Killing Time: Channeling boredom into board games

U.S. Marines with 1st Platoon, Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment play Scrabble in the chow hall to pass time during a sand storm here, Dec. 21. The down time was an exception to the short time they have between the regular rotation of guard post duty and foot patrols — precious moments to unwind by connecting with family, lifting weights, cooking and watching movies. “Passing time like this keeps our minds healthy and helps us stay engaged,” said Lance Cpl. Timothy Kinkade, a 22-year-old fire team leader with1st Platoon, from Levittown, Pa. “On post or patrol, it’s all business. When we have down time, we have to have fun.”