Ready - Reliable - Responsive

Combat Logistics Battalion - 31

V O L U M E 3 , I S S U E 1 M A Y 2 0 1 2

Commanders Corner
Marines, Sailors, and Families of CLB-31,
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Sergeant Major
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Chaplainss CorFamily Readiness Officer Supply Plt Maintenance Plt Spring Patrol NEO Comrel Photos Platoon Updates Spring Patrol Field Meet Photos

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Awards and Promotions

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Events Typhoon Readiness

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As I write this note and realize that it will be the last one I write, I cannot help but look back on the past two years with great fondness. I remember two years ago becoming a part of a unit that is known as one of the premier forces in readiness in the Marine Corps. As a part of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, CLB-31 is one of the only units in the entire Marine Corps (or world for that matter) that is continuously operational 365 days-ayear. It is a unit that is tracked daily by not only our national leadership, but organizations around the world. While I was told that CLB-31 was unique and amazing in so many ways, I only now understand how true that really is. I have had the privilege to work alongside some of the best Marines and Sailors in the world who have made a difference in the Pacific theater of operations; who have made a difference in the lives of individuals in several foreign nations; who have made a difference to the Marine Corps as a whole. In the past two years, CLB-31 has participated in and played significant roles in two real-world Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief operations, conducted four MEU Certification Exercises (most MEUs will only do one in a two-year period), participated in six major bi-lateral exercis-

es with over eight foreign nations in five different countries, and deployed on amphibious ships on five separate occasions. Not many can say that probably no one! While those accomplishments are remarkable, nothing compares to witnessing the professionalism and dedication of our Marines, Sailors, and families that make all of these great things happen. Words cannot describe the pride and the humility that is felt when I witness the personal sacrifices that are made to ensure CLB-31 is the best that it can be. I have seen young men and women leave what is comfortable, in order to do what the Marine Corps asks them. I have seen young men and women leave families because the Marine Corps needs them. I have seen young families take care of business at home while their loved ones are away at sea or even while their loved ones are home, but busy getting ready for the next deployment. I have seen a team come together, each with their own special and critical role so that as a battalion, and as a MEU we can be successful. I have seen tears and frustration. I have seen smiles and joy. One thing I hoped to see and did, was a familya family of Marine, Sailors, and their families all a part of one great organization. Linda and I cannot thank you enough for your sacrifices and dedication to CLB-31. What you have accomplished for the good of this unit is truly humbling. I remember coming to CLB-31 for the first time, not sure what to expect. We were nervous, not sure if we were up to the tremendous responsibility. We quickly realized that we came into a great team, comprised of an amazing group of people. Linda and I can say with all our hearts that you have made an incredible impression on us that we will never forget. We have learned so much from you and leave this unit better people. We can only hope that our time here has helped you in some small way. As I close this letter, please know that you make a difference every day in a way that you will never fully realize. Your sacrifices are worth it. Our world is more secure and lives have been saved and changed because of your service. Thank you. God bless you and Semper Fidelis, LtCol Will Arick

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Important Numbers American Red Cross 645-3800 From US: (toll-free) 1 (877) 272-7337 Emergency 911 on base 911 911 off base 098-893-7911 Naval Hospital ER 645-7338 ER from off base 098-893-1984 Poison Control 643-7700 Domestic Violence 634-4357 Spouse Abuse 634-3123 Suicide Hotline 634-4357 Family Services Childcare call Resource and Referral 645-4117 WIC 645-9302 Marine Corps Family Team Building 645-3689 Personal Service Centers: Courtney 622-7332/9754 Foster 645-2104/2106 Hansen 623-2622/2646 Kinser 637-2815/1628 Schwab 625-2622/2646 Counseling Services Counseling & Advocacy 645-2915/2916/2918 MFLAC 623-3050 Military OneSource OCONUS dial 145 from any DSN line US dial 1-800-342-9647 Base Pass & ID 645-4038 Base Legal 645-7144/1037 Housing Kadena 634-4008 Auto Towing 645-7441 After hours 090-3794-2556

Sergeant Majors Message

Marines, Sailors, friends and family members. Another patrol complete and the Marines and Sailors of CLB once again made themselves known throughout the Pacific region conducting Bilateral training with at least five different nations. The Marines and Sailors worked very hard prior to deploying to get ready for the various missions that had been planned. Their dedication and flawless execution was noted by the leadership as well as the other services and VIPs that visited the site to view the event. Many were impressed with the knowledge and ability of the junior personnel that briefed their areas with skill level of those normally senior. While training in two totally different environments, everyone remain very motivated and professional. Several of the junior Marines were very impressive during the Evacuation Control Center (ECC) operation while in Thailand and the bilateral training with the Korean Marines. Several had the opportunity to hone the Basic Skills Training performing rifle and pistol drills, MCMAP and Ty Kwon Do and various types of repelling to include Australian Style repelling. The Marines and Sailors also performed their normal duties with excellence while not only supporting the command but BLT 1/4 with two hot meals daily, Motor Transport, Engineer and Ammunition support which allowed them to focus more on their training and execution of various ranges throughout the area. Having been with the command now for over two years, I can honestly say that there is no better

command to have served with because of the caliber of personnel, their ability to continue to rise to the occasion when called upon and the support we receive from the from the family and loved ones. I hope everyone enjoy the summer as we prepare for the future events we have over the horizon. Semper Fi!! SgtMaj Anthony P Goss

Chaplains Corner
Today we gathered as a battalion on the Hanson track field to seal in history for all time a photo of our motivated Marines and Sailors of CLB-31. As I stood looking at the camera, I recalled how I envisioned the day to have blue skies and a bright shining sun. Rather, the sky was ominous and the rain poured down soaking us to the bone. But we smiled, stood at attention, and fulfilled our appointed place of duty. When I joined the military I knew I was going in the "service." As anyone knows, service requires sacrifice. So when I considered the prospect of sacrifice my thoughts were directed toward a deployed status of 7-12 months in a combat zone and rightfully so, a combat deployment is an enormous sacrifice! But as I was standing in the rain feeling the water soaking through to my skin and watching everyone around me progressively getting wet, I thought to myself, This is somewhat of a sacrifice, too! I mean, what company in the civilian world would in their right mind gather 350 of its employees in the pouring rain for a group picture? I think when we join the military, the service, we often forget the little sacrifices, like standing in the rain for a photo, having to be careful with our diet and our exercise to stay Marine Corps fit, coming home late, going home early, receiving a call in the middle of the night, and yet another inspection, field op, or patrol. I think its all the little sacrifices, the little inconveniences as apposed to the big sacrifices we didnt totally prepare for when we came into the military (or married a military member) that are sometimes the hardest about our service. And to be quit honest, its the little sacrifices and inconveniences that drain us up and tire us out like getting wet for a photo! What is the cure? I think we can look at the answer from two different angles. The first angle is from the standpoint of being an American. We loose sight of the aspect, both as a military member and a spouse or child of a military member, that all the hard little sacrifices we face is to secure the freedom of those at home. We are serving our fellow Americans so they can enjoy safely prospering by ensuring the bad people are kept far away. And our serving means having to make lots of little (and sometimes big) sacrifices. The second angle is from the standpoint of being made in Gods image. God by his very nature is a servant. In fact, we see his service most clearly in the sacrifice of his son, Jesus, on the cross. And Jesus himself said, as he washed the disciples feet, Go and do likewise, i.e. serve one another. In other words, having a servant attitude and living to serve, making daily sacrifices, is the most freeing and enjoyable way to live because its in line with the way God created us! Service is hard. Sacrifice is hard. Service and sacrifice by its very nature means giving up your wants for the sake of another. In our case, for the freedom of our fellow Americans and for fulfilling the way God has created us to imitate him. Thank you for your service! Gratefully, Chaplain Craig

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Family Readiness Officer...Outgoing

