Starting a Shooting Team

If you are a Marine and want to start a command-sponsored shooting team, this is an episode you are going to want to listen to. Capt Frank Gao breaks down the processes he took to start his own shooting team aboard Camp Lejeune.

How did you convince your command to allow you to start a team?

Selling the concept to the right people

Winning your commander’s approval

What are the benefits of starting the team?

-marskmanship proficiency (ARQ scores for promotion, identity as Marines)

-leadership development (developing instructors)

-personal pride and motivation (CIAP medals, discipline, accomplishment)

What resources did you use in order to develop a process in emsuring you had all the logistical requirements?

The logistics- how many wpns does your unit have?

Security order 5300 series- ctrl f competition

Transportation of wpns and ammo

Ammo request

From a leadership perspective what are some obstacles and triumphs you have gone through and achieved during this process?

People are more likely to follow something with momentum and initiative

The institution does not make it easy to start new things

Lots of sticks in the mud and gatekeepers- you need to have done your homework. 

What kind of relationships have you developed and how have you utilized them along the way?

You will need good relations with: s4, s3

Find advocates- some conversations are better had at the right level, capitalize on existing relationships (comm to msb XO’s)

You still need to be good at your day job! Avoid bad Marines (poor performance, trying to get out of work, etc)

This will be extra work! Use friends, and expect to work some long hours

What resources did you utilize in order to get participation and develop interest from Marines?

Advocacy- email? Flyers? Social media? Talking to shooters at local matches?

Use commstrat

Face to face interactions are key- do a recruiting pitch, hold info sessions

email:

frank.gao@usmc.mil

Instagram:

@mfgundlach

@tankusthefrankus