0699 Communications Chief

For outstanding meritorious service while serving as Communications Chief, Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, Sixth Marine Regiment, Second Marine Division, from 16 December 2022 to 28 March 2025. During this period, Master Sergeant Krusinski's exceptional leadership, technical acumen, and relentless dedication to mission success elevated the operational capabilities of the battalion and strengthened allied interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region. As the Communications Chief for the Unit Deployment Program East 23.1, Master Sergeant Krusinski expertly oversaw the turnover of over $15 million in equipment and maintained an equipment readiness rate exceeding 95 percent. During the Korean Marine Exchange Program 23.1, he directed a detachment of 32 Marines and established secure communications between U.S. and Republic of Korea Marine Combat Operations Centers, strengthening bilateral interoperability. Master Sergeant Krusinski spearheaded the design of a large, diverse portion of the communications spectrum during the battalion's Alert Contingency MAGTF mission, providing resilient networks for joint and allied forces and setting new standards for rapid response operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, during bilateral training exercise LuHo, he developed 40 hours of communications curriculum and Training and Readiness standards, enabling a partner nation's military unit to achieve operational readiness. For MTX 3-24, he integrated commercial satellite systems and Iridium-based technologies to ensure robust connectivity in austere conditions. Overseeing 400 cryptographic items and 50 keys, his planning supported a diverse range of missions and exercises, reinforcing operational adaptability. His ingenuity in modernizing communications included custom cabling systems for AN/PRC-163 radios, saving the Marine Corps over $100,000 and unlocking dual-channel capabilities for forward-deployed units. Master Sergeant Krusinski's superior performance of duty, steadfast devotion, and 20 years of honorable service reflect great credit upon himself, the Second Marine Division, and the United States Marine Corps.

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0699 Communications Chief

MERITORIOUS SERVICE WHILE SERVING AS COMMUNICATIONS CHIEF, COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, HEADQUARTERS BATTALION, 2D MARINE DIVISION, FROM MARCH 2022 TO JUNE 2023. DURING THIS PERIOD, MASTER GUNNERY SERGEANT KRIVENKO'S ASTUTE COUNSEL AND ABSOLUTE PROFESSIONALISM YIELDED ENDURING POSITIVE IMPACTS ON THE OVERALL PERFORMANCE AND READINESS OF 2D MARINE DIVISION. HE ASSISTED IN THE PLANNING AND EXECUTION OF DIVISION COMMUNICATIONS CAPABILITIES WITH AN EMPHASIS ON SCALABILITY AND SURVIVABILITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COMMANDER'S INTENT. HE EXPERTLY MANAGED PERSONNEL BY ENGAGING WITH PEERS AND MONITORS TO REDUCE STAFFING SHORTFALLS AND ENABLE SUSTAINED OPERATIONAL CAPABILITIES THROUGHOUT THE DIVISION. HIS SOUND GUIDANCE AND ENGAGED LEADERSHIP GREATLY FOSTERED A SENSE OF PURPOSE FOR MORE THAN 200 MARINES IN THE COMPANY. HE SPEARHEADED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT BY INCREASING ATTENDANCE TO A VARIETY OF FORMAL SCHOOLS IN ADDITION TO ADVANCING THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT THROUGH DAILY INTERACTION WITH MARINES OF ALL RANKS. MASTER GUNNERY SERGEANT KRIVENKO'S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT ON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.

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0699 Communications Chief

SUMMARY OF ACTION GUNNERY SERGEANT DOBIE J. AUGUST

Gunnery Sergeant Dobie J. August is enthusiastically recommended for the Meritorious Service Medal for meritorious service while serving as the Squadron's Communications Chief and Staff Non-Commissioned Officer-In-Charge, Marine Air Support Squadron 6 (MASS-6), Marine Air Control Group 48 (MACG-48), 4th Marine Air Wing (4th MAW), from September 2020 to January 2023. His various noteworthy accomplishments include the following:

