Battalion Commander's Message to the families-Jan '08

Battalion Commander’s Message
LtCol F.W. Charlonis

Well, we are now in the final stages of our time in 29 Palms. The Marines and Sailors have returned from leave and are now in the final preparations before heading to Iraq.

The past several months have seen the transformation of the Marines and Sailors of 2/24 from a good Battalion to an excellent Battalion. On December 20th we completed Mojave Viper 03-08, our mission rehearsal exercise. I am very proud of these fine young men, they have worked extremely hard and by all measures their performance was equal to, and in many cases exceeded that of an active duty Battalion.

In Iraq, we face a situation that is very different from the last time this Battalion deployed. Right now there is significantly less violence than there has been in the past. This is a transitional period in Iraq. Many of those who once opposed us have joined us to rid Iraq of those seeking to undermine the legitimate government. Our efforts will be focused on developing the Iraqi Security forces, providing a secure environment for local economic development and allowing the political process to take root. Your Marines and Sailors are well trained to accomplish this mission. We will be out amongst the people, because the best way to defeat an insurgency is to get close to the people and isolate the people from the terrorists.

I know many of you are worried about the months ahead. Rest assured your Marines and Sailors are well led, well trained and have the best equipment the Marine Corps can provide. I will say that the Marines and Sailors of the Mayhem Battalion are by far the best I have had the pleasure to lead in my 22 years in the Marines Corps.

Once again I thank you for your support. Your Marines are doing well, they are working hard and rest assured they will be ready for any mission. God Bless and Semper Fi!