MWSS-371 trains convoy skills - Marine Corps Air Ground ...

Marines got talent,page A3

Intramural softball continuesall-star play, page B1

June 17, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 Issue 24

MWSS-371 trains convoy skillsCCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNNCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

The Marines and sailors of Motor Transportation Co.,Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, practiced live fire andmaneuver, setting up a landing zone, suppressing fire andpushing through the kill zone as part of their EnhancedMojave Viper training at Range 205 June 10 for theirupcoming deployment later this year.

“It’s very important, it helps us hone our skill as notonly Motor T operators, [but as] gunners and other respon-sibilities with the convoy,” said Capt. Matthew L.Hendrickson, the commanding officer for MotorTransportation Co.

As the training began, the Marines, who have trained at other

CCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD.. TTHHOORRBBUURRNN

A simulated improvised explosive device detonates as a vehicle with Motor Transportation Co., Marine Wing SupportSquadron 371, approaches during Enhanced Mojave Viper convoy training at range 205 June 10.

See CONVOY, A5


A gunner with Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, talkswith an instructor before conducting the convoy trainingfor Enhanced Mojave Viper at range 205 June 10.

‘Warfighter’ takes charge asCorps’ new Sergeant MajorLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. DDAANNIIEELL AA.. WWEETTZZEELLHEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS

WASHINGTON – “The Marines in uniformtoday, every single one of them, had a choiceand they all chose to serve. I get to serve them,and I am privileged to get to serve in this capac-ity,” said newly appointed Sergeant Major of the

Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett afterhe took the reins as the senior enlisted advisorto the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

Barrett became the 17th Sergeant Major ofthe Marine Corps during a relief and appoint-ment ceremony June 9 at Marine Barracks

SSGGTT.. MMIICCHHAAEELL CCIIFFUUEENNTTEESS

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos hands the sword of office toSergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett during a relief andappointment ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington June 9.

DDIIAANNEE DDUURRDDEENN

Author and former Marine Steven Pressfield signed his books at the MainExchange Wednesday. Pressfield began a book signing tour earlier this month topromote his most recently published book, The Profession. Pressfield’s notorietywith Marines is primarily due to an earlier published book, Gates of Fire, which ison the Commandant’s Reading List.

Commandant chosen, Marine approved

See BARRETT, A5

Wolf Pack opens memorial park for fallen MarinesLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Third Light ArmoredReconnaissance Battaliondedicated a memorial to the11 Wolf Pack Marines whofell during Operation IraqiFreedom between 2003 to2009 Tuesday during theunveiling of the 3rd LARMemorial Park in front oftheir headquarters building.

The two-year-long projectfinally came to a close Tuesdaywhen the OIF memorial wasdedicated to the battalion.

“We aren’t deploying toIraq anymore,” said Capt.Michael Simon the companycommander for CompanyD. “It’s time to recognizethat while this battalion didamazing things in Iraq, itcame at a cost.”

Simon lost seven Marines

in Iraq in 2006 during OIFwhen he served as a platooncommander for Co. D.

“It’s important to have aplace that we can remem-ber,” he said. “We have a

short, but rich history, andthey played into it as much asanyone else, if not more.This is the price we have to

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZ

Marines and sailors of 3rd LAR pause to reflect at their new memorial dedicated to the WolfPack Marines who lost their lives during Operation Iraqi Freedom after the dedicationceremony of their memorial park Tuesday in front of the 3rd LAR headquarters building.


The Marines of 3rd LAR dedicated this monument to 11brothers who lost their lives during Operation Iraqi Freedomduring the dedication ceremony of their memorial parkTuesday in front of the 3rd LAR headquarters building.

See MEMORIAL, A5

AA22 JJUUNNEE 1177,, 22001111 OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt

AACCRROOSSSS1. Word before

transit or fire6. Father: Prefix11. Statesman

Hammarskjöld14.“Get __” (Chris

Elliott sitcom)15.Folklore villains16.Before, to Byron17.Criminal tennis

player?19.Not “agin”20.Garr or Hatcher21.Faucet problems22.Bisque morsel23. Former

counterpart of Jayand David

25.Comic Charlotte26. Criminal

psychoanalyst?32.__-cop35.“Clue” weapon36.“... __ penny

earned”37.Illinois city39.Slap the cuffs on40.Sugar holder

43.Some NCOs45.Criminal Rosalind

Russell role?48.Pup’s cry49.November

marcher53.Tattered attire55.Awaited the

anthem58.Autobahn auto59.Craft in the

tabloids60.Criminal talk

show host?62.Tax-deferred

investment, for short

63.Man from Mars64.Raison __65.Petal-plucker’s

word66.Use the finger

bowl67.Salon apparatus

CRIMINAL

CCoommmmaannddiinngg GGeenneerraall BBrriigg.. GGeenn.. HH.. SSttaaccyy CCllaarrddyy IIIIII

Observation Post

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

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

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DDOOWWNN1. Dread-locked

Jamaican2. Take in or let out3. Places for seaside

strolls4. Most uncertain5. Dict. offering6. Organized

persecution7. Introduction to

culture?8. Pebble Beach hazard9. Officiates10.Suffix with hobby

or lobby11.Ridding of pests, in a

way12.Plane measure13.Idea’s beginning18. Beatnik’s

“Understood!”22.Niggle24.Peeples or Long25.Country mailing

initials, once27.Extremist28.Opposite of paleo-29.Veep before Al

30.__ the crack of dawn31.Ball honorees32.Costa __33.Jacob’s twin34.Farm female37.Broke bread38.Moon vehicle,

briefly41.“How sweet __!”42.Drink daintily43.Citi Field player44.Mudslinging pol46.DeCarlo of “The

Munsters”47.Lamarr of

Hollywood50.Out of practice51.Be nuts over52.Forty-__ (old

prospector)53.Bring crashing

down54.Curly coif55. Individual

performances56.Watered down57.Teller’s stack60.Jelly holder61.Say further

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78 9 6 56 3 8 7 9 4

7 3 1 69

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CCRROOSSSSWWOORRDD AANNDD SSUUDDOOKKUU PPUUZZZZLLEESS CCOOUURRTTEESSYY OOFF ©© 22001100 HHOOMMEETTOOWWNN CCOONNTTEENNTT

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

SUDOKU #2207

Eagle

Eyes

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

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

830-3937

Combat Center Spotlight

Hot Topics

Marine Corps History

June 15, 1944

Preceded by naval gunfire andcarrier air strikes, the V

Amphibious Corps assaulted thewest coast of Saipan, Marianas

Islands. By nightfall, the 2nd and4th Marine Divisions, moving

against heavy opposition, estab-lished a beachhead 10,000 yards

wide and 1,500 yards deep.

