Marines Conclude Multinational Match Lance Cpl

iii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

may 27, 2011 www.okinawa.usmc.mil Marines conclude multinational match Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud okinawa marine staff

PUCKAPUNYAL, Australia—The Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting 2011 came to a close here May 19, end- ing a three-week long marksmanship competition among 13 nations. The annual meeting was designed to test the participants’ combat marksmanship, build rapport among nations and provide a forum for the discussion of training techniques relating to combat marksmanship. The competition included more than 100 events, allowing participants to test their skills with pistols, light machine guns and assault rifles on varied courses of fire, according to Staff Sgt. Benjamin Robinson, assistant staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, Marine Australian Army Maj. Gen. David Morrison, right, commanding general, Forces Command, orders a bayonet charge Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft in Puckapunyal, Australia, during the 2011 Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting. The charge was carried out by U.S. Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Marines with Marine Shooting Detachment Australia, New Zealand Army soldiers and Australian Army soldiers. The The Marines walked away with a three-week meeting, which ended May 19, pitted military representatives from partner nations in competition in a trophy for their performance during series of combat marksmanship events. Represented nations included Canada, France (French Forces New Caledonia), the matches. Indonesia, Timor Leste, Brunei, Netherlands, United States, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, see AASAM pg 5 Thailand as well as a contingent of Japanese observers. Photo by Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud Key leaders unite on Courtney Marine’s courage brings Spice smokers to justice

Staff Sgt. Michael Freeman okinawa marine staff

Editor’s note: The following story is true. Names have been changed or omitted to protect the anonymity of all parties involved.

“Keep your mouth shut! You didn’t see a thing!” These are the kind of thinly-veiled threats one Marine here endured, prayed about and eventually found the moral courage to act upon by turning in fellow Marines who were using a barracks bathroom as a hideaway to smoke the illicit drug known as Spice. John’s story began weeks ago when another Marine, freshly out of the Camp Hansen brig where he served time on Spice-related charges, moved in to the room next door. They would be sharing a bathroom. Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr., left, Okinawa Area Coordinator, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general and Marine Corps Bases Japan At first, all was quiet. After a few days though, John noticed his new commander, walks with Hirokazu Nakaima, governor of Okinawa, following neighbor seemed to be spending more and more time in the bathroom a social lunch at Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney May 20. The lunch was an with the shower running. “The water was just running, and there was occasion intended to strengthen the relationship between Marine Corps and no other movement or sound,” he said. “It started happening two or Okinawa leaders. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher three times a day for long periods.” see SPICE pg 5

BLACK KNIGHTS TYPHOON READINESS Squadron training on Okinawa Typhoon season begins June 1. Find TCCOR to advance its skill set levels, disaster kit recommendations, ways to within a different environment. prepare and emergency contact details inside. issue

in this Pg. 8 Pg. 10 okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | May 27, 2011

2 Around

Corpsthe Memorial Day holiday message

emorial Day, or Decoration Day, as it was first called, was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by Gen. John Logan, Commander of the Grand Army of Mthe Republic. He called upon his soldiers to memorialize the fallen in their hearts and in ceremony. While it began as a time of re-

membrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, Memorial Day Pfc. Tylynn J. Scoggins, left, an automatic rifleman, and has continued to serve as a way to remember those who made the Lance Cpl. Jason J. Mendez, a rifleman, both serving with Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. Regiment, the ground combat element for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and reflect upon Force, simulate a machine gun team during raid their sacrifices and remind ourselves of the selfless devotion dem- rehearsals at a mechanized raid course at Marine Corps Base Hawaii May 19. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Carpenter onstrated every day by American men and women in harm’s way. Since our Nation’s birth, America’s warriors have distinguished themselves with honor, courage and commitment on battlefields around the globe. This Memorial Day, take some time to reflect upon their sacrifice and resolve to live up to their proud tradition of service. Please keep safety in mind at all times over the holiday. Re- member, you are ambassadors for our country and our Corps.

Above all, take care of each other. Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos held an end-of-game team meeting with the All-Marine sitting volleyball team during the Warrior Games, an Semper Fidelis, Olympic-style competition for wounded, ill and injured Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr. military members, May 18, at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. The Marines beat the All-Air Force team in a best-of-three series in sitting volleyball. Amos told the Marines he’s really proud of them and their success. Photo by Sgt. Michael S. Cifuentes

Join Okinawa Marine online • www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan Lance Cpl. Romero Almanza from Battalion Landing • www.facebook.com/iiimef.mcbj • www.youtube.com/3mefcpao Team 3/1, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Camp Pendleton, • www.flickr.com/3mefpao • www.twitter.com/okinawamarines Calif., removes a roll cage from a light utility vehicle during an aerial transport exercise May 24. This is the first time that the Expeditionary Fire Support System has been loaded into an aircraft on the West Coast. Photo by Lance Cpl. Claudia M. Palacios

Commanding General Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri okinawa marine newspaper H&S Battalion MCB PAO public affairs Director Lt. Col. David M. Griesmer Unit 35002 Press OFFICER 2nd Lt. Evan A. Almaas FPO AP 96373-5002 The Okinawa Marine is published by Marine Corps Community Services Marine Corps, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler or Marine Corps Com- Press Chief Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. under exclusive written contract with Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, munity Services of the products and services advertised. Central Bureau Okinawa, Japan. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, DESIGN editor Audra A. Satterlee The editorial content of this newspaper is edited and approved by the Consoli- use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, Camp Foster dated Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler. marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of military services of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity DSN 645-9335 stationed overseas, at sea and their families. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine from that source until the violation is corrected. Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof. All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are “official U.S. Marine Corps photos.” northern Bureau The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supple- For more information, e-mail us at [email protected] or write to us Camp Hansen ments, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the U.S. at Public Affairs Office, H&S BN MCB PAO, Unit 35002, FPO AP 96373-5002. DSN 623-4224 okinawa marine | NEWS | May 27, 2011

