MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- To help veterans, family and friends of service members get a better understanding of the basic duties required of today’s war-fighter, 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion’s hosted their 2nd annual Raider Day at Camp Pendleton’s Range 132, Sept. 24.

“We host Raider Day to help put in perspective for friends and families what their Marine does for a living,” said Sgt. Maj. Garrit E. Duncan, sergeant major, 1st MSOB. “We also host this event to help veterans relive the time they spent in the Corps.”

The day began with participants firing some of the weapons systems from the Marine Corps’ arsenal, such as the M9 pistol, M16 assault rifle, MP5 submachine gun and the M24 Sniper Weapon System.

“Getting the chance to shoot these weapons is such a great gift,” said Kimberly C. Karren, military daughter, Camp Pendleton. “This was the first time I ever shot a real weapon and it is something I will never forget.”

To assist the visitors, more than 20 1st MSOB weapons technicians were on hand to answer questions about the different weapon systems.

“These Marines are so helpful and professional at what they do,” said Melisa Landers, military spouse, Camp Pendleton. “When I first came, I didn’t know much about the guns, but now I feel real comfortable about handling any of them.”

After shooting the Marines' weapons it was time to eat like Marines. Meals Ready to Eat, a prepackage meal often reserved for eating in a field or combat environment, was on the menu.

“This whole day has really given me a different view of the life of the Marines,” said Karren. “Doing what they do on a daily basis is a job I seem to find very admirable.” It’s good to know that our country is being defended by such strong individuals, she said.