From September 2020 to February 2021, Gunnery Sergeant August was assigned as the Communications Chief for MASS-6. After the billet being vacant for several months, Gunnery Sergeant August created a desk top procedure and turn over binders that is the standard operating procedure for MASS-6 daily procedurals. His performance within the C&E Company had immediate and lasting impacts throughout the squadron and his service in squadron and group-level assignments during exercise planning and execution resulted in a responsive and effective Marine Air Command and Control Systems (MACCS) in multiple large and complex exercises. Gunnery Sergeant August distinguished himself through his performance in the billet of Communications Chief for the Communications and Electronics (C/E) Company. In this billet, Gunnery Sergeant August was responsible for the training and education of more than 100 Marines on both coasts. Gunnery Sergeant August provided education on transmission fundamentals, communication, and networking equipment, the basics of radio theory, as well as tactical radio and antenna employment to the Marines within the C/E Company and the Air Support Company. These actions directly increased the readiness and training of all Direct Air Support Center (DASC) Marines in MASS-6.

Gunnery August implemented and supervised a robust series of virtual training programs to ensure the Marines in the unit continued educational advancement through an unprecedented pandemic led by his S-6 section. To ensure complete safety of all Marines during this challenging time. His forward thinking and ability to adapt to an ever-changing environment allowed the Marines to continue serving in a positive manner. His willingness to teach and challenge the Marines to be their best improved morale and retention within MASS-6.

From March 2021 to May 2021, in support of Nights Watch 1-21, and COMMEX 1-21; Gunnery Sergeant August developed an in-depth communications architecture that incorporated the east and west coast detachment ensuring consistent communications were established on all voice and data networks. This included the incorporation of the High Frequency bandwidth, Very High Frequency Bandwidth, Ultra High Frequency Bandwidth, KU Bandwidth, and KA bandwidth. Gunnery Sergeant August coordinated with the Marine Forces Reserve (MFR) Frequency Spectrum Manager to ensure adequate satellite time was available to allow the squadron to securely communicate over voice and data streams to all other agencies within the MACCS. These agencies included the Tactical Air Control Center, the Tactical Air Operations Center, and the headquarters element of MACG-48. Gunnery Sergeant August actions directly enhanced the control group's overall tactical effectiveness allowing more influential training for communication and data technicians.

Gunnery Sergeant August was responsible for the implementation and supervision of the Training and Readiness (T&R) Program for all 06XX, 28XX, 59XX communication operator technicians. Within this responsibility, Gunnery Sergeant August supervised the completion of more than 100 events for both the Active Duty as well as the Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR) communication technicians increasing the unit's Core Model Minimum Requirements allowing the squadron to employ and manage Air Command and Control Systems within the DASC more effectively. Gunnery Sergeant August actions ensured more than 50 skills were achieved within the 5974, and 5979 Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) increasing the overall technical knowledge within the unit.

As Detachment Alpha's Communications Security Material System (CMS) Key Management Infrastructure (KMI) account manager, Gunnery Sergeant August was accountable for more than 170 Controlled Cryptographic Items (CCI) which included encryption management, logistical processing of all CCI assets, processing of End-of-Life Cycle replacement to ensure continuous usage of cryptographic requirements, and cyclic auditing of the KMI and MCS process directly to the Commanding Officer. This billet also required the close coordination with the MACG-48 and MFR KMI Managers to ensure all cryptographic fill devices and short titles were maintained and purged within the correct timelines. During this duration, the squadron received zero COMSEC incidents.

From June 2021 to December 2021, operations Field Training Exercise 1-21 (FEX 1-21), Summer Fury (1-21), and Steel Knight-22, have been the hallmark of Gunnery Sergeant August contribution to the unit. As MASS-6 Communications Chief, Gunnery Sergeant August expertly planned, coordinated, and supervised all communications support through the unit's geographically separated training sites located at Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee, Massachusetts, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Camp Pendleton, California, and Twenty-nine Palms, California. Throughout his tenure, Gunnery Sergeant August effectively led over 115 Marines within his unit and enabled over 20 Direct Air Support Center field training exercises and three Annual Training exercises. Between both locations, he was responsible for the accountability, serviceability, and logistical requirements of more than 25 million dollars' worth of aviation command and control systems.

Gunnery Sergeant August directly managed timely and effective implementation of hundreds of equipment modifications, technical directives, and engineering change proposals, including complex modifications and upgrades to the squadron's Aviation Command and Control Systems, AN/MRC-145Bs, AN/MRC-148s, and various other communication and cryptographic items within the squadron. These system upgrades were essential to MASS-6's combat readiness and the provision of essential aviation command and control support for numerous exercises and training events across the globe.

