MHawaii ARINE

MM A R I N EA R I N EVOLUME 36, NUMBER 19 WWW.MCBH.USMC.MIL MAY 12, 2006

Hawaii

ChallengeA-3

The big marketB-1

Top AthleteC-1

Lance Cpl. Patrick J. FlotoCamp Pendleton

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON,Calif. — Sgt. Maj. Bradley A. Kasal thinks he didwhat any good Marine would have done.

That includes taking enemy rifle fire Nov. 14,2004, absorbing a grenade blast and refusing medicalattention inside Fallujah’s “House of Hell” duringOperation Al Fajr (New Dawn).

For his extraordinary heroism and leadership inFallujah, Iraq, as the Weapons Company first ser-geant for 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1stMarine Division, Kasal was awarded the Navy Cross

during a ceremony here May 1.“The word hero is tossed around pretty loosely

these days,” said Maj. Gen. Michael R. Lehnert, com-manding general, Marine Corps Installations West,after he awarded Kasal with the Navy’s second-high-est decoration, in front of an audience that includedthe 1st Marine Division’s past and present command-ing generals, Lt. Gen. James N. Mattis and Maj. Gen.Richard F. Natonski, respectively.

”Some may call a basketball player a hero for scor-ing the winning goal or a celebrity for donating asmall portion of their earnings to a good cause, but

Wounded Marine awarded Navy Cross

Lieutenant Col.David L. Reeves,

Assault AmphibianSchool Battalion’scommanding offi-cer congratulatesSgt. Maj. BradleyA. Kasal after he

was presentedwith the Navy

Cross for extraor-dinary heroism in

Fallujah, Iraq,Nov. 13, 2004.

Sgt. Luis R. Agostini

Lance Cpl. Roger L. Nelson

Members of the Fife and Drum Corps, United States Army 3rd Infantry Regimen, Fort Meyer, Va., also known as "The Old Guard," perform for the crowd Saturday.

Lance Cpl. Roger L. Nelson Combat Correspondent

The streets of Waikiki were linedwith civilians, veterans and militarymembers Saturday, as members of dif-ferent groups and organizations,brought together by United StatesOrganization Hawaii, paraded by inrecognition of the service and dedica-tion of Hawaii service members whoprotect the United States.

The recognition ceremonykicked off in the morning with a paradethat began at Fort DeRussy and ended atKapiolani Park.

“The parade was really amaz-ing,” said Cpl. Greg Corbett, adminis-trative clerk, 3rd Marine Regiment,here. “There were Marines, Sailors, andmembers of all of the other services

there, marching. The coolest thing wasthe people marching in the Red Coats’uniform.”

The Red Coats that Corbettwas referring to are members of the Fifeand Drum Corps, United States Army3rd Infantry Regimen, Fort Meyer, Va. –also known as “The Old Guard,” – atotal of 51 soldiers who are on activeduty, who are specifically recruited tocontinue the Army’s time-honored tra-dition of providing ceremonial support.

The end of the parade signaledthe beginning of a pre-concert inKapiolani Park that featured perform-ances by Makaha Sons, Kapena, andmany other bands and performers.

“We just wanted to put onsomething really nice for the servicemembers on Oahu,” said CassandraIsidro, executive director, USO Hawaii.

“It’s a way for us to give a little some-thing back to the people who do somuch for us and our country.”

After the final act of the pre-concert, a formal program was heldwhich introduced several guest speak-ers, one of whom was Hawaii’sGovernor Linda Lingle who thanked allof the troops for providing the U.S. withsecurity and keeping us safe.

“We’re here to salute allHawaii-based military personnel,including men and women of theArmy, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps,Coast Guard, National Guard andReserves,” Isidro said.

Once the formal program con-cluded, the main stage opened and theheadlining act, three-time GrammyAward-winning R&B singer JohnLegend performed.

“This large-scale, all day eventis reminiscent of the days of Bob Hope’sgrand USO events and an example ofthe USO Hawaii’s expanding presencein Hawaii,” said Isidro.

“Local government, businesses andthe community have stepped forwardin support of this event to salute ourHawaii-based military and make it a freeevent for everyone. We realize that themilitary are part of our community, andwe want to say ‘mahalo’ for their serviceand sacrifice.”

According to Corbett, theparade and concert was a nice gestureand made him feel good about the jobhe is doing for his country.

“It’s good to be recognizedevery once in a while,” said Corbett.“When people say thank you for the jobwe do, it makes it all worth it.”

Waikiki salutes service members with parade

Sgt Roe F. Siegle3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment

HADITHA, Iraq — AMarine sat on a collapsiblemetal chair with several otherwarriors seated around him andstared at four sets of dog tags,combat boots, rifles and Kevlarhelmets.

Tears welled up in his eyes ashe slowly let his head drop intohis hands. The tears fell, splash-ing the concrete floor.

This Marine is one of hun-dreds from 3rd Battalion, 3rdMarine Regiment, who are stillmourning the loss of Staff Sgt.Jason C. Ramseyer, who waskilled two weeks ago in anexplosion from an improvisedexplosive device.

IEDs – roadside bombs usedby insurgents in Iraq to targetCoalition and Iraqi Forces – arethe number-one killer of U.S.troops in Iraq, according to theIraq Coalition Casualty Count –an organization which tallies

3/3 holdsmemorial

Lance Cpl. Ryan TrevinoCombat Correspondent

The commanding general ofIII Marine Expeditionary Forceawarded five Marines from 3rdRadio Battalion for their actionsin support of Operation IraqiFreedom during a ceremonyheld Friday behind the MarineCorps Exchange Annex here.

Lieutenant Gen. Joseph F.Weber presented Sgt. Mariusz R.Mendykowski, team leader, 1stplatoon, Alpha Company andCpl. Brian J. Merjil, team leader,3rd platoon, Alpha Companywith Navy and Marine CorpsAchievement Medals, eachwith V device for valor.

Mendykowski received themedal for his time serving asthe signals intelligence supportteam leader for 3rd RadioBattalion in support of OIFfrom June 2005 to February2006. His team supported 8th

5 medalsawardedto 3rdRadio Bn

Al AnbarProvinceGovernorMaamoon SamiRasheed Al-Awani sits at hisdesk, continuingwork as usual inspite of havinghis life threat-ened 29 times bywould-be assas-sins.

Capt. Chris Perrine

Capt. Chris Perrine1 Marine Expeditionary Force

RAMADI, Iraq — Just two daysafter surviving an assassinationattempt, Al Anbar GovernorMaamoon Sami Rasheed Al-Awani washard at work trying to solve the prob-lems in his province. As he promisedafter the May 2, the attempt did notdissuade his determination to servehis people.

“On the same day of theattack, I am here at the governmentcenter and am ready to work,”Maamoon declared after the 29thattempt on his life. “I will continue toserve the people of Anbar and Iraq.”

The governor reported towork May 4, with a slight burn markon his face from the attack but unde-terred from tackling one of his biggest

Iraqi governor continues onafter 29 attempts on his life

See KASAL, A- 7

See MEDALS, A- 7 See GOVERN, A- 4

See 3/3, A- 4

A-2 • MAY 12, 2006 HAWAII MARINE

NEWS BRIEFS

Commanding General Brig. Gen. Steven A. HummerBase Sergeant Major Sgt. Maj. Anthony E. FranksPublic Affairs Officer Lt. Col. Patricia JohnsonPublic Affairs/Press Chief Gunnery Sgt. Claudia LaMantiaManaging Editor Millie PereraNews and Sports Editor Tony BlazejackLifestyles Editor Corinne KnutsonCombat Correspondent Cpl. Megan L. StinerCombat Correspondent Cpl. Michelle M. DicksonCombat Correspondent Cpl. Sara A. CarterCombat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Ryan TrevinoCombat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Edward C. deBreeCombat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Roger L. Nelson

The Hawaii Marine is an unofficial newspaper publishedevery Friday by MidWeek Printing, Inc., 45-525 Luluku Road,Kaneohe, HI 96744, a private firm in no way connected with theU.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive contract to the U.S. MarineCorps. This civilian enterprise is an authorized publication formembers of the military services.

Contents of the Hawaii Marine are not necessarily the officialviews of or endorsed by the United States Government, theDepartment of Defense or the U.S. Marine Corps. All advertisingis provided by MidWeek Printing, Inc., 529-4700.

The appearance of advertising in the Hawaii Marine, includ-ing inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsementby the DoD, DoN or the U.S. Marine Corps of the products orservices advertised.

Everything advertised in the Hawaii Marine shall be madeavailable for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race,color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physicalhandicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor ofthe purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content or public service announcements (i.e., allcontent other than paid advertisements) is edited, prepared andprovided by the Public Affairs Office aboard Marine Corps BaseHawaii. Opinions expressed are not to be considered an officialexpression of the DoD or the U.S. Marine Corps.

Submit items for the Hawaii Marine to managing editor nolater than noon on the Friday prior to publication, using the fol-lowing addresses:

HAWAII MARINE, BOX 63062, BUILDING 216, MCB HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, HAWAII 96863

E-MAIL: [email protected]

FAX: 257-1289, PHONE: 257-8835

HawaiiMARINE

VP-4 Change of Command todayCommander Wade D. Turvold will relieve

Cmdr. Steven G. Bethke as commanding officerof Patrol Squadron 4 during a ceremony inHangar 104 aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii,Kaneohe Bay, today at 1000. Patrol Wing 2Commodore, Captain Robert J. Adrion is theguest speaker at the ceremony. Bethke took com-mand in April 2005 and during his command,the squadron completed a six month deploy-ment. While under his command. PatrolSquadron 4 continued their streak of Retention

Hold Lot SaleThe annual May worldwide case lot sale takes

place at nearly all commissaries this month. Thesale gives shoppers the opportunity to buy bulkquantities of their favorite products at saving ofup to 50 percent, which is far above the 30 per-cent or more that they usually save by shoppingat the commissary.

For more information on the case lot sale, logon to www.commissaries.com.

Marine Security Guard DutyThe Marine Security Guard Duty Screening

Team will be on base May 15. They visit will be atthe Base Theater from 8:30 a.m. to present adetailed one-hour brief to explain the aspects ofthe MSG program. Following the brief they willscreen volunteers, and talk with Marines whohave orders assigning them to MSG duty. Thisbrief is a PME that all Marines should be knowl-edgeable about. Any Marine can attend the briefand discover the Marine Security GuardBattalion's historic mission and how to becomepart of it.

Safety Stand DownThe Base Safety Center will be hosting the

2006 Memorial Day Weekend Safety Stand Down,May 23 and 24. Art. Fetting, a well-known moti-vational speaker and humorist fromHillsborough, N.C., will present “The 101Positive Interation Program for Summer SafetySurvival,” May 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. andagain May 23 from 8 to 10 a.m., at the BaseTheater. The presentation will also be delivered atthe Camp H.M. Smith Polloch Theater, May 24from 1 to 2 p.m. Fetting will talk about how to beyour own best friend behind the wheel, and howto avoid DUIs and dumb behavior by using yourhead, hands and heart, and other safety topics.

Recruiters Assistants NeededWant an opportunity to earn promotion

points and spend up to 30 days at home withouttaking leave? The Marine Corps RecruitingStation in Pittsburgh, Pa., is looking for motivat-ed Marines to serve as recruiter assistants.

This is the perfect opportunity to earn thoseextra points you need to excel past your peersand gain your next promotion. Up to 100 pointstoward your promotion can be earned duringtime spent on recruiter assistance.

During your time at home you can expect tospend time with recruiters talking to young menand women around town, at the mall and even atyour old high school. You will speak with peopleabout joining the Marine Corps and what toexpect once they’ve decide to join. You will alsowork with poolees on physical fitness, knowledgeand more.

For more information about the recruiter assis-tance program in your hometown area, contactSgt. Lantz at (412) 395-4841

Important Phone Numbers:

On-Base EmergenciesMilitary PoliceChild Protective ServiceFraud, Waste, Abuse & EEOBusiness Management HotlinePothole & Streetlight RepairBase InformationMCBH Duty Chaplain

Today Saturday Sunday

Day — Partly cloudy with scatteredshowers. East winds 10 to 15 mph. Chanceof rain 50 percent.

Night — artly cloudy with scatteredshowers. East winds 10 to 15 mph. Chanceof rain 50 percent.

High — 80Low — 71

Day — Partly cloudy with scatteredshowers. East winds 10 to 15 mph.Chance of rain 50 percent.

Night — Partly cloudy with isolatedshowers. East winds 10 to 15 mph.Chance of rain 20 percent.


Day — Partly cloudy with scatteredshowers. Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph.Chance of rain 40 percent.

Night — Partly cloudy with scatteredshowers. East winds 10 to 15 mph.Chance of rain 50 percent.


Weekend weather outlook

911257-7114832-5300257-8852257-3188257-2380449-7110257-7700

Capt. A.T. SnowOIC Tax Center

Numerous units and individu-als here face a hectic cycle of con-tingency deployments in supportof the Global War on Terror.

One consequence of recurringcontingency operations deploy-ments is that many people arenot able to file their tax returnsduring the traditional tax season,Jan through April 15. Legally,persons who deploy in supportof contingency operations andtheir spouses get extensions tofile and pay taxes thanks to theCombat Duty Zone TaxExtension.

However, this extension is

limited and will generally last180 days from the last day spentin the combat zone. Regardlessof any extensions to file and paytaxes, if you make over $8,200.(single) you are still legallyrequired to file a Federal incometax return.

If you made less than $8,500you probably want to file any-way in order to get a refund ofany taxes you paid, plus addi-tional money that you may beeligible for such as the EarnedIncome Credit (EIC).

To alleviate the burdenof filing taxes and researchingtax issues elsewhere on thosewho have already sacrificed somuch, the Legal Services Center,

here, is now offering free year-round tax support to Active-Dutypersonnel, retirees, and familymembers.

This year-round support willadd to the already 7,500 taxreturns that were filed in the TaxCenter this “tax season,” gener-ating over $6.5 Million inrefunds with an estimated costsavings of over $800,000 to thosewho used the tax center’s freeservices.

Members of the Tax Centerrequest your assistance in mak-ing personnel aware that theymust file tax returns regardless ofcontingency deployments. Pleasefacilitate making time for yourpeople to get to the tax center.

House calls are also offered tounits in order to brief tax infor-mation and begin gathering thepaperwork needed.

The tax center will operateyear-round out of Building 215,the Legal Services Center, acrossthe street from the CommandingGeneral’s building and flagpole.

Walk-in service is available.Check in with the LegalAssistance Office located on thefirst floor and let someone knowyou would like to do your taxreturn, or if you have a tax issuethat you would like legal adviceon.

To setup an appointment orfor additional information call257-2110 ext. 236.

Lance Cpl. Roger L. NelsonCombat Correspondent

With the summer aroundthe corner, Marine Corps BaseHawaii’s Traffic ManagementOffice will be seeing anincrease in the number ofMarines and Sailors who willneed to have their belongingsshipped to their new duty sta-tion.

“I’ll put it this way, in themonths of May and August weusually will see a 70 percentincrease of personnel needingto TMO their belongings,” saidStaff Sgt. Richard P. Felton,Traffic Management chief,TMO, Headquarters Battalion.“This is the time of the seasonthat the DoD thinks it best toship members things.”

According to Felton, thesummer months are better tomove Marines and Sailors due

to shipping prices and it is bet-ter for the quality of life offamily members.

“The DoD figures summer isa better time to move peoplebecause the children are usual-ly out of school and don’t haveto worry about changingschools mid-year,” said Felton.

People expecting to changeduty stations during the sum-mer months should be proac-tive and start their shipmentprocess sooner.

“If they’re getting out with-in the next three to sixmonths, they should go toIPAC (Installation PersonnelAdministrative Center) and seeif they have orders. If so, theyneed to make at least 20 copiesof their orders and hurry upand start the TMO process,”said Felton, a Storm Lake, Iowanative. “It is required that theysit through a TMO counseling

session that takes place everyTuesday and Thursday at 8:30a.m.”

There are very few contrac-tors on Oahu, so the earlier theprocess is started, the smootherit will go.

