CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- What began as a routine training evolution for Combat Logistics Battalion 8 ended as a substantial money-saving venture for the Marine Corps as a whole.
In addition to the obvious training value, a 1,150-mile round-trip long-range convoy from Camp Lejeune to Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Ga., was able to net 2nd Marine Logistics Group more than $10,000 in delivery savings.
More than $800,000 in mission-essential gear, to be distributed throughout II Marine Expeditionary Force, was backhauled through internal resources, vice the alternative of having the equipment shipped to the unit via government-contracted assets. Through the latter option, the Marine Corps would accrue additional freight and fuel costs to be paid out of operational funds.
Marine Corps Logistics Command furnished the surplus gear at no cost.
The budget-conscious force saw the convoy as the perfect opportunity to do right by the taxpayers’ dollars, noted Master Sgt. Keesha Davis, the G-4 Supply chief for 2nd MLG.
“We wanted to piggyback with them and see what kind of money we could save while also testing our materiel distribution operations,” said Davis, of Sumter, S.C.
“It was a true coordinated effort between G-4, Logistics Command in Albany and other units,” she said.
Gunnery Sgt. Terry Shepherd, the assistant G-4 supply chief for 2nd MLG, explained all of the parts and equipment brought back are each essential to the daily operations of the Marines here. Items including headlamps and oil filters – or Stock Listing 3 gear, as they are referred to in Marine Corps vernacular – ensure each tactical vehicle is safe and properly equipped.
“Looking at the budget, with the restraints and cuts, this mission was a great success,” said Shepherd, a native of Atlanta. “This gear will keep the warfighter moving and at minimal cost.
“The Marine Corps scored big with this one.”
The first of its kind in recent history, missions like these may prove critical in eliminating dependence on contractors in some cases. Considering the benefits of pairing the training of Marines and conservation of funds, Davis said 2nd MLG will continue to pursue these types of operations in the future when practical.