Faces in the Ranks

Face in the Ranks highlights Marines, and those who serve with them, around the world. Though their ages, ranks and military occupations differ, they all do their part in the Global War on Terror. These are but five of the hundreds of thousands of Marines – active and reserve – who are the foundation of our Corps. In this issue we recognize a combat lithographer, a trumpet player, a motor transportation operator, a radio chief and a platoon commander.

Ellington has been stationed aboard Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan,for three months and is already making an impact with the community. Ellington has started a break-dancing class for local children. "I do it for the happiness of knowing that someone else wants to learn something that I taught," said Ellington. "Passing it on keeps it alive. Hopefully they will pass it on to others."

His first time crossing the border from Kuwait to Iraq was a memorable experience. "I remember the exact spot where we crossed the border," Dees said. "I was scared, nervous, excited, anxious ... you name it." Now on his third deployment to Iraq, Dees is proud that he was able to help Iraq and the Iraqi people. "One day when this country is a better place I can look back and know I busted my ass helping to make that happen," Dees said.

During the battle of Fallujah, Marines fired on a building filled with insurgents – raining down rounds from a MK-19 grenade launcher. During the firefight, Morris was wounded. His left forearm was hit with shrapnel, but he refused to leave his Marines in the field. "I joined to go to combat and to go to war and all that," said Morris "Fallujah was one of the biggest battles of the war and I was glad to be there."

O'Neill is currently serving in Iraq with Camp Blue Diamond's quick reaction force. Her unit's mission is to protect the camp and provide security for the commanding general and his staff. "We participated in security and stability operations training well before we came out here," said O'Neill. "One of the best things was the Enhanced Marksmanship Program where we learned to shoot in close quarters, combat style." O'Neill plans to become an elementary school teacher after serving in the Marine Corps.

Baeza initially joined the Marines with an open contract to work in any military occupational field. His first job was as a bulk-fuel specialist, but he wanted a job more closely related to his hobby — computers. Baeza eventually became involved in satellite communications, combining work and play in one job. Leading Marines and passing sound advice is what Baeza looks forward to as he makes the Corps his career. "Just stay motivated," said Baeza. "That's what's going to carry you through. Keep a positive outlook and keep pushing forward; that will get you to success."