iii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

june 6, 2008 www.okinawa.usmc.mil

STRIKE UP THE SUMMER III Marine Expeditionary Force Band Director Chief Warrant Officer 2 Forest Q. Brown conducts his Marines May 31 during the Summer Concert at the Okinawa Convention Center. The annual community event included performances from local artists as well as the III MEF Band. SEE STORY ON PAGE 6. Photo by Sgt. Christine M. Wilcox Innovative program Wounded Warrior Battalion employs civilians to fill expands to the Western Pacific Lance Cpl. Joseph A. Cabrera Marine Corps Bases Japan, West, located at Pendleton. deployment deficiency okinawa marine staff during the brief. “The pro- The battalions house the gram started as a great idea, barracks where injured Ma- Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn CAMP COURTNEY — Cur- as the right thing to do, and it rines and sailors receive okinawa marine staff rently, Marines and sailors has really built up steam over assistance as they embark on Okinawa who are referred the last few years.” down the road to recovery, CAMP FOSTER — Problem: 441 pieces of equipment, to the Wounded Warrior Bat- The Wounded Warrior said Johnson. including bulldozers, road scrapers and light, medium talion are required to travel Regiment began to take shape Though no solid plans and heavy trucks, need to be maintained or repaired, to Camp Pendleton, Calif. to in 2006 when Commandant have been made to date, the and no one is here to do it. receive assistance. of the Marine Corps Gen. brief covered the feasibility Marine Wing Support Group 17 knew this would The intent to extend the James T. Conway, presented of establishing such a facility happen when 98 percent of Marine Wing Support battalion’s reach to the West- his guidelines for the pro- on Okinawa. The barracks Squadron 172 deployed in support of Operation Iraqi ern Pacific was the topic of a gram, according to Lt. Col. would remain part of the Freedom in March. brief at the Camp Courtney Charles H. Johnson, com- Wounded Warrior Battalion- Solution: MWSG-17 officials implement the Over- Theater, May 30. manding officer of Wounded West. flow Maintenance Program employing a team of civil- The pu r pose of t he Warrior Battalion-West in The program’s mission ian contractors, from Marine Corps Logistics Com- Wounded Warrior program Camp Pendleton. The regi- is to “provide and facilitate mand, Barstow, Calif., with the mission of maintaining is to ensure Marines and sail- ment was activated March assistance to wounded, in- the equipment left here. ors receive the treatment and 2007, and consists of two jured and ill Marines; sailors This is the first implementation of this type of pro- support they deserve, said Lt. battalions, Wounded War- attached to, or in support gram by any unit in III Marine Expeditionary Force, Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, com- rior Battalion-East, located of, Marine units and their according to Chief Warrant Officer 5 James A. Varner, manding general of III Ma- at Camp Lejeune, N.C., and family members throughout see OVERFLOW pg  rine Expeditionary Force and Wounded Warrior Battalion- see WARRIOR pg 

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Ins PG. 9 PG. 10  okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | june 6, 2008 The deadliest weapon Corps Championships allows Marines to get back to their roots as riflemen

