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Ordnance drills for success, VMA-211 Marines adapting to ship exercises

USMC News

Story Identification Number: 200337132511
Story by Sgt. Molly C. King

ABOARD THE USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD-6)(March 6, 2003) -- ABOARD THE USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD-6) -- Ordnance Marines aboard USS Bonhomme Richard began loading and offloading drills with BDU-45 practice bombs Feb. 13. The Marines, part of Marine Aircraft Group-13 from Yuma, Ariz., are part of a seven-ship amphibious task force deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

According to Gunnery Sgt. Michael E. Brown, Staff Non-commissioned Officer in charge of Marine Attack Squadron-211 Ordnance, the Marines are using their muscle and teamwork to adapt to ship life easily.

"We brought an experienced crew with us so the effects of adjusting have been miniscule," said Brown.

Brown said that the machinery usually used to lift the bombs ashore is not available on ship. Instead, the human strength of Marines is used. The inert, practice bombs weigh in at 500 pounds, the same as the MK-82 series bombs, which they simulate.

In addition to the weight of the bombs, the Marines have to become accustomed to doing their job on the sometimes precariously swaying ship, while maintaining safety at all times.

"We always take the same safety precautions with the inert bombs as we do with live bombs," said Pfc. Heather Cosby, VMA-211 Ordnance Marine.

This deployment is the first time Cosby has loaded bombs aboard a ship, but she, along with the other new Marines, are learning aptly.

"It's different from being in Yuma, but we're adjusting quickly," said Cosby. "The NCOs and Staff NCOs are always making sure we're squared away and that we know what we're doing."

Brown said this teamwork has been integral in making the transition to ship life smooth sailing for his Marines.

The distinction between working at home in Yuma and training on the ship is that there are a lot more people to work with and around, he said.

There are aircraft from four separate units aboard in addition to the Navy personnel already working on the flight deck. Flight operations are continuous, making safety paramount.

"You have to watch out for others around you," emphasized Brown.

Brown said he is happy with the performance of his Marines so far.

"We've been building a teamwork attitude," said Brown, "and, we have come together as a team."