BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. - Ten Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit took to the snowy hilltops to snow board during a Single Marine Program Bear Mountain trip Feb. 12.
For a discounted price of $40, the Marines received lessons, rented gear, an all day lift ticket and transportation to and from the mountain.
“I think the trip went well,” said Jimi Shive, an SMP manager. “It’s important that the Marines have things to do to keep them entertained, it also helps keep the morale up.”
The mountain spans three peaks over 8,000 feet and more than 50 trails between Big Bear and Snow Summit with trails for every skill level.
“The rate was excellent, you can’t beat that,” said Cpl. Arturo Baca, an administrative clerk with the unit. “I went up to the hardest slopes today, it was difficult, but I made it out.”
Baca, a Dallas native, tried his skill at snow boarding for the first time during the trip. He attended a two-hour lesson to become familiar with the board and slopes of the mountain before heading out on his own.
“I plan on attending more SMP events that do not interfere with the day-to-day training with my unit,” Baca added.
Currently, the 11th MEU is participating in Exercise Iron Fist, a bilateral training event with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force.
While taking a break from the icy mountain, the Marines were able to enjoy chilled drinks, barbecued burgers and live music from J. Cole and Far East Movement, who performed their popular single “Like a G6.”
“I hope those who attended today go back and tell their friends and let them know what the [SMP] has to offer,” Shive said.
For additional information on SMP events, visit www.mccscp.com or contact a unit SMP representative.