GGLLOOWW BBAALLLL TTOOUURRNNEEYY

There will be a glow ball tourna-ment at the Desert Winds GolfCourse June 24. Show time willbe at 5 p.m., the game starts at 6p.m. Sign up as a four-man teamor as an individual and be placedon a team. Play nine holes at twi-light, break for dinner, then fin-ish the last nine holes. Cost is$45 including green fees, cart,range balls, food and prizes.Golfers, bring your family to eatfor only $7 extra per guest. Call830-6132 for more information.

FFRREEEE KKIIDDSS BBOOWWLLIINNGG

Kids bowl free during the 60Days of Summer event at SandyHill Lanes Bowling Center, fromJune 13 to August 13. Childrenup to age 17. Those 18 year old,but still in high school are alsowelcome. Event runs 1 to 9 p.m.,seven days a week, with a two-game per day limit per child.Registration required. Kids mustbe accompanied by an adult.Standard shoe rates apply. Forinformation call 830-6422.

VVAACCAATTIIOONN BBIIBBLLEESSCCHHOOOOLL

There will be a “Kingdom of theSon” Vacation Bible School forchildren from kindergarten to6th grade at the ProtestantChapel aboard the CombatCenter July 11-15, from 9 to11:30 a.m. Children will discoverexotic animals, do safari crafts,play games, sing songs and enjoysafari snacks. They will alsoexplore the Lord’s Prayer. Forinformation call 830-6464.Volunteers are needed.

MMEEDDIIEEVVAALL FFUUNN AATT LLLLLL

Come to the Lifelong LearningLibrary’s Medieval amusementsto win prizes, enjoy guest speak-ers and royal activites June 17 -July 29. For children ages 5 to 12years. and will be at the libraryevery Friday from 10 - 11:30 a.m.For information call 830-6875.

NNaammee:: June RichardsonHHoommeettoowwnn:: Cathedral City, Calif.JJoobb ttiittllee:: Area Operations Manager,Sodexo Government ServicesJJoobb dduuttiieess:: Oversees operation ofboth Combat Center mess hallsHHoobbbbiieess:: Yoga and GolfWWhhaatt ddoo yyoouu lliikkee mmoosstt aabboouuttyyoouurr jjoobb??:: “I love serving ourMarines as they leave and comeback from deployments. Workinghere is a great way for me to showmy appreciation for everything thatthey do.”WWhhaatt kkiinnddss ooff ccoommmmuunniittyy pprroojj--eeccttss hhaavvee yyoouu bbeeeenn iinnvvoollvveedd iinn??::“Champions of Hunger is a bigone. It allows us to use the foodbusiness to do good work in thecommunity. We also help with theLittle Chapel of the Desert project,Food Pantry, and other food drives.We have an event called Buck-a-Bag.And we’ve also sponsored partici-pants in local activities like theSoapbox Derby.”

Opinions expressed in Centerspeak are not nec-essarily those of the OBSERVATION POST, theMarine Corps or the Department of Defense.

Marines give aFather’s Day

shout out.

PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS DANIEL ROGERS

COMPANY B, 3RD COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION

CPL. RICHARD SCHMITZ

7TH MARINE REGIMENT

To his father Edward Schmitz ofRoseville, Calif.:

“Not as lean, not asmean, but still a

Marine. I love youDad. Semper Fi.”

Centerspeak

To his father, Phillip Rogers ofWaxahachie, Texas:

“Thank you for alwaysbeing the best exam-ple of what a man

should be even when you don’tthink I’m watching.”

LANCE CPL. MICHAEL BAKER

COMPANY A, HEADQUARTERS BATTALION

To his father, Michael Evans ofGreenville, N.C.:

“Happy Fathers Day.Thank you for mak-ing me who I am.”

http://www.facebook.com/thecombatcenter

http://www.youtube.com/user/CombatCenterPAO.

Hey Combat Center fans!Check out the official MCAGCC

social media sites at:

PPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss OOffffiicceerr - Capt. Nick MannweilerDDeeppuuttyy PPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss OOffffiicceerr - 2nd Lt. Sin CarranoPPuubblliicc AAffffaaiirrss CChhiieeff - Gunnery Sgt. Sergio JimenezPPrreessss CChhiieeff//EEddiittoorr - Sgt. Heather GoldenAAssssiittaanntt EEddiittoorr -Lance Cpl. Sarah DietzBBrrooaaddccaasstt CChhiieeff - Lance Cpl. William J. JacksonLLaayyoouutt,, DDeessiiggnn - Leslie Shaw

CCoorrrreessppoonnddeennttssStaff Sgt. Lyndel JohnsonCpl. Andrew D. ThorburnLance Cpl. D. J. WuDiane DurdenEmily Anderson

TRICARE flushes outswimmer’s earKKRRIISSTTIINN SSHHIIVVEESSTRICARE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY

Swimming and splashing are sure signs summer is here.Flips, twists and jumps into the pool are fun but maycause water buildup in the ear, which can lead to a com-mon ear infection known as swimmer’s ear.

In the United States, swimmer’s ear results in an esti-mated 2.4 million health care visits every year and near-ly half a billion dollars in health care costs, says theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Swimmer’sear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of theouter ear canal. The infection can occur in all agegroups; however, it is common in children and can beextremely painful.

Swimmer’s ear occurs when water stays trapped inthe ear canal for extended periods of time. The warm,moist environment provides a place for germs to mul-tiply and infect the skin. Germs found in pools orother recreational water venues are the most commoncauses of swimmer’s ear, though infection can alsodevelop when objects used to clean the ear canalcause a break in the skin.

TRICARE beneficiaries who are experiencingsigns or symptoms of swimmer’s ear should seekmedical attention. Symptoms of swimmer’s earinclude itchiness inside the ear, redness and swelling,pain when the ear is touched and pus drainage.Whether symptoms are mild or severe, it’s importantto have the ear evaluated. In most cases, swimmer’sear can be treated with antibiotic eardrops.

Swimming is the third most popular recreationalactivity in the United States and the most popular recre-ational activity for children, reports the CDC. They offerthese tips to reduce the risk of swimmer’s ear:

• Dry ears after swimming and showering• Don’t put objects in the ear canal• Don’t try to remove ear wax• Use a bathing cap, ear plugs or swim molds when

swimmingBeneficiaries who need medical treatment for urgent

illnesses should go to an urgent care facility.Beneficiaries should contact their PCM for a referral orcall their regional health care contractor for assistancebefore receiving care. For Prime beneficiaries, failure toobtain a referral may cause care to be covered under thepoint-of-service option, which means higher costs.

When splashing and swimming this summer,remember to keep ears dry and protected. For moreinformation on how to prevent swimmer’s ear, visitwww.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi/illnesses/swimmers-ear.html. Find out more on covered servic-es by going to www.tricare.mil/coveredservices.

http://www.flickr.com/thecombatcenter.

EEMMIILLYY AANNDDEERRSSOONN

SSTTOORRYY AANNDD PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYYCCPPLL.. AANNDDRREEWW DD..TTHHOORRBBUURRNNCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Sunset Cinema was packedwith members of the CombatCenter community Saturdayfor the fifth annual “MarinesGot Talent” show hosted bythe Single Marine Program andthe Drug Demand ReductionProgram, with Marine CorpsCommunity Services.

The audience laughed,cried and cheered for the 19entries, which included bands,dancers, acoustic guitar play-ers, singers and monologues.

“I think it is going to gogreat, because everybody is

going to bring their group offriends and units to cheerthem on and win,” said BethAyash, DDRP coordinatorwith MCCS. “We have beendoing this for four yearsnow. Marines can show offtheir talent and feel goodabout coming here andenjoying a night out.”

As the performers strut-ted their stuff, some thoughtthe crowd, although support-ive, could be more energized.

“I think the audience justneeds a little boost, andthey will definitely get itfrom us and then see if itgoes through the roof,” said

OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt JJUUNNEE 1177,, 22001111 AA33

Corporal Robert Iaulualo and Lance Cpl. Shakiem Smith, both administrative clerks with Headquarters and Service Company3/7, rock the crowd as Johnny Thunder and Bobby Lightning.

Musical act Rhythm & Rhymes raps and beatboxes for the crowd.

Who’s got talent? You do!

Corporal Lester Bose, a ground communi-cations technician with the Marine CorpsCommunication-Electronics School,shows off his dance moves for the judgesof the fifth annual “Marines Got Talent”show at Sunset Cinema Saturday. Bose’sperformance earned him first place.

Corporal Andrew Hobbs, a ground communicationstechnician with Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School energizes the audience with hisacoustic guitar performance.See TALENT, A7

Norquist retires after 26 yearsLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHHDDIIEETTZZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

Lieutennt Col. BrentNorquist, the now-formerassistant chief of staff forthe G-4, gathered with hisfriends, family and Marinesto bid farewell to the Corpshe’s served for 26 years dur-ing a retirement ceremonyJune 10.

During one of his finalacts as an active duty leader,Norquist shared some ofthe things he’s learned andexperiences he’s had duringhis time in the Corps.

“A lesson I will take awayfrom my career is bloomwhere you’re planted,”Norquist said, referring tomultiple times in his career

where things did not goaccording to his plan. “Also,focus on the importantthings. It is more importantto do the right thing than tobe right all the time. Lastly,leadership is an honor and aprivilege. The true joy ofleadership is facilitatingother people to success.”

The retiring officer, Brig.Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, theCombat Center’s command-ing general, expressed hissorrow over the departure ofa friend and trusted col-league, but conveyed hisappreciation of a greatMarine’s fruitful service.

“I could not have had afiner G-4 than there was inthe last year,” Clardy said.“He is in a colonel’s billet, asenior colonel’s billet. He’s

done exceptionally well.“Lt. Col. Norquist con-

sistently demonstrated thathe is what all of us strive tobe, a warrior, professionaland a leader,” he said. “Heis a great Marine, great offi-cer and great American.he accomplished his mis-sion and looked out forthe welfare of his Marines,

sailors and family.”Amongst the congratula-

tions, handshakes and remi-niscing, Norquist highlightedthe driving force of his last 26years of service - his family.

“I don’t have the words tosay how much all of this isdue to your support and the

Semper FiPad: Marine Corps aviators use popular tablet in AfghanistanCCPPLL.. RRAASSHHAAUUNN XX.. JJAAMMEESS2ND MARINE AIRCRAFT WING (FWD)

CAMP BASTION, Afghan-istan – Marine Corps aviatorsin Afghanistan are using oneof the hottest electronicdevices on the market to helpkeep Afghan civilians andcoalition ground troops safe.

“iPads allow close-air sup-port aircrew several advan-tages,” said Maj. MarcBlankenbicker, the lead firecontrol officer for the MarineAerial Refueler Transport

Squadron Harvest Hawkdetachment at Camp Dwyer,Afghanistan. “First is theability to carry 500 largecharts, known as gridded ref-erence graphics, on one elec-tronic tablet.”

Currently, a handful of2nd Marine Aircraft Wing(Forward) squadrons useApple’s iPad in Afghanistan.This includes crewmembersfor AH-1W and UH-1Y lightattack helicopter squadrons,AV-8B Harrier pilots and thecrew of the Harvest Hawk

equipped KC-130J.Each of these aircraft

provides close-air supportfor Marines, Afghan forcesand other combined groundtroops in Nimroz andHelmand provinces. Marineaviators said the electronictablet helps them quicklyaccess maps and other datathey can use to ensure preci-sion strikes are targeted atenemy positions.

“There are hundreds ofthousands of buildings in thearea of operation. Essentially

there is no room to carry all ofthe maps in the small cockpitof the Cobra. It can be a realinconvenience to pull them allout and reference them dur-ing flight,” explained Capt.Michael Christman, an AH-1W Cobra pilot with MarineLight Attack Squadron 267.

“Instead of scanningsheets of paper, we type in asector name or a four-digitgrid coordinate and the iPadwill center on the desired


SJA CORNER

What is a judgmentof legal separation?CCAAPPTT.. SSHHAANNNNOONN MMAAWWSSOONNLEGAL ASSISTANCE OFFICE

Often clients will come intothe Legal Assistance Officewondering about howdivorce works. Inevitablythey ask about legal separa-tion as well. Legal separationand dissolution (or divorce)in California are two com-pletely separate actions.

In California, a judgment oflegal separation can be grantedby a judge. This is an alternativeto dissolution and is used whenthe parties do not want toabsolutely end the marriage.The most common reasonspeople will seek a legal separa-tion is so that they can remainas a beneficiary under a med-ical insurance policy that wouldotherwise be terminated ifthere was a dissolution, or theirreligious beliefs preclude themfrom getting a divorce.

The legal process for ajudgment of legal separationis very similar to a dissolutionproceeding. Custody, visita-tion, separation of communi-ty property rights and otherissues related to the marriagecan be determined in a judg-ment for legal separation.Unlike dissolution, there is noresidency requirement for ajudgment for legal separation.For a judgment of dissolu-tion, a petitioner must havelived in the state of Californiafor six months before theycan file their papers with thecourt. However, a person canfile for a judgment of legal

separation at any time regard-less of how long they havelived in California.

In the future, a client mayamend their judgment of legalseparation into a dissolutionproceeding after they attain theresidency requirement of livingin California for six months.Then, six months after it hasbeen converted into dissolu-tion proceedings, they mayobtain a divorce decree. This isan alternative to divorce forindividuals who could notmeet California’s residencyrequirement initially, but wantto begin the process instead ofwaiting. You still have to meetthe California residencyrequirements and the sixmonth “cooling off” periodbefore a judgment for dissolu-tion is granted. A judgment oflegal separation will simply getthe ball rolling and allow theparties to separate their assets,debts, establish custody, visita-tion and child support orderswhile they are waiting.

It is important to note forMarines, a judgment for legalseparation can potentiallyaffect your eligibility for basicallowance for housing entitle-ments. Additionally, a judg-ment for legal separation doesnot mean you are single. Youare still in a married status, andadultery is a chargeable offenseunder the Uniform Code ofMilitary Justice. If you arethinking about divorce or legalseparation, you can make anappointment to see a legalassistance officer at 830-6111.


Lieutenant Col. Brent Norquist and his retiring officer,Brig. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, stand at attention duringNorquist’s retirement ceremony at the Combat Centerflag pole June 10.


Brigadier Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, the retiring officer for Lt.Col. Brent Norquist, presents Norquist with a presidentialpin and a Legion of Merit Medal during Norquist’s retire-ment ceremony at the Combat Center flag pole June 10.Norquist retired after 26 years of service to the Corps.

See IPAD, A7CCPPLL..RRAASSHHUUAANN XX.. JJAAMMEESS

Corporal Eric Monroe, an UH-1Y Huey crew chief withMarine Light Helicopter Squadron 267, searches for afully charged iPad before departing for a mission at CampBastion, Afghanistan, June 8.

See RETIRES, A6


installations, were impressedwith the training capabilities ofthe Combat Center.

“I think [the CombatCenter] has great trainingfacilities,” said Cpl. RobertBingaman, a military police-man attached with MotorTransportation Co. “It does-n’t get as real as this, beingable to move and shoot,motor simulators, to gofrom [improvised explosivedevice] to taking fire, havinga casualty and setting up a[helicopter landing zone.]It’s better than doing every-thing notionally.”

As the company begantheir exercise, the com-manding officer, executiveofficer and staff noncom-missioned officers observedtheir Marines and sailors toevaluate their strengths andweaknesses.

“We did well,” said Sgt.Maj. Darryl Cherry, thesquadron sergeant major.

“There are things we need todo better, but that is the pur-pose of training.”

Hendrickson said the onearea he noticed could usemore work was communica-

tion between the vehicles.However, he said that is asimple problem to fix, and headdressed way to improveduring his debriefing with theMarines after the exercise.

Hendrickson’s generalevaluation of the company’straining was shared by manyof the Marines and sailors.

“I think we performedright about the level we need

to be for where we aretoday,” said Bingaman. “Ithink we can go back andcoordinate with the othershops and set up an overall[standard operating proce-

dures, so when we do thistogether, we will all be onthe same page. Right now weare all getting down on thebasics, and for that we per-formed on par.”


Vehicles with Motor Transportation Co., Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, go through a final inspection before the Enhanced Mojave Viper con-voy training at range 205 June 10.

CONVOY, from A1

Washington as Sgt. Maj.Carlton W. Kent retired fromthe Corps.

It was 90-degrees andhumid throughout the eveningin the 210-year-old Marinepost in downtown Washingtonwhen the sword of office washanded to Barrett, signifying

the transition in responsibility.Nonetheless, all Marines inattendance were in their“dress whites,” a uniform ofa jacket and trousers that havedistinguished Marines sincethe 1800s.

The warm night onlyintensified as the Corps’ twotop enlisted took center stageduring the scripted traditional

ceremony to impart their gen-uine comments. Their voicesbellowed through the post’scourtyard corridors – Kentreflecting on his 35-yearcareer and Barrett sharinganecdotes of Marines he’smet and the excitement onbecoming a leader of a “fear-less and selfless” force.

“I expect all of our

Marines to continue to beselfless. I expect our Marinesto continue to sacrifice forone another. I expect ourMarines to continue to dobrave deeds and endure thetough times that lay ahead,”Barrett said.

The position of SergeantMajor of the Marine Corpswas established in 1957 andwas the first such post in anyof the branches of theUnited States Armed Forces.Typically, it’s a duty served forfour years at theCommandant’s discretion.

Barrett praised Kent forhis successful tour and saidhe plans to carry on fromwhere Kent left off – to“work in line with theCommandant’s priorities andmodernize the force.”

“I’m going to befocused on all the issues.I’m going to give it all ofmy effort. I’m going to giveit all of my energies, andI’m going to enthusiastical-ly continue to coalesce theteam,” Barrett said.

Before the appointmentthat brought Barrett to hiscurrent post, he served as thesergeant major of 1st MarineDivision, a combat-readyunit of almost 20,000

Marines and sailors head-quartered at Marine CorpsBase Camp Pendleton, Calif.

He recently returned froma deployment to Helmandprovince, Afghanistan, wherehe served as RegionalCommand Southwest’s ser-geant major.

Sergeant Maj. AnthonySpadaro said to consider theappointment of Barrett awarning order – “everyonebetter bring their ‘A-game’when he’s around.” Spadarowas the sergeant major of3rd Marine Aircraft Wing(Forward), a unit recentlydeployed to Afghanistanthat supported Barrett andhis Marines when conduct-ing combat operations inHelmand province.

“Duty is not just a sublimeword to Sgt. Maj. Barrett. It’severything to him,” saidSpadaro. “We’re talking abouta transcendental Marinewho’s ideal for the part.”

In addition to a leader ofMarines in a combat zone,Barrett was a sniper early inhis career, made Marines as adrill instructor and ledMarines on the forward edgeof the warzone – to includetwo tours to Iraq as battalionsergeant major of the battle-

hardened 2nd Battalion, 7thMarine Regiment.

“The man is a warfighter,”said Kent, describing Barrett.“And, he’s a leader. TheMarine Corps is in greatshape because of the leadersthat we have.”

Kent said he’s going todo “the most importantthing” a Marine should dowhen he retires from theCorps – spend quality timewith his family.