Gunnery Sergeant August utilized a full career's worth of experience and knowledge gained to create valuable training programs that led to increased proficiency for the communications Marines in utilizing High Frequency, Very High Frequency, Ultra High Frequency, and Satellite Communications equipment. He worked diligently with Marine Forces Reserve communications leadership to conduct annual communication exercises. His technical expertise ensured that MASS-6 was able to successfully conduct single channel radio communications with Marine Forces Reserve units across the entire county. These valuable communication exercises prepared the reserve units for participation in the annual reserve Integrated Training Exercise (ITX 4-21) in Twenty-nine Palms, California.

As the squadron's Communications Training Instructor, Gunnery Sergeant August supervised the squadron's communications training and readiness (T&R) program. He implemented the T&R program within the C&E Company, and his initiative and forward-planning brought the T&R program to the forefront of the training plan for C&E. He developed a cyclic technical training program aligned to directive requirements which ensured his Marines were adequately and continuously trained to perform rigorous technical duties. The implementation of the program improved the company's technical readiness through weekly technical training courses, and a routine auditing program which ensured the continuous administrative updates within T&R record jackets to ensure that all training was captured and accurately reported for the overall readiness of the squadron's C&E Marines. With the implementation of the program, the company trained 40 Radio Marines, and 10 Ground Maintenance Repair Marines with high proficiency marks in their respective MOS. His proficiency in communication procedures ensured that the detachment was able to adequately prepare for the Field Supply Maintenance Analysis Office inspection in the summer of 2021. His technical knowledge along with his leadership directly contributed to a successful inspection.

From January 2022- September 2022, Gunnery Sergeant August developed the squadron's Cyber Security Work Force for Fiscal Year 23, by ensuring the squadron was following the Department of Defense cyber security requirements. His expertise of the cyber-security training pipeline ensured his Marines had the appropriate training needed to fulfill their technical duties and allowed the flexibility to support mission requirements within the unique limitations presented by Selected Marine Corps Reserve component. Through coordination with Marine Forces Reserve (MFR) and the online courses provided by Microsoft Training Center, Gunnery Sergeant August formulated a self-paced and instructor validated cyber training curriculum. His actions developed C&E Marines from their entry-level basic knowledge of computer components into industry-certified Information Security Technicians through a remote learning process. Due to this training availability, the unit was able to save more than 5,000 dollars in travel cost per Marine, accumulating in more than 130,000 dollars in overall travel savings.

Gunnery Sergeant August led over 115 Marines firmly, fairly, and effectively. He fostered an environment of trust, communication and innovation which became evident in the high standard of performance and output his company provided the Squadron and the MACCS. The morale within his company was always high due to the continuous professional military education, training, and self-improvement which he encouraged for all Marines under his charge. His positive leadership was strongly reflected through the accomplishments of his marines which include five Marines being selected as the MACG-48 Marine and Non-Commissioned Officers of the Quarter, five meritorious promotions to the ranks of Lance Corporal and Corporal as well as various other awards of impact for their outstanding performance during multiple exercises. His leadership and mentorship spanned across all ranks and were emulated by his senior staff which included one C&E Staff Non-Commissioned Officer that was selected for appointment as Warrant Officer.

Throughout this period, Gunnery August provided extraordinary leadership, insight, administrative and exceptional technical advice, and superb communications expertise in directing and facilitating MASS-6 drive toward increased readiness, accountability, and the logical application of sound management principles. He provided technical direction to the diverse and multifaceted activities of the S-6 section. His innovative and common-sense approach to problem solving greatly enhanced the ability of the S-6 section to support MASS-6. Through his capable leadership, he inspired the personnel who served with him to such an extent that all assigned missions were performed punctually, and in an exemplary manner. He has staff cognizance over the following subordinate S-6 sections which provided the primary mission to coordinate all internal communication/maintenance matters in support to MASS-6; Communication, Plans, Operations and Administration; Weapons, Facilities; Material Readiness Support. Not to limit coordinating with the S-4 section which helped orchestrate the organic supply, maintenance, communications, engineer, motor transport and ordnance equipment.

Gunnery August ensured that the active and reserve communication Marines deploying in support of MACCS Integrated Simulated Exercise (MISTEX-22), and Gunslinger-22 were well supported with adequate communication equipment assets to accomplish their mission prior to their departure. He ensured all MASS-6 Marines received quality operational service support for all exercises and contingency operations held throughout various locations in MCAS Miramar, California and Salina, Kansas. Gunnery Sergeant August has been a critical enabler in MASS-6 successful participation in all engagements, assuming a prominent role in designing the C4 architecture supporting operations. Gunnery Sergeant August has been effective in ensuring adherence to the proper coordination and execution of pre-employment procedures. Despite numerous emerging requirements and shortened planning timelines, Gunnery Sergeant August consistently managed to meet submission deadlines for all administrative requirements.

His many contributions include:

Coordinated military and civilian subject matter expertise in support of communication operations with adjacent unit operations across all manner of communication disciplines including:

Transmission systems (single channel and multichannel, terrestrial and satellite)

Data networks (system administration, operating systems/applications software installation and maintenance, network services, and data management)

Telephone switching and IP phone/call manager integration

Information assurance, network security

Network accreditation for NIPRNET, SIPRNET, and coalition networks

Frequency management

Controlled cryptographic item employment, storage, and handling

Physical security requirements

Communication security, Electronic Key Management System

Help desk/customer support operations

Communications Control organization structure, processes, and concept of operations

Coordinated employment of organic communication units with external communication elements of other services, ground, air, and naval units from the United States military forces.

30 Training and Readiness Qualifications throughout a myriad of complex military occupational specialty fields such as 0621, 0627, and 2841. His direct supervision resulted in mastery domain infrastructure, active directory management, scripting, disaster recovery, database management, virtualization, and messaging. (14) 0621 mastery, (12) 0627 mastery, and (6) 2841 mastery. Gunnery August was a key player in planning the communication architecture supporting every major training and exercise employment plan (TEEP) event supporting MASS-6 training. Throughout his tenure, Gunnery Sergeant August was sought out by all Marines within the unit for his insight, technical knowledge, and professional leadership.

Gunnery Sergeant August was a vital key player at planning conferences for each iteration of Large-Scale Integrated Training Exercise (ITX-22) during his tenure at MASS-6. He took active roles in communication planning working groups and closely worked with planners from Marine Aircraft Group (MAG)-49, MAG-41, Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS)-472, MWSS-473, Marine Air Control Squadron-(MACS) 24, 23rd Marine Regiment, and 25th Marine Regiment. He aided in the construction of communication networks ensuring MASS-6 had the ability to communicate with external units as well as the MACS-24 Mobile Marine Air Traffic Control Teams. During the ITX 4-22 Initial Planning Conference, he seized the initiative and volunteered as the lead Aviation Combat Element (ACE) communications planner within the communications working group. He represented not only MACCS interests but also worked closely with Marines from MAG-41 flying squadrons and MWSS 473 to account for all ACE communication requirements. His performance as a communications planner resulted in MAG-41 leadership specifically by-name requesting him for follow on ITX 4-22 planning conferences.

Gunnery Sergeant August vast knowledge and willingness to help others was utilized during the execution phase of multiple ITXs to help other units with their communications planning. He assisted the MAG-49 ACE Combat Operations Center (COC) communications infrastructure. His assistance and planning abilities ensured that the ACE COC was able to manage aviation operations during exercise execution. It also enabled positive and direct communication between the COC and the MASS-6 Air Support Element.

From March 2022 to November 2022 due to a staffing shortfall, Gunnery Sergeant August served as the squadron's Staff Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (SNCOIC), a billet reserved for a Master Sergeant, where he was responsible for the mentorship and accountability of 24 Active-Duty Marines and more than 120 SMCR Marines. Gunnery August also developed the instructional material for multiple command sponsored Corporal's Courses and managed the instruction of these courses which include more than 300 hours of planning, coordination, and instruction to over 10 Marines. To ensured 10 Marines met they're in grade Professional Military Education requirements and were equipped to lead Marines in the future. As the SNCOIC, Gunnery Sergeant August coordinated and supervised more than 20 Military Funeral Honors and six Community Relations events as in the Greater San Diego region.

Gunnery Sergeant Augusts' steadfast deadlines and dedication to mission accomplishment resulted in S-6 being 100% complete on PFT/CFTs and 100% complete on the directed and required annual training. Gunnery Sergeant August commitment to annual and fiscal training is evident after locking on slots for (4) Marines to qualify on the pistol, (37) Marines to qualify on the rifle.

