2nd Recon Bn performs static-line jumps

Photo By Sgt. Grace L. Waladkewics | A Marine with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion completes a successful landing after a static line jump from an MV-22B Osprey above Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue Sept. 25.  

MARINE CORPS AUXILARY LANDING FIELD BOGUE, NC, UNITED STATES

09.25.2013

Story by Pfc. Grace L. Waladkewics 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

MARINE CORPS AUXILIARY LANDING FIELD BOGUE, N.C. - Marines from 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion conducted low-level static-line jumps at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue Sept. 25.

The 13 Marines jumped from 1,500 feet from an MV-22B Osprey with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 from Marine Corps Air Station New River.

The Marines helped one another suit up for flight, and each jumper went through a series of gear and safety checks before being cleared for flight.

“This training is done twice a quarter,” said Staff Sgt. Adam Haley, a team leader with 2nd Recon. “It is sustainment training for our insert capabilities.”

A mix of Marines ranging from those fresh out of jump school to seasoned jumpers all agreed that this type of training is not only exhilarating and gets their adrenaline pumping, but it is a great way to build confident, well-rounded Marines who are ready for any situation.

“This training builds confidence and gives the commanders an alternate way to insert Marines to complete the mission,” said Staff Sgt. Ryan McSorley, the company radio chief with the battalion.

McSorley said this is his first jump with the battalion and he has mixed feelings. He said he was excited and nervous but had confidence in his pre-jump training and said he knows he is well trained.

Marines are required to sit down with the jump masters for pre-jump training prior to conducting live jumps.

During the training Marines learn how to conduct themselves under emergency and hazardous situations, properly perform landings, break falls and exit procedures, conduct mock jumps and go through triple gear checks.

“This training is to enhance the Marine’s skill set,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Harper, who has logged more than 15 jumps. “It is essential for missions and for them to perform their duties with the highest technical and tactical skills possible.”

Jump training is a different, fun way to keep the Marines proficient and help them accomplish their essential tasks within the battalion, said Haley.

This training forces them to pay attention to detail, trust each other and build unit cohesion.

• Date Taken: 09.25.2013
• Date Posted: 10.03.2013 14:48
• Story ID: 114689
• Location: MARINE CORPS AUXILARY LANDING FIELD BOGUE, NC, US