CLB-31 Marines, Sailors and families, How could 3 years fly by so quickly? Ill tell you howdeployment, return, deployment, return, deployment...just repeat that about 3 to 4 times per year and the time just sails by! I am an old-timer at CLB-31 because out of all the Marines and Sailors, to include LtCol. Arick, I have been at the Battalion the longest. Boy has it been a wild ride! I will look on my time with CLB-31 fondly. Ill remember the second week on the job when I came to work and my whole building was empty because EVERYONE had deployed. Ill remember the Spouses Pre-Deployment briefs where I met some of our lovely spouses for the first time. The Christmas parties where our children stood wide eyed, waiting to sit on Santas lap to tell him of their Christmas wishes. I will remember our Dining In and how I laughed so much that my cheeks still hurt the next morning. The formations on the first of the month where Marines stood proudly, waiting to have their new chevrons pinned on for their promotion. I will remember the Engineer Platoon synchronized swimming, the cupcake auction, the 500 yard Australia deployment of the Essex (well it seems like thats as far as it got), the return of the Essex from Australia. I will remember our Marine Corps Ball and how sharp each Marine and Sailor looked in their Dress Blues. Marines and Corpsmen celebrated the history of the Corps and later danced the night away. There was no rank, not a care or trouble in sight, just friends celebrating together.

I have truly been blessed to work with such amazing Marines, Sailors and families and am bittersweet about leaving. You are like family to me and I love my family. Thank you for trusting me, for sharing trials and triumphs, and thank you for including me. It has been an absolute honor to serve you as the CLB-31 Family Readiness Officer. I wish you all happiness and success in the future. Cindy Reiter CLB-31 Family Readiness Officer

Family Readiness Officer...Incoming

My name is Carolyn Burgin and I am your new CLB-31 Family Readiness Officer. I am truly honored to have been selected to be youre FRO, and I am looking forward to meeting each of you and building some great relationships, having lots of laughs, and being a part of this amazing battalion. I am here to provide a variety of resources local and stateside to better prepare you for the challenges of embracing the Marine Corps lifestyle, so please take full advantage of my experience with the Marine Corps resources on and off island, as well as my personal experiences as a Marine Corps spouse. I will give my all to each and every one of you and your families here, back home, while on island or deployed. Please dont hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have! My door is always open even if you just want to stop by to say hello. Thank you for all you do and I am looking forward to serving you, and your families. Carolyn Burgin CLB-31 Family Readiness Officer

DSN: 623-3135 Cell: 090-6861-7928 carolyn.burgin@usmc.mil

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Supply Platoon
Since Christmas we have said many Hellos and Good-byes in our shop, amidst the high tempo garrison and deployed requirements. LCpl Stanley just had her baby, too. On Friday, May 4th, 2012 at 0830, they welcomed Lucy Stanley into the world. She is very healthy at 6 lbs 11 oz and 19. Both 1st Lt Luna, Corporals Babin, Dohse, Jones baby and mom are doing great, and of and Rivera, and Lance Corporals Mendoza, course, dad is very proud and happy that Solaita, and SanchezQuirroz all moved both are okay. onto new duty stations back in the US. Sergeant Eltayeb and Private First Class Spring Patrol 2012 was successful and is Wise both returned to the civilian world. now in the books. The Marines of CLB-31 Each of these Marines was an important Supply maintained an uninterrupted level asset to the success of the Supply team. of support despite the re-configuration of Their talents, abilities, knowledge, and the Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG) in willingness to carry out the mission were the middle of the deployment. Because of invaluable and they are very much missed. this level of focus, the maintainers were able to receive the appropriate level of We welcomed Sergeant Hernandez and repair parts and actually conduct maintehis family right before we left for Spring nance on white beach in between rePatrol. LCpl HernandezDeanda and Priconfiguration. On top of the grinding vate First Class Garcia, Haas, Dennis, and tempo of deployed requirements, the Davis all arrived in time to replace the supply Marines braved the freezing temgreat Marines we lost. Each is quickly peratures to fire small arms and particilearning the ropes of GCSS-MC and fitting pate in the Mountain Warfare Training in quite well with the shop. with the ROK Marines. It was cold but well worth the chance of a lifetime to take part in a rare opportunity. We stress to the Marines that being with the 31st MEU isnt a chore or something to frown upon, but a moment to be proud of since so many others will never get a chance to do what we do and go the places we have been. We are preparing for an inspection, a change of command, CLBEX, Fall Patrol 2012, amongst all the other high priority daily requirements. Meeting the mission whilst maintaining proper accountability of all Battalion assets is no small feat, and is a challenge the Supply section wholeheartedly accepts. In a nutshell time goes quickly here and we try to take every moment we can to remember those who have passed through Supply, and also welcome those who will continue to carry the torch in this great journey.

