A short bus ride across the base was mixed with a bit of nervousness and uncertainty for 56 spouses who participated in John and Jane Wayne Day, June 5.

“Some of them were very nervous. It was the fear of the unexpected,” said Jennifer Douglas, family readiness officer for Headquarters and Service Battalion. “But after they got started, it was nothing but smiles.”

Douglas, who has been the FRO for H&SBn. for eight years, said this was the first year the event has involved spouses from commands across the base and not solely one specific unit or command. The spouses were also from commands including Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Security Battalion, Training and Education Commands, The Basic School and the commands within Tenant Activities Company.

Held at Camp Upshur, located on the west side of the base, John and Jane Wayne Day helps spouses of Marines experience a day in their spouses’ boots to better understand how Marines function and train on a daily basis.

The day began when the spouses learned and familiarized themselves with training devices such as the virtual convoy combat trainer and Humvee egress assistance trainer.

The VCCT is used to help simulate scenarios Marines may encounter like blocked roads and improvised explosive device attacks while deployed to regions such as Afghanistan.

The HEAT helps provide training in emergency situations in case the vehicle is overturned or rolls on its side.

“It’s awesome. I really didn’t know what to expect, but it’s been great,” said Sarah Gayman, a spouse who attended the event.

After VCCT and HEAT training, the spouses moved to the indoor simulated marksman trainer and watched a Marine Corps martial arts demo. The ISMT is used for training in basic and advanced marksmanship and other shooting tactics experienced by Marines.

The MCMAP demonstration was taught by Marines from H&SBn.

“Today is a day for spouses to understand what their spouses do on daily basis,” said Col. Robin Gallant, commanding officer of H&S battalion. “From the roll-over training, MCMAP and everything else they’ve experienced today, the spouses are building camaraderie and making new friends. This is what John and Jane Wayne Day is all about.”

The highlight of the day for most was attempting the obstacle course and shooting an M249 squad automatic weapon.

While the obstacle course looked overwhelming, many accepted the challenge and glided through the course like seasoned pros.

Decked out in flack jackets, eye protection and ear protection, the spouses ended on their day on Range 14, with a safety brief and live-fire training.

“It was great,” said Modesta Rivera about live-fire training. “I loved everything about it. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be.”

Next year Douglas said she hopes more spouses will attend the event to experience a day in the life of their Marine.

— Writer: twert@quanticosentryonline.com