CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines with Landing Support Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 27, 2nd Marine Logistics Group attended a hands-on readiness exercise for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear warfare aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 28.
“My Marines and I can show a hundred different [presentations], but it doesn't sink into the Marines until they get a chance to play with the gear and see how it all works,” explained Sgt. Steven D. Potts, a CBRN defense specialist and the lead instructor of the course.
The LS Co. Marines learned about the different types of CBRN agents and the signs and symptoms to watch for. They also learned and practiced immediate actions for an attack by properly decontaminating themselves with rapid skin decontamination lotion and the M291 skin decontamination kit.
“We wanted to demonstrate for [them] what to do in a real world CBRN attack and to also explain to them the potential CBRN hazards that exist out in the world,” said Potts, a Dayton, Ohio, native.
The training also included learning about the different levels of Mission-Oriented Protective Posture, how and when to exchange MOPP gear, and how to function for an extended period of time while wearing MOPP gear.
“I feel the training went very well,” said Potts. “The Marines gave us their undivided attention and even came up to my Marines and I after the classes to ask more questions.”
The training concluded with learning how to decontaminate vehicles by using a pressure washer.
“Most Marines, including myself, are hands-on learners, and the training just doesn't sink in until they get that chance to use it,” Potts concluded.