Paint the Town Free Service for Eligible Personnel

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january 30, 2009 www.okinawa.usmc.mil Tax Center offers Paint the town free service for eligible personnel

Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough okinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — In life there are few guar- antees, however most Americans would probably agree there are two: you die, and you pay taxes. Although the Marine Corps can do little to change the first, they do offer a free service to assist with those Uncle Sam woes. The Camp Foster Tax Center will open for business Feb. 3 in building 437 on Camp Foster for eligible personnel wanting to complete and file their federal and state tax returns. The Camp Foster Tax Center offers free federal and state tax return services for active duty and retired personnel and their dependents, as well as Department of Defense civilians and contractors. Marines of Team 4 make their way up a ladder well during a mock room clearing drill in the Central “This is a great opportunity for service Training Area Jan. 23. Marines from Ammunition Co., 3rd Supply Bn., 3rd Marine Logistics Group, members to save money,” said Sgt. Brandon M. practice close-quarters battle, urban patrolling and room clearing training, instructed by Marines from Sheffield, the Camp Foster Tax Center noncom- 1st Platoon, Company A, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, to sharpen their urban missioned officer in charge. “They are also combat skills. SEE STORY ON PAGES 6-7 Photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost guaranteed to get professional service because it’s Marines serving Marines.” The Tax Center will assist walk-in customers Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. New PT uniform arrives on Okinawa Appointments may be scheduled Monday and Tuesday from 3-5:00 p.m. until April 15. The Tax Center will continue to operate past Running suit authorized for liberty attire the April 15 tax deadline until June 15. Dur- ing those two months, the center will assist Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough Every Marine must own units to receive the new run- customers Monday through Thursday from 8 okinawa marine staff one running suit before Octo- ning suits were the Wounded see TAX pg ber; however the new running Warrior Regiment, Marine CAMP FOSTER — Okinawa suit does not replace the exist- recruiting commands and Marines may soon notice a dif- ing green physical training recruit depots. ference in formation runs as uniform. The new uniform The development of the the new Marine Corps physi- can be worn in any combina- running suit has been a hands- cal training running suits tion with the green PT shorts on process for most Marines. begin to arrive on island. and undershirt; however it is Marine Corps Systems Com- Starting next week, III Ma- not authorized to wear with mand asked both active duty and reserve Marines to fill-out rine Expeditionary Force’s the USMC sweat suit. a uniform survey on what they major subordinate commands Also, Marines are autho- wanted in a PT uniform. will begin distributing the rized to wear the running Taking into consideration running suits to Okinawa- suit jacket while on leave and the recommendations made by based Marines. liberty as an outer garment. Marines, the Corps developed According to Marine Ad- Although the running suits The Camp Foster Tax Center will be open for two designs and allowed Ma- business Feb. 3 for eligible personnel wanting ministrative Message 0015/09, are new to Okinawa, they have rines to vote on the uniforms. to complete and file their federal and state tax all Marines will be initially already been distributed to The new design is a hit with returns. Photo by Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough issued one running suit at no several commands throughout most Marines. cost to the individual. the Marine Corps. The first see UNIFORM pg 4

Huskies clear the way FOLLOWING IN HIS SONS’ FOOTSTEPS New explosive device detecting equipment Father of two Marine Corps lieutenants pays tribute to fallen de

i helps Marines clear route in Afghanistan. son by joining Navy Medical Corps. PG. 9 PG. 10 Ins okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | january 30, 2009 Cardinals perched to win Superbowl XLIII

Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough quarterback Kurt Warner this season. Warner’s ers on their toes as he mixes a solid run game last trip to the Super Bowl was in 1998. with aerial trick plays. ho would have guessed at the begin- For most of the season this rag-tag bunch This Super Bowl will be the ultimate battle, ning of the season Tom Brady wouldn’t was laughed at, but as of late they have shown as it pits offense versus defense. Even though play more than three snaps, the Detroit they are serious about winning. the saying goes “offense sells tickets, defense Lions would set a winless record of 0-16 and The Cardinals finished the season 9-7, and wins ball games,” I think the veteran play of the Arizona Cardinals would be in the Super there were certainly teams with better regular Kurt Warner, with a completion percentage of Bowl? records in the NFL. But because of their ter- 68 percent, will prevail over the hyped Pitts- Okay, maybe everyone guessed the Lions rible division, the Cardinals clinched a playoff burgh defense. We will find out if the “Steel would go winless, but I don’t think anyone seat; not a huge accomplishment. Curtain” lives up to its name. could have predicted the Cardinals making Most critics wrote them off as a lost cause at So even though in the past the Cardinals it to the Super Bowl. I mean, how the beginning of the playoffs, but the Cardinals have been mediocre at best, I am going out on opinion could they? proved they are a team to be reckoned with. a limb and predicting them to win Super Bowl Since moving to Arizona from St. Louis in Putting up 95 points in their last three games, XLIII. 1988, the Cardinals have had only two win- an NFL post-season record, they have shown Although every sports enthusiast in the ning seasons. they deserve to be on the NFL’s main stage. nation will probably be against me on Super They have a history of second-rate football While they face a tough task at routing the Bowl Sunday, I will proudly stand and root for teams and everyone assumed this year would perennial powerhouse Pittsburgh Steelers, I the underdog in anticipation of the Cardinals Wbe no different. Last year they started quarter- believe they will win if they stick to their high raising the Lombardi Trophy. back Matt Linear, a Heisman trophy winner, tempo offense. Coach Ken Whisenhunt will Yarbrough is a combat correspondent with but decided to go with 37-year-old veteran most likely keep Troy Polamalu and the Steel- the Okinawa Marine Newspaper. No miracles here, Steelers destined for victory

Cpl. Ryan Wicks in this year’s Superbowl. most difficult schedule in 2008, enough to toss would-be blockers The Steelers are nothing like with an opponent winning per- and he’s got eyes all around his he playoffs often times pro- last year’s Patriots. They don’t have centage of .598 which makes their head. vide an opportunity for teams a perfect record, their poster-boy record more than impressive. Harrison became the first like the Arizona Cardinals quarterback is not hidden behind a One of the hidden battles this undrafted player to win the NFL’s to make a name for themselves seemingly impenetrable offensive Sunday will be between Ken Defensive Player of the Year Award by sticking it to the bullies of line and they don’t have a poorly Whisenhunt and the Steelers. in 2008. the National Football dressed and depressed head coach Whisenhunt is Pittsburgh’s former On the offensive side of the ball, opinion League. The Cards have in Bill Belichick. offensive coordinator. players to look out for are running done just that and now What the Steelers do have is a Most of the players on Pitts- back Willie Parker and quarterback it is time for them to face the most 12-4 record, an under-rated and burgh’s defense have seen first Ben Roethlisberger. Parker has prestigious football team in history, under-appreciated quarterback in hand the inner-workings of been pretty quiet this year, mostly the Pittsburgh Steelers. Roethlisberger and a coach wise Whisenhunt’s brain housing due to an injury taking him down The story line is similar to last beyond his years, Mike Tomlin. group. This will allow the Steel- early in the season. However, let no year when the Giants came out of Oh, and I forgot to mention that ers’ defense to become impervious one forget that he is “Fast” Willie nowhere to take down the un- they actually have heart and play to those game-changing double Parker and he will explode through beaten New England Patriots. But as a team. reverses and flea-flickers Whisen- the Cardinals defense, just like he there will be no Cinderella stories The Steelers played the NFL’s hunt loves to run. did to the Seahawks two years ago. T The Steelers’ suffocating and By the way, if anyone forgot, Parker confusing defense will soak up the holds the NFL record for the longest spotlight. They have been doing run in Superbowl history: 75 yards. it all year and are ranked number Big Ben will be contributing in a Sempertoons one in the NFL. less flashy, but more important way. Created by Gunnery Sgt. Charles Wolf The three players who drive the He embodies the blue-collar mental- defense are safety Troy Polamalu ity that is Pittsburgh. He is a leader and linebackers James Harrison and the Steelers’ heart and soul. He and James Farrior. All three players won’t break any records and will will be representing the Steelers in probably be just a tiny blip on the the 2009 Pro Bowl. statistical radar. I’d say about 180 Polamalu is the Steelers’ second- yards and two touchdowns. That’ll ary. Case-in-point. He can read do Ben, that’ll do. plays, blitz the quarterback, react And that will be all she wrote. to changes instantly, catch balls Stifling defense coupled with a other wide-outs can’t and he deliv- clean and rhythmic offense. Head- ers the game-changing hits. Many lines will read, “Steel Curtain slams have compared him to a guided down on Cardinals’ Offense.” missile. So for all of those “diehard Car- Leading the front seven, are dinals fans,” you can go back into James Farrior and James Harrison. the woodwork where you came Farrior is the salty veteran, lead- from, and wait around for next ing with experience and tackling year’s bandwagon when another everything that moves. mediocre team finds themselves in Harrison is a combination of the Superbowl. speed, strength and awareness. Wicks is a combat correspon- He is fast enough to chase down dent with the Okinawa Marine the jetting wide receiver, strong Newspaper.

to submit an opinion or editorial, e-mail us at [email protected] okinawa marine | NEWS | january 30, 2009 Energy saving paint cuts heating, cooling costs Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost okinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — The Facilities Engineer Envi- ronmental Branch is testing a new experimental paint on several buildings in an effort to reduce energy costs. The idea for the project was conceived by Leslie B. Smith, support section supervisor at the environmental branch, in response to the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which mandates all government buildings become more energy efficient. The paint, manufactured by Specialty Concrete De- sign Incorporated, is designed to better insulate and reduce heat transfer. The painting began Jan. 12 after about a year of planning and funding re- quests. The test subjects are buildings 470, 472 and 473. Building 473’s roof Scaffolding surrounds building 470, a barracks on Camp Foster. The Facilities Engineer Environmental Branch began recently testing an experimental paint in an effort to make government buildings more energy efficient. Photo by Lance Cpl. was coated with the paint, Thomas W. Provost while building 470’s exter- nal sides were painted from buildings will be monitored ey and keep us cool in the ducing the amount of heat “This stuff is almost too the ground up. Building with thermal photography. summer, then that’s good absorbed and transferred good to be true,” Smith 472 was not painted and In addition, temperature for us,” said Cpl. Janel A. through the walls. said. “If it works, then we will serve as the constant and humidity readings will Regalado, military police According to Smith, will apply it to all build- to help analyze the effec- be continuously recorded with the Central Provost a coating of this paint is ings on all camps.” tiveness of the paint on the and monitored. Marshal’s Office here. equal to approximately 20 Plans to coat buildings other two buildings. The monitoring period The paint can reduce inches of ceiling insula- on Camps Hansen and According to Smith, is a one-year cycle that the amount of energy re- tion. He went on to say Courtney with the paint are each building’s electrical started this month. quired to maintain desired the new paint is safe for scheduled to begin within consumption data will be “If its going to save the temperature levels in the humans and the environ- the next two months, Smith recorded monthly, and the Marine Corps a lot of mon- summer and winter by re- ment. said. New online course offers insight into MAGTF Lance Cpl. Paul D. Zellner Each lesson is designed to be okinawa marine staff completed in one sitting. “Students that have or haven’t CAMP HANSEN — The College of been to the instructor-led course Continuing Education added the or the Staff Non Commissioned Marine Air Ground Task Force Fires Officers Academy can greatly Interactive Multimedia Instructions benefit from the new course,” said course to Marine Net Jan. 6. Maj. Erich Knox, project officer According to the course descrip- in the courseware development tion, it is primarily for field grade section for the COCE. The course officers and senior enlisted in sup- will also improve knowledge port of the Marine Expeditionary of MAGTF operations and joint Brigade, Marine Expeditionary operations. Force, and higher levels. However, “The average student will have a any service member can take the much better understanding of the Marines from the 8th Provisional Security Company, deployed to the course and will gain 15 promotion joint targeting and fires process,” Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, prepare to board a Zodiac raft in points upon completion. said Knox. “This is critical, espe- Dijbouti City, Dijbouti. Students enrolled in the new Marine Air Ground Task Students will learn the basics of cially for those working in joint Force Multimedia Instructions course offered by the College of Continuing Education will learn the basics of MAGTF and joint unit operations such as planning, coordinating, executing operation centers or schools.” JTF-Horn of Africa. Official Marine Corps photo and assessing target operations. Service members who cannot The 28-hour course has 22 les- take the in-house course will now The new online course will be Pacific instructors. sons split up into three modules, in- be able to take the online version a pre-requisite to the instructor- For more information, contact cluding fires organization, planning to gain a broad understanding of led course taught by the Expedi- the COCE at commercial (703) 784 and execution/combat assessment. the MAGTF course content. tionary Warfare Training Group - 2999 or DSN 278-2999. okinawa marine | NEWS | january 30, 2009 briefs Marine Corps upholds traditions dodds student transportation policy High school and middle school students must Lance Cpl. Tyler J. Hlavac have a school bus pass in order to board their okinawa marine staff assigned school bus starting Sunday. If a student loses his or her bus pass, a CA MP FOSTER — military dependant’s department of defense The Marine Corps identification card will be accepted until a new pass is obtained. will continue to follow Replacement passes can be obtained at the its saluting tradition Camp Foster or Kadena Student Transportation despite recent con- Office weekdays from 7:30 a.m. through 4 gressional legislation p.m. changing the standard Please contact the Student Transportation rules for saluting. Office at 645-8763/0706 with any questions. Section 595 of the Duncan Hunter Na- courtney flea market cancelled tional Defense Autho- Due to end of year inventory, the MCCS flea rization Act for fiscal market, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday year 2009, authorizes aboard Camp Courtney, has been cancelled. The “members and veter- next scheduled flea market is Feb. 7-8 on Camp Section 595 of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal Foster. For more details call 645-5829. ans present, but not year 2009, authorizes service members and veterans present, but not in uniform to in uniform during the salute during the playing of the national anthem in the same manner as members Ravenscroft performances playing of the national in uniform. This policy does not apply to active duty Marines. Official Marine Corps photo The Pacific Okinawa Players are scheduled anthem, to render the to perform “Ravenscroft” at the Camp Foster military salute in the let there be no con- while facing the di- gone before, with Ma- Performing Arts Auditorium. Show dates are same manner as mem- fusion; that has not rection of the music. rines who will carry Thursday and Friday and Feb. 12-14. All show bers in uniform.” changed,” Conway During indoor cer- the torch through the times are 7:30 p.m. However, Marines stated, in All-Marine emonies when Ma- future,” Conway said. Tickets are $10 each. See www.pops-oki- will continue to ad- Message 052/08. rines are in uniform “Any loss of tradi- nawa.org for more information. here to the standards The commandant and uncovered, they tion or improper ob- stated in his message will face the flag or servation of custom Kadena eagles joint baseball team and regulations on The Kadena Eagles Joint Military Baseball saluting set forth in that Marines not in the direction of the blurs our identity and Team is scheduled to conduct tryouts February Chapter 18 of Marine uniform will face the music if the flag is not weakens us as an in- through March. Corps Order P5060.20, flag, stand at atten- present, and stand at stitution.” For information, contact Brandon Dong at Marine Corps Drill tion and place their attention. For more informa- [email protected] or go to the and Ceremonies Man- right hand over their Conway explained tion regarding section team’s website at www.leaguelineup.com/kade- ual, according to Gen. heart. When covered, in his message the 595 of the Duncan nabaseball. Ja mes T. Conway, Marines in civilian at- importance of con- Hunter National De- commandant of the tire will remove their tinuing the Marines fense Authorization Young Marines Marine Corps. headgear and place Corps’ customs and Act, visit the Web site The Camp Foster Young Marines are hold- “By custom and tra- their right hand over traditions. http://www.govtrack. ing registration for their upcoming boot camp their heart. When “Customs and tra- us/. ALMAR 052/08 Saturday at Building 5710 aboard Camp Foster. dition, Marines do not For more information contact Sgt. Smith at render the hand salute the flag is not pres- ditions provide a link can be viewed at the 645-1323. when out of uniform ent, Marines will act to the past; they bond Web site http://www. or when uncovered, in the same manner Marines who have marines.mil/. credo marriage retreat CREDO is scheduled to host a Valentine’s weekend marriage enrichment retreat Feb. UNIFORM from pg 1 13-15. Gunnery Sgt. Benny Deleon, a contracting The retreat will provide couples the tools specialist with the Regional Contracting Of- to communicate more effectively and work as fice, said the uniform is an improvement over a team to preserve and enhance love, commit- the past. ment and friendship. Registration begins today, for more details or “I can remember when we had the gray to sign up call 645-3041 or e-mail credo.mcbb. sweats,” said Deleon. “These running suits are [email protected]. definitely better.” Lance Cpl. Joel Booth, a range coach with SUICIDE AWARENess & prevention H&S Bn., agrees. CREDO is scheduled to host a Suicide “They are more comfortable, better fitting and (Left) Lance Cpl. Joel Booth, a range coach with Awareness and Prevention Workshop Feb. 11. a lot more appealing than green-on-green,” said Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps The workshop is geared toward small unit Booth. “It’s better than I expected.” leaders. The registration deadline is Feb. 9. Base, models the new uniform while Lance Cpl. For more information on the new running Daniel Castillo, a graphics specialist with Combat For more details or to sign up call CREDO at suits, Marines may contact their respective 645-3041. Camera, H&S Battalion, MCB, models the old command supply office. uniform. Photo by Lance Cpl. Antwain J. Graham FLU Vaccinations at foster Px U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa will be providing influenza vaccinations at the Camp Foster TAX from pg 1 Post Exchange main entrance Saturday from a.m. to 3 p.m. It will remain open until 11 a.m. Web site at https://mypay.dfas.mil. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The vaccination is free, and on Fridays. “It is important for people to come prepared eligible personnel are reminded to bring their Eligible personnel must bring their military with their documents,” said Sheffield. “They pro- Department of Defense identification cards. identification card, social security card and vide a foundation for the tax return and ensure For information, contact Lt. Cmdr. Henderson dependents’ social security cards to receive as- timely and accurate tax preparation.” at 643-7622. sistance with preparing and filing taxes. In addition to the Camp Foster Tax Center, TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to Personnel should also bring wage and earn- services to prepare and file state and federal taxes [email protected], or fax ings statement forms such as W-2 and 1099-R, for Marines are also offered at the Camp Courtney your request to 645-3803. The deadline for interest and dividend statements from banks Personal Services Center on scheduled dates. submitting a brief is noon every Friday. The and a copy of last year’s federal and state re- For more information about the Camp Foster Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit all turns. Service members can obtain a copy of Tax Center or tax services offered on Courtney submitted material. their wage and earning statements on the myPay call 645-4829. okinawa marine | NEWS | january 30, 2009 Learning motorcycle safety just got better HQMC unleashes 13 horses upon Okinawa for safety Lance Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin purchase a bike,” he added. okinawa marine staff Course participants are required to bring the minimum personal CAMP FOSTER — Status of Forces protective gear: approved helmet, Agreement personnel on Okinawa eye-protection, full fingered gloves, interested in purchasing a motor- safety vest and over-the-ankle cycle can get hands-on experience boots. with new 250cc Hyosung Comet “We are real excited to have motorcycles purchased for Marine these bikes for the students,” Green Corps Bases Camp Smedley D. said. “We want to make this a world Butler’s Motorcycle Training Cen- class training facility.” ter located on Kadena Air Base. Riders taking or planning to Thirteen motorcycles arrived participate in other courses of- at the training center Jan. 19 for fered at the center, including the students interested in taking the Experienced Rider’s Course or the Basic Rider’s Course. Military Sport Bike Course, must “This is a great opportunity still bring their own bikes. for those who want to buy a bike,” For more information about said Paul Green, a representative the courses offered at the training Thirteen blue 250cc Hyosung Comet motorcycles stand ready for use at for Cape Fox Professional Services center contact the MCB Camp But- Marine Corps Bases Camp Smedley D. Butler’s Motorcycle Training Center on and instructor at the center. ler motorcycle training section at Kadena Air Base Jan. 26. The motorcycles are part of a safety plan to help “They can participate in train- 634-2450 or the MCB safety office curb motorcycle accidents throughout the Marine Corps and to help potential ing, and later decide if they want to at 645-3806. riders decide if they want to invest in a bike. Photo by Lance Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin MCAS Iwakuni back on Patriot Express route

Lance Cpl. Joseph Marianelli ing in Shanghai, China or Iwakuni Approach Staff sleeping outside of airport terminals in November MARINE CORPS AIR STA- because they were lost. TION IWAKUNI, Japan “We did the best that we — After a more than two- absolutely could with what year stoppage of service, we had, but really the right the Patriot Express will answer is to get an airplane once again begin servicing that lands right here,” said MCAS Iwakuni April 2. O’Halloran. Not only will direct ser- Having the Patriot Ex- vice to and from MCAS press will make it much Iwakuni assist service cheaper and easier for members and families who service members to visit are executing permanent Iwakuni. change of station orders, “If it’s a shorter more but it will serve as another direct flight I would take means for people on Okina- it, definitely,” said Douglas wa to travel space-available J. Baker, the security man- to and from Iwakuni. ager of Marine Corps Bases “If it saves time and it Japan. saves money it’s definitely Passengers going on leave something people should The Patriot Express, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10 aircraft, will become the primary method of using the Patriot Express airline transportation for service members executing permanent change of station orders try,” said Garnett Carter, will pay a nominal commer- to and from the station, as well as providing a relatively reliable source of space-available the host nation support of- travel out of Okinawa. Photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph Marianelli cial airline fee, currently at ficer of Marine Corps Base $27.40, well below a full-fare Smedley D. Butler. re-board and be dropped has traveled to Iwakuni in a foreign country.” ticket. The Patriot Express is a off at their respective loca- since Patriot Express service Over the past couple of Now that the Patriot Ex- McDonnell Douglas DC-10 tions. here was cut in Oct. 2006 years, service members press is resuming service to aircraft, sporting 314 seats. The following day, the Pa- probably had a moment of and their families have Iwakuni, it will be incum- It is operated by World triot Express will return to fear or uneasiness during experienced a number of bent upon visitors to use it Airlines and also provides a Seattle via the same route. the journey, and the Patriot attempts by the air station to the fullest. relatively reliable source of “This is really going to Express will alleviate that to reduce travel issues such “Now that it’s coming space-available travel from bring predictability into uncertainty. as the funneling of person- back I would suggest people the United States to Japan. how people arrive here and “Having us fly directly nel to Hiroshima and, very use it otherwise, it’s going to Departing from Seattle, it’s going to really ease a on base was something that recently, the addition of the be the same situation that it the Patriot Express stops lot of the friction, the un- eased myself and my family Marine Corps Community was the last time — they’ll at Yokota Air Base, Tokyo, certainty and the trouble as far as our nerves coming Services’ shuttle picking wind up losing it,” Smith where passengers disem- of getting to Iwakuni,” said here because that’s a long up personnel arriving at said. bark for a customs check. Col. Michael A. O’Halloran, flight,” said Olivia Smith, the Hiroshima airport. Lance Cpl. Kentavist After the customs check, MCAS Iwakuni command- station manpower, MCAS Despite those efforts, Brackin, Okinawa Marine passengers continuing to ei- ing officer. Iwakuni. “The last thing horror stories still occurred Staff, contributed to this ther Iwakuni or Kadena will Virtually everyone who that you want to do is be lost including personnel arriv- story. okinawa marine | FEATURE | january 30, 2009

COMBAT Mindset

Lance Cpl. Sarah E. Wentzel, an ammunition technician with Ammunition Company, 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, reaches to take off her Kevlar after being riddled by a barrage of paint rounds during a mock urban Two Marines with Ammunition Company, 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, assist a casualty to the landing zone during a mock urban patrol in the Central Training Area Jan. 23. Marines from the company under went close-quarters patrol in the Central Training Area Jan. 23. battle, urban patrolling and room clearing training, under the instruction of Marines from 1st. platoon, Company A, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, to sharpen their urban combat skills. Supply Marines get a taste of urban warfare training Story and Photos by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost Trainer qualification and a shot-gun shoot. maintain a level of aggression to successfully okinawa marine staff “Normally we just count ammunition, but complete combat missions. now we get to use it,” said Sgt. Jason A. Wat- The morning consisted of dry runs through mmunitions Company, 3rd Supply Bat- son, an ammunition technician with the com- the town but by the afternoon the streets and talion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, built pany. “We can actually fire the weapons and buildings were littered with simulated paint Aa field ammunition supply point at the see how the ammunition works.” round casings. Central Training Area Jan 10, to train Marines At the end of each week, the platoons under At the end of the day, the Marines were put of the company in a field environment. The went urban warfare training with Marines to the test. The four teams were combined into exercise concluded Sunday. from 1st platoon, Company A, 3rd Reconnais- two and put head-to-head. The company, in addition to training, sup- sance Battalion, instructing them. They used teamwork and the skills prac- ported III Marine Expeditionary Force opera- The urban training was the highlight of the ticed that morning against the recon Marines tions during their time in the field. training evolution for many of the Marines, to fight each other. “The exercise provided them an opportu- said Warrant Officer Christopher M. Lamson, The recon instructors told the Marines they nity to establish a field ammunition supply the storage officer for 3rd Supply Bn. had placed a small ammo can in one of the point in an expeditionary environment,” said The Marines were split into four teams at buildings in Combat Town. Brig. Gen. William M. Faulkner, the com- the beginning of each day. Each team had ap- The first team to return the can to their manding general of the 3rd MLG. “The Ma- proximately three reconnaissance Marines as starting point won. rines also took advantage of the opportunity their instructors. The recon Marines served as referees for the to complete their block one annual training The first order of business was conducting a final engagement. requirements.” patrol through Combat Town. The battle raged on as the teams ducked, While manning the field ammunition sup- The recon Marines ran through scenarios searched, cleared rooms and shot at each other ply point, the company’s platoons alternated step-by-step with the teams to drill-in proper in their effort to find the ammo can. weekly for two weeks to participate in Block 1 techniques for entering buildings, provid- The engagement ended after all of the am- of their pre-deployment training. ing cover and getting them into the combat munition was discharged and the Marines The training included a machine gun shoot, ‘mindset.’ The combat ‘mindset’ is the accep- realized they were fooled; there was no ammo the gas chamber, Humvee Egress Assistance tance and willingness to use deadly force and can hidden in Combat Town. okinawa marine | FEATURE | january 30, 2009

COMBAT Mindset

Two Marines with Ammunition Company, 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, assist a casualty to the landing zone during a mock urban patrol in the Central Training Area Jan. 23. Marines from the company under went close-quarters battle, urban patrolling and room clearing training, under the instruction of Marines from 1st. platoon, Company A, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, to sharpen their urban combat skills.

