On behalf of the Marines, Sailors and families of 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, we would like to welcome you to the Marine Corps' only active duty rocket battalion! Rich in history and traditions which span our nation's conflicts from WWII to our present operations in Afghanistan, 5th Battalion, 11th Marines provides long range, precision rocket artillery fires in support of the Marine Air Ground Task Force.

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton offers some of the most diverse and challenging training ground in the Marine Corps today. From the coastal lowlands to the high plateaus bordering the Cleveland National Forrest, quality unit training is truly limitless! In addition to the training opportunities aboard Camp Pendleton and the surrounding communities, Southern California likewise offers an endless array of off- duty recreational and entertainment options for both single and married Marines and families. There are truly few other Marine Corps duty stations which offer such a complete balance.

As a nation at war, the pace of training and operations remains aggressive. In these challenging times, supportive families remain the bedrock of the unit. As a battalion, we work hard to recognize and develop family readiness as a critical component to operational readiness. If you have not already been contacted by the 5th Battalion, 11th Marines Family Readiness Officer, Joanna McBride, you'll be hearing from her soon with additional unit and community information. She will be your point of contact concerning any family readiness needs you may encounter. In addition to general information on unit activities, she will also be able to provide official two way command communication, information and referral services, and readiness and deployment support. Do not hesitate to contact her with any family readiness concerns, questions or suggestions.

Again, we welcome you to 5th Battalion, 11th Marines and look forward to your contributions! Welcome aboard!

Lieutenant Colonel D. R. Everly
Battalion Commanding Officer