spin on their dish so the judges could experience each individual’s culture, personality and flavor. The winning mess hall team, OCS Bobo Hall, was awarded the trophy and bragging rights for the quarter. Alvarado has had a passion for cooking since he was 16 years old and has had the privilege of receiving a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts and serving as a cook for the 37th Commandant of the Marine
News
Photo by Jeremy Beale
Sodexo cooks Llanira Sorto and Deedee Purvis, Sodexo Production Manger Cirilo Victoria, Lance Cpl. Kaleigh Radcliff, Base Food Services (BFS) Bruce Hall, Staff Sgt. Manual Alvarado BFS Bobo Hall and Staff Sgt. Tamara Mitchell, Dwyer Hall, recieve thanks from MCINCR-MCBQ Commander Col. Joseph Murray.
Corps Gen. Robert Neller. He hopes to continue cooking at the competitive level and participate in a joint service cook-off. An award was also given to Dwyer Hall for the people’s choice. As the base continues highlighting the work the BFS teams accomplish, all five mess halls aboard Quantico will have the opportunity to compete for a chance to win the Marine Corps-wide, Maj. Gen. W.P.T. Hill Memorial Award. The award is given for food service excellence and recognizes Marine Corps mess hall operations that are outstanding in the preparation and service of food, customer service and management. Nominations for the award are due January 2018. The local nominee will be determined by points earned by each of the mess halls in six focus areas: technical inspections, contracting, quality assurance evaluations, customer surveys, contractor quality control program and culinary competitions.
Photo by Jeremy Beale
During the Chef of the Quarter culinary cook- off, Sodexo Production Manager Cirilio Victoria explains to judges the production of their chicken cordon bleu.
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December 7, 2017 11
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DoD offers course for using Blended Retirement System comparison calculator By Terri Moon Cronk DoD News, Defense Media Activity
Service members eligible to opt into the Blended Retirement System in 2018 can now take a free course to learn to use the online comparison calculator to aid in determining whether the new BRS or the legacy retirement system is a better choice for their circumstances, Defense Department officials said. The calculator provides individual military retirement benefit estimates for service members who are eligible to opt into the new system in 2018, allowing them to compare options under both systems. Service members using a Common Access Card (CAC) can access the course through Joint Knowledge Online and a non-CAC version also is available for active duty members, officials said. Fred Drummond, deputy assistant secretary of defense for force education and training, said the comparison calculator is a valuable resource for service members and their families as they make decisions regarding their financial future. “Additionally,” he said, “we strongly encourage service members to seek out additional financial consultation with their own financial adviser, if they have one.”
Course offered in two versions The Comparison Calculator Course is available in two versions -- one is for active duty service members and the other is designed to meet the needs of the National Guard and reserve components. Both official DoD comparison calculators and the accompanying courses are the only calculator tools endorsed by DoD, officials said. The Defense Department takes no position on which retirement system a service member should select, officials said. Everyone is encouraged to use all the resources available in the decisionmaking process, including the completion of the BRS Opt-In Course, using the BRS comparison calculator, accessing the online BRS resource materials and scheduling time with a personal financial manager or counselor, they noted. Service members can get free, personal support from an accredited personal financial manager or counselor through their installation’s Military and Family Support Center by searching online at http://militaryinstallations.dod.mil/ or http://www.jointservicesupport. org/spn. Additional resources are available on the Blended Retirement System website at http://militarypay.defense. g o v / B l e n d e d R e t i re m e n t / s o u rc e / GovDelivery/
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December 7, 2017 13
CHAPLAIN
Do we live up to our name? Lt. j.g. J.T. Park H&S BN/base chaplain, CHC, USN
Alexander the Great was one of the greatest military generals in history, conquering almost the entire known world with his army. One night during a campaign, he couldn’t sleep and left his tent to walk around the campgrounds. As he was walking he came across a soldier asleep on guard duty and the penalty for falling asleep on guard duty was, in some cases, instant death the commanding officer would pour kerosene on the sleeping soldier and light it. The soldier began to wake up as Alexander the Great approached him. Recognizing who was standing in front of him, the young man feared for his life. “Do you know what the penalty is for falling asleep on guard duty?” Alexander the Great asked. “Yes, sir,” the solder responded in a quivering voice. “Soldier, what’s your name?” demanded Alexander the Great. “Alexander, sir.” Alexander the Great repeated the question: “What is your name?” “My name is Alexander, sir,”the soldier repeated. For a third time and more sternly Alexander the Great asked, “What Is
Your Name, Soldier?” A third time the soldier timidly said, “Sir, my name is Alexander, sir.” Alexander the Great then looked the young soldier straight in the eyes and said with intensity: “Soldier, either change your name or change your CONDUCT!” As we are approaching the end of year 2017 and the beginning of a brand new year, holiday spirit may play a bigger role than our United States Marine Corps (USMC) spirit of Semper Fidelis for some of us in certain situations; and for a Marine, we all know that bad reputation does not stop at an individual level but affects fellow Marines as well. Just as we “work hard and play hard,” we ought to “work smart and play smart” and “work faithfully and play faithfully” as well. We who carry the name of USMC and call ourselves Marines must live up to the name. So, before we engage ourselves with many of the year’s end pleasurable activities, let’s ask this simple question to oneself: “Marine, am I living up to the name?” Philippians 4:8 - “Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable.” (GOD’S WORD Translation)
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