HQBN connects with ‘next generation’

Courtesy Photo | Cadet Logan Crow, a 7th grader in the California Cadet Corps at Twentynine Palms Junior High School, reports to Cpl. Oscar Martinez, a wireman with G-6, during the practical application portion of a class on basic drill movements conducted at the school March 2, 2011. Marines from HQBN worked with cadets during the hour-long class, teaching basic drill movements and uniform inspection techniques. (Marine photo/Diane Dusen)  

TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

03.11.2011

Courtesy Story

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center

By Diane Dusen

For decades, Marines have passed their knowledge and experience from one generation to the next. Older, more seasoned Marines teach and mentor younger Marines as they make their own way through the ranks.

Headquarters Battalion Marines went one step further, reaching out to yet an even younger generation, by participating in the CACC class conducted at Twentynine Palms Junior High School in Twentynine Palms, Calif., March 2, 2011.

The CACC was founded in April 1911 when the California High School Cadet Act created a statewide organization for all secondary schools. Its original purpose was to prepare commissioned officers for service in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today’s mission emphasizes quality educational and leadership development aimed at preparing students for success in college and the work force.

The CACC class at Twentynine Palms Junior High School, an elective class available to both seventh and eighth grade students, has been offered at the school more than 30 years. Science and personal finance instructor Ted Luke remembers the class being part of the curriculum when he was a student at the school in 1983.

“I wished I’d have taken the class then,” said Luke, who is temporarily filling in as the instructor for CACC the class’ regular instructor, Capt. William Morton.

The curriculum emphasizes instruction in patriotism, proper care and wear of the uniform, marching, survival skills and navigation. The HQBN Marines joined the class to teach basic drill and uniform inspection techniques.

“It’s a ridiculously good feeling working with kids,” said Lance Cpl. Aaron Piggee, an administration clerk with the Installation Personnel Administration Center.

Marines first demonstrated a few basic drill movements, beginning with the positions of “attention,” “at ease” and “parade rest.” Students also learned facing movements and “fallout.”

Each Marine then worked with a small group of students for more individualized instruction.

Before the end of class, the cadets played a quick game of “knock out,” a game where competitors perform various facing movements. Cadets were “knocked out,” or eliminated, for incorrect movements, such as facing in the wrong direction, starting the movement too early or not moving at all. The game continued until there was only one student left.

“You just have to remain calm and think before you move,” said eighth grader Lauryn Cabanlit after outlasting her classmates in the game.

The hour-long class ended with handshakes and high-fives as the cadets thanked the Marines for their time. Both cadets and Marines said they are looking forward to next time.

• Date Taken: 03.11.2011
• Date Posted: 03.11.2011 22:29
• Story ID: 66901
• Location: TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA, US