CLR-15 completes deployment, transfers Logistics Combat Element to CLR-2

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – After completing a successful deployment as the Logistics Combat Element for Regional Command Southwest, Combat Logistics Regiment 15 transferred authority of the LCE to CLR-2 during a ceremony aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Jan. 26.

Combat Logistics Regiment 15 took command of the LCE from 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) during September 2012 and provided RC(SW) with tactical logistics support throughout the area of operations.

During their time deployed to Helmand province, the Marines and sailors of CLR-15 accomplished many missions. The unit planned and coordinated 535 combat logistics patrols, coordinated the movement of more than 1.2 million gallons of fuel throughout the battlespace, coordinated and executed more than 150 helicopter support team missions, executed nine major base transfers or closures in support of Base Realignment and Closure operations, and much more. 

“I couldn’t be more proud of the work our Marines and sailors did,” said Col. Stephen Sklenka, commanding officer, CLR-15. “Our goal was to provide uninterrupted logistics support that maintained the operational momentum of the (International Security Assistance Force Marine Air-Ground Task Force). That was our fundamental objective, and I’d like to think we did just that.”

During the ceremony, Sklenka and Sgt. Maj. William Sowers, CLR-15 sergeant major, added the Afghan Campaign Streamer to their unit’s Battle Colors before casing the colors, marking the end of their deployment to Afghanistan.

Lieutenant Col. James Stone IV, CLR-2 executive officer, and Sgt. Maj. Lanette Wright, CLR-2 sergeant major, uncased their unit’s Battle Colors during the ceremony, signifying the start of their deployment as RC(SW)’s LCE.

“We are excited to be a part of the RC(SW) team,” Stone said. “We’ve trained hard, had a phenomenal partner to (relief in place) with, and we look forward to providing tactical logistics support throughout Helmand province.

“To the CLR-2 Marines and sailors, we know we are prepared for the job at hand,” Stone said. “The leadership has the upmost confidence in your abilities and your abilities going forward. Keep your game face on because now it’s our turn.”