You cannot underestimate the role that a bunch of fired up Marines with a great house and lots of sports equipment can play to an overseas community. The Marines were always incredible professionals at their jobs, but you expect that from them. The Marines in CAR (and later in Chad) always went WAY beyond the call of duty in every way that you can imagine, from sponsoring movie nights and volleyball tournaments to swinging by the Peace Corps auberge and inviting Volunteers over for a swim and a game of pool.

This photo comes from Mess Night, one of the great Marine traditions that I was able to take part in. It was amazing night of beef that was 'tasty and fit for human consumption,' jokes, singing, and an all around good time. Gentlemen, the smoking latern has been lit!