Capt. Brad Botanes onships held in April or May each Matches. Unfortunately, Zins said or pistol once a year, the Division year at Stone Bay, Marine Corps he didn’t think that there were Matches gives Marines an oppor- seventeen man team rep- Base, Camp Lejeune. The Eastern even 300 shooters total in all four tunity to improve their marksman- resenting Marines from Division Match and the Marine matches last year. ship skills. Each Division Match Athe Far East embarked on a Corps Championships were hosted Zins is the only man or Marine enables a Marine to re-qualify in journey to Quantico, Va. recently to at Weapons Training Bn., MCB with eight national titles. Pistol both weapons, trains and certifies compete in the 2008 Marine Corps Quantico, Va. this year due to the shooting legends Harry Reeves, them as combat marksmanship Championships. But this event has construction at Stone Bay. Huelet Benner, and Bill Blanken- coaches and gives them an oppor- been overshadowed by recreational The championship match dif- ship each had six, while his near- tunity to represent their division at sporting events such as soccer, fers from the Division Matches est active competitor, Steve Reiter, the Marine Corps Championships. flag football and even racquet- in several ways. The weapons has five. How did this year’s Far East ball. In fact if you ask any Marine used in the championship match He added that shooting is a skill, Team do? stationed on Okinawa what the are the National Match M-16 which Marines must continually The Far East Team won the Marine Corps Championships are, rifle and National Match M-1911 work on, and that skill has gone by Fleet Marine Force Combat Infan- the most likely response would be, pistol. Competitors at the cham- the wayside. He said that the word try Trophy. The Infantry Trophy ‘What sport are you talking about?’ pionships receive eighteen days needs to get out, so Marines can get Team match consists of six shoot- Once upon a time, any Marine of training focused on the funda- back to their roots as riflemen. ing members, a team captain and could tell you about the Marine mentals of marksmanship taught One of the major problems with team coach, which simulates a rifle Corps Championships. The pin- by Marines from the Marine trying to get Marines back into squad in a combat situation. The nacle of the Marine Corps Marks- Corps Shooting Team. that mind set is their commands ITT match has been fired in the na- manship Program has lost its The Marines receive live-fire don’t feel that they can lose their tional matches since before World appeal among the new generation practice with both weapons every Marines for a one month train- War II and was fired in the Marine of Marines. This change came training day and exchange ideas ing evolution during the Division Corps matches from 1960 to 1967. about because of such things as with Marines from other divisions Matches. Due to a low turnout at this year’s high operational commitments, the to further refine their skills. As a What they’re not looking at, championship match, participation Global War on Terrorism and unit result, these Marines return with however, is that their Marines will in the ITT match was changed to commanders’ reluctance to send improved marksmanship, which return with the knowledge they four shooting members. The Far Marines to such a time consuming they can pass on to fellow Marines. gained from participating in the East Team that won the Combat training evolution. matches could pass that knowledge Infantry Trophy were: shooting The Marine Corps Rifle and Every Marine a Rifleman to other Marines. members, Capt. Chris Eichner, Pistol Championship, hosted by the Rifle and pistol re-qualifica- Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark W. commanding officer of Training But Marines just aren’t participat- tion is mandatory for all Marines Clark, Staff Sgt. Nicholas Long, and Command, Quantico, Va., is the ing in Division Matches like they annually and it affects promo- Lance Cpl. Brandon Morris; team culmination of the four Division used to. tions and retention. For lance captain, Cpl. David Frizzell; and Matches conducted throughout the According to Gunnery Sgt. corporals and corporals, the team coach, Master Gunnery Sgt. Marine Corps each year as part of Brian H. Zins, the former staff higher their rifle score, the more Raymond B. Brown. the Competition-in-Arms Program. noncommissioned officer in charge points they receive toward a pro- Botanes is the assistant disburs- Division competitors finishing in of the pistol team, not long ago, motion to the next rank. ing officer of Combat Logistics the top 10 percent move on to com- at least 300 shooters would par- Since the majority of Marines Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics pete in the Marine Corps Champi- ticipate in each of the Division only get to practice with the rifle Group.

fact check sunglasses in uniform

Q: What kinds of sunglasses may I wear in uniform?

Sunglasses may be worn on leave, liberty and in uniform, but not in formation with troops, unless

Created by Gunnery Sgt. Charles Wolf Charles Created by Gunnery Sgt. A: the need to wear sunglasses has been certified by medical authorities. Eyeglasses or sunglasses must also be conservative in appearance; eccentric or conspicuous eyepieces are prohibited. More information may be found in paragraph 1004 of Marine Corps Order P1020.34G, empertoons Marine Corps Uniform Regulations. S

to submit an opinion or editorial, e-mail us at [email protected] okinawa marine | NEWS | june 6, 2008  31st MEU Marines, sailors fast rope at sea

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks 31st marine expeditionary unit

