FOURTEENTH ANNUAL - USMC



SIXTEENTH ANNUALREUNIONOF THEMARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION CAMP PENDLETON, CA15-17 OCTOBER, 2008SCHEDULE15 OCT, WED: 1700- 2100 REGISTRATION & WELCOME ABOARD SOCIAL; FLYING BRIDGE RESTAURANT; BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE16 OCT, THURS: 0800-1300 BUSINESS MEETING & BRIEFINGS; FLYING BRIDGE RESTAURANT; BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE1300 - 1800 OPEN TIME 1800 – GUEST OF HONOR & AWARD RECIPIENTS= PHOTOS-SVC A; SOUTH MESA SNCO CLUB, CAMP PENDLETON1800 – COCKTAIL HOUR, SVC A UNIFORM; COAT & TIE / EVENING ATTIRE FOR THE LADIES; SOUTH MESA SNCO CLUB, CAMP PENDLETON1900 – BANQUET & AWARDS17 OCT, FRI: 0800-1600, TOUR OF CAMP PENDLETON & ENGR UNITS; LUNCH AT MESS HALL (CASH PAYMENT REQUIRED)18 Oct, Sat : Open time for individual toursPRESIDENT’S MESSAGEOn behalf of our Marine Corps Engineer Association, WELCOME TO ONE & ALL!!For the 16th time, we come together to visit with our fellow Marines, shipmates, families and friends. In addition, we look forward to meeting new people, swapping war stories, sharing our pictures, memories and making new acquaintances.As we’ve done since 1998, we recognize the “Best of the Best” Marine Corps Engineers and EOD. We will also recognize the other half of our Marine Corps/Navy team-the “Outstanding Naval Construction Force Unit.” We offer our most heartfelt congratulations to all the individual and unit winners. You have our utmost respect for what you have done and continue to do in support of our Beloved Nation.We offer our genuine appreciation to Dr. Bob Wolff, Executive Director of The Society of American Military Engineers, for paying the banquet fees for each award recipient and a guest!?We also will pause to remember & recognize our members who are no longer with us and who have been added to our Honor Roll; GOD bless them and their loved ones. Reunions are a significant part of our Corps’ traditions. By maintaining the bonds forged in battle and gathering together to reminisce and to honor those who are no longer with us, we stay true to the ethos we Marines live by.Please enjoy yourselves and if we can do anything to assist you during the reunion, just let your Executive Committee members know; especially me!!!GOD Bless you all;Semper Fidelis,Ken FrantzCol USMC (Ret)President Major General Thomas D. WaldhauserCommanding General, 1st Marine DivisionMajor General Thomas D. Waldhauser assumed command as the Commanding General, 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA in September, 2007.Major General Waldhauser graduated from Bemidji State University in 1976. Upon graduation he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. His first assignment was with 1st Marine Division where he served with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. From 1980 to 1984 Captain Waldhauser was assigned as the Commanding Officer, Marine Detachment, USS Long Beach (CGN-9) and subsequently served on the staff of the Commander, Amphibious Squadron Seven.Reporting to the 2nd Marine Division in 1985, he served as a company commander in 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, and after being promoted to major was assigned as the operations officer for Battalion Landing Team 3/6.In 1988, Major Waldhauser was assigned as a faculty advisor and instructor at the Amphibious Warfare School, Quantico, Va. During this tour, he was a member of the Commander, U.S. Marine Central Command (Forward) staff aboard the USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. In July 1992, Major Waldhauser joined the II Marine Expeditionary Force staff where he served in the G-3 Future Operations Branch.Reporting to the 2nd Marine Division, Lieutenant Colonel Waldhauser assumed command of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment on November 5, 1993. During his tenure, BLT 3/2 deployed with the 26 MEU (SOC) as LF6F 2-94. In 1996, LtCol Waldhauser was assigned to Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as the Section Head, Ground Officer Assignments. In 1998, Colonel Waldhauser was assigned to the Joint Staff Combating Terrorism Directorate (J-34) where his billets included Division Chief and Assistant Deputy Director.He assumed command of the 15th MEU (SOC) on July 24, 2000. During this tour, the 15th MEU (SOC) participated in combat operations in Southern Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom and in Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom.His initial assignment as a Brigadier General from August 2003 to July 2005 was at the Marine Corps Combat Development Command (MCCDC) where he served as the Commanding General, Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory and Deputy Commander, MCCDC.Major General Thomas D. Waldhauser served as the Chief of Staff and Command Support Center Director, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, FL until September 2007.Major General Waldhauser has attended U.S. Army Ranger School, Jumpmaster School, Amphibious Warfare School, Marine Corps Command and Staff College and the National War College where he earned a Masters Degree in National Security Strategies.His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Combat "V", Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with three gold stars, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star.\sThe MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THECOMBAT ENGINEER OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOFIRST LIEUTENANT george saenz, jrUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS PLATOON COMMANDER, COMPANY C AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR MOBILITY ASSAULT COMPANY, 2D COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION, REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM 6, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD) FROM MARCH TO OCTOBER 2007 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP, FIRST LIEUTENANT SAENZ’S PLATOON DISCOVERED 53 IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES AND CLEARED 6,058 KILOMETERS OF ROAD DURING MORE THAN 756 HOURS OF OPERATIONS. ON 28 JUNE, FIRST LIEUTENANT SAENZ’S CONVOY WAS ATTACKED, RESULTING IN A MOBILITY KILL TO HIS VEHICLE. ALTHOUGH DAZED FROM THE BLAST, HE QUICKLY REGAINED HIS COMPOSURE AND EFFECTIVELY QUELLED THE INITIAL CHAOS BY INITIATING THE PLATOON’S ESTABLISHED BATTLE DRILLS FOR AN ATTACK. WHILE THE AREA REMAINED UNDER THREAT, FIRST LIEUTENANT SAENZ DISMOUNTED TO COORDINATE SECURITY AND VEHICLE RECOVERY. UPON HIS RETURN FROM IRAQ, FIRST LIEUTENANT SAENZ CONTINUED TO CONTRIBUTE GREATLY TO THE ENGINEER COMMUNITY WITH HIS WORK DEVELOPING ROUTE CLEARANCE STANDING OPERATIONS PROCEDURES AND DEVELOPING PROGRAMS OF INSTRUCTION FOR TRAINING. FIRST LIEUTENANT SAENZ’S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE. The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THECOMBAT ENGINEER STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSTAFF SERGEANT JOHN KINGUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:HEROIC ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS SQUAD LEADER, TASK FORCE 1ST BATTALION, 2D MARINES, REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM 2, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD) FROM MARCH TO AUGUST 2007 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. ON 2 APRIL, WHILE CONDUCTING A DELIBERATE CACHE SWEEP, STAFF SERGEANT KING’S ENGINEERS DISCOVERED A LARGE ENEMY WEAPONS CACHE ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE EUPHRATES RIVER. AS HIS MARINES BEGAN UNEARTHING THE CACHE THEY WERE ATTACKED BY INTENSE SMALL ARMS, MEDIUM MACHINEGUN AND ROCKET-PROPELLED FIRE. WITHOUT HESITATION, STAFF SERGEANT KING IMMEDIATELY ISSUED ORDERS AND DIRECTED FIRES ONTO THE ENEMY POSITIONS UNTIL THE ATTACK WAS REPELLED. HIS DIRECT ACTIONS PREVENTED MARINE CASUALTIES AND DENIED THE ENEMY ITS ABILITY TO USE THIS WEAPONS CACHE TO ATTACK COALITION FORCES. STAFF SERGEANT KING’S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE. The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THECOMBAT ENGINEER NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSERGEANT NATHAN UTTECHUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:Corporal Uttech served as Platoon Guide, 4th Platoon, Combat Engineer Company, Combat Assault Battalion from June 2007 through October 2007, continuing through a subsequent deployment in support of OIF while attached to Task Force 2/3. During this period he assumed Platoon Sergeant responsibilities for a total of 34 days, covering all of the Platoon’s movements between Okinawa, MCB Hawaii, MCB Twenty-Nine Palms, and Iraq. Serving in both a Staff Sergeant and Gunnery Sergeant billet as a Corporal, he rose to the occasion, both leading and mentoring junior Marines, influencing their training, and tracking their readiness. In Iraq, Corporal Uttech single-handedly received all requests for Engineer projects, and generated and processed 25 Bills of Materials, totaling over $450,000 within the first 60 days of the OIF deployment. He displayed a high level of knowledge and proficiency in his MOS by supervising numerous SWA Hut, checkpoint, and bunker builds as well as concrete and HESCO emplacement outside the wire. He routinely participated in convoys throughout the AO as the commander or assistant commander. He proved himself capable of balancing security and command and control, in addition to the employment of personnel and Engineer equipment. As a Marine who extended his enlistment for a third combat deployment, he always kept a positive, mature and humble approach to his assigned duties, while embracing increased responsibility. Corporal Uttech routinely displayed proficiency and professionalism seldom seen in a Marine of his grade. His dependable and consistent character is worthy of being emulated by junior Marines. Corporal Uttech’s performance reflected great credit upon him and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THECOMBAT ENGINEER MARINE OF THE YEAR AWARD TOCORPORAL EDGAR DIAZUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:For exceptional performance of duties while assigned to Alpha Company, 8TH Engineer Support Battalion, 2D Marine Logistics Group, ii Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Atlantic from 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008. During this period of deployment to OIF 06-08, then Lance Corporal Diaz was a significant force multiplier for Engineer Company, 1ST Platoon in the superb assistance he lent to all the engineer missions he was assigned to. Through his tour, Lance Corporal Diaz operated in Dulab, where he replaced two bunkers and built a 16’X32’ SWA hut, as well as in Baghdadi where he replaced three bunkers and assisted in laying out 3000 linear ft of concertina wire. Lance Corporal Diaz also worked out of Ay Anah, Occatal, Rutbah, FOB Okinawa, and the JCC where he was an essential part to the construction of 12 bunkers, over 220 racks, and over 7500 linear ft of concertina wire. He also assisted in 14 route repair missions leading to 44 craters repaired. Lance Corporal Diaz tackled each mission with tenacious dedication which was an inspiration to all Marines around him. His tireless work ethic and devotion to the missions were outstanding models of leadership and exemplified the Corps’ Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Lance Corporal Diaz’s exemplary conduct and enthusiasm for the engineer missions assigned to him mark him as a superb combat engineer and upon his return he was rightly promoted to Corporal on 1 October, 2007.The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEENGINEER EQUIPMENT OFFICEROF THE YEAR AWARD TOchief warrant officer 3 JOHN KYLERUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT OFFICER HEADQUARTERS AND SERVICE COMPANY AND LOGISTICS OFFICER, TASK FORCE GUARDIAN, 2D COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD) FROM APRIL 2007 TO MARCH 2008 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. DURING THIS PERIOD, CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER KYLER DEMONSTRATED A LEVEL OF PROFESSIONALISM AND FLEXIBILITY SELDOM SEEN IN ANY OFFICER. HIS SKILLFUL MANAGEMENT OF OVER 523 PIECES OF ENGINEER EQUIPMENT RESULTED IN A 95% READINESS RATING. THE PROCESSES HE ESTABLISHED HELPED TO MAINTAIN THE BATTALION’S EQUIPMENT READINESS ABOVE 95% EVEN AFTER HE DEPLOYED TO IRAQ. DESPITE LIMITED RESOURCES IN BOTH MANPOWER AND MATERIAL, HE CONSISTANTLY ROSE TO THE CHALLENGE AND PROVIDED SOLUTIONS WHERE OTHERS HAD NONE. AS THE TASK FORCE GUARDIAN LOGISTICS OFFICER, HE INDEPENDENTLY PLANNED, EMBARKED AND DEPLOYED A BATTALION MINUS SIZED TASK FORCE TO SUPPORT OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. FURTHER, HE IMPROVED THE TASK FORCE’S PERSONNEL SAFETY BY ACQUIRING MINE RESITANT AMBUSH PROTECTED VEHICLES AND ESTABLISHING A LICENSING PROGRAM TO ENSURE PROPER USE. WORKING ON BOTH TACTICAL AND OPERATIONAL SIDES, HE ACTED AS CONVOY COMMANDER FOR THE DELIVERY OF STRUCTURES AND BARRIERS IN SUPPORT OF INDIGENOUS COUNTER-INSURGENCY WATCH CHECK POINTS. HIS EFFORTS PROVIDED PROTECTION AND SECURITY TO LOCAL IRAQI NATIONALS AND WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN BUILDING CONFIDENCE BETWEEN THE COALITION FORCES AND THE LOCAL SUNNI POPULATION. ON THE OPERATIONAL SIDE, HE PROVIDED ADVICE AND ESTIMATES TO THE REGIMENTAL ENGINEER ON EQUIPMENT IMPLEMENTATION AND TACTICAL HEAVY EQUIPMENT SUPPORT. CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 KYLER’S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS. The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING the ENGINEER EQUIPMENT STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICEROF THE YEAR AWARD TOGUNNERY SERGEANT ARMANDO QUINTANILLAUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:MERITORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT WHILE SERVING AS MAINTENANCE CHIEF, CHARLIE COMPANY, 1ST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION, REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM 5, I MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FORWARD, FROM JULY 2007 TO APRIL 2008, IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. DURING THIS PERIOD, GUNNERY SERGEANT QUINTANILLA’S OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AND TECHNICAL MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT SKILLS WERE INVALUABLE TO THE SUCCESS OF THE COMPANY. HIS DILIGENT EFFORTS IN MANAGING A DYNAMIC MAINTENANCE SHOP RESULTED IN THE PROCESSING OF MORE THAN 400 EQUIPMENT REPAIR ORDERS IN SUPPORT OF MORE THAN 550 PRINCIPAL END ITEMS WHICH GREATLY INCREASED THE COMPANY’S COMBAT READINESS. ADDITIONALLY, GUNNERY SERGEANT QUINTANILLA’S PERSISTANT MAINTENANCE SUPPORT TO THE COMPANY’S ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM PROVIDED THE CAPABILITY TO CONTINUE HIGH TEMPO COMBAT OPERATIONS DESPITE REPEATED ENEMY ATTACKS WHICH CAUSED MOBILITY KILLS ON KEY MINE RESISTANT AMBUSH PROTECTED (MRAP) VEHICLES. GUNNERY SERGEANT QUINTANILLA’S INITITATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.The MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEENGINEER EQUIPMENT NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICEROF THE YEAR AWARD TO SERGEANT JAMES YOUNGUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:PROFESSIONAL SERVICE IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS AN ENGINEER EQUIPMENT PLATOON SERGEANT, 9TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION AND COMBAT LOGISTICS BATTALION 4, 3D MARINE LOGISTIC GROUP, FROM 01 APRIL 2007 TO 30 MARCH 2008. THROUGHOUT THIS PERIOD, SERGEANT YOUNG PERFORMED HIS DEMANDING DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER. HE SUPERVISED HIS PLATOON DURING MULTIPLE HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATION PROJECTS IN PREPARATION FOR DEPLOYMENT AS A PART OF THE FIRST COMBAT LOGISTICS BATTALION TO DEPLOY FROM OKINAWA IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. WHILE IN IRAQ, HIS LEADERSHIP WAS KEY TO THE COMPLETION OF TEN HEAVY EQUIPMENT PROJECTS IN WESTERN IRAQ. ALL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WERE COMPLETED ON TIME AND INCLUDED SURVIVABILITY POSITIONS, COUNTER-MOBILITY OBSTACLES, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENTS FOR EIGHT COMBAT OUTPOSTS AND CAMPS. HIS RESOURCEFULNESS AND UNTIRING EFFORTS RESULTED IN 19,680 CUBIC YARDS OF MATERIAL BEING MOVED, CONSTRUCTION OF 4,415 METERS OF BERM, AND THE EMPLACEMENT OF 526 HESCO CELLS. HIS LEADERSHIP, INSTRUCTION, AND MENTORSHIP OF HIS MARINES ENSURED COMPLETION OF ALL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS AND THE EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF ALL ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS. HIS TIME MANAGEMENT AND PERSEVERANCE LED TO HIS FIRST DEGREE BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR ACHIEVEMENT AND THE CERTIFICATION OF GRAY BELT OR HIGHER FOR EVERY MARINE IN THE COMPANY WHILE DEPLOYED. SERGEANT YOUNG’S CONSTANT LEADERSHIP, PROFESSIONALISM AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECT GREAT CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE. THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEENGINEER EQUIPMENT MARINE OF THE YEAR AWARD TOCORPORAL MATTHEW CLANTONUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, SUPPORT PLATOON, COMPANY C, 2D COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION, REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM 6, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD), FROM APRIL 2007 TO MARCH 2008 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON DEMONSTRATED SUPERIOR INITIATIVE AND SOUND JUDGMENT IN REINFORCING FORCE PROTECTION MEASURES THROUGHOUT THE AREA OF OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF FOUR INFANTRY BATTALIONS, ONE ARMY SQUADRON, AND TWO DISTRICTS OF IRAQI POLICE. LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON OPERATED A D-7 DOZER FOR 14 HOURS LEVELING GROUND TO BUILD A 100 BY 100-FOOT HELICOTER LANDING ZONE. LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON FILLED OVER 100 HESCO BASKETS FOR USE AS GUARDRAILS ON A MILITARY BYPASS ROAD AROUND AN ENTRY CONTROL POINT FOR THE CITY OF FALLUJAH. FROM 16 JUNE TO 6 AUGUST 2007, LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON SUPPORTED 4TH PLATOON, COMPANY C, 2D COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION IN REINFORCING FORCE PROTECTION THROUGHOUT THE CITY OF FALLUJAH BY CLOSING OFF STREETS WITH BARRIERS, BUILDING SEARCH ROOMS FOR SUSPECTED INSURGENTS, DEMILITARIZING FOUR OBSERVATIONS POSTS