MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Twenty-eight Junior Marine Corps ROTC cadets from Jesuit High School, New Orleans, La. traveled nearly 2,000 miles to experience military life on Camp Pendleton, June 11.

The high school students were given hands-on weapons training by Marines from the Assault Amphibian School Battalion and rode in Amphibious Assault Vehicles conducting maneuvers in the Pacific Ocean.

“Being able to see this for yourself really helps you understand a lot more about the Marine Corps,” said Corbin C. Becnel, high school senior and cadet, Junior Marine Corps ROTC, Jesuit High School. “Most people have the idea that the Marine Corps is just grunts on the ground, but it’s so much more with so many different job fields.”

The high school students were also briefed on Marine Corps customs, courtesies and military lifestyle by the AASB staff.

“It was an incredible experience,” said David L. Williams, high school junior and cadet, Junior Marine Corps ROTC, Jesuit High School. “This experience has only encouraged me even more to join the Marine Corps.”

It’s important to hold these kinds of events to let everyone know what really goes on, said John W. Logan, platoon sergeant, AASBN, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

“I am honored to have these students come out here and do this; my only hope is that more would,” he added.

This public-interest driven experience is a regular event at the AASB occurring approximately three times a week.

“We have people come from across the country and around the world come here to experience this,” Logan said. “I encourage anyone wanting to know more about the Marine Corps to take advantage of this experience. If you aren’t sure, it can’t hurt to ask.”

For additional information about this program, contact the Assault Amphibian School Battalion at (760) 725-2353 or visit the Web site www.tecom.usmc.mil/aasbn/index.htm.