Maintenance Platoon
Over the past few months, Maintenance Platoon Marines have been conducting real world training exercises from the sweat-lands of Thailand to the teeth chattering winds of a close Asian ally. In addition to their usual demanding maintenance support role here on Okinawa, the Marines were required to keep tactical gear operational in support of all attachments to the MEU. During Cobra Gold 2012, the Marines provided critical field expedient repairs on various types of equipment spread out over three different sites in Thailand. When called upon, our Marines were readily accessible in a moments notice to repair artillery weapon systems for the Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise. The Marines also managed to devote time to a local orphanage and their selflessness was greatly appreciated. Throughout these exercises, Marines ensured that tactical vehicles stayed rolling. The 2nd major exercise of Spring Patrol 2012 tested the Marines proficiency and resolve in an extremely cold climate with limited resources. As expected, they worked diligently with local units in getting the required tools and equipment needed to fulfill the mission. The Marines took a break from maintenance efforts to conduct Taekwondo training and a sports day with our counterparts as well as build community relations with volunteer work at an afterschool childrens center. In preparation for the return back to garrison, the small warm beds aboard the vessels were a welcome relief from the tiny 2-man tents that exposed Marines to near freezing temperatures. As expected, Maintenance Platoon was thrust back into a high tempo and aggressive maintenance cycle upon their return. One of the key components that keeps CLB-31 rolling following the retrograde is the successful conduct of the maintenance stand down of all equipment. Our Marines worked around the clock inspecting, inducting, and repairing nearly 1000 pieces of equipment; CLB and BLT combined. In addition, Maintenance Platoon is preparing for a CGRI, MRI, and COC. Overall, maintenance Marines retained the high reputation that they have earned by conducting themselves professionally and maintaining a high level of readiness for the battalion while conducting operations. The Marines of Maintenance Platoon are always willing and able to take on the additional challenges of working in a field environment in addition to working outside of their field ensuring the overall mission success of CLB-31.

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Headquarters Platoon
S-1
Spring Patrol proved to be challenging, but rewarding for all the Marines of S1. In all, we got to experience operations on three different ships and in three countries. On ship we took some time away from work to train during PT and MCMAP and in the field we were able to take some time out for multiple community relations projects while not conducting CLOC operations. GySgt Casas, Sgt Jones, Cpl Williams, and LCpl Blount all completed their last Patrol with CLB 31, passing the torch to PFC Ragudo and 2ndLt Dierling who enjoyed learning what the next few years of their careers will be like onboard ship. LCpl Izaguirre, LCpl Goodwin, and PFC Tran made great strides towards our CGRI inspection readiness while at Camp Hansen. The experience and relationships we've developed with all these Marines will be missed, but we're excited to meet, train, and develop the new Marines that will be checking into the battalion this summer. The first additions we've added to the S1 team include PFC Cabrera and LCpl Haupt. PFC Cabrera joined us fresh from Personnel Administration School and LCpl Haupt will be with us till the new year, serving as the new Battalion Mail Clerk. After several months of outstanding performance as the Battalion Mail Clerk, LCpl Izaguirre has returned to her assigned billet in the S4. Our Marines have worked hard and distinguished themselves over the past few months. Congratulations to GySgt Casas and Cpl Williams for their recent promotions and congratulations to GySgt Casas and Sgt Jones for their recent reenlistments. We are losing two great Marines, but their decision to reenlist will ensure their maintained impact on the future of the Corps. Congratulations to PFC Ragudo and LCpl Blount as well for earning their Grey and Green MCMAP belts respectively.

