Marines showcase Corps’ opportunities to midshipmen

Photo By Cpl. Jorden Wells | A midshipman from the United States Naval Academy fires the M240B Machine Gun during the live-fire portion of their training day aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 4, 2015. The midshipmen received instruction and first-hand experience on some of the weapon systems the Marine Corps has to offer as part of a month-long branch specific training event during the summer before their junior year at the USNA. (Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jorden M Wells/Released)  

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

06.10.2015

Story by Cpl. Jorden Wells 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Midshipmen going into their junior year at the United States Naval Academy participated in a live-fire shoot with several different weapons systems at the G-3 range aboard Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 4.

The live-fire shoot was just a portion of what the midshipmen undergo for one month every summer before their junior year at the academy.

While spending a week with the Marine Corps, aside from firing the weapons, the midshipmen participated in the gas chamber, fast roping and other training to get a feel for what life in the Marine Corps would be like.

“We have a group of about 100 midshipmen here with us and our responsibility is to show them what it is like to be a Marine, so they can be well informed about what branch they want to serve with upon graduation,” said 1st Lt. Patrick McCormick, Headquarters and Service company commander with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment.

During their live-fire day, the midshipmen got a chance to fire the M4 Carbine, M203 grenade launcher, M249 Squad Automatic Weapon and the M240B Machine Gun.

“I am still undecided on the path that I want to take in regards to my military career,” said Zach Lonsdale, a midshipman at the Naval Academy. “But having an opportunity like we did today with firing all these weapons really makes me lean toward the Marine Corps side.”

The midshipmen also observed static displays of the .50-caliber machine gun and the MK19 grenade launcher and witnessed the firing of two AT-4 rocket launchers and several rounds from the 60mm and 81mm mortor systems.

“It was a great opportunity to show these midshipmen what the Marine Corps is capable of and what it has to offer to them,” said McCormick. “What we are showing these midshipmen today could very well influence the choice for their future.”

• Date Taken: 06.10.2015
• Date Posted: 06.10.2015 14:20
• Story ID: 166132
• Location: CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US