AND CLOSING GAPS IN WALLS OF OBSERVATION POSTS. LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON WAS AN INSTRUMENTAL ASSET TO COMPANY C DURING PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING BY TEACHING MARINES TO OPERATE HEAVY EQUIPMENT, AS THEY WERE WORKING UP TO RETURN TO IRAQ AGAIN IN MARCH 2008. LANCE CORPORAL CLANTON’S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEUTILITIES OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2 MARCOS JAIME UNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:HIS EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP ABILITIES AND AGGRESSIVE APPROACH TO TRAINING DEVELOPED AN OUTSTANDING UTILITIES PLATOON THAT PERFORMED EXCEPTIONALLY WELL BOTH IN GARRISON AND WHILE OPERATING THROUGHOUT THE AL ANBAR PROVINCE, IRAQ, DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08.2. DURING EXERCISE DESERT TALON 2-07, CWO 2 JAIME SUPERVISED THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ELECTRICAL GRID TO SUPPORT A 400-MAN BASE CAMP, THE PRODUCTION OF 150,000 GALLONS OF POTABLE WATER, AND MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL PROJECTS IN SUPPORT OF YUMA PROVING GROUNDS, SAVING THE FACILITY OVER $12,000. DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, HE FACILITATED OVER 40 CRITICAL UTILITIES MISSIONS OUTSIDE OF FRIENDLY LINES IN SUPPORT OF MILITARY AND POLICE TRANSITION TEAMS, AND MULTIPLE GOUND COMBAT ELEMENT UNITS LOCATED WITHIN THE FALLUJAH AND RAMADI CORRIDOR. THESE MISSIONS SPANNED THE ENTIRE GAMUT OF UTILITIES FUNCTIONS, TO INCLUE ELECTRICAL, HYGIENE, AND AIR CONDITIONING WORK AT ENTRY CONTROL POINTS, JOINT SECURITY STATIONS, COMBAT OUTPOSTS, AND IRAQI POLICE STATIONS. IN ADDITION TO THE WORK PERFORMED OUTSIDE OF FRIENDLY LINES, CWO 2 JAIME AND HIS PLATOON WORKED OVER 20 SIGNIFICANT UTILITIES PROJECTS ABOARD CAMP AL TAQADDUM AND PROVIDED EXTENSIVE ELECTRICAL MARINE LOGISTICS GROUP UNITS. CWO 2 JAIME’S QUICK THINKING AND UNCOMMON CAPACITY TO MANAGE NUMEROUS SIMULTANEOUS OPERATIONS WAS THE PRIMARY FACTOR ALLOWING THE SQUADRON TO TACKLE MANY UTILITIES INTENSIVE GNERAL ENGINEEERING MISSIONS. HE WAS THE IMPETUS FOR ALL UTILITIES ACTIVITiES AND A MODEL FOR SUBORDINATE MARINES TO EMULATE. HIS OPERATIONAL AND MAINTENANCE RECoRDS WERE IMPECCABLE, AND HIS PLATOON HAD A PROFOUND POSITIVE OPERATIONAL IMPACT BOTH ON CAMP AL TAQADDUM TENANT UNITS AND ON UNITS THROUGHTOUT THE AL ANBAR PROVINCE. CWO 2 JAIME’S INITIATIVE, PERSERVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTEd CREDIT UPON HIM AND UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE. HE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEUTILITIES STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOGUNNERY SERGEANT PAUL WILCOXUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF DUTY WHILE SERVING AS UTILITIES STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER IN CHARGE, MARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON 272, MARINE WING SUPPORT GROUP 27, FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. GUNNERY SERGEANt WILCOX WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE SQUADRON’S SUCCESSFUL EXECUTION OF ESSENTIAL ENGINEER SERVICES AND DISPLAyED THE HIGHEST LEVES OF INITIATIVE. HE PROCURED OVER $150,000 IN CRITICAL MATERIALS AT NO COST TO THE UNIT. HE PLANNED AND SUPERVISED 321 MISSIONS OUTSIDE FRIENDLY LINES IN SUPPORT OF GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT UNTIS AT FORWARD OPERATING BASES, COMBAT OUTPOSTS, AND JOINT SECURITY STATIONS THROUGHOUT AL ANBAR PROVINCE. HE LED 29 MARINES FROM THE COMPANY IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF COMBAT OUTPOST TIGER, TO INCLUDE INSTALLING A NEW ELECTRICAL INFRASTRUCTurE TO 64 ROOMS IN FIVE BUILDINGS. HE SUPPORTED MULTIPLE CAMP AL TAQADDUM TENANT UNITS BY PLANNING AND SUPERVISING 25 PROJECTS THAT DRASTICALLY IMPROVED THEIR CAPABILITIES. GUNNERY SERGEANT WILCOX’S INITIATIVE, PERSERVERANCE AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFELCTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEUTILITIES NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSERGEANT CHARLES TRAINERUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:SERVING AS UTILITIES CHIEF, HEADQUARTERS AND SERVICE COMPANY, 9TH COMMUNICATION BATTALION FORWARD, I MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE HEADQUARTERS GROUP, MULTI NATIONAL FORCE - WEST, FROM APRIL 2007 TO MARCH 2008 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 08.1. SERGEANT TRAINER SUPERBLY MANAGED A GUNNERY SERGEANT’S BILLET THROUGHOUT THE DEPLOYMENT. HIS most significant contribution was the evaluation and repair on 120 and 240 volt electrical grids for the critical communication equipment WITHIN The 9th Communication Battalion compound. Sergeant Trainer drastically improved the safety of all Marines in the camp by reducing the risk of electrical hazards AND fire through repair or replacement of safety devices, breakers, grounds, overloaded circuits, and uncovered breaker boxes. He supervised and planned the interior wiring of 3 semi-permanent wooden structures two of which were built from the ground up. He completed the rewiring of six structures, and repairs to over 25 other structures HOUSING ESSENTIAL COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS SUPPORTING COMBAT OPERATIONS. Sergeant Trainer was instrumental in developing and organizing a 24-hour generator watch WHICH SUPPORTED THE LARGEST COMMUNICATION NETWORK IN THE HISTORY OF THE MARINE CORPS. HE implemented procedures FOR ACTIONS THAT responded to MORE THAN 175 trouble calls and maintenance requests WiTh AN AVERAGE RESPONSE time OF LESS THAN 2 MINUTES. HIS EFFORTS DIRECTLY CONTRIBUTED TO SUCCESSFUL coUNTER inSURGENCY, SECURITY AND STABILITY, AND COMBAT OPERATIONS IN THE AL ANBAR PROVINCE, IRAQ. SERGEANT TRAINER’S INITIATIVE, AND COMPLETE DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE. THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEUTILITIES MARINE OF THE YEAR AWARD TOLANCE CORPORAL MICHAEL STILLFRIEDUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:SERVING AS REFRIGERATION MECHANIC, SERVICE PLATOON, HEADQUARTERS AND SERVICE COMPANY, 9TH COMMUNICATION BATTALION, I MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE HEADQUARTERS GROUP, MULTI NATIONAL FORCE - WEST, FROM APRIL 2007 TO MARCH 2008 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 08.1. LANCE CORPORAL STILLFRIED’S TECHNICAL SKILLS ARE THAT OF A SEASONED NCO AND GO WELL BEYOND THE SCOPE OF A LANCE CORPORAL. HE SUCCESSFULLY installed and maintained over two hundred civilian and tactical environmental control units in the Iraq Theater of operation, to include Middle Eastern units THAT HAD NO REPAIR manuals. He coordinated efforts with civilian counter parts and adjacent units to procure hard to obtain parts or special tools and components for environmental control units, thus increasing the readiness of tactical and civilian air conditioners. His ingenuity became apparent when the need arose to locate repair parts for the Alternate Commercial Technical Control Facility (ATCF) after diagnosing faulty air conditioner units. LANCE Corporal STILLFRIED identified the problem and quickly repaired the units. In doing so, he mitigated catastrophic failure WITHIN the CRITICAL C4I network supporting Multi national force - west, command and control capability, THE LARGEST COMMUNICATION NETWORK IN THE HISTORY OF THE MARINE CORPS AND CURRENTLY SUPPORTING COUNTER INSURGENCY, SECURITY AND STABILITY, AND COMBAT OPERATIONS IN THE AL ANBAR PROVINCE, IRAQ. LANCE CORPORAL STILLFRIED’S INITIATIVE AND COMPLETE DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEBULK FUEL OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOCHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 MICHAEL NEILLUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS A BULK FUEL OFFICER, 9TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION, 3D MARINE LOGISTICS GROUP, 3D MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE, FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 NEILL LED HIS MARINES WITH PRIDE AND PROFESSIONALISM ISSUING OVER 3,700,000 GALLONS OF AVIATION FUEL TO OVER 14,000 AIRCRAFT VIA TACTICAL REFUELING SYSTEMS AND MOBILE REFUELING TANKERS WHILE DEPLOYED TO CAMP AL TAQADDUM DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08. HE ESTABLISHED OVER 90% READINESS RATES ON ALL PRINCIPLE END ITEMS, AND TRACKED ALL DAILY CUMULATIVE FUEL TRANSFERS AT CAMP AL TAQADDUM AND CAMP KOREAN VILLAGE. UPON HIS RETURN FROM IRAQ AND SUBSEQUENT TRANSFER TO OKINAWA, JAPAN, CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 NEILL COORDINATED ADMINISTRATIVE AND LOGISTICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR BULK FUEL COMPANY BEFORE AND DURING A DEPLOYMENT TO KOREA FOR KOREAN INTEROPERABILTY TRAINING PROGRAM 08-2. HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL DURING THE TRAINING OF BOTH HIS MARINES AND REPUBLIC OF KOREA (ROK) MARINES IN ALL ASPECTS OF TACTICAL FUEL SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION, HOSE REEL SYSTEM DEPLOYMENT, AND HOSE LINE EMPLOYMENT DICTATED BY TERRAIN. AT THE ROK NAVAL BASE CHINHAE, KOREA, IN SUPPORT OF A JOINT-SERVICES OFFSHORE PETROLEUM DISCHARGE SYSTEM EXERCISE (OPDS), HIS EFFORTS LED TO A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL TEST THAT ALLOWED THE NEW OPDS SHIP, THE MV WHEELER, TO MAXIMIZE ITS PUMPING CAPAPILITY FROM SHIP-TO-SHORE. HE WAS ALSO HAND-PICKED TO PROVIDE DETAILED BRIEFS ON TACTICAL FUEL SYSTEM CAPABILITIES TO VARIOUS INTERNATIONAL MEDIA COMPANYS AND OVER 70 AMERICAN AND KOREAN DISTINGUISHED VISITORS. BY HIS ENTHUSIASM, PROFESSIONALISM, AND UNWAVERING DEVOTION TO DUTY, CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 3 NEILL UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEBULK FUEL STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSTAFF SERGEANT JASON SARGENTUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS A BULK FUEL STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER, 9TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION, 3D MARINE LOGISTICS GROUP, 3D MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE, U.S. MARINE FORCES PACIFIC FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. INITIALLY ASSIGNED AS THE TRAINING CHIEF FOR COMBAT LOGISTICS BATTALION-4 (CLB-4), STAFF SERGEANT SARGENT WAS CHARGED WITH COORDINATING ALL PREDEPLOYMENT TRAINING REQUIREMENTS, UTILIZING RANGES AND TRAINING AREAS THROUGHOUT OKINAWA, JAPAN, AND DURING A MOJAVE VIPER EXERCISE IN TWENTY-NINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA. AFTER DEPLOYING TO CAMP AL ASAD, IRAQ, IN AUGUST 2007, HE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DAILY READINESS AND EMPLOYMENT OF ALL BULK FUEL AND UTILITIES MISSIONS IN DIRECT SUPPORT OF CLB-4 AND REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAM-2. HE CONDUCTED SIGHT SURVEYS AT COP ELLIS AND HADITHA DAM AND DEVISED A PLAN THAT ALLOWED BOTH LOCATIONS TO SUSTAIN REFUELING OPERATIONS TWICE AS LONG AS PREVIOUS CAPABILITIES PERMITTED. BY INCREASING THE STORAGE CAPACITY AT COP-ELLIS, CLB-4 WAS ABLE TO PUSH FUEL TO THE LOCATION EVERY TWO TO THREE WEEKS INSTEAD OF WEEKLY, PERMITTING CLB-4 TO CONCENTRATE ITS WEEKLY FUEL PUSH TO HADITHA AND SAVING THE BATTALION 100 HOURS OF LABOR AND CONVOY TIME EVERY MONTH. ADDITIONALLY, STAFF SERGEANT SARGENT COORDINATED WITH MARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON-473 AND THE AL ASAD FIRE DEPARTMENT TO TRAIN MARINES IN BASIC FIRE-FIGHTING PROCEDURES IN ORDER TO CREATE A REACTION TEAM THAT COULD RESPOND TO BURNED FUEL TANKERS ENCOUNTERED DURING COVOYS AND COMBAT PATROLS ALONG MAIN SUPPLY ROUTES. BY HIS ENTHUSIASM, PROFESSIONALISM, AND UNWAVERING DEVOTION TO DUTY, STAFF SERGEANT SARGENT UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEBULK FUEL NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSERGEANT DWAINE CARLINOUNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS THE ASSISTANT PLATOON SERGEANT FOR 2ND PLATOON, BULK FUEL COMPANY, 8TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION, 2ND MARINE LOGISTIC GROUP, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE, U.S. MARINE FORCES ATLANTIC FROM APRIL 2007 TO MARCH 2008. Sgt CARLINO distinguished himself while serving on numerous exercises throughout AL ANBAR IRAQ, CAMP LEJEUNE AND FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA. during Operation iraqi freedom 