Fort A.P. Hill, Va. -- Marines of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, performed an obstacle course exercise to start their two-week training evolution here Nov. 30.
The company tackled the multi-structure wooden course in two-man teams as one of several predeployment training exercises the battalion has scheduled until Dec. 13.
Staff Sgt. Mark Frost, platoon sergeant, Mobile Assault Platoon, Weapons Company, said the course, which is comprised of several obstacles that require strength, stamina and mental toughness, helps maintain more than the Marines’ physical fitness.
“The obstacle course was good because it builds camaraderie amongst Marines,” Frost said. “It’s a good physical training evolution that’s not so much mentally challenging, but physically tough.”
Marines like Pvt. Cory Cupp, a machinegunner with the platoon, said the course was not that difficult but it was fun and he is looking forward to the remainder of training here.
“I saw a couple of Marines put to the test out there,” Cupp said. “Whether balancing or climbing, it was all fun. I can’t wait to go out to the machinegun ranges.”
Lance Cpl. David Brackett, assaultman with the platoon, said he and other Marines further developed their espirit de corps through this exercise.
“(Training on courses like this) are not about rank or seniority, they’re about working together,” Brackett said. “It felt like playing together in an away game. It always helps to train in an unfamiliar area,” he added about training away from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., home to the battalion.