Gunnery Sergeant Augusts' contributions to the unit directly resulted in numerous Marines being recommended and awarded for various unit and personal awards during his tenure. His astute vision, innovative methods, and perceptive intellect benefited not only MASS-6, but also the entire Marine Corps. He demonstrated an uncommon dedication and devotion to the Marine Corps, and his tireless motivation and drive to solve any challenge left MASS-6 as a highly effective and prepared unit within Marine Forces Reserve.

His endeavors in these areas dramatically enhanced the success of MASS-6, not only in mission attainment, but also greatly assisted the site commander in the fostering of a healthy command climate. Through personal example, he continually emphasized that Marines become successful individuals only by being successful Marines. This simple but critical principal has fostered a profoundly positive environment that has poised MASS-6 for continued future success. The successes of his efforts are evident in the fact that his hard work helped to ensure that two Marines were meritoriously promoted under his tenure. Additionally, he facilitated a career counseling PME for all enlisted Marines within the command based off his wealth of knowledge and experience with promotion selection board procedures. His PME significantly enhanced the Marines knowledge of the promotion system and facilitated the future advancement of their careers. Gunnery Sergeant Augusts' intimate knowledge of the revised Enlisted Career Force Controls regulations also ensured the Marines of MASS-6 were afforded every opportunity for continued career advancement. Gunnery Sergeant August was the front runner and coordinator for three retirement ceremonies for Gunnery Sergeant Idrovo, Master Sergeant Nicholson, and Major Moore after serving a wonderful twenty-year career.

Gunnery Augusts' innovated approach to handling delicate situations with his background in recruiting was a particular note that his ability to arbitrate and get to the root of the problem resulted in the resolution of numerous issues at the lowest level. While serving in additional challenging billet assignments hand selected by the Commanding Officer as the Assistant Security Manager, Family Care Plan Coordinator, Ground Safety Officer, and Substance Abuse Control Officer. All staff duties in which Gunnery Sergeant August excelled in the development and maintenance in all functional areas in preparation for future Commanding General Readiness Inspection Program (CGRIP).

Gunnery Sergeant August planned and coordinated the unit's Marine Corps ball for over 200 Active Duty, Reservist, Retirees, and civilian guests. The most remarkable of Gunnery Sergeant August accomplishments was his ability to synchronize operational and logistical constraints while staying within a financial budget and meeting the commander's intent. Gunnery Sergeant August managed the fiscal aspect of the ball, encouraging fundraisers to lower ticket prices, and seeking a variety of vendors for discounted rates. Gunnery Sergeant August sheer charisma and positive attitude resulted in many donations, saving approximately 1,000 dollars. Additionally, he coordinated with the hotel for discounted room rates and shuttle service to and from the event, ensuring Marines and guests arrived and depart the event safely. Gunnery Sergeant August spearheaded and assisted many of the fundraising events for the command, while volunteering himself for the most difficult tasks completing over 20 hours of community service. This included coordinating volunteers during the CI Security Specialists concert event, which raised approximately 350 dollars. Gunnery Sergeant August initiative did not stop there as he led the unit's involvement in the Miramar Air show, scheduling over 72 hours of supervised support, raising approximately 4,500 dollars. Through Gunnery Sergeant August guidance, leadership, and mentorship the unit raised over 5,850 dollars towards a 19,040.44-dollar deficit, approximately 30 percent of the total costs. This drastically contributed to the enrichment and success of the event for all attendees.

For the above actions and for his steadfast devotion to Marine Air Control Group 48 mission and the United States Marine Corps, Gunnery Sergeant August is more than deserving of proper recognition. His insightful judgment, irrefutable skill, and sustained superior performance have been a noted benefit to Marine Corps Forces Reserve operations and have significantly contributed to this command's record of success. Gunnery Sergeant August performance has upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. Gunnery Sergeant August played vital role in the achievement of the commands mission and was a cornerstone of technical knowledge, management skill, and military tradition. His improvements, either self-initiated or implemented under direction, to the Command's operating efficiency have made their lasting mark, with positive-tangible results. His leadership, dedication, and devotion to duty this period truly deserve recognition by the awarding her a Meritorious Service Medal.