Staff Sgt. Wesley Matthews, platoon sergeant with Ammunition Company, 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, plays dead after a brief shootout during a mock urban patrol in the Central Training Area Jan. 23. Marines from Ammunition Co., 3rd Supply Bn., 3rd MLG under went close-quarters battle, urban patrolling and room clearing training, instructed by Marines from 1st. Lance Cpl. Sarah E. Wentzel, an ammunition technician with Ammunition platoon, Company A, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, to Company, 3rd Supply Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, provides security sharpen their urban combat skills. in a doorway during the dry run practice of a mock urban patrol in the Central Training Area Jan. 23. okinawa marine | FEATURE | january 30, 2009

Lance Cpl. Seth Hodges provides security during a combat patrol on Route 515 Jan. 9 in Farah province, Afghanistan. The Marines of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment successfully cleared Route 515 of enemy-planted improvised explosive devices and constructed and manned three combat outposts along the route in support of Operation Gateway III. Hodges is a fire team leader with Company I, 3/8, the ground combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Afghanistan. Photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton ‘Team Smasher’ conducts Operation Gateway III Story and Photos by provides a direct route between while traveling through the re- combat element, and Scan Eagle Lance Cpl. Monty Burton the districts of Delaram and Bak- gion. unmanned aerial vehicles to keep special purpose magtf-afghanistan wa in the east of Farah province. “There is more danger during an eye on insurgent activity. “By opening Route 515, we will the commute to work than there The Marines conducted several arines and sailors of 3rd decrease travel time for alliance is actually at work, so it will be in face-to-face meetings with local Battalion, 8th Marine forces, as well as enable civilian everybody’s best interest to have a villagers to ensure they knew the MRegiment (Reinforced), Marine presence in the area,” said Marines were there to provide a and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 Capt. Mike Hoffman, Co. I com- safer environment. During one successfully completed Operation manding officer. meeting, a local villager said he Gateway III, which lasted Dec. 28 Odom said the outposts are enjoyed the Marine presence in through Sunday, in Farah prov- designed to deny the insurgents the the area and thinks the clearing ince, Afghanistan. ability to disrupt the security that’s and plans to pave the route in the As the ground combat element now established on Route 515. future could definitely bring more of Special Purpose Marine Air While at the outposts, Marines commerce to the Afghan villages. Ground Task Force – Afghani- Lance Cpl. Pete Reed provides conducted both mounted and Throughout the operation, the stan, 3/8 dispatched Weapons security during a patrol in support dismounted security patrols and Marines at the outposts remained Company’s “Team Smasher,” a of Operation Gateway III, Dec. 28 in provided a quick reaction force, vigilant and ready for enemy task-organized element comprised Farah province, Afghanistan. Reed designed to respond at short notice resistance. of a route clearance platoon with is a squad automatic rifleman with to any contingencies that arose During an indirect fire attack in heavy weapons elements, to clear Company I, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine during the operation. When the which combat outpost Barrow was southern Afghanistan’s Route 515. Regiment, the ground combat Marines were not on patrol or on targeted by numerous enemy mor- The Marines of CLB-3, element of Special Purpose Marine standby with the reaction force, tar rounds, the Marines returned SPMAGTF-Afghanistan’s logis- Air Ground Task Force - Afghanistan. they were constantly fortifying fire with 120 mm mortar systems Lance Cpl. Monty Burton tics combat element, followed in their position, which included fill- and dispatched a reaction force in trace, constructing three combat goods, that are vital to the coming thousands of dirt-filled protec- a matter of minutes. outposts along the important munity, to pass through the area tive barriers and laying hundreds “We always have to be ready,” east-west route. Marines of 3/8’s with less resistance,” said Lt. Col. of coils of concertina wire. said Lance Cpl. Anthony Lostal, Co. I provided security for Team David L. Odom, 3/8’s commanding The outposts were reinforced a mortarman with 3/8’s Weapons Smasher and CLB-3’s combat officer. “The clearing of the route with machine guns and 120 mm Co., and one of the mortarmen logisticians by conducting joint will also open the lines of com- mortar systems provided by 3/8’s who quickly responded to the patrols with Afghan National munication between the two major Weapons Co., 81mm mortar pla- attack. “One second too late, and Army soldiers, and then manned district centers.” toon. that could cost a Marine his life,” the outposts once they were con- The construction of the out- The Marines were also support- he said. structed. posts provides an alliance pres- ed from the sky with close-in fire During the course of the op- Route 515, which is notorious ence in a volatile area, which in support provided by several AH- eration, the Marines located and for improvised explosive devices turn provides a safer environment 1W Super Cobra attack helicopters defeated dozens of IEDs, appre- planted by insurgents, has been a for local villagers by eliminating of Marine Light/Attack Helicopter hended and tactically questioned road few have dared to travel, but many of the imminent dangers Squadron 269, a component of several persons of interest and it is an important roadway that that locals and Marines faced the SPMAGTF-Afghanistan’s air eliminated several insurgents. okinawa marine | FEATURE | january 30, 2009

