A stunning photograph taken during a training session at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms was the Marine Corps’ “Top Shot of the Week,” with over 3,000 likes on Facebook. Reporter Heather Clisby explains…
Lance Corporal Rachel K. Young listened to her gut and snapped a gorgeous shot of Sergeant Derek Levi looking out the back of an Osprey while he was being flown over the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center during aerial flight formation exercises on August 12.
Originally from Foster City, California, the 21-year-old was delighted when the photo was selected as the “Corps Top Shot of the Week” on the USMC Facebook page after receiving the most votes.
“Yeah, I was enthralled because I looked at that shot and I knew how great it was just because of the sunset, the way the Osprey was and his expression. And I have a real sense of mindfulness when I’m out there in the field with my camera where I’m taking everything for what it is.
“Just seeing the comments on the page from his family, from his unit members saying that he’s the best Marine that they’ve worked with, it was moving.” With an early interest in photography, Young believes the role of Public Affairs in the Marine Corps is a crucial one.
“I truly think it’s one of the best photos I’ve taken, so far. It’s capturing history. It’s sealing a moment in time and I think that is the greatest part of my job.”
