Cpl. Kertis Grimmer, left, recieves a graduation certificate aboard USS Makin Island here Jan. 18. Grimmer serves with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit's Battalion Landing Team 3/1. The unit is currently deployed aboard the amphibious assault ship as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (MKIARG), which is a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force. The group is also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Photo by Cpl. Gene Allen Ainsworth III

Marines, sailors attend leadership course

12 Jan 2012 | Sgt. Elyssa Quesada 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit

ARABIAN SEA -- Forty corporals serving with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and two sailors serving with USS Makin Island (LHD 8) completed two weeks of formal noncommissioned officer training aboard the amphibious assault ship here Jan. 15.

Corporals Course 307-12 classes - mostly conducted from late evenings into early mornings - included student-led physical training and practical application.

"It's a foundation every NCO should have," said Chicago native Cpl.

Petrayris Huertascollazo. "It's a good learning experience. I was able to learn from other NCOs and build a unique leadership style of my own. I don't take it for granted."

Gunnery Sgt. Julio Gonzalez served as chief instructor, three unit staff sergeants acted as squad advisors and other staff noncommissioned officers taught various classes.

"I think this course gives (noncommissioned officers and petty officers) more tools to better guide their subordinates in any situation," said squad advisor Staff Sgt. Heath Moon, 35, who hails from Magnolia, Texas.

The 11th MEU is currently deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (MKIARG) as the U.S. Central Command theater reserve force, also providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

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