FMF Pin

A challenge for sailors serving with the Marines is earning their Fleet Marine Force (FMF) pin. Folks in the know call it a warfare device, and serving with the Marines without earning this is a blight on one's character. Blight is a little strong, maybe a bit of a tarnish? I only know this from being around sailors who have worked with Marines. 

Although the Marines are part of the Navy, they seem to be separated by a common language. Their functions are different, yet equipment and procedures have to be compatible in a variety of settings: shipboard, field, combat. Ryan has been working on the requirements for his pin since his arrival. He passed the oral exam (yes, it's a requirement!), which is the final hurdle after completing multiple hands-on activities or interviews of Marines doing what they do best, depending on their MOS. This morning, Ryan was awarded his FMF pin. He had a lot of support from the 3D Med Bn S-4 shop:

Captain Reyna, a colleague and friend who has helped Ryan learn how the S-4 shops are supposed to work, was invited to apply the pin. I liked that a Marine of equivalent rank was ready and willing to give the FMF pin to Ryan - a bit of extra validation!

He wears it well! There aren't too many people sporting dolphins (submariner days) and FMF devices, making this a unique complement of pieces of military flair. 

I was happy to escape from work for a bit to support Ryan in this latest of many achievements for him.