Photo Information

Sgt. Edgar L. Leon, a helicopter engine mechanic with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, explains the process of dissasembling a T-700 engine to Maj. Travis R. Tibbetts, a H1 intermediate weapon support team leader with Naval Inventory Control Point, during a "Boots on the Ground" outreach event, here Oct. 14. The Marines in the squadron sections highlighted improvements they've made and demonstrated how they accomplished them. (Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Christopher O'Quin)(Released)

Photo by Cpl. Christopher O'Quin

‘Boots on the Ground’ strengthens MAG-39

14 Oct 2009 | Cpl. Christopher O'Quin 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

Marines, sailors and civilians from the Naval Aviation Enterprise gathered at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton to conduct a “Boots on the Ground,” outreach event with Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Oct. 14.

The event provided leadership an opportunity to see the accomplishments of their junior enlisted, and for junior enlisted to voice concerns and pose questions.

The Naval Aviation Enterprise benefits from Boots on the Ground because they can see that the teams here at MAG-39 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 are doing well, explained Col. Steve Franklin, director of Aviation Logistics, Headquarters Marine Corps. It provides a forum where leaders of Naval Aviation can hear what is doing well, and what could be doing better.

“We want common support equipment for the maintenance of the legacy aircraft and this was a place to make our voices heard,” said Maj. Jack G. Abate, the aviation maintenance officer with MALS-39. “I think we’ll see more of an improvement down the road and I’m already seeing some. But, I think this is a fantastic venue that will get the attention it deserves.”

The aviation leadership also had the chance to tour some of MAG-39’s squadrons and speak to the Marines, giving them a first hand look at the status of the squadrons’ readiness.

“It was a good way to go to the top in a professional manner and show our successes,” said Cpl. Mack K. Roberts, a supply clerk with MALS-39.

With the help and hard work from MAG-39, the senior leadership left the air station with information that will benefit the Naval Aviation community as it develops in the 21st Century.

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