Throughout his 35 years ofservice in the Corps, Kent hasserved as a drill instructor andmade Marine aviators as achief drill instructor and sen-ior enlisted advisor at NavalAviation Officers CandidateSchool in Pensacola, Fla. Hetook on lead roles a sergeantmajor of an artillery battalion,sergeant major of the WestCoast’s Recruit TrainingRegiment, and sergeant majorof I Marine ExpeditionaryForce, a position that put himin front of tens of thousandsof Marines and sailors.

He said it was an honor toserves as a leader, and he’sleaving with a sense of pridein knowing that the Marinestoday are living up to thelegacy Marines from the pasthave created.

BARRETT, from A1

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. DDAANNIIEELL AA.. WWEETTZZEELL

Retired Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj.Carlton W. Kent and newly-appoint-ed Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett salute during the pass-and-review portion of the relief and appointment ceremony June 9, at Marine BarracksWashington. Barrett, an infantryman by trade, is the 17th Sergeant Major of the MarineCorps, a billet appointed by the Commandant to be his senior enlisted advisor.

Drug Education for YouthPPRREESSSS RREELLEEAASSEEROBERT E. BUSH NAVAL HOSPITAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The DEFY program is starting up again thisyear. The year-long program is designed tostrengthen protective factors that increasethe likelihood that youth will lead healthy,drug-free lives. DEFY focuses on 9-12 year-old youth and has proven to be an effectiveearly intervention for youth in the target agegroup who are at-risk for future involvementwith drugs and gangs. Our goal is to empow-

er military youth to build positive, healthylifestyles as drug-free, successful citizens. Formore information, please contact Navy ChiefTerry Morocco at 830-2539 and [email protected] or Petty Officer 3rd ClassCourtney Marsh at (520) 252-5517 andcourtney.marsh@med. navy.mil.

Camp dates are July 31 to Aug 5. We will beaccepting the first 20 applicants. You can findapplications and more information on the pro-gram at http://www.public. navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/nadap/ Pages/DEFY.aspx.

pay when we go to war.”Like a family, the battalion

shared good times and roughtimes together, Simon said,reflecting on his deploymentswith the unit.

“There is something aboutthe Wolf Pack that draws youtogether like a family,” Simonsaid. “We lost seven guys inthree weeks [that year]. That

was something we had to workthrough. What’s worth notingis while we had seven passaway, the rest of the guys con-tinued to fight. They continuedto remember them and fight.”

The battalion stood at atten-tion, ignoring the intense sum-mer heat, to pay tribute to thebrothers memorialized that day.

“This is an opportunity torecognize the selfless service andsacrifice of our Wolf Pack

Marines who have come beforeus,” said Lt. Col. KennethKassner, the battalion com-mander of 3rd LAR. “TheMarines and sailors whosenames are etched on the stonesbefore you gave their ultimatesacrifice in support of ournation. Although their lives havebeen cut short, they are anythingbut unfulfilled because eachembarked on a service of some-thing greater than themselves.”

MEMORIAL, from A1

family,” Norquist said, speak-ing to his wife, Melissa. “Icould not have done anything Ihave done without the support

and backing of my family. Thefamily members serve also.”

Leaving a life they’veknown for so long is going tobe a hard transition for them,Melissa said.

“I’ve been most worriedabout him retiring becausethis has been his life,” Melissasaid. “We love TwentyninePalms. We asked to comeback here three times. Wehave really enjoyed being partof the Marine Corps.”

In the beginning of theirmarriage, 22 years ago,Melissa knew nothing aboutthe Corps, now she said shecan’t imagine life without it.

“The hardest part is that

we are so used to the MarineCorps,” Melissa said. “It’shard to leave, it’s been a greatexperience. No regrets.”

Norquist will be returningto his home in Echo, Ore.,with his wife Melissa anddaughters Ashley and Emily.

In his last farewell to theNorquists, Clardy reassuredthem that they will always bea part of the Corps’ long andhonorable legacy.

“As the Commandantsaid, ‘Once a Marine always aMarine,’” he said. “You don’thave retired Marines. Eventhough you don’t happen tobe wearing the uniform any-more, you’re still a Marine.”



Combat Center commanding general Brigadier Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, the retiring officerfor Lt. Col. Brent Norquist, presents the Norquist family with a letter of appreciation duringNorquist’s retirement ceremony at the Combat Center flag pole June 10.


Lieutenant Col. Brent Norquist says farewell to his friendsand Marines during his retirement ceremony at theCombat Center flag pole June 10.

RETIRES, from A4

area,” said Blankenbicker.Another advantage of

using the tablet over tradi-tional maps is the pilots’ability to mold its functionsto whichever platform theyare flying, he said.

“We are not forced to useonly one or two configurationsor applications for the entire

Wing,” said Blankenbicker.“The iPads can be tailoredto each platform. The abilityto remain flexible is whathas made innovations likethis so useful.”

The aviators said the iPaddidn’t enter the fight inAfghanistan as a headquar-ters-driven initiative, but wasinstead an implementation bya pilot, for pilots. Captain Jim

“Hottie” Carlson, an AH-1WCobra pilot, with MarineLight Attack HelicopterSquadron 369, thought ofand implemented the ideaduring his Afghanistandeployment as a way to savetime and space.

“This was something that apilot came up with through hisown initiative,” said Christman.“It was definitely one of those

situations where necessity is themother of all invention.”

“The use of the iPad byMarine aviators is now sanc-tioned by the Marine Corps,”said Lt. Col. Matthew Mowery,the commanding officer ofHMLA-267. “Naval AirSystems Command was veryskeptical initially but now theyhave looked at the programand authorized us to do it.”

Though many aviatorsagree the iPad is an improve-ment over traditional charts,some aircrew members andpilots have noticed limitationsand difficulties associatedwith its use.

AH-1W Cobra pilot 1stLt. Justin Reinwand and UH-IY Huey crew chief Cpl. EricMonroe, both deployed withHMLA-267 from CampPendleton, Calif., said onesetback they have noticed isthat just as with most elec-tronic devices, the iPad willeventually run out of powerif not charged.

“Something based on thissystem specifically designedfor what we are utilizing itfor would be even better,”said Christman. “It doesn’treally work the way wewould like it to ideally, butwe are making it work howwe need it to because thereis no other convenientalternative.”

Blankenbicker’s initial

impressions were positiveand have remained positivethroughout the eight monthshe has used the tablet.

“My first thought was,‘Brilliant. That makes perfectsense,’” said Blankenbicker.“They fit perfectly into thisenvironment. Even with hav-ing never used one, it wasapparent that there were end-less advantages.”