S-4
The Marines from the S-4 had a very wobbly and excited Spring Patrol during the months of February through April. The S-4 was split with Marines going to Thailand and with Marines that had to stay behind for the following on exercise while one of the ships was being worked on. The Marines that went to Thailand experienced a six day transit to Thailand where the food service Marines worked in the ships galley to ensure meals were prepared and Marines were fed. The ammo techs spent their time preparing for ammunition transaction by familiarizing themselves with the required procedures and paperwork. The armory custodians maintained accountability of weapons and prepared rosters to be able to keep track of weapons throughout the different training areas that going to be occupied. The maintenance management section ensured vehicle startups were being conducted on ship in order to conduct preventive maintenance to ensure our gear was ready for when we arrived. Once we arrived on the shores of Thailand the

S-4 Marines started off their journey to Ghost Town with an early LCU run followed by an eight hour bus ride through the Thai country side. The journey was long and interesting and viewing outside the bus window one could see the roads full of people whom some smiled and waved, motorcycles with up to 5 riders, and livestock ranging from dogs to water buffalos. Once at Ghost town the Marines could feel the heat and humidity that scorched the area. The food service Marines immediately began to set up an expeditionary chow hall to be able to prepare and serve hot meals. The ammunition Marines made lesion with the field ammunition supply point established the MLG to provide support the battalion landing team elements that were training in the area. Mean time the maintenance management section was ensuring the maintenance issues were being tracked and that parts required for repairs were being placed on order and processed. Once that exercise was complete the Marines worked hard to ensure all of their gear was cleaned and packed away ready for the next

exercise. Once the Marines got back on ship they took some well deserved showers and prepared themselves for a port visit a Pattaya for some well deserved rest and relaxation. After the port visit the Marines got ready to come back to Okinawa to refit with an additional ship and embark to a cold, rainy and windy nation. The Marines felt the difference in temperatures from going to being close to one hundred degrees to down to twenty on some nights. Regardless the change in climate each section of the S-4 executed their mission weather it was to prepare and serve chow, track and issue out ammunition, keep track of maintenance, account for weapons and to look out for safety. The Marines from the S-4 performed their duties well and gained a lot of experience with in each of their specialties. After getting back on ship the Marines were able to experience two days of liberty in Sasebo before returning to Okinawa. Once back at Camp Hansen the Marines from the S-4 began to clean and account for their gear and begin working on getting ready for the Commanding Generals Readiness Inspection. spend time with his new bride and to prepare for the birth of their first child in August! We all look forward to spending the next few months here in Okinawa. This summer is proving to be busy too. We're simultaneously preparing for a CGRI inspection, preparing for the Commanding Officer's Chang of Command ceremony, conducting annual training, and keeping up with all the administration that goes along with a busy PCS season. If anyone can handle it, it's the Marines of S1. We have a great group that's capable of anything thrown their way. Thank you for all you do Marines!

DISBURSING
As the battalion conducts operations in different ships and various locations on land, Disbursing Marines often time have to work independently. Such was the case during COBRA GOLD and Spring Patrol where Cpl Zeitlow, Cpl Francis and LCpl Perez carried out their respective duties in highly professional manner. Cpl Zeitlow augmented Navy Disbursing on the USS GERMANTOWN and USS TORTUGA, issuing approximately 400 cash cards and providing service to over 500 Marines. Cpl Francis augmented Navy Disbursing on the USS DENVER, issuing approximately 200 cash cards along with over 85 Marine Cash transactions

totaling over $5,600 and providing service to over 500 Marines. LCpl Perez was aboard the USS ESSEX, issuing over 500 cash cards along with over 230 Marine Cash transactions totaling over $20,000. LCpl Perez was accountable for over $20,000 on a daily basis while providing service to over 1,000 Marines. LCpl Perez was also the Marine of the Month for the month of March. Since returning from Spring Patrol the Marines of S1 have been able to take some well deserved time off to spend with their friends and family. LCpl Goodwin took the opportunity to

