10/31/2014 -- CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Marines and Sailors from throughout the MLG recently attended the Marine Corps Installations-West Equal Opportunity Representative Course aboard Camp Pendleton. The 5-day course, held Oct. 27-31, gave participants an opportunity to learn about the different aspects of the Marine Corps' Equal Opportunity Program and provided insight on some of the challenges they might face in their newest responsibility.
Gunnery Sgt. Cassius Cardio, 1st MLG Equal Opportunity Advisor and lead instructor for the training, explained the EO program is essential to building unit cohesion and accomplishing the mission by treating all Marines and Sailors with dignity and respect and giving them the "equal opportunity" to compete with their peers regardless of their age, race, gender, color, religion and national origin.
"Sometimes, we as leaders allow our biases and personal value system to affect the decisions we make, they can affect the career and welfare of our Marines and Sailors," said Cardio.
"The EO program ensures the maximum utilization of the Marine Corps and Navy's most important assets - our Marines and Sailors," said Cardio.
Of the 44 participants, 12 will be supporting MLG Marines in ensuring their EO needs are met.
"The EOR is a direct link to the unit's morale, esprit de corps and camaraderie," said Gunnery Sgt. Joseph F. Kasmarski III, EOR for Ammunition Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 15.
He hasn't had to address any incidents as of yet, but felt it was important to educate Marines within his command about the importance of the EOR.
"I like to have a close working relationship with all my Marines. I sit down and talk with them, advise them on career decisions and life decisions, but I also wanted to be there for my Marines to talk to about unfavorable situations and have the tools and knowledge to lead them in the right direction."