Oct2001

On October 25th, 2001, I had the honor of returning to Camp Pendleton amidst the high security, of which I last saw upon our return to base after the Gulf War.

I was first met by Major Tom Protzeller, the Battalion Executive Officer. Maj. Protzeller was the Company Commander of 'Charlie' Company who my section of LAV-ATs were attached to during the Ground portion of the Gulf War. With him came Master Gunnery Sergeant Mussleman, the Battalion Master Gunner.

My wife and I toured the ramp, checked out the maintenance bays, the vehicles parked on the ramp (my old LAV-AT, 521839 was on a CAX at 29 Palms), and much more. I was able to pay my respects to our fallen brothers at the new memorial set up outside the Battalion Command Post.

The following are pictures taken during my 'tour'. Pictures with a 'Blue' border, are thumbnails, just click on them and they will open full size in a new window.

1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion Colors	Battle Streamers earned by 1st Light Armored Infantry Battalion during the Gulf War.
"New" Memorial for our fallen Brothers.	Major Tom Protzeller, 1st LAR Bn, XO and myself on the 'Ramp'. The new maintenance facility in background for 4th LAR Bn
The 'FOX' NBC Detection Vehicle.	Major Tom Protzeller, 1st LAR Bn. XO and myself discussing the finer points of the LAV-AT.
LAV-25 with Turret removed. These guys totally remove the turrets when they do the maintenance. These are the same LAVs that we used. They currently are 17 years old, and through the SLEP (Service Life Extention Program) they expect another _______ years out of them, slotted for replacement in 2025 I believe.	Maj. Protzeller showing me the turret from the previous picture.

I had the privilege of playing withI.S.M.A.T. This system uses a three screens spanning about 30+ feet, to simulate all sorts of combat situations. It allows you to engage targets using all weapons organic to the Marine rifle squad. It uses compressed air to give simulated recoil and automatic action. I was able to 'fire the M-16A2, M-9 and as seen here the M-249 SAW on full auto! It also allows the use of TOWs and 81mm Mortar.

No trip through Southern California would be complete with out a trip to MCRD, San Diego. We watched a Recruit Graduation on Friday October 26, 2001. Here are a few images to stir your memories.