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'We got it right' Commandant discusses OIF, future of the Corps

Marine Corps News

May 15, 2003

Story by Sgt. A.C. Strong

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif.(May 13, 2003) -- Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Michael Hagee, and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Alford McMichael, visited Marine Corps Air Station Miramar May 13.

Gen. Hagee, addressed a standing-room only crowd in the Station Theater, many of whom just returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom with the greeting, "How are y'all doing?"

"The Navy and Marine Corps team have performed magnificently in Iraq," said Gen. Hagee.

After the crowd quieted, he specifically mentioned the Expeditionary Airfield Capability and the plans to have, by September, the "re-set of the force."

After thanking the reserve Marines, the commandant then went on to discuss safety in the Marine Corps.

According to Gen. Hagee, during the 6 months of combined buildup and action in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the number of deaths and injuries decreased overall because, "when you have a mission, you are focused."

He went on to say; "It would be absolutely tragic for a Marine to survive - and returning home, is killed on Interstate 5."

Both Sgt. Maj. McMichael and Gen. Hagee thanked spouses and family members

McMichael, during his brief remarks, detailed the active partnership of continuing education, families and taking care of the individual Marine.

"The ultimate Quality of Life is bringing home our Marines safely," he said, piggy-backing on the importance Gen. Hagee placed on safety.

Following the remarks, there was a brief question and answer session.

Staff Sgt. Everett J. Vaughn, Marine Medium Helicopter 166 asked about the possibility of the Department of Defense having the go ahead to "go after" individual terrorists.

"We have the authority right now to go after them wherever they are," said Gen. Hagee.

In response to numerous questions about the cost of living in the San Diego area, the sergeant major responded that Department of Defense continues to work toward "zero out-of-pocket expenses" by considering re-evaluating basic allowance for housing, on a case-by-case basis.