Photo By Lance Cpl. Tucker Mocan | U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Cody Overacker, a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines,...... read more read more
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“I should be setting the example in and out of the uniform. It is everything,” said Sgt. Cody Overacker, a squad leader and M3A1 Multi-Role Anti-Armor Anti-Personnel Weapon System gunner with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines. “In uniform, I stay hungry and strive to improve every single day. I’m constantly studying our adversaries and their capabilities to ensure we’re prepared.”
During the live-fire range, the Marines trained to increase proficiency with their M27 Infantry Automatic Rifles during the day. After the range had concluded, Overacker taught several classes on proper use of the M3A1 Multi-Role Anti-Armor Anti-Personnel Weapon System, including tactical positioning of the weapon system, and how to properly communicate when employing it, ensuring his Marines are prepared to employ the MAAWS effectively in combat.
“A junior Marine is going to be trained hard, and he is going to be trained to a standard,” said Overacker. “My biggest thing is having intensity, caring about what you do, and pushing yourself past the standard. The standard is just the lowest acceptable point.”
While the Marines were only required to complete the conduct of the M27 range, Overacker remained hungry, and he challenged his section to think critically and creatively about employment of the MAAWS. They would continue to train with the weapon system for several hours after the range went cold and the sun had gone down, ensuring they are prepared not just to fire the weapon system, but to employ it effectively in combat. His focus towards his squad of Marines always being combat ready have shaped the section into one known for its proficiency and cohesion.
“He is very motivating,” said Lance Cpl. Zackary Gutierrez, a rifleman also with 2/7. “His direct involvement up at the company and battalion levels to apply his real-world knowledge make our unit better.”
For the NCOs of 2/7, readiness is not a talking point, it is daily action to remain accountable. On ranges like the one at Suseong-Ri, adaptability and lethality are forged in repetition, correction, and leadership by example.
| Date Taken: | 03.08.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 03.10.2026 22:14 |
| Story ID: | 559666 |
| Location: | KR |
| Web Views: | 13 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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