Posted on 09/28/2005 4:34:32 PM PDT by SandRat
AL ASAD, Iraq, Sept. 28, 2005 — For many people, doing two jobs at once is an unwelcome burden. For hard-charging Marines, it's a challenge and a chance to become better at both.
Maj. Keith Couch, the acting commanding officer of Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2 (Forward), is leading his squadron in war while simultaneously flying combat missions in Iraq, protecting Marines and soldiers with their boots in the sand.
“Flying combat missions and commanding MWHS-2 work hand-in-hand,” said the native of Leslie County, Ky. “Commanding headquarters squadron, you have the advantage of getting a firsthand perspective of what is happening on base. Then, flying missions allows you the implementation of that knowledge on the battlefield. You are able to fly and see intelligence unfold on the battlefield.”
Couch said his position enables him to have a better perspective for doing both jobs. He compared it to having his cake and eating it too.
“I have a broader view of everything,” said Couch. “Base security, what units are coming and going, basically, the whole picture of what goes on here.”
The acting sergeant major of MWHS-2, Master Gunnery Sgt. William H. Butler, said Couch seems very comfortable in this element and he understands his roles and duties. Couch served in Operation Iraqi Freedom I, and is a veteran of flying missions in theater.
“He lets Marines do their jobs, and supports them,” said Butler. “The Deuce (MWHS-2) family atmosphere, with tight-knit units, is easily kept alive under his leadership. Flying and commanding balance each other and keep him balanced in his decision-making process.”
Couch will be flying AV-8B Harriers with Marine Attack Squadron 223. He plans on flying a couple times per week, but is prepared to fly more as long as it does not interfere with his role commanding his Deuce Marines.
“Initially, the first time you go into combat you are a bit apprehensive,” said Couch. “You learn to enjoy it because you get a chance to do what you have been training for years to do.”
Couch has served as a forward air controller with 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment and 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion in Korea and Okinawa, Japan. His wealth of knowledge and experience makes him valuable to lead the Marines in his squadron and flying as a Harrier pilot.
“When I first got to VMA-223, he was a senior captain,” said Capt. Richard Rusnok, the pilot training officer with VMA-223, who served with Couch during Operation Iraqi Freedom I. “He was, and still is, very approachable and knowledgeable about tactics and systems. He's a good role model and having him here helps us out a lot.”
Rusnok said when Couch was leaving their squadron, he still sacrificed his own time to help him and the rest of the squadron as they prepared for weapons and tactics instruction.
“He was our maintenance officer, and now serves a vital role as a functional test pilot,” said Rusnok, a native of Pittston, Pa. “After certain types of maintenance are performed on Harriers, only he and three other pilots from the squadron can fly the aircraft to ensure they are operational. Also, on the administrative side, he is someone we can call on whenever we have a problem.”
Couch's dual abilities have enabled him to serve a double purpose against the insurgents.
“Sitting behind a desk, you can't really do anything when we experience (indirect fire),” said Couch. “As a pilot, I can go out and potentially stop that from happening here to us or someone else by prosecuting enemy targets.
Marine Aviation PING!
The Marines are the Marines, and always have been. Because of who they are, historically the best as a unit, they are being mimicked by others. They will always be more consistently the best as a unit but there are several other units who will challenge them.
Excellent, the Israelis have allowed senior officers to fly in combat for years. Why hold some of your most experienced pilots out.
Huh? Any commander who did not do this would lose all respect and confidence from his troops and would soon be a an ex-commander. Or am I just recalling a silly old notion that has gone out of fashion?
BTTT
What`s all the fuss? The role of Marine officers is to LEAD Marines in combat.
Semper Fi !
Hey Rosetta - SandRat beat me to it!! LOL
This story is written by the son of Rosetta Stone! WOOOHOOOOO!!!!
Canteen ping!
During Vietnam, WWII and Korea Veteran, Colonel Robin Olds and his XO Lt.Col Chappie James (Affectionately known as "Black Man & Robin") lead and flew many, many TOPCAP (Top Combat Air Patrols) shepherding B-52s into and over the DMZ and Hanoi in F-105s and later, F-4s out of Takhli AB, Thailand.
It's a given that Commanders are expected to lead, Star.
It's also refreshing that officers are phasing out the "Management Mentaily" of the Clinton PC Military and are "Leading" again.
Jack.
PS: I also remember Sister Rosetta Stone from Cheech & Chong's "Big Bamboo" album.
There are so many things about the military of today vs. then that are refreshing! *G*
BTTT
Big deal. My CO got shot down in Vietnam. (I think the article is trying to say that Couch is CO of a support squadron flying missions with a combat squadron. It is common for pilots in headquarters squadrons to continue flying with line squadrons. They need the flight time to remain competent.)
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.