HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Lance Cpl. Raymund Calvar, a Stamford, Conn., native and a turret gunner with Support Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), has a big responsibility.
Serving his first deployment in southwest Afghanistan, the Connecticut Marine is the eyes and ears of his vehicle.
Originally a supply Marine stationed in Okinawa, Japan, Calvar trained as an assistant gunner with a MK-19 heavy machinegun prior to deploying. Once in Afghanistan he became a turret gunner with Security Platoon and is responsible for protecting convoys that build roads throughout the region.
From his vantage point on top of his mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle, Calvar scans the road ahead for improvised explosive devices, natural obstacles and insurgent threats. He also facilitates communication with other vehicles and nearby Afghans.
The roads 9th ESB has created in Helmand province provide improved infrastructure and quality of life in Afghanistan. Thanks to the vigilant eyes of Calvar, they are much safer as well.