CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Drill is one of many traditions that set the Marine Corps apart from other military branches. The art of drill is instilled in Marines from day one in basic training to instill discipline and make Marines work as a team to accomplish goals.
To continue this tradition, Marines with 1st Supply Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, conducted a quarterly drill competition aboard Camp Pendleton, Calif., Oct. 18, 2013.
Four drill platoons from Ammunition Co., Supply Co., Headquarters and Service Co. and Medical and Logistics Co. competed in the event.
The competition is designed to build confidence in drill and brotherhood among junior Marines, said Sgt. Maj. Jeffery A. Young, sergeant major of 1st Supply Bn., CLR-15, 1st MLG.
Each platoon consisted of junior Marines who volunteered countless hours to prepare for the drill meet.
“There’s always competition,” said Lance Cpl. David J. Debuse, an ammunition technician with Ammunition Co. “I love drill. I’ve loved drill ever since I knew what drill was. It’s great to see everyone come out and support us during events like this.”
Marines with Ammunition Co. took first place, regaining the coveted trophy from Supply Co. The winner was recognized by three instructors scoring each platoon’s performance on bearing, proper technique and correct execution of commands.
“This is one of the things Marines like to brag about,” said Young, a native of Baltimore. “It’s just something we do quarterly that boosts morale among the Marines.”
The participants gained greater esprit de corps in their units and sharpened basic drill skills, said Young.
“Coming out and competing against the other companies we work with in front of everyone just felt good,” said Debuse, a Chicago native. “I feel like we set a tone today that just couldn’t be broken.”