CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Adjusting to the unique Marine Corps “lifestyle” can be made easier with a little “insight” from experienced active-duty personnel and family members, while “networking” is a good way to share “knowledge” and “skills” pertaining to the Marine Corps.

The L.I.N.K.S. course is developed by spouses to help fellow spouses, children and extended family understand and adapt to the unique military life.

“I see brand new spouses who come in and get knowledge about the Marine Corps to help their new family,” said Mary Henson, L.I.N.K.S. trainer, Marine Corps Community Services, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

Although the course provides basic information about adapting to the unique lifestyle, one woman’s L.I.N.K.S. experience didn’t end after attending the class as a new military wife.

Fourteen years later, Lori Meade attended L.I.N.K.S. to brush up on the military knowledge and find out what has changed.

“For those without military history, it’s a great introduction to what Marine Corps life is going to be,” said Meade. “I’ve been through a lot of experiences with the Marines, but I still feel like I learned a lot in this class.”

Two general classes for spouses are held monthly. Every semester a L.I.N.K.S. class for extended family is held. During the summer months, two children’s classes and a teen class are held.

Unit-specific classes for Marines and their spouses can be arranged by request as well.

“Anyone associated with the Marine Corps, L.I.N.K.S. is the class for you,” said Henson.

For more information, call 760-726-2335, or visit www.mccscp.com/links.

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