Combat Logistics Battalion 6 will be home for Christmas

Photo By Cpl. Sullivan Laramie | Officers and staff-noncommissioned officers with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 2nd Marine Logistics Group serve dinner to the unit's servicemembers and families during CLB-6's Christmas party aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 17, 2012. The command used the occasion as an opportunity to give the families of the battalion a night where they could relax.  

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

12.19.2012

Story by Pfc. Sullivan Laramie 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 2nd Marine Logistics Group had anything but a silent night during the unit’s Christmas party here, Dec. 17.

Approximately 475 Marines, sailors and family members celebrated the holidays together this year at the Marston Pavilion aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., where they packed the Tinian Ballroom and crowded the tables.

“When you are active duty, you never really know if you will be spending the next holiday with your families or not,” said Mary C. Mathews, the unit’s family readiness officer.

The unit is scheduled to be deployed next year during the holiday season.

The Christmas season is about more than family and friends, however. It’s also about giving, and that was exactly what the battalion’s command did.

While the crowd mingled, the officers and staff-noncommissioned officers made their way to the food line – but not to be fed. They would fill the plates this Christmas.

“We give them a nice, decent meal, so they don’t have to go home and cook, and they get to spend some time with their families,” said Lt. Col. Brian W. Mullery, the commanding officer of CLB-6. “It kind of sets the stage prior to them going on Christmas leave, and then after that, we’re going to start our pre-deployment training, and I think that steps it off in the right direction.”

Events at the party included a tacky sweater contest, door prizes ranging from electronics to basketballs and footballs, a visit from “Gunny Claus” for the children, and a game of musical chairs, where participants received sweets and treats.

“I got to see a lot of camaraderie between the guys,” said Pfc. Mackenzie L. Grady, a motor vehicle operator with the battalion. “It’s just nice to see everybody talking and getting along. It’s nice to get away from the work area.”

Grady said he plans to remain in North Carolina and volunteer this Christmas instead of returning home.

Last year, the members of CLB-6 were deployed during the holidays, so this Christmas will be a little more special for them.

• Date Taken: 12.19.2012
• Date Posted: 12.19.2012 15:49
• Story ID: 99556
• Location: CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US