Hydrate to beat summer heat3

Lance Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr. there are a few methods they can it is time slow down and drink okinawa marine staff use to test their hydration level. water, added Sjostrom. An easy way to test the body’s “Common sense and an un- CAMP HANSEN — Today be- hydration level is to check the derstanding of the basic con- gins the Critical Days of Sum- color of the urine, said Botulin- cepts of risk identification, FLAG CONDITIONS mer campaign that will last ski. Pale to light-yellow urine prevention, and treatment of through Labor Day weekend. indicates an adequate level of exertional heat injury are essen- As temperatures rapidly increase on The goal of the Marine Corps hydration. tial to effective unit readiness,” Okinawa, it is important for all personnel Bases Japan Safety Office’s cam- Another way to test the hy- Botulinski added. to pay close attention to the heat index and plan outdoor activities and paign is to reduce the number of dration level is to pinch the One way to easily ensure unit training accordingly. Monitor the heat mishaps that occur during the skin and pull it away from the effectiveness is to take proper stress condition displayed by colored summer months by focusing on body, said Petty Officer 2nd precautions when conducting flags on each camp. The heat stress flag a topic of safety each week. All Class Jennifer Sjostrom, a hos- physical training. indicates what type of outdoor activity Critical Days of Summer topics pital corpsman with the Camp “Before any type of unit PT is authorized. Current flag conditions are also posted online at www.med.navy. are important, however, hydra- Hansen Medical Clinic. The or training operations in a hot mil/sites/nhoki/pages/flagcondition.aspx. tion, this week’s subject, is key skin should retract rapidly. If it environment is conducted, when performing any activity. retracts slowly, then hydration the heat index should be an- Drinking adequate amounts is needed. nounced and appropriate coun- No flag | Less than 80 degrees of water will help prevent heat “Exertional heat injuries oc- termeasures implemented,” Normal training can be conducted injuries, according to Petty Offi- cur commonly with Marines said Botulinski. for all personnel. cer 3rd Class Thomas Wigmore, and sailors exerting themselves During the summer months, a hospital corpsman with the in hot and humid environ- heat stress flags are posted III Marine Expeditionary Force ments,” said Botulinski. “Hot throughout each camp. GREEN FLAG | 80-84.9 degrees Personnel not acclimatized to the Medical Simulation Center. and humid weather during There are four different heat weather should use caution and take There is not a set amount of anytime of the day can be a stress flags: green, yellow, red breaks as needed. water each person should drink; contributing factor for possible and black. Each flag indicates a it varies from person to person, heat-related injuries.” higher level of heat stress from said Wigmore. A good rule of Muscle cramps, heat ex- green flag which is 80-84.9 de- YELLOW FLAG | 85-87.9 degrees thumb is to consume at least haustion and heat stroke are grees, yellow which is 85-87.9 Personnel not acclimatized should not do strenuous activities. All personnel 64 ounces of water daily and all injuries that occur in a hot degrees, red which is 88-89.9 should be cautious and take breaks. maintain adequate nutrition, and humid climate like Japan, degrees and black flag which is he added. said Sjostrom. Muscle cramps 90 degrees and above. Accomplishing full hydra- are the least serious and occur The heat stress flags aid in RED FLAG | 88-89.9 degrees tion during the day and dur- frequently. recognizing the possibilities of Strenuous activities for all personnel are ing meals aids in preventing “Reoccurring injuries that sustaining heat-related injuries, limited to mission essential activities. dehydration during strenuous happen due to lack of hydration but the human body’s reaction activity, said Joe Botulinski, during the summer months are indicates when a heat-related in- occupational safety and health (caused by) Marines not being jury is occurring, said Sjostrom. BLACK FLAG | 90 degrees or more specialist with Marine Corps aware of signs and symptoms of For more information about Non-mission essential, outdoor activities Base Camp Butler. heat stress,” added Botulinski. hydration or the Critical Days must cease. No normal training. For those who are not sure Muscle cramps can be the of Summer campaign, call the if they are properly hydrated, body’s way of telling a person MCBJ Safety Office at 645-3806. New reenlistment procedures heighten competition Cpl. Justin R. Wheeler from Headquarters Marine Corps for qualified need assistance in dealing with extremely okinawa marine staff Marines after available spaces have been filled. difficult tasks or unusual assignments. They “The Marine Corps is responsible for ensur- demonstrate reliability, good influence, sobriety, CAMP FOSTER — Marines who want to reenlist ing that Marines are led by the best Marines our obedience and industry. will find they need to excel above their peers Corps can provide,” stated the MARADMIN, Tier three Marines are competitive. They can more than ever after a Marine administrative which was approved by the Commandant of be depended upon to complete regular duties message regarding new reenlistment procedures the Marine Corps. “To that end, the reenlist- but usually needs assistance in dealing with was released May 11. ment process is amended to assist leaders in problems that aren’t routine. MARADMIN 273/11 specifies that the Ma- identifying those Marines who have excelled Finally, Tier four Marines are below average rines who retain Marine Occupational Specialty in relation to their peers and provide for higher and may not meet the minimum standards. “boat spaces” should be the most qualified competition in reenlisting.” Highly-qualified Marines are offered a instead of “first to volunteer.” Marines are now given 90 days to apply for greater opportunity to execute a lateral move “Due to the Marine Corps’ high tempo, we reenlistment, from July 1-Sept. 30. Afterward, into high-demand/low-density jobs. want to keep the most qualified top notch Headquarters Marine Corps will commence “HQMC has always offered lateral moves to Marines,” said Master Sgt. Stuart Morvant, boards to determine the most qualified for fast- highly-qualified Marines,” said Sgt. Thomas Re- career retention specialist for 3rd Marine Di- filling MOSs. gan, career retention specialist for Headquarters vision, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “The The new system breaks Marines into four tiers and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Marine Corps is losing quality Marines with to determine the most qualified for retention. Butler. “Traditionally, there are a few (Military the first-come, first-serve submissions due to Tier one Marines are eminently qualified. Occupational Specialties) that are identified as deployments.” They do superior work in all duties; even high demand, low density MOSs, meaning that New considerations for potential reenlist- extremely difficult and unusual tasks are there are not enough people to meet the demand. ments have been made which include expand- assigned with confidence that they will be This year, Marines qualifying for these MOSs ing the reenlistment submission timeframe, completed competently. These Marines also will be identified in advance to help the Marine more thorough evaluations by commanders and demonstrate positive effects on others by ex- Corps better staff those crucial billets.” offering lateral moves to highly technical MOSs ample and persuasion. Morvant advises Marines wanting to reenlist to qualified candidates. In addition, command- Tier two Marines are highly competitive. for fiscal year 2012 to see their career planners ing generals can request reenlistment approval They do excellent work in regular duties but as soon as possible. okinawa marine | NEWS | May 27, 2011

