iii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

june 17, 2011 www.okinawa.usmc.mil

Cpl. Jovane M. Henryokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — General James F. Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal P. Barrett, visited Marines and sailors of III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Bases Japan during a visit to Okinawa June 12-14.

The visit provided an opportunity for the Corps’ highest-ranking leaders to interact with Marines and sailors, impart guidance and gain insight into the day-to-day lives and con-cerns of personnel and their families.

“The visit by the commandant and sergeant major of the Marine Corps highlights the importance of III MEF as a force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck, commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force and commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan. “The event provides a unique opportunity for the Marines and sailors stationed on Okinawa to hear first-hand the commandant’s intent

and the strategic vision for our Corps’ future. Additionally, it enabled III MEF personnel to voice their ideas, questions and concerns to the high-est levels of our Corps’ leadership.”

Amos and Barrett toured Marine Corps camps on Okinawa during their stay, taking time at each camp to address Marines in packed gymna-siums, hangars and dining facilities.

During his address, the com-mandant highlighted the efforts of Marines and sailors from III MEF in humanitarian assistance

Pfc. Daniel E. Valleokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — More than 450 Marines with 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, de-parted from Okinawa to East Fuji in mainland Japan to take part in the Artillery Relocation Training Program 11-1 June 13.

The battalion, part of 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, will use this exercise to maintain operational readiness. The East Fuji training area is where artillery Marines train to respond effectively to potential threats in the Asia-Pacific region.

“The purpose of conducting artillery live fire is for us to maintain our operational readiness – our combat readiness as a unit,”

CORPSMEN

in t

his

issu

e NON-LETHAL TRAININGNOLES ‘11 concludes non-lethal weapons demonstrations with

Thai service members.

Pgs. 6-7

Capt. Caleb D. Eames31st meu public affairs

KADENA AIR BASE — The ‘War Dogs’ of Twen-tynine Palms, Calif., began arriving here June 3 to join the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit as the new battalion landing team.

Second Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, known as the ‘War Dogs,’ based out of Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., is replacing 2nd Bn., 5th Marines, whose Marines are headed home to California after completing a successful spring deployment with the 31st MEU.

The more than 1,200 Marines and sailors of 2nd Bn., 7th Marines, become the new ground combat element of the 31st MEU, and are scheduled to participate in the upcoming regular deployment to the Asia-Pacific region.

“We have had a lot of good training in Twen-tynine Palms and Camp Pendleton over the past months, all to get us ready to come out here to the

MEU,” said Lt. Col. Donald Tomich, command-ing officer, 2nd Bn., 7th Marines. “Our Marines have worked hard to get here, and we are looking forward to the deployment with the 31st MEU.”

The battalion comes to the MEU with attached artillery, Amphibious Assault Vehicles and Light Armored Vehicles, enhancing the ability of the MEU to conduct the wide range of missions.

“This is the first time for a lot of our guys to get out of the United States, so we are anticipating do-ing training with other nations’ militaries to gain shared experiences,” said Tomich. “We want to continue to contribute to the tradition of excellence that has gone before us here with the 31st MEU.”

The battalion’s previous deployment with the 31st MEU was last year, and before then, the battal-ion was deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

The battalion’s deployed experiences will be put to good use as they have a busy schedule

‘War Dogs’ arrive to join 31st MEU

Corps’ top leaders visit Okinawa

see CMC pg 5

see WAR DOGS pg 5 see ARTP pg 5

CORPSMEN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Marines depart for artillery training

Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps, left, and Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Michael P. Barrett, right, spoke with Marines on Camp Hansen, including Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary unit, about current events involving the Corps and its future, June 13. Both spoke about the progress being made in Afghanistan, the difference the Marines on Okinawa made during Operation Tomodachi and took time to answer questions from Marines. Photo by Lance Cpl. Alejandro Peña

June 17

Cpl. Jovane M. Hnry

My dad is a superhero. Really. Since the beginning of time, sons and daughters around the world

have believed their fathers are invincible, but mine really is.

My dad can bench press 425 pounds, has won countless medals in weightlift-ing, billiards, bowling, rugby, basketball, table tennis and softball. He has scuba dived and raced bicycles and cur-rently serves as a spokes-man and model for Van Products Incorporated, the Durham Bulls and the Carolina Hurricanes.

Did I mention I’ve nev-er seen my father walk because he’s been para-lyzed and in a wheelchair since I was two years old?

My family was sta-tioned in Fairbanks, Alaska, when my father, an Army staff sergeant, fell asleep at the wheel on an eight-hour trip home from Anchorage.

His car flipped seven times before hitting a street light, leaving my dad in a coma for more than a week and paralyz-ing him from the waist down.

During his subsequent rehabilitation, my father had to relearn and master the most basic of skills—brushing his teeth, eating, dressing himself, holding me and moving around.

Times were hard for a while, but my father is and has always been the most persevering and determined person I know, and he never gave up or resigned himself to a life of immobility behind closed doors.

I grew up watching my father accomplish

goals some said he could never achieve. Not only is he my hero and friend, but he is a perfect example of the kind of person I strive to become in life.

My adoration and desire to be just like him are ever-present in my mind, not just on Father’s Day.

Far too often, Father’s Day is the only time we really sit down to meditate on who our fathers are and what they mean

to us.Whether he is your

best friend, worst enemy or not even a factor in your life, your father has had some impact on the values, goals and morals you decided to embrace, and, overall, the per-son you’ve become.

From a young age, many of us watched our fathers stand up for us, believe in us, pro-tect us, discipline us when we were wrong and praise us when we succeeded.

We owe our fathers more than an annual gift, call and card to let him know he is the best father ever.

We must constantly strive to emulate the positive characteristics displayed by our fathers and father figures.

It is the ultimate compliment to our fa-thers, who raised us through blood, sweat, tears and the teenage years.

Exhibiting those admirable qualities is also an opportunity to better ourselves day-by-day into the highly successful, productive citizens we hope to become.

After all, who doesn’t want to be like Superman?

Holland is a combat correspondent with the Okinawa Marine.

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press offiCer 2nd Lt. Evan A. Almaas

press Chief Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr.

design editor Audra A. Satterlee

AroundCorpst

he

Cpl. Elijah Hoffberg, a fire team leader with Landing Force Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, starts a fire after Rangers with Charl ie Company, 8th Royal Ranger Regiment, Malaysian Army Rangers taught the Marines about jungle survival at Eram Sisik Training Area, Kemaman Terengganu, Malaysia, June 10. The Marines are participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2011. Photo by Cpl. Aaron Hostutler

Cpl. Micah D. Carlton, a squad leader and designated marksman for 81mm Mortar Platoon, Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, talks to local villagers recently while on patrol in Sangin, Afghanistan. I understand what it takes to win this fight, said Carlton. The best way to win over the populace is to show the locals that we, along with the Afghan National Army, are a better option for their future. Photo by Cpl. Benjamin Crilly

Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Ray Mabus presents the Navy Cross to Staff Sgt Juan J. Rodriguez-Chavez and Capt. Ademola D. Fabayo, left, during a ceremony at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, Triangle, Va., June 10. The Navy Cross is the nation’s second highest award for valor. The two Marines were decorated for their actions against the enemy while serving as members of Marine Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7, 201st Corps, Afghan National Army, in Kunar province, Afghanistan, Sept. 8, 2009. Photo by Sgt. Christopher Zahno

2 okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | June 17, 2011

Whether he is your best friend, worst enemy or not even a factor in your life, your father has had some impact on the values, goals and morals you decided to embrace, and, overall, the person you’ve become.

Emulating SuperherosFather figures make impact

3okinawa marine | NEWS | June 17, 2011

Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr.okinawa marine staff

CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKI-NAWA, Japan — More than 230 Marines from 7th Communication Battalion deployed to Landing Zone Dodo here to conduct a field training exercise June 6.

The battalion, attached to III Ma-rine Expeditionary Force Headquar-ters Group, III MEF, is conducting FTX 1-11 to test and enhance the military occupational skills of the Marines within the battalion.

“The objective of the FTX (was) two-fold: to test our operational capa-bility, while increasing our Marines’ occupational expertise,” said Lt. Col. Carlos Urbina, 7th Comm. Bn., com-manding officer.

This exercise enhanced all of the battalion’s Marines, from the com-municators down to the maintenance and support Marines, added Urbina.

The Marines learned a lot of new things, said Sgt. Maj. John Calhoun, the battalion sergeant major. Not just the newer Marines to the unit, but the experienced Marines gained knowledge as well.

The battalion’s first FTX of the year combined two different types of exercises.

Simultaneously, the battalion conducted a III MEF Headquarters

Group-directed strategic-mobility ex-ercise, as well as an FTX, said Urbina.

A SME, also known as displace-ments and jumps, involves moving a unit to a forward location by com-pletely tearing down equipment and setting back up at a new site, said Urbina.

“What you (saw) in LZ Dodo is how we would support a MEF-level operation,” added Urbina.

Marines began setup of the FTX site June 9 in what Urbina calls “glorious, amphibious Marine Corps weather.”

Putting more than 230 Marines in the field is no easy feat, and to do it in 36 hours demonstrates the battalion’s proficiency, said Urbina.

The FTX was an 11-day evolution that was conducted throughout the CTA.

In a deployed environment, Marines must be able to adapt to changing battlefield demands. This exercise allowed Marines to gain confidence in this type of scenario, according to Urbina.

The pressure resulting from Ma-rines depending on each other and having to troubleshoot situations adds to the skill set of these Marines, added Calhoun.

“Out here you deal with the equip-ment in real situations … you’re under pressure,” said Pfc. Brittany McKenzie, a radio operator with the battalion.

Other Marine Corps-related train-ing was included in the FTX.

“In addition to individual MOS training, we’re also working on combat skills,” said Urbina. “Every Marine a rifleman, so we are pushing

out security patrols at night. They’re strapping on a rifle, pulling down the (night vision goggles) and going out on patrols.”

Corpsmen conducted a combat-lifesaver class with the Marines as well, to equip the Marines with the knowledge to potentially save a life if put in that situation, added Urbina.

Another facet of the training is adjusting to life in the field.

“I think the Marines learned a lot about basic field living, actually being out in the dirt and mud,” said Calhoun. “Nothing bonds Marines like being out in the field.

“They’re loving it, they’re staying motivated,” Calhoun added about the Marines’ attitude toward the training.

“I enjoy it,” said McKenzie. “Ev-erything you learn gets tested.”

7th Communication Bn. enhances MOS proficiency

Marines with 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, set up equipment at Landing Zone Dodo, Central Training Area, Okinawa, June 6. More than 230 Marines traveled to LZ Dodo for a field training exercise. Photo by Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr.

Pfc. Erik Brooksokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Okinawa this year broke the NMCRS Okinawa record for donations as part of a single drive during their annual Active Duty Fund Drive conducted here from March 22 through May 31.

The NMCRS is a non-profit organization known for helping Marines and sailors with everyday life problems, offering a variety of programs from loans to financial manage-ment classes. The relief society also helps with unexpected emergencies requiring financial assistance. The purpose of the ADFD was to create funds to support such programs.

The NMCRS Okinawa received over $463,000 in donations during the drive. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing donated the most, with over $122,000 collected.

They achieved this record number by the hard work of all involved, said Kristin Ste-phens, the director of NMCRS Okinawa.

“We have been really putting our name out there more than what we used to,” said Stephens.

The NMCRS Okinawa increased awareness during this year’s drive by having a weekly spot on the American Forces Network and by plac-ing posters all over the bases, said Stephens.

“It’s primarily a reflection of what our co-ordinator did. This year our coordinator, Lt. Col. Bryan C. Corcoran, really went above and

beyond,” she said.The money from the drive will go to creat-

ing and improving classes and services, said Stephens.

“The donations from the drive will (improve) services by hiring more staff to make the programs much smoother,” said Master Sgt. Armando Quintanilla, the assistant coordina-tor for the drive.

An additional goal for the donations from the ADFD is to improve customer service, so service members leave happy and continue to use NMCRS.

All active-duty or retired Marines and sailors are eligible for all services the NMCRS provides, said Stephens.

This year, NMCRS Okinawa has helped 285 Marines and sailors attain financial assistance or non-financial assistance. They have also loaned $17,981 to Marines and sailors needing educational loans.

“Even though the actual drive is over, the NMCRS is still accepting donations as they do year round,” said Stephens. “Volunteers are always needed for a variety of jobs, typically receptionists and caseworkers.”

So far, the Okinawa branch of NMCRS is in the top five donations recipients worldwide, said Stephens.

The coordinators of the ADFD are scheduled to receive an award July 7, said Stephens.

For more information on the program or to find out how to get involved call the NMCRS at 645-7808 or visit www.nmcrs.org.

