Photo By Cpl. Tyler Barstow | Staff Sgt. Jessie D. Nieves, the platoon sergeant for second platoon, Military Police...... read more read more
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By Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow
1st Marine Logistics Group
CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq - For the first time in more than 200 years, a Marine has extended his enlistment in front of Tun Tavern, the birthplace of the Marine Corps.
But it's not on the sunny streets of Philadelphia; instead, this renewal took place under the blistering Iraqi sun at Camp Taqaddum.
It took a partnership between Navy Seabees and Marines to construct the fully functional career retention specialist building in homage to the icon of Marine Corps history.
"With a partnership like this, is it any wonder that the enemy has no chance out here?" questioned Brig. Gen. Robert R. Ruark, Commanding General 1st Marine Logistics Group, to the crowd who attended the new building's opening and the reenlistment of Staff Sgt. Jessie D. Nieves, the platoon sergeant for Second Platoon, Military Police Company, 1st Supply Battalion, 1st MLG.
"I think it's going to be good," said the 32-year-old from Lakeland, Fla. "It'll inspire (the Marines) having a place that's so historical."
Nieves reenlisted for another five years on top of the ten he has already served. He is now a part of Tun Tavern's new history, being the first of a new breed of Marines to sign up at the landmark in honor of Marines past and present.
"We dedicate this building to all who have gone before and serve now," Ruark said.
The luxuries provided for the Marines that are now serving are intended to entice Marines to take interest in the place and seek a comfortable atmosphere where they can relax, much like the original one.
The original tavern that once stood on Philadelphia's old Water Street is no longer there. The new building at Camp Taqaddum is restoring that piece of history with a few new amenities such as electricity to power the video games and light the pool table.
While it is an honest representation of the old tavern complete with a bar, they will not be serving alcohol, but have included other luxuries allowed in country to help Marines take a break from the stresses of a long deployment.
This new building was built strong by Sailors and Marines and will stand solid, representing the Marine Corps' history stretching from its unique beginnings in a bar in Philadelphia to its current operations in Iraq.
| Date Taken: | 05.15.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 05.15.2008 15:33 |
| Story ID: | 19446 |
| Location: | AL TAQADDUM, IQ |
| Web Views: | 372 |
| Downloads: | 229 |
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