Posted on 11/17/2005 9:54:42 PM PST by SandRat
CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq (Nov. 17, 2005) -- Every day convoys and civilian traffic travel the roads of Iraq which spread like veins throughout the country. The roads have seen the wear and tear of constant driving, improvised explosive device attacks and weather-related deterioration.
The answer to the problem is the multi-talented Marines of Engineer Support Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward). Their engineering and tactical skill is what makes them the ultimate wartime road construction crew.
The company frequently ventures to make these repairs that are beneficial to both the Iraqi populace and coalition forces.
These repairs keep the roads safe for both the drivers and other coalition forces who already have a dangerous job driving them, said Sgt. Seth T. Williams, assistant security commander.
“Doing the repairs helps both us and the civilians get from point A to point B with out any harm,” the Indianapolis native explained. “Anything we can do to help our fellow service members out is awesome.”
Making these repairs is an arduous task and many of the Marines had to learn the process while in the danger of a war environment.
“The interesting thing about this company is that not a single Marine is [military occupational specialty] trained in conducting expedient road repair,” said Capt. Frank L. McClintick, company commander, and Hoquiam, Wash. native. “Our mission would normally call for us to fill a hole with gravel or dirt and push on.
“Since we have been on deck, the Marines have learned how to mix and pour concrete, emplace instant road repair -- also known as cold patch -- and Pave Mend, while under fire and observation from the enemy,” he explained.
Even though this is not their primary training, many of the Marines of Engineer Support Co. jump at the opportunity to go out and make these repairs because of the satisfaction they receive helping out their fellow service member, Lance Cpl. Nicholas F. Chapman, a heavy equipment operator with the company said.
“It makes me feel good to help them out,” he explained. “I haven’t missed a road repair convoy since I have been out here.”
Doing the repairs also keeps the Marines skill sharp for future operations.
“These Marines get to work and use the machinery they were trained on out here,” Williams explained. “It keeps the Marines sharp and ready to work through any situation.”
Increasing rapport with the local Iraqi community is a huge benefit to the coalition that the company provides.
“These Marines are providing a service to the community by performing much needed repairs to the infrastructure which, in turn, strengthens the bond between the American serviceman on the ground and the local Iraqi,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 John H. Walter, the heavy equipment platoon commander with the company and Northport, N.Y., native.
The difference the company makes by patching up the scars of war in Iraq is something that the Iraqi people have began to appreciate, Williams said.
“Talking to them you can tell they are understanding and appreciative,” he added.
When all is said and done, it is another day’s work for the company and another day where they have improved the lives of the citizens of Iraq and coalition forces.
MARINES at work
Thanks for the ping!
BTTT
I was at TQ in July - that's where we flew into on the way to Ramadi.
There's a lot of my friends there, too. Big base.
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