Photo Information

Cpl. Christopher Delaney, an airframe mechanic and collateral duty inspector for Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161, is currently participating in a deployment for training exercise at Creech Air Force Base, Nev., Dec. 5. The squadron is preparing to deploy with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in 2017. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kimberlyn Adams/Released)

Photo by Cpl. Kimberlyn Adams

Airframe mechanic advances peers, becomes collateral duty inspector

13 Dec 2016 | Cpl. Kimberlyn Adams 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing

Cpl. Christopher Delaney began his Marine Corps career on the yellow footprints of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, July 2012.

“I joined the Marine Corps to do something different,” said Delaney. “I was the first person in my family to join the Marine Corps. I wanted something different from the college experiment.”

Delaney is now an MV-22B Osprey airframe mechanic and a collateral duty inspector with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161.

“My job is important to the Marine Corps because I help keep up the aircraft,” said Delaney. “I’m a CDI for my squadron. My primary concern is that I finalize each job and ensure safety so we can complete the flight schedule and support the troops on the ground.”

According to Delaney, he separated himself from his peers by getting advanced qualifications to become a CDI.

“Delaney is a good Marine,” said Staff Sgt. Shival Ramroop, airframes division chief with VMM-161. “He’s one of those guys who I can tell I need something done and he will do whatever it takes to make it happen.”

Delaney is currently participating in a deployment for training exercise at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, with VMM-161 to prepare for their upcoming deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

“I just re-enlisted, so after the deployment with the 15th MEU, I would like to go be an instructor at the [Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training] for Ospreys or be a part of Marine Helicopter Squadron (HMX) 1,” said Delaney.

Delaney grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, and after beginning his Marine Corps journey, he met his wife.

“In my free time, I enjoy playing with my two dogs, hanging out with the guys from my shop and spending time with my wife,” said Delaney. “I also enjoy exploring San Diego and trying new things.”

According to Delaney, he doesn’t know if he will retire in the Marine Corps but he would like to continue with a career in aviation.

“I see the potential in him to further his career, not only in the Marine Corps, but in aviation because he has the knowledge and what it takes to excel in this environment,” said Ramroop.