‘Serving mean looking out for the Marine to my left or right’

Lance Corporal Nicole Penwarden, a Goshen, New York, native assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is serving aboard the USS Iwo Jima.

Penwarden, a 2018 Goshen Central High School graduate, currently serves as a U.S. Marine Corps field radio operator.

“I program radios and other means of communications so that two or more areas can talk to another source,” said Penwarden.

Penwarden joined the Marine Corps two and a half years ago for the opportunities the military offers.

“I joined the Marine Corps to turn my life around,” the Marine said.

She added that she believes the values required to succeed as a Marine are similar to those found in Goshen.

“Growing up,” Penwarden said, “learned to never give up.”

The USS Iwo Jima is the seventh Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the second ship in the U.S. Navy to bear that name. The ship was named for the Battle of Iwo Jima of World War II.

According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts.

Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.

Though there are many opportunities for Marines to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Penwarden said she is thankful for the opportunity for self-improvement.

“I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve become independent,” said Penwarden. “I’ve also learned how to communicate better with the people around me.”

As a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Penwarden, as well as all who serve, know they are honoring themselves, each other and the nation.

“To me,” Penwarden said, “serving means looking out for the Marine to my left or right.’

Stephanie Fox writes for the U.S. Navy Office of Community Outreach, which provides articles and photographs of local men and women serving in the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps.