Reservist stays in fight through fourth deployment

[Vulture6]

From time to time, many young men and women come to this forum to explore their options about going in the Marine Corps reserves while going to college. If they dig a little through the threads below, they'll find reservists (and their families) pay as heavy a price as do our active duty Marines and their families. So, if anyone is wondering if they'll get called up while in the reserves, read on. - V


Reservist stays in fight through fourth deployment
Submitted by: II Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD)

Story by Lance Cpl. Josh Cox


Sergeant Daniel C. Duff, radio operator, Team 3, Detachment 2, 5th Civil Affairs Group, 2nd Marine Division, troubleshoots communication issues and ensures the safety of his fellow Marines by providing security during missions aimed to make Iraq a better place for its citizens. The Osbourn Park High School graduate has been on a total of four deployments since joining the Corps, and is currently serving his second tour in Iraq. Photo by: Lance Cpl. Josh Cox


CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq (Aug. 27, 2005) -- Although he may be a radio operator by trade, one Marine reservist deployed in support of operations here helps the Corps strengthen relations with Iraqis throughout Al Anbar province.

Sergeant Daniel C. Duff, radio operator, Team 3, Detachment 2, 5th Civil Affairs Group, 2nd Marine Division, troubleshoots communication issues and ensures the safety of his fellow Marines by providing security during missions aimed to make Iraq a better place for its citizens.

The Manassas, Va., native, who is on his second enlistment in the Marine Corps, works with the 5th CAG carrying out projects to promote growth and stability of the Iraqi community.

“Basically, we get to work with them, and let them know we’re here to help,” said Duff.

The 25-year-old said he served four years active duty in the Corps before re-enlisting in the Marine Reserve, and decided to stay in the military because he likes to have his boots on the ground.

“I like being on the ground rather than behind a desk,” he said. “I’m an active person, that’s why I can’t sit in one place for a long time.”

During convoys with the 5th CAG, Duff keeps a close eye on traffic, helps navigate tactical vehicles, warns civilian vehicles that come too close to the convoy and ensures communication links are up and running.

Duff, who is no stranger to deployments, has served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The Osbourn Park High School graduate has been on a total of four deployments since joining the Corps, and is currently serving his second tour in Iraq.

“He has a vast amount of experience as a communicator, so he’s our go-to man when it comes to communication issues. I draw greatly upon his abilities as an NCO to lead and take a mission and act upon it and act on commander’s intent; so he’s an asset all around,” said Maj. Christopher E. Phelps, Team 3 commander.

As Duff’s fourth deployment comes to an end, he reflects on why the mission of the 5th CAG is so important.

“It feels good to know we made progress in the country,” he said. “It’s a big thing; we helped. Civil Affairs isn’t what I signed up to do, but it’s a job that I was willing to do.”

Duff is not the only person in his family who has claimed the title of “Marine.”

His grandfather, father, and mother served in the Marine Corps, and his brother is currently assigned to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Duff was married late last year, and plans to take a trip to Jamaica with his wife when he returns to the United States. When not deployed, Duff serves duties in his Baltimore-based reserve unit and works as a sales associate at a toy store.

“I would like to make it a career,” said Duff, referring to the Marine Corps.

Duff also has hopes to attend college and earn a degree when he finishes his deployment here.

[AmericanGirl]

My hat is off to this guy... amazing!

[Born to kill]

OOHRAH RESERVISTS!!!!!!!!!!!

Who said we were only good one weekend a month?

YUT!

[SpongeJuan]

Semper Sometimes? Probably not this guy. No more tampon for him.