Originally Posted By Matt Daugherty:
I know its a little off topic...
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Actually, I am getting the impression that we are getting actually closer to the topic our original poster intended.
I, like many apparently, was thinking like a planner. What I mean is, people talked about how there was no one answer, mission dependent, DOTS, METT-T, etc. We were all thinking primarily along the lines of weaponry, commo equipment, food and so forth. Personal gear was an afterthought.
I think what our AF buddy wants to know is what to pack to go play in the field with the Marines. You know, the kind of things that will never be on a unit packing list but WE ALL carry - often because we learned the hard way. Everyone has their own little quirks - things they would not want to do without - I think perhaps he wants suggestions. Tripler: am I on track here?
Anyway, you will want to know how much you will be moving. You must find the right medium between hooah and heavy. This would definitely effect how many uniforms, socks, whether you pack extra boots, etc.
Cold weather adds a whole new can of worms - form snivel gear to frozen shaving cream - maybe someone else will go into detail here. I will simply say this: If you are going to move, you want to be cold when you start! PLEASE don't bundle up before a big movement - you will overheat, sweat, and all your snivel gear will be wet, Then, when you do stop, you will start to get REALLY cold and have nothing dry to put on!
OK, enough of that soapbox! Someone already mentioned Goldbond (the powder, not the lotion)- DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! Other things you may not have thought of include vaseline (in case you start getting an uncomfortable rubbing), duct tape (that green 100 mph stuff has more uses than mph), wet-wipes, a good pocket knife, well - I'm sure many more people here have things to add. Remember, you will have to carry everything. If you really are going on a "patrol" and not just to "the field" you will be doing a lot of humping. Add on top of your personal items the weight and bulk of ammo, weapon, claymore, radio, or other such pain and you will see why many long range patrolling vets may even scoff at the idea of more than one change of socks. Oh yeah, check out what your medic (corpsman?) is carrying - no point in redundantly carrying stuff like moleskin, etc. if he's got a stash already.
Also, if you are really gonna be living ugly for a while, get a good 30 day haircut.
Excuse me if I have rambled - I am not paid for my English skills.
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