CJTF-HOA Marines Keep the Line Secure

By Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi

Cpl. Christian B. Tomey and Lance Cpls. Alfred Thurlow and Mark S. George,troubleshoot users' computers remotely here March 12. (USMC Photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi)

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - Leathernecks with Command Logistics Element, Marine Central Command, here in support of Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, are providing vital security - not on the fence line, but through the air, wires and Internet.

They are the data section, communications department. They administer, maintain and repair computer systems on both classified and unclassified networks.

They officially took control of communications from the Army's 40th Signal Battalion Jan. 26.

When they arrived, the Army had a network set up for approximately 250 computer systems, including both desktops and laptops. Because of the growing need for more systems, the base needed a network to handle thousands.

"The Army provided a solid starting point for us," said Sgt Sean K. King, data communication chief, CLE, who hails from Orange, Texas. "It's been our mission to expand it."

By working an average of 14-hour days, they did exactly that - set up a network that's built to last and that's able to cater to new users without a hitch, according to King.

Cpl. Christian B. Tomey, gets a wire ready for a connection to a computer so it will have network capability March 12. (USMC Photo by Cpl. Matthew J. Apprendi)

"We came from all over the place, and everyone brought unique technical skills to make this happen," said Staff Sgt. Bryan Brown, communications chief, CLE. "Considering everything we handle here, our shop is pretty small. But, by working as a team, we're able to complete our mission."

Currently, there are 700 systems up and running with more than 900 users - more than a 100 percent increase since they arrived here.

"This is the first time I've worked in a joint environment," King said. "Everyone put in a 110 percent to make this happen. I'll gladly do it again."

Additionally, they set up a computer software program called Dameware that allows them to connect to a user's computer remotely.

"We're able to troubleshoot many more systems without leaving our desk area by using this software," King said.

They've already completed 300 computer-troubleshooting requests. The Dameware and their 24-hour, seven-days-a-week user hotline has kept the network running with minimal down time.

"It's not just the work aspect either. If we didn't have this network up, personnel here wouldn't be able to communicate with their family back home," said Lance Cpl. Mark K. George, small computer system specialist, CLE.