Navy Marine Corps Relief Society breaks record

HattonHenderson

Col. Clarke D. Henderson assumed command of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, from Col. Jay L. Hatton during a ceremony on Camp Foster June 13. Hatton has commanded CLR-3 since June 2009 and will become the director of the Marine Corps War College in Quantico, Va. Henderson’s previous assignment was at Marine Corps Bases Japan where he served as the assistant chief of staff, Facilities Engineering division, since September 2010.

CLR-3 welcomes Henderson

Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Wetzelheadquarters marine corps 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — “The Marines in uniform today, every single one of them, had a choice and they all chose to serve. I get to serve them, and I am privileged to get to serve in this capacity,” said newly appointed Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal P. Barrett after taking the reins as the senior enlisted advisor to the Comman-dant of the Marine Corps.

Barrett became the 17th ser-geant major of the Marine Corps during a relief and appointment ceremony June 9 at Marine Bar-racks Washington as Sgt. Maj. Carl-ton W. Kent retired from the Corps.

It was 90-degrees and humid in the 210-year-old Marine post in downtown Washington, D.C., when the sword of office was handed to Barrett, signifying the transition in responsibility. None-theless, all Marines in attendance were in their “dress blues,” a uni-form known for distinguishing Marines since the 1800s.

The warm night only intensified when two of the Corps’ top enlisted Marines took center stage during the ceremony to deliver genuine comments. Their voices bellowed through the post’s courtyard cor-ridors—Kent reflecting on his 35-year career and Barrett sharing anecdotes of Marines he has met and the excitement on becoming the senior-enlisted leader of a “fear-less and selfless” force.

“I expect all of our Marines to continue to be selfless. I expect our Marines to continue to sacrifice for one another. I expect our Marines to continue to do brave deeds and

endure the tough times that lay ahead,” Barrett said.

The position of sergeant major of the Marine Corps was established in 1957 and was the first such post in any of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Typically, it is a duty served for four years at the commandant’s discretion.

Barrett praised Kent for his successful tour and said he plans to carry on from where Kent left off—to “work in line with the com-mandant’s priorities and modern-ize the force.”

“I’m going to be focused on all the issues. I’m going to give it all of my effort. I’m going to give it all of my energies, and I’m going to en-thusiastically continue to coalesce the team,” Barrett said.

Before the appointment that brought Barrett to his current post, he was serving as the sergeant major of I Marine Expeditionary Force’s 1st Marine Division, a combat-ready unit of almost 20,000 Marines and sailors headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Pend-leton, Calif.

He recently returned from a deployment to Helmand province, Afghanistan, where he served as the Regional Command Southwest sergeant major.

Sgt. Maj. Anthony Spadaro said to consider the appointment of Bar-rett a warning order—“everyone better bring their ‘A-game’ when he’s around.” Spadaro was the ser-geant major of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), I MEF, the unit, recently deployed to Afghanistan, responsible for supporting Bar-rett and his Marines conducting combat operations in Helmand province.

“Duty is not just a sublime word to Sgt. Maj. Barrett. It’s everything to him,” said Spadaro. “We’re talk-ing about a transcendental Marine who’s ideal for the part.”

In addition to a leader of Ma-rines in a combat zone, Barrett was a sniper early in his career, made Marines as a drill instructor and led Marines on the forward edge of the war zone – to include two tours to Iraq as battalion sergeant major of the battle-hardened 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment.

“The man is a warfighter,” said Kent, describing Barrett. “And, he’s a leader. The Marine Corps is in great shape because of the leaders that we have.”

Kent said he is going to do “the most important thing” a Marine should do when he retires from the Corps—spend quality time with his family.

THIRD ANNUAL AMERICAN RED CROSS DERBY DAY

The American Red Cross will host the Third Annual American Red Cross Derby Day, “Racing to the Rescue” June 18 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Marek Park on Kadena Air Base.

There will be food, entertainment and the derby race.

HE ADqUARTERS MARINE CORpS MARSOC SCREENINg TEAM vISIT

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command will be visiting Okinawa to seek out qualified Marines to serve with MARSOC. MARSOC is scheduled to visit Marines at the following theaters:

June 20 - Camp Schwab, 9 a.m.June 21 - Camp Hansen, 9 a.m.June 22 - Camp Hansen, 9 a.m.June 23 - Camp Kinser, 9 a.m.June 24 - Camp Foster, 9 a.m.

FLEA MARkET LOCATION CHANgEThe Marine Corps Community

Services flea market was scheduled for June 18 and 19 on Camp Kinser and will instead be held noon-3 p.m. at the Camp Foster location on the same days.

For more information, visit www.mccsokinawa.com/fleamarket or call 645-5829.

NE W L ANgUAgE pROgR AM FOR MARINES AND FAMILIES

The USMC contract for Rosetta Stone will end July 20. However, Marines, family members and other eligible library patrons will continue to have access to Mango Languages through the MCCS Library Program. Mango is an online language-learning system teaching actual conversation skills for a wide variety of languages. There are 12 language options and four English as a Second Language programs available.

Visit your local MCCS library for more information or call 645-7178.

LINkS FOR kIDSLINKS for Kids will be held June 21

from noon-3 p.m. at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster.

Children ages 6-10 can connect with other children by sharing real-life experiences and discovering positive ways to deal with the challenges of growing up in the military. There will be crafts, games, discussions, snacks and more. This workshop is free and registration is required.

For more information, or to register, contact 645-3689.

RECYCLINg BENTO BOxESThe MCB Recycling Center will

no longer be accepting plastic food containers, specifically “bento boxes,” due to remnant food waste in the boxes.

This guidance applies only to work areas and barracks on Marine Corps installations on Okinawa. It does not apply to tenants of Military Family Housing.

For more information, contact MCBJ Recycling Center at 645-3139.

BRIEfS

TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to okinawamarine.mcbb.fct@usmc.mil, or fax your request to 645-3803. The deadline for submitting a brief is noon Friday. Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit all submitted material.

4 okinawa marine | NEWS | June 17, 2011

‘Warfighter’ takes charge as new sergeant major of the Marine Corps

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos hands the sword of office to Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal P. Barrett during a relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington June 9.Photo by Sgt. Michael S. Cifuentes

Retired Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Carlton W. Kent and his wife, Liz, wave goodbye at the conclusion of the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps relief and appointment ceremony at Marine Barracks Washington June 9, 2011. Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Wetzel

and disaster relief response to mainland Japan’s March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami, known as Operation Tomodachi.

“What all of you did up in mainland Japan is evidence of what the Corps does not only for our nation, but for other nations as well,” said Amos. “The entire world was watching, and the Government of Japan, along with the citizens of Sendai, will never forget what you have done.”

Operation Tomodachi dem-onstrated the importance of the Marine Corps’ forward presence in Japan.

“We respond to today’s crisis, with today’s force, today,” said Amos.

After each brief, the comman-dant and sergeant major opened the floor, fielding questions from

Marines and sailors.Questions asked ranged from

pre-deployment training for corpsmen to the logistics and new goals of the body composi-tion program.

The commandant discussed Marines’ use of revolutionary technology and critical thinking to overcome energy challenges.

“In Afghanistan, Marines are already extremely innovative in adapting to energy issues,” said Amos. “I am aiming for the Marine Corps to lead the pack and set the pace among the other branches in going green, while continuously accomplishing the mission.”

Marines gathered around the sergeant major as he imparted infectious motivation and voiced his praises and expectations.

“I’m truly humbled to be visit-ing with you all,” said Barrett.

“I’ve been asked hundreds of times by hundreds of people what it is about the Marine Corps, and I’m constantly passing the message about the selfless and fearless Marines we have in the fight. I consider it an honor to be serving in this capacity for all of you.”

The appearance marked a spe-cial moment for Marines who had never had the opportunity to meet or speak with the commandant and sergeant major.

“The fact that they both made the effort to come out and hear our questions and concerns speak volumes,” said Lance Cpl. Court-ney Rushin, a mail clerk with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. “It shows they care to learn about issues on our level and keep us informed about what’s going on at a strategic level.”

The visit also resonated with older Marines, many of whom said they understood the positive impact of their Marines meeting the commandant in person.

“It is great that the comman-dant can get out and talk to his Marines and sailors. This allows him an opportunity to demon-strate leadership at the highest level,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Vincent Smith, the equal oppor-tunity advisor for G-7, III MEF. “Coming here to Okinawa, he can tell his Marines and sailors firsthand what our mission is as a Corps and how he intends to get it done, while at the same time taking care of the welfare of those who serve under his charge.”

said Lt. Col. Ricardo Miagany, command-ing officer for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. “It provides good training for the Marines.”

The purpose is to maintain proficiency in artillery weapons which allows Marines to be ready when called upon, said Staff Sgt. Rodrigo Arias-Hernandez, Battery gunnery sergeant, Headquarters Battery, 3rd Bn., 12th Marines.

“A key part of 3rd Bn., 12th Marines’, mis-sion is that we are part of the Marine Corps’ unit deployment program,” said Miagany. “The headquarters of 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, is made up of permanent personnel here on Okinawa, but the firing batteries come as part of the UDP for a period of six months.”

The units participating in ARTP include Headquarters Battery, 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, from Okinawa, and Kilo Battery, 3rd Bn., 10th Marines, and Romeo Battery, 5th Bn., 10th Marines, both from Camp Lejeune, N.C.

The Marines conduct sustainment train-ing to remain ready to maintain peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region, said Miagany.

Firing is scheduled from June 18-30. They will also conduct crew-served weapons and small arms training at East Fuji.

“We fire crew-served weapons because we, as an artillery unit, have a lot of crew-served weapons to support and defend our artillery,” said Arias-Hernandez. “We always like to take part in this exercise be-cause it helps to make sure that we perform to our highest standards and keeps high morale within the unit.”

Miagany agreed with the importance of refamiliarization training with crew-served weapons.

“Anytime we conduct live-fire training, we want to train with our offensive and defensive weapons systems,” said Miagany. “Our primary offensive weapon system is the (M777A2 Howitzer), but we also train with our defensive weapon systems to make sure we are able to provide fire and defend ourselves.”

This training is essential to maintain-ing ties and operational readiness with our Japanese allies.

“The Japan Self-Defense Force often comes to watch us and see how we per-form, which helps our relationship,” said Arias-Hernandez.

5okinawa marine | NEWS | June 17, 2011

PalazzoMartinez

Lt. Col. Kendall A. Martinez assumed command of 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, from Lt. Col. Louis J. Palazzo during a ceremony on Camp Hansen July 15. Palazzo has commanded 5th ANGLICO since June 2009, and his next duty assignment will be at G-3 , III MEF. Martinez’s previous assignment was in Quantico, Va., where he served as deputy director, Seabasing Integration Division, Headquarters Marine Corps Combat Development and Integration, since June 2009.

5th ANGLICO receives Martinez

CMC from pg 1

over the next several months preparing for a wide range of possible missions in every imaginable climate.

“There is a huge difference in the climate here,” said Sgt. Jacob Hawken, Personal Security Detail platoon sergeant, Headquarters and Service Company, 2nd Bn., 7th Marines. “As soon as we

got here, it was raining. We just came from a very dry climate in Twentynine Palms, and, as soon as we got off the plane, we got soaked.”

The Marines and sailors of 2nd Bn., 7th Ma-rines, are expected to participate in exercises designed to increase bilateral teamwork, enhance security cooperation and conduct training together with partner nations in the Asia-Pacific region.

WAR DOGS from pg 1

ARTP from pg 1

LindemannWalzer

Lt. Col. Jordan D. Walzer assumed command of 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, from Lt. Col. Michael J. Lindemann Jr. during a ceremony on Camp Hansen June 10. Lindemann has commanded the battalion since April 2009 and will become the deputy assistant chief of staff, G-2, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF. Walzer’s previous assignment was as the deputy assistant chief of staff, G-2, 1st MAW, where he served since August 2010.

3rd Intel welcomes Walzer

Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps, presents a challenge coin to a Marine from 3rd Marines Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, during a town hall meeting at the Surfside Club on Camp Kinser June 13. Amos was impressed with the lance corporal’s question and presented him with the memento. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr.

okinawa marine | FEATURE | June 17, 20116

Story and photos by Sgt. Heather Brewer

okinawa marine staff

Marines and sailors with Special Operations Training Group and Military Police Support

Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, along with nearly 150 personnel

from the Thai military and police forces and delegates from nearly 30 countries around the world gath-ered to observe a demonstration at the Non-Lethal Weapons Executive Seminar 2011 in Chonburi, King-dom of Thailand, June 8.

NOLES ‘11, which took place from May 30 to June 10, is U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific’s premiere mul-tilateral theater security cooperation

event for non-lethal weapons and is designed to promote awareness of non-lethal weapons use to maintain order in low-intensity scenarios. Due to the significant variance of non-lethal weapons’ capabilities from country to country, the seminar seeks to improve interoperability between partner nations.

Over the course of NOLES ‘11, instructors from SOTG and MP Sup-port Company have given classes and practical application sessions covering topics including com-munications skills, crowd-control dynamics, pressure-point control techniques, mechanical-advantage control holds, baton techniques, non-lethal munitions, the human electro-muscular incapacitation device, also known as an X-26 Taser,

and oleoresin capsicum spray, more commonly called OC spray.

“I would like to thank the govern-ment and military of Thailand for the opportunity to participate in this very effective training session,” said Maj. Gen. Mark A. Brilakis, commanding general of 3rd Ma-rine Division, III MEF. “The spirit and enthusiasm was evident and is indicative of the superior training that has taken place over the past two weeks.”

In addition to strengthening military-to-military ties with a partner nation, NOLES ‘11 presented U.S. Marines an opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge with Thai counterparts.

“We have gained a lot of knowl-edge to take back to our units and

Marines, Thai military conclude training

Marines with SOTG and MP Support Company, both from III MHG, and members of the Royal Thai military and police forces participate in non-lethal weapons use demonstrations June 8, as part of NOLES ‘11 in Chonburi, Kingdom of Thailand.

Marines with SOTG and MP Support

Company, III MHG, expose members of the Thai army

and police force to oleoresin capsicum

spray May 30, as part of NOLES ‘11, in Chonburi, Thailand.

A Marine with Special Operations Training Group and Military Police Support Company, both from III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, and members of the Royal Thai military and police forces discuss the functions of the X-26 Taser June 8. This followed a non-lethal weapons-use demonstration, part of NOLES ‘11 in Chonburi, Kingdom of Thailand.

share with them,” said Royal Thai Army Lt. Thaweesub Phuttiwanich. “The U.S. Marines will also be able to take what they have learned from interacting with us and use it in the future when they work with other nations.”

Scenarios were acted out during the demonstration depicting the use of riot-control techniques, vehicle checkpoints, batons, OC spray and non-lethal munitions.

“The demonstration was an outstanding example of what was taught and learned,” said Lt. Col. Rafford Coleman, the assistant officer-in-charge of SOTG. “It’s a testament of the overall effectiveness of this type of training for use in real-world situations.”

Despite the heat and discomfort

from some of the training events, both the Thai service members and U.S. Marines made positive impres-sions on one another.

“The training was very beneficial for us,” said Royal Thai Army Sgt. Eakpol Srisomkiew. “We worked very well with the Marines and cemented the friendship between our nations.”

The success of the exercise was due in part to the quick bonding that took place between the U.S. Marines and Thai service members.

“The Marines bonded with the Thai people in a way that clearly displayed their enthusiasm for what they do,” said Coleman. “They rep-resented III MEF, the U.S. Naval Ser-vice and our nation in a fashion that was honorable and commendable.”

okinawa marine | FEATURE | June 17, 2011 7

Marines, Thai military conclude training

Members of the Royal Thai military and police forces demonstrate the use of oleoresin capsicum, more commonly known as OC spray, as part of the Non-Lethal Weapons Executive Seminar 2011 in Chonburi, Kingdom of Thailand, June 8. NOLES ‘11, which took place from May 30 to June 10, is U.S.

Marine Corps Forces, Pacific’s premiere multilateral theater security cooperation event for non-lethal weapons and is designed to promote awareness of non-lethal weapons use to maintain order in low-intensity scenarios. Due to the significant variance of non-lethal weapons capabilities from country to

country, the seminar seeks to improve interoperability between partner nations.

Marines with SOTG and MP Support Company, both from III MHG, and members of the Royal Thai military and police forces participate in non-lethal weapons use demonstrations June 8, as part of NOLES ‘11 in Chonburi, Kingdom of Thailand.

Service members from the Thai military and police force assist a Marine from SOTG, III MHG, who was just exposed to a X-26 Taser during a demonstration May 30, as part of NOLES ‘11, in Chonburi, Thailand.

8 okinawa marine | FEATURE | June 17, 2011

Cpl. Aaron Hostutlerokinawa marine staff

Marines and sailors of Landing Force Company concluded training with Indonesian

Marines at the Antra Lina training area, Indonesia, June 1, as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2011.

CARAT is an ongoing, annual series of bilateral exercises held among the U.S. and Southeast Asian nations with the goals of enhancing regional coopera-tion, promoting mutual trust and un-derstanding and increasing operational readiness.

The Indonesian Marine participants involved in this phase of CARAT were from 6th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, Korps Marinir. The U.S. service members from Landing Force Company are comprised primarily of Marines from 2nd Bat-talion, 23rd Marine Regiment, and 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, both from 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve.

Augmented with staff from III Marine Expeditionary Force, these Marines are training with partner nations through-out the region in the core military skills required for combat marksmanship, military operations in urban terrain, martial arts, jungle warfare and combat lifesaving.

The training in Indonesia benefitted both nations.

“I enjoyed the sniper training,” said Indonesian Marine Maj. Mannir Danuri, the training leader for the exercise. “Sniper training is very important, and we learned not only shooting, but also tactics.”

Both nations brought expertise to the training from which each other could benefit. U.S. Marines shared knowledge of recent operations in urban terrain and Indonesian Marines shared their exper-tise in jungle warfare.

“One thing we brought to the table was our combat-marksmanship pro-gram,” said U.S. Marine Sgt. Kairo A. Ortez, platoon sergeant for 2nd Platoon,

Landing Force Company. “We showed them how to shoot and move and change magazines on the move.”

Ortez added that the Marines enjoyed demonstrating these skill sets for the Indonesian Marines.

One thing the Indonesians found particularly interesting was the combat glide and speed reloads.

“I was very interested in how the Marines are able to shoot while they move,” said Indonesian Marine Capt. Rian Malfi, company commander with Jaguar Company, 6th Infantry Bn. “That is something I really enjoyed seeing.”

While many U.S. Marines have experienced some form of jungle war-fare training, the Indonesians brought something new for the Landing Force Marines to learn.

“I really enjoyed the jungle-survival training,” Ortez said. “They taught us which plants to eat for nutrition, as well as to cure some illnesses. One thing I thought was interesting was how they taught us to cook rice in three different ways: cooking it in bamboo, a coconut and even burying it in a sock and start-ing a fire over it. All the things they taught us made me feel like I could be in a jungle environment and survive.”

After the training was complete, both nations walked away knowing they had learned something from their counterparts.

“I believe that exchanging these tactics between us and the U.S. Marine Corps has made us both better,” said Malfi. “I only wish we had more time to train with the U.S.”

While both countries gained tactical experience from the exercise, they also developed relationships with each other founded on a common bond of service.

“The U.S. Marines and the Indone-sians have a very good relationship,” said Malfi. “We are both training hard to serve our countries.”

CARAT’s involvement in Indonesia has come to an end, but the exercise con-tinues, as Marines share knowledge and expertise with other partner nations.

Marines, sailors finish training with Indonesian Korps Marinir

Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choateokinawa marine staff

Okinawa’s subtropical sun can turn parked vehicles into ovens,

especially during the sum-mer months. With that in mind, it is imperative that one never leave a child or pet in a parked vehicle, even for a moment, according to Joe Botulinski, an occupational safety and health specialist for Marine Corps Bases Japan.

During the summer months, average temperatures on Okinawa range between 86 and 98 degrees Fahrenheit with a relative humidity of 70 to 100 percent.

Once the air condition-ing is turned off, the interior temperature of a vehicle can rise almost 20 F within the first 10 minutes, which can be hazardous to children and pets, said Botulinski.

“Temperatures can reach 100 degrees and up in a car depending on the condition of the weather outside, even with the windows cracked open,” he said.

Contrary to common belief, leaving windows partially open does not justify or ad-equately protect children or pets left alone in a vehicle.

“The radiant energy from the sun warms the car,” said Gunnery Sgt. Michael E. Moore, ground safety man-ager with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expedition-ary Force. “If there is no air flow through the windows, that radiant energy will warm the car faster than the car can lose energy. Basically, the car acts as a greenhouse, trapping the sun’s heat.”

Children’s thermoregulato-ry systems are not as efficient as adults’, causing their body temperature to increase three to five times faster, he said. The danger of sustaining a heat injury is much higher

among pets and children.Leaving children or pets

in an unattended vehicle can cause serious health risks and may become fatal.

“Children will experience heavy sweating, feel weak or confused, dizzy, nause-ated and have headaches and an increased heart rate,” explained Moore. “Dogs and cats will get lethargic or vom-it. An internal temperature of 106 degrees Fahrenheit is fatal for children and pets.”

Aside from health risks, children or pets may dislodge the parking brake or take a car out of gear, causing the car to roll away.

Although these incidents do occur, there are ways to prevent them.

“To remind yourself that a child is in the car, keep a stuffed animal in the car seat,” said Botulinski. “When the child is buckled in, place the stuffed animal in the front with the driver. When leaving your car, check to be sure everyone is out of the car. Do not overlook any chil-dren who have fallen asleep in the car.”

Another tip is to keep your purse or wallet in the back seat with your child or pet, said Moore.

In the U.S., 49 children died from hyperthermia, or heat stroke, from being trapped inside hot vehicles in 2010, he added.

“To ensure the well-being of your children and pets, never leave them in a vehicle alone,” stressed Moore. “Ma-rine Corps Bases Japan Order 5800.1C provides guidance and the responsibilities of child supervision. Violation of this order is chargeable under the (Uniform Code of Military Justice).”

If children or pets are left alone in a vehicle, contact your local Provost Marshal’s Office.

Child, pet car safety vital during summer

U.S. Marines and sailors with Landing Force Company conduct stretching exercises with Indonesian counterparts during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2011 in Antra Lina training area, Indonesia, May 27. Indonesian service members from 6th Battalion, 2nd Brigade, Korps Marinir, and U.S. service members from Landing Force Company, comprised primarily of Marines from 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, and 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion both from 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, shared expertise and experience during the event. Photo by Cpl. Aaron Hostutler

okinawa marine | FEATURE | June 17, 2011 9

Sgt. Rebekka S. Heiteokinawa marine staff

Bonnie Amos, the wife of Gen. James Amos, 35th commandant of the Marine Corps, discussed ways to optimize the

Unit, Personal and Family Readiness Pro-gram with III Marine Expeditionary Force spouses and the family readiness officers from units on Okinawa at the Butler Officers’ Club on Camp Foster June 13.

“My goal today is to listen,” said Amos in her opening speech. “I want to hear what keeps you coming to work and what keeps you up at night, what gives you heartburn. I want to find a way ahead.”

The first topic discussed was the family care plan required of single Marines with children and dual military couples with children as directed by Department of De-fense Instruction 1342.19.

The biggest issue with the family care plan is getting Marines to fill it out, said Denise Loftesnes, III MEF FRO.

“This should fall more on the greenside and not the FRO,” she added, indicating that it is the Marines’ responsibility to develop their family care plans.

The family care plan is especially im-portant here since military families have to consider that a temporary family member caregiver may not be immediately available, Amos said.

“Families within the unit have to help,” she said.

Another topic discussed was the concern that Marine Corps Administrative Messages and Marine Corps Orders do not properly ad-dress those overseas with family.

Amos herself pointed out that the fami-lies and the Marines here have a unique situation.

The attendees also discussed Marines oc-casionally coming to the island then leaving the island shortly thereafter on an exercise, leaving the spouse to get the family settled.

The new website EMarine could be used to help with these issues, said Amos.

Marines and their families can use the new site to learn more about housing re-quirements and other permanent change of station challenges. EMarine is scheduled to

be up and running for III MEF Aug. 1.“(Moving) is difficult at all ages (and

ranks),” said Amos. “When we moved to Naples, we arrived on Sunday, received our household goods on Monday, and he left on Friday.”

Her sponsor was a critical part of her tran-sition, she said.

As the 90-minute long breakfast wrapped up, Amos shared a piece of advice: “People will forget what you said, they’ll even forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

Bonnie Amos, the wife of 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos, speaks with family readiness officers from units on Okinawa during a breakfast at the Butler Officers’ Club on Camp Foster June 13. The commandant and his wife visited Okinawa for a multi-day tour of Marine Corps bases in the Pacific Region. Photo by Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite

Bonnie Amos, wife of Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps, speaks to Marines about family relationships at the Camp Foster theater June 14. Amos thanked the troops for their service in Okinawa, saying she understood the sacrifice of being stationed away from family and friends. Photo by Cpl. Justin R. Wheeler

My goal today is to listenCommandant’s wife visits with FRO’s, spouses

10 okinawa marine | FEATURE | June 17, 2011

Marines with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company completed the ANGLICO

Basic Course on Camp Hansen June 10.

5th ANGLICO from III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, held the month-long course to familiarize Marines new to the unit with the battalion’s standard operating procedures.

ANGLICO is a liaison unit spe-cializing in coordinating artillery, naval gunfire and close air support.

“The course is to introduce Marines to the missions, roles and capabilities of 5th ANGLICO and what we expect them to do out in combat, and ensure they will be able to operate independently with for-eign units,” said Capt. Daniel Brown, 5th ANGLICO’s assistant operations officer.

“We operate in small teams; we have to make sure our Marines are as proficient as possible,” Brown said.

There are currently three active-duty ANGLICO units and two in the reserves. Each ANGLICO oper-ates differently due to variances in climate, geography and required tasks, so each unit’s ANGLICO Basic Course varies to fit these needs.

The Marines at 5th ANGLICO’s course received refresher training in subjects ranging from land naviga-tion in urban and jungle terrain to weapons assembly and disassembly.

Cpl. Samuel J. Stark, a radio operator with 5th ANGLICO, said it is important to know both basic forward-observing skills and basic radio procedures.

“Being an experienced radio op-erator within the unit, this is a great refresher and a great way to look into the other half of our unit, the forward-observing side,” said Stark.

“It’s very physically (demanding), and it’s designed to make people think when they’re tired,” said Brown about the course. “They show up here; it’s early in the morning, and we are already running them all over the base with flak, Kevlar and a rifle.”

The course is part of the unit’s training building up for a scheduled deployment to Afghanistan later this year.

“It’s a great course for cross train-ing within the unit,” added Stark who deployed with the unit to Af-ghanistan last year as a radio opera-tor. “If they are a radio operator, they learn about the forward observer’s job. If they are forward observer, they learn about the radio operator’s job.”

The course concluded with the Marines putting their newly-honed skills to the test.

After going through this course, the Marines came out tired, but with a new understanding of the unit and a vast amount of knowledge, said Brown.

5th ANGLICO hones skills, procedures

Story and photos by Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr.okinawa marine staff

Marines plot locations on maps before conducting the land navigation portion of the ANGLICO Basic Course on Camp Hansen June 10.

5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, Marines travel to their next objective during the ANGLICO Basic Course on Camp Hansen June 10. The four-week long course tested the Marines’ ability to accomplish ANGLICO’s mission.

Developingproficiency

Mention of any company in this notice does not constitute endorsement by the Marine Corps.

Rifle RangeSgt. Justin Johnson, 3rd Marine Division, 237

Pistol Range1st Lt. Andrez Posada, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 371

June 6 - June 10

In Theaters Now juNe 17 - juNe 23

FosterTODAY X-Men: First Class (PG13), 6 and 9:30 p.m.SATURDAY Hop (PG), noon and 3 p.m., Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (PG13), 6 and 9:30 p.m. SUNDAY Hop (PG), 1 p.m.; Super 8 (PG13), 4 and 7:30 p.m.MONDAY Hop (PG), 3 p.m.; Pirates of the Carib-bean: On Stranger Tides (PG13), 7 p.m.TUESDAY Your Highness (R), 7 p.m.WEDNESDAY Source Code (PG13), 7 p.m.THURSDAY Hop (PG), 3 p.m.; Super 8 (PG13), 7 p.m.

FutenmaTODAY Scream 4 (R), 6:30 p.m.SATURDAY Super 8 (PG13), 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.SUNDAY Source Code (PG13), 4 p.m.; Scream 4 (R), 7 p.m.MONDAY The Hangover Part II (R), 6:30 p.m.TUESDAY ClosedWEDNESDAY ClosedTHURSDAY Closed

KadenaTODAY Hanna (PG13), 6 p.m.; Your Highness (R), 9 p.m. SATURDAY Hanna (PG13), noon; X-Men: First Class (PG13), 3 and 7 p.m.SUNDAY Hanna (PG13), 1 p.m.; X-Men: First Class (PG13), 4 and 8 p.m.MONDAY Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), 3 p.m.; X-Men: First Class (PG13), 7 p.m. TUESDAY Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), 7 p.m.WEDNESDAY Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), 3 p.m.; The Hangover Part II (R), 7 p.m.THURSDAY Your Highness (R), 7 p.m.

KinserTODAY Your Highness (R), 6:30 p.m.SATURDAY Hanna (PG13), 3 p.m.; Your Highness (R), 6:30 p.m.SUNDAY Hanna (PG13), 3 p.m.; Your Highness (R), 6:30 p.m.MONDAY ClosedTUESDAY ClosedWEDNESDAY Super 8 (PG13), 3 and 6:30 p.m.THURSDAY The Hangover Part II (R), 6:30 p.m.

courtneyTODAY Super 8 (PG13), 6 and 9 p.m.SATURDAY Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), 2 and 6 p.m.SUNDAY Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG), 2 p.m.; The Hangover Part II (R), 6 p.m.MONDAY Source Code (PG13), 7 p.m.TUESDAY ClosedWEDNESDAY X-Men: First Class (PG13), 7 p.m.THURSDAY Closed

Hansen TODAY Hanna (PG13), 6 p.m.; Your Highness (R), 9 p.m. SATURDAY The Hangover Part II (R), 6 and 9 p.m.SUNDAY Hanna (PG13), 2 p.m.; Your Highness (R), 5:30 p.m.MONDAY Super 8 (PG13), 7 p.m.TUESDAY Super 8 (PG13), 7 p.m.WEDNESDAY Your Highness (R), 7 p.m.THURSDAY X-Men: First Class (PG13), 7 p.m.

scHwabTODAY The Hangover Part II (R), 7 p.m.SATURDAY Scream 4 (R), 5 p.m.SUNDAY Source Code (PG13), 5 p.m.MONDAY-THURSDAY Closed

tHeater directoryCAMP FOSTER 645-3465

KADENA AIR BASE 634-1869(USO NIGHT) 632-8781

MCAS FUTENMA 636-3890(USO NIGHT) 636-2113

CAMP COURTNEY 622-9616

CAMP HANSEN 623-4564(USO NIGHT) 623-5011

CAMP KINSER 637-2177

CAMP SCHWAB 625-2333(USO NIGHT) 625-3834

Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a

complete listing, visit www.shopmyexchange.com.

