"I think all Marines should go through this training because of how much this stuff is being used in countries where we are trying to keep peace," said Lance Cpl. James Murphy, of Warren, Mass., an artilleryman with BLT 1/6.
The culminating event of the two-week course is a two-day training exercise that pits the students against unruly mobs (played by other Marines) at Camp Lejeune's urban combat training facility, also known as 'combat town.'
"The STX was the best part of the training," said Lance Cpl. Allen S. Lewis, of Pensacola, Florida, a rifleman serving with C Co., BLT 1/6. "The OpFor [opposing force] did a great job making the scenario realistic. They gave us hassle after hassle, making it very difficult for us to maneuver. They made sure we knew what we were doing."
For others, it was the first part of the course that was the most memorable. On day one, they were taught how to use Oleoresin Capsicum, which is the technical name for 'pepper spray.' After being instructed on how to use the chemical agent, the Marines themselves were sprayed to enjoy the full impact.
"It was the worst experience of my life," said Lance Cpl. Charles G. Poag, of Asheville, N.C., a combat cameraman serving with the MEU Command Element. "You'd have to threaten me with NJP [non-judicial punishment] to make me go through that again. It'll definitely take the fight out of someone."
And that is what the MEU is counting on.
For more information on the organization, mission, and status of the 22d MEU, visit the unit's web site at <FONT color=#330066>www.22meu.usmc.mil.