briefs 4 FLEA MARKETS CanCelled Marines prepare for NOLES ‘11 The flea market scheduled for Sgt. Heather Brewer this weekend on Camp Courtney are okinawa marine staff cancelled due to the predicted arrival of Typhoon Songda. The next MCCS CAMP HANSEN — Marines and flea market is scheduled for June 4-5 on sailors with Special Operations Camp Foster from noon-3 p.m. Training Group and Military Po- Schwabfest Cancelled lice Support Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Schwabfest, originally scheduled for Group, III MEF, participated in May 28 on Camp Schwab is cancelled sustainment training here in due to the predicted arrival of Typhoon preparation for the Non-Lethal Songda. Weapons Executive Seminar 2011 The next MCCS festival is scheduled May 23–26. for June 18 from 3-10 p.m. and June 19 NOLES ‘11, which is scheduled from 1-10 p.m. at Marine Corps Air to take place May 30 – June 10 Station Futenma. in Chonburi, Thailand, is U.S. Marines and sailors with Special Operations Training Group and Military Police Support Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Marine Corps Forces Pacific’s June Parents’ day/Night out Group, III MEF, demonstrate how to operate an X-26 Taser during sustainment premiere multilateral theater se- Due to the Memorial Day holiday, training on Camp Hansen May 23. Photo by Sgt. Heather Brewer curity cooperation event for non- next month’s Parents’ Day/Night Out is lethal weapons and is designed to Company. “It refreshes the in- nerve-wracking. postponed until the second Saturday promote awareness of non-lethal structors on course criteria and “This was the first time I’ve of June. weapons used to maintain order allows them time to prepare ever been through anything like All Child Development Centers and in low-intensity scenarios. Due to course materials like handouts, that,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class School Age Centers will provide this the significant variance of non- waivers and equipment.” Byron Fjeld, a corpsman with service June 11, except Courtney CDC lethal weapons capabilities from The four-day event included SOTG here. “It was a pretty in- and McTureous SAC which will host country to country, the seminar classes and practical application tense pain, but it was worth it. theirs June 18. For more information, seeks to improve interoperability sessions given by current SOTG Now, if I have to treat people who call 645-4505. between partner nations. instructors on the human electro- have been tased or sprayed with Futenma USO Non-lethal weapons are ex- muscular incapacitation device, OC, I will know what they are go- plicitly designed to incapacitate also known as an X-26 Taser, and ing through. I wouldn’t do it again The USO on Marine Corps Air equipment and personnel while oleoresin capsicum spray, more unless I had to though.” Station Futenma has moved to a minimizing fatalities and perma- commonly called OC spray. While participating in NOLES temporary location at the chow hall in nent injuries. “The training we are doing ‘11, the Marines and the Thai Classroom 3. USO Futenma is undergoing “The capabilities of our non- keeps our instructors proficient Army will conduct training events construction to better accommodate the lethal weapons in general are pre- in their areas of expertise,” said using tasers and OC spray, along diverse audience that frequents the social ferred during rescue missions, or Sgt. Jason Davids, a squad leader with other military exercises. hall, movie room and canteen. for force protection in civil distur- with MP Support Company. “It “We’ll be doing defensive tac- Inside the updated center will be Nobu bances,” said Capt. Jesse A. Atay, also gives them a chance to impart tics, military operations on urban Curry, high-speed fiber internet, gaming the assistant branch head of the their knowledge on these subjects terrain exercises, mechanical ad- consoles, a theater room and a stage for Expeditionary Warfare Branch to our assistant instructors who vantage control hold classes and in-house music performances. and the NOLES ‘11 detachment aren’t yet certified.” courses on non-lethal munitions Although operations are now officer-in-charge. “They can also Instructor sustainment and like crowd-dispersing rounds conducted out of the chow hall on be used to control rioting prison- education was not the only goal, and 12-gauge bean-bag shotgun Futenma, the center still provides the ers of war or in situations during however. rounds alongside the Thai Army,” same services to the troops such as which civilians are used to mask “Having first-hand experiences said Gladle. free food nights, internet, movies and a military attack.” with these weapons stops the NOLES is an opportunity for all phone calls. The training was held to expose fear of the unknown and lets the participating nations to strengthen For more details, contact 645-2957. new personnel to non-lethal weap- trainees know they will be able military-to-military partnerships. REMINDER: 2011 ROAD TAX DUE ons and to reacquaint instructors to get up afterward,” said Gladle. “These exercises strengthen with the courses before deploying “It gives them confidence that the our relationships with our part- Japan 2011 Road Tax payment is due in support of the exercise. weapon works while tempering ner nations,” said Atay. “Shared and new decals should be placed on “We are conducting instruc- that confidence with the knowl- training fosters camaraderie -- we windows by July 31 due to an extension. tor sustainment training for all edge of what their opponent feels will get to see how they do things, For more information on how to the courses we will be teaching when they use the weapon on and they will get see how we do make payments and obtain decals, while we are in Thailand,” said someone.” things. We are really looking for- contact 645-7481 or 645-3963. Staff Sergeant Frederick Gladle, For those who had never been ward to the exchange of ideas in POST office holiday hours training chief for MP Support tased, the experience was a bit regards to non-lethal capabilities.” In observance of Memorial Day, the following are the hours of operation for base post offices: May 28: Parcel pick up will be open MAG-36 receives new commander from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and retail services Col. Jeff K. Arruda assumed command of Marine will be available from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine May 29-30: Closed Expeditionary Force, from Col. Robert M. Brassaw May 31: Parcel pick up will be open during a ceremony at the MAG-36 hangar at Marine from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and retail services Corps Air Station Futenma May 26. Brassaw has been will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the commanding officer of MAG-36 since 2009, and will be assuming duties at U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Normal business hours resume June 1. Command. Arruda’s previous assignment was 3rd For more information, call 637-0124. Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to where he served as the Inspector General since 2010. [email protected], 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 Arruda Brassaw material. okinawa marine | NEWS | May 27, 2011

SPICE from pg 1 his CO walked past John’s duty post on Sometimes, he said, he could hear his way home for the evening. his neighbor leave the bathroom, but the “Excuse me, sir. I have a problem I 5 sound of the shower continued to drone need to talk about.” on. Eventually, someone would come One week later, John had gone to back in, turn off the shower and retreat sleep after standing duty. When he back to the connecting room. woke up, he could hear the voices in the It wasn’t long before the mysterious bathroom again. activity increased. “I started hearing John picked up the phone and called other voices in the bathroom,” said John. the sergeant major. The sergeant major “I started asking myself, ‘Why is there a arrived a short time later, accompanied group of guys in the bathroom with the by a duty NCO and a Criminal Investi- water running?’” gation Division agent. The Spice users With each new incident, John be- were busted. came more suspicious and more pieces John said he acted out of a sense of Australian Army soldiers launch a javelin missile here May 12 as part of of the puzzle came to light. “I could duty, not only to his command, but to the Chongju firepower demonstration. The demonstration displayed hear lighters and smell smoke, but not his fellow Marines as well. The Marine Australia’s combined arms arsenal and was viewed by military experts cigarette smoke,” said John. “It was dif- next door who had already served from around the world. Photos by Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud ferent.” in the brig for getting mixed up with When John entered the bathroom Spice was not the only one living in AASAM from pg 1 after these incidents, he sometimes that room. He shared it with another The Marines of Marine Shoot- noticed ashes in the toilet or on the young Marine, fresh from his military ing Detachment Australia adapt- floor. He stopped hanging his towels occupational specialty school, whom ed their styles of shooting to fit in the bathroom because he could not John had befriended. John said he wor- the unique courses of fire here stand the way they smelled anymore. ried about him often – about whether and engaged in an exchange of Eventually, the bathroom crew grew he would fall prey to peer pressure and information with participating either more confident or more careless the effects of the drug. Unfortunately, nations that was mutually ben- and stopped trying to clean up after his concerns were valid. “That was one eficial, according to Robinson. themselves altogether. Bath mats or Marine I couldn’t save in this whole The detachment was comprised towels were left pushed up against the ordeal,” he said. of Marines from Marine Corps base of the door to his room – to keep John felt that his own roommate’s Base Quantico, Va., Marine the smell of smoke from entering his interests might be on the line if someone Corps Bases Japan as well as III room, he assumed. did not take action as well. “My room- MEF units based in Okinawa, When he alluded to the fact that mate is a great guy,” said John. “He just and 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine he knew what they were doing, they got his scuba certification; how would Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, threatened him – demanding he remain he be able to enjoy scuba diving if he III MEF, based in Hawaii. quiet about his suspicions or face conse- was in the brig or on restriction?” The events incorporated chal- quences. John said, by that time, he was He also notes that the command lenges that pushed shooters out- pretty sure he knew what was going on climate had much to do with him be- side their comfort zones. Competitors walk through and said plenty of other Marines had ing able to muster the courage to come “One of the pistol events was the morning frost onto the their suspicions too. One even advised forward. His sergeant major had passed a night shoot where there was classification range here May 18 him to heed the perpetrators’ warnings word in formations many times that the almost no light at all. A lot of at the 2011 Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting. The meeting is not to report his suspicions. “He told utmost confidentiality would be upheld the Marines found that quite an annual, international combat- challenging,” said Robinson. me I should just talk to the Marines and for anyone who came forward with in- marksmanship competition hosted tell them to stop,” said John. “He was formation that could help identify Spice “We actually had our greatest by the Australian Army and ran afraid the ‘higher-ups’ would secure our users within the unit. “I heard about a success at that match thanks to May 9-19. liberty if we reported it.” couple of other guys who came forward (Sgt. Jonathan Shue, noncom- John did not heed the threats though, and were taken care of by the sergeant missioned officer-in-charge, to operate,” said Robinson. “It or that Marine’s advice. Instead, he major and the CO,” said John. “I feel Machine Shop, MALS-36).” will greatly assist our ability to decided to write an anonymous letter like their support took some weight off The events challenged the work together in the future on and submit it to his sergeant major and my shoulders. It made me feel like they shooters to incorporate new ele- anything from humanitarian commanding officer through a trusted really wanted to help me.” ments while maintaining their assistance (missions) to combat noncommissioned officer. “I knew if Since the incident, John’s work envi- fundamental skill set, according operations.” these guys got caught, and I didn’t say ronment has stabilized somewhat, but to Lt. Col. Mark D. Mackey, offi- The interpersonal relation- anything, I would have been swept up in he said his unit still feels the impact of cer-in-charge, Marine Shooting ships that allowed this type it and under suspicion as well,” he said. the poor decisions of a few of its mem- Detachment Australia. Mackey of teamwork between nations John waited and watched for a time, bers. “It affects our readiness,” he said. is also the officer-in-charge of III were also built upon during the but the activity in his bathroom contin- “These Marines had important jobs to MEF Civil Affairs. competition, he said. ued unchecked until the day came when do. Now we have to pick up the slack.” “(Fundamental and combat “You could see it from day marksmanship) complement one when everyone stuck to each other, and in my humble their own countrymen and by opinion, you have to have that the end, everyone was friends,” foundation of fundamental said Robinson. “Just by forging marksmanship to build upon relationships now, it should as- to be successful,” said Mackey. sist everyone’s ability to work “If you don’t have that sight- together in the future.” alignment, sight-picture, slow, The knowledge and experi- steady trigger-squeeze training, ence the teams gained over then you are not going to be an the course of the match is only effective combat shooter.” useful to parent nations if the With unique challenges, the shooters return to their countries event promoted interoperability and share their experience – and the exchange of knowledge something the Marine shooting between nations, said Robinson. detachment plans to do, according to Robinson. Marines who notice suspicious activity have many options to choose from when seeking “The key word is interoper- direction or advice about reporting their suspicions. One III MEF Marine recently ability which was demonstrated “We need to take this experi- displayed the mental and moral courage to say, “Not in my Corps,” by turning in fellow by the last match where they put ence back and build upon the Marines who were using a barracks bathroom as a hideaway to smoke the illicit drug competitors from every country Marine Corps’ combat marks- known as Spice. Photo illustration by Sgt. Heather Brewer on a team, and they were able manship,” said Mackey. 6 okinawa marine | FEATURE | May 27, 2011 Marines, sailors conduct machine gun drills aboard USS Tortuga Story and photos by Cpl. Aaron Hostutler Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve. okinawa marine staff CARAT is an annual series of bilateral exercises held among the U.S. and Southeast Asian arines with Landing Force Company nations with the goals of enhancing regional conducted a machine gun firing exer- cooperation, promoting mutual trust and under- Mcise May 23 aboard the USS Tortuga in standing, and increasing operational readiness. the South China Sea. Augmented with staff from III Marine Expe- Refreshing skills for Marines and introducing ditionary Force, these Marines are training with the weapon to sailors, shipboard training provides partner nations throughout the region in core a productive means to utilize time while in transit. military skills like combat marksmanship, mili- Landing Force Company is the ground exer- tary operations on urban terrain, martial arts, cise force for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and jungle warfare and first-aid. Training 2011 and is comprised primarily of “It’s a requirement for all of these Marines to Marines from 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regi- fire their weapon at least once a month,” said ment and 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Capt. Rudy Cazares, the Landing Force Company

Lance Cpl. Antonio Landaverde, automatic rifleman, Weapons Platoon, Landing Force Company, fires the M240B machine gun during a live-fire drill May 23 aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Tortuga.

Sailors aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Tortuga don protective equipment prior to conducting a machine gun live-fire drill May 23. Marines with Weapons Platoon, Landing Force Company, familiarized a group of sailors with the M240B machine gun. okinawa marine | FEATURE | May 27, 2011 7 Marines, sailors conduct machine gun drills aboard USS Tortuga commander. “Doing these ranges also helps pre- tuga. “The fact that we got to step into the shoes taught the sailors about the weapons system pare the Marines for the bilateral training.” of infantry Marines was really cool, and it was before they shot. “Teaching a group of people Cazares, former company commander for great that they showed us how to use the guns I have never met and who have never used the Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Regiment, before we shot. I was so excited when I started machine gun helped build my confidence so that 3rd Marine Division, III MEF, is one of the few shooting and I was hitting the target right where when we train with the next nation I’m even active duty Marines in Landing Force Company. I was supposed to.” more prepared.” “I’m very happy I volunteered for this oppor- Familiarizing the sailors with the weapon Marines and sailors participating in CARAT tunity,” Cazares said. was not solely to win the graces of Navy breth- are proceeding to train with Indonesian defense In addition to the Marines’ training, 12 sailors ren; it also allowed Marines to rehearse in- forces next, continuing the tour within their area from the USS Tortuga were familiarized with the struction of this weapon before doing so with of operations. M240B machine gun and given an opportunity partner militaries. “Learning how foreign nations operate is a to fire it. “Most of the sailors we trained had never cool experience,” Castellanos said. “It’s also cool “It was like an adrenaline rush. That’s what shot a machine gun before so it was brand new knowing that I’m leaving a small part of me be- I really liked about it,” said Seaman Destinee to them,” said Cpl. Armando Castellanos, a hind with the other militaries by teaching them Ramirez, operation specialist on the USS Tor- automatic rifleman with Weapons Platoon who how we operate.”

Petty Officer 3rd Class Charles Turner, left, hospital corpsman, landing force command element, checks a simulated victim for back injuries while Petty Officer 3rd Class Alexander Hernandez, hospital corpsman, landing force command element, rotates and immobilizes him. The corpsmen were conducting a casualty evacuation drill prior to a machine gun live-fire drill May 23 aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Tortuga.