ABOARD USS ESSEX, Andaman Sea — Ma- rines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expe- ditionary Unit, currently forward-deployed aboard USS Essex (LHD 2), conducted static fast-rope training in the Andaman Sea May 18 in order to familiarize personnel with the pro- cesses and techniques involved with helicopter rope suspension training. E Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, currently serving as the MEU’s battalion landing team, hosted the training and made it available to any Marine or sailor aboard ship. For the training, the service members donned flak jackets and Kevlar helmets and boarded a stationary CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter that had been positioned with the tail ramp hanging over the edge of the flight deck above the ship’s elevator. After a HRST master instructed and inspected each participant, they jumped out of the back of the helicopter and slid down the rope to an elevator platform. On the way down, each participant executed a lockout procedure in order to demonstrate how to manage the rope in case of an emergency. For the Marines hosting the event, this was a key part of the training. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Darren Bernal, the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense officer “Marines could be fast roping onto a struc- of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, ture and the wind could batter the helicopter prepares to fast rope out of a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter May 18 during a training exercise aboard the away from the landing zone,” said 2nd Lt. Jerome forward deployed USS Essex (LHD 2). Photo by Lance Cpl. Audrey M. Graham Borden, platoon commander, 3rd platoon, E Co. “The lockout procedure would allow the Marine that is very important and can be a useful “I had a lot of fun training today,” said Lance to stay on the rope with little struggle until the skill,” he said. Cpl. Heedok Choe, a radio operator with Combat bird was in a safe position.” Fast-roping techniques and rappelling Logistics Battalion 31. “It was a really good oppor- Many of the Marines and sailors who par- are both very versatile helicopter insertion tunity to be able to conduct this type of training. ticipated wouldn’t normally conduct fast-rope maneuvers which are practical for fast inser- I haven’t had a chance to do anything like this training in their job field, but with a high op- tions of troops, rescue missions and supply before, so I’m glad that the training took place.” erational tempo, the probability of conducting operations into urban areas, jungles, ships The 31st MEU, along with the Essex Am- helicopter-borne missions with the MEU seems and amphibious areas, said Borden. phibious Ready Group, is currently off the more likely, said Borden. The participants said the chance to learn a coast of Burma ready to support potential “The training was a good way for the Ma- new skill excited them and gave them a chance humanitarian assistance operations in the rines and sailors to cross-train on a procedure to break up the monotony of ship life. wake of Cyclone Nargis. Jungle Warfare Training Center hosts survey for foreign militaries

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein areas and conducted demonstra- okinawa marine staff tions at each location to give them an idea of what the facility has CAMP GONSALVES — Several to offer, said Staff Sgt. Benjamin foreign liaison officers attached to Luna, the chief instructor with the Marine Corps Combat Devel- JWTC. opment Command in Quantico, “We showed them the tougher Va., visited the Jungle Warfare obstacles,” Luna said. “The things Training Center for a site survey commanders might want to put May 21. their personnel through.” The liaisons, representing The Marines answered ques- Germany, Israel, Japan and Neth- tions from their guests ranging in erlands, toured the training area topics from course curriculums to gain firsthand insight of how on jungle survival skills to the Marines train in jungle environ- fact the courses are not gender ments and to build relations with specific and all Marines partici- the III Marines Expeditionary Staff Sgt. Benjamin Luna, the Jungle Warfare Training Center’s chief instructor, pate in the same events. Force for possible future jungle answers foreign liaisons’ questions May 21 during the survey. The liaisons are “It was a very good presenta- currently attached to the Marine Corps Combat Development Command in training sessions, according to tion,” said German Army Sgt. Quantico, Va. Photo by Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein Maj. Mark A. Givens, a command Maj. Joerg Ehret, a liaison with liaison officer with MCCDC. Marine officials here said the first have to be approved by the the German Army Liaison Staff “The visit served as a stepping visit was exploratory in nature, government of Japan. 11, MCCDC. “We look forward stone toward those long term as any arrangements for non-U.S. The JWTC staff showed the li- to trying to come out and train goals,” Givens said. personnel to use the facility will aisons the facility’s main training here.”  okinawa marine | NEWS | june 6, 2008

