MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON -- Although sometimes overlooked in America’s recent wars with guerilla forces that lack aerial capabilities, the Marines with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion remain a viable part of the Corps’ team. Even though their primary skill set is not of current use, 3rd LAAD Bn. is making sure they are not out of practice.

The Marines that comprise this unique unit – a unit designed and trained to shoot down opposing air forces with shoulder-fired stinger missiles – proved themselves capable during Ground Base Air Defense training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton March 15-18.

“We’re building a proficiency to provide a low altitude air defense capability that no other service can provide,” said Lt. Col. Aaron Weiss, the commanding officer of 3rd LAAD Bn.

The battalion practiced GBAD by defending a simulated allied nation recently attacked by a professional enemy air force.

Two companies strategically scattered 20 stinger-teams through Camp Pendleton’s mountainous terrain. The teams – comprised of approximately three to four Marines each equipped with personal weapons, four stinger missiles and a humvee with a mounted machine gun – hid on the sides of mountains and covered their vehicles and equipment with nearby foliage and camouflage netting.

Throughout the five-day training evolution, the Marines practiced radio communications, cover and concealment, and shooting down simulated enemy aircraft. The training also required Marines to conduct these tasks while in Mission Oriented Protective Posture gear. MOPP gear protects the wearer from nuclear, biological and chemical attacks.

These Marines perform a vast amount of jobs, ranging from their primary LAAD mission to serving as security and quick reaction.

“We are very unique in that aspect,” said Sgt. William Carson, the intelligence chief for 3rd LAAD Bn. “Not only can we accomplish ground missions, we can accomplish air defense as well.”