MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Marines with Marine Wing Communications Squadron (MWCS) 38 continued birthday tradition by conducting a six-mile hike through the east side of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., Nov. 14.
“Having a squadron-wide physical fitness training evolution the day before our ball is an annual tradition we do here at MWCS-38,” said Sgt. Robert Nave, assistant training chief with MWCS-38. “So we get everyone together, build up unit cohesion and boost morale before we go celebrate our 239th Marine Corps birthday.”
During the hike, Marines carried a 45 pound pack, rifle and gas mask to make the training simulate real-world scenarios that the Marines are likely to encounter.
“This conditioning hike is important because our operational tempo has us constantly [deployed] around the globe,” said Nave. “We have to be ready and part of that readiness is maintaining good endurance and to carry a pack and your weapon to be prepared for any threat that may arise.”
Senior leadership also conducted classes ranging from chemical biological radiological neurological defense to domestic and child abuse awareness training.
“There are going to be days where you’re going to hurt, but I’m here to tell you it’s all worth it,” said Lt. Col. Dom D. Ford, commanding officer of MWCS-38, in a speech to the Marines after the hike. “So please be safe and enjoy this. You have earned this. You have earned the right to sit at those banquet tables and break bread with your comrades because you wear that eagle, globe, and anchor.”
The Marines plan to continue train to prepare for any mission and celebrate this annual tradition.