“Right now anyone shippinghousehold goods need to havethem done three to four weeksin advance, but in June it willchange to 30 to 40 days,”Felton said. “If shipping a vehi-cle, they should know eachservice member rates one POVshipment. They should alsomake sure they have all of theup to date documents like reg-istration, safety and insurance.If there is a lien on the vehiclethey need to obtain a letterfrom their bank stating that itis okay to ship the vehicle.”

When shipping a vehiclealso makes sure it has notbeing recalled from the maker.

“We’ve had a few incidentsof vehicles starting a fire dur-ing their shipment due to amalfunction to the automo-bile,” said Felton. “Once thevehicle is cleared, we will needa letter from the dealer sayingthe vehicle is not one of therecalled.”

The amount of weight aservice member is allowed toship is based on their rank andwhether or not they have fam-ily members.

“What I recommend is forall personnel to contact us andtake no one else’s advice onwhat can and can’t beshipped,” said Felton. “There’sa lot of scuttlebutt that goesaround about us, but it’s best tocall and hear it straight fromthe horses mouth.”

For more information, con-tact the Traffic ManagementOffice at 257-3566.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day

For as long as America has gone to war to fight for and to maintain its free-doms, military men and women have answered the call to duty. For all, itmeant leaving home and family – but for some, it meant leaving their belovedspouse.

Although this trend continued throughout the centuries, it wasn’t until1984 that the armed services set aside a day to recognize the significant con-tributions military spouses have made toward the continuing fight forAmerica’s freedoms.

Looking back on our military’s history, we see that America’s involvementin peacekeeping throughout the world has steadily increased – requiringmore commitments and more sacrifices of our men and women in uniform.The military spouse – some who have seen their husband or wife off to warand embraced them as they returned, while others have had a more somberhomecoming – share these sacrifices.

Today, on Military Spouse Appreciation Day, let us all take a moment to ponder the many ways in whichthese selfless individuals serve America in their own unique way. Let us praise them for their continued com-mitment to support our men and women in uniform – while ensuring thier children enjoy the highest stan-dards of quality of life. What they do for America is astonishing.

Join with me today, in extending my appreciation for their support. Take a moment to thank those whotake care of our Marines and Sailors in too many ways to count. Take a moment and join me in saying,“Thank you for all you do for us and our country.”

Semper Fidelis

Brig. Gen. Steven A. HummerCommanding General

Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay

Year-round tax services available

Be proactive with your move

HAWAII MARINE MAY 12, 2006 • A-3

Photos and Story by LanceCpl. Ryan Trevino

Combat Correspondent

From the top of KansasTower to the ropes of the obsta-cle course, Marines and Sailorsfrom Combat Service SupportGroup 3, here, recently partici-pated in the Outlaw Challenge,a squad competition race thatspanned the entire base.

The timed-event requiredthe 40 participating fire teamsto fight their way through aneight-mile course that included10 different stations. The sta-tions were designed to simulatethe different scenarios that thesupport Marines and Sailorswould encounter in a combatenvironment, according toGunnery Sgt. Torain Kelley,training chief.

“This competition requiredthe Marines to use the skillsthey have learned and pushthemselves to keep going in acombat environment,” saidKelley. “It also provides a wayto boost morale and to pro-mote teamwork and missionaccomplishment within theunit.”

Each member in the four-person teams were required tocomplete the obstacle course,

swim 150 meters in the BasePool, assess a casualty – render-ing first aid – assemble and dis-assemble various weapons, andbattle it out in a pugil stickmatch, and finish up at CSSG-3Headquarters Building with therest of the team. Time penaltieswere assessed, if any member ofa team could not complete anyportion of any station.

At the first aid station, theMarines and Sailors were pre-sented with a casualty that wasbleeding profusely from mas-sive shrapnel wound. In orderto complete the station, theyhad to apply a tourniquet tothe victim’s leg and treat asucking chest wound, accord-ing to Senior Chief PettyOfficer Michael Bish, seniorenlisted advisor, MedicalCompany.

“Our main focus is to makesure they can save a Marine’slife it comes down to it,” saidBish.

Teamwork was crucial if theywanted to finish the coursewith a decent time, accordingto Kelley. For example, if a teammember couldn’t swim the 150required meters in the pool, ateammate would have to pickup the slack and swim 300meters. Instead, the Marine or

Sailor who couldn’t swimwould have to do side straddlehops along the side of the pool.

Most of the participantsseemed to be impressed withthe difficulty of the course.

“It’s good to go – physical-ly,” said Cpl. Joseph Moncayo,

Amphibious Assault Vehiclemechanic, MaintenanceCompany. “I know everyone istired, but we will all get there.”

The event served as an eval-uation as to how well the unitis doing on its basic skills train-ing throughout the year,

according to Capt. AndrewGourgoumis, training officer.“We wanted to also foster somecompetitiveness and aggres-siveness between the Marines.”

Gourgoumis said he wasimpressed with how fast someof the teams finished the race.He said he plans to hold thistraining event next year, andincorporate live fire into theexercise.

Sergeant Chris Eastman,construction foreman,

Engineer Company, said he wassatisfied with the overall coor-dination and quality of theevent, even though this wasthe first year it was held.

“It’s a good course, but has afew kinks that need to beworked out,” said Eastman. “Inthe years to come, it will getbetter. The more it gets noticed,the more challenging it willbecome. And the better thecourse gets, the better the com-petition gets.”

Outlaw Challenge pushesCSSG-3 Marines, Sailors

Sgt. Jay Bennington (left), Headquarters Company, radio operator, Combat Service Support Group-3, battles it out with Sgt. Roy McNabb, assault amphibious mechanic, Maintenace Company, CSSG-3 during apugil stick match as part of the Outlaw Challenge held here May 4. The event included ten different stations where particpants had to utilize basic skills to complete.

Lance Corporal Brian Law, supply chief, Maintenance Company,Combat Service Support Group 3, slides down a rope at the obsta-cle course.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Katy Clifford (right), hospital corpsman, Medical Company, CSSG-3 gets a little help from Petty Officer Kelly Miller,hospital corpsman. Medical Company, CSSG-3 to negotiate the obstacle course as part of the Outlaw Challenge held May 4, here. The eventincluded ten different stations where particpants had to utilize basic skills to complete.

Cpl. Joseph Moncayo, Amphibious Assault Vehicle mechanic,Maintenance Company, CSSG-3, simulates the treatment of awounded Marine played by Sgt. Edgar Esquivel, mechanic,Maintenance Company, at the first aid station.


Sgt. Joe LindsayCombat Correspondent

JALALABAD AIRFIELD,Afghanistan — From theonset of Operation EnduringFreedom more than four yearsago, a key partnershipemerged in the Global War onTerrorism that has the partiesinvolved, saying it is the mostcrucial element in theCoalition Forces’ successagainst the Taliban and otherinsurgent groups inAfghanistan.

Although it could be saidthat this has fallen by the way-side in terms of mass publicityand its imprint on the publicconsciousness, that elementhas been the close relationshipbetween the U.S. Marines, U.S.Army soldiers and members ofthe Afghan National Army.

“Working in conjunctionwith the ANA has beenabsolutely critical to our over-all success here,” saidCompany Commander Capt.Jared Spurlock, CharlieCompany, 1st Battalion, 3rdMarine Regiment. “Our mis-sion here has been to supportthem in everything they do,and working with the ANA hasbeen the single most impor-tant reason for our over-

whelming success,” added thePocatello, Idaho native.

Others who have servedside by side with the ANA onthe battlefield like Spurlockspoke of the alliance betweenthe ANA and Marine Corps insimilar terms.

“Our mission toAfghanistan has been a hugesuccess and one of the mainreasons for that is because ofour great working relationshipwith the Afghan NationalArmy,” said Staff Sgt. EmirHadzic, machine gun sectionleader, Bravo Company, 1/3.

“They are courageous war-riors,” continued the native ofSarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina,who now calls St. Louis, Mo.,home. “Everything we do, wedo it with the ANA. They haveshown that they are commit-ted to ridding their country ofterrorists and criminals, andwe are here at their govern-ment’s request to help themaccomplish that. Fightingalongside the ANA, I can tellyou they don’t cut and run.They stand and fight, and theMarines stand and fight withthem. We make a great team.”

That teamwork between theANA and U.S. forces, alongwith other Coalition coun-tries, has been the difference

in the Coalition’s overwhelm-ing victories not just on thebattlefield, but also in thehearts and minds of theAfghan people, noted 1st Sgt.Gerard Calvin, company firstsergeant, Charlie Company,1/3.

“It makes a big differencewhen we are out there onpatrol with the ANA,” saidCalvin, a native of Richmond,Va., currently serving his thirdtour of duty in Afghanistan.“It shows the people that weare partners with the ANA andthat we are here only to helpthem help their own people.”

“It is good for the local peo-ple to see their own army pro-tecting their own country,”added Master Gunnery Sgt.Carlos Craig, operations chief,1/3. “There’s a big warmacceptance of us here by thelocals because they see we’rehere helping their army fightagainst the insurgents thathave terrorized the local popu-lace,” added the Buffalo, N.Y.,native.

The longstanding relation-ship between the ANA and theMarine Corps, coupled withtheir constant joint trainingand the experience gainedfrom previous operations,together paid huge dividends

during the recent Coalitionoffensive dubbed OperationMountain Lion, which sawANA soldiers and Marinesstorm into the former insur-gent safe haven of theKorengal Valley in the KunarProvince of easternAfghanistan.

“The insurgents used tothink they had a place wherethey could go to and run andhide after planting IEDs or tak-ing pot shots at us,” saidPlatoon Sergeant Sgt. MichaelChambers, 3rd Platoon,Charlie Company, 1/3. “Well,the Marines and ANA took themountains of the KorengalValley by force, and now thecowards who call themselvesTaliban have nowhere to go.”

“After Operation MountainLion, the insurgents can onlyhide in holes like rats,” con-tinued the Lexington, S.C.,native. “The ANA was with usevery step of the way, and anycredit the Marines and U.S.Army get should go equally, ifnot more so, to the ANA.”

According to members ofthe ANA, the help of theMarines from 1/3, has giventhem the confidence to carryon the fight and be successfulafter the battalion eventuallyretrogrades back to its home

duty station of Marine CorpsBase Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay.

“A year ago, if a reportercame to me and asked me aquestion, I would have hiddenmy face, turned around, andwalked away from him,” saidHadayapu, an interpreter withthe ANA from Asadabad. “Sixmonths ago, I would havegiven the interview, but notgiven my name. Now, I willgive my name and even whereI live. I have no fear of theinsurgents any more. Theinsurgents are now the oneswho must live in fear. TheMarine Corps has trained theANA so well that we now havethe confidence that we candefeat the last remaininginsurgents and keep the peacein our country after theMarines go home.”

That sentiment expressedby Hadayapu, according toSgt. Maj. Michael Berg, battal-ion sergeant major, 1/3, isexactly what the Lava Dogs setout to accomplish when theyfirst arrived in country.

“I’ve always said our mis-sion here was to kill bad guysand train good guys,” saidBerg, a native of Plymouth,N.H. “The ANA are the goodguys. The more we train withthem and train them up to be

able to take over the securityof their country, the better offit is for everyone in the longrun.”

“If we came in here andtried to do everything our-selves, we would be marginal-izing the ANA and we cannotmarginalize them,” addedCapt. Bartholomew Battista,company commander, BravoCompany, 1/3. “We needthem to be in charge and runeverything for success in thelong term,” added the Kanab,Utah native.

Lieutenant Col. JamesBierman, commanding officer,1/3, said he credits his battal-ion’s success in Afghanistan tothe fact that the Marinesworked hand in hand on everyoperation with the Afghanmilitary.

“A re-enforced platoon withAfghan National Army sol-diers and U.S. Marines is themost potent combination onthe battlefield out here, withfire support teams that canemploy the whole gamut ofsupporting arms,” saidBierman, a native of Virginia.The government ofAfghanistan is going to winand the Coalition forces aregoing to win, and the villagersare seeing that.”

Afghan National Army and U.S. Marines serve side by side

U.S. and Coalition Forces casual-ties, according to Department ofDefense press releases.

In a solemn ceremony April30, the Marines honored fourmore of their own who werekilled recently during combatoperations in the Al AnbarProvince. Among the killed are:Sgt. Edward G. Davis, 31,Waukegan, Ill.; Sgt Lea R. Mills,21, Brooksville, Fla.; and Cpl.Brandon M. Hardy, 25, ofCochranville, Pa.; who werekilled April 28, when an IEDstruck their vehicle struck.

Cpl. Eric R. Lueken, 23, ofJasper, Ind., was also killed by anIED April 22.

Davis, Mills and Hardy wereassigned to the CampPendleton, Calif. – based withthe 3rd Assault AmphibianBattalion and were attached to3/3 for duty. Lueken wasassigned to 3/3.

Individual eulogies were readfor each of the fallen servicemembers by Marines who servedwith them.

Many of the Marines satstone faced and tried to hidetheir emotions as they reflectedon the fallen’s lives.

“These Marines are notheroes because of how theydied,” said 2nd Lt. Rajesh Mistry.“They are heroes because of howthey lived.”

Some Marines could onlyoffer a few words to describetheir fallen comrades.

“Lueken was the kind of guyyou could go to and tell how badyour day was and he wouldmake it better,” said Cpl.William Harrison. “It was stillregistering with me that he is nolonger with us.”

Sergeant Jim Coelho, 3rdAssault Amphibious Battalion,

worked very closely with Davis,Mills and Hardy.

“The Marines are not laugh-ing and joking with each otherlike they usually do,” saidCoelho. “We were all close; wewere all brothers.”

Gunnery Sgt. Jeff Duncan wasthe platoon sergeant for Davis,Mills and Hardy, and recalledcharacteristics of each one.

“Each one of them had some-thing different to offer the com-pany,” said Duncan. “Davis we

called ‘Manimal’ because he wasalways lifting weights. Millscould fix practically anything,and Hardy was a good leaderwho knew his job well.”

Duncan said Davis, whowould have been promoted May

1, will be posthumously promot-ed to staff sergeant.

During the memorial, NavyLt. Paul Tremblay led the singingof the Navy Hymn “EternalFather.”

After the playing of “Taps,”

the Marines paid final respects tothe fallen and left the makeshiftchapel the same way they shuf-fled in – with solemn faces.

The battalion is scheduled toreturn to the United States laterthis fall.

Cpl. Justin L. Schaeffer

Marines and Sailors of 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, shuffled into a makeshift cafeteria in Haditha, Iraq, to attend a memorial service, April 30, for four Marines whodied recently during combat operations in western Al Anbar Province, Iraq. A set of dog tags, combat boots, rifles and Kevlar helmets represented each Marine who died. Amongthose memorialized were: Sgt. Edward G. Davis, 31, of Waukegan, Ill.; Sgt. Lea R. Mills, 21, of Brooksville, Fla.; and Cpl. Brandon M. Hardy, 25, of Cochranville, Pa.; and Cpl.Eric R. Lueken, 23, of Jasper, Ind. Mills, Hardy, and Davis, all assigned to the Camp Pendleton, Calif.-based 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, were killed, April 28, when theirvehicle struck an improvised explosive device.

priorities – reconstruction. Hespent much of the day review-ing contract proposals forupcoming projects.

Maamoon said hesees significant progress inAnbar’s near future and

explained that employmentand reconstruction are two ofthe keys.

“I don’t give it six months,”said Maamoon. “In twomonths, a lot will change.Now we know the cure, andthe way to stability has alreadystarted.”

The governor said he thinksthe process of awarding andconducting reconstructionand development projects iskey. “We have taken steps toaccelerate the stability process.The people from the local areawill be chosen as contractorsfor each area,” said Maamoon,

explaining that this processwould help alleviate unem-ployment while giving the cit-izens a vested interest in com-pleting and protectingdevelopment efforts.

“Life is changing, and weare building the future for thekids,” said Maamoon. “So the

people will feel responsible.”Money from the Iraqi cen-

tral government will aid in theprocess, according toMaamoon.

“The PM (prime minister)thankfully visited the provinceand dedicated $75 million ear-lier this year, and we are work-

ing hard to make these proj-ects happen,” he said.

