MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- It is a hot spring day, May 29, 2015, and a tug-of-war was one of the many battles the Workhorses of Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 are facing off in the field of battle. But it will be a friendly fight – the Marines are competing against each other in a squadron field meet.
Marines of all ranks from the squadron tested their strength and endurance in separate events, including a one-mile relay race, sandbag tossing, flag football, tire flipping and a barbecue.
“It is for all our Marines to get together and enjoy the day,” said Master Sgt. Fernando Cruz Jr., the squadron operations chief. “It reinforces teamwork within the units, builds confidence, and gives a sense of pride to the Marines participating.”
During the games, the Marines went head-to-head. They relied on teammates for speed during competitive relay races and for endurance as they tackled challenging obstacle courses during the event.
“Being able to get away from the workplace for a day in the field today allows Marines of all ranks, ethnicity and genders to interact with each other in an environment outside of work,” said Cruz.
According to Cruz, he has witnessed the squadron come together during recent training in the Weapons and Tactics Instructor course and supports unification of the Marines through events outside of their work schedules.
“It’s beneficial to let the Marines relax for a while and reward them for all the hard work from WTI,” said Sgt. Maj. Jermaine Jenkins. “It’s good to have a day for the Marines to decompress.”
According to Jenkins, the field meet will be held every six months as a new tradition.
“Having competition within the squadron lets everyone interact in a positive and unifying manner,” said Jenkins. “Camaraderie and competition are in every Marine’s heart.”