San Diego, Calif. -- Sergeants major, master gunnery sergeants and Single Marine Program representatives from throughout 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing traveled to Carlsbad Lagoon, Calif., for a day on the water as an introduction to a Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) program called Operation Adrenaline Rush, Sept. 17.
Operation Adrenaline Rush combines combat and operational stress control principles with a multitude of outdoor recreation adventure activities to mitigate boredom and high-risk behavior in recently deployed Marines and Sailors.
On this occasion, Marines participated in activities such as paddle boarding, jet skiing and wakeboarding.
“The program is a key to building unit cohesion after deployment,” said Jessica Magley, Operation Adrenaline Rush coordinator with MCCS. “This is a good way to get everyone together, where the unit doesn’t have to worry about coordinating everything.”
The event allowed senior leaders a chance to see how to participate in events like these to keep Marines engaged and willing to learn.
“To be able to put on an event like this through MCCS and their support, I think is huge,” said Sgt. Maj. Patrick Kimble, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing sergeant major. “The potential is huge and I think the use of this program will significantly increase.”
The program allowed Marines a chance to come together in a fun and stress free environment.
“Events like these bring us together and we enjoy our time,” said Lance Cpl. Claudia Flores, an aviation operation specialist with Marine Aircraft Group 16. “It gives us a chance to get to know each other.”
The event taught leaders new ways to ensure troop welfare and stimulate a strong learning environment for their units to remain mission ready. For more information, contact the Operation Adrenaline Rush coordinator at (858) 577-4149.