His meetings focused onhow the promised moneyfrom the central governmentwould be spent. Maamoonsaid he also anticipates anoth-er $100 million from Baghdadfor the development of Anbar.

3/3, from A-1

GOVERN, from A-1


Sgt. Joe LindsayCombat Correspondent

JALALABAD, Afghanistan –One character’s name keptcoming up during actor GarySinise’s recent trip toJalalabad Airfield in easternAfghanistan where he paid avisit to the troops who weredeployed in support ofOperation EnduringFreedom.

Sinise may be arguably oneof the greatest and most ver-satile actors of our genera-tion, having played in award-winning movie roles thatrange from George in “OfMice and Men” – which healso directed – to hisBroadway role as Randall P.McMurphy in “One FlewOver the Cuckoo’s Nest” tohis current television role asDetective Mac Taylor in “CSI:New York.”

But among members of themilitary, there is one role thatstands out above all his oth-ers – Sinise’s Oscar-nominat-ed portrayal of Lt. Dan Taylorin 1994’s “Forrest Gump,”according to Sinise, whereever he visits service mem-bers, “They always call meLieutenant Dan. They justcan't help it.”

“All right!” exclaimed Pfc.William Cheatham, a fieldradio operator,Communications Platoon,Headquarters and ServiceCompany, 1st Battalion, 3rdMarine Regiment, after hav-ing his photograph takenwith Sinise – and an auto-graph. “My family back homeis never going to believe I metLieutenant Dan. He is such agreat actor. I can’t believe hecame all the way out here toAfghanistan to visit theMarines,” added the Paducah,Ky., native.

What Cheatham andmany others might not havebeen aware of at the time,however, is that travelinginto combat zones to meetwith the troops is old hat forSinise. He is perhaps the mostprolific celebrity when itcomes to visiting servicemembers on the front lines ofthe Global War on Terrorism,in addition to constantly vis-iting with service members insupport roles back in thestates.

“I make as many trips as Ican fit in, because I think it isimportant that you folks inthe military know that peopleare out there backing you upand doing what we can tosupport you,” said Sinise, anative of Highland Park, Ill.,and a founding member ofChicago’s influentialSteppenwolf TheaterCompany at 19. “Everychance I get, I just call up theUSO and ask them, ‘Wheredo you want me to go?’”

It seems that Sinise mayneed a hotline. In addition tohis visits to Iraq andAfghanistan, Sinise has alsovisited troops overseas inKuwait, Qatar, the UnitedArab Emirates, Singapore,Korea, Germany, theNetherlands, England, Italy,and Diego Garcia.

All told, Sinise has visitedAfghanistan 18 times with

the USO. He was also a part ofthe USO’s first tour toBaghdad in June of 2003,according to a USO pressrelease.

When he is not spendingtime with troops in combatzones, Sinise can usually befound visiting wounded com-bat vets at both Walter ReedArmy Medical Center inWashington, D.C., and at theNational Navy MedicalCenter in Bethesda, Md. Andthat doesn’t count his con-stant touring of militarybases in the states with the“Lt. Dan Band,” of whichSinise is the founder andbassist.

“He is very, very support-ive of the troops,” said Capt.Jesse Davidson, a circuit man-ager with Armed ForcesEntertainment. “He brings amessage to the troops thatpeople back home are think-ing of them,” continued theArlington, Va., native. “Heloves talking to the guys andhearing their stories. It’s ahuge morale boost for thetroops.”

Sinise had plenty of oppor-tunity to mingle withMarines, Sailors, airmen andsoldiers during his visit toJalalabad, and to hear somestories as well.

“I was expecting that hewould just sign an autographand take a picture with youand that would be that, buthe really takes the time tolook you in the eye and talkwith you,” said Lance Cpl.Jordan Mazur, a riflemanwith Headquarters Platoon,Alpha Company, 1/3. “Hewas so down to earth and justlike a regular guy. Probablythe best part about meetinghim was that he just made usfeel like we were importantand he made us all feel likewe mattered,” added theSarasota, Fla., native.

“It’s not often that Marinesget to meet someone asfamous as him,” said 1st Sgt.Jerry Fowler, company firstsergeant, Alpha Company,1/3. “It says a lot about him

as a man that he would comeout here and show his sup-port to us by visiting with theMarines. It’s a morale boostand we all really appreciatedit,” continued the native ofMoore, Okla.

Sinise said he was morethan happy to oblige.

“The whole purpose of mecoming out here is just to tryto boost morale, to break upthe day a little bit for the peo-ple who are out here workinghard on the front lines,” saidSinise. “If I can show up andmeet some troops, shakesome hands and take somepictures, then that’s the leastI can do. I just want to showhow much I appreciate whatour troops are doing for ourcountry.”

In addition to constantly

visiting with the troops whenhe is not on a Broadway stageor a movie or television stu-dio set, Sinise has also co-founded Operation IraqiChildren, which provideseducational materials to chil-dren in Iraq. Sinise does morethan just lend his name tothe operation, he activelyparticipates. On his last visitto Iraq, Sinise accompaniedservice members as theyrebuilt an Iraqi school.

His constant support ofthe troops has not goneunnoticed, as Secretary ofDefense Donald Rumsfeld vis-ited Sinise on the set of “CSI:New York” last year to thankhim for his constant supportof America’s service members.

“I just want the troops toknow that there are a lot of

people back home who knowhow hard they are workingand what a dangerous jobthey have,” said Sinise. “It isimportant to me that thetroops know how much wecare about them back home –that they know there are peo-ple backing them up. Godbless the troops.”

As he prepared to board ahelicopter at JalalabadAirfield – the veteran actor ofsuch films as “Apollo 13,”“Ransom,” “The Green Mile,”“Reindeer Games,” “Missionto Mars” and “The Stand,”and Emmy award winner forOutstanding Lead Actor in“George Wallace,” andGolden Globe award winnerfor Best Actor in a TV Movieor Miniseries for “Truman,”and, of course, an Academy

Award nominee for BestSupporting Actor “in ForrestGump” for his portrayal of Lt.Dan – Sinise seemed to havetransformed himself fromworld famous celebrity actorto just another Marine serv-ing his country.

“He’s one of us,” said Sgt.Scott Lindberg, ofCommunications Platoon,Headquarters and ServiceCompany, 1/3. “He is sup-porting us not only backhome in the states but alsoon the front lines overseas,”continued the Kent, Wash.,native. “It makes me feelgood to know there are goodpeople like Gary Sinise outthere who never forget aboutus serving over here in com-bat. He is an American patri-ot.”

Lance Cpl. Edward C.deBree


Officials from the Tongangovernment visited here,May 2, to get a glimpse ofthe way the Marine Corpstrains its Marines for battle.

Sonatane Tu'akinamolahi,Minister of Foreign Affairsand Defense, took a touraround Marine Corps BaseHawaii to view what histroops will be working withwhen they arrive later thismonth to train with 3rdMarine Regiment.

Upon arriving, theTongans had lunch with Lt.Gen. John F. Goodman,commanding general, U.S.Marine Forces Pacific, andBrig. Gen. Steven A.Hummer, commanding gen-eral, Marine Corps BaseHawaii, Kaneohe Bay, at theOfficers Club, here.

After lunch the officialsattended an orientation tofamiliarize them with thefacilities that MCBH has tooffer, before taking a tour ofthe base.

One of their stops on thetour was at the 3rd MarineRegiment Headquarterswhere they met Lt. Col. JayJ. Krail, executive officer,and Lt. Col. Stephen E.Duke, intelligence officer,and talked about the train-ing the Tongan troops willbe going through with theK-Bay Marines.

The Tongans then visitedthe 3rd Marine Regiment toget a glimpse of the capabil-ities of the Indoor SimulatedMarksmanship Trainer. Atthe trainer, Marines demon-strated how the systemworks by showing theTongans how the computersimulates a real combat situ-ation. The Marines fired the

M-16A2 service rifle, the 50-caliber machine gun, M 9pistol, and the Anti-tankrocket launcher at simulatedenemy forces that wereadvancing toward them.

After viewing the ISMT,the Tongans toured Barracks5071 to get an idea as to theMarines’ living quarters andhow the area is maintained.

The final stop of their tripwas at the Pacific WarMemorial where they werepresented with a photo-graph taken earlier in theday as a memento of theirvisit.

When the Tongan troopsarrive here later this monthto train with the regiment,their training will befocused on small-unit tac-tics, individual infantryskills, and basic MilitaryOperations in Urban Terrainskills as part of the Talafaku2006 training exercise.

Tongans tour MCBH

Sgt. Joe Lindsay

Actor and director Gary Sinise poses for a picture at the Jalalabad Airfield in Afghanistan with Marines from the 1st Battalion, 3rd MarineRegiment. The Lava Dogs are (from the left) Staff Sgt. Luis Lopez, an infantry platoon sergeant from San Antonio, Pfc. William Cheatham, afield radio operator from Paducha, Ky., Sgt. Scott Lindberg, a radio supervisor from Kent Wash., and Lance Cpl. Jordan Mazur, a riflemanfrom Sarasota, Fla.

Actor, director Gary Sinise (left) and singer Wayne Newton appearon stage together at Fort Hood, Texas, for a welcome home event forthe Army’s 4th Infantry Division. Sinise, a huge supporter ofAmerican troops, recently visited service members at the JalalabadAirfield in Afghanistan who were deployed to the area in support ofthe Global War on Terrorism.

‘Lt. Dan’ visits 3/3 in Afghanistan


Sgt. Roe F. Seigle3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment

HADITHA, Iraq — Since theirarrival in the Al Anbar Province near-ly two months ago, Marines say IraqiSecurity Forces are progressing towardrelieving Coalition Forces and stabi-lizing the region.

In this rural region along theEuphrates River valley, the transitionfrom U.S.-led to Iraqi-led militaryoperations is well on its way, accord-ing to one Marine who has spentnearly two months mentoring Iraqisoldiers in this region.

But the atmosphere in this portionof western Al Anbar Province haschanged since Saddam Hussein wasremoved from office in 2003.

Instead of daily firefights againstan armed, known enemy, similar towhat Coalition Forces experiencedduring the push to Baghdad threeyears ago, Marines deployed to Iraqare focusing on showing Iraqi soldiersand police how to spearhead securityoperations on their own.

“The progress I have seen the IraqiArmy make in the last few monthsmakes me confident we can withdrawCoalition Forces from the area in thenext six to eight months,” said Lt.Col. Owen Lovejoy, the senior advi-sor for the Military Transition Team,which supports and advises the IraqiArmy unit stationed here.

One example of that progress cameearlier this month, when a joint-Iraqiand U.S. military operation near

Baghdadi, a small town just south ofHaditha, resulted in three detainedinsurgents.

Local police, Iraqi soldiers and agroup of Marines from WeaponsCompany, 3rd Battalion, 3rd MarineRegiment, spearheaded the jointoperation that was considered to be acollaborative effort that led to results,according to Maj. Eric W. Kelly,Weapons Company’s commandingofficer.

Moreover, the operation highlight-ed the proficiency and cooperationbetween local police, Iraqi soldiersand Coalition Forces, he said.

“Iraqi soldiers and Marines are ona mission to ensure that the people ofthis area remain safe and that theinsurgency has no room to thrivehere,” said Kelly in an e-mailresponse to questions. “The ‘Sons ofIraq,’ take this goal quite seriously.”

So far, progress seems steady in theregion. Iraqi Security Forces have con-ducted four operations on their own,reconstruction efforts are in theworks to rebuild war-torn towns andvillages, and local Iraqi leaders aremeeting regularly to discuss and planfuture efforts with the Marines.

Marine leaders say more than 30insurgents have been captured, andthree insurgent cells have been elimi-nated due to the combined efforts ofMarines and Iraqi soldiers.

More importantly, security condi-tions seem to be improving in theHaditha Triad area along the upperwestern Euphrates Valley, as evi-

denced by a regular meeting of localcity and tribal officials, a meetingwhich would not have been possiblea year ago, according to Lt. Col.Norman Cooling, commanding offi-cer, 3/3.

Thanks to improving security con-ditions, such a meeting is now possi-ble, according to Cooling. Six monthsago, local Iraqi leaders were targetedby insurgents for cooperating withCoalition Forces, said Cooling, whoalso attended the meeting thatincluded more than a dozen sheiks,mayors, and other prominent localIraqi leadership, to discuss securityand reconstruction efforts in the area.

Now, local leaders can meet to dis-cuss issues that impact the progress oftheir towns and villages. The council-men had no qualms about walking tothe meeting with Coalition Forces inbroad daylight.

“Since the councilmen agreed tomeet with us, it proves they want towork with us and they believe we areinterested in addressing their con-cerns,” said Cooling.

“The Marines have stabilized thesecurity in the city,” said a local triballeader after the meeting. “One yearago, a meeting like this would nevertake place because the criminal acts ofinsurgents would have prevented it.”

During the three-hour meeting,Iraqi councilmen expressed concernssuch as potential reconstructionefforts of a footbridge destroyed dur-ing combat operations last year.

The footbridge connects the cities

of Barwana and Haqlaniyah, bothpart of the Haditha “Triad,” and wasone of several concerns local leadersdiscussed during the meeting. Theysaid a refurbished bridge would bringstability to the local economy by pro-viding a way for locals to transportgoods between the two cities.

“The reconstruction of the foot-bridge is paramount to the lives ofmany businesses here,” said a coun-cilman during the meeting. “A bettereconomy means more jobs and lesscitizens turning to the insurgency fora source of income.”

Cooling also elicited support fromthe Haditha city council for therecruitment of Iraqi police in thearea. He strongly stressed the impor-tance of a police force being formedto continue the suppression of insur-gency.

“The councilmen are consideringsupporting us in the police recruit-ment,” said Cooling. “Right now theywant to see results from their requestsand we are going to make sure theysee them.”

Last year, police recruitment wasattempted in the Haditha “Triad,” butinsurgents threatened and intimidat-ed anyone willing to be recruited,according to several Iraqi leaders atthe meeting.

Cooling said the Iraqi leaders’ con-cerns would be addressed and planswould be made to rebuild the foot-bridge, as long as these meetings con-tinue and the city councilmen con-sider supporting a recruitment drive

for potential Iraqi police officers. “We know the Marines are here to

help the citizens of Haditha,” said acouncilman after the meeting.“When they address our concernsand support our requests, the localpeople are going to notice this and inturn support them as well.”

The meeting also brought abouttalk of possible modifications to cur-rent security measures in the area.Both sides of the table agreed securitymeasures were necessary to stop theflow of insurgents into the city, butthe Iraqi said some of the measures,such as traffic control points, are aninconvenience to local residents.

Cooling said the issue would beaddressed, but made no promises.Modifying the security measurescould allow for an increase in insur-gent activity.

Though such meetings are a stepin the right direction to improvesecurity conditions in this volatilearea of Al Anbar Province, both Iraqisand American leaders here say morework is needed before CoalitionForces can permanently leave theregion, such as the recruitment, train-ing and establishment of a localpolice force and reconstruction of keycomponents to local infrastructure.

The Marines said they would con-tinue to work with local leadership toimprove both security and quality oflife for the Iraqi people.

Cooling said, “We will we showthem through our actions we careabout their concerns.”

Steady progress in Iraq heightens hope for coalition withdrawal

Gas prices leave tanks dry, wallets thin

Photos by Lance Cpl. Ryan Trevino

Above: Gas prices sat well above $3 per gallon on baseTuesday. According to the American Automobile Association,the national average price for a gallon of regular unleadedgasoline was $2.89 last week. This time last year, the nation-al average was $2.18.

Left: Cpl. Shaun A. Neizman, seperations clerk, InboundPersonnel Administration Center, Headquarters Battalion,fills up his truck with gas on base here Tuesday. It costsZeizman 70 dollars to fill up his truck with the current gasprice. With the rising gas prices, more Marines and Sailorssay they are hurting financially.

Marine Regiment in more than130 successful patrol missions.His expertise led to the detain-ment of 13 known insurgentsand the disruption of insurgentnetworks in and aroundFallujah, Iraq. This isMendykowski’s first NavyAchievement Medal. He said itfelt good to be awarded themedal and that he was glad tobe home again.