Marines with Landing Force Company fire the M240B machine gun during a live-fire drill May 23 aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Tortuga. The Marines are participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2011. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held among U.S. and Southeast Asian defense forces with the goals of enhancing regional cooperation, promoting mutual trust and understanding, and increasing operational readiness. Augmented with staff from III Marine Expeditionary Force, the Marines comprising the landing force are volunteers from 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division and 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division. okinawa marine | FEATURE | May 27, 2011

Black8 Knights bring unique capabilities, history Lance Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr. experienced before. okinawa marine staff This unit has a lot of history dating back to World arine Fighter War II and the Battle of Attack Squadron Okinawa, said Staff Sgt. M314, which arrived Phillip Tomaszweski, a here April 1, has brought maintenance controller with it many capabilities with VMFA-314. and a forward presence of Tomaszweski has been a a combat-capable squadron Black Knight for a collec- to III Marine Expeditionary tive time of more than 10 Force’s area of operation. years, first attaching to Currently attached to the unit in 1997 to 2005, Marine Aircraft Group 12, leaving the unit from 2006- 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, 2008 and returning from III Marine Expeditionary 2008 until now. Force, as part of the Marine Tomaszweski has seen Corps’ Unit Deployment the capabilities of the A Marine from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Program, the Black Knights squadron firsthand. Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, stands by to direct the pilot to the Kadena Air of VMFA-314 are deployed Base runway May 24. The Black Knights of VMFA-314 are currently assigned to MAG-12 as part He was with the squad- to Japan. of the Marine Corps’ Unit Deployment Program. Photo by Lance Cpl. Gregory Moore ron during Operation The UDP focuses on ro- Southern Watch where tating combat-capable units aircraft and missiles. the enemy’s ability to fight. their position, he added. the squadron patrolled the to bases throughout Japan Of the six functions of This includes close air sup- As a pilot, Rothman southern half of Iraq fol- to bring a forward presence Marine aviation, VMFA-314 port, which is the employ- is trained to use these lowing the Gulf War. to the Pacific theater of op- provides the Marine Corps ment of ordnance in close techniques. VMFA-314 has a tradi- erations, said Capt. Bradley with anti-air warfare, proximity of ground forces During his time with tion of high standards and Rothman, a F/A-18 Hornet offensive air support and with detailed integration. the squadron, he trained excellent performance, said pilot with the squadron. aerial reconnaissance. “In combat, we are able in Tampa Bay, Fla., and Rothman adding the unit “We are both a fighter Anti-air warfare de- to fight the enemy within deployed in support of takes its work seriously. and attack squadron,” said stroys or reduces enemy air visual range and beyond vi- Operation Atlantic Strike VMFA-314 is an inte- Rothman. “We conduct and missile threats, while sual range,” Rothman said. and Operation Mountain gral part of the Marine Air three of the six functions of aerial reconnaissance is VMFA-314 also conducts Round Up. Ground Task Force concept, Marine aviation.” used to gather tactical escort flights in and out of Rothman said Japan of- coordinating and integrat- The six functions of information on terrain, target areas, added Roth- fers the squadron another ing with the ground com- Marine aviation are anti-air weather and the enemy man. The squadron has the opportunity to advance bat element, said Rothman. warfare, offensive air sup- situation. capability to provide air its skill set and work in The Black Knights will port, aerial reconnaissance, Rothman defines of- support to ground forces a different environment aid in the mission readi- assault support, electronic fensive air support as by dropping ordnance in a -- an environment many ness in this region, Roth- warfare and control of anything done to destroy close but safe distance to in the unit have never man added. Advanced course students beautify Okinawa by cleaning Araha Beach

Sgt. Brandon L. Saunders ary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. okinawa marine staff Due to the tide being low, the Marines were able to extend their clean up efforts at distanc- ore than 30 Marines from the Oki- es reaching 200 meters beyond the shore line. nawa Staff Noncommissioned Officer After collecting as much trash as they could, MAcademy’s Advanced Course, class the Marines also sorted combustible products 4-11, volunteered to clean up trash and debris from recyclable plastics and glass. on Araha Beach, Okinawa, May 20. “It is crucial that we give back to the island The clean up is one of many community of Okinawa so we show the people here that relations projects designed to involve Depart- we’re appreciative of our Corps being able to ment of Defense personnel and their families operate here,” said Gunnery Sgt. Ronald E. in the local community and help keep the Current Jr., a student in the class and the staff island clean. noncommissioned officer-in-charge of terres- Spearheaded by Ms. Hiroko Tomimura, the trial platoon, 7th Communication Battalion, III Camp Foster Community Relations representa- MHG. tive, students from the course collected more The gunnery sergeants displayed their than 100 bags of trash and miscellaneous enthusiasm for the project by dividing up into debris from the shores of the beach. teams, and even competing with one another Cleanups are important. We need to pro- to see who could collect the most trash. tect the important resources in Okinawa, said “Over the past few years in Okinawa, I Tomimura. haven’t been able to really give back to the Gunnery Sgts. Djon T. Johnson, right, operations chief of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, Students from the SNCOA have been community,” said Gunnery Sgt. Djon T. John- III Marine Expeditionary Force and Ronald E. Current Jr., known for displays of selflessness such as son, a student in the course and the operations staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge of terrestrial these clean ups at least once each quarter, chief of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Ma- platoon, 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine said Gunnery Sgt. David A. Luna, class first rine Logistics Group, III MEF. “Now that I do Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, help sergeant and assistant operations chief of 3rd have the opportunity, I feel it’s duly important clean up the coastal area during a community relations Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expedition- to set the example for junior Marines.” project at Araha Beach May 20. Photo by Sgt. Brandon L. Saunders okinawa marine | FEATURE | May 27, 2011

Blood donations vital to Pacific Region9

Cpl. Megan Angel blood into the component parts okinawa marine staff that may go to several different patients in need.” he U.S. Pacific Command Most healthy adults are eligible Armed Services Blood to give blood, however, there are TBank Center on Camp Les- several reasons a person may be ter is the headquarters of blood deferred from donating -- tem- operations and the main source porarily, indefinitely or per- of blood products for the entire manently. Deferral criteria was Pacific theater. As part of the established for the protection of Armed Services Blood Program, those donating and those receiv- the official U.S. military blood ing transfusions. program, blood donations serve A deferral should not discourage as a vital link to military ser- donors from coming back or think- vice members and their families ing they cannot help. Units and worldwide. Petty Officer 1st Class Jun Villanueva, a medical lab technician with the U.S. work sections can help by organiz- ASBBC provides blood prod- Pacific Command Armed Services Blood Bank Center, collects individual ing a blood drive, said Kennedy. ucts to U.S. Naval Hospital vials during a blood donation by Pfc. Dewayne Schinault’s at a blood drive ASBBC holds several blood at building 494 on Camp Foster May 17. Schinault, along with more than 60 Okinawa, USNH Guam, USNH drives every month at locations Marines and sailors belonging to the Joint Reception Center, donated blood Yokosuka, Misawa Air Base, to ASBBC. More information on donating blood and upcoming blood drives throughout the island. Walk-ins Yokota Air Base and several is also available at www.militaryblood.dod.mil/okinawa or on Facebook at and appointments to donate blood other medical treatment facilities www.facebook.com/okinawablood.com. Photo by Cpl. Megan Angel are also available at the center in the region. ASBBC Okinawa Monday through Friday from 9 also provides blood health care and (Department of Defense) members depend on blood donors a.m. to 2 p.m. in Building 6017 on service support to various Navy civilians in the region.” every day. Camp Lester. ships and military operations ASBBC needs to collect ap- Blood collected by ASBBC is “Lives are constantly saved such as Exercises Cobra Gold and proximately 300 blood units, per also used by separating donations throughout the Pacific because Balikatan. month, or 3,600 units per year, to into red blood cells, platelets and of the generous people here on “The blood that we collect support the need of blood prod- plasma, said Petty Officer 1st Okinawa who choose to donate,” for PACOM comes from blood ucts for PACOM’s entire area of Class Jun Villanueva, a medical said Kennedy. “We could never drives conducted on Okinawa,” operations, said Kennedy. A unit lab technician with U.S. Pacific have too many donations.” said Douglas Kennedy, a blood of blood is equal to about a pint. Command ASBBC. For more information on how donor recruiter with ASBBC. Blood and blood products are “The blood donated at our to donate or to organize a blood “The blood people decide to give used for patients of all ages for blood drives stays within the drive, contact Kennedy at the during our blood drives save many reasons. From cancer or military system,” said Kennedy. ASBBC at 643-7710 or 643-7737, lives and supports over 175,000 surgical patients to those with “One donation can save up to or by e-mail at douglas.kennedy@ service members, their families, battlefield injuries, military three lives because we split whole med.navy.mil. Families break bread with Marines during ‘Taste of Home’

Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe okinawa marine staff

he thick aroma of freshly home-cooked food, coupled with a sense of enjoyment, transformed a professional military class- Troom into a family gathering for single Marines and sailors during the Taste of Home hosted by the Unit and Family Readiness Office on Camp Kinser May 17. Every quarter, volunteers with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, prepare homemade dishes to remind Marines and sailors that while their families may be thousands of miles away, they have a family within the Marine Corps, said Salina P. McBride, a unit and family readiness officer with the regiment. The Unit and Family Readiness Program is designed to ensure Marines, sailors and family members are better equipped to deal with the stress of being forward-deployed to Okinawa and support activities which build camaraderie and unity among units stationed here. “Being so far away from home is a sensitive subject for us,” said Staff Sgt. Carla Arana, a food service specialist with Food Service Company, Lance Cpl. Katrina Dunivan, an assistant unit and family readiness Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Regiment, III Marine Expeditionary Force, serves a slice of pie to Sgt. Stephen Wallace, a radio officer with Headquarters Company, CLR-37. “But the volunteers or- technician with Communications Company, CLR-37, during the Taste of ganized by the (Unit and Family Readiness Office) cook to ease that Home hosted by the Unit and Family Readiness Office on Camp Kinser May pain, like they were part of the family.” 17. Photo by Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe The event is also designed to build interpersonal relationships between single service members in the barracks and senior-leadership. something that happens every day,” said Pfc. Samantha Evers, a food “The Taste of Home provides an excellent opportunity for senior- service specialist with Food Service Company, CLR-37. “We share a level leadership to bond with junior Marines and see how they are lot of laughs together and learn things about each other I wouldn’t doing personally,” said McBride. have learned in the workplace. During the event, service members played board games to create a “I am very glad for the amount of success we have had with this sense of camaraderie. event,” said McBride. “Last quarter volunteers brought homemade “Playing games that would normally be played by a family is not pizzas, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs.” okinawa marine | FEATURE | May 27, 2011

10 TYphoonreadiness Preparation crucial as typhoon season nears

Lance Cpl. Heather Choate recommends all personnel begin to conduct explained Andrews. “If necessary, contact okinawa marine staff typhoon preparations in and around their the appropriate organization that needs to quarters. During TCCOR 1 Caution, all person- know about any significant damage, be it your CAMP FOSTER — With typhoon season ap- nel are advised to remain indoors, however, housing agency, barracks manager or military proaching, residents on Okinawa should begin during TCCOR 1 Emergency, all personnel housing emergency maintenance.” to prepare for more than a little rain. are required to stay indoors until TCCOR 1 To receive updates and monitor storm prog- Typhoons, or cyclones, are violent tropical Recovery. ress on Okinawa, log onto http://weather.kade- storms and consist of heavy rain and strong “Everyone should remain calm (during a naforcesupport.com, www.usno.navy.mil/jtwc, winds with the potential to injure people or typhoon), review your disaster preparedness tune into American Forces Network television destroy property. They are especially common checklist and update your list with things you and radio programming or call 634-4081. in the China Sea and western regions of the feel are important to you and your family,” said For more information or to create an emer- Pacific Ocean, according to Glen U. Andrews, Andrews. gency plan, visit www.ready.gov, www.redcross. current operations and training officer with The Air Force 18th Wing commander is the org, www.fema.org or http://72hours.org. Marine Corps Bases Japan. TCCOR authority for all DOD facilities and “The typhoon season that the U.S. military personnel on Okinawa, per U.S. Forces Japan prepares for here lasts from June 1 through No- Instruction 15-4001. vember 30 every year,” said Andrews. “This is According to this instruction, only the EMERGENCY NUMBERS when most typhoons form in the northwestern commander can give the all clear following a MCB HQSVCBN Command Duty Officer 645-7315 regions of the Pacific Ocean. An average of 21 typhoon. Base Officer of the Day 645-7218 such storms of tropical origin occur yearly.” However, any camp commander can in- Camp Foster Base Access Operator 098-892-5111 Military Police (from on-base) 911 There are many ways to be prepared for any crease the TCCOR condition until they feel the Military Police (from off-base) 098-970-3423/3887 natural disaster, said Andrews. The first step is camp is in a safe condition, according to Mike Ambulance and Fire Department to make a plan and create a disaster kit. Lacey, the regional installation emergency (from on-base) 911 “The importance of a disaster preparedness manager for Marine Corps Base Camp Butler. (from off-base) 098-83-7911 kit cannot be overstated when it comes to sav- Kadena AB Access Operator 098-938-1111 “After the typhoon has passed, an internal U.S. Naval Hospital Emergency Room ing a life when a disaster strikes,” he said. and external check on your quarters and prop- (from on-base) 643-7338/7433 Once a typhoon is in the area, Andrews erty should be conducted for any damage,”

