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'223 deploys with 26th MEU(SOC)

USMC News

Story Identification Number: 200331311651
Story by Pvt. Rocco DeFilippis

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C.(March 13, 2003) -- Marines from Marine Attack Squadron 223 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 departed the air station March 5 in support of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

For at least the next eight months, the Bulldogs and Dragons will support the 26th MEU with flight operations and air support. "We've done everything we can to prepare," said Capt. Andrew, an AV-8B Harrier pilot with VMA-223. "The Marines are fired up and ready to do their job."

The squadrons have been preparing for this deployment for the past six months with numerous training work-ups.

"Unlike a MEU, where they do one or two work-ups, we've done five," said Gunnery Sgt. Franklin, maintenance control chief with VMA-223, and a native of Moundsvile, W.V. "These Marines are all ready to go where they are told and do what they're told. That's the Marine mindset."

"Every single one of my Marines is a volunteer. This is something they signed up to do, and they're excited about it," Conner said.

With the excitement and confidence levels high, the Marines are focused on the task at hand.

"In light of spending eight months on a ship, my Marines are working very hard and doing an awesome job to get us ready," McVicker said.

Even though this may be the first deployment for many of the Marines in both squadrons, they carry on the tradition of taking the fight to any clime and place.

"The deployment didn't really hit me until I said goodbye to my mom," said Lance Cpl. Jason, an aviation technician with VMA-223, and a Kaneohe, Hawaii native. "But, everyone is looking out for each other. We want everyone to come back safe."

One of the unique characteristics of the Marine Corps is esprit de corps, or brotherhood. Camaraderie becomes more evident in these times of uncertainty.

"After September 11, I chose to come back into the Marine Corps after being out for four months," said Sgt. William, a support equipment technician, with MALS-14, and an Akron, Ohio native. "This is something I've been waiting for, and I'm ready to answer the call of duty for my country."