Page 6 - The Honorable Stories of Veterans in Our Mundo

What did a typical day look like in the military?

I served in the United States Marine Corps, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, as a
Demolitions Engineer in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and forward deployed in
direct support of combat operations in Afghanistan, with 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Unit.
Depending on whether we were home or abroad, our days typically consisted of various
military and schooling endeavors. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA, our days
usually started at 4:30 a.m. with personal training, followed by theoretical studies on
structural and electrical engineering, and trainings for arming, disarming, and creating
explosive charges in demolition rangers and other controlled environments. While
overseas, we put our training to practice in support of our 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Unit
Marines, and supported several other military outfits, including Australia’s Special
Operations Task Force 66 (TF66), as well as French and British task force operations in
mounted and dismounted missions across Helmand Providence.

What inspired you to serve?

Coming from a military family, I’ve always respected and admired those who serve. My
uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather were all pilots in the Airforce. From a young age,
I had always noticed both my grandfather and uncle carried themselves differently than
others; in some way, more proud, more calm under stress, more accomplished, and were
very well respected among their friends and local communities. I was very drawn and
influenced by them, which ultimately led me to join the military myself.

What learnings did you take away that you still use to this day?

While I believe that my time in service helped mold me into the person I am today, one
of the most important things I learned was how to work as a team. Teamwork, while easy
to define, is not easily accomplished. The Marine Corps does a very good job at stripping
you of your individuality, and building you back up to better understand the importance of
CARLOS LAYLLE working together toward a common goal. We call it camaraderie. We succeed as one and
Manager, EHS fail as one. While our individuality is an important component of our self-identity, I always
Military Role: Demolitions Engineer at try to maintain this sense of camaraderie in the workplace because like in the military, we
19 Years Old are all working toward a common goal. Having a strong sense of trust and teamwork make
us more effective and efficient in the services we provide to our clients.