Photos

Lance Cpl. Jonathan C. Elkins, a basic metal worker with Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group, tests a welding torch on Camp Taqaddum. Elkins, a 20-year-old native of Moorehead, Ky., was a part of seven-man team that successfully adapted humvee armor for a TRAM (Tractor, Rubber-tired, Articulated steering, Multipurpose.) The team was made up of Elkins, another welder, and mechanics. They were recognized at a ceremony by Brig. Gen. David G. Reist, 1st MLG?s commanding general, for their up-armament system. They created the system at the request of Col. David M. Richtsmeier, the commanding officer of 1st MLG (FWD). They were awarded several thousand dollars by the Marine Corp Logistics Command?s Beneficial Suggestion Program for the protective system. Awarded were Staff Sgt. Andrew N. Zabel, the project?s team leader, and 27-year-old from Batavia, Ill.; Cpl. James A. Carrillo, 23, from Chicago; Cpl. Kelsey S. Marshall, 23, from Anchorage, Ala.; Cpl. Rogelio De La Graza, 21, from Premont, Texas.; Cpl. Adam L. Schroeder, 22, from Platteville, Wis.; Cpl. Jonathan M. Rakestraw, 22, from Pittsburgh; and Elkins. The Beneficial Suggestion Program, run by the Marine Corps? Logistics Command, is designed to take advantage of the creativity of military and civilian personnel who contribute practical and innovative ideas for improving and maintaining productivity, economy, efficiency, and mission effectiveness for Marine Corps programs and operations.