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Photo by Sgt. Izzel P. Sanchez

Marines gain confidence, camaraderie through training

16 May 2007 | Pfc. Ethan Hoaldridge U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific

Leaping over seven-foot walls, climbing 20-foot ropes and swimming hundreds of meters in the ocean were all part of a days work for U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific Marines, May 16.

Marines from MARFORPAC ran the traditional Marine Corps obstacle course and then moved to the beach for more “fun” in the sun as a part of their battalion physical training.

“We were able to get some good physical training, but it was great for building camaraderie among the Marines as well,” said Sgt. Alex Velazquez, MARFORPAC training noncommissioned officer. “We’ll definitely try and schedule more events like this in the future, when the rest of the command returns from Thailand.”

The Marines were challenged physically and mentally during the training, because it required technique and teamwork.

“It was a great confidence builder to finish the O-Course,” said Pfc. Patrick Bennett, MARFORPAC postal administration clerk. “The calisthenics in the ocean were tough, and the spirit of competition made it fun. I definitely want to do this again.”

Marines at MARFORPAC don’t always get to leave the office and participate in events like this, because of mission requirements.

“We know it can be hard to release the Marines from their daily responsibilities at work,” said Velazquez. “But it’s worth it, because the camaraderie that forms and the physical challenges they overcome build their confidence and they become better Marines for it.”