11okinawa marine | COMMUNITY PLACE | June 17, 2011

visit: www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan/pages/aroundmcbj/chapel.aspx

cHapeL scHeduLeCamp Foster | 645-7486• Catholic: Mon-Fri, 11:45 a.m.; Sat, 5 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m.• Christian Science: Sun, 11 a.m., Building 442• Eastern Orthodox: Divine Liturgy, Sun, 9:30 a.m.; Vespers, Sat, 5 p.m.• Gospel: Sun, 11:30 a.m.; 2nd, 3rd Sun, Children’s Church, 11 a.m.• Jewish: (Informal) Fri, 6:30 p.m.• Latter Day Saints: Mon, 6:30 p.m.• Lutheran DVD Worship: Sun, 4 p.m.• Muslim: Prayer, Fri, 12:45 p.m.• Protestant: Sun, 8:30 a.m.• Seventh Day Adventist: Sat, 9:30 a.m., at Torii Station 644-5701/644-4281

Camp sChwab | 622-9350• Catholic: Thurs, 11:30 a.m.• Protestant: Sun, 4 p.m.

Camp Lester | 643-7248• Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m.• Non-Denominational: Sun, 9 a.m., Hospital Chapel; Sun, 10 a.m., Lester Chapel

Camp Courtney | 622-9350• Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m.• Protestant: Sun, 10:45 a.m.

Camp hansen | 622-9350• Catholic: Sun, 10 a.m., East Chapel • Latter Day Saints: Wed, 6:30 p.m., Library • Protestant: Sun, 11 a.m., West Chapel

Camp mctureous | 622-9350• Gospel: Sun, 12:30 p.m. Camp Kinser | 637-1148• Catholic: Sun, noon• Protestant: Sun, 9:30 a.m.

mCas Futenma | 636-3058• Catholic: Sun, noon• Contemporary: Fri, 7 p.m.; Sun, 9 a.m.

Kadena air base | 634-1288www.kadenachapel.org • Catholic: Sun, 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Sun, 11:45 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Sun, 4 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Daily Mass, Mon-Fri, 11:30 a.m., Chapel 1; Reconciliation, Sun, 3:15 p.m., Chapel 1• Contemporary: Sun, 10 a.m., Chapel 1• Gospel: Sun, 10:30 a.m., Chapel 3• Protestant Bible Institute: Tues, 6 p.m., Chapel 1• Traditional: Sun, 9:30 a.m., Chapel 2• Wiccan/Pagan: Sat, 2 p.m., Building 856

for upcoming special worship services and events for all marine corps base chapels

Japanese phrase of the week:

For more information, or to sign up, contact

the Single Marine Program at 645-3681.

singLe marine program events

FOREST ADVENTURE TRIP: JUNE 25• Single Marines from Camp Kinser and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma are invited to swing through the treetops on zip lines, swing across ravines on tarzan swings and test their courage on suspended bridges and rope ladders at Okinawa’s thrilling athletic park, Forest Adventure Park. Sign up deadline is June 22. Bus will leave the Semper Fit Gyms at Camp Kinser at 8:30 a.m. and at MCAS Futenma at 8:55 a.m. Contact the SMP office for more information or to sign up.

SMP DISCOVER GOLF• Free golf lessons for single Marines and sailors will be offered on the first and third Friday of every month from 9-11 a.m. at Taiyo Golf Course. Participants will meet at the SMP office on Camp Foster by 8 a.m. Lessons are provided on a space-available basis.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES• Tengan Castle Family Night: Volunteer to assist at family night every Thursday from 5-9 p.m. at the Camp Courtney Tengan Castle.

“Moichido onegyshimasu” (pronounced moy-chi-do own-ne-guy-shi-mas)

It means, “One more time, please.”

proficiency

Competitors in the women’s division race to do 100 pull-ups during a timed event at the CrossFit Asia Regional competition at Crossfit Asia gym in Okinawa City June 11.

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Matheus J. Hernandez

okinawa marine staff

As the crowd cheered on their friends and family members, the exhausted participants, soaked in sweat, breathed

heavily as they struggled to force out one last repetition.

This was the scene as service members and civilians from across the Asia-Pacific region participated in the CrossFit Asia Regional competition at the

CrossFit Asia gym in Okinawa City June 10-12.The three-day competition consisted of

six events requiring the athletes to compete in their respective division, twice daily. The events pitted participants’ physical and mental strength against each other to find the top man, woman and team in the region.

Thirteen regional divisions throughout North and South America and four regional divisions in Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia were set up to find the best athletes to compete

in the CrossFit Games later this year. Competitors from around the world

have participated in the annual CrossFit Games since 2007.

The majority of the athletes participating in

this competition were military members

from all services on Okinawa, said Darin Hardy, a participant in the competition.

Only a few par-ticipants had the strength to muscle their way through the competition,

claiming top places in regionals. Daniel Her-

shey won first place for the men’s division and Candice

Howe conquered the women’s division.

“There are so many incredible athletes com-ing from around the world, and the competi-tion is amazing,” said Adrian Chambers, a participant at the regional competition. “Being involved is fun and the physical competition is exhilarating.”

The CrossFit-style workout helps service members remain physically fit, a key part of being a Marine, said Chambers.

“CrossFit’s (workouts of the day) in general are always challenging. The Regional WOD in particular are intentionally designed to evaluate the most elite athletes within a given region based upon a broad spectrum of physi-cal tests,” said Josh Moore, a participant in the competition. “This year’s Regional WOD tested everything from speed and power to strength and stamina, and a host of other physical as-pects which defines a well-rounded athlete.”

CrossFit has a way of fostering a competitive environment that is simply addictive, accord-ing to Moore.

The event was exciting because of the fierce competition brought by the other military branches and other nations, said Chambers.

“The CrossFit Asia competitors spent the last ten months enduring some of the most dif-ficult workouts imaginable. During this short time we have individually witnessed incred-ible growth in overall work capacity,” said Moore. “I know that another year of training with the CrossFit Asia staff will only serve to further advance our goals as competitive CrossFit athletes.”

12 okinawa marine | SPORTS | June 17, 2011

Service members compete for Crossfit Games

Josh Moore, a participant at the competition, does an overhead squat while lifting 95 pounds during a timed event at the CrossFit Asia Regional competition June 11. Service members and civilians from across the Asia-Pacific region participated in the competition at the CrossFit Asia gym in Okinawa City June 10-12 to qualify tocompete in the CrossFit Games later this year.

A competitor at the CrossFit Asia Regional competition dead lifts 315 pounds during the timed event at the CrossFit Asia gym in Okinawa City June 11.