Marine Corps Leader Visits 29 Palms Marine Base

After arriving by helicopter at the 29 Palms Marine base, highest ranking member of the United States Marine Corps started taking part in the day’s Enhanced Mojave Viper training. It’s designed to help Marines learn Afghanistan style operations.

“I think it’s important for the Marines to see their leader”, said Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Amos. It’s commandant James Amos’ first visit to the 29 Palms Marine Combat Center since becoming the leader of the Marine Corps in October of this year. He came to check on morale, share his vision for after we leave Afghanistan and world security.

“We transformed this training area from Iraq training grounds to Afghanistan. We need it to resemble the villages,” said the four-star General sat down for a mock meeting with leaders of the fake Afghan village. During the exercise, the Marines took control of the village and captured terrorists.

It’s as realistic as it gets. The Afghan meal helps new Marines learn how to interact and build good relationships with local leaders. These types of meetings will happen often. Actors play the part of Afghans.

I think it’s important for me to get out and watch them train”, said Amos. Amos took time during the meal to talk with the 3rd Battalian 2nd Regimine. Next year’s tour in Afghanistan will be a first for Lance Corporal Skyler Ellis and Alonzo Dunkentell. Dunkentell is most concerned about the Marine’s trial run with a new machnine gun, IAF. “It’s comforting to know that Marines take note of what squads need to go and suppress the enemy”, said Dunkentell.

Commandant Amos’ next stop is Camp Pendleton then to Yuma, Ariz.