The Husky tactical support vehicle is an important tool in defeating improvised explosive devices used by insurgents against alliance forces in Afghanistan. Photo by Lance Cpl. Monty Burton Huskies help Marines lead way in Afghanistan Lance Cpl. Monty Burton tures with the vehicle.” special purpose magtf-afghanistan 1st Lt. Samuel Murray, the route clearance plt. commander, said arines are employing a his Marines feel very secure in the unique piece of equipment Husky. Mthat’s helping lower the “This is an overall better vehicle threat of improvised explosive than previous models,” Murray devices in Afghanistan. said. “If a mine were to detonate Operation Gateway III, which underneath the vehicle, I am sure involved the clearing of southern the operator would come out of it Afghanistan’s IED-laden Route 515, just fine.” marked the first time the route During Operation Gateway III, clearance platoon of 3rd Battalion, the Huskies proved to be effective 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), after encountering pressure-plate used the Husky tactical support IEDs that detonated beneath the ve- vehicle in combat operations. hicles. Reports confirmed that the The Husky, equipped with an vehicles sustained mostly mini- Interim Vehicle Mounted Mine mal damage that did not require Detector to detect hidden metallic outside assistance to repair and explosives, is similar in construc- no injuries were reported. In most tion to the mine-resistant ambush- cases, the vehicles were back on Cpl. Michael Higuchi (left) helps Lance Cpl. Jason Mueske (right) tighten a protected vehicle, also known the road in less than two hours. piece to a wheel module of a Husky tactical support vehicle on Camp Barber, as the MRAP, with a V-shaped Once the Husky detects an IED, Afghanistan, Dec. 9. Higuchi and Mueske are engineers with route clearance undercarriage to direct the blast it sounds an alarm to the operator platoon, 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (Reinforced). away from the vehicle and protect in the cabin. Photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau its driver. “The sensors on the IVMMD Its single-operator cabin is fitted pin-point exactly where the ex- with armored steel, ballistic win- plosives are hidden,” Murray said. dows and an on-board automatic “Once we figure out where it is, we fire extinguisher. mark it using water-based paint.” The vehicle detects IEDs with The finding is then exploited by its mine detector, IVMMD, which explosive ordnance disposal teams. employs both metal detection and The Husky has also been used in ground penetrating radar sensors Iraq since 2003 to battle the threat to find the deadly IEDs. of IEDs, and now the vehicles are “This is a very safe vehicle,” a vital asset for saving lives and said Andrew Jorgensen, the lead completing the overall mission in field service representative of the Afghanistan. Husky. “There have been a lot “The Husky keeps us from hav- of safety upgrades to ensure the ing to put Marines on the ground operator is well protected. I have to sweep for mines,” Murray known operators to have had an explained. “Although this isn’t the explosive detonate underneath sexiest job in the Marine Corps, it this vehicle, and then 15 minutes is a job that has to be done and we The Huskies are used to help clear southern Afghanistan’s Route 515 during later they are outside taking pic- are well prepared to handle it.” Operation Gateway III in Farah province. Photo by Cpl. Pete Thibodeau 10 okinawa marine | FEATURE | january 30, 2009 Father honors fallen son with military service Cpl. Andrew Avitt Corps, but they told me okinawa marine staff I’m too old.” At 60 years old, 19 e thought it was years over the enlistment a prank when he age limit, Krissoff needed Hreceived a mes- waivers to enlist. sage on his answering “The recruiter told me machine from the White that it would take up to a House. Later that month year,” he said, adding that Bill Krissoff, a 60-year-old even then his chances orthopedic surgeon from didn’t look good. Truckee, Calif., his wife After his meeting with Christine and his son, 1st the president, Krissoff got Lt. Cmdr. Bill Krissoff, 60, joined the Navy Medical Corps after his son, 1st Lt. Nathan Krissoff, died Lt. Austin Krissoff, were his waiver in two days. in Iraq from wounds he had suffered from a road side bomb explosion. He will be deploying with in a small room face-to- Krissoff had set his Combat Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, to Iraq. Photo by Lance Cpl. Thomas W. Provost face with the president. sights on joining the Surrounded by the military several months year and was commis- you are functioning as a Training Schools at Camp families of fallen ser- before meeting with the sioned as an officer in the team, taking care of each Schwab, Okinawa. He is vice members, President president. Navy Reserve in November. other. You aren’t worried slated to augment Combat George W. Bush asked if “Fathers usually inspire “After my commission whether he has insurance Logistics Battalion 4, 3rd there was anything he their sons, I was inspired I got a card from my son, or about hospital politics,” Marine Logistics Group, could do to soothe the loss by both of my sons,” he it said ‘welcome to the he said. on their upcoming deploy- of their son, 1st Lt. Nathan said. Though one can only fight,’” Krissoff said with Krissoff, in shape and ment to Iraq. Krissoff. imagine the kind of reac- a smile. “He certainly has upbeat for a man in his “I didn’t want to work in Nathan died in Iraq tions he got for aspiring come around.” early 60’s, said he liked another brick building, I from injuries suffered to serve at his age. Krissoff Now, Lt. Cmdr. Krissoff the idea of working out of wanted to deploy,” Kris- after a roadside bomb ex- said he was determined. said he enjoys practicing a tent. soff said, explaining his ploded December 2006. Even Austin was skeptical medicine in the military He is currently en- desired role in green-side “Yes Mr. President,” at first, he said. and prefers it to his civil- rolled in the pre-deploy- medicine. “I wanted to do Krissoff replied. “I want He closed his orthopedic ian practice. ment training program at operational medicine; to be to join the Navy Medical practice in Truckee that “In military medicine 4th Marines Regimental a surgeon of Marines.” Duck, Duck, Goose, is that your favorite animal? Marines teach local elementary school students English Lance Cpl. Stefanie C. Pupkiewicz It is important for children to After assembling a calendar of to it,” said Daiki, a sixth-grade okinawa marine staff start learning English at an early sorts on the chalkboard about the student. age because it is more difficult current conditions, the students Tsubasa, another sixth-grade he English activities room the older they get, said Marilyn formed circles around the Marines student, described himself and his on the third floor of Chatan Scherr, the English teacher at to begin the game that was the fellow students as lucky to have TElementary School wit- Chatan Elementary School. By main event of the lesson. the Marines come visit. nessed the chaos and fun of Ma- college, the students are nearly The students passed a ball At the close of the last class, all rines and sixth-grade Okinawans fluent, she added. around the circle while music of the students rushed out of the participating in a conglomeration For that morning at least, the played. Once the music stopped classroom to get lunch except for of the hot potato game and a lan- Marines did not go by rank and the student holding the ball was one girl. She stood by patiently guage lesson, Jan. 22. surname. They introduced them- asked a question by the Marine in with the principal, Tsukie Yonaha, This game is part of the English selves by their first names to each the center of the circle the student awaiting the Marines as they Language Teaching Program. The of the three sixth-grade classes. had to reply in English. When they departed. program takes service members After the introductions, the successfully answered the ques- She approached the group qui- into local schools so they can help Marines were asked questions by tion, the students went to see their etly, not making eye-contact. The teach students English. the students. Some of the ques- teacher who gave them a sticker principal told the Marines the girl Service members typically tions were asked in Japanese but for their achievement. Once all of wanted them to know how much travel to schools in the local area many were asked in English. The the stickers were passed out, the she appreciated the Marines com- several times a month. Each ses- students, for the most part, wanted Marines rotated to the next circle. ing to her class and how much fun sion the volunteers participate to know the Marines’ height, age, “Are you ready?” Scherr asked she had. in is different, said Hiroko To- occupation and hometown. the students as they settled back “Thank you very much,” she mimura, the community relations The Marines held up pictures into the circles. said quietly before bowing and specialist of Camp Foster. The with words that featured emo- “Yes, I am,” was the exuberant running out of the room. volunteers visit different schools, tions, seasons, days of the week, response from the students and For more information on vol- different grades and participate in months of the year, dates and Marines as the music began again. unteering contact Tomimura at different activities. weather conditions. “We are always looking forward 645-7766. okinawa marine | MARKETPLACE | january 30, 2009 11 in theaters single marine program events SATURDAY | Cherry blossom festival jan. 30 – Feb. 5 • For information about the trip or to sign up, contact the SMP office. Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a complete listing, visit http://www.aafes.com. FEB. 6 | SOUTHERN CAMPS DISCOVER GOLF • For more information and to sign up, contact the SMP office.