6-08, Sgt Carlino spearheaded the entire fuel farm reconfiguration of al qaim’s fuel farm containing over 250,000 gallons of JP-8, 40,000 gallons DF-2, and 20,000 gallons OF mogas to ensure the most effeciEnt and safe operation of his fuel farm. Sgt Carlino’s dedication to his bulk fuel community proved his worth as a bulk fuel leader WHILE heading the initial planning stage of 3 bulk fuel field operations in support of 10TH marine regiments “operation rolling thunder” at fort bragg, north carolina. his expertise in fuel farm operations proved invaluable when all missions were completed safely and without incident. Sgt carlino played an intriCATe role preparing an entire platoon, consisting mainly of newly joined marines, to deploy, set up, store, and dispense over 17,600 gallons of jp-8 to AN artillery regiment in under 15 days. HIS DIRECT LEADERSHIP RESULTED IN NO environmental accidents or A SINGLE safety VIOLATION BY HIS PERSONNEL. rOLLING THUNDER WAS a task that has not been FIELDED in almost four years for the unit. SERGEANT carlino’s SELFLESS DEVOTION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AS WELL AS HIS COMMAND, AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEBULK FUEL MARINE OF THE YEAR AWARD TOLANCE CORPORAL ANDREW PALS UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS FOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:PROFESSIONAL SERVICE IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS A TEAM LEADER AND MAINTENANCE NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER, BULK FUEL COMPANY, 9TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION, 3D MARINE LOGISTIC GROUP, 3D MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE, FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. DURING THIS PERIOD, LANCE CORPORAL PALS PERFORMED HIS DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER. THROUGH HIS DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT TO MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT, LANCE CORPORAL PALS LED HIS MARINES IN SUPPORTING TWO FUEL OPERATIONS ON THE KOREAN PENINSULA. LANCE CORPORAL PALS WORKED LONG AND ARDUOUS HOURS ALONGSIDE HIS REPUBLIC OF KOREA MARINE COUNTERPARTS HELPING TO ENSURE FUTURE SUCCESS IN BULK FUEL OPERATIONS THROUGHOUT THE KOREAN PENINSULA BY EFFECTIVELY DEMONSTRATING THE CAPABILITIES AND METHODS OF EMPLOYING AND OPERATING A BEACH UNLOADING ASSEMBLY, A 100,000 GALLON CAPACITY FUEL FARM ASSEMBLY, AND 1.3 MILES OF HOSE REEL SYSTEM. LANCE CORPORAL PALS SIMULTANEOUSLY SERVED AS THE PLATOON MAINTENANCE CHIEF, ENSURING SIX 600 GPM PUMPS OPERATED AT THEIR MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVELS THROUGHOUT THE KOREAN INTEROPERABILITY TRAINING PROGRAM DESPITE THE EFFECTS OF THE EXTREME COLD WEATHER. HIS AGGRESSIVE MANAGEMENT OF REQUIRED TRAINING ALLOWED THE FUELS SECTION TO MAINTAIN A HIGH LEVEL OF READINESS, ENSURING INDIVIDUAL ANNUAL TRAINING WAS COMPLETED AHEAD OF SCHEDULE. BY HIS NOTEWORTHY ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PERSEVERANCE, AND DEVOTION TO DUTY, LANCE CORPORAL PALS REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEEXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 2 EDUARDO QUIROZ UNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:In recognition for his exemplary service in the performance of his duties while serving as Platoon Commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 2d Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, from 1 July 2007 through 31 March 2008. During this period Warrant Officer Quiroz displayed superior leadership, professionalism, technical, and tactical competence as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer. Leading 55 multi-service Explosive Ordnance Disposal Teams on more than 900 combat Explosive Ordnance Disposal missions, which included; the rendering safe and neutralization of 157 Improvised Explosive Devices and the capture, cataloging, and safe disposition of 416 weapons caches, disposing of more than 23,000 ordnance items. Warrant Officer Quiroz was responsible for the mentorship and development of partnering with Iraqi Bomb Disposal soldiers, assisted in their transition to independently operate within their own battle space with substantial success. Warrant Officer Quiroz technical and tactical proficiency led to the capture and detainment of five insurgents as a result of exploitation of evidence yielding biometric matches to known enemy combatants. Warrant Officer Quiroz consistently led his platoon from the front with unparalleled leadership ensuring they were properly trained and equipped, overall resulting in reduced enemy attacks upon Coalition Forces and Iraqi civilians and the overall success of 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal Platoon. Warrant Officer Quiroz’s total effectiveness, forceful leadership, and total devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THESSGT WILLIAM CALLAHAN MEMORIAL EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD TOSERGEANT JEFFREY KADIS UNITED STATES MARINE CORPSFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS AN EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TECHNICIAN, 9TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION, 1ST FORCE SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP, FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 1 OCTOBER 2007 AND MARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON 373, FROM 2 OCTOBER 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. THROUGHOUT THIS PERIOD, SERGEANT KADIS PERFORMED HIS DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER. AS AN EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TECHNICIAN DURING OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, HIS TECHNICAL EXPERTISE SERVED TO ENHANCE FORCE PROTECTION MEASURES, REFINE PROCEDURES FOR IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICE DISARMAMENT, AND INCREASE MOBILITY THROUGHOUT II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE’S AREA OF OPERATIONS. HE WAS THE ASSISTANT EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TEAM LEADER OF A UNIT THAT WAS DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR CLEARING AN UNPARALLELED NUMBER OF IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES, CONTRIBUTING TO THE FREE FLOW OF TRAFFIC AND SAVING COUNTLESS LIVES. SERGEANT KADIS AND HIS TEAM WERE THE VICTIMS OF SEVERAL IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICE STRIKES. ON EACH OCCASION, SERGEANT KADIS HAD THE PRESENCE OF MIND TO DRIVE HIS TEAM OUT OF THE KILL ZONE, LIMITING THEIR EXPOSURE TO MORE DANGER, AND RESPONDING COURAGEOUSLY IN THE FACE OF ENEMY FIRE. ON ONE SUCH OCCASION, AFTER A MOMENTARY LAPSE OF CONSCIOUSNESS, SERGEANT KADIZ NEGLECTED HIS OWN WOUNDS AND IMMEDIATELY RESPONDED BY LEADING HIS TEAM OUT OF HARM’S WAY. SERGEANT KADIS’ HEORIC ACTION, ZEALOUS INITIATIVE, COMMENDABLE SELFLESSNESS, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THECOMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION OF THE YEAR TO1ST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALIONFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR MERITORIOUS ACHIEVMENT WHILE PROVIDING CLOSE, COMBAT ENGINEER SUPPORT TO I MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FORWARD, II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FORWARD, 11th AND 13TH MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNITS FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. ALWAYS IN HIGH DEMAND, FIRST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION’S REINFORCED ENGINEER COMPANIES ASSIGNED TO REGIMENTAL COMBAT TEAMS 2 AND 5 IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM 06-08 MAINTAINED AN OPERATIONAL TEMPO AS HIGH AS ANY MANEUVER UNIT WITHIN THE COMMAND. ADDITIONALLY, THE ENGINEER PLATOON ASSIGNED TO BATTALION LANDING TEAM 3/1 COMPLETED OVER 135 KEY ENGINEER PROJECTS IN AO ANAHEIM. THE MARINES OF FIRST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION PLAYED A VITAL ROLE IN ACCOMPLISHING THE COMMANDER’S PRIORTIY OF ENGINEER EFFORT THROUGHOUT AL ANBAR BY PROVIDING FULL SPECTRUM COMBAT ENGINEER SUPPORT TO INCLUDE: ANTI-TERRORISM AND FORCE PROTECTION ENHANCEMENTS TO DOZENS OF TACTICAL BASES FROM RAWAH TO RUTBAH, THE CONSTRUCTION OF 9 TACTICAL BASES AND THE DEMILITARIZATION OF 15 TACTICAL BASES, THE CONSTRUCTION OF 112 KILOMETERS OF COUNTER-MOBILITY BERMS, ROUTE CLEARANCE OF 26,442 KILOMETERS OF LINES OF COMMUNICATION IN WHICH 28 IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES WERE DISCOVERED, AND THE DISCOVERY OF OVER 400 CACHES YIELDING 26,800 ORDNANCE ITEMS AND IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICE MATERIALS. ADDITIONALLY, A BRIDGE DEMOLITION TEAM UTILIZED 2,600 POUNDS OF C4 TO DEMOLISH A BRIDGE ALONG MSR MOBILE WHICH WAS ACCOMPLISHED AHEAD OF SCHEDULE AND WITH MINIMAL DAMAGE TO THE ROADWAY SURFACE OR BRIDGE ABUTMENTS. IN SUPPORT OF THE REACTIVATION OF 3D COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION, 1ST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION FORMED, TRAINED, AND EQUIPPED TWO COMBAT ENGINEER COMPANIES, ONE OF WHICH IS DEPLOYED IN SUPPORT OF OIF AND OEF. THE MARINES OF FIRST COMBAT ENGINEER BATTALION HAVE DEMONSTRATED A RELENTLESS DRIVE TO ACCOMPLISH THE MISSION EPITOMIZING THE PHRASE “ENGINEERS UP”, AND HAVE BEEN IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THE ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALION OF THE YEAR AWARD TO8TH ENGINEER SUPPORT BATTALIONFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:From 1 April 2007 through 31 March 2008, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2d Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force conducted engineer planning and missions in support of full spectrum combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08. 8th ESB had overwhelming success in combat operations while deployed from February to September 2007 with 30th Naval Construction Regiment (NCR), Multi-National Forces West (MNF-W). By the nature of their mission, 8th ESB Marines and Sailors routinely applied their trade in some of the most hazardous areas in Al Anbar, and due to the rigorous training and preparation, the battalion overcame all challenges and exceeded all expectations, whether as part of ESB or when attached to other commands. Throughout deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, 8th ESB conducted operations throughout AO Atlanta, providing support for coalition and Iraqi forces with two battalion size operations, as well as several company and platoon engineer missions. Their efforts affected combat operations throughout Al Anbar province, greatly enhancing the coalition's efforts to interdict enemy operations while reinforcing the security and stability of the Government of Iraq. The Battalion's efforts significantly disrupted and denied Al Qaeda forces the ability to sustain operations AO Raleigh and AO Anaheim specifically. The conduct of general engineering operations throughout the province by this unit was critical to the significant success achieved by the coalition in the establishment of a safer, more secure, and more stable Iraq. Throughout this period, the Marines and Sailors of 8th ESB displayed unwavering devotion to duty which reflects great credit upon the battalion and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEMARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON, ENGINEER COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD TOMARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON 271FOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:FOR EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE AND MERITORIOUS SERVICE FOR PROVIDING SUPERLATIVE AVIATION GROUND SUPPORT AND COMBAT SERVCIE SUPPORT TO THE 2D MARINE AIRCRAFT WING AND II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD) FORCES BOTH AT HOME STATION AND THROUGHOUT AL ANBAR PROVINCE, IRAQ FROM 1 APRIL 2007 TO 31 MARCH 2008. MARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON 271 DISTINGUISHED ITSELF BY EXCEPTIONALLY MERIOUTORIOUS ACHIEVEMENT. DEMONSTRATED BY: PROVIDING OVER 28 MILLION GALLONS OF JP-8, TRAVELING OVER 250,000 MILES AND OPERATING HEAVY EQUIPMENT OVER 6,900 HOURS TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO FORCES THROUGHOUT THE AREA OF OPERATIONS, ENHANCING FORCE PROTECTION, UPGRADING EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE, AND