Marines Launch (Mock) Attack At Totten

There were plenty of families ready to go face to face with the Marine Corps at Fort Totten on May 29. As part of the citys Fleet Week activities, at 10 a.m., several marines "fast roped" down a helicopter and raided the fort, much to the delight of the families looking on. After they landed the two huge, duel-rotor CH46 Echoes, visitors were invited to meet the marines and tour the copters.
"Flying these is the best job in the Marine Corps," said Corporal Frank, who was 19 years old when he first began to fly.
Inside one copter, Lieutenant Colonel Cavalier explained how the two CH46 Echoes were made in 1968, saw action in Vietnam and in the Gulf war, and will most likely be deployed to Iraq. They are made to take marines and medevac into and out of combat in situations where landing is impossible, using 125 feet of spongy rope. They are also equipped with .50-caliber machine guns and are large enough to haul cargo as well as specialty vehicles.
"The Echoes are incredibly loud," said Corporal Frank. "You could be right next to someone when flying, but without a microphone and helmet, theyd never hear you."
Representatives from the secretary of states office said they would take residents complaints into consideration. Another public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, May 27, at PS 63, located at 90-15 Sutter Avenue in Ozone Park.