MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- The Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills program invited children aboard the Combat Center to learn more about Marine life during a mock combined-arms exercise at Felix Field Nov. 26, 2013.
The event, organized by L.I.N.K.S., allowed children to obtain a basic understanding of their parent’s daily routine. The event started with the children gathering to witness a color guard comprised of Marines with Headquarters Battalion presenting colors and learning the history of the Marines’ Hymn, making note of their significance.
The group then learned the basics of Marine Corps drill and ceremony. Staff Sgt. Arold Sylvain, motor transport operations chief, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3, and a former drill instructor, led the children in basic drill movements.
Afterwards, the children got a look at a military working dog demonstration led by Sgt. Lee Bartholomew, military working dog handler, Provost Marshal’s Office. The children cheered and shouted as Cchaz, a military working dog, navigated obstacles and demonstrated his powerful bite on Cpl. John Dolezal, military working dog handler, PMO, who was wearing a bite suit.
“Today was such a fun experience,” said Cole Cloud, 7, son of Sgt. Sean Cloud, instructor, Marine Corps-Communications-Electronics School. “My favorite part of the day was watching Cchaz. I learned not to mess with him.”
The newfound, hands-on learning experience left children excited knowing they had briefly stepped into the boots of the Marines in their lives.
“Marines work hard, and they love to do what they do,” said Amber Bilderain, trainer, L.I.N.K.S. To learn more about L.I.N.K.S., visit www.mccs29palms.com