Merjil received his achieve-ment for his role as a geospatialanalyst and team leader for 3rdRadio Battalion while serving insupport of OIF. His citation stat-ed that he worked relentlesslyto identify, develop, and prose-cute insurgent targets through-out the area of operations,Raleigh. His contributions tothe mission were key to theoperation’s many successes inand around Fallujah. Merjil saidthat it is always good to be rec-

ognized for his accomplish-ments.

Lieutenant Gen. Weber alsoawarded Gunnery Sgt. Cory L.Sparks, senior analyst,Headquarters and SupportCompany, 3rd Radio Battalion;Staff Sgt. James F. Watkins,information system securitymanager, H&S Company; andSgt. Aaron A. Kohl, team leader,6th platoon, Alpha Companywith the Navy and MarineCorps Commendation Medal atFriday’s ceremony.

Sparks received his thirdNavy Commendation Medal forhis role as the operations con-trol and analysis center watchchief and operations controlelement eight operations chieffor 3rd Radio Battalion duringOIF. According to his NavyCommendation Medal citation,Sparks’ is recognized for hiscombined national, theater, andtactical signals intelligencecapabilities, which includes

operational results to identifythe nature and sources of theinsurgency.

“It’s very exciting to have theIII MEF general here to presentthe awards to us,” said Sparks.

Watkins received his secondNavy Commendation Medal forhis role as the communicationsofficer and chief for 3rd RadioBattalion in support of OIF fromJune 15, 2005 through February20 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. Watkinsserved as the main link betweenthe electronic key managementsystem in Hawaii, for four differ-ent electronic key managementsystem managers in Iraq, andunits deployed to the area. Hiscitation states that his persever-ance, initiative, and dedicationto the mission were a key factorto success. Watkins said it wasnice to be recognized for theefforts he put forth in Iraq.

Kohl, who received his firstNavy Commendation Medal forhis role as the signals intelli-

gence support team leaderwhile deployed to Iraq, praisedhis wife and team members fortheir support.

He said that he couldn’t haveaccomplished the things he didwithout his wife and withoutthe help of his team.

“I felt honored,” said Kohl.I’d like to thank my wife for all

her support.”Kohl was in charge of 24-

hour collection site, whichidentified multiple insurgentnetworks, weapons caches,smuggling operations, and for-eign fighter influence whiledeployed to the Syrian borderregion.

deployed to the Syrian bor-


Kasal is a true Americanhero.”

When the then1st ser-geant assisted one of his pla-toons with an over watchinside Fallujah that day,intense gunfire broke out inan Iraqi home to his imme-diate front.

Seconds later, Marineswere rapidly exiting thebuilding, known as the“House of Hell.”

“That house was a deathtrap,” said Maj. Gen.Lehnert. “It was set up forone purpose – to kill UnitedStates Marines.” Kasal couldhave easily stayed out of thehouse.”

When he found out thatthere were Marines stillpinned down inside the infa-mous house, nothing theinsurgents could put on thetable would stop him fromrescuing his Marines.

“Going in for them wasthe right thing to do,” saidKasal, a native of Afton,Iowa. “They’re Marines, andI’m a Marine. We look outfor each other.”

Upon entry of the house,the 39-year-old found him-self face-to-face with aninsurgent who he neutral-ized at extremely closerange. Shortly afterward, AK-47 gunfire was coming fromall directions, and Kasal washit from behind.

“While I was in thathouse, I made three life ordeath decisions,” Kasal said.“I never thought I would livethrough any of them, but Idid what I did to help theother Marines.”

The first decision Kasalmade was to expose himselfto enemy fire in order to pullanother wounded Marineout of the line of fire. Kasaltook more enemy fire doingthis.

While both Marines wereunder cover, they assessedtheir wounds. Both had mul-tiple injuries, but there wereonly enough bandages forone of them to live.

Kasal made his seconddecision to forfeit his med-ical supplies to the otherMarine.

“It made more sense touse all of the bandages onone of us then to split thesupplies and have us bothbleed to death,” Kasal said.

The insurgents deployed ahand grenade to get theMarines out of cover, and itlanded within a few feet ofthe two bleeding Marines.

Kasal then decided to usehis own severely woundedbody to protect the Marinefrom shrapnel.

By the time he was carriedout of the house by LanceCpl. Chris Marquez andLance Cpl. Dan Shaffer asLucian M. Reed, anAssociated Press photogra-pher snapped the iconicphoto displayed at MarineCorps installations all overthe globe, Kasal had lostapproximately 60 percent ofhis blood from more than 40shrapnel wounds and seven7.62 mm AK-47 gunshots.

One day prior to beingawarded the Navy CrossKasal’s father passed away.

However, a live video tele-conference feed to Kasal’shometown provided hismother, family members andfriends an opportunity towatch him receive the NavyCross, be promoted to therank of sergeant major andreenlist for three years.

“It’s been a very emotion-al week,” Kasal said. “I amblessed to recover from myinjuries, which the doctorsthought would never hap-pen, and regain my place inthe Marine Corps. I wouldtake the pain of surgeries anyday over the pain of beingaway from my Marines.”

Lance Cpl. Ryan Trevino

Lt. Gen. Joseph Weber, commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force, prepares to award medals to five Marines from 3rd Radio Battalion during a ceremony here, Friday.Two Navy Commendation Medals and three Navy Achievement Medals, with the combat "V" device for valor, were presented to the Marines.

KASAL, from A-1

MEDALS, from A-1

LL IFESTYLESI FESTYLESHawaii

MMARINEARINE

HAWAII MARINE B SECTION MAY 12, 2006

Not your average market place

Hand-drawn paintings by local artists cover a display at one of the stands in the InternationalMarket Place, Waikiki.

Justin Hwang, a candle maker at International Market Place, makes a decorative candle for acustomer at his kiosk.

Decorative candles with cartoon figures sit on shelves at the International Market Place, Waikiki. The market offersa diverse shopping opportunity for locals and visitors.

Bright, multi-colored silk flower leis adorn the side of a display table at the International Market Place, Waikiki.

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Roger L. Nelson


Whether a tourist on vacation or military mem-ber, everyone wants something to remind them ofall the places they have traveled.

On Oahu there are many places to pick up itemsthat will do just that, but one of the biggest andmost famous locations is the International MarketPlace, located in the middle of Waikiki.

“The market place has been here forever and is abig attraction,” said Justin Hwang, candle maker,International Market Place. “A lot of tourists comehere so they can bring little gifts back to theirfriends.”

The market place has more than 130 carts,shops, and art stands where people can roamaround and pick out what they’re looking for.

“The history of the market actually dates back to– I think – the 50s,” said Hwang.

It was Donn Beach, an entrepreneur, whoannounced, on January 16, 1955, that there was tobe a new use for the area known as Ka-lua-O-kau.The area was to have a new Hawaiian village builtand named the International Market Place.

The market place was originally designed toencompass 14 acres of the Queen Emma Estate,which included land between the Waikiki Theaterand the Princess Kaiulani Hotel and extend fromKalakaua to Kuhio avenues.

Intended to catch the tourist’s eye, the marketplace reflected the early awareness of the fact thatcultural tourism required a creative vision.

Over the last 100 years, the International MarketPlace has undergone many changes. Today, themarket place is a busy shopping village that is shad-ed by its historic banyan tree.

“A lot of people come here thinking the marketplace is just something Hawaiians throw togetherovernight to gain a buck or two,” said Gary Louis,market place employee. “They don’t realize the his-tory behind it and how it came to be what it istoday.”

Christopher L. Johnston, an architect visitingfrom the mainland, said this was the first time heand his family have been to Hawaii, but the marketplace was one of the first places they visited.

“It’s just in a great location, with a lot of interest-ing stuff,” said Johnston, a San Clemente, Calif.native. “My wife and daughter have spent most ofthe time we’ve been in Hawaii in the market place.Every day they show me something they’ve boughtat the market place to bring home to their friends.”

Johnston said that going to the market to pickup souvenirs is a good thing because visitingHawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for some peo-ple.

“When you come to Hawaii, you definitely go tothe market place and pick up some sort of souvenirand take some pictures,” he said. “because whoknows when you’ll get that chance again.”

B-2 • MAY 12, 2006 HAWAII MARINE

Prices: For Friday and Saturday shows at 7:15, prices are $3 for adults, 12 and older; $1.50 for children 6to 11. Matinee prices are $2 for adults, $1 for children. Parents must purchase tickets for R-rated movies in per-son at the box office for children 16-years-old and younger. Prices for Sunday, Wednesday shows at 6:30 andFriday and Saturday shows at 9:45 are $2 for adults and $1.50 for children. Show your ID card when purchas-ing tickets. Entry is free for children 5 and younger.

Sneak Preview Policy: One hour and 45 minutes prior to the movie, tickets will be issued to first prioritypatrons waiting in line, then second and third priority patrons.

In an effort to prevent piracy, the following security measures will be enforced on base for sneak preview screen-ings: bag checks, confiscation of cameras or cell phones with picture taking capability (items will be returned afterscreening), magnetometer wanding, audience scanning with night vision goggles during screening.

The Base Theater and film companies thank you in advance for your cooperation and hope you will enjoy theshow. For recorded information, call the Base Theater at 254-7642.

MMOVIEOVIE TTIMEIMEInside Man (R)V for Vendetta (R)The Shaggy Dog (PG)She’s the Man(PG-13)The Shaggy Dog (PG)She’s the Man (PG-13)The Hills Have Eyes (R)Ice Age 2: The Meltdown (PG) Stay Alive (PG-13)

Today at 7:15 p.m.Today at 9:45 p.mSaturday at 7:15 p.m.

Saturday at 9:45 p.m.Sunday at 2:00 p.mSunday at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at6:30 p.m.Friday at 7:15 p.m.Friday at 9:45 p.m.

Kahuna’s Sports Bar &Grill

254-7660/7661

Live entertainment tonight featur-ing the alternative rock band Analog, start-ing at 10 p.m.

Mondays are NTN Trivia nights,where you can win prizes for those uselessfactoids. Play against patrons of Sports Barsfrom around the world and on the lastMonday of each month, play for a golf bag.

Hot Country Nights are featuredevery Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. Thisweek, tip your hats to Dita Holifield andRed Handed.

Staff NCO Club254-5481

Mother’s Day Brunch is Sunday from10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a wide selectionof hot and cold entrées especially chosenfor mom. Indulge in assorted desserts andbeverages. Reservations are required.

Membership Appreciation Night isthe third Wednesday in March at the club.This free, members-only event will be heldfrom 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Rocker Room.Not a member? Join at the door.

Pub Night at the Pub with NoName is from 6 to 9 p.m. every Friday,Wednesday and Thursday. Drop by forsome tasty, fast and inexpensive treats.

Pay Day Lunch Buffet is nextFriday. The all-you-can-eat buffet boasts anarray of main dishes, salads and side choic-es. While you’re there, fill out a patronagesurvey and let your voice be heard.

The Officers’ Club254-7650

Sunday features Mother’s DayBrunch from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Treatyour mom to a selection of cold and hotmenus especially designed to please her.The feast includes award-winning south ofthe border ahi poke, create-your-ownomelette station, Belgian waffles, and pan-cakes with assorted flavored butter.Reservations are required.

All Hands

MCBH Job Fair. Today’s event is freeand open to all DoD personnel and familymembers who are seeking employmentand other opportunities. The event will beat Kahuna’s Ballroom from 9 a.m. to noon.Call 257-7790 for more information.

Marriage Enrichment Training/CREDO at the MCCS Cabanas starts todayat 5:30 p.m. and ends Sunday at noon. This48-hour retreat gives couples the opportu-nity to make good marriages even better.Call 257-1919 for more information.

Transition Assistance ProgramSeminar will be held Monday throughThursday at Building 279, 2nd floor, 8 a.m.to 4 p.m., daily. The seminar is open to allhands who are within one year of separa-tion. Call 257-7790 for more information.

Tuesday’s Parenting Proudly classprovides the military community withinformation on improving parenting skillsand disciplining techniques. The two-hourclass begins at 10 a.m. in Building. 216,Room 71. Reservations are required. Call257-8803 for more information.

L.I.N.K.S. Training — Lifestyles,Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skillsis a class for spouses new to the island orthe military lifestyle. This two-day sessionwill take place on Tuesday and Wednesdayfrom 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., daily, at theL.I.N.K.S. House, Building 3074. Call 257-7777 for more information.

Ongoing

Asian Pacific American HeritageDisplay is on display now through May15 at the Base Library in celebration ofAsian American/Pacific Islander month.Call 254-7624.

MCCS Briefswww.mccshawaii.com

White House report outlinesroles in flu pandemic response

Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, D.C. — If a flupandemic hit the United States,

the Defense Department's top pri-ority would be to protect the mil-itary's operational readiness so itcan play a supporting role to the

Homeland Security and Statedepartments, as outlined in a

national response plan releasedtoday by the White House.

The 227-page ImplementationPlan for the National Strategy forPandemic Influenza provides aroad map for marshaling theresponse, detailing roles andresponsibilities for federal depart-ments and agencies. It also setsexpectations for state and localgovernments and nonfederal enti-ties.

The plan includes more than300 critical actions, many alreadyinitiated, to address the avian andpandemic flu threat, FrancesTownsend, the president'sDepartment of Homeland Securityadviser, told reporters today.

"I should make it clear from theoutset that we do not knowwhether the bird virus we are see-ing overseas will ever become ahuman virus, and we cannot pre-dict whether a human virus willlead to a pandemic," Townsend

said. She noted that the H5N1virus has infected just 205 peopleto date, killing 113 of thoseinfected. "However, it is possiblethat if the virus undergoes genet-ic changes, it could signal thestart of a human epidemic," shesaid.

And in the event that it does,Townsend said it's critical thatpeople understand and preparefor the worst-case scenario.

Planning for such a scenariohelps ensure a coordinatedresponse to prevent or slow theinfection's spread and helps "takethe fear out of it so there's notchaos," she said.

Should a pandemic such as theH5N1 bird flu hit the UnitedStates, DoD would support theDepartment of HomelandSecurity in domestic preparednessand response, consistent with itsU.S. national security mission,defense officials said. At the sametime, the department would sup-port the State Department inaddressing the crisis internation-ally.

But the department's top prior-ity would be to protect the mili-tary's operational readiness bytaking care of military forces,civilian personnel, dependentsand beneficiaries, according to AirForce Col. Richard Chavez, senior

military adviser for civil support.To ensure it's able to do that,

DoD has established stockpiles ofvaccines to keep service membershealthy and able to protect thecountry. This stockpile includesabout 2.7 million doses of H5N1avian influence vaccine and 2.4million treatment courses of anti-virals.

The department is also devel-oping systems for inpatient andoutpatient disease surveillance atits institutions worldwide, accord-ing to Ellen Embrey, deputy assis-tant secretary for health protec-tion and readiness.

Protecting the force and main-taining essential functions andservices would ensure the militaryis able to use its people andresources to support the overallresponse, Chavez said.

For example, military planesmight be requested to transportcritical resources, officials said.The department's medical surveil-lance and laboratory testing facil-

ities could be tapped. Militaryforces might be asked to providesecurity as pharmaceuticals aretransported and distributed.Military medical staffs might pro-vide critical patient care. NationalGuard troops would likely helpkeep the peace.

Recognizing their potentialrole, U.S. European Command,U.S. Northern Command and U.S.Pacific Command have alreadysponsored pandemic influenceresponse exercises, Chavez said.

In his preface to the plan,President Bush said a U.S.response to a flu pandemic willrequire the participation andcoordination of all levels of gov-ernment and segments and socie-ty.

Bush wrote, "Our nation willface this global threat united inpurpose and united in action inorder to best protect our families,our communities, our nation andour world from the threat of pan-demic influenza.”

Lee Noel studies influenza strain samples. Noel is a technician at the AirForce Institute for Operational Health virology laboratory.

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Alfonso Ramirez

A service member gives himself a good hand washing. Good hand-washingtechniques are said to be the best measure in the prevention of not only theAvian Flu but other diseases and illnesses as well.