“After eight months intheater, all of the close airsupport operators continueto come up with more andmore ideas about how iPadscan be further used,” headded. “We learn as we goand expect those that takeour place to improve whatwe have now.”

Connect with 2nd MarineAircraft Wing (Forward)throughout the deployment.Stay up to date with the lat-est 2nd MAW (Fwd.) news,photos and videos athttp://www.facebook.com/2ndmawfwd.

IPAD, from A4


AADDVVEERRTTIISSEEMMEENNTT

TThhee ddeeaaddlliinnee ffoorr ssuubbmmiittttiinnggTTrraaddeerr AAddss iiss nnoooonn WWeeddnneessddaayy,,ffoorr tthhee uuppccoommiinngg FFrriiddaayy’’ss nneewwss--ppaappeerr..Trader Ad forms are available at the Public

Affairs Office and may be filled out duringnormal working hours at Bldg. 1417. Ads

may also be submitted through e-mail, butwill only be accepted from those with [email protected] address. If you are active duty,retired military or a family member and donot have an @usmc.mil address you can goto the PAO page of the base Web site at:http://www.29palms. usmc.mil /dirs/pao/

and complete a request to publish an ad.The limitations for ads are: 15-word limit,

limit of two ads per household and theTrader may be used only for noncommercialclassified ads containing items of personalproperty offered by and for individualsauthorized to use this service. Such ads must

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To have a “House For Sale” ad run in theObservation Post, applicants must provide

Permanent Change of Station orders andhave the ad approved by Base Housing. Thisensures the Combat Center Trader is notused for commercial real estate endeavors.

Ads are run on a first-come, first-serve,space available basis. If you have questionsplease call 830-6213.

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SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

Private First Class Ethan Lallier, a student with MarineCorps Communication-Electronics School, and singerwith a local group, Shoebox Memories, pours out hisheart in song form during the fifth annual Marines GotTalent at Sunset Cinema Saturday.

Lance Cpl. Shakiem Smith,an administrative clerk withHeadquarters and ServiceCompany, 3rd Battalion,7th Marine Regiment.Smith and his friendentered a musical numberas Johnny Thunder andBobby Lightning.

Some audience memberssaw the performance as tyingeveryone together.

“I think it is somethingthat needs to be done,”said Lance Cpl. ScottSutton, a small arms tech-nician with Headquartersand Service Co., 3/7. “Itbrings out people from the[Combat Center] and theoutside community.”

Sutton supported hisfellow 3/7 Marines fromthe audience.

After the last group’s per-formance ended, a panel of

five judges from MCCS andSMP rated entries based onfirst impression, stage pres-ence, talent and audience par-ticipation, said Lora Cowan,the coordinator for SMP.

Coming in third place withhis acoustic guitar was Cpl.Andrew Hobbs, with MarineCorps Communication-Electronics School. Snatchinga close second, playing thebagpipes in traditionalScottish garb was Pfc. T. J.Wise, with HeadquartersBattalion.

However good the musicnumbers were, a non-musicalact was the one that struckthe perfect note with thejudges. Corporal Lester Bose,a personnel clerk withHeadquarters Battalion, stolethe spotlight and first placewith his mad dance skills.

For more informationon upcoming SMP events,call 830-4767.

TALENT, from A3

June 17, 2011 Since 1957 Vol. 54 B SECTION

Pain visits theCombat Center,

page B3

A player with the National League sprints to first as the shortstop with the American League rushes to second withthe ball during the sixth annual Commanding General’s Intramural All-Star Softball games at Felix Field Tuesday.

Charles Binkley, a player with the National League, slides into second base during the sixth annual CommandingGeneral’s Intramural All-Star Softball games at Felix Field Tuesday.

Dennis Romo, with American League, slams a ball deep intothe outfield during the sixth annual Commanding General’sIntramural All-Star Softball games at Felix Field Tuesday.

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

Marines, sailors and civilians from all of the CommandingGeneral’s Intramural Softball League teams banded together tocompete in the fifth annual Intramural All-Star Softball gamesat Felix Field Tuesday.

The all-star games are held to recognize the top players inthe league and encourage teamwork among the players, saidRandy Husted, a sports director with the Marine CorpsCommunity Services Sports Department. The players weredivided into two teams, the American League and the NationalLeague, and played two games to ensure all the players had achance to participate.

“It [helps create] camaraderie. We have civilians andMarines from six to seven teams on one team, and we rep-resent almost every unit on the base,” said Kris Brake, aplayer with the American League.

Once the games began, the American League shot to anearly lead.

“In the first game, the American League got 13 runs at thestart, and that set the stage for the game,” Husted said. “TheNational League came back, but it was not enough to over-come the 13-run difference.”

The second game, however, was neck-and-neck with both teamsgaining the lead throughout the innings.

“The first game was a blow out, but the second was backand forth, and that is what we like in softball,” Brake said.“It’s great because who wants to go to an all-star game andhave it be a blow out?”

As the game continued, and the competition intensified,the players’ enjoyment rose steadily.

“It’s great. Everyone is having a great time, and if everyoneis from different intramural teams that shouldn’t affect thegame,” said Edward Linsday, a player with the NationalLeague. What’s important is that everyone is trying to havefun and they are enjoying the game.

In the last few innings of the second game the AmericanLeague pulled ahead and claimed victory for both games.

The regular season of the softball league has come to a close,but the playoffs begin Monday with the top eight teams goinghead-to-head for the top spot.

All-star games challenge top players


A player from the Twentynine Palms base soccer team [left] and a play-er from the Challenger Football Club fight to save the ball at the line andgain possession of it during a scrimmage at Felix Field Wednesday. TheChallenger FC came from England to teach youth soccer on the CombatCenter and challenged the base team to a friendly duel.

Marines, Great Britian face off on soccer battlefield


Nick Kwiatech, a player for the Twentynine Palms base soccer team, scores a goal with a head-er during a scrimmage against the Challenger Football Club of England Wednesday at FelixField. This goal was a rare accomplishment for Kwiatch because he usually plays defense.


A player from the Twentynine Palmsbase soccer team [right] and a playerfrom the Challenger Football Club fightfor possession of the ball during ascrimmage Wednesday at Felix Field.

EEMMIILLYY AANNDDEERRSSOONN

The Goalkeeper for the Challengers Football Clubdives to save the ball just after a player from theTwentynine Palms base soccer team shoots it during ascrimmage Wednesday at Felix Field.

NNEEIILL PPOONNDDAMERICAN PROFILE

“Kung Fu Panda 2”Starring Jack Black, AngelinaJolie and Jackie ChanRated PG

In a summer alreadycrammed with sequels, JackBlack and his “Kung FuPanda” cohorts set off fora second adventure, thistime in 3-D.

