Photo By Sgt. Eduardo Delatorre | U.S. Marines conduct a movement to an Army CH-47F Chinook, with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, from Stockton, Calif., during a Cold Weather Field Exercise at Fort Hunter-Liggett, Calif. on Jan. 9th, 2026. Marines assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 23, 4th Marine Logistics Group conducted an aerial insert with support from U.S. Army Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, from Stockton, Calif. during a platoon-level defense training by delivering Marines and crew-served weapons directly into the training ground. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Eduardo Delatorre) see less
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FORT HUNTER LIGGETT, Calif. — U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 23, 4th Marine Logistics Battalion, prepare packs, shoulder them and step off into a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook, with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment (General Support Aviation Battalion) from Stockton, Calif., flew into the cold, and tested their endurance and capabilities. Physical fitness remains a principal constant across the Marine Corps, sustained not only during drills, but also in everyday life.
For Marines assigned to CLB-23, a Marine Corps Reserve unit, maintaining fitness carries added importance. Unlike their active-duty counterparts, Marines in the reserve balance civilian careers and family life with military readiness, often training together only one weekend a month and during annual training periods.
“We don’t have the luxury of time,” said Maj. Michel Hughey, Maintenance Service Company Commander, “that means physically demanding training has to be intentional and efficient.”
During recent training at Fort Hunter Liggett, the Marines conducted long hikes, and strenuous activities putting their bodies to the test in less-than-ideal conditions. The events emphasized endurance, strength and resilience, traits that are critical in expeditionary environments where logistics units may operate alongside infantry forces.
For Marines in the reserve, staying fit outside of drill weekends requires personal discipline. Marines are expected to meet the same fitness standards as active-duty Marines, despite having fewer opportunities to train together as a unit.
“Physical Fitness and Combat fitness tests are a great start,” said Sgt. Jeffrey White, a food service specialist with CLB-23, “but any physical activity that puts stress on the body under load helps with field operations.”
Leaders within the battalion emphasize that fitness is not just about passing tests but about building confidence and trust within the unit. Marines who are physically prepared are better able to endure long movements, carry heavy equipment and remain mentally sharp under pressure.
“It’s not always possible to throw a pack on a hike but you still need to simulate that stress,” White said.
The emphasis on fitness also supports the Marine Corps’ broader readiness goals. As a logistics battalion, CLB-23 may be tasked with supporting operations in austere locations, where Marines must be capable of rapidly establishing supply points, moving equipment and adapting to changing conditions.
As CLB-23 continues to train across diverse environments, leaders say the commitment to physical fitness remains a shared responsibility one that ensures reservist Marines are always ready to answer the nation’s call.
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