MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Marines and sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion 11, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, participated in a 3-mile hike with a full combat load here, April 1.
“The purpose [of the hike] was to increase camaraderie, esprit de corps and combat fitness,” said Lt. Col. Andrew J. Bergen, commanding officer, CLB-11, CLR-17, 1st MLG.
Events such as the battalion hike do more than make Marines stronger, they provide an opportunity for Marines to experience hardships and grow from them. The hike was also a chance to build unit cohesion.
“We all did a pretty good job,” said Lance Cpl. Brian J. Delasbour, field wireman, Communications Detachment, CLB-11, CLR-17, 1st MLG. “When you turn around and look at your platoon and all the paineveryone is going through, everyone is still pushing, it’s motivating.”
CLB-11 is deploying with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit later this year. During their deployment, they will travel aboard U.S. Navy amphibious ships around the world serving as a force in readiness.
“Like any military training, shared, tough, realistic training builds camaradie,” said Bergen, 39, from Elmwood Park, N.J.
As well as training for their rapidly approaching deployment, the Marines are excited about their travels around the world.
“The whole command is excited, and the battalion is well-postured to complete training and deploy,” said Bergen.