Black is perfectly cast asthe voice of Po, the roly-polyprotagonist of the title,squaring off against a power-mad peacock (Gary Oldman)with an evil pyrotechnic plan– and holding onto a terriblesecret about Po’s past.

The A-list cast from thefirst “Panda” (2008) is allaboard. Angelina Jolie(Tigress), Jackie Chan(Monkey), Seth Rogan(Mantis), Lucy Liu (Viper)and David Cross (Crane)again provide the voices ofPo’s formidable kung-fucomrades, the Furious Five.Dustin Hoffman reprises hisrole as the wise martial artsmaster Shifu, coaching Poalong his path to powerthrough self-awareness.

The spectacular sets, of

an ancient Chinese wonder-land populated entirely byanimals, teem with color,texture and detail, oftenmaking you forget you’rewatching animated back-drops instead of the realdeal. The frenetic actionscenes zig, zag and zip,sometimes so fast it’s diffi-cult for the eyes to keep up.The characters all have dis-tinct personalities that comethrough in their movements,facial expressions and dialog.

Although there’s nothinginappropriate for kids, par-ents should know that this

“Panda” is a bit darker thanits predecessor, perhaps acalculated attempt to nudgePo and his exploits into themore grownup cinematicterritory of “Lord of theRings” or Harry Potter. Thesubplot, about Po’s searchfor answers to his unknownpast, provides a rich emo-tional hook – and a definitesetup for yet another sequel.

Like the best animatedmovies, this one works wellon multiple levels. Childrenwill giggle at the antics of Poand his pals, cheer on thehyperactive fight scenes, andcower as Oldman’s dastardlypeacock, Shen, readies hisdark, menacing army ofwolves and gorillas for battle.

Grownups will appreciatethe movie’s heart-tuggingmessages about family in

Po’s quest to find out wherehe’s from, how he came tohave a goose for an adoptedfather, and what happenedto his real parents.

And anyone with anantenna for symbolism andsocial relevance will pick upthe signals in the movie’sdepiction of how colorfulfireworks, things of beautyand wonder intended for cel-ebration, are transformed intoweapons of mass destructionby the sinister Shen.

The storyline often feelslike it’s following a bit tooclosely to Hollywood’s famil-iar build-a-plot playbook,but “Panda 2” packs morethan enough personality andvisual pizzazz to make upfor those shortcomings.

Chopsticks for your pop-corn, anyone?

BB22 JJUUNNEE 1177,, 22001111 OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt

Liber t y Call

Lower Desert

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

PPeetteerr MMuurrpphhyy wwiitthh MMiicchhaaeell SShhaappiirrooPlaying a mix of jazz, blues and rockWhen: 8 p.m., Friday, June 17PPrreessttoonn SSmmiitthh && TThhee FFuunnkkyy CCrrooccooddiilleessThe alternative rockers performWhen: 8 p.m., Saturday, June 18Where: 53688 Pioneertown Road, PioneertownFor more information, call 365-5956 or visit http://www.pappyandharriets.com.

WWiilllliiee BBooyy’’ss WWeeeekkeenndd LLiinnee--UUpp::TTrraaiinn WWrreecckkThe popular southern rock band performsWhen: 7 to 10 p.m., Friday, June 18GGhhoosstt TTrraaiinn The popular psychedelic rock/folk band performsWhen: 9 p.m., Saturday, June 11Where: Willie Boy’s Saloon and Dance Hall, 50048 Twentynine Palms Highway, Morongo Valley For more information, call 363-3343 or visit http://www.willieboys.com.

SSuummmmeerr MMoovviieess iinn LLuucckkiiee PPaarrkkHow to Train Your DragonWhen: 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 23Where: Luckie Park near the corner of Utah Trail and JoeDavis Drive in Twentynine Palms on the north-facing wall ofthe racquetball courts.

TThhee DDoooobbiiee BBrrootthheerrssThe famous classic rock band perform their hitsWhen: 6:45 p.m., Saturday, June 18Where: Morongo Casino Resort and Spa49500 Seminole Drive, CabazonFor more information call 800-252-4499 or visithttp://www.morongocasinoresort.com.

RRooddnneeyy CCaarrrriinnggttoonnThe comedian, actor, singer performsWhen: 9 p.m., Friday, June 24Where: Morongo Casino Resort and Spa49500 Seminole Drive, CabazonFor more information call 800-252-4499 or visithttp://www.morongocasinoresort.com.

TThhee LLiippiizzzzaanneerr SSttaalllliioonnssA dazzling troupe of horses and riders performWhen: 2 and 6 p.m., Sunday, July 24Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, IndioFor more information call 800-827-2946 or visithttp://www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Sunset Cinema

Local Events

EExxccuurrssiioonnss EEnnlliisstteedd CClluubbFriday: Honor Your Father T-shirt Night. Social Hour withfood, 5 to 7 p.m. DJ Gjettblaque, 8 to 11 p.m., Ladies NIghtSaturday: Request Night with DJ Gjettblaque 8-11 p.m.Thursday: Social Hour, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

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

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

CCoommbbaatt CCeenntteerr OOffffiicceerrss’’ CClluubbMonday-Friday: All-hands lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Monday: Steak night, 5 to 8 p.m.Thursday: Taco Night, 5 to 7 p.m.

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

Combat Center Clubs

FFrriiddaayy,, JJuunnee 1177 6 p.m. – Rio, Rated G9 p.m. – Soul Surfer, Rated PGMidnight – Madea’s Big Happy Family, Rated PG-13SSaattuurrddaayy,, JJuunnee 118811 a.m. – FFrreeee MMaattiinneeee.. Justin Bieber, Rated G2 p.m. – Hoodwinked Too, Rated PG6 p.m. – Water for Elephants, Rated PG-139 p.m. – Fast Five, Rated PG-13Midnight – Scream 4, Rated RSSuunnddaayy,, JJuunnee 11992 p.m. – Prom, Rated PG6 p.m. – Something Borrowed, Rated PG-139 p.m. – Thor, Rated PG-13MMoonnddaayy,, JJuunnee 22007 p.m. – Rio, Rated GTTuueessddaayy,, JJuunnee 22117 p.m. – Fast Five, Rated PG-13WWeeddnneessddaayy,, JJuunnee 22227 p.m. – Soul Surfer, Rated PGTThhuurrssddaayy,, JJuunnee 22337 p.m. – Scream 4, Rated R

All-star cast of familiar voices returns

CCOOUURRTTEESSYY PPHHOOTTOO

“Kung Fu Panda” is set in a 3-D ancient Chinese wonderland populated entirely by animals. The action scenes zig,zag and zip, sometimes so fast it’s difficult for the eyes to keep up.

Jack Black is the voice of Po, the roly-poly protagonist of the title, squaring off againsta power-mad peacock, played by Gary Oldman, who is holding onto a terrible secretabout Po’s past. Dustin Hoffman reprises his role as the wise martial arts master, Shifu,coaching Po along his path to power through self-awareness.

CCOOUURRTTEESSYY PPHHOOTTOO

The A-list cast from the first “Panda” is back on board.Angelina Jolie voices Tigress, Jackie Chan voicesMonkey, Seth Rogan is Mantis, Lucy Liu voices Viperand David Cross is the Crane, making up Po’s formida-ble kung-fu comrades, the Furious Five.

OOBBSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN PPoosstt JJUUNNEE 1177,, 22001111 BB33

Mitfits out-match 3rd CEB for championshipLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. DD.. JJ.. WWUUCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

The Combat Center’s vol-leyball season culminatedwith the CommandingGeneral’s IntramuralVolleyball League Finals atthe West Gym and FitnessCenter June 7.

The finals were betweenthe league’s two top teams,Tanks Misfits and 3rd CEB.

3rd CEB went undefeat-ed during the regular season,including defeating TanksMisfits. The Tanks Misfits’loss to 3rd CEB was theironly one of the season, andthe championship was theirchance for vengeance.

The combination ofhigh-caliber skill and a sharpsense of competition led

these two teams to thechampionship game.

“I’m very proud of myteam,” said Steven Santana,the coach and a player forTanks Misfits. “We actuallyplay like a team.”

The teams played theirhardest and made it anextremely close championship.

Much of the match sawboth teams within a singlepoint of each other.

3rd CEB took the first inthe match, and Tanks Misfitstook the second. The matchand ultimate victory camedown to a third and decisive,tie-breaking game.

With yearlong braggingrights in sight, neither team letoff of the heat. But, it was

See MISFITS, B4

LLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. DD..JJ.. WWUU

Tanks Misfits pose with Brig. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy, the Combat Center’s commanding general, and the championshiptrophy ending the Commanding General’s Intramural Volleyball League at the Gym and Fitness Center June 7.

MMA fight brings entertaining show to MarinesSSTTOORRYY AANNDD PPHHOOTTOOSS BBYYLLAANNCCEE CCPPLL.. SSAARRAAHH DDIIEETTZZCOMBAT CORRESPONDENT

The Combat Center playedhost to a show of skill,strength and sportsmanshipduring the Mixed MartialArts Tournament June 10 atFelix Field.

The combination ofcaged men beating eachother to a pulp and BudLight girls mingling withthe crowd made it the per-fect night to hang out withfriends and watch a fightwith a cold one in hand.

For the fighters, enter-taining their Marine audi-ence was an honor, saidPaul “Golden Bear” Garcia,a fighter on the blue teamand former army soldier.

“I’m glad that we arehere; it takes me back towhen I was in the service,”Garcia said. “I think it’s agreat privilege to be here.”

A judge for the night,Mike Beltran, a formerMarine, said he was excitedto be back on a MarineCorps base and felt right athome.

“I love being here,”Beltran said. “I would doanything for [the Marines].They are the real warriors.”

Like during any fight,nerves were high and pureadrenaline seemed to dripoff the faces of every fight-er in the cage.

“Win or lose, I’m stillgoing to be able to hit

somebody tonight,” saidJonathan Wagner, a fighteron the red team, and aMarine with 3rd Battalion,7th Marine Regiment.

Seven amateur fightsalso kept the crowd roaringall evening.

For the fighters and thestaff, the event was morethan just a night of enter-tainment, but also a chanceto give back and say ‘thankyou’ for Marines’ service.

“If you have the courageto put on the uniform andstep into the ring, youdeserve respect,” Garciasaid. “I love these guys. Weare going to put on a goodshow for them.”

For more informationon upcoming events, visitthe Marine Corps

Community Services web-site at http://www.mccs29palms.com.

Fighters pin each other up against the cage in the heatof the fight during the Mixed Martial Arts Tournament atFelix Field June 10. The fighters were from various partsof California, and the tournament was not restricted tojust military personnel.

A fighter high fives the audience before entering the cage to face his opponent duringthe Mixed Martial Arts tournament at Felix Field June 10.

Opponents battle it out in the cage as hundreds of specta-tors aboard the Combat Center cheer them on during aMixed Martial Arts Tournament at Felix Field June 10.Therewere seven amateur fights of the night.

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Athlete of the WeekNNaammee:: Nick KwiatekUUnniitt:: Mojave Viper SupportDetachmentHHoommeettoowwnn:: Orland Park, Ill.RReeccooggnniittiioonn:: A player onthe Combat Center’s basesoccer team and team captainfor the game.PPoossiittiioonn:: Sweeper/ DefenseWWhhaatt iiss yyoouurr ffaavvoorriittee ppaarrttooff tthhee ssppoorrtt??:: “I like com-petition, going out, givingyour all to win. Also, brag-ging rights come with it.”WWhhaatt wwaass tthhee hhaarrddeesstt ppaarrtt ooff mmiixxiinngg yyoouurrMMaarriinnee CCoorrppss aanndd ssoocccceerr ccaarreeeerr??:: “I’ve playedsince I was five. When I got into the Marine Corps, Itook five years off of soccer because I was in 1stBattalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and couldn’t get timeoff of work toplay. The hardestpart was comingback after fiveyears off andgetting back inthe game. It waslike riding a biketo me, it felt nat-ural, and I wasback in no time.”DDoo yyoouu hhaavveeaannyy aaddvviiccee ttooaannyy aassppiirriinnggaatthhlleetteess??::“Don’t give up.Soccer is tiring,and a lot oftimes you wantto slow down.Keep going andkeep fightinguntil the end.”

Tanks Misfits who eventually came out ontop by a slim two-point margin, 15-13.

Even in defeat, Ryan Anderson, coachof 3rd CEB said that his team did well, andhe “couldn’t ask for much more.”

“It just shows that even if you lose inthe championship you can still appreciatethat ride that got you there,” he said.

MISFITS, from B3

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Danielle McKeever, a player with TanksMisfits, serves up the ball during theCommanding General’s IntramuralVolleyball League Championships at theWest Gym and Fitness Center June 7.

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Both 3rd CEB and Tanks Misfits fought hard in the Commanding General’sIntramural Volleyball League Championships at the West Gym andFitness Center June 7. This jump block combo shows how evenlymatched both teams were throughout the season.

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