Posted on 03/31/2006 4:55:32 PM PST by SandRat
MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO (March 31, 2006) -- General Robert Magnus, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, visited Naval Medical Center San Diego March 22, for a look into the health and welfare of local injured Marines.
The general took time from meetings with the commanding officer of NMCSD and Navy Medicine West to spend lunch with injured Marines and Navy corpsmen who assist them aboard NMCSD.
“You all represent an awesome team, a tremendous asset, and I have to thank you all for what you do. Semper Fi,” said Gen. Magnus.
Between the entrée and dessert, Gen. Magnus shook the hand of every sailor and Marine present, asked how they were injured and what the doctors on base had done to assist in their recovery.
“It’s great that he’s come. It really boosted troop morale,” said Sgt. Doug Hayenga, an injured Marine from Medical Holding Platoon.
The Marines in the Medical Holding Platoon are awaiting clearance to return to duty or get out on a medical discharge.
“I think it’s outstanding,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph M. Lucier, of the general’s visit.
Lucier, one of the highest ranking Marines in the Medical Holding Platoon, said he believes the younger Marines benefited from the opportunity to meet with the assistant commandant.
“The Marines get a ton of visits, but to see the number two man, is great for them,” said Lucier. “The more visits they get from the command side, it helps Marines remember that they are Marines, and that the Marine Corps hasn’t forgotten them.”
General Magnus was escorted around to the rooms of bed-ridden Marines and Marines under intensive care.
After shaking the hand of a Marine injured during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the general thanked the Marine for his service and encouraged his quick and complete recovery.
“You guys are doing an awesome job. It’s not obvious when you are watching the news. You are giving the Iraqi people justice. The Americans will not lose the war,” said the assistant commandant.
Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Robert Magnus speaks with Marines and sailors at Naval Medical Center San Diego March 22. Gen. Magnus called them “an awesome team,” and stated that “America will not lose the war.”Caring for your servicemen and women!!!
BTTT
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