Marine Corps Pfc. Robert J. Rooney, nephew of Barbara A. Manger of Lindenhurst, and more than 2,100 Marines and Sailors assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), recently joined the

15,000 servicemember sweep of Fallujah, and has since committed to ensuring the security and stability in the cities Kandari and Nasar Wa Salam.

Members of Rooney’s unit have conducted more than 120 patrols, 13 platoon reinforced raids and a company reinforced search of Kandari. Most importantly they insured that the 1st Marine Division did not have to worry about their rear supply routes and communications during the fight in Fallujah.

MEU’s are built around a reinforced infantry battalion, a combat service support element, a reinforced helicopter squadron and a command element. With its complement of fully integrated air and ground forces, Rooney’s unit is ready to conduct real-world operations including amphibious, helicopter and boat raids, tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, noncombatant evacuation operations and humanitarian assistance operations.

Rooney is a 2002 graduate of Lindenhurst High School and joined the Marine Corps in June 2003.