Photo By Cpl. Jacob A. Singsank | Pfc. Tracy N. Summers, 18, Stafford, Va., motor transport operator, Motor Transport...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — The only way to gain proficiency operating military vehicles is by taking them on the open road.
Motor Transport Platoon, 7th Engineer Support Battalion is scheduled to conduct a 54-vehicle tactical convoy to Camp Roberts starting April 30 in support of the unit's field training exercise.
"Motor Transport Platoon will transport personnel, supplies and equipment from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton via one convoy to Camp Roberts, California," said 1st Lt. Marcus K. Mahanty, platoon commander, Motor Transport Platoon, Support Company, 7th ESB, 1st MLG.
Mahanty, 28, Colorado Springs, Colo., stated that they are conducting the convoy in order to establish a combat service support area/forward operating base to conduct training and support the 7th ESB as they conduct engineering operations.
The convoy will be traveling in four groups. The first group will depart the evening of April 30 with the others spread throughout that night on the 315 mile trip to the base that's located between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
"The convoys are driving at night to avoid traffic," Mahanty said. "We're going through highly populated areas."
The motor transport Marines have been working everyday on the tactical vehicles to make their final adjustments and inspections to prevent any mechanical problems during the trip to Camp Roberts.
"We started preparing last week for the convoy up there," said Sgt. William J. Hodge, squad leader, Motor Transport Platoon, 7th ESB, 1st MLG. "We're making sure the vehicles are roadworthy by changing out tires, checking that the loads are strapped down and the trucks are not overweight."
The vehicles have two scheduled stops during the convoy where the Marines will look over the trucks to ensure the loads are still secured and all the lights are functioning properly.
"The convoy to Camp Roberts will be good training for the Marines," said Hodge, 25, Montgomery, Ala. "The best way to gain experience is to be behind the wheel, hauling different loads."
Hodge stated that the convoy will be a good experience for the junior and senior Marines who are conducting the logistical support.
"It's great training for everyone to make sure the vehicles are rolling on time, making the check points and keeping the communication up and working at all times," Hodge said. "This is a great training mission for the Marines so they'll know what to expect when we are deployed."
| Date Taken: | 04.28.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 04.29.2009 12:52 |
| Story ID: | 33010 |
| Location: | CAMP PENDLETON, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 1,090 |
| Downloads: | 867 |
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