MEMORIAL DAY WOD: "Morel"

21-15-9
Burpees,
Ammo Can Press,
tire flip (vice drag),
200 meter run

   

The WOD is named for Capt. Brent Morel USMC, who was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was killed in Action April 7th, 2004.

1. While escorting a convoy in Iraq’s Anbar province April 7, 2004, Morel’s platoon was attacked by more than 40 insurgents. During the ambush, Morel left his vehicle and sprinted 100 meters across an open field while carrying his gear and weapon. The 200-meter run simulates his physical output.

2. Morel and his men took cover behind a berm, where they were pinned down by enemy fire. The burpees simulate Morel’s motion as he looked for opportunities to get over the berm.

3. Once Morel and his men climbed over the berm, they crossed a chest-deep muddy canal and scaled another berm. The tire drag simulates their struggle to cross the water.

4. The ammo-can press represents Morel’s exertion during close-in fighting. He and his Marines also lobbed several grenades at the enemy.

Navy Cross Citation

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Brent Lee Morel, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Platoon Commander, Second Platoon, Company B, First Reconnaissance Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, First Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 7 April 2004. Captain Morel's platoon escorted a convoy into the Al Anbar Province when 40 to 60 insurgents in well-fortified and concealed positions initiated an ambush. Witnessing a rocket-propelled grenade crippling his lead vehicle and while mortar and machine gun fire erupted, he ordered his remaining two vehicles to secure a flanking position. Captain Morel left his vehicle and led a determined assault across an open field and up a 10-foot berm, in order to maneuver into firing positions. The boldness of this first assault eliminated several insurgents at close range forcing their retreat. Observing his Marines pinned down from enemy fire, Captain Morel left the safety of his position and continued the assault, eliminating the enemy's attack. During this valiant act, he fell mortally wounded by a withering burst of enemy automatic weapons fire. By his outstanding display of decisive leadership, unlimited courage in the face of heavy enemy fire, and utmost devotion to duty, Captain Morel reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.