Foster Kadena FEB. 7 | OKINAWA WORLD 645-3465 634-1869 • The deadline to sign up is Wednesday For more information or to sign up contact the SMP office. today Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), 6 Today Twilight (PG13), 6 p.m.; The p.m.; The Curious Case of Benjamin Boy in the Striped Pajamas (PG13), For more information or Button (PG13), 9 p.m. 9:30 p.m. FEB. 8 | HANSEN BOWLING TOURNAMENT to sign up, contact the • Contact Cpl. Jeannene Burns at 623-4771/5357 or jeannene. saturday Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), Saturday Bride Wars (PG), Noon Single Marine Program 12 and 3 p.m.; Transporter 3 (PG13), 6 and 3 p.m.; The Boy in the Striped [email protected] to sign up. p.m.; Twilight (PG13), 9 p.m. Pajamas (PG13), 6 p.m., Sex Drive (R), Office at 645-3681. 9 p.m. SUNDAY Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), FEB. 20 | NORTHERN CAMPS DISCOVER GOLF 1 p.m.; Delgo (PG), 4 p.m.; Paul Blart: sunday Bride Wars (PG), 1 p.m.; The Mall Cop (PG), 7 p.m. Boy in Striped Pajamas (PG13), 4 p.m.; • For more information and to sign up Wednesday, contact the SMP Notorious (R), 7 p.m. office. monday Twilight (PG13), 7 p.m. All bus pick-up points monday Bride Wars (PG), 7 p.m. tuesday The Boy in the Striped will be at Semper Fit MARCH 7 | WHALE WATCHING TRIP Pajamas (PG13), 7 p.m. Tuesday Notorious (R) 7 p.m. gyms or the Foster • The deadline to sign up is Feb. 6. The price for the trip is 3,600 wednesday Paul Blart: Mall Cop Wednesday Notorious (R) 7 p.m. Fieldhouse. Yen and the bus cost $10. For more information or to sign up, (PG), 7 p.m. Thursday The Boy in Striped Paja- contact the SMP office. thursday Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), mas (PG13), 7 p.m. 7 p.m. chapel schedule Futenma courtney 636-3890 622-9616 Camp Foster | 645-7486/7487 Kadena Air Base | 634-1288 • Catholic: Mon., Wed., Fri.,11:45 a.m.; • Catholic: Sun., 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 3; today Closed Today Closed Sat., 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. Sun., 11:30 a.m., Reconciliation, Chapel 3; Saturday Closed Saturday Closed • Christian Science: Sun., 11 a.m., Bldg. 442 Sun., 12:30 p.m., Mass, Chapel 3; • Eastern Orthodox: Sun., 9:30 a.m. Sun., 5 p.m., Mass, Chapel 2; sunday Closed sunday Closed • Gospel: Sun., 11:30 a.m. Daily Mass, Mon.-Fri., noon, Chapel 2 monday Closed monday Closed • Hindu: Sat., 3:30 p.m. • Protestant: Sun., 10:30 a.m., Contemporary. tuesday Closed tuesday Closed • Jewish: Fri., Traditional, 6 p.m.; Kadena High School; Informal: Fri., 6:30 p.m. Sun., 8:30 a.m., Inspirational, Chapel 2; wednesday Closed wednesday Closed • Muslim: Fri., Prayer, 12:45 p.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m., Traditional, Chapel 2; thursday Closed thursday Closed • Protestant: Sun., 8:30 a.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m., Gospel, Chapel 3; • Seventh Day Adventist: Sat., 10 a.m. Sunday School, 8:45 a.m., Bldg. 856 hansen • Wiccan/Pagan Fri., 7 p.m., Bldg. 856; Kinser Camp Schwab | 625-2644/2866 Sat., 6:30 p.m., Bldg. 856 623-4564 637-2177 • Catholic: Sun., 5:30 p.m. • Protestant: Sun., 11:30 a.m. Camp Hansen | 622-9350 today Gran Torino (R). 6 and 9 p.m. TODAY Closed • Catholic: Sun., 10 a.m., E. Chapel Camp Courtney | 622-9350 • Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m., W. Chapel Saturday Gran Torino (R). 6 and saturday Closed 9 p.m. • Catholic: Sun., 8 and 11:15 a.m.; sunday The Boy in the Striped SUNDAY Closed Mon.-Fri., 11:45 a.m.. Camp Lester | 643-7248 Pajamas (PG13), 2 p.m.; Saw V (R), monday Closed • Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. • Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m., Lester Chapel 5:30 p.m. • Protestant: Sun., 9 a.m., Hospital Chapel monday Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), tuesday Closed Camp Kinser | 637-1148 Sun., 10 a.m., Lester Chapel 7 p.m. Wednesday Closed • Catholic: Sun., 11 a.m. tuesday Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), • Gospel: Sun., 8 a.m. CAMP SHIELDS | 632-4192 7 p.m. thursday Closed • Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. • Protestant: Sun., 6 p.m. WEDNEsday Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG), 7 p.m. MCAS Futenma | 636-3058 Camp McTureous | 622-7537 thursday Bride Wars (PG), 7 p.m. • Catholic: Sun., noon • Gospel: Sun., 12:30 p.m. • Contemporary: Fri., 7 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m. • Lutheran: Sun., 9:30 a.m. Schwab uso • High school senior service: Sat. 6 p.m. • Protestant Lethurgical: Sun., 6:30 p.m. 625-2333 movie nights

