[SandRat]

Staff Sgt. David A. Beaty, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369’s day crew maintenance controller in Al Qaim, stands in front of AH-1 Cobras in Al Qaim, Iraq, Nov. 18. He has overcome countless maintenance and logistical challenges for more than two months. Photo by: Cpl. Cullen J. Tiernan

[SandRat]

MARINE PING

[JennysCool]

Thanks for posting these articles, SandRat. These military reporters do a heck of a fine job -- good, concise writing. They beat the run-of-the mill MSM scribes hands down!

[Blood of Tyrants]

“They never whine or complain."

Sure doesn't sound like a Marine. ;^)

[Calpernia]

One of the greatest challenges Beaty and the Gunfighters at Al Qaim face is accomplishing their mission without the use of a hangar. But, they said they receive tremendous support from the other units stationed there.

For example, Beaty said although they don’t have a hoist, other units have let them use their cranes.

The absence of a hangar also constantly exposes the Marines to the sand and dust kicked up when the Cobras and Hueys take off.

[beebuster2000]

thanks!!