Military installations use a system of nine typhoon readiness levels called Tropical Cyclone Conditions of Readiness, commonly displayed as TCCOR levels, to inform personnel of the current typhoon threat and DISASTER KIT READINESS LEVELS actions they should take. The conditions are: BOTTLED Water TCCOR 4 TCCOR 1 TCCOR 1 Recovery • At least one gallon daily per Destructive winds of 50 knots Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater Once destructive winds have subsided. person for up to seven days. or greater are possible within 72 are anticipated within 12 hours. All Actual winds are 34 to 49 knots. Food hours. TCCOR 4 will be continuously military installations will take preventative Widespread damage and hazards may • Stock enough food for at least in effect as a minimm condition of action in preparation of an imminent still exist. seven days consisting of non- readiness annually June 1-Nov. 30 typhoon. • Non-essential functions remain closed. perishable packaged or canned • Stock up on food, bottled water, • Fill bathtub with water for sanitation needs. • No outdoor activity is authorized foods and juices, and any special flashlights, candles and other typhoon • Move high-value items to a central point in other than workers from predesignated foods for infants or the elderly. supplies. quarters to prevent damage. emergency crews. MISCellaneous items • Secure items inside before going on • Check emergency lights and flashlights. • DoDDS schools remain closed. • Non-electric can opener leave or temporary duty. • Limit outside activities. • Alcohol consumption prohibited until • Gas-powered cooker with fuel • Continue to monitor storm progress. command sounds normal liberty. • Disposable plates and utensils TCCOR 3 • If a fire hazard exists or power fails, turn off • Blankets and pillows Destructive winds of 50 knots or electricity, water and gas until power returns. Storm Watch • Clothing to include rain gear and greater are possible within 48 hours. • No school for Department of Defense The base is still experiencing effects of sturdy shoes • Inventory all supplies. Dependent Schools. Children return or remain the typhoon. A storm may still exist in a • First-aid kit • Prepare and fill water containers. at home. nearby location. Heightened alert status • Toiletries and hygiene items • Select the most centralized room in the • Refuse collection services stop. Occupants is necessary to rapidly establish regular • Flashlights and batteries house for a living area during the storm. must secure garbage, cans and bulk items TCCOR condition in case the storm • Battery-operated radio • Fill privately owned vehicles with gas. • Alcohol consumption prohibited. changes course. Hazardous conditions • Whistle • Pre-position emergency supplies. may still exist due to storm damage. • Fire extinguisher, matches • Initiate a general clean-up around TCCOR 1 Caution • Commissary and exchange resume • Dust mask residence and office. Remove all loose items Destructive winds of 50 knots or more operations unless otherwise directed by • Charged cell phone, extra battery outside and secure those left outside. Civil anticipated within 12 hours. Actual winds installation commander. • Cash (dollars and yen) engineers usually travel throughout the are 35 to 49-knots. • Everyone will return to work within • Credit Cards (banks and bank base to ensure items such as playground • Non-mission-essential personnel released two hours from the time Storm Watch is teller machines may not be equipment are put away or secured, but this to quarters declared unless otherwise instructed by accessible) requires cooperation from base residents. • Secure/sandbag exterior doors/windows. their commander. • Prescription medications, and • Turn off all non-essential electrical items. • DoDDS teachers and staff will return glasses TCCOR 2 • Discontinue outdoor activities except those to work during normal work hours, but • Towels, rags and mops Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater in direct support of urgent military missions. students will not report until “All Clear” • Keys, local maps are anticipated within 24 hours. • The base exchange, commissary, gas unless otherwise instructed. • Place important documents • Continue to monitor storm progress. stations and all AAFES facilities close. • Alcohol consumption prohibited. such as insurance papers, medical • Locate all utility shut-off points and • Alcohol consumption prohibited. records, banking information and prepare for immediate shut-off if necessary. All Clear Social Security cards in a waterproof • Re-check outside areas for loose items. TCCOR 1 Emergency All clear is announced by each camp container Housing residents are responsible for Destructive winds of 50 knots or commander as they declare hazards For those with Pets securing their quarters and all items outside greater are occurring. no longer exist. However, be alert to • Proper identification, the home including outdoor toys, bicycles, • All outside activities are prohibited. possible damage and hazardous road immunization records and barbecue grills, trash cans, tables and chairs. • Stay tuned to American Forces Network conditions. DoDDS teachers, staff and medications Residents in towers also need to bring items radio and television channels. students will return to school during • Ample food and water from the balconies inside. • Alcohol consumption prohibited. normal hours. • A carrier or cage • A muzzle and leash okinawa marine | COMMUNITY place | May 27, 2011 May 27 - june 2 In Theaters Now 11 Foster Hansen courtney schwab today Priest (PG13), 6 and 9 p.m. TODAY Prom (PG), 6 p.m.; The Lincoln Lawyer TODAY Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger TODAY Thor (PG13), 7 p.m. saturday Rango (PG), noon; Battle: Los (R), 9 p.m. Tides (PG13), 6 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday Battle: Los Angeles (PG13), 5 p.m. Angeles (PG13) 3 p.m.; Fast Five (PG13), 6 p.m.; Saturday Thor (PG13), 6 p.m.; Sucker Punch Saturday Battle: Los Angeles (PG13), 2 and sunday Paul (R), 5 p.m. TYphoonreadiness The Lincoln Lawyer (R), 9:30 p.m. (PG13), 9 p.m. 6 p.m. monday-Thursday Closed SUNDay Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger sunday Prom (PG), 2 p.m.; The Lincoln Law- sunday Thor (PG13), 2 and 6 p.m. Tides (PG13), noon, 4 and 8 p.m. yer (R), 5:30 p.m. Monday Battle: Los Angeles (PG13), 7 p.m. Theater DIRECTORY monday Rango (PG13), 1 p.m.; Fast Five (PG13), monday Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stanger tuesday Closed 4 p.m.; The Lincoln Lawyer (R), 7:30 p.m. Tides (PG13), 3 and 7 p.m. wednesday Priest (PG13), 7 p.m. CAMP FOSTER 645-3465 TUEsday Fast Five (PG13), 7 p.m. tuesday Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stanger thursday Closed Kadena air base 634-1869 wednesday Battle: Los Angeles (PG13), 7 p.m. Tides (PG13), 7 p.m. (USO Night) 632-8781 thursday Pirates of the Caribbean: On Wednesday Sucker Punch (PG13), 7 p.m. mcas futenma 636-3890 Stranger Tides (PG13), 7 p.m. thursday Priest (PG13), 7 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 636-2113 Kadena CAMP COURTNEY 622-9616 Futenma kinser TODAY Sucker Punch (PG13), 6 p.m.; The CAMP HANSEN 623-4564 TODAY Battle: Los Angeles (PG13), 6:30 p.m. TODAY Sucker Punch (PG13), 6:30 p.m. Lincoln Lawyer (R), 9 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 623-5011 Saturday Pirates of the Caribbean: On saturday Sucker Punch (PG13), 3 p.m.; The Saturday Priest (PG13), noon, 3, 6 and 9 CAMP KINSER 637-2177 Stranger Tides (PG13), 12:30, 4 and 7:30 p.m. p.m. Lincoln Lawyer (R), 6:30 p.m. Camp Schwab 625-2333 sunday Paul (R), 4 p.m.; Battle: Los Angeles SUNDAY Sucker Punch (PG13), 3 p.m.; The SUndaY Sucker Punch (PG13), 1 p.m.; Priest (USO NIGHT) 625-3834 (PG13), 7 p.m. Lincoln Lawyer (R), 6:30 p.m. (PG13), 4 and 7 p.m. monday Thor (PG13), 6:30 p.m. monday Closed monday Priest (PG13), 7 p.m. tuesday Closed tuesday Closed Tuesday Thor (PG13), 7 p.m. Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. wednesday Closed Wednesday Pirates of the Caribbean: On Wednesday Thor (PG13), 7 p.m. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a thursday Closed Stranger Tides (PG13), 3 and 6:30 p.m. thursday Thor (PG13), 7 p.m. complete listing, visit www.shopmyexchange.com. thursday The Lincoln Lawyer (R), 6:30 p.m.

