Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th

(e.g. yourname@email.com)

Forgot Password?

    Defense Visual Information Distribution Service Logo

    Calif. Marine connects Marines, wants to travel globe

    Calif. Marine connects Marines, wants to travel globe

    Photo By Sgt. Ned Johnson | Lance Cpl. Nickolas Franklin, a data network specialist with Regimental Combat Team 7,...... read more read more

    CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

    03.25.2013

    Story by Sgt. Ned Johnson 

    I Marine Expeditionary Force

    CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan— When people talk about traveling the world, they might think of places like Rome, Australia, and the Caribbean.

    Lance Cpl. Nickolas Franklin said Helmand province, Afghanistan, is just one of the many destinations he wants to visit.

    Franklin, a data network specialist with Regimental Combat Team 7, said he joined the Marine Corps to travel the world and see faraway places.

    Franklin grew up in Richmond, Calif., and had plenty to see and do on the coastline between Oakland and San Francisco, but was anxious for more.

    With family in the Marine Corps while growing up, the idea of joining the service materialized at an early age.

    “I had seen the uniforms and the lifestyle,” 21-year-old Franklin said. “That’s why I had to choose the Corps.”

    An avid Oakland Athletics fan, Franklin focused on playing baseball as a kid, but now his focus is ensuring Marines in combat can communicate.

    “He is willing to go above and beyond to accomplish the mission and has quickly become my go to Marine when it comes to data related issues,” said Staff Sgt. Felix Severino, the data chief with RCT-7.

    Franklin is more than just good at his job, he’s also a good Marine, Severino said.

    “He has a strong leadership presence and is constantly striving to improve himself and give guidance to his peers and junior Marines,” Severino said. “He is aware of his surroundings and is always boosting morale in the shop.”

    While he wants to travel the globe, Franklin is also working on his bachelor’s degree in psychology. He plans to be a psychologist someday, but not just yet.

    “I want to be a Marine Security Guard,” Franklin said. “I think it would be amazing.”

    Marine Security Guard’s provide protection at U.S. embassies around the world, which Franklin says is the perfect opportunity for him to continue his adventures. Franklin hopes to be stationed in South America if he is selected for the duty.

    Until then, he continues his job helping Marines communicate in support of Operation Enduing Freedom.

    Editor’s note: This article is part of a series wherein every week we recognize an individual Marine or sailor with Regimental Combat Team 7. The Marines and sailors of RCT-7 are dedicated, disciplined and driven to accomplish the mission, and the Marine in this article has earned special recognition for standing out among these professionals. Be sure to check every week to see who will be honored as the latest Marine of the Week.

    LEAVE A COMMENT

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 03.25.2013
    Date Posted: 03.25.2013 12:08
    Story ID: 104046
    Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF
    Hometown: RICHMOND, CA, US

    Web Views: 148
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN