Credits & Contributors

Featured Contributer

Sgt. John Lawson, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS

Sgt. John Lawson was tardy joining the Marine Corps because he failed the physical at the Military Entrance Processing Station in his teens and again in his 20s. Lawson tried again at 30 and passed, saying "the third time was the charm."

All of Lawson's time in the Corps has been in the reserves, but this is not his first time working on Marines magazine. From 1999 to 2003, Lawson served on the magazine staff and was named Marine Corps Flagship Writer of the Year in 2002.

In his civilian life, Lawson works as a military analyst and contractor. From 1992 to 1996, Lawson worked as a staff reporter for the Tampa Tribune, where his most noteworthy accomplishment was obtaining an exclusive jailhouse interview with a serial killer.

Lawson, now 38, holds a bachelor's degree for a double-major in history and English from Washington & Lee University; a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Maryland; and a master's degree in journalism from the University of Florida.

Featured Contributer

Staff Sgt. Christopher D. Reese, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS

Staff Sgt. Christopher D. Reese entered the Marine Corps Reserves in 1992 after graduating from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. During his first enlistment, Reese worked as a motor transport operator for 2nd Platoon, Truck Company in Ebensburg, Penn. He re-enlisted as a sergeant in 2000 and moved to Quantico, Va., working as a Web developer for the Marine Corps University's College of Continuing Education.

In 2002, Reese joined the 4th Civil Affairs Group and was activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Upon the CAG's redeployment, Reese continued on active duty for several months developing a video that showcased the unit's activities in Kuwait and Iraq.

After returning from Iraq, he produced an exhibition of images that showcased the civil affairs aspect of OIF. This exhibition has traveled across the country for two years and will end in Washington later this year.

Featured Contributer

Sgt. Helen M. Searcy, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS

Sgt. Helen M. Searcy is currently assigned to Headquarters Marine Corps, Division of Public Affairs, as the formal schools manager and training chief. She enlisted in 1999 as a 4641 – combat photographer – and after a brief on-the-job training stint, made the formal switch to combat correspondent in 2005.

"I lat-moved because there are a lot more opportunities in the public affairs field," said Searcy. "Plus, I've always wanted to write, so when the time came, I took a chance and made my move.

Prior to her assignment to HQMC, Searcy served at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif.