Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. -- Col. Robert Fulford, commanding officer of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Sgt. Maj. Scott Schmitt, Sgt. Maj. of the MEU, spoke to Marines and sailors from 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division about the upcoming Black Sea Rotational Force deployment July 10, 2014 at Camp Lejuene, N.C.
“For many of us this is a once in a lifetime chance,” said Fulford, “The Marines of 2/2 are going to be doing good things overseas.”
To experience their culture, share hardships with them, train with them, impart some knowledge on them and also to receive some knowledge back are key to foreign militaries continuing to train with us, said Fulford. But you can only do that by going overseas and standing shoulder to shoulder with them.
Fulford and Schmitt both spoke on goals of the deployment to the Marines, including maintaining enduring partnerships, thriving in the face of uncertainty, and maintaining a good image while on deployment.
"You are the face of the Marine Corps while you’re over there,” said Schmitt. “All of your non-commissioned officers have given you the proper training, but character is what you may need to bring to this fight.” Fulford wrapped up the speeches by answering questions from the Marines about the deployment and reiterating that the 26th MEU is looking forward to working with the Warlords of 2/2.