today Notorious (R), 7 p.m The USO hosts movie nights at the locations below. Saturday Punisher: War Zone (R), classified ads 5 p.m. For schedules and start times, call: sunday Transporter 3 (PG13), 5 p.m. Camp Schwab 625-3834 AUTOMOBILES MISCELLANEOUS monday-Thursday Closed mcas futenma 636-2113 ‘94 MARK II ’01 Mitsubishi ’99 Nissan — Jeep, Fisher-Price Power Wheels, 12- Camp Hansen 623-5011 GrANDE dion cube volt, seats 2, good condition, $75 Jci Jan. ‘10, jci Nov. ‘10, jci Feb. ‘10, (080) 1385-6995 Kadena air base 632-8781 $2,300 obo, $6,000 OBO, $3,000 OBO, — Wet Suit, Ironman VO2 Stealth, full (090) 6859-9719 (080) 3369-5345 (080)2723-7803 body, triathlon, size ML, fits man 6’, 180 lbs. $150 Ads appearing in the Okinawa Marine are a free ser- (080)1385-6995 vice to active duty military and their dependents, DoD employees and retirees. Ads are restricted to personal property or service of incidental exchange. Ads are run on a space-available basis. The deadline for ads is Classified Ads noon Fridays. The Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit ads to fit available space. Please include your Sell your unwanted name and the phone number you wish published. The Okinawa Marine makes every effort to ensure accuracy personal items with an but assumes no responsibility for services offered in ads. Submit ads by fax to 645-3803, or send an e-mail OkiMar classified ad. to [email protected]. 12 okinawa marine | SPORTS | january 30, 2009 Marines, locals tackle Habu trail for fun run Lance Cpl. Antwain J. Graham while trying to catch his okinawa marine staff breath. Tsunoda Hisaei came in MARINE CORPS AIR STA- shortly after Misner with a TION FUTENMA — Status finishing time of 20:56.2, tak- of Forces Agreement person- ing second place overall in nel and locals got pumped the 3.5 mile division. Short of up to attack the hills of the breath, Hisaei simply gave a Habu trail during the Open thumbs-up implying he was Fun Run here Sunday. satisfied with his time. The annual event began Edie Ali took first place in 2006 and offers service overall for females in the 3.5 members a chance to par- mile division with a time of ticipate in friendly athletic 28:55:4. competition with other ser- Joseph Galvin came in vice members and interact first place overall in the 6.5 with participants from the mile division, completing local community, said Jor- the run with a final time of dan Alexander, the event 34:35:7. coordinator. Galvin, who is a regular Participants had the op- competitive runner, said tion of running either a 3.5 he never boasts about win- mile or 6.5 mile distance on ning. the trail. “I just always put forth my Jason Misner took first best effort and push myself place overall in the 3.5 mile to get to the finish line,” he division competition, cross- said. Jason Misner charged up the hill on his way to the finish line at the annual Open Fun Run, ing the finish line in 19 min- Yuichi Ishii finished be- Sunday. Misner took 1st place overall in the 3.5 mile competitors division. Photo by Lance Cpl. Antwain J. Graham utes and 45 seconds. hind Galvin with a time of Misner said that unlike 37:51:5, letting out a warrior the next [competition],” Ishii tracted competitors young healthy and feeling fit. most of the long-distance cry as he crossed the finish said. and old. Local national, Trophies were awarded runs he competes in, this one line. Molly Banta took first Hudeo Hisei, 72, said that after all the runners crossed was short and sweet. “I like running here in place overall for females in even though he finished last the finish line. “I still gave it my all and these competitions because it the 6.5 mile division, finish- he was very excited about Semper Fit athletics is got a good challenge with helps me better my running ing the race in 47:57:9. competing in the run. He scheduled to host its next those hills,” he said smiling, technique so I am ready for The Open Fun Run at- said that running keeps him run in May. Trojans, Bears prove mettle to opposition in finals

Lance Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin the Oruku Trojans as they fought rival in fierceness, to the Trojans with a critical three-point shot, okinawa marine staff to defend their title during the versus Panthers game, as they making the score to 45-44. championship game. battled into overtime. The game was up for grabs, but CAMP FOSTER — Competition The Kadena Panthers led the The Bears dominated the first the Bears put it away with a layup was intense as Kubasaki, Kadena first half 31-22, but the Trojans period while Nishihara struggled with less than a minute remaining and six of the best Okinawan high would not be denied and came with fouls. in the game. school male and female basketball back from a nine-point deficit to The Bears stretched their lead to They held the lead to win the teams battled it out at the 3rd An- lead by five. ten in the second quarter, ending game. nual Okinawa-American Shootout With good man-to-man defense the first half 31-21. “We lost the last tournament Tournament at the Camp Foster and aggressive fast break to the In the second half, Nishihara and I wanted to use this one to Field house Jan. 23. basket, the Trojans beat the Pan- players stepped up their game, make the team better mentally. I The three-day tournament was thers 72-61. tightened up on man-to-man de- changed some of the techniques held to promote friendship be- “We enjoyed this year’s tourna- fense and cut the Bears’ 10 point of how the team plays so I could tween Okinawan and American ment very much,” said Munenori lead to three. see how they reacted because the high school students, but it be- Kayo, coach for the Trojans. “We Nishihara was on fire in the majority of my players are fresh- came a battleground as the top were 8th place last year, but this fourth period as they tied the man,” said Kengo Yaka, coach for teams of the tournament faced off year we played hard defense and score at 42, sending the game into the Bears “I was very worried dur- against each other for the champi- a faster offense.” overtime. ing overtime because I had a set onship Sunday. The female’s championship Nishihara took possession of the play (in overtime) that I wanted Kadena High School’s male match between Nishihara High ball first and was quick to score. to execute, but instead they went team proved to be a challenge for School and the Naha Bears would But the Bears regained the lead straight for the basket.”

Commanding General Maj. Gen. Mary Ann Krusa-Dossin okinawa marine newspaper H&S Battalion MCB PAO Unit 35002 FPO AP 96373-5002 public affairs Director Lt. Col. Douglas M. Powell The Okinawa Marine is published by Marine Corps Community the U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler or Marine Central Bureau Services under exclusive written contract with Marine Corps Base Camp Corps Community Services of the products and services advertised. Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available Camp Foster The editorial content of this newspaper is edited and approved for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, Press chief Master Sgt. Mark E. Bradley DSN 645-7422 by the Consolidated Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Base Camp gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political Smedley D. Butler. affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser northern Bureau military services stationed overseas, at sea and their families. Its contents is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that editor Staff Sgt. Leo A. Salinas Camp Hansen do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, source until the violation is corrected. the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine Corps and do not imply All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are “official U.S. Marine DSN 623-4054 endorsement thereof. Corps photos.” For more information, e-mail us at okinawamarine.mcbb. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of [email protected] or write to us at Public Affairs Office, H&S BN MCB PAO, supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, Unit 35002, FPO AP 96373-5002. DESIGN editor Lance Cpl. Stefanie Pupkiewicz