MWSS-374’s last hike with leaders

Twentynine Palms -- Marine Wing Support Squadron 374 conducted a 15 km hike from their squadron’s headquarters building to Camp Wilson May 6, 2016.

“We’re having a change of command for our senior leadership soon,” said Cpl. Dirk Munroe, administrative clerk, MWSS-374. “This is a final ‘oorah’ for the sergeant major and the commanding officer.”

Marines are known as the nation’s force in readiness. According to Lt. Col. Steven Murphy, commanding officer, MWSS-374, learning to adapt and overcome is one of the basic skills every Marine should have, no matter the position in which they serve.

“It doesn’t matter what your job is, because we’ve got everyone from heavy equipment operators, communications Marines and even firefighters,” Murphy said. “Marines have to be able to bring the fight when necessary.”

The squadron also took this opportunity to recognize two of its Marines, Capt. Elaine E. Stolhammer, logistics officer, and Gunnery Sgt. Steven J. Sullivan, logistics chief, MWSS-374, received Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medals for their superior performance and dedication to their respective duties.

After the awards, MWSS-374 took the opportunity to sit down with one another and bond over a shared meal at Camp Wilson before returning to Mainside.

“I will never have a leader like Lt. Col. Murphy,” said Sgt. Maj. Chasen E. Getty, squadron sergeant major, MWSS-374. “He has been not only a good commanding officer but also a great friend “That’s one of the things I love about the Marine Corps. You build lifetime bonds.”