MCCS Marines Enhance Mountain Warfare Training Exercise (MTX) via Base Camp and Mobile Field Exchange Offerings
Mountain Warfare Training (MTX) is a seven-week training exercise designed to train Marines, Sailors, and other armed forces for operations in complex terrain. The training utilizes military skills to enhance a unit’s ability to move, communicate, and survive in mountainous regions around the world.
During the latest evolution, two Camp Pendleton MCCS Marines, SSgt Yadira Mejia and Sgt Brittney Smith, established a Tactical Field Exchange (TFE) to support more than 1,500 military and civilian personnel.
Units in garrison had access to the TFE, while SSgt Mejia and Sgt Smith supported personnel in mountain training areas via mobile missions.
They operated out of a repurposed storage room in Lower Base Camp that was outfitted with shelving and tables to serve as a supplementary Micro Mart, providing goods before and after major movements at any time of day. They assisted an average of 200 troops per mission. The Marines established one TFE at Lower Base Camp and assisted the Main Exchange at Upper Base Camp. Both locations were opened throughout the day and into extended hours to provide supplementary food, uniform items, and hygiene items to personnel there.
Mobile missions were conducted using totes filled with merchandise, which were arranged in the Training Areas (TA). The Marines used a point-of-sale (POS) system operated via a GETAC with a wireless card reader and scanner, facilitating quick transactions. The mobile missions had a significant impact on troop morale by providing desired goods in an isolated area during rigorous training. The MCCS Marines received praise from all ranks, from enlisted personnel to officers, for accommodating their wants and needs at any time and place.
The MCCS Marines went above and beyond their duties, assisting command leadership in the planning and execution of their unit events such as squad competitions and Warrior’s night. Their dedication and commitment to the mission not only enhanced the overall training experience but also strengthened the bond between MCCS and the units they serve, ensuring that morale and support remained high throughout the exercise.
About the Author
Staff Sergeant Mejia enlisted in the Marine Corps and attended Recruit Training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina, in February 2018. She has dedicated six years of service to the Marine Corps, ranging from MOS 0621Field Radio Operator, 0623 TRC-170 Operator, and now 2 years as a Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Marine.
In April 2022, Staff Sergeant Mejia executed orders to CLR-17, Camp Pendleton, California where she began her training as an MCCS Marine. After six months of on-the-job training, she assumed to role and responsibilities as retail store manager and is now assisting the cluster manager in overseeing multiple stores. Her involvement across multiple divisions of MCCS has led to enhanced support to multiple units in MCI-West.
Her personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Good Conduct (2nd award).