RANGE HIGH SCORES CAB receives new commanding officer May 26-30 Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero In February 2003, he was okinawa marine staff assigned to 4th Assault Am- phibian Bn. and served as the CAMP SCHWAB — Lt. Col. Michael L. Carter inspector-instructor. Yaros- KD passed command of Combat Assault Battalion, 3rd laski trained and mobilized No rifle range detail for week --- Marine Division, to Lt. Col. Daniel L. Yaroslaski his reserve unit for Operation during a change of command ceremony on Camp Iraqi Freedom. He was as- PD Schwab June 3. signed as the operations of- No pistol range detail for week --- Carter will next attend the Top Level School at ficer for 4th Assault Amphib- Yaroslaski the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Va. ian Bn. during the battalion’s Yaroslaski assumes command of CAB after pre-deployment training. In briefs serving as the lead planner for the III Marine Kuwait, he became a tactical Expeditionary Force Joint Task Force. movement control officer for 2008 SUMMER HIRE PROGRAM Yaroslaski enlisted in the United States Marine 1st MarDiv. The 2008 Marine Corps Summer Hire Corps Reserve in 1988. Upon completion of recruit Upon return from Iraq in Program runs June 23 through Aug. 15 for stu- training he was assigned as an anti-tank assault 2006, Yaroslaski graduated dents in Okinawa middle and high schools and man with 2nd Bn., 23rd Marine Regiment, in Port with honors from the Marine May 27 through Aug. 15 for college students. Hueneme, Calif. Corps Command and Staff The program is open to DoD dependents ages He attended Loyola Marymount University and College and received orders Carter 14-23. participated in the Navy Reserve Officers Train- to III MEF, where he served as Students can pick up applications at the Job ing Corps program at the University of California, operations leader, Future Operations Division. Information Center in Building 495 on Camp Los Angeles. He received his commission in 1992 Yaroslaski’s decorations include the Defense Foster. For more information, call 645-5432. after he graduated. Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service In 1998, he transferred to 1st MarDiv and Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (third award), 4th MLG Reserve positions assumed command of B Co., 3rd Assault Am- Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achieve- 4th Marine Logistics Group is seeking ap- plicants for Marine Corps Reserve officer and phibian Bn. ment Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. enlisted leadership positions. For more informa- tion contact Col. Ray Johnson at ray.johnson@ usmc.mil, or Gunnery Sgt. Oretha Whiteside WARRIOR from pg 1 receiving proper care and sup- gram cannot provide, said at [email protected]. the phases of recovery,” said port so they can transition back Johnson. Johnson. to their units, he added. “The program has made an VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Marines and sailors are re- For Marines or sailors med- awesome amount of progress Lester Chapel Catholic and Protestant com- ferred to the program based on ically discharged from the in the last 10 months,” said munities will host a free Vacation Bible School the nature and severity of their military, the program is de- Lt. Col. Greg Martin, who is on Camp Lester June 23-27 in the evenings. medical issues, said Johnson. signed to help ease their tran- scheduled to take command Register online at http://toolkit.thevbsplace. The program not only applies sition to civilian occupations, of the Wounded Warrior Bat- org/UsnhLesterChapel by June 18. Volunteers are also needed. To volunteer, e-mail jennifer- to service members wounded in said Johnson. Marines and talion - West June 25. [email protected]. combat, but also those who are sailors medically discharged Martin said once he as- injured off duty, said Johnson. may also receive assistance to sumes command he intends Auditions for musical Post traumatic stress syn- begin college classes, intern- to continue the work started The Pacific Okinawa Players will hold audi- drome and other mental health ships and SAT testing. by his predecessors as the tions for Ragtime the Musical at the Camp Foster issues account for approximate- The program can provide program reaches out to the Performing Arts Center June 10 and 12 at 7 p.m. ly 50 percent of the program’s information and referrals to Western Pacific. Auditions are for those 15 and older. participants receiving assis- wounded warriors and their “We have the faith and trust Children from 10 to 14 must register for an tance, according to Johnson. family members for organiza- of our Marines to be there as a audition June 9 at 7 p.m. This multi-cultural Patient treatment and progress tions providing philanthropic safety net to make sure that no show involves characters of different ethnic is tracked through the program, services and support which one slips through the cracks,” origins. For more details, http://www.pops- okinawa.org. ensuring service members are the Wounded Warriors pro- said Zilmer. flapjack fridays The United Service Organizations hosts a “Flapjack Fridays” pancake breakfast each MWSG-17 posts oncoming sergeant major at ceremony Friday at the Marine Corps Air Station Futenma USO from 6-9 a.m., the Camp Hansen USO from Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn deployed to the Persian Gulf 6:30-9 a.m. and at the Camp Schwab USO from okinawa marine staff for Desert Shield and Desert 7-9 a.m. For more information, call 645-2957. Storm. CAMP FOSTER — Sgt. Maj. Darryl G. Mills In September 1992, Lewis RESERVE ANGLICO opportunity passed duties as sergeant major of Marine Wing For transitioning active duty and reserve returned to Parris Island for Marine officers, 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Support Group 17 to Sgt. Maj. Warren C. Lewis Drill Instructor School. After Company, Marine Forces Reserve, West Palm during a post and relief ceremony at the Camp graduating, he reported to C Beach, Fla. has opportunities for company grade Foster Parade Field June 3. Company, 1st Recruit Train- Mills is moving to 1st Marine Logistics Group, ing Battalion, where he rose to officers in any MOS to serve as artillery officers Lewis and joint tactical air controllers. Retraining is Camp Pendleton, Calif. series chief drill instructor. available. Lewis came to MWSG-17 after serving as In February 2004, Lewis Air officer and forward air controller bil- sergeant major of Combat Logistics Battalion 4, reported to 2nd Battalion, lets are also available for both company and Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd MLG. 10th Marines, 2nd MarDiv. junior field-grade officers who currently hold Lewis went to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Later that year, he deployed to a 75XX MOS. Parris Island, S.C., for recruit training Septem- Operation Iraqi Freedom. Contact Staff Sgt. Lanese by e-mail at ray- ber 9, 1978 and became a counter mortar radar [email protected]. Lewis’ personal decora- operator. tions include the Navy and In 1983, Lewis deployed to Beirut, Lebanon, Marine Corps Commenda- TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to with Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 8th [email protected], or fax your tion Medal (second award), Mills request to 645-3803. The deadline for submitting Marines, 24th Marine Amphibious Unit. the Navy and Marine Corps a brief is noon every Friday. The Okinawa Marine In 1990, he became the target processing Achievement Medal and the Combat Action Rib- reserves the right to edit all submitted material. chief for Radar Platoon aboard USS Ranger and bon with Gold Star. okinawa marine | NEWS | june 6, 2008 

The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing units and service members recognized by the Marine Corps Aviation Association for achievements in Marine aviation will compete at the national level the national level against other MAW winners in the categories listed below. Photo by Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero Aviation association honors 1st MAW Marines

Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero okinawa marine staff mcaa JOE FOSS SQUADRON award winners CAMP FOSTER — Units and individual service members INDIVIDUAL AWARDS • Aviation Supply Marine of the Year from 1st Marine Aircraft Gunnery Sgt. Scott P. Holloway, MALS-36, MAG-36 Wing were recognized for • Aviation Maintenance Marine of the Year Gunnery Sgt. Derrick M. Bussell, Marine Heavy Helicopter distinguished achievements • Exceptional Achievement Award Squadron 362, Marine Aircraft Group 24 in Marine aviation through- Cpl. Brandon R. Bergholz, HMM-262, MAG-36 out 2007 during the 3rd An- • Marine Aviation Ground Officer of the Year nual Marine Corps Aviation 1st Lt. Clint J. Burbach, MAG-36 UNIT AWARDS Association Joe Foss Squad- ron Awards Dinner May 29 • Marine Enlisted Aircrew of the Year • Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron of the Year at the Butler Officers’ Club. Sgt. Matthew R. Crooks, HMH-362, MAG-24 MALS-36, MAG-36 The Joe Foss Squadron • Marine Medium Helicopter/Tiltrotor Squadron of the Year is the local chapter of the • Noncommissioned Officer Leadership Award Sgt. Eric D. Grady, HMH-362, MAG-24 HMM-265, MAG-36 national level Marine Corps Aviation Association. • Avionics Marine of the Year • Aviation Command and Control Unit of the Year The awards were pre- Staff Sgt. Donald A. Woode Jr., HMH-362, MAG-24 MACS-4, MACG-18 sented by guest speakers Lt. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, • Aviation Command and Control Marine of the Year • Marine Aerial Refueler Squadron of the Year commanding general of III Staff Sgt. Brian K. Spencer, Marine Air Control Squadron 4, VMGR-152, MAG-36 Marine Expeditionary Force Marine Air Control Group 18 and Marine Corps Bases • Marine Wing Support Squadron of the Year MWSS-171, Marine Wing Support Group 17 Japan, and Lt. Gen. George J. • Marine Aviator of the Year Capt. William G. Heiken, HMH-362, MAG-24 Trautman III, deputy com- • Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron of the Year mandant for aviation. • Aviation Ordnance Marine of the Year HMH-362, MAG-24 After all the awards were Sgt. Brian D. Kolterman, HMH-362, MAG-24 presented, Trautman was • Marine Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year given an award by the Joe • Aviation Ground Marine of the Year VMFA-212, MAG-12 Foss Squadron for his service Sgt. Leeann B. Nelson, Marine Medium Helicopter to the MCAA. Squadron 265, MAG-36 • Commandant’s Aviation Trophy 1st MAW award winners HMH-362, MAG-24 will go on to compete at the • Aviation Command and Control Officer of the Year Capt. John N. Brogdon, Marine Wing Communication • Pete Ross Safety Award national level against win- Squadron 18, MACG-18 HMH-463, MAG-24 ners from the other Marine aircraft wings.

