Photo By Sgt. Megan Sindelar | Marines with 9th Communications Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force, stand in...... read more read more
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CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Marine satellite communication operators use state-of-the-art equipment to provide mission essential contact between Marines and affords Marines here a means to keep in touch with friends and family back home.
The transmission platoon with 9th Communications Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force is responsible for keeping communications working 24 hours a day for Marines operating at Camp Leatherneck and all outlying areas within Helmand province.
The job of the transmission platoon Marines is to keep the link with satellites, which is fast-paced and ever-changing. If a connection is lost, the Marines work around the clock, well past their shifts, until the problem is resolved.
The rapid rate of growing technology opens doors for the equipment to be upgraded.
"We are constantly receiving new gear and being sent to new schools to learn about the equipment that allows for faster and more effective communications," said Sgt. Shawn T. Levesque, a satellite communications operator with 9th Comm. Bn.
The Marines are able and equipped to set up shop anywhere, including the barren deserts of Afghanistan.
"We are able to go to a place with nothing and provide all communications required to complete the mission," said Gunnery Sgt. Joseph C. Merola, satellite chief with 9th Comm. Bn.
They provide Marines with secure Internet, phones and video-conferencing, pushing their services out to the outlying areas as well as pushing Marines out as duty experts in support of communication systems. This allows for an easier means to stay connected and complete the Marine Corps mission.
Not only do the satellite Marines provide tactical communications within the Corps, they also provide Marines with the luxury of calling and emailing their friends and families back home.
"I really enjoy my job," says Levesque, "I know the services I provide assist fellow Marines within Helmand province and gives them an opportunity to keep in touch with loved ones."
| Date Taken: | 04.13.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 04.15.2010 11:08 |
| Story ID: | 48180 |
| Location: | AFGHANISTAN, AF |
| Web Views: | 392 |
| Downloads: | 296 |
This work, Satellite Marines Provide Mission Essential Support in Helmand Province, by Sgt Megan Sindelar, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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