Question:

Chief,
     My friend and I are currently stationed in Iceland.  Due to the base closure we have to pick new orders on wed. the 5th of april, next week!  We are looking into the new Riverine teams and want to try to get those orders.  The only thing is that we can't find any information on the program at all.  We have looked everywhere online.  I was hoping that maybe you could send us some information on the program.
     The first thing is we were wondering if we could come in on a buddy program and go through the training together and also get assigned to the same team or maybe even boat?  Also we were kind of hoping to get a break down of what they acctually do.  Specific jobs that they will be performing in Iraq as well as information reguarding all the task that it entails.  Also, I was wanting information as to the combat situations that the Marines in Iraq, that are doing this job right now, are facing.  Lastly, what kind of casuality rate is expected or what kind of casuality rate have the Marines been faced with in this job so far?  I really just want any information that i can get on the program and its exact goals as to the war on terrorism.
     Chief, thank you so much for your time in this matter.
In Christ,
Tinsley
 
 
Answer:
 
 Russ:
  Here is the official website with all the official info.  http://www.necc.navy.mil/  OPSEC will prevent me from openly discussing your other questions.  I know that Embarked Security DET 223 out of Atlanta's NAR allow the so-called buddy program.  Both the new NECC and the ESD teams work in and around Coastal Warfare and do similar jobs (although there are plenty of variations within each group).  There is no way to predict casualty rates anywhere, but I will discuss on PM if you are concerned.
  Hope this helps!
 
MAC Robert Wootton, USN
Chief Master-at-Arms
Small Arms Instructor/Range Safety Officer 0812
Criminal Investigator 2002