Combat corporals graduate leadership specific course

Courtesy Photo | CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Dec. 10, 2005) -- The class stands for a group photograph here Dec. 10. More than 30 Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) graduated Corporal's Course class 01-06 here Dec. 10. This two-week course consisted of extensive training to better prepare Marines as noncommissioned officers and future leaders in the Corps.  

FALLUJAH, IRAQ

12.13.2005

Courtesy Story

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CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Dec. 11, 2005) " More than 30 Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 8, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) graduated Corporal's Course class 01-06 here Dec. 10.

This two-week course consisted of extensive training to better prepare Marines as non-commissioned officers and future leaders of the Corps.

The course consisted of marching drill, physical fitness tests, leadership classes, tactical scenarios and more in order to help guide the Marines, said Lance Cpl. Edgar Villafane, an administrative clerk and course graduate.

Many of the Marines enjoyed the course and felt it gave them the necessary skills to lead Marines.

"Being around all the corporals from different companies was motivating," said Villafane. "It taught us to make sure our Marines are taken care of and our peers as well."

Many of the Marines felt the most difficult part was balancing their schedule, and that it brought the best out of their character.

"The time management was the hardest part," the Caguas, Puerto Rico native added. "You always needed to prepare for every class and test."

According to the leaders of the battalion this training is vital to molding future leaders of the Marine Corps.

"Corporals are our first leadership rank and the backbone of our Corps," said Gunnery Sgt. Pamela J. Talluto, Headquarters Company first sergeant and staff academy staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge. "With that it is imperative that we make the time to educate and train them so they can continue to keep our Corps strong, provide sound leadership and positively carry on our traditions."

Even the Marines themselves see how the training is important and are ready to apply it in their leadership tactics.

"This type of training helps you, it doesn't matter if you stay in the Marine Corps or get out and become a civilian," Villifane said. "It teaches you to improve your leadership all around."

In the end, the Marines were excited to finally graduate and walk across the stage to receive their diploma.

"It was a very excellent experience," Villifane said. "It will all help me to excel as a person, as a Marine, and for all future endeavors"

The class had one high-honor graduate and four other honor graduates who graduated at the top of these distinguished Marines.

The honor graduate was Cpl. Mayra Garcia, 2nd MLG (Fwd), who works as the Group Combined Administration Center non-commissioned officer-in-charge.

The dedication of the course instructors is instrumental to the success of the students and watching the performance and professional growth of the junior Marines also serves as a means of reinforcing the drive of the instructors.

"I couldn't be happier with the results," Talluto said. "They all seemed to be even more motivated about the Corps and the impact their rank really has."

• Date Taken: 12.13.2005
• Date Posted: 12.13.2005 15:55
• Story ID: 4063
• Location: FALLUJAH, IQ