Air Force Master Sgt. Lance Cheung

Never forget

Staff Sgt. Ronna M. Weyland

Holocaust survivor, Jack Adler, speaks to attendees during a Days of Remembrance luncheon held at Anderson Hall Dining Facilityhere, May 2. Adler was born in Pabianice, Poland, in 1929 and lived under Nazi rule from the age of 10 to 16. In 1945, Americansliberated Camp Dachau. He was the only member of his immediate family to survive the Nazi death camp. He came to Americaand lived in Chicago, Ill., until 1985, then he moved to Denver, Col., where he began sharing his story. Adler said he believes thebest way to fight ignorance is with education, so he attends speaking engagements throughout the year.

HAWAII MARINE MAY 12, 2006 • B-3

Corporal follows in uncle’s footsteps


Children have numerous hopes and dreamsof what they will become as adults. Through theyears, those thoughts and dreams usuallychange a few times, but for one Sailor, child-hood dreams remained true.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Anna Rhees, aviationelectronic technician and microminature elec-tronic repairman, Special Project PatrolSquadron 9, said the Navy had always been inher plans.

“I always wanted to be a pilot. Since I was alittle girl, it’s really all I wanted to do,” said theDavid Crockett High School, Jonesborough,Tenn. graduate. “Then I grew up and still hadthose dreams, so in my senior year, I talked tomy recruiter and he told me about the Navy avi-ation program, and I knew it was for me. Also, Ithought it would be a good career move – espe-cially since I love planes.”

Rhees enlisted into the Navy in May 2002with dreams of someday becoming a helicopterpilot.

“When I told my parents that I was enlisting,my mom was screaming and was so happy forme because she always wanted to join the Navybut wasn’t allowed,” said Rhees. “My dad, onthe other hand, was happy, but I think that wasmore because he thought it would help me growand mature.”

After Rhees completed basic training, sheattended her Navy specialty school inPensacola, Fla., and checked into VPU-2 in June2003.

“My job is pretty much a lot of trouble shoot-ing and fixing electronics on the P3C (patrol)aircraft,” said the 21-year-old. “I’m also incharge of the VPU-2 color guard and spend a lotof time working with that.

“It’s cool being in a leadership position, espe-cially of the color guard, because it makes mesee the traditions of the Navy a little more.”

Rhees is currently enrolled at Hawaii PacificUniversity and is working toward a degree inmarketing.

“My goal when I joined the Navy was to dothe Seaman to Admiral program and become anofficer, but things didn’t work out,” said the LasVegas native. “Now I’m trying to get as muchcollege as I can out of the way and then decidewhat exactly I want to do with my life. I thinkthe Navy is an awesome career choice, but I’mgoing to do all I can to eventually be a pilot.”

According to Rhees, she isn’t 100 percent surewhat the future holds for her, but she has ideas.

“My long-term and most realistic goal that Ican see happening is finishing my enlistmentand attending college and finally earning mydegree,” said Rhees. “After that, who knows? I’dlike to think that I’ll eventually attend OCS(Officer Candidate School) and maybe become ahelicopter pilot for the Army or the Navy.”

Rhees said that she has had a lot of goodtimes since joining the Navy.

“The four years I’ve spent in the Navy havebeen pretty interesting and exciting,” saidRhees. “Now I just want to take the next stepand see what else there is to offer out there. Iknow being in the Navy will open a lot of doorsfor me, so who knows where I’ll end up.”


Petty Officer 3rd Class Anna Rhees, aviation electronic technician and microminature electronic repair-man, Special Project Patrol Squadron 9, here, pauses to pose for a photograph outside Hanger 105, here.Rhees said that she has wanted to be a Navy pilot ever since she was a little girl and still holds strong tothat dream.

Petty Officer lives her dreams


For some Marines there is an event or periodof time that sticks out in their mind as thehighlight of their career, but for others, wearingthe title of U.S. Marine is enough of a highlight.

Corporal Brandon L. Allomong, currentlyserving as base inspector administration clerk,here, said that being a Marine has been prettysatisfying.

“It’s been a dream to be in the Marine Corpssince I was in seventh grade,” admittedAllomong. “My uncle was in the Marines andwas stationed at New River, so I sort of followedin his footsteps.”

Allomong said he comes from a close-knitfamily. He also said that father was very strictand always kept him and his sister in line.

“I had a fun but a hard time growing up,because my dad was a stickler for discipline,”said the Pioneer, Ohio native. “We were alwayspushed to be on the honor roll in high schooland to be ambitious at whatever we did.”

Allomong’s parents were very supportive ofhis decision to enlist and pushed him to be thebest he could be.

“My father always wanted to be a Marine,but didn’t think it would be a good choicebecause he was married and had a daughter,”said the North Central High School graduate.

June 23, 2003, is when Allomong arrived atMarine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C.,where the transformation from civilian toMarine took place. After Marine CombatTraining and his Military OccupationalSpecialty School, he checked into Marine AirLogistics Squadron-24, here, in March 2004.

My workday usually consisted of the Marineschecking the tools to make sure they’re all thereand in good working condition, recalled the 22-year-old of his job at MALS-24.

After that process is completed, he wouldthen be assigned to work on engine compo-

nents.“As a corporal, you’re considered a leader to

Marines and you have to counsel them and justfind out general information about what’sgoing on in their life on top of your regularjob,” explained. Allomong, who said that beingin a leadership position, changed his perspec-tive of the Marine Corps in certain ways.

“You see a lot as a lance corporal and below,but as an NCO (noncommissioned officer) youget to see what really happens,” said Allomong.“You have to be aware of everything dealingwith yourself and all of your Marines.”

Obtaining his airframe and power plantlicense is something he said that he wants toachieve while he’s in the service.

“I’m going to use the Marine Corps as a step-ping stone to help me prepare for the future soI can provide a good household for my family,”said Allomong. “Picking up corporal was nice,and now I’m going to strive to pick up sergeant– meritoriously. I want to see as much rank as Ican while I’m in the Marines.”

Allomong recently transferred from MALS-24 the Base Inspector’s Office where he will beassigned for approximately nine months – hop-ing then to return to his unit and deploy toIraq. But, he also said that if that doesn’t hap-pen, he’d take in stride.

“Even though I haven’t deployed I still haveenjoyed my time in the Marines,” Allomongsaid. “I’ve had good and bad times, you just gotto take what is thrown at you.”

Allomong said he is unsure if he will contin-ue his current career, but said the Marine Corpshas definitely helped him and is a step in theright direction.

“I’ve already gotten job offers, but am look-ing at being a civil service worker or U.S.Marshal in Oklahoma City,” said Allomong.

“But no matter what I do, I’ll always remem-ber the main thing I learned during my time inthe Marines – that no matter how bad thingsget, always strive to succeed for the best.”

Marine takes headshot and walks awayCpl. Brian Reimers

1st Marine Division

FALLUJAH, Iraq — If anyonewas proud to be labeled hardheaded,it’s Pfc. Fred M. Linck. The 19-year-old from Westbrook, Conn., took anenemy shot to the head and walkedaway with little more than a sorenoggin and a white bandage.

Linck, a Marine assigned to 1stBattalion, 25th Marine Regiment,Regimental Combat Team 5, wasstruck by a single enemy bullet May5.

“It seemed like just another dayin the city of Fallujah,” Linck said,an infantryman assigned to CCompany. “But everything changedfor me that day.”

The young Marine just got off ofa security post and was tasked to bepart of a reaction force. The forcewas gearing up to respond to a callfor help in the city.

“We got some intelligence statingthat there was a possible improvisedexplosive device on the corner ofthe main street in Fallujah,” Lincksaid. “My team of Marines reacted tothe call and showed up to the site.We immediately dismounted ourvehicles and set up a cordon of thearea.”

Some of the other men in theteam didn’t want to believe that itwas a normal mission for them, infact, they had planned on it beingmuch more than that.

“Something told me that this wasgoing to be a set up, a pretty usualtactic for the insurgents to use

against us,” said Lance Cpl. RandonO. Hogen, a fellow infantrymen andmember of Linck’s fire team.

Hogen’s gut instincts were right.Somewhere in the shadows of

the concrete buildings, an insurgentwas waiting for the Marines to comeinto his view.

“I was running back across thestreet after we had confirmed thatthe IED we responded to was in factnot one, when I heard the shot,”said Lance Cpl. Kelvin J. Grisales,fire team leader and Linck’s friend.

A single shot cracked through theair. Everyone jolted and not evenLinck, who was hit, knew what hap-pened.

“After the shot rang out, Iremember hearing someone scream-ing ‘Man down, Man down,” Lincksaid. “I realized a second later thatman was me. I was on the ground.”

It took a couple seconds foreverything to appear clear to Linck.The sounds of Marines calling forhelp weren’t for anyone but him,but he was ready to get up and fight.

“I was pretty scared when I real-ized that I had just taken a round tothe head, but the scariest part wasthat I was thinking about it and Ifelt fine,” said Linck, who has onlyserved with the battalion for a fewmonths. “It felt as if I had fallen andhit my head, that’s it.”

The rest of his team did not knowhis status. They didn’t take chancesand followed their training, evacuat-ing him out of the area.

“When we picked him up, hegrabbed my hand and told me that

he was pretty nervous,” said 22-year-old Grisales, from Hartford,Conn. “All I could do was to try toreassure him that he would bealright, at the same time I was tryingto do the same for myself.”

Linck was transferred directlyfrom the battlefield to the nearesthospital where he was treated andreleased without even a stitch in hishead.

The issued helmet he worestopped the majority of the roundfrom penetrating. A small piece offragmentation from the roundpierced through the headbandinside of the helmet, causing a smalllaceration on his forehead.

“It was such a relief for us whenwe pulled up to the hospital and wefound out that he was okay,”Grisales said.

“I thank God that it happenedthe way that it did,” Hogen added.

Linck doesn’t discount divineintervention or luck, but said hetrusts his gear more now than ever.

“I know for sure that if it wasn’tfor that helmet, I wouldn’t be stand-ing here right now,” Linck said. “Itpays to wear all the gear the way it issupposed to be worn.”

“It is one thing to hear aboutwhat our gear is capable of, but thisjust makes it a reality,” Hogen said.“It did exactly what it was supposedto do.”

Linck’s since returned to dutywith a new outlook on life.

“It is kind of like a second lease oflife,” he said. “I want to make sure Ido everything right.”

Private first class Fred M. Linck was shot in the head and walked away from the inci-dent. The enemy round struck his Kevlar helmet, which saved his life by stopping thebullet from penetrating his head. A piece of fragmentation caused a small lacerationto the Marine’s forehead too small even for stitches. Linck is an infantryman with CCompany, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5.

Cpl. Brian Reimers


Lieutenant Col. Loren D. Barney (left) and Cpl Brandon L. Allomong display Allomong’s Corporal’sCourse completion certificates. Allomong is currently assigned to the Base Inspector’s Office.


WWORDORD TOTO PPASSASS

DoD employee facilitates donations to IraqLance Cpl. Brian J.

Holloran3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

AL ASAD, Iraq — Manyservice members deployedto a combat zone receivewounds and injuries thatrequire medical attentionfrom Al Asad Surgical.Unfortunately, the doctorsand nurses are forced to cutthe uniforms off of theseinjured men and women,thereby causing them tolose one of their very limit-ed pieces of clothing. Oneman wanted to help.

Larry Murray, a videostorage wide-area networktechnician with DataPathInc., wanted to ensure thatthe service members whoare tended to are comfort-able and are not left withnothing to wear.

"One evening I went tothe base theater to catch amovie and there were acouple of Marines sitting infront of me," said Murray."It was obvious that theyhad suffered combatwounds. One was oncrutches the other waslimping along painfully.

During the National

Anthem, these two wound-ed troops struggled to standat attention when they easi-ly could have just sat there.It dawned on me that Ishould go by the local hospi-tal to see if they needed any-thing."

The next day Murray anda co-worker, John Whitney,visited the hospital andstopped by the nurse's sta-tion. There they learned thatwhen wounded troops arebrought in, their uniformsare usually cut off.

"These injured men andwomen were coming in andlosing the only piece ofclothing they had withthem," said Murray, who isalso a technical sergeant forthe Georgia Air NationalGuard. "The hospital was inimmediate need of clothingsupplies. (Whitney) and Ialso noticed there was alarge television but no DVDplayer."

According to Murray, heand Whitney went to thepost exchange to purchaseclothing to stock the nearempty shelves at the hospi-tal.

"We purchased shirts andclothes to help hold the hos-

pital over until there was amore permanent solution,"said Murray. "(Whitney)spent over $150 out of hispocket that day just onmovies. He also bought a lotof clothes for the servicemembers, too."

According to Whitney,knowing that service mem-bers needed help touchedhim and made him want todonate.

"(Murray's) story of theMarines in the base theatermade me realize that I hadnot done enough to helpout," said Whitney, a satel-lite engineer assigned to 4thInfantry Division, CampLiberty, Iraq. "These Marinesare young. A lot of them arefar from home for the firsttime. They are here willing-ly, risking their lives to helpout. If this is not a worthycause, then what is?"

Murray then contactedfriends and family in theUnited States and askedthem for assistance. He alsoasked his guard unit to helpin stocking the shelves at AlAsad Surgical.

"We heard about thedemand through LeeCarson, one of our commer-

cial sales managers, who isin the Georgia Air NationalGuard with Larry Murray,"said Stephanie Plumecocq,advertising manager forGlock, a pistol manufactur-er. "After (Carson)approached our vice presi-dents with the idea todonate, I received an e-mailsaying to do whatever is nec-essary to help out and tosend whatever they need."

Glock donated T-shirtsand coffee mugs to make theservice members here morecomfortable. They also paidto mail 12 large boxes filledwith items collected fromthe employees of Glock andtheir families.

Murray did not just lookto high-end businesses forassistance. He also calledsome of his friends.

"(Murray) began to sendrequests and pleas to sup-port our forward deployedtroops and the base hospitalat Al Asad," said John M.Cowart, treasurer for U.S.Military VeteransMotorcycle Club, AtlantaChapter. "We were all com-pelled to help. We are allprior service, so we knowhow hard it is being away

from everything and beinginjured on top of it. We hadto help."

Other organizations werejust as enthusiastic todonate to the cause.

Murray was able to getmany different companiesand organizations togetherto help fulfill the needs of AlAsad Surgical. Organizationslike Woodstock MiddleSchool, Boy Scout troops,motorcycle dealerships andmotorcycle bars donatedsomething to assist the serv-ice members deployed tothe Al Anbar Province. Theitems received also varied.Wounded service membersreceived books, clothing,home baked goods, hygienegear, stuffed animals,movies, and other snacksand supplies.

Minutes before travelinghome after a 12-monthtour with DataPath, Murraysaid, "I'm not sure howmany people I have helped,but if it made one woundedperson smile for a minuteand let them know thatthey are appreciated, it wascertainly worth the effortsof all the people backhome."Larry Murray poses with a mailbox at Al Asad, Iraq.

Lance Cpl. Brian J. Holloran

Fine wine and music ‘revealed’ underthe stars at Bishop Museum

Tonight, 6 to 9 p.m.Bishop Museum, 1525 Bernice StreetTickets are $10 for general admission and

$5 for youth (4-12), Bishop Museum adultmembers and military personnel. BishopMuseum youth members and children under 4years are free. For more information or to pur-chase tickets, call 847-8290.

Guests at the inaugural evening, themed"Jazz & Wine," will be treated to the musicaltalents of Rocky Brown & Friends. TheHanohano Room headliner brings along GabeBaltazar, Abe Lagrimas, and Dean Taba toentertain visitors while they experience theMuseum after hours.

Family trio Manoa DNA will perform theiroriginal contemporary compositions, refur-bished and rejuvenated mix from the 70s, andenergetic Hawaiian classics. While enjoyingthese performances, event-goers will be able tostroll through the museums exhibits and gal-leries, including the Science Adventure Centerand the latest Castle Memorial Building exhib-it "Celebrating Chinese Women: Qing Dynastyto Modern Hawaii.”

Guests may also test their luck with a draw-ing for a brand-new, solid wood, semi-glossfinished, KoAlana 'ukulele courtesy ofKoAloha Ukuleles.

