Col. James Hanlon, Combat Center chief of staff, speaks to Marines who are new to the Combat Center about some of the activities that are available for them while stationed here during The Commanding General’s Welcome Aboard Brief, hosted by Marine Corps Community Services Jan. 15, 2014 at the Combat Center's Sunset Cinema.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Charles Santamaria

Combat Center welcomes new Marines

15 Jan 2014 | Lance Cpl. Charles J. Santamaria Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- The Combat Center Commanding General’s Welcome Aboard Brief was hosted by Marine Corps Community Services at the base theater, Jan. 15, 2014. The brief informed Marines who are new to the base of its history and available activities, facilities and programs that they can benefit from while stationed here.

The information given during the presentation is designed to help with the transition process between duty stations by giving Marines foresight on what the base and its surrounding area are like.

“Marines benefit from this brief because there are a lot of programs that they aren’t aware of,” said Jesse Silvas, relocation assistance specialist, Visitors Center. “It’s our job to make sure that all of the information and services we offer are made available to new Marines and sailors who arrive on base.”

The orientation informed Marines of the variety of activities they could participate in such as the Joshua Tree National Park, Lake Havasu and Big Bear ski resorts.

“I really like to travel and go off base,” said Lance Cpl. Hannah Carlson, combat videographer, Combat Camera. “Knowing that there are all these different activities that I can go do makes the base feel more welcoming. I’m looking forward to the different things I’ll be able to do while I’m here.”

Retired Marines who were in attendance stated that an orientation like this one could’ve helped them when they arrived to an unfamiliar base.

“When I was going through my first check-in process as a young Marine, I had to find out where everything was on my own,” Silvas said. “Looking back, I could’ve used the information given today because new Marines don’t have to be lost anymore. Everything is provided for them and this brief is meant to make their lives a little more enjoyable while they’re here.”

From personal development to intramural sports, the Combat Center has something for everyone to participate in and enjoy, according to Lt. Col. Steve deLazaro, assistant chief of staff, MCCS.

“The brief lets them know what’s out there,” Silvas said. “We may be in the middle of nowhere, but we’re surrounded by everything and we can point them in the right direction.”

For more information on programs, events, and activities, call the Visitor’s Assistance Center at 830-4028.