Mark Wahlberg visits troops in Afghanistan

Photo By Sgt. Shannon Yount | More than 100 anxious service members waited in line to meet and take photos with actor Mark Wahlberg during his visit at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Dec. 19. Wahlberg shook hands and took pictures with the troops, while thanking them for their service.  

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

12.19.2010

Story by Lance Cpl. Shannon Yount 

1st Marine Logistics Group

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Actor Mark Wahlberg visited service members of 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Dec. 19.

During Wahlberg’s visit, he shook hands and took pictures with service members while thanking them for their service. More than 100 anxious fans waited in line to meet Wahlberg.

“I was very excited,” said Maj. Rhonda Martin, assistant chief of staff, G-1, Headquarters, 1st MLG (FWD). “He is one of my favorite actors; I really like watching his movies.”

He seemed very genuine and took the time to shake the hands of the Marines and talk to them, said Martin.

“He made sure we knew that he appreciated our service,” said Martin, a native of Trotwood, Ohio. “It’s nice to hear it; it makes us feel better knowing we are not forgotten.”

“It’s the least I can do to thank you for what you do,” said Wahlberg to one of the Marines.

Along with meeting service members, Wahlberg promoted his latest movie “The Fighter,” based on the true story of Massachusetts boxer Micky Ward, which co-starred Christian Bale.

Hundreds of service members watched his new movie from a big screen inside a hangar on Camp Leatherneck.

“Everyone was excited to go see the movie,” said Martin. “They were all pumped to see the movie after his visit.”

After the movie, each service member walked away with gift cards, courtesy of Wahlberg.

“I think it was a Christmas present for the service members,” she said. “I think everyone enjoyed the visit and was appreciative for him to come out here and show support.”

• Date Taken: 12.19.2010
• Date Posted: 12.19.2010 11:43
• Story ID: 62281
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF