Posted on 03/07/2006 4:42:23 PM PST by SandRat
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (March 7, 2006) -- The bags were being loaded and the emotions ran high as the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment were getting ready to ride back into Iraq to continue the fight on the Global War on Terrorism as they left here March 6.
Many of the Marines in the battalion returned last year in August from a seven-month-long deployment in Fallujah and Karmah, Iraq. The experience and knowledge of what is taking place there is a part of many men’s preparation for what they’ll be getting back into.
“The short turn around for us has been a challenge to the families, but has kept our proficiency at a high level,” explained Capt. Mark Liston, Weapons Company Commander.
The Marines began gathering their things as they stood with their family members one last time before loading the buses and heading off to catch their flight. Although the Marines have not been home for very long, they know what their mission is, explained Liston.
The doors opened and the Marines climbed in as they waved one last time to their fellow Marines and family members there seeing them off for another successful tour in Iraq protecting the freedoms of the United States.
The first leg of the battalion made their way out of Camp Lejeune to meet the Marines they will replace. Their missions may have changed slightly from their previous deployment.
“The basics are what will keep us going over there,” Liston said. “That’s what composed most of our pre-deployment training.”
Liston and all the Marines are prepared to adapt what they have already learned about this enemy, and combine it with the other Marines knowledge of what is happening now to close with and destroy their enemy.
“The combination of our high proficiency and all the recent training has made us ready to accomplish the missions to which we will be tasked,” Liston explained. “The unit we are replacing has had much success and we will incorporate what they have done with our past success to overcome the enemy.”
As the night drew to a close, the families wiped away their tears as they watched their heroes depart for the next chapter in their lives. The streets were cleared and the Marines of the battalion had started their voyage to a far off land where they will fight not only for their families and friends, but also for those in Iraq.
Hardened Warriors Headed in Harms Way Once More.
May GOD grant they ALL come back home!!
Godspeed, and thanks again.
Hardcore Devildogs! Get some Marines.
Chesty Puller would be proud of that comment Capt. Liston. Good luck and God bless.
Many of the Marines in the battalion returned last year in August from a seven-month-long deployment in Fallujah and Karmah, Iraq. The experience and knowledge of what is taking place there is a part of many men’s preparation for what they’ll be getting back into.
God bless them and watch over these wonderful Marines!
A Prayer for Marines
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make them aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep their hearts true, guarding them against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping them to live so that they can face their fellow Marines, their loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect their family.
Give them the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept their share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm.
Grant them the courage to be proficient in their daily performance. Keep them loyal and faithful to their superiors and to the duties their Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to them. Help them to wear their uniform with dignity, and let it remind them daily of the traditions which they must uphold.
If I they inclined to doubt, steady their faith; if they are tempted, make them strong to resist; if they should miss the mark, give them courage to try again. Guide them with the light of truth and grant them wisdom by which they may understand the answer to this prayer.
Semper Fidelis
BTTT
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Marines from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment said goodbye to their parents, siblings, spouses, children and friends as they packed up their bags only hours before beginning their voyage to Iraq. Many of the Marines returned from a deployment only six months ago only to be returning to continue their fight in the Global War on Terrorism.