It's really a good all encompassing program given how Docs and Seabees stand entry control points, ride convoy shotgun with Marines and they're all integrated into the Lioness Program. All in all it's saved a lot of lives as they're taking fire in convoy or dodging snipers on construction projects in building Marine engineering efforts.
The FMF Warfare Qualification Pin process itself is no joke as it's based on the Corps' old Essential Subjects with a manual which is just as thick. Run exactly like Essential Subjects by combat veteran Marines, it denotes the wearer is "qualified" to serve in or with FMF units after they undergo a lengthy period of instruction where they're tested and board certified. Then they receive their pin much the same as our EGA ceremony.
The deal is they have to be actively serving in or with the FMF in order to qualify to tryout for the pin and they undergo the training while they're still performing their regular duties. Exactly like Essential Subjects, they're taught weapons, tactics, first aid, Marine Corps organizations, history, etc. My Children's Mother watched outgoing artillery and even climbed into tanks and tracks as part of her qualification in Fallujah. She still smiles when she talks about seeing Marine Grunt pin up poster girls in their bunkers during the defensive position training evolution.
As for the hump, she says it depends on the tactical situation where they're working and a matter of an individual Sailor's pride as to how much gear they carry above the required minimum. Needless to say she wore full "battle rattle" because she's second generation career Navy and her "leadership begins at the front by example."
Not too shabby for a multiple tour Navy Nam Vet's Daughter who stepped into her own as a multiple war tour Navy Seabee.
