Photo By Sgt. Levi Schultz | Staff Sgt. Charles Sandoval, career planner, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, and...... read more read more
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TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - ‘Ready for anything, counting on nothing.’
Unwavering from their motto, the ‘War Dogs’ of 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, commemorated their renowned legacy during the battalion’s 75th anniversary at Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray Field, Jan. 8, 2016.
The battalion held a battle color rededication ceremony in which the unit’s awards were cited and the streamers, representing each award, were attached to the battalion guidon.
“What we are doing today is paying our respects to the men who gave us the legacy that we have now,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Steele, battalion commander, 2/7. “In 75 years, not once has this battalion failed to seize the terrain it was tasked with seizing, not once has it given an inch when it was tasked to defend.”
Numerous 2/7 alumni filled the seats and for many in attendance it brought back memories of what it was like to serve with the battalion.
“It makes me feel proud to come back and see 2/7 again,” said retired Master Gunnery Sgt. Brian Riddle, 2/7 alumni. “There were a lot of units that I served with in my 30 years before I retired but this was one of my favorite units and there is a legacy that I really enjoyed being a part of.”
Once the last streamer was secured to the guidon, Steele delivered a speech on the significance of the ceremony and the unit’s history, directing his final comments at alumni in attendance.
“While I may not know each one of you by name, I feel I do because I know these Marines,” Steele said. “If you think back to your last days with 2/7, the last thing you did was train a private or private first class and taught him what you knew. You taught him things like brotherhood, tactical knowledge, and an absolutely unstoppable will to succeed regardless of circumstance. While I might not know you, I can tell you are still here in your legacy.”
The Marines, sailors and alumni of 2/7 broke bread together at building 1707 during the conclusion of the ceremony. The unit set up various static displays of vehicles including High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles and Amphibious Assault Vehicles.
Meanwhile, Marines performed Marine Corps Martial Arts Program demonstrations and offered the opportunity for guests to practice their aim at the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer.
“I think everything stems [from] our history,” said Sgt. Maj. Gabriel E. Macias, battalion sergeant major, 2/7. “Our legacy has a big bearing on the Marines. It’s very deep in their hearts and their spirits as we look at our past and we build upon it. My goal for 2/7 is for them continue to be able to lead from the front.”
| Date Taken: | 01.08.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 01.13.2016 14:16 |
| Story ID: | 186207 |
| Location: | TWENTYNINE PALMS, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 615 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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