MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - -- The commander of Marine Forces Reserve visited reserve Marines conducting pre-deployment training here Aug. 22.
Lt. Gen. Jack W. Bergman toured the improvised explosive device range and explosive ordnance disposal building to learn about the changes being made to keep up with the war in Iraq. A significant portion of the tour was also dedicated to Bergman’s observation and interaction with the Marines of 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, and 3rd Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment.
“It’s motivating to have him here,” said Pvt. Gary L. Reed, a machinegunner for 1/24. “I feel confident in my training and my job; I think I am ready for Iraq. Having a general here just reinforces that for me and gives me more confidence.”
More experienced Marines who have already done a tour in Iraq also felt the visit boosted morale.
“I think it’s really good for the junior Marines to see Lt. Gen. Bergman,” said Sgt. William W. Ormerod, a section leader for the battalion. “It’s an indicator to the troops that higher ranking officials are looking at us. Sometimes, they feel as though they are getting pushed to the side, but this shows that is not the case.”
Ormerod noticed a difference in the type and quantity of training being conducted by his unit.
“Last time I went to Iraq, we trained at home for two weeks, and then, we were off to Iraq,” he said. “We were not shipped to a similar environment and taught the things they are teaching us, like how to look for improvised explosive devices.”
As a noncommissioned officer, Ormerod felt the new training gave his Marines more faith in their skills.
“These Marines have a big advantage now, and the training gives them more confidence,” said Ormerod.
Bergman also noted the benefits of the more realistic training at MCAGCC.
“Twentynine Palms is about as close as you can get to being in Iraq, without actually going there,” said Bergman. “The climate and topography are the same, and they are integrating other things into the environment, such as using Iraqi street signs.”
Bergman said the visit strengthened his faith that the training reflected the dynamic adaptations needed for these Marines deployment to Iraq.
“Each time I go back, Iraq is different,” he said. “The Iraqi forces play an increasing role, and the tactics, techniques and procedures are always changing. This reinforced in me that the training is rapidly changing as necessary to reflect updated enemy tactics,” Bergman said.
Regardless of increased quality of training or knowledge from past experiences, there are many feelings about deploying.
“I think anyone knowing they are going to Iraq is going to be anxious,” said Maj. Christopher A. Kolomjec, the personnel officer for the battalion. “Courage comes from rising above your fears, though, not just having them.”
Kolomjec noted that the commander’s visit helps the reserve forces handle both the “regular” anxiety of combat and leaving their civilian life behind to serve.
“To be called up is a sacrifice for reservists; they have other lives outside of the Marine Corps. They need to see the support of higher command,” he said.