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Tarawa awaits first time sea-based Marines

Marine Corps News

Release Date: 11/19/2003

Story by Pfc. Bernadette L. Ainsworth

ABOARD USS HOPPER(Nov. 19, 2003) -- Fifteen Camp Smith Marines and three from Camp Lejeune deployed Nov. 13 for Tarawa aboard the USS Hopper for the 60th anniversary ceremony of the landing at Tarawa.

For most of these Marines, this is their first deployment aboard a naval vessel. Life aboard ship for the first time can be an everlasting experience for Marines.

"Every Marine should experience a deployment aboard a ship," said Lance Cpl. Brian Daniels, color guard rifleman, 2nd Marine Division. "We are part of the Navy, and being aboard ship follows those Naval traditions."

"I've always dreamed of going on a ship," said Pfc. Robert Baker, a warehouse clerk and part of the rifle detail with Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific. "Everyone should go on a ship if they get the chance. Marines tend to stereotype Sailors. Being on a ship gives us a chance to find out if those stereotypes aren't true."

Days can be long for Marines on ship, but the monotony is broken up by various daily activities.

"We practice everyday for the ceremony, participate in (physical training), square away our uniforms, have classes on Marine Corps knowledge and history and basically get ready for the ceremony," said Daniels.

After their daily routine, the Marines are secured before chow every evening. During their off time, there are several amenities the Hopper has to offer.

There are two computer rooms, one with Internet access and one for computer games. Two libraries offer a wide selection of paperback books, along with several televisions with VHS and DVD players.

"On my free time I watch movies, write e-mail home and play board games," said Lance Cpl. Scott Gibson, U.S. MarForPac manpower statistician clerk and color guard rifleman.

With daily routines to keep them busy and active and a ceremony awaiting them at Tarawa, the Marines that are experiencing a sea deployment for the first time, this should prove to be a memorable experience.