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Marines complete mission at airbase in Southwest Asia

  • Published
  • By Capt. Larry van der Oord
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  The final rotation of Marines from the Arrival/Departure Airfield Control Group, also known as the Red Patcher's, were recognized during a ceremony Dec. 10 to mark the completion of the unit's mission at the airbase from which they operated here.

Sgt. Chance Larsen, Sgt. Brian Panton, Sgt. Joshua Anderson and Cpl. Zane Dunn have worked in conjunction with Air Force counterparts from the 387th Air Expeditionary Group since their deployment began in August. The Red Patcher's were responsible for tracking Marine Corps assets arriving and departing through the base's aerial port of debarkation.

"We knew coming out here that we were going to be the last rotation of Marines to work at this airbase in support of OIF," said Sergeant Larsen, senior Marine of the unit. "It feels good to be part of history and we are glad to close out the mission."

Outside of their round-the-clock logistics duties, the Marines also supported the base's Patient Administration Tracking Team to ensure the dignified transfer of human remains. Sergeant Larsen and his fellow Marines took charge of the dignified transfer ceremonies and trained fellow servicemembers needed to put together the six-member ceremony teams.

"Through the combined efforts of the Marines, the 387th AEG, the 54th Quartermaster Company along with my staff, we have been able to consistently provide dignified and respectful treatment for all fallen U.S. and coalition service member's remains which have transited the APOD for the past seven years," said Navy Chaplain (Lt.) Michael O'Bannon, PATT officer-in-charge. "The one thing I will remember most about these Marines is their commitment to duty."

Sergeant Larsen made a point to acknowledge the support provided by his Air Force hosts at the 387th AEG.

"They provided us with everything we needed to do our mission and more," he said. "We were guests in their house and they made us feel like we were a part of the family. The Air Force played a key part in our success."

Col. Randy Davis, 387th Air Expeditionary Group commander, commended the unit for a job well done.

"The Marine Red Patcher's have been an integral part of the team here for several years and we are sorry to see them depart," said Colonel Davis. "From providing outstanding leadership for the dignified transfer program to quality of life projects, they have been great joint partners and we wish them smooth sailing as they relocate to their next duty station."