The CLB-4 Marines retrograded supplies and equipment from the patrol base over the course of several trips in preparation for the base’s closure and demolition.

“This is the first (demilitarization) CLB-4 has been a part of,” said 2nd Lt. Matthew E. Danielson, a platoon commander with CLB-4, 1st Marine Logistics Group, Regimental Combat Team 6. “The rest of the (combat logistics patrols) have been direct support to operations, bringing supplies out to the (forward operating bases) and (combat outposts).”

CLB-4 Marines are gaining proficiency as they gain experience fulfilling their duties as Regimental Combat Team 6’s direct support battalion, according to Sgt. Junior R. Infante, a security team leader with the battalion.

“The Marines are becoming much sharper tactically while still accomplishing the logistics support mission,” said Infante. “The Marines are able to pick up or put down (shipping containers) anywhere we can fit the trucks.

“They have learned from their experience out here how to deal with rough or uneven terrain, as well as loading shipping containers that have been sunk into the ground,” added Infante.

Along with being CLB-4’s first demilitarization mission, the convoy was also one of the smallest CLB-4 has conducted, according to Danielson.

“It was a small operation,” said Danielson. “One platoon retrograded an entire base. Accomplishing that in the number of trips we made shows how capable our vehicles are and how much they can carry.”

The battalion anticipates more convoys similar to the PB Mirmandab run. 

“We are expecting to see more (demilitarization) missions in the future as the FOBs and COPs start to shut down,” said Danielson.

The mission was considered successful based upon the speed and efficiency of the demilitarization.

“The (combat logistics patrol) went well,” said Danielson. “We managed to demilitarize the entire base … had little to no maintenance issues with the vehicles, and kept good momentum throughout the convoy.”

Infante anticipates continued mission success based upon the high level of performance and professionalism already demonstrated by CLB-4 Marines.