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    Springfield native re-enlists during deployment

    Springfield native re-enlists during deployment

    Courtesy Photo | Cpl. Donovan M. Hanson (right) , a field radio operator with SP-MAGTF Africa 14, and...... read more read more

    SIGONELLA, ITALY

    09.24.2014

    Story by Cpl. Shawn Valosin 

    U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Europe and Africa     

    SIGONELLA, Italy - Corporal Donovan M. Hanson, a field radio operator with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Africa 14, and a Springfield, Ore., native raised his right hand, symbolizing the significance of his decision to continue serving in the United States Marine Corps for four more years, Sept. 20, 2014.

    Upon enlisting in the Marine Corps, Marines usually sign a contract for four years; some Marines chose to get out after their original contract. Departing Marines utilize training, discipline and experiences learned in the Marine Corps to help them transition to the civilian work force and help to make good shepherds in their respective local communities. Others, who continue to maintain the standards set by the Marine Corps, may choose to re-enlist for another four years of service.

    Hanson was part of a small team of Marines and Sailors who spent a week conducting a Professional Military Education or “PME” session learning about the unique strategic significance the Lombardi Castle, located in Enna, Siciliy, served during the Byzantine Empire. The Marines and Sailors received a battlefield tour of the castle and the surrounding area. During this PME, Hanson had the opportunity to re-enlist at a place of historic significance in the presence of Marines and Sailors from SP-MAGTF Africa.

    “Corporal Hanson’s hard work, dedication and commitment to fellow Marines and Sailors is remarkable,” said 1st lt. James K. Vieregge, the communications officer with SP-MAGTF Africa. “His positive attitude and optimism creates an environment filled with camaraderie; ultimately, he helps draw fellow Marines and Sailors to work as a team.”

    Deployed with SP-MAGTF Africa, Hanson is primarily responsible for ensuring theater security cooperation teams are properly trained and equipped with communication tools for their engagements in Africa.

    “Serving in the military is a family tradition and I want to pursue this as a career,” said Hanson. “There is so much in the Marine Corps I have left to see and experience; this first enlistment was like the prologue to a good book … I still have plenty of chapters to flip through before I close the book.”

    With this type of attitude, it is clear to say that the Marines and Sailors of SP-MAGTF Africa are proud to have Hanson be a part of the team.

    SP-MAGTF Africa strengthens U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command’s ability to assist partner nations in addressing their security challenges. Marines and Sailors with SP-MAGTF Africa conduct theater security cooperation, military-to-military engagements and are trained to provide contingency support to crisis response.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 09.24.2014
    Date Posted: 09.24.2014 10:13
    Story ID: 143104
    Location: SIGONELLA, IT
    Hometown: EUGENE, OR, US
    Hometown: SPRINGFIELD, OR, US

    Web Views: 103
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN