MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 took part in a seven-mile hike around the air station Sept. 28.
The “hump”, as it’s called by Marines, promoted unit morale and is part of a combat-readiness campaign, according to Sgt. Maj. James C. Kirkland, MALS-12’s senior enlisted Marine and native of Des Moines, Iowa.
Kirkland’s early-morning evolution required the Marines and sailors to don loaded patrol packs and reflective belts, weave through the northern facilities of the air station to the halfway point at the Crossroads Mall, and head toward the flight line.
“After seven miles, we’re going to end up at the (Marine Fighter Attack Squadron) 212 hangar,” said Lance Cpl. Cory M. Noe, MALS-12 inventory maintenance readiness manager and native of Lenoir City, Tenn. “This is awesome physical training, and I’m excited to participate in what we have planned next,” he added.
Upon arrival at the VMFA-212 hangar here, the squadron partook in a warrior’s breakfast to celebrate the completion of the hump.
“Walking through the flight line at sunrise is pretty motivating,” said Sgt. John R. Bussell, MALS-12 aviation navigational systems technician and native of Jacksonville, Fla. “Having the entire squadron out here early in the morning with a warrior’s breakfast really encourages unit cohesion.”
This hump is one episode of Kirkland’s long-standing initiative to promote a combat mindset. In recent weeks, the unit has participated in squad challenges, obstacle courses and motivational runs.
“The commandant is always saying that he wants to make sure everyone will get a chance to get in the fight,” said Kirkland. “I believe that every Marine will be in a fight at one point in his life. The point of this training is to prepare them for that moment.”