MCCS Tactical Field Exchange Successfully Supports Marines
During the recent Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) Exercise (MPFEX, the MCCS Tactical Field Exchange (TFE) emerged as a key operational hub where the dedication and hard work of the MCCS Marines truly shone. The exercise provided a unique opportunity for our team to demonstrate the exceptional adaptability and problem-solving skills that are integral to our success—especially when faced with an incoming hurricane and the challenges that arose from it.
"During the Maritime Prepositioning Force Exercise, our MCCS Marines showcased the very essence of Marine Corps adaptability and resilience. Even in the face of a hurricane, they not only provided essential services but went above and beyond, turning challenges into opportunities for innovation. Their ability to maximize resources and meet unexpected demands underscores the unwavering commitment of our Marines to support their fellow warfighters, no matter the circumstances." — U.S. Marine Veteran, and former Logistics Officer, Raphael Hernandez, Deputy Director, Marketing and Innovation, Business and Support Services Division, Headquarters Marine Corps
The preparation leading up to the exercise was rigorous, with a two-week period of intense planning and logistics, ensuring every detail was accounted for. The TFE was manned by a team of Marines who exemplified professionalism and efficiency, operating daily from 0730 until the close of training. Their ability to seamlessly run a Tactical Point of Sale (TPOS) system under a simple pop-up tent and maintain steady restocking from a nearby van speaks volumes about their commitment and resourcefulness. The TFE's support was essential, providing critical items like snacks, drinks, and vapes—a product that was in far greater demand than initially anticipated. This taught us that future operations would benefit from expanding our stock assortment to better meet Marine needs in the field.
One of the unique logistical challenges faced was the reliance on the MCCS van, which became a multi-purpose asset throughout the exercise. The van shuttled Marines between the TFE and the beach while also handling vital support functions, including assisting with laundry services. However, reflecting on the exercise, we recognize that increasing the van's seating capacity would significantly enhance its role in the daily logistics and movement of personnel.
At Blount Island, the Warfighter Express Service Team (WES-T) encountered its own set of obstacles but persevered through meticulous coordination. Their deployment to Camp Blanding highlighted the need for better-integrated planning for WES-T operations, particularly regarding transporting merchandise and personnel. The generator and solar panels powering the TFE performed admirably, but the unexpected hurricane conditions reminded us of the need for improved weather protection for equipment in the future.
Despite the challenges presented by both the weather and the operational demands, the team’s hard work paid off. With total sales of $7,997.00 and a net profit of about $3,200, the exercise demonstrated our team's ability to adapt to changing conditions while ensuring the operation remained successful and Marines in the field received the support they needed.
After two weeks of relentless execution, our Marines continued to show their unwavering dedication, spending an additional two weeks reconciling the operation and ensuring all logistics were squared away. Their efforts were nothing short of commendable, and their resilience in the face of adversity exemplified the spirit of Marine Corps Community Services.
Looking ahead, we’ve gained invaluable insights from this exercise. From enhancing logistical planning and increasing stock variety to reinforcing weatherproofing measures and improving transportation assets, we are better prepared for future operations. The MCCS Marines continue to set a high standard, adapting to whatever challenges come their way and demonstrating that, even under the most difficult circumstances, they can excel and overcome.
About the Author
Gunnery Sergeant Chad V. Elders, United State Marine Corps, is currently the Deputy for Deployment Support, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Gunnery Sergeant Chad V. Elders enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in May 2013 and completed recruit training at Parris Island. He served as a radio operator and deployed to multiple locations, including Spain and Romania, supporting various operations and training NATO forces. Promoted to Sergeant in 2017, he transitioned to Marine Corps Community Services, managing field exchanges and stores at multiple bases, including a deployment to Australia. After graduating from Basic Recruiters School in 2020, he served as a recruiter and SNCOIC, eventually being promoted to Staff Sergeant. In 2024, he was promoted to Gunnery Sergeant and currently serves as Deputy Deployment Support at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
