Cpl. Joseph L. White III holds his company guidon in

Cpl. Joseph L. White III holds his company guidon in preparations for the six-mile conditioning hike Feb. 12, 2016, at Camp Pendleton, Calif. The six-mile hike, led by I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, sought to improve operational readiness and camaraderie through tough, realistic physical training. “Corporal White is the meritorious sergeant nomination for the battalion, as well as the NCO of the quarter. That’s why he was given the privilege of carrying the battalion guidon,” said 1st Sgt. Christina E. Huntshorsemay, the company first sergeant of Charlie Company, 9th Communications Battalion, I MHG. White, a native of Belleville, Ill., is a digital multi-channel equipment operator with Co. C, 9th Comm. Bn. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Justin E. Bowles)