MARINE DETACHMENT Fort Meade, Maryland Commander's Philosophy

The Marine Corps Combat Camera and Public Affairs communities represent a very special group of warriors among our Corps. We are warriors first and foremost, but we also carry the crucial responsibility of telling the story of our Corps to the world. At no other time in our Corps' history have our skills been more in demand and more relevant to our Corps' efforts in fighting terrorism.

The training grounds of the Defense Information School are where you will develop and refine your technical skills as a professional communicator. The Marine Detachment is where you will hone your warriorship. These disciplines are fundamental to your development as a whole Marine and your ability to execute our demanding mission.

As the commanding officer, I am wholly committed to your professional development and future success. I will establish a professional training environment that challenges you to excel in academics, combat fitness and character development.

The primary focus of the Marine Detachment is sustaining the transformation of the junior Marines who are entering our profession. It is a transformation that began in our recruit depots or officer candidate school. It is a transformation that is founded on our core values of honor, courage and commitment. These values will serve as the cornerstone of your training while at DINFOS, whether you're in the classroom, on the PT field, at the field training site or on liberty.

Our NCOs, SNCOs, and officers hold a critical role in the training and education of our combat correspondents and combat camera Marines. These junior Marines represent the future of our fields, and I challenge you to take an active role in their development. For those Marine leaders attending advanced and leadership courses, I can think of no better opportunity to hone your leadership skills than engaging, mentoring and sharing your expertise with our junior Marines.

Understand that you are here to learn a critical skill. The courses of instruction at DINFOS are demanding and require you to take an active role in your development. The pursuit of academic excellence must be your top priority. The DINFOS faculty and Marine Detachment staff are wholly committed to your success. Seek assistance; take the initiative and responsibility for your professional development.

My end state is seeing you at graduation as a confident, competent, ethical and professional warrior ready to support our operating forces.