(Marine Corps Times) Backtalk: The right tools for the job

The right tools for the job
By Rob Kruger

Have you ever wondered why it takes so long for the Corps to issue gear that works exactly as it’s advertised? I think of all the times I either deployed or went to the field and ended up purchasing my own equipment that was either lighter or more efficient than its military counterpart. I mean, how many of us bought a minipenlight to carry in theater instead of the clunky L-shaped “moonbeam” that has been issued for more than 20 years? I am sure you can think of many more examples.

Even before the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq began, it was all too common to see Marines spending large amounts of their pay on high-speed-low-drag tactical equipment that was more functional than what we were issued. It was frustrating, to say the least. But now, it seems, the Corps is finally doing a better job delivering the top-of-the-line equipment we need and deserve.

When I attended the Modern Day Marine exposition this fall at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., I was impressed by all the products that solve some of the simple problems associated with our military-issue gear. For example, there was a new flashlight on display that is currently being fielded to the Corps. It is about the size of a deck of cards and has a halogen light with four LED lights, including infrared.

It was built for the Marines and tested so the end product is as Marine-proof as it could be. It can be clipped on any piece of gear or worn on a helmet and allowed to rotate, shining light in any position a Marine requires.

Certainly, this flashlight is better than even that minipenlight, which most of us would hold in our mouths when we needed to use both hands. But why did it take all these years to get a light that works as we need it to?


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