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Top Marines visit service members at Camp Eggers

Photo By Chief Petty Officer Shawn Graham | Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James T. Conway and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps...... read more read more

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.13.2008

Story by Chief Petty Officer Shawn Graham

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

By Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn D. Graham
Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Marine's top officer and enlisted leader visited the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines of Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan, Kabul, Aug 13, 2008. Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James Conway and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Carlton Kent toured the camp and conducted a town hall meeting with the service members stationed at Camp Eggers.

"It takes perseverance and patience in order to attain progress," Conway said. "Things can turn around in amazing ways with courage, determination and discipline."

Throughout his 38-year career, Conway served in every officer leadership position, from rifle platoon leader and company commander to his current position as Commandant of the Marine Corps.

"It is inspiring to meet the leaders of your organization," said Cpl. Gilfred Curley, an administrative assistant. "Seeing Sgt. Maj. Kent was especially important for me. I met him last year, and afterwards that meeting played a part in my decision to reenlist."

"He is definitely someone that has been in our shoes. They care about Marines," said Curley.

Kent said he was impressed by the tenacity all the services show, especially the courage of those on the frontlines.

"You are all doing great things on behalf of your nation," said Kent. "Retired Marines are especially proud of you. Every time I'm out and about they tell me so."

"The Marines of today are living up to the legacy of all the warriors that came before you."

During the town hall meeting, Conway took the opportunity to reenlist Gunnery Sgt. Arnold Towle, a CSTC-A mentor who works with the Afghan National Army Air Corps.

"It was a distinct honor," said Towle. "It's not often that you are sworn back in by the commandant."

Conway and Kent answered questions that ranged from promotion to deployment issues.

"It's a morale booster for the service members here," said Cpl. Joe Maldonado, a supply clerk. "It's always good for troops to see their top leaders. It is their job to make sure they are getting correct information from our soldiers, to make correct decisions that affect them."