Scribbles and Rushes

I realized earlier today as I looked at some sketchbooks from Mojave Viper in August, that I hadn't posted all the sketches I had done (or at least all of the presentable sketches--you know how it is...)

While at Mohave Viper, I was able to sketch frequently from life, even when things were moving fast, and here are some of the products of those times:photo of me sketching as the machine gunners did their thing

These sketches happened during a mock assault on a "enemy" positions, in which the weapons platoon took up positions overlooking the assault area, and laid down fire on the enemy strong points across the valley, as the infantry assaulted.

After sprinting up the hill in full gear and body armor in 100 degree heat, I can tell you that drawing becomes a bit difficult! (witness the scribbley line quality...) .

The value in these drawings is that you get good practice in quick contour drawing, telling only what's necessary for the image. Note also that down in the corner I listed the date and time the events were sketched.
Here is a life sketch of the crew of gun #3 of Weapons Company, 2/25, as they do their thing bringing the hurt to a target out in the desert. I had to sketch through several "hangs" of the mortar round as they fired and adjusted fire, so what you see in the finished product is a composite of several moments of firing, depicting the moment as the mortarman hangs the round before dropping it and sending it downrange:These two sketches depict radio men as they talk to forward observers and the fire control center to adjust fire on the target:Marines I sketched as they were watching being briefed on the upcoming assault course: