CLB-6 learns leadership on the job
AL-QAIM, Iraq (June 22, 2008) – Marines with Transportation Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 1st Marine Logistics Group, conducted a re-supply mission to al-Qaim, June 22.
The convoy of 53 vehicles ventured through the night to deliver food, water, fuel and force protection materials to support 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.
“This is a five-hour drive,” said Sgt. Deryl B. Stockton, assistant convoy commander for TS Co. “But, all these supplies will help get the mission accomplished and keep Marines safe.”
The leadership and responsibility at the lowest level possible is essential to mission accomplishment. Transportation Support Co. is a perfect example of this kind of leadership.
“Every truck has at least a lance corporal, sometimes a private in charge of that vehicle,” said Stockton, from Dallas. “They have to be responsible enough to know exactly what they are doing on the convoy.”
Lance Cpl. Michael D. Ramirez a Logistics Vehicle System operator with TS Co., said they regularly make re-supply runs to al-Qaim.
“This is one of the most Northern camps we support,” said Ramirez, from El Paso, Texas. “We get to help the Marines out there and that’s a good feeling.”
Ramirez said he is proud to call himself a Marine and to have so much responsibility delivering supplies for his fellow Marines in the area.
“What other job can you have, where you have the opportunity to support Marines on the front lines?” said Ramirez, as he drove the dark road. “I get to be a part of history and make a difference in Iraq.”
Ramirez said their convoys cover a lot more distance than the convoys in the Southern part of the area of operations. With this distance, being accountable for gear and vehicle maintenance is crucial for a flawless trip. These are just some of the responsibilities that Marines have on any convoy.
“If you treat every mission as if it were your last and do everything you are supposed to the right way, you won’t have anything to worry about,” Ramirez said.
“I try to pass on to my Marines the leadership traits I learn along the way,” Stockton said.
As TS Co. continues to apply their leadership skills, they strive to make a difference for the units they support.
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