Single marine ChapEL SCHEDULE Camp Foster | 645-7486 Camp Hansen | 622-9350 program events • Catholic: Mon-Fri, 11:45 a.m.; • Catholic: Sun, 10 a.m., East Chapel Sat, 5 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m. • Latter Day Saints: Wed, 6:30 p.m., Library For more information, or to sign • Christian Science: Sun, 11 a.m., Building 442 • Protestant: Sun, 11 a.m., West Chapel up, contact the Single Marine • Eastern Orthodox: Divine Liturgy, Sun, Program at 645-3681. 9:30 a.m.; Vespers, Sat, 5 p.m. Camp McTureous | 622-9350 • Gospel: Sun, 11:30 a.m.; 2nd, 3rd Sun, • Gospel: Sun, 12:30 p.m. Children’s Church, 11 a.m. SMP Softball Tournament - June 10 - 12 • Jewish: (Informal) Fri, 6:30 p.m. Camp Kinser | 637-1148 • This tournament, held at the Camp Hansen parade deck, is open to teams • Latter Day Saints: Mon, 6:30 p.m. • Catholic: Sun, noon island-wide. Team members should arrive at 6 a.m. and the games will start at 8:05 a.m. There will be a coach’s meeting June 7 at 6 p.m. at the SMP office. • Lutheran DVD Worship: Sun, 4 p.m. • Protestant: Sun, 9:30 a.m. The registration deadline is June 8 at the SMP office or via e-mail to kallie. • Muslim: Prayer, Fri, 12:45 p.m. [email protected]. • Protestant: Sun, 8:30 a.m. MCAS Futenma | 636-3058 • Seventh Day Adventist: Sat, 9:30 a.m., • Catholic: Sun, noon Expo/Pineapple Park Trip (NOrthern camps) - June 11 at Torii Station 644-5701/644-4281 • Contemporary: Fri, 7 p.m.; Sun, 9 a.m. • EXPO Park has many activities for sea-lovers to enjoy. One of Expo Park’s greatest features is the Churaumi Aquarium, the largest in Japan. Pineapple Park has many types of pineapples which are used in the production of soap Camp Schwab | 622-9350 Kadena Air Base | 634-1288 and many other products such as cakes and candies. All can be sampled and • Catholic: Sun, 5:30 p.m. www.kadenachapel.org purchased during the tour. Sign up by June 9. Bus will leave Camp Hansen • Protestant: Sun, 4 p.m. • Catholic: Sun, 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Semper Fit Gym at 9 a.m. and Camp Schwab Semper Fit Gym at 10 a.m. Sun, 11:45 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Camp Lester | 643-7248 Sun, 4 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1; SMP NEW REPRESENTATIVE TRAINING - JUNE 13 • Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m. Daily Mass, Mon-Fri, 11:30 a.m., Chapel 1; • This training will be held at the SMP main office on Camp Foster Building 5674 starting at 3 p.m. • Non-Denominational: Sun, 9 a.m., Reconciliation, Sun, 3:15 p.m., Chapel 1 Hospital Chapel; Sun, 10 a.m., Lester • Contemporary: Sun, 10 a.m., Chapel 1 SMP Discover Golf Chapel • Gospel: Sun, 10:30 a.m., Chapel 3 • Free golf lessons for single Marines and sailors will be offered on the first and • Protestant Bible Institute: Tues, 6 p.m., third Friday of every month from 9-11 a.m. at Taiyo Golf Course. Participants Camp Courtney | 622-9350 Chapel 1 will meet at the SMP office on Camp Foster by 8 a.m. Lessons are provided on • Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m. • Traditional: Sun, 9:30 a.m., Chapel 2 a space-available basis. • Protestant: Sun, 10:45 a.m. • Wiccan/Pagan: Sat, 2 p.m., Building 856 Volunteer opportunities • Kinser Elementary School “Field Day:” Volunteer to set up booths and for upcoming special worship services and events for all marine corps base chapels do activities with the children from 8-10:45 a.m. May 27. visit: www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan/pages/aroundmcbj/chapel.aspx Mention of any company in this notice does not constitute endorsement by the Marine Corps. May 16 - May 20

Rifle Range Lance Cpl. Robbie Daniel, Japanese phrase of the week: Marine Corps Base, 339 “Tasukete kudasai” Pistol Range (pronounced tas-u-kete ku-da-sigh) Capt. Alan L. Brittingham, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, 378 It means, “Please help!” okinawa marine | SPORTS | May 27, 2011

Marines12 test warrior spirit at Bushido Challenge

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

ore than 150 Marines pushed themselves to the limit during the 2nd MAnnual Bushido Challenge at Camp Hansen May 20. Hosted by the Single Marine Program, the Bushido Challenge combines eight events including a physical fitness test and combat fitness test to challenge the fitness of each team of four competitors. “The word Bushido stands for ‘the way of the warrior.’ It comes from the days of the samurai,” said Randy Mitchell, director of the Single Marine Program. Mitchell said he and his staff designed the Bushido Challenge to push Marines and allow them to get some training. “I wanted to come up with an idea that brought (Marines) out here for a reason,” said Marines conduct pull-ups as a part of the physical fitness test during the 2nd Annual Bushido Challenge Mitchell. “So, that’s how this came about. May 20 at Camp Hansen. The Bushido Challenge is hosted by the Single Marine Program and combines “It’s not a strongman competition; it’s not eight events to push Marines physically and mentally. just a field meet,” Mitchell explained. “This is an event built to focus on Marine Corps core one challenge to the next, the fatigue could be of the other events had a maximum-point competencies. Because we focus on events like seen in their faces. value. The most points any team could accu- the PFT and CFT, it affords commandsthe op- “This challenge is really forcing me to dig mulate was 4,400. portunity to participate for training purposes.” deep and see just how far I can push my- Once each member of a The PFT was the first event in the day. self,” said Cpl. Jerrell Jackson, a member of team completed an event, The other events were: the CFT, straight-arm “The 4 Dudes from Schwab,” another team their scores were added hang, shot put, kettle bell snatch, a swim and participating in the challenge. together creating a team a course which featured a tire flip, water jug “They truly have the warrior spirit,” composite score for that and sandbag transfer. said Mitchell about the Marines who event. The last event was a puzzle assembly. competed. “To do a PFT, CFT, a swim The Bushido Chal- After completing the PFT, the teams choose portion, (straight-arm hang), tire flip, lenge is an annual what order to do the other events. The only kettle bell and a shot put in one day and event and will be stipulation was that all events had to be com- compete and come with the scores here next year to push pleted in seven hours. they’re coming out with, that’s Marines and test their “You (need) physical strength and definitely the way of the warrior in my warrior ethos, accord- physical endurance to keep going through all book.” ing to Mitchell. the different challenges during the day,” said Scores for the Sgt. Edward Ballard, a member of “Rome 3,” PFT and CFT in- one of the teams participating in the challenge. cluded several Ballard and his team heard about the Bush- perfect scores ido Challenge two days before it took place. of 300. Each “For us it was nothing, just another day,” said Ballard jokingly. As the participants made their way from

Lance Cpl. Tinashe Ngewenya, a member of “Beast Mode,” a team participating in the 2nd Annual Bushido Challenge, sprints with ammunition cans during the Bushido Challenge at Camp Hansen May 20.

Marines race from the start line of the three-mile run portion of a physical fitness test during the 2nd Annual Bushido Challenge May 20 at Camp Hansen. After the PFT, Marines were allotted the remainder of the seven- hour time limit to finish the day’s events.