MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Family and friends participated in 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion’s Jane Wayne Day to experience a day in the life of the Marines they love, April 20.
The day served as a unique learning experience for the family and friends in attendance, giving them a brief look into the daily life of their Marines.
“I had a great time today,” said Jane Wayne Day guest 17-year-old James Owen. “I leave for boot camp in August, so this was an awesome experience for me, seeing where Marines work and what they do.”
The guests were divided into groups, with a platoon sergeant leading each group.
“One thing I kept hearing from all the families was that they were really surprised, and happy with all the interaction with Marines.” said Sgt. Maj. Al Ruiz, battalion sergeant major, 3rd AABn. “I think having that sergeant there to help walk them through all that was going on was beneficial for all the guests.”
The day’s events began with a ride on the amphibious assault vehicles from Del Mar to Red Beach. After arriving at the beach Marines of 3rd Tracks demonstrated a beach assault, showcasing the amphibious capabilities of the AAVs
After the beach assault demonstration, the group moved to a firing range to shoot 9 mm pistols and M-4 assault rifles. They also witnessed a live-fire demonstration of .50-caliber machine guns and M-249 light machine guns.
To give friends and family a better taste of Marine Corps life, they were given Meals Ready to Eat.
“My favorite part of today was seeing the machine gun demonstrations and getting to eat the MREs,” James said.
Marines also gave their family and friends a demonstration on how the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program is put into practice.
“Everybody loved it,” said Ruiz. “One thing I kept hearing, just over and over again was how much they enjoyed their group leaders being there to answer all of their questions.”