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Pendleton News

Corporals get down and dirty

Lance Cpl. Stephanie Ingersoll

A pulse of white haze was visible every few moments as they breathed the cold morning air. Sixty-one Marines wearing freshly pressed Service “B” uniforms stood at the position of attention. Class 05-07 was separated into its four platoons, each covered and aligned standing side-by-side.

Uniform inspections such as these are just one aspect of the Camp Pendleton Corporals Course.

The course, in the 21 Area, is the Corporals Course for all Marine Corps installations west of the Mississippi. It’s designed to provide new noncommissioned officers with the confidence, knowledge and skills necessary to better lead their Marines.

“We’re not here to make them corporals,” said Staff Sgt. Daniel E. Fortner, the Corporals Course chief instructor. “They’re already corporals. We’re here to make them better leaders.”

During the 15-training-day program, the Marines are taught and challenged with close order drill, sword manual, military justice, physical training, how to counsel Marines, troop leading steps and leadership roles, principles and traits.

Several guest speakers enhanced the program by visiting the Marines to talk about the meaning of being an NCO. The Marines also prepare and undergo inspections as well as do a motivational run.

After the Service “B” inspection, 05-07 changed into utilities and had a period of instruction about Leave and Earnings Statements followed by a motivation run in combat boots and utility trousers. The four Corporals Course platoons each had rifles, a water jug and a Marine on a stretcher to carry the length of the circuit.

“Being here is motivating,” said Cpl. Shawn M. Hawkins after the motivation run.

The 23-year-old machine gunner with Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Regiment, said he was glad he was attending the course.

“I have a lot of knowledge that I didn’t have before,” said Hawkins from Hayward, Calif. “The class teaches you how to be a better leader for your Marines.”

The Scout