The Bishop Museum was founded in 1889by Charles Reed Bishop as a tribute to his wifePrincess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the lastdescendant of the royal Kamehameha dynasty.Located at 1525 Bernice Street, the Museum isopen daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is$14.95 for adults; $11.95 for youth 4-12 years,special rates for kama'aina, seniors and mili-tary; children under 4 years and BishopMuseum Members are free.

For information, call 847-3511 or visitwww.bishopmuseum.org.

10th Annual Twilight Tattoo ConcertMay 13, beginning at 4 p.m.FreeOn the grounds of Kuroda Field at Ft.

DeRussy, downtown Honolulu, the following

bands will perform their traditional day-end-ing concert: Army’s Tropic Lightning Band,Pacific Fleet Band, Air Force Band of thePacific, Marine Corps Forces Pacific Band, andHawaii’s 111th Army National Guard Band.

For more information call Charlie Ota, 545-4300 ext 320.

Fun fair at Aikahi ElementarySchool’s unique playground

May 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission. Scrips are sold inside.Everyone is invited. Aikahi Elementary

School is expecting between 2,000 and 3,000people to come out for this year's event.

Ten years ago, the families at the schoolcame together with a parent who was a promi-nent playground architect. In just a short time,the families and community of Kailua built aplayground of wood and tires. Today it is thelast wood and tire playground remaining in anOahu public school. The playground commit-tee will be selling commemorative mini fans.

Admission to the Fair is free. Items for salewill be available using scrip that can be pur-chased before and during the fair. Pre-sale scripwill be 5 for $1 and will be sold today from 2to 5 p.m. tomorrow scrip will sell 4 for $1.There will be plenty of ono food. On themenu: Steak and cheese sandwiches, pizza,Caesar salad, hot dogs, cotton candy, choco-late dipped strawberries, and shave ice.

This year we have Oahu 's only mobile Rockclimbing wall. In addition there will be anenormous inflatable obstacle course,

Petting zoo, pony rides, dunk tank, Glow-in-the-dark tag, Slammer hammer, spin art,media sale, plant sale, Hawaiian Snowballs andgas- powered remote control cars. Prizes will begiven at the many game booths. Marines from1st Battalion, 12th Marines, Kaneohe Bay, willbe assisting the school for this event.

14th Annual Hawaiian TelcomFilipino Fiesta and Parade

May 13, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. This years theme is “Celebrating the

Filipino Centennial — 100 years and beyond.”Beginning with the Centennial Charity

Walk and Street Parade from Fort DeRussy,down Kalakaua Avenue.

Food booths, dance performances and exhi-bitions in Kapiolani Park (near the bandstand).

For additional information, call CandiceKraughto at 551-8533.

Annual recognition luncheonMay 17, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Luncheon tickets available to the public.This is an opportunity to welcome home

our returning heroes and recognize militarycommunity services awardees at the HiltonHawaiian Village Hotel, 2005 Kalia Rd.Honolulu.

For information, call Charlie Ota at 545-4300, ext. 320.

Combined military band concert

May 20, beginning at 7 p.m.Free and open to the public.Hawaii Theater, 1130 Bethel, Honolulu.An opportunity to hear Hawaii’s top mili-

tary musicians in a rare concert featuringBroadway musicals, marches, classics andpops.

For more information, call Charlie Ota at545-4300, ext. 320.

Grand opening at Bishop Museum

June 11, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at BishopMuseum, 1525 Bernice Street.

Entry fee is $3 for kama'aina and militaryand free for Bishop Museum members andchildren under age 3. Bank of Hawaii cus-tomers and employees get free admission forup to 2 people when they show their Bank ofHawaii bankcard or statement

Bank of Hawaii Family Sunday celebratesthe opening of "Grossology: The (Impolite)Science of the Human Body" at BishopMuseum. Explore why your body producesthe mushy, oozy, crusty, scaly and stinky gunkit does at the opening of Grossology: The(Impolite) Science of the Human Body. The

day will also be filled with fun and excitingactivities, food booths, prize giveaways andcontests, special planetarium shows, and greatentertainment.

Kids of all ages can take a "Tour du Nose" toexplore nasal features, including how yoursnoot acts as an air filter, smell sensor andmucus producer; play the pinball game "GasAttack" by scoring off bumpers dressed up asfood items; or climb a large-scale replica ofhuman skin, and discover other mysteriousways your body's biology does what it needsto do to keep you healthy. Grossology is a col-laboration between Science World, AdvancedExhibits, and Grossology author SylviaBranzei.

"Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of theBody" is on display in the Castle MemorialBuilding at Bishop Museum from June 10through August 27.

For information, call 847-3511 or visitwww.bishopmuseum.org.

Shanghi Bristro Continues PopularCooking Classes Every Month: Sign upnow for May and June

Shanghai Bistro, Discovery Bay, contin-ues its popular once-a-month series ofChinese fusion cooking classes with ChefChih-Chieh Chang, with dates announced forMay and June. Upcoming classes will be thefollowing:

May 20 Learn to make Okinawan sweet potato bis-

cuits and prawns with lobster sauce. June 17 Chef Chang teaches the secrets of making

his award-winning fruit carvings and alu-minum foil decorations.

Cooking classes begin at 10 a.m. at therestaurant, 1778 Ala Moana. Registration is$35 per person, including the all-you-can-eatbrunch with everything from dim sum toPeking duck on it, with advance reservationsrequired.

Call 955-8668 to sign up.Validated parking is available in the

Discovery Bay Garage. Enter garage at rear ofbuilding.

LIFELines Research Staff

SOCNAV is the Servicemember’s OpportunityColleges degree program forthe Navy. SOCNAV consists ofcolleges that offer Associateand Bachelor's Degree pro-grams on or accessible to Navyinstallations worldwide. SOC-NAV colleges form networks inwhich each college acceptscredits from all the others.

SOCNAV guarantees thatyou and your adult familymembers can continue towardcompletion of your degreeseven though the Navy maytransfer you several times.There are also degrees availableby distance learning thatrequire no classroom residen-cy.

Navy/Maine Corps ReliefSociety:

Spouse Tuition AidProgram:

The Navy and Marine CorpsRelief Society offers STAP toyour spouse if you are onactive duty and stationed in anoverseas location. Your spousemay be a full or part-time stu-dent studying toward a voca-tional certificate or an under-graduate or graduate degree.

Amounts granted: *Undergraduate level maxi-

mum of $300 per semester and$1,500 per year.

*Graduate level maximumof $350 per semester and$1,750 per year.

To request an applicationform and information aboutdeadlines, contact one of thefollowing NMCRS offices:Guam, Guantanamo Bay,London, Naples, Okinawa,Roosevelt Roads, Rota,Sigonella, or Yokosuka .

Vice Admiral E.P. TraversScholarship and LoanProgram:

To apply to this program,you must be the spouse of anactive duty member or thedependent child of an activeor retired member of the Navyor Marine Corps. You mustalso be a full-time undergradu-ate student at an accreditedcollege or university.

*1000 grants are awardedeach academic year at $2,000each.

*Applicants are also evaluat-ed for an interest-free studentloan of up to $3000.

*The loan repayment beginswithin 30 days of award andmust be repaid by allotmentwithin 24 months.

*Application deadline isMarch 1 of each year.

*Late applications will notbe considered for the scholar-ship; however, they will beevaluated for a loan.

TodayLunchBaked ham Chili macaroniCandied sweet potatoesGrilled cheese sandwichFrench fried okraCauliflower au gratinBread pudding Peanut butter cookiesFruit pie

Hot dog specialty barHot Italian sausageGrilled Polish sausageGrilled frankfurtersChiliBaked knockwurst with sauerkraut

DinnerBaked stuffed pork chopsTurkey pot pieCalico cornSimmered peas and carrotsSteamed riceMashed potatoesSweet potato pieBread pudding Peanut butter cookiesFruit pie

SaturdayLunchCantonese spareribsBaked tuna and noodlesShrimp fried riceCorn on the cobCorn bread dressingPineapple upside down cake

Taco specialty barChili con carneTacosBurritosSpanish riceRefried beansMexican cornTaco shellsFlour tortillas

DinnerSwedish meatballsCaribbean chickenSteamed riceO’brien potatoesSimmered brussels sproutsSimmered summer squashPineapple upside down cakeFruit pie

SundayLunchPepper steakSouthern fried catfishRice pilafPotatoes au gratinGlazed carrotsSimmered black-eyed peasSugar cookiesFruit pie

Pasta specialty barThree variations of pastaMeat sauceAlfredo sauceGarlic breadPizza

DinnerRoast turkey

Beef pot pieMashed potatoesButtered egg noodlesSimmered broccoliSavory bread dressingSugar cookiesFruit pie

MondayDinner Baked lasagnaChicken parmesanSpaghetti noodlesMarinara sauceSimmered peas and carrotsPizza slicesGarlic breadMarble cake Fruit pie

TuesdayDinnerBarbeque beef cubesBaked turkey and noodlesSteamed riceCreole green beansSimmered cabbageGinger molasses cookiesSpice cake

WednesdayLunchMeat loafPork ham roastSteamed riceMashed potatoesFrench fried cauliflowerChocolate chip cookiesFruit pie

Pasta specialty bar Three variations of pastaMarinara sauceMeat sauceGarlic breadPizza

Dinner Beef brogulFresh baked cajun fishMashed potatoesRice pilafClub spinachChocolate chip cookiesFruit pie

ThursdayLunchSimmered corned beefHoney glazed Cornish hensParsley buttered potatoesFried cabbageEgg noodlesPeanut butter cake

Taco specialty barChili con carneTacosBurritosSpanish riceRefried beans

DinnerTurkey pot pieSweet & sour porkSteamed riceJefferson noodlesSimmered pinto beansChow Mein noodlesPeanut butter cake

HAWAII MARINE MAY 12, 2006 • B-5

MMARINEARINE

MMAKEPONOAKEPONOHAWAIIAN FOR

“MARINE BARGAINS”

Automobiles

1997 Toyota Corolla, four-door, well-maintained, very cleanand reliable $3,500, or best offer.Call 389-4583.

Pets

Free Dalmation mix, 2-years-old, to a good home. Call254-5006.

Miscellaneous

Glass tabletop dinning set,includes bakers rack and two barstools . Entire set $350, OBO. Call258-6790.

Air conditioner, wall to wallcarpet, 84 inch pleated drapes.Call 254-3868 for more informa-tion.

Stack washer and dryer,almost new. $600. OBO. Call 292-8138.

St. Anthony’s uniform,fabric, shower curtain, hose reel,coffee maker, Disney VHS videos,basketball rim with net and agame cube controller; all items$10 each. Call 262-8789.

Huge gray leather couch,$500. Ocean kayak, $350. Coffeetable (needs glass), $40. Call 262-8789.

Washer and dryer, one yearold, $300. Double bed, $200. Call389-4583.

Beautiful studio apart-ment, large private deck, privateenterance, hot tub, $1,300. Call239-5459.

Ads are accepted from active dutyand retired military personnel, their fam-ily members and MCB Hawaii civilservice employees.

For more information on how toplace an ad, contact the Hawaii Marineoffice at 257-8837.

OONN THETHE MMENUENUAATT AANDERSONNDERSON HHALLALL

Navy Family Education Programs

Patrons use the Base Library computers to research topics which they may be studying for their contin-uing education classes.

Photo Courtesy of MCCS Marketing


Iraqi recruits line up to join their ArmyStory and photos by

Cpl. Mark SixbeyRegimental Combat Team 5

FERRIS, Iraq — Dozens ofIraqi men waited outside anIraqi Police station here at thebreak of dawn to enlist and servetheir country, May 8.

Marines from I Company,3rd Battalion, 5th MarineRegiment, Regimental CombatTeam 5, provided logistical andsecurity support during an IraqiArmy recruiting drive. It wasoverseen by Iraqi policemen. Itwas part of a recruiting drive tobring Iraqis from the outskirts ofFallujah to the Iraqi Army. Asimilar drive held nearly twomonths ago inside Fallujahbrought in more than 800 men.

Lance Cpl. MichaelBetancourt, an infantrymanwith I Company, watched fromthe observation tower as therecruits lined up outside.

“The turnout looks prettydecent,” said 21-year-oldBetancourt, from Chicago.“There are quite a few recruitsout there.”

Marines remained on thefringes, for the most part. Thiswas an Iraqi-led effort betweenIraqi Army recruiting teams and

Iraqi police assisting in screen-ing.

“Our role pretty much is toprovide security for the IP’s asthey do the screening, then pro-vide transportation for the IArecruits,” said 2nd Lt. ChuckMiller, 1st Platoon commander,I Company.

The 29-year-old fromMcKinney, Texas, oversaw theevent as the new recruits linedup in groups of 20 before board-ing 7-ton trucks dispatched bythe battalion’s headquarters.

“We’re close to 70 right now,and should be close to a hun-dred by close of business thismorning,” Miller said after anhour of watching the recruits fileinto the compound one by one.

The Marines transported 95Iraqi Army recruits to the nearbytraining facility where they weresworn in to defend their coun-try.

Betancourt said the turnoutwas a good sign for the future ofIraq’s Army.

“It’s a good turnaround forthe city,” he said. “When weleave, they’ll have enough tokeep this place secure.”

Marines took heart in thewillingness of Iraqi men to stepforward and protect their neigh-

bors.“I’m pretty excited to see all

these young Iraqi men join theIraqi Army so they can improvetheir country,” said Staff Sgt.David Joseph Morisset Jr., pla-toon sergeant for 1st Platoon.“I’m proud of them.”

The 28-year-old fromPrinceton, Minn., said therecruits were ready to followorders without question as heushered them toward theirfuture.

“They stand in line, then Itell them to follow me and getin the vehicles, then once theyget in there, I have water forthem so they can stay hydrat-ed,” he said. “We’re pretty muchtaking care of them so I canshow them the Americans arehelping them out. It’s a goodgroup of civilians that are join-ing.”

When asked why they arejoining, two Iraqi recruits gavethe same response. It was similarto answers Marines themselvesmight give if asked about theirdecision to join the military.They explained they wanted toserve their country in hopes ofbuilding a peaceful Iraq.

“It’s a good idea,” said LanceCpl. Willie Burpl, a 22-year-oldinfantryman from Birmingham,Ala. “It gets the people involvedas far as doing something fortheir government and doingsomething for their country.”

The recruiting drive is takingplace at several locations acrossthe Al Anbar Province. Iraqi Army recruits line up and climb inside Marine Corps 7-ton trucks at Ferris, Iraq, May 8.

Iraqi Army recruits wait in line in Ferris, Iraq, May 8. A three-hourrecruiting drive at the Iraqi Police station in Ferris, south of Fallujah,attracted 95 Iraqi men, who Marines transported to the Iraqi Armytraining facility near Fallujah.

Staff Sgt. David Joseph Morisset Jr., from Princeton, Minn., a platoon sergeant for Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, watch-es over a group of Iraqi Army recruits at Ferris, Iraq, May 8.

Mounted gunners seeingclearer thanks new turrets

Gunnery Sgt. Mark Oliva1st Marine Division

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq — Duty inthe turret of Regimental Combat Team 5’s7-ton trucks, just got clearer with new bal-listic glass and steel encased firing posi-tions.

The new turrets, called Marine CorpsArmored Turret Systems, are beinginstalled on 7-ton trucks, the first in anupgrade to give gunners greater visibilityand beefed-up protection for convoy oper-ations.

“The advantage of these turrets is theprotection it provides the gunner,” saidMaster Sgt. Adam Lyttle, the 42-year-oldMotor Transport chief for the regiment.“The most noticeable change is the ballis-tic glass. They also have higher turrets andthey traverse a lot easier.”

Ballistic shields replaced steel plates infront of the gunner’s position and sideballistic glass allows Marines to scan fromside to side without having to exposethemselves to fire. It’s an important fea-ture. Until now, Marines had to crouchdown behind their guns.

“The gunner can stay higher on theguns now,” Lyttle explained. “Their fieldof view is a whole lot better. The gunnerplays a major part on all convoys.”

Higher blast protection and windowsthat will deflect gunfire and shrapnel nowallows gunners to perform duties with agreater degree of confidence. Marinesaren’t just gripping 50-caliber machineguns behind the ballistic shields. They’reon the lookout for improvised explosivedevices – or roadside bombs.

“I feel a lot safer,” said Cpl. Jose M.Ramirez, a 22-year-old from Lemoore,Calif., assigned to RCT-5’s motor transportplatoon. “Before I was afraid of standingup. Now, there’s no fear to get up andpeek at something suspicious.”

Ramirez is one of the few gunners inthe regiment’s motor transport platoonwho has already conducted several mis-sions, riding in the new turret. He said it

has a lot more room, space to keep his rifleand other tools handy and best of all, bet-ter protection.

“It’s a blessing from the gods to getthese here,” Ramirez said. “They’re a lotbetter. This is a big improvement.Everybody likes these.”

Lyttle said the turrets are being addedas fast as they arrive in theater, with helpfrom 1st Marine Logistics Group’s,Combat Logistics Battalion-5. It’s not justthe regimental headquarters getting thenew turrets. Each battalion is getting out-fitted as well.

“The hope is before the month is out,we’ll have new turrets on every truck,”Lyttle said.

Lance Cpl. Trevor A Chapman, a 20-year-old from Norwich, Conn., has alsoridden a couple of missions in the newturret and said Marines have a lot inwhich to look forward.

“I figured it would be good with havingthe windows on each side,” saidChapman, assigned to RCT-5 MotorTransport Platoon. “I felt a lot safer. Thearmor goes all the way around.”

Chapman explained the old turrets hadgaps that left him feeling exposed to haz-ards. Now, he’s completely encased in aturret system that allows him to see moreand move quicker.

“It’s a lot easier to use,” Chapmanexplained. “You don’t have to swivel as farbecause of the windows. That makes thegunner’s job easier because he can reactfaster.”

Lyttle witnessed the change the MarineCorps has made over the past several yearswith armoring. Initially, gunners wereexposed with nothing protecting them buthelmets and flak vests. Then barrel-styleturrets were installed and now, the angularturret with ballistic glass has taken forceprotection to a new level.

“The Marines are pretty pleased,” hesaid. “They were excited about gettingthem. The Marines are eager to ride in any-thing, but you see these big improvements… it built their confidence up, big time.”

Gunnery Sgt. Mark Oliva

Lance Cpl. Trevor A. Chapman, a 20-year-old from Norwich, Conn, and Lance Cpl. Antonio Mendoza, a 20-year-oldfrom Los Angeles, mount a M-2 .50-caliber machine gun in the new Marine Corps Armored Turret System thatRegimental Combat Team 5 is installing on their 7-ton trucks. The new armor increases protection and allows forgreater visibility with ballistic glass.

SS PORPORTSTSHAWAII MARINE C SECTION MAY 12, 2006

HawaiiMMARINEARINE

Lance Cpl. Ryan TrevinoCombat Correspondent

Sgt. Kristin M. Taft, fiscalchief, base property,Headquarters Battalion, isscheduled to officially receivethe award during a ceremony atthe Marine Corps Sports Hall ofFame in Quantico, Va., July 28.

Taft, who recently won theaward for K-Bay’s FemaleAthlete of the Year for 2005,said she was taken aback whenshe heard the news.

“I was shocked,” said Taft.“When I was told of theannouncement, I was kind ofnonchalant about it because, Ithought they were referring tothe award that I received herefor the 2005 female athlete ofthe year for Marine Corps BaseHawaii. It took a minute to real-ize that it was for the entireMarine Corps.”

She said, after the initialshock wore off, she felt veryhonored to receive this award.

“I have pretty much accom-plished everything I wanted todo before I got out,” said Taft,

who has played four seasons asa pitcher for the All-MarineSoftball Team. She has beennamed K-Bay’s top female ath-lete two years in a row.

The 24-year old said she was-n’t even aware that her resumehad been submitted toHeadquarters Marine Corps forthe competition.

“I thought it was for the baseonly,” said Taft. “I just love thegame. It’s my passion. I don’tplay to get awarded or recog-nized, it’s just something I loveto do – play ball.”

With her current enlistmentcoming to an end, Taft is com-ing up on her last season withthe All-Marine team, which shesaid should be a productiveone.

“It looks like we are going tohave the largest turnout ofwomen at camp this year fortryouts,” said the All-Marineveteran. “That is definitelywhat is needed to be in medalcontention at the Armed ForcesChampionships. “The more thewomen, the better the competi-tion and talent.”

The mother of a two year-oldson, Raymond Bell III, attrib-utes a lot of her success in ath-letics to support from her com-mand.

“This command here sup-ports all sports activities andhighly encourages Marines toget involved,” said Taft. “Thiscommand is honestly unlikeothers I have been too in whichsporting events are not reallyrecognized and encouraged.”

Headquarters BattalionCommanding Officer, Lt. Col.James Connelly offered thesewords to congratulate Taft forher achievement.

“Her selection is indicative ofthe hard work, dedication andcommitment that she gives notonly as an athlete, but moreimportantly as an NCO (noncommissioned officer) andleader of Marines,” he said.

Mark Husted, Taft’s All-Marine coach said Taft displaysall the characteristics of a leader,while playing on the team.

“She is a great team player,”said Husted. “She talks with allthe other girls all the time tokeep morale up. She is an over-all outstanding athlete that willdo anything to help the teamwin.”

K-Bay Marine namedCorps’ top female athlete

Lance Cpl. Edward C. deBree

Julia Barnhouse dances to the theme song from the movie "Titanic" during a dress rehearsal at thegymnastics center, here, May 6, for a show held at Windward Community College, May 7. Thedancers practiced their routines for three months before the show.

‘Titanic’ rehearsal

Cpl. Athanasios Genos2nd Marine Division

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE,N.C. – The sun came up and the dew was stillon the grass as the Marines were setting upfor a full day of events involving softballgames, a live band, and other events.

The entire 10th Marine Regiment cametogether during a maintenance stand downfor the annual King of Battle Big SticksSoftball Tournament – a day of softball, festiv-ities and fun for the Marines and their fami-lies.

“We just came back from training up atFort Bragg conducting Operation RollingThunder, and this was a great thing for all theguys out here,” said Chief Warrant Officer-4William Dagenhart, who put the entire eventtogether with the help of Staff Sgt. Richard A.Mattice. “Without him, this entire day and

events would have been a bust.”The day started out with 14 different soft-

ball teams in a single elimination tourna-ment. There were roughly 1,930 Marinesfrom the regiment who were gathered here towatch the games and take part in their ownside games of soccer and football.

Everyone broke for lunch and enjoyedmusic from a live band after the first half ofgames. A few waitresses from a local restau-rant, along with other local sponsors, servedlunch and beverages to the Marines and allwho were in attendance for the day’s events.

“We had a great day today here Marines,let me hear an OOHRAH!” said Lt. Col.Terrance P. Brennan, executive officer of 10thMarine Regiment.

Brennan awarded the winning team,whose average age was 19, plaques for com-ing in first place during this year’s annualKing of Battle Big Sticks Tournament.

Softball tournament boosts morale

Lance Cpl. John J. ParryMarine Barracks 8th & I

MARINE BARRACKS WASHINGTON,Washington D.C. — “The Commandant’s Own,”the United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, per-formed the national anthem before the crowdattending NASCAR’s Crown Royal 400 at RichmondInternational Speedway, May 6.

The event began with an introduction of thedrivers, prayer and the “Pledge of Allegiance” before

the national anthem, which the NASCAR Web sitecalled, “The best rendition of the ‘Star SpangledBanner’ played at a NASCAR event in quite sometime.”

“It’s always a rush to play at these events, becauseover one hundred thousand people have their eyeson your performance,” said Staff Sgt. Gregory S.Holder, baritone bugler for the Drum & BugleCorps. “Being the musical ambassadors of the com-mandant makes you always want to play your bestand give a good impression of the Marine Corps.”

Members of “TheCommandant's Own” pose withcast members from DiscoveryChannel's "Orange CountyChoppers." Pictured from leftare: Paul Teutul Jr.; Sgt Scott A.Pierce, soprano bugler; MichaelTeutul; Sgt. James L. Strand,soprano bugler; Paul Teutul Sr.;Sgt. William R. Rulapaugh,snare drummer; and Sgt. JosephM. Stewart, soprano bugler.

Lance Cpl. John J. Parry

‘The Commandant's Own’performs at NASCAR race

Cpl. Athanasios Genos

A player swings at an incoming pitch durith the annual King of Battle Big Sticks Softball Tournament.

Photos Courtesy Sgt. Kristin Taft

Sergeant Kristin Taft was recognized as the Top Female Athlete omthe Marine Corps and is a pitcher for the All-Marine Softball Team.

SaturdaySM&SP Dodgeball Tournament —

Head to the Semper Fit Center Saturday forthe SM&SP Dodgeball Tournament. Thisdouble-elimination match is open to teamsof six and costs $10 per team. The event isopen primarily to E5 and below, however,E6 and above are allowed if invited. Call254-7593 to register.

The Hawaiian Trail and MountainClub — Makua Valley — Hike to cultur-ally important Hawaiian sites and geologi-cal features. Call Fred Dodge for moreinformation at 696-4677.

Additional upcoming hikes in May willbe to Kaipapau Gulch and Koko HeadCrater.

Monday

Intramural Soccer Season Begins —Games will be played at 6:30, 7:45 and 9p.m. Call 254-7591 for more information.

May 20

MAG-24 Triathlon — Run, bike orswim to the 10th Annual MAG-24 Triathlon,May 20, aboard MCB Hawaii. The eventbegins at 7:30 a.m. at the Hangar 101.Register and pay online at www.mcc-shawaii.com or call 254-7590.

May 25

101 Days of Summer Fun Run/Walk— Head to "The Lodge" (Temporary LodgingFacility) at 8 a.m. for the kickoff event forthe 101 Days of Summer. This campaignpromotes a drug-free environment andevents where participants earn points foreach unit. The unit with the most points atthe end of summer will receive prize. Call254-7636 for more information.

OngoingPaintball Hawaii — Nestled behind

the Lemon Lot here is Paintball Hawaii.Cost is $25 per person and includes one airrefill, equipment and the field fee. The fieldis open on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Call 265-4283 for Friday appointments.

Personal Trainers Available atSemper Fit — For those looking to getinto a tailored exercise regiment, or forthose just looking for some good advice onweight management and weight control,Semper Fit Center offers free personal train-ing consultation.

Call Semper Fit Center at 257-7597 toschedule an appointment.

Semper Fit Center offers array ofaerobics — The MCCS Semper Fit Centerannounces a new and expanded aerobicsprogram. These new classes now beingoffered include a variety of workouts.

Call 254-7597 for more information onthe various classes now offered.

.

BriefsSubmit items for the sports briefs section

via e-mail to [email protected] orcall 257-8837.

Sports BriefsC-2 • MAY 12, 2006 HAWAII MARINE

Lance Cpl. Edward C. deBreeCombat Correspondent

Combat Service Support Group 3 suf-fered a defeat to 1st Battalion, 12thMarine Regiment’s Steel Reign, 7-5, in anintramural softball game, May 5.

“We’re excited to play this game,” saidCSSG-3 coach, Joseph P. Kirk. “This isonly our third game of the season andwe’re just looking to have a good timeplaying.”

The game started off in Steel Reign’sfavor as batters made hit after hit duringthe top of the first inning. As SteelReign’s hitting assault began, KevinEnlow made his way toward home plateto score the first point against the oppos-ing team.

“We did a lot of practicing on thebasics of the game,” said James Whitley,assistant coach, Steel Reign. “What wewanted to practice on is hitting base runsand not trying to hit it toward the fencebecause base runs are the ones that allowthe other hitters to run in to score. Fencehits only give the other team a chance tocatch it and get us out.”

By the end of the first inning, 1/12 wasup 3-0 on the score board, a sign forCSSG-3 to turn up the defense in order tostay in the game, something they woulddo as the game went on.

Each time Steel Reign came up to bat,CSSG-3 would make miraculous dives andcatches to put a halt to the onslaught ofscores put against them. As 1/12 crushedthe ball into right field, Aaron Simpsonwas there to bring the ball home into hisglove.

In the fifth inning, Kirk made an aston-ishing dive to catch the ball to get WesleyFerguson out, leaving the opposing teamin disbelief that he actually caught theball, ending the inning.

In the top of the last inning, CSSG-3began their come back in order to savethe game, with Kirk smacking the balldeep into left field to bring home tworunners, but it was to no avail as the gameended, 7-5, leaving 1/12 with a sigh ofrelief to bring home a win.

“We played a good game consideringwe only had nine players in the game,”said Kirk. “We had to scrape together ateam because we’re missing a lot of play-ers that are gone on the big island partic-ipating in (Hawaii Combined ArmsExercise). We actually came back in thelast inning to only lose by two scores. Wejust need to practice on better defenseand learn to play the game of softball.”

Whitley agreed that CSSG-3 played agood game for their number of players.

“For what they had to work with, theymade it a good game,” said the 38-year-old Healdsburg, Calif. native. “It was justa fun game and it was nice. It was a lotmore relaxed and not stressed than othergames, which made everybody here havea good time. We played really well todaybecause of that. Now we need to just prac-tice for the other games because they maynot be like this one we played today.”

Photos by Lance Cpl. Edward C. deBree

Steel Reigns' Paul Dillon catches the ball to force Sam Floyd, Combat Service Support Group-3, out atfirst base in an intramural softball game May 5. Steel Reign defeated CSSG-3 in a 7-5 win.

Steel Reign edges out CSSG-3

Cpl. Sara A. CarterCombat Correspondent

Get the swimsuits and running shoes ready –it’s time for the Marine Aircraft Group 24, 10thannual triathlon.

The triathlon, scheduled for May 20, will kick-off at 7:30 a.m. The challenge begins with a 500-meter swim followed by an 11.1-mile bike rideand concludes with a 5K run.

Participants in the race can check in as early as5:30 a.m. at the Hangar 101 pad, across from theBase Marina.

“Having the triathlon on base gives the civil-ians the opportunity to attend an event withgreat scenery and a safe course,” said StacyBarkdull, Varsity Sports Coordinator. “It alsoencourages the military participant to take part inan event that they might not otherwise have theopportunity to out on town. Our prices are verycompetitive.

“It’s a fun, safe event, and you get a good work-out, too,” said Barkdull.

Prizes, including a free Felt Racing Bike, draw-ings for gift certificates and more will be handedout at the end of the race.

The race is open to the public. Registration forthe race is $26 for military, $32 for civilians, $70for relays. After Friday there will be $3 late feecharged to individuals and $9 for relays.

Individuals who are interested can registernow, online, at www.mccshawaii.com/cgfit.htm,or at the Semper Fit Center front desk.

“I hope to see lots of Marines and Sailors outthere enjoying this race,” said Barkdull. “MAG-24and MALS-24 have done a great job coordinatingthe event with me and I look forward to race day.”

Because the race will take place on base, theMokapu gate (the back gate to the base) will beclosed until the conclusion of the race, 9:30 a.m.Individuals trying to access the base are advised touse the front gate.

MAG-24 hosts 10th annual triathlon

Combat Service Support Group-3's Aaron Simpson catches theball headed into the outfield,May 5. CSSG-3 suffered a defeatagainst Steel Reign in an intra-mural softball game here.

Photo Courtesy of KC Humphries

Eric Dempsky leads a pack of dripping runners after they complete the first stage of the MAG-24 SprintTriathlon.

HAWAII MARINE MAY 12, 2006 • C-3

LIFELines Research Staff

Suicide is an intentional actresulting in one’s own death.Suicidal behaviors encompassa broad range of acts, includ-ing suicidal attempts, ges-tures, threats, and suicidalthoughts. Suicide attempts arebehaviors that, if leftunchecked, could result indeath. Suicide gestures aredefined as behavior thatwould not result in death ifleft unattended.

The lack of lethality doesnot undercut the seriousnessof suicidal gestures. Lethalityof a behavior does not neces-sarily coincide with whetheror not the person intends toend his or her life. A suicidalperson does not always under-stand what is lethal and whatis not. For instance, in thecase of overdoses, he or shedoes not always know whatdosage will result in death.