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Health Service Support Platoon

The beginning of the year 2012 started out a bit on the slow side, with deployment delays due to ships not arriving on their first expected dates but the first group out had fun while performing their mission at Cobra Gold doing Community Relations projects and various other activities. During Ssang Yong deployment to Korea, there was some difficulty landing ashore but once everyone was ashore, it was cold and chaotic. During their time there, HSS personnel participated in various exercises, from mountain warfare to local martial arts training. The nationals were noted to have superb standing game, while US Marines During Cobra Gold, the ECC (Evacuation dominated ground fighting. The US Marines Control Center) team presented their medi- and Corpsmen experienced some flooding cal capabilities during evacuation procearound day two, making their training a bit dures and disaster relief to include posidifficult. One Corpsman recounted having tions of the field corpsman with a medical to place wooden planks under their tent kit, to a Battalion Aid Station performing due to extreme flooding. As the time at minor surgeries and basic care. Different SSang Yong came to a close, the weather countries from the Asia Pacific were in became warmer and the sun decided to attendance to these trainings. We had a shine on all. US forces and ROK Marines lot of fun working with the different Nawere seen trading for souvenirs and gifts tionals and it was a rewarding experience, for families back home. The chow hall bePreventive Medicine Technician, HM3 Ibim came almost obsolete when US Marines Briggs reminisced. found local vendors with great menus. On the last day, in good spirit and competitiveness, the nationals played various sports against US Marines and Corpsmen. Americans crushed national teams in basketball, but they took a whooping when the nationals soccer team won 5-4. I liked Ssang Yong more because it felt more like a cohesive event, building good relations with the national Marines; cross-training and interacting. Some of the national Marines showed us some of their favorite dishes to eat, and were surprised by American appetite because of how large our portions were and how many servings we kept going back for, recalled HM3 Demarkis Mincy. Medical and Dental Officer at Hansen Branch Health Clinic, LT Karen Mayr and LT Jason Dulac had successfully completed the Surface Warfare Officer Designator and was pinned aboard the USS Essex April 1, 2012.

Communications Platoon
The beginning of the year 2012 started out a bit on the slow side, with deployment delays due to ships not arriving on their first expected dates but the first group out had fun while performing their mission at Cobra Gold doing Community Relations projects and various other activities. During Cobra Gold, the ECC (Evacuation Control Center) team presented their medical capabilities during evacuation procedures and disaster relief to include positions of the field corpsman with a medical kit, to a Battalion Aid Station performing minor surgeries and basic care. Different countries from the Asia Pacific were in attendance to these trainings. We had a lot of fun working with the different Nationals and it was a rewarding experience, Preventive Medicine Technician, HM3 Ibim Briggs reminisced. During Ssang Yong deployment to Korea, there was some difficulty landing ashore but once everyone was ashore, it was cold and chaotic. During their time there, HSS personnel participated in various exercises, from mountain warfare to local martial arts training. The nationals were noted to have superb standing game, while US Marines dominated ground fighting. The US Marines and Corpsmen experienced some flooding around day two, making their training a bit difficult. One Corpsman recounted having to place wooden planks under their tent due to extreme flooding. As the time at SSang Yong came to a close, the weather became warmer and the sun decided to shine on all. US forces and ROK Marines were seen trading for souvenirs and gifts for families back home. The chow hall became almost obsolete when US Marines found local vendors with great menus. On the last day, in good spirit and competitiveness, the nationals played various sports against US Marines and Corpsmen. Americans crushed national teams in basketball, but they took a whooping when the nationals soccer team won 5-4. I liked Ssang Yong more because it felt more like a cohesive event, building good relations with the national Marines; cross-training and interacting. Some of the national Marines showed us some of their favorite dishes to eat, and were surprised by American appetite because of how large our portions were and how many servings we kept going back for, recalled HM3 Demarkis Mincy. Medical and Dental Officer at Hansen Branch Health Clinic, LT Karen Mayr and LT Jason Dulac had successfully completed the Surface Warfare Officer Designator and was pinned aboard the USS Essex April 1, 2012.

