Marines

HEROZ: Camp Lejeune's first all ranks facility in years

22 Mar 2006 | Lance Cpl. Adam Johnston Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

Batman, Superman and Spider-Man; three of the world’s most recognizable superheroes. For years, kids and adults alike have been reading their comic books, watching their cartoons and going to their movies. This nation’s fascination of people with things like the ability to fly, superhuman strength or x-ray vision has drawn millions to this genre. But after the events of September 11, 2001, citizens of the United States quickly realized that you don’t need super powers to be called a hero. In reality, anyone can be a hero; all it takes is a heroic act. For Marines who are deployed in support of the global war on terrorism, they regularly perform acts of heroism on a daily basis. So for them, and for all the Marines who continue to serve and protect this great nation, Heroz was officially opened for business Jan. 23.The first all-ranks facility aboard Camp Lejeune in years, Heroz is a safe place for Marines to spend their liberty, either after working hours or on the weekends.“This is something that’s been needed on this base for some time now,” said Cindy Eby, the manager of Heroz. “If officers and staff NCOs can have clubs, then it’s only fair for Marines E-5 and below to have a place they can call their own.”Heroz serves food and alcoholic beverages, has video games and pool tables and features 11 big screen televisions, seven of which are high definition plasma screen TV’s.“The facility is geared towards Marines and sailors who live in the barracks and within walking distance,” said Eby. Before deploying to Iraq, Cpl. Kyle Nelson, a combat engineer with 1st Platoon, Alpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, along with other Marines from his unit, could not think of a better place on base to spend their last few hours in the U.S. than at Heroz.“Going out in town can be a big hassle, especially if you don’t have a vehicle,” said Nelson. “Fortunately, my barracks is only about 300 yards away from here. The place is clean, the service is great and the food isn’t too expensive. Plus, you can come here in cammies.”Another good reason to check out Heroz is the free video game play on Single Marine Program Appreciation nights. Two Wednesdays each month, from 6 to 9 p.m., Marines can hit the arcade at no cost to their wallets.“The Single Marine Program and Heroz both serve the same clientele,” said Eby. “Through this partnership, we expose our customers to the SMP, and SMP members are exposed to Heroz. It’s a win-win situation.”Even though it’s only been in existence for a little less than two months, Heroz is quickly becoming known as one of the base’s premier facilities where Marines can come together and gain fellowship with one another. “Unlike out in town, we’re not here just to take your money and turn a profit,” said Eby. “We truly care about each and every person who comes through our door. If I can touch just one Marine’s life and show him or her how much they are appreciated, then I’ve done my job.”Heroz is open Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. until midnight, Friday from 5 p.m. until 1 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon until 1 a.m.