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Infantry platoon provides security for 3rdMAW gear

Marine Corps News

Release Date: 4/7/2004

Story by Sgt. J.L. Zimmer III

AL TAQQADUM, Iraq (April 7, 2004) -- The Marines of 1st platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, conducted two nights of security [VSJ1]for a convoy of Marines and Soldiers bringing 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing gear from here to Al Asad, April 4 through 6.

For the Marines of 1st platoon, this is just one of many convoy security escorts that they will participate in. The platoon is part of an infantry company that has been tasked with external and convoy security for 3rd MAW and its supporting elements.

Sgt. Brody Clayton, a 31-year-old Sylva, N.C., native and 1st squad leader, 1st platoon, has provided security for two convoys and understands the necessity of his platoon's role.

"Some of the units just do not have the assets to provide their own security," he said. "We are a necessary evil."

One Marine, a motor transportation operator for Marine Wing Support Squadron 273, has had the opportunity to travel on three separate convoys secured by L. Co. since he's arrived in Iraq in late February.

"I feel safer having the infantry escort us on these convoys," said Sgt. Patrick J. Hill, a 25-year-old Decatur, Ga., native. "I can concentrate on my job as a driver."

Hill continued by saying that although he is a driver he can help the Marines by locating the enemy, improvised explosive devices, or spotting enemy fire.

"It is easier to concentrate on driving when I know someone is going to engage the enemy while we are on the move," he said. "I know if they need my help, I can be there to help them."

According to Staff. Sgt. Shilo Garner, platoon sergeant for 1st platoon, providing convoy security is not the normal duty of an infantry company, but L. Co. possesses some additional expertise for convoy security.

"Some of the units that are here do not have the infantry skills such as providing a quick reaction force or actively seeking a threat that has just engaged your convoy," said Garner, a 33-year-old Waxhaw, N.C., native. "In a serious incident where someone in the convoy is injured, most people do not think about locating the threat and neutralizing it."

Army 1stLt. Jessica E. Shafer, a 28-year-old Muncie, Ind., native was in charge of the soldiers driving the 3rd MAW gear and appreciated the help with the security.

"The Marines did not have the transportation assets needed to transport all the gear and we did not have the weapons capability to provide our own security," said the Army's 208 transportation and palletized load systems officer. "This whole trip worked out for the best."

Garner had a positive outlook regarding the convoys and his unit's role providing security for 3rd MAW.

"I think this is awesome," he said. "It is a chance to get out and see the countryside and the people."