MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII -- Field radio operators and data network specialists with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, tested their communication capabilities in different locations aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 12, 2013.
The training included setting up satellite communications, retransmitting radio messages using different nets, and communicating with different stations around base. The Marines also placed a strong emphasis on teaching new Marines and practical applications.
“Our main goal with this training is to be proficient,” said Sgt. Michael Linde, a field radio operator with 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines, and Pensacola, Fla., native. “This is how we stay on top of our game and effectively train our new guys. In a real situation where communication is needed, something might go wrong and we might have to troubleshoot — because of that we really need to know the ins-and-outs of our job and be prepared for any situation.”
Solar panels were set up to keep equipment charged throughout the day while Marines set up high-frequency antennas and satellites in order to communicate with other stations through different terrain.
“Where you are dictates a lot when it comes to communication — you have to factor in the terrain and different environments,” said Cpl. Brian Prins, a field radio operator with 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines, and native of Grand Rapids, Mich. “We want to be profi cient with all of our gear and this is how we test it out and practice with it. More importantly though, we need to know how to adapt to certain situations and environments, with mountains surrounding us, this is a great place to start.”
When asked what he learned throughout the training day, Pfc. Eli DeograciaTorres, field radio operator with 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines, and native of College Park, Md., said, “I’m defi nitely a hands-on learner — visuals don’t really work for me. So being out here and going through different classes, I’m able to go over some things that weren’t really covered in detail at my military occupational school.”
Though the training was basic, many Marines like DeograciaTorres took full advantage of the opportunity to get hands on and learn more about their job of installing, connecting, and operating equipment that the Marine Corps relies on every day.
“I heard a quote once from a Marine that said, ‘Amateurs practice until they can get it right, but professionals practice until they can’t get it wrong,’” Prins said. “I feel like that quote goes perfectly with this training. Though it’s simple, and sometimes repetitive, it goes a long way in helping us excel as specialists in our job and as Marines in general.”