Photo Information Marines with 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, transport canned goods during a hike for those in need at Camp Pendleton, Calif., November 16, 2018. Across the battalion, Marines transported individually donated canned goods for part of a 9-mile hike and donated more than 8,600 pounds of non-perishable food items for service members and respective families in need. I MEF Marines are not only called upon for crisis response in the interest of national security, but also work to sustain those in need at home by supporting the wellbeing of individual service members and their families. (U.S. Marine Corps courtesy photo) Photo by Sgt. Devan Gowans Download Details Share U.S. Marines donate more than 8,600 lbs of food during Hike for the Hungry 16 Nov 2018 | Capt. Maida Zheng I Marine Expeditionary Force PRINT SHARE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- More than 200 Marines and Sailors took part in a ‘Hike for the Hungry,’ on Camp Pendleton, Nov. 16, 2018. 1st Radio Battalion worked with a local charity to collect food donations to carry on the hike. The Marines carried the non-perishable food items during a 9-mile hike to enhance their combat fitness, build resiliency and to donate the food to the community. The Marines collected more than 8,600 pounds of food and carried it for half of the hike until they dropped it off at the first rest point, where they met with the charity organizer. “The carrying of the food and eventual lightening of the load signified to all Marines participating that there will always be someone there to help you out,” explained 2nd Lt. Robert McCain, the 1st Radio Battalion training officer and event coordinator. The second half of the hike included a tear gas exposure drill and a tug-of-war competition. "This was important to accomplish because we represent more than a fighting force,” added McCain. “During any occasion, Marines can be called upon to aid others during a crisis, you don't always have to go across the globe to find someone in need of help. It feels incredible to be a part of an organization that ensures that no matter what, Marines will always get the job done and take care of those who need help." 1st Radio Battalion dropped off the food at Blinder Memorial Chapel aboard Camp Pendleton, Nov. 20, 2018, to help serve those in need.