Photo Information

A stream of pepper spray hits the eyes of Lance Cpl. Jorge Pinon, administrative clerk, Headquarters and Service Battalion during Ground Security Force training here Nov. 2. The non-lethal chemical oleoresin capsicum, OC, caused irritation to Pinon?s head and neck. Depot Marines are required to experience the chemical?s effects in order to qualify to carry OC while standing Ground Security Force duty.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Robert W. Beaver

GSF opens Marines’ eyes to potent training

21 Nov 2007 | Lance Cpl. Robert W. Beaver Marine Corps Recruiting Command

 When the stream of pepper spray hit Lance Cpl. Jorge Pinon’s eyes, he felt pain.

 The non-lethal chemical oleoresin capsicum, a potent form of pepper spray, felt like fire in his eyes while temporarily blinded him.

 “I have never felt that kind of pain before,” said Pinon, an administrative clerk with Headquarters and Service Battalion.

 Military and law enforcement organizations use the chemical agent to deter and apprehend suspects or aggressive figures.

 However, Pinon, a Palm Desert, Calif., native, was not a suspect, but a compliant candidate voluntarily experiencing the effects of the spray.

 He and 18 other depot Marines trained to become Ground Security Force qualified Nov. 2. It was required to obtain an OC level 1 contamination, meaning they needed to be exposed to the chemical and feel its effects while completing a four-station course. Once they pass the test, they receive a certification to carry the agent while on GSF duty.

 Almost every week, the depot Provost Marshals Office conducts GSF training to prepare depot Marines to fill positions as military police augments when needed for the base. Throughout the weeklong course, Marines learn escalation of force, which are rules on what force levels are necessary to use to gain control of a situation, and are taught basic law enforcement tactics such as non-lethal apprehending techniques.

 “Experiencing the effects first-hand gives them more respect for the chemical,” said Staff Sgt. Antonio G. Lopez, training chief, PMO. “It will help them know when it is necessary to use it.”

 The four-station course is designed to simulate accidental exposure to OC when using against a suspect. The course challenges Marines’ abilities to gain control of a situation while affected by the chemical.

 The first and second stations require Marines to strike simulated suspects, then defend themselves from the suspects’ attacks at the third station. As they approach the final station, they are required to apprehend a suspect.

 “The course was easy, but my face felt like it was on fire, making it hard,” said Pinon.

 GSF Marines are called to duty almost every week to help provide security during large events like boot camp graduations and ceremonies. Their duties include searching visitors’ vehicles for explosives, weapons and contraband.

 After the completion of the course, depot military police later serve alongside GSF qualified Marines, who can be trusted to fulfill their roles as MP augments.


Marine Corps Recruiting Command