The only solution for firstresponders is to take all suici-dal attempts, gestures, andthreats seriously.

The biggest reason peoplethreaten suicide or communi-cate to others they have beenthinking about suicide – andthe great majority does beforeattempting or completing sui-cide – is to let others knowthey are in pain or great psy-chological distress. It is theirway to let that be known thatthey need help. We cannotpredict whether they mightkill, or attempt to kill, them-selves once they have thethought of suicide. However,we can be sure that if weignore such communications,we increase the chances thatsomeone in pain will feel evenworse – unnoticed, uncaredfor, unheard – and have evenmore reason to want to endthat pain by suicide.

Pain felt by someone who

may be suicidal often is relat-ed to unmet needs. We allhave needs to be loved, to bein control, to avoid shame.Suicidal thoughts can bebrought on by an event orseries of events best character-ized as a loss or threatenedloss; e.g., a relationshipbreakup, a failure, a humilia-tion. Yet the fact remains thatwe all have failed relation-ships and failures, so it isimportant to keep in mindthat such simple explanationsare inadequate to account forthe complicated nature ofhuman behavior – especiallywhen someone is in a person-al crisis.

Quite often, the psycholog-ical pain a suicidal personfeels is intensified by anunderlying mental healthproblem, such as depressionor anxiety. Sometimes, per-sons in such despair try tocope with their pain by turn-

ing to alcohol or drugs todeaden the emotional pain.Of course, the consequence ofthis is only to make theirproblems, and pain, worse.But there is no typical descrip-tion of someone who is suici-dal. Because suicide is such acomplex behavior, it requiresa trained professional tounderstand, evaluate, andeffectively treat what is likelyto be a serious mental healthproblem. For this reason, thebasic message of this suicideprevention training is toobserve, identify, and refer forhelp.

Suicide prevention:Observe, identify, help

A common ingredient amongpersons who are contemplating

suicide is hopelessness," saidDr. Beth Davis, Marine &

Family Services CounselingCenter, family counselor. "Theyneed to realize that suicide is apermanent solution to a tempo-

rary problem."

Lance Cpl. Cristin K. Bartter

Pfc. Edward C. deBree

Sailors assigned to 21st Dental Company here are about to cross the finish line after completing a four-mile course for the 8th Annual Turkey Trot.

Cmdr. Lissa Ann Wohltmann, USN REDCOM South

To easily cut health care costs,simply put a stop to preventable dis-eases. This is the basic sentiment ofmany doctors and health organiza-tions.

One simple way is to take advicefrom the America On The Moveplan.

“We are trying to get people tointegrate a moderate amount ofphysical activity in their day,” saidWendy Artman, an America On TheMove representative. “Everybodycan make a small step.”

America On the Move is a nation-al initiative designed to help all

Americans maintain or improvehealth through small steps. Noweighing your food, counting calo-ries, calculating the carbohydratesin a tic-tac or running marathons.The message is uncomplicated:move more, eat less. Yet, Americanculture doesn’t seem to supportactive lifestyles.

“A lot of physical activity hasbeen engineered out of our lives,”said Philip Haberstro, president ofthe National Association of Healthand Fitness. “For example, childrenwho live three blocks from schooldon’t walk or ride a bicycle, insteadthey are driven. An employee whosits in front of a computer all day isconsidered efficient.

“Also, the message is to eat nutri-tiously and judiciously. Accordingto ‘ScienceDaily.’” “The hearts ofpeople who follow a low-calorie, yetnutritionally balanced diet resemblethose of younger people.”

A great number of restaurants sellan enormous amount of unhealthyfare, while the healthiest eatingapproach – plant-based nutrition –is treated as an afterthought.

Dr. Stephen Barrett, notoriouslyknown for debunking myths in themedical world, said that generallypeople don't need to purchaseexpensive nutritional supplements.

“Balanced diet provides the nutri-ents most people need,” he wrote inhis report Twenty-Five Ways to Spot

Quacks and Vitamin Pushers. “Theaverage American – stressed or not –is not in danger of vitamin deficien-cy.”

Buying all these excess vitaminsand nutrients can cost big bucks.Barrett urges people to beware whenothers try their scare tactics. Theaverage person adhering to U.S.Dietary Guidelines is in no dangerof vitamin deficiency. If someone istreating you and selling you supple-ments, it’s a good sign that this isnot the most reputable individualwith whom to trust your health.

You also can stretch your health-care dollar by purchasing genericdrugs, getting your medicationsfrom mail-order pharmacies – if pos-

sible – having your child vaccinatedand avoiding emergency rooms.Also, get the most from your insur-ance plan by checking on every-thing on your bill as well as ensur-ing your deductible is correct.

If you do become ill, however,learn everything you can about yourcondition. This will save you timeand frustration when dealing withthe proverbial runaround fromhealth care providers.

The best and most efficient wayto save on health care costs isthrough the Navy’s PMS –Preventive Maintenance System onyour body.

A healthier body means a health-ier wallet.

Activity, nutrition are key to maintaining health

C-4 • MAY 12, 2006 HAWAII MARINE

Michelle NortonTriWest Healthcare Alliance

TRICARE beneficiaries withdiabetes have a new, conven-ient support tool at their fin-gertips.

TriWest Healthcare Alliancehas launched a new phone-insupport group forum inresponse to suggestions fromTRICARE beneficiaries whospotted the need for diabetessupport.

“People who have had dia-betes for a long time haveexpressed a need for a forum

where they can discuss theirfeelings about having dia-betes,” said Kathi Sobera,director of TriWest’sPopulation HealthImprovement department.“This program is free to eligi-ble beneficiaries under the ageof 65, regardless of their bene-fit plan or other services theymay be receiving.”

The diabetes support groupis open to beneficiaries andfamily members. Up to 15 peo-ple can participate per session.To enroll, call toll-free to 1-888-259-9378 and ask for theDiabetes Forum. The forums

are held at 10 a.m. on the firstThursday of the month and at4 p.m. on the third Thursday(times are Mountain Time).

The program encouragesparticipants to speak openlyand honestly about their expe-riences with diabetes and isfacilitated by its developer,Jackie Magyar, a dietitian and acertified diabetes educator.

“This program provides asafe environment for benefici-aries with diabetes to sharehow their disease affects theirlives and share experienceswith others going through thesame thing,” Magyar said.

Future plans for this pro-gram include adding guestspeakers to address specificquestions and providing moresessions throughout themonth.

Diabetes Warning SignsThe symptoms of type 1

diabetes may include: – Increased thirst. – Increased hunger (espe-

cially after eating). – Dry mouth. – Frequent urination. – Unexplained weight loss

(even though you are eatingand feel hungry).

– Fatigue (weak, tired feel-ing).

– Blurred vision. – Headaches. – Loss of consciousness

(rare).Type 2 diabetes is usually

not diagnosed until complica-tions have occurred. Mostoften, there are no symptomsor a very gradual developmentof the above symptoms. Infact, about a third of all peoplewho have type 2 diabetes don'tknow they have it. Whenhyperglycemia (high bloodsugar) occurs, the symptomscan be the same as those listed

above.Other symptoms of type 2

diabetes may include: – Slow-healing sores or cuts. – Itching of the skin (usual-

ly around the vaginal or groinarea).

– Frequent yeast infections. – Recent weight gain. – Velvety dark skin changes

of the neck, armpit and groin,called acanthosis nigricans.

– Numbness and tingling ofthe hands and feet.

– Decreased vision. – Impotency.Visit www.triwest.com for

more information.

Military rugby team kicks off seasonLance Cpl. Roger L. Nelson


A military rugby team isstarting up and is looking for afew good men to help fill in theslots before the first game inJuly, according to Lt. Cmdr.Gary T. Ambrose, an actionofficer stationed at Camp H.M.Smith.

“We currently has 26 mem-bers from all services, but most-ly from Camp Smith andMarine Corps Base Hawaii,Kaneohe,” said Ambrose.

“Since we are in our build-ing phase we have only playedone team thus far – the HawaiiHarlequins – who belong to theHawaii Rugby Union which weare considering joining in thefall.”

According to Ambrose thegoal is to have an all-serviceteam that will spur other mili-tary teams to organize.

“As the sole military team inHawaii, we will play both civil-ian teams on island and thosewho pass through for tourna-ments,” said Ambrose. “Wewant to be able to host match-es for any military team thatpass through the area.”

Ambrose said, matches havealready been scheduled withAustralians who will be inHawaii for RIMPAC this sum-mer.

The rugby season will beyear-round, but the HawaiiUnion has two seasons in thefall and spring, not includingtournament dates.

“The majority of the gameswill be held at Bordelon Field atCamp Smith,” said Ambrose.“We are going to try and hold afew games at some of the K-Bayfields. We hope the numberswill increase, and we can holdpractice once a week at MCBH,though. We now hold practiceson Mondays and Wednesdays

at 4 p.m. and Fridays at 12p.m.”

The schedule for the seasonsis very flexible and is only com-mitted to the Military Seven’sTournament being held at Fort

Lewis, Washington, July 4, saidAmbrose.

“Our goal this year is to getin about eight to 10 matches,”said Ambrose. “We want allmilitary personnel to come

out, male or female. The prac-tices involve some fairly lightcontact and, of course, thegames have an intense level ofcontact.”

Ambrose, a Pittsburgh, Pa.,

native, said he finds most peo-ple who play the sport arehooked after the first game.

“Simply put, it is the bestsport in the world,” saidAmbrose. “I know that’s a bold

statement, but unless you’veplayed, you can not disagree.”

For more information aboutthe rugby team contact Lt.Cmdr. Gary Ambrose at 477-9909.


Brian Ettrich passes the ball to a team member during a rugby game at Camp H.M. Smith. The rugby season will start in July, and the team is looking for eligible players.

Beneficiaries Dialed in for Diabetes Support

HAWAII MARINE MAY 12, 2006 • C-5

LIFElines Research Staff

Save on Your BPOne of the most common

errors made by insurancecompanies is miscalculationof the family deductible. Forexample, your plan may havea deductible of $200 per per-son and $400 per family. Butunless the company adds upall of your family's bills, eachof you might still be payingindividual deductibles eventhough the $400 familyrequirement has already beenmet.

A similar error can occur ifthe claims office neglects tocalculate your annual totalout-of-pocket limit. Once youhave paid this amount, gener-ally between $1,000 and$2,000, the insurance compa-ny pays 100 percent of allother costs for the remainderof the year. So be sure to keepa careful tally of individual aswell as total family payments.

Save On Your HospitalBill

If you need sur-gery, ask your doc-tor if it can beperformed on anoutpatient basisor on the day youare admitted tothe hospital. Ifnot, ask if youcan scheduleyour surgeryearly in theweek to avoidspending theweekend inthe hospital.

Have allthe necessarypre-op tests donebefore you'readmitted to save

at least a day or two of hospi-tal charges.

Keep a LogTry to keep a daily record

of the services, medicationsand other supplies youreceive. You can find formsfor logging tests and medica-tion in Take This Book to theHospital With You, from ThePeople's Medical Society.

When you get your bill,check that you are not beingcharged for procedures youdidn't have or items you did-n't use. If you get a bill withjust summary charges, ask thehospital for a detailed break-down of your stay.

To make sure the chargesare correct, start with theobvious: The room rate, num-ber of days, major procedures,operating room, recoveryroom, and any other chargesthat pertain. Then, comparethe other charges against yourrecords. It might take sometime, but itcould saveyou money.

Save On Your DoctorsFees

If your health insurancecovers 80 percent of doctors'fees, that means your costsare 80 percent covered.Right? Not necessarily!

Only 80 percent of feesthe insurance company con-siders to be reasonable andcustomary are covered.What happens if your doc-tor charges $4,000 for a pro-cedure your insurance com-pany thinks should cost$3,500? Your insurer willonly pay 80 percent of the$3,500, or $2,800. Thatleaves you with $1,200 topay! Find out ahead of timehow much your insurancecompany will pay for a pro-cedure and tell your doctoryou want to make sure his orher fee is covered by yourinsurance. Many physicianswill agree not to chargemore than that.

Money-Smart HealthCare Choices

Don't repeat medical testsneedlessly. If you changephysicians or dentists, haveyour new doctor get copiesof your records.

Buy generic drugs, bothover-the-counter and pre-scription, and shop aroundfor the best price. Genericsare usually a lot cheaperthan name-brand medica-tions and almost always assafe and effective. Ask yourdoctor to prescribe genericswhen they're available.

Consider buying prescrip-tion drugs from mail-orderpharmacies. Mail-orderfirms often charge less thanyour local druggist. Onecaveat: They can't fill pre-scriptions as quickly. Butthey are perfect for patientswho take medication forlong-term conditions, suchas high blood pressure orheart disease. Ask your per-sonnel department if yourcompany has a mail-order

program or a mail-orderpharmacy.

Avoid emergency roomsexcept in true emergencies.Show up at an emergencyroom at midnight with aproblem that can wait untilmorning and you lose twice:You pay top dollar, and youwait for hours while the realemergencies are taken careof. Try your doctor or a 24-hour urgent-care center.

Get your children vacci-nated, and make sure youare protected too. Althoughinsurance may not covertheir costs, immunizationsare among the biggest bar-gains in medicine. Keeprecords and get boosterswhen needed.

Food for Thought

Here's what you'd paytoday for a sampling ofitems if grocery prices hadincreased at the same rate ashealthcare costs since the1930s:

Learn how to stretch your health

Jenny Sokol LIFELines

The job of parentingrequires dealing with someyucky stuff. First comes spit-upand poop, then worms andmud. When illness strikes, par-ents suction little noses andwipe up vomit. But even thetoughest parent can besqueamish when faced withhead lice.

Yes, the thought of insectsfeasting on your preciouschild's head is utterly disgust-ing. Just looking at the littlebuggers is repulsive. Pull your-self together – your child iscounting on you to defeatthese squirming devils.

Millions of children in theUnited States become infestedwith head lice each year.Although adults can get lice,they seem to prefer the headsof children who are betweenthe ages of 3 and 12. Lice tendto prefer long, fine, straighthair.

Lice are six-legged insectsthe size of a grain of rice. Aftersettling on the perfect human– they don't like animals –head, lice attach themselves tothe scalp using six hooksaround their mouths. Thentwo tubes pierce the scalp andthe lice gorge themselves onblood.

Female lice lay up to 10eggs, called nits, a day. Nits arelaid on the scalp, at the base ofthe hair shaft and hatch inabout a week. In another shortweek, these baby lice becomeadults, ready to lay their owneggs.

The fact that your child hashead lice has nothing to dowith cleanliness. And don't fret— it does not reflect on yourparenting ability. Head lice arehighly contagious. They arespread through clothing, bicy-cle helmets, hairbrushes, pil-lows, headphones, bedding,toilets, and hair accessories.

A nurse from the TRICARENurse Advice Line said that themain symptom of head lice issevere itching. Red, irritatedskin above the ears or the backof the neck may be visible.Although some kids show nosigns of lice, most respondwith intense itching. The keyto treatment is doing it rightaway and completing follow-up treatment at the intervalrecommended. Shampoos andlotions are available over thecounter and by prescription.Many, like the Rid products,can be purchased online.Shampoos will not remove allof the lice and nits, so be sureto pick the remaining ones outwith a lice comb or tweezers.

When using shampoo, do itover the sink and not in thetub, so as not to get chemicalson your child's body. Do notuse it on children with asthma,breathing difficulties oryounger than 2.

Wrapping hair with a towelwith a solution of equal partsof water and white vinegar willhelp to loosen remaining nits.Keep the towel on for 30 to 60minutes, and then comb itwith the lice comb that comeswith most lice shampoos.

All sheets, brushes, bedding,hats, helmets, and stuffed ani-mals should be washed in hotwater. Vacuum furniture, carseats, and chairs.

“Be sure to remove the vac-uum bag,” added the TRICAREnurse.

Finally, to keep the crittersfrom infiltrating the wholebase, keep your child homefrom school at least until thefirst treatment is complete. Ifnecessary, print out and sendan outbreak notification to theschool.

Dealingwith lice

MHawaii ARINE

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