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Engineer Platoon
CLBs Engineers have been working hard. Since our last battalion newsletter, weve continuously knocked the ball out of the park in each exercise weve held. During field operations ranging from extreme heat to below freezing, weve kept the MEU moving forward, and its because your Marines in this platoon making it happen. It constantly holds me in awe of the leadership and initiative of these young Engineers who will work the longest and oddest hours in the most demanding environments for no other reason than they expect it of each other. Of course, no hard work is without reward, and we have made some immensely enjoyable port calls, with more coming up on our fall patrol! Weve had many personnel leave and many new faces join, and several promotions, both regular and meritorious, over the past several months, all well deserved. Above all, know that the Engineers are having a great time and working hard doing valuable training! GySgt Smith, Engineer Platoon SNCOIC

The mission of Combat Logistics Battalion 31 is to provide ground combat service support to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, to conduct special operations as directed, and to act as the nucleus for expanded combat service support operations

Motor Transport Platoon

Theres something to be said about the hardest working MOS in the USMC. What could that MOS be? Well, Im glad you asked, Motor Transport of course 3531 Motor T. Marines in the Motor Transport platoon have fearlessly operated trucks with a gross vehicle weight of almost 62,000 pounds up and down the various terrains of multiple foreign lands during our recent deployment. of course, children. At one point, a convoy had to pass through a town auction that was taking place in the road. Distractions were everywhere. Barking, mooing, and cocka-doodle-doing all added to the chaotic environment we called Cobra Gold (and of course, the scalding heat). Whether it was a line of chicks crossing the road, or a person with no shoes trying to jump onto the trucks to sell us various items to include chicken Motor T performed phenomenally feet, the platoon maintained focus during Cobra Gold 2012. Cobra and completed the mission. All Gold is the pinnacle of multiday-every day, and not a chicken national cooperative training oper- feather misplaced. Ultimately, ations, and the definition of close- Cobra Gold was a success, and it quarters vehicle operations. The couldnt have been done without platoon safely maneuvered conthe relentless work ethic of CLB-31 voys of 7-tons through the narrow Motor T. The Marines had tremensmall village towns of Thailand that dous amounts of responsibility and could barely fit the trucks. On top executed flawlessly. of this the streets were filled with chickens, cows, dogs, monks, and A month later, on a random Asian peninsula, Motor T found ourselves having to transition from the unwavering heat of Thailand to frigid temperatures that were below 20 degrees at night. The platoon effortlessly completed overwhelming amounts of support missions given unto them on a daily basis. During their time in Taekwondo Country, the platoon distributed over 6 tons of food, moved 1500+ troops, and an undisclosed amount of ammunition. From 0400 to 2359, the Marines of Motor T were busy leaving 600+ miles of tracks all over the countryin all weather conditions. When a young PFC was asked about his feelings toward Spring Patrol, he simply replied, Any clime and place is an understatement. GIT R DONEE!!

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Landing Support Platoon

Landing Support (LS) Platoon has been extremely busy debarking from their most current deployment to South Korea. The job of the LS Marines is to facilitate and supervise the movements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. Once in Korea, the LS Marines were the first to leave the ships to set up for the port and beach operations. After the completion of the operations, the platoon then went to the camp to join with CLB 31 where they underwent training and interaction with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Marines. While in Korea, the LS platoon had Marines participate in different training with the ROK Marines. The training offered was a small arms range, tae kwon do and Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) exchange and Mountain Warfare Training. Not only did the LS Marines train with the ROK Marines; they also participated in Helicopter Support Team (HST) missions. Nearing the end of the deployment, LS prepared for the retrograde of all the equipment and personnel to Okinawa. In the upcoming months, LS will be training for CLBEX and PHIBLEX in the fall. During the months of March and April, LS platoon promoted a few Non -Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and junior Marines. The following Marines were promoted to Corporal: Cpl Aaron Gudex, Cpl Antony Mock, and Cpl Aaron Wells and the following Marines were promoted to Lance Corporal: LCpl Deronta Creed and LCpl Javier Sanchez. LCPL Janika Braswell

Military Police
As the battalion conducts operations in different ships and various locations on land, Disbursing Marines often time have to work independently. Such was the case during COBRA GOLD and Spring Patrol where Cpl Zeitlow, Cpl Francis and LCpl Perez carried out their respective duties in highly professional manner. Cpl Zeitlow augmented Navy Disbursing on the USS GERMANTOWN and USS TORTUGA, issuing approximately 400 cash cards and providing service to over 500 Marines. Cpl Francis augmented Navy Disbursing on the USS DENVER, issuing approximately 200 cash cards along with over 85 Marine Cash transactions totaling over $5,600 and providing service to over 500 Marines. LCpl Perez was aboard the USS ESSEX, issuing over 500 cash cards along with over 230 Marine Cash transactions totaling over $20,000. LCpl Perez was accountable for over $20,000 on a daily basis while providing service to over 1,000 Marines. LCpl Perez was also the Marine of the Month for the month of March. Since returning from Spring Patrol the Marines of S1 have been able to take some well deserved time off to spend with their friends and family. LCpl Goodwin took the opportunity to spend time with his new bride and to prepare for the birth of their first child in August! We all look forward to spending the next few months here in Okinawa. This summer is proving to be busy too. We're simultaneously preparing for a CGRI inspection, preparing for the Commanding Officer's Chang of Command ceremony, conducting annual training, and keeping up with all the administration that goes along with a busy PCS season. If anyone can handle it, it's the Marines of S1. We have a great group that's capable of anything thrown their way. Thank you for all you do Marines!

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April, May Awards and Promotions CONGRATULATIONS!

To Sergeant - May Sgt David Gonzalez

To Corporal - April Cpl Lawrence Blair Cpl Kong Her Cpl Charles Nelson Cpl Parker Otis

To Corporal - May Cpl Laura Bradstad Cpl Charles Fetterly III Cpl Aaron Gudex Cpl Antony Mock Cpl Terrence Pryor Cpl Carlos Sahagun Cpl Ryan Sauls

To Lance Corporal - April LCpl Deronta Creed LCpl Michael Haupt LCpl Alexander Figueroa LCpl Elizabeth Sanchez LCpl Justin Rush To Lance Corporal - May LCpl Jeremy Jacobe LCpl Joseph Jarman II LCpl Javier Sanchez LCpl Mark Stucklen LCpl Justin Tallo LCpl Christopher Thorp To Private First Class - May Pfc Travis Huskey

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION - APRIL

Cpl Christopher Baldwin

NAVY AND MARINE CORPS ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL - APRIL

Cpl Jeffrey Hunter

P AGE

13

MISC...
MCFTB TRAINING DATES
Financial Planning Tuesday, June 12 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m Safe and Sound All Summer Saturday, June 16th 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. For Children 10 and up Coping with Stress & Adjusting Family Roles Tuesday, June 19th 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For Reservations call 645-3698 Classes may be canceled due to lack of participants. Safe and Sound at Home Tuesday, July 26th 5:3 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Building Lasting Relationships July 5th 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Typhoon Season...
Each year Okinawas Typhoon Season lasts from June to November. Are you Prepared? Do you have a Typhoon kit ready? Would you know what to do if a typhoon was to hit Okinawa? Here are some great website that can help you prepare: www.kadena.af.mil (library/fact sheet) www.usno.navy.mil/jtwc www.fema.gov/areyouready/hurricanes www.emergencypreparednessinfo.net For up-to date typhoon information go to: www.weather.kadenaforcesupport.com

CLB - 31 Web and Facebook Page eMarine: www.eMarine.org Unit location Japan3DMLG, CLR-37, CLB-31 Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kin-Japan/Combat-LogisticsBattalion-31/141423389227626?ref=s&v=wall 31st MEU Website: 3http://www.marines.mil/unit/31stmeu/Pages/default.aspx 31st MEU Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Okinawa-Japan/31st-MarineExpeditionary-Unit/115253045176016