HONOLULU -- Marines assigned to Marine Corps Base Hawaii showed their support to the Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and the community with static displays during “Scouting in Hawaii’s” 100th anniversary Makahiki Show at the Ala Moana Regional Park, April 24.
More than 30 Boy Scout troops and 40 Cub Scout packs explored the event, filled with both scouting and military attractions.
Cmdr. Richard A. Goodwin Jr., the Aloha Military Council liaison for the Makahiki and troop leader for Boy Scout Troop 180, said a lot of the things he teaches in scouting, such as leadership, self-reliance and discipline also, lend well to success in the military.
Goodwin also said he’s spoken to many military members who were scouts growing up or are currently scout leaders.
“I wanted to give an opportunity for the military to have a show of force and show what our capabilities are, and how [they tie] into the scouting,” Goodwin said. “It’s synergy. The two combine into something better.”
Scouts saw MCB Hawaii equipment from 3rd Marine Regiment, Combat Logistics Battalion 3 and Headquarters Battalion Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
“We’re here to showcase what the Marine Corps’ capabilities are as far as our weapons systems,” said Gunnery Sgt. Pel Jaerith, company maintenance chief, Combat Assault Company. “It’s going good, and the kids are interested. They’re having fun getting behind the rifles, donning all the gear we use and realizing it’s pretty heavy.”
Jaerith, a Long Beach, Calif. native, said the Marines had a good time talking to the children, with parents also enjoying the experience. He said it’s a privilege to be at the event and support the Boy Scouts.
“They’ve done a lot for America and keeping the kids out of trouble. We’re here to support that effort as well,” Jaerith said. “We’re here to enjoy the day.”
While troop members crawled through the Humvees or looked down the sights of the rifles on exhibit, the Marines were all smiles as they explained how things worked.
“I liked how I get to meet new people,” said Lance Cpl. Jonathon N. Bird, an amphibious assault vehicle mechanic, CAC. “I learned things about the Boy Scouts, and I like teaching people about the Marine Corps.”
Bird, hailing from Indiahoma, Okla., said he spent most of the morning explaining how Marines use their equipment and what they do. He thought it was funny that many of the participants knew a lot of the weapons from the popular video game, “Call of Duty.” He also said many scouts were interested in what the Marines do.
Many of them were excited because they hadn’t seen a real RCO [rifle combat optic] or modular tactical vests.
Marines with CLB-3 amped up the crowds with their heavy equipment displays and the EOD display blew away the competition, with their bomb suits and robots.
Goodwin jokingly said the dental exhibit was a little intimidated when they got placed next to EOD.
There were also displays present from the Army, Navy and Coast Guard, all contributing to the day.
Goodwin said there were several stations in the park that utilized military skills, which can be used to earn scouting merit badges.
“The things we try to develop in the boys are going to make them better soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines,” Goodwin said. “It’s been a real blessing to work with the kids and get them out here and watch the excitement on their faces.”
Goodwin said one boy in his troop, who just achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, said his goal in life was to become a Marine sniper. He also said a lot of the younger children may not understand what the units do, but thought they were cool.
“It lets [the community] know we’re here, and we’re supporting them,” Goodwin said. “A lot of time we’re taken for granted, but there’s a lot of military on this island. I want to get as many different facets of that here.”
Goodwin said he was thankful for all the supporting units that contributed to the event and made it a success.
“I think we had a great showing today,” he said.
“I think it’s a great way to get us recognized and show them what we do,” Goodwin said.