ENABLING THE aVIATION cOMBAT eLEMENT TO CONDUCT COMBAT OPERATIONS IN THE AUSTERE CONDITIONS OF IRAQ. IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO AIRFIELDS AND LANDING ZONES ENHANCED SORTIE GENERATION AND SAFETY OF FLIGHT FOR ALL COALITION AIRCRAFT WHILE SETTING THE STAGE FOR THE COMBAT INTRODUCTION OF THE MV-22 OSPREY. ADDITIONALLY, THE SQUADRON RESPONDED WITH PROFESSIONALISM AND DETERMINATION WITH RAPID ENGINEER SUPPORT TO CONDUCT CRITICAL FLIGHT LINE AND WATER LINE REPAIRS. THE SQUADRON’S EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TEAM PROVIDED OUTSTANDING SUPPORT, BOTH ON THE FLIGHT LINE AND OUTSIDE THE WIRE, AND ALSO AT HOME STATION BY SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY PROTECTING CIVILIANS AND MILITARY PERSONNEL FROM THE FULL RANGE OF EXPLOSIVE HAZARDS. ADDITIONALLY, THE SQUADRON CONTINUED TO PROVIDE SUSTAINED AVIATION GROUND SUPPORT TO THE 2D MARINE AIRCRAFT WING AND II MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE UPON RETURN FROM IRAQ. BY THEIR NOTEWORTHY ACCOMPLISHMENTS, MARINES AND SAILORS OF MWSS-271 OVERCAME EXTREME CONDITIONS TO PROVIDE ESSENTIAL AVIATION GROUND SUPPORT AND COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT. THEIR HALLMARK ACHIEVEMENTS REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON THEMSELVES AND UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNTIED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.THE MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION TAKES PLEASURE IN PRESENTING THEOUTSTANDING NAVAL CONSTRUCTION FORCE UNIT OF THE YEAR AWARD TONAVAL MOBILE CONSTRUCTION BATTALION TWENTY EIGHTFOR SERVICE SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING:DURING THE PERIOD FROM APRIL 2007, TO SEPTEMBER 2007, NAVAL MOBILE CONSTRUCTION BATTALION TWENTY EIGHT PROVIDED SUSTAINED SUPERIOR ENGINEERING SUPPORT TO THE MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE (FORWARD) AND THE SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES’ ONGOING COMBAT OPERATIONS AND RECONSTITUTION EFFORTS IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN, IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM. NMCB 28 DEPLOYED 500 RESERVE SEABEES TO FIVE PRIMARY STATIONS THROUGHOUT THE THEATRE OF OPERATIONS. THE MAIN EFFORT OF THE BATTALION WAS IN SUPPORT OF COMBAT MISSIONS IN AL ANBAR PROVINCE, IRAQ, AS DIRECTED BY II MEF. MORE THAN 100 INDIVIDUAL MISSIONS RESULTED IN 47,914 MANDAYS OF DIRECT ENGINEERING SUPPORT AND A TOTAL OF MORE THAN 92,000 MANDAYS OF OVERALL SUPPORT DURING THE DEPLOYMENT PERIOD. CIVILIAN SKILLS WERE LEVERAGED TO EXCEL IN THE EXECUTION OF CONSTRUCTION AND COLLATERAL MISSIONS. DIVERSE PROJECTS INCLUDED FORWARD OPERATING BASE CONSTRUCTION, SUPPLY ROUTE MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY REPAIRS, FORCE PROTECTION MEASURE INSTALLATION, CLASS IV CONTROL AND ISSUANCE, WATER WELL DRILLING, CONVOY SECURITY, CIVILIAN SEARCHES, AND BRIDGE REPAIRS. SUPERIOR TECHNICAL SKILLS OF THE SEABEES, COMBINED WITH PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SKILLS OF THE COMMAND LEADERSHIP, PROVIDED THE BASIS FOR SUCCESS. THREE OPERATIONAL CAMPAIGNS WERE PROFICIENTLY SUPPORTED. CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE SUPPORT WAS PROVIDED TO 27 FORWARD OPERATING BASES. ELEVEN OPERATING BASES AND COMBAT OUTPOSTS WERE CONSTRUCTED FROM THE GROUND UP. NINETEEN SUPPLY ROUTES WERE MAINTAINED BY REPAIRING MORE THAN 1100 IED CRATERS OVER 149 NIGHT-TIME MISSIONS. INSURGENT DAMAGE TO CRITICAL BRIDGES WAS REPAIRED UNDER TACTICAL CONDITIONS AND SEVERAL BRIDGES WERE ASSESSED FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS. A 515 FOOT DEEP WATER WELL WAS DRILLED AT AL ASAD TO ALLEVIATE FRESH WATER DEMANDS ON THE SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR SUPPORT OF AL ASAD AIRBASE AND SURROUNDING OUTPOSTS. CONVOY SECURITY ELEMENT TEAMS TRAVELED MORE THAN 26,000 TACTICAL MILES IN ESCORT OF 285 LOGISTIC CONVOYS. 36,000 CUBIC YARDS OF ROCK AND BASE MATERIAL WERE DELIVERED AND SPREAD BY THE HAULING TEAM. THE BATTALION’S “SAFETY FIRST” CULTURE ALLOWED THESE EFFORTS TO BE ACCOMPLISHED WITH ONLY 7 MANDAYS OF LOST TIME INCURRED. BEARING THE MOTTO OF “THE OLD PROS”, THE NMCB 28 SEABEES PROVED THEY ARE THE FINEST, MOST PRODUCTIVE, AND SKILLFULLY PROFICIENT CRAFTSMEN IN THE NAVAL CONSTRUCTION FORCE TODAY.OUR MARINE CORPS ENGINEER ASSOCIATION WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR genuine APPRECIATION TO THE FOLLOWING CORPORATE MEMBERS AND THEIR REPRESENTATIVES FOR THEIR PARTICIPATION AND SUPPORT OF OUR ENGINEER BROTHERHOOD.BAE SYSTEMSREPRESENTATIVE: DAVE TEBO, PROGRAM MGR, COMBAT ENGINEER SYSTEMSSPONSOR OF CBT ENGR BN TROPHYCATERPILLAR INC. DEFENSE & FEDERAL PRODUCTSACCOUNT MANAGER: kurt kleinowSPONSOR OF ENGR SPT BN TROPHYTEREX CORPORATIONREPRESENTATIVE: TOM MANLEY, Vice President Government ProgramsSPONSOR OF NAVAL CONSTRUCTION FORCE UNIT AWARDALLIED CONTAINER SYSTEMSREPRESENTATIVE: JAMES ODOM, PRESIDENT; SUSAN HORSFALL, CEO KALMAR RT CENTERREPRESENTATIVE: DAVE PEACOCK,EXEC VP, MILITARY PRODUCTS & SUPPLYmecorepresentative: john klie, government business development mgr.PEARSON ENGINEERINGREPRESENTATIVE: LEW SYKES, MILITARY SALES REP.TACTICAL & SURVIVAL SPECIALTIES INCREPRESENTATIVE: BILL STRANG, PRESIDENT/CEOTUG HILL CONSTRUCTIONREPRESENTATIVE: GINNY MacCALLUM, DIRECTOR, NATIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTThe Rusty Marine?The rusty Marine, born gallant and brave,To his country, his allegiance was raised.He served in war to honor and protect,While in battle, he did not defect.Through foxholes, trenches, gunfire and hell,His honor and pride never fell.For in his heart, his faith was strong,And yet for home, he did long.Our great land protects the free,For this he fought; for you and me.Now he sits, tired, and worn,For his youth, he does mourn.Because it ran so quickly by,He often thinks, “how time did fly,”Then he dons his old dress blues,And in his spirit, a change of hues.He straightens up and stands with pride,His great honor, he cannot hide.Gently then, he begins to weep,The memories come, pile upon heap.A single tear falls from his eye,As he whispers, “Semper Fi”. 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