OVERFLOW from pg 1 with the unit. Most of these mechanics are new pass on our knowledge and experience to these the maintenance management officer with Marines directly out of school who arrived here Marines.” III MEF. after the unit departed for Iraq. The Marines said the experience is valuable The “professional artisans,” as Col. Ben “Our young Marines, working side by side for them as they rarely receive such focused Braden, the commanding officer of MWSG- with these professional artisans, are learning training on so many different types of gear. 17, refers to the civilian contractors, arrived faster than they would have probably learned “The schooling for mechanics is only three in Okinawa in March and will stay as late as in three or four years in the Marine Corps, just months long and you can’t get much experience August. because of the professionalism of these civilians in that short time,” said Cpl. Rob R. Reese, floor The effects of the program can be felt across and their expertise,” Braden said. chief for MWSS-172. “The civilians bring a the MEF, Braden said. All of the civilian contractors here as part of lifetime of experience, and (the training) is “It is not just about fixing the truck or fixing the Overflow Maintenance Program came on a more productive when you have guys like this the bulldozer, it’s about keeping us prepared and volunteer basis, according to John Tucker, the teaching the Marine Corps’ future.” ready for combat,” Braden said. foreman for the civilian contractors. Braden said he hopes other III MEF units Not only are the civilians here maintaining “We are glad that we are able and qualified will notice the success Group 17 is having the equipment for MWSS-172, they are making to come over here and do our best, as well as with the program and will follow in their a huge impact on the technical expertise of being able to be here and teach the young Ma- footsteps to fill maintenance gaps left by de- the MWSS-172 Marines who are not deployed rines,” Tucker said. “It is an honor to be able to ploying Marines or units.  okinawa marine | FEATURE | june 6, 2008

Enlisted conductor Staff Sgt. Deborah L. Hamner leads the band during the concert. Photo by Sgt. Christine M. Wilcox

SUMMERSONG

Sgt. Leah C. Morales sings May 31 during the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band’s 13th annual Summer Concert held at the Okinawa Convention Center. Morales is a singer and French horn player with the band. Photo by Sgt. Leon M. Branchaud III MEF Band, others perform thirteenth annual seasonal concert story by pfc. Jeffrey Cordero early 1,300 sets of eyes and ears demanded an encore,” she said. were fixed on the III Marine Band members were also swamped like Expeditionary Force Band at the rock stars by autograph seekers when they NOkinawa Convention Center in Ginowan entered the crowd after the performance. City during their 13th annual Summer For many band members, the concert Concert May 31. means more than just entertainment. The band hoped to promote a strong “The concert is a way to give back to community spririt by engaging the Oki- the community,” said Gunnery Sgt. Jaime nawan and military communities through R. Hamner, an instrument repair techni- music, said Cpl. Nina S. Goralski, a clari- cian with the band. “They really appreci- netist with the III MEF Band. ate the music. It shows we are learning The band performed a wide variety about their culture and community.” of music to include classical, folk and The annual concert is always a big traditional Okinawan. Pieces included hit with the community here and many Blue shades, El Camino Real and Basho- Okinawans attend every show, according Fu. The band also played an Okinawan to Masaaki Ishiki, a community relations favorite Tinsagu-nu hana, getting a little specialist with Marine Corps Base. help from the audience, who clapped in “The people want to come to the con- rhythm with the song. cert and once they do, they want to come The audience’s appreciation was very back every year,” Ishiki said. “People who evident after the show, Goralski said. know music well say the band is a gift to “The Okinawans loved it so much they the community.” okinawa marine | FEATURE | june 6, 2008 

Enlisted conductor Staff Sgt. Deborah L. Hamner leads the band during the concert. Photo by Sgt. Christine M. Wilcox

Sanshin instructor Byron Jones plays the intrument during the concert. Photo by Sgt. Christine M. Wilcox

The saxaphone section of the III MEF Band performs for the local community at the Okinawa Convention Center. The concert draws hundreds of military and civilian spectators each year. Photo by Sgt. Christine M. Wilcox  okinawa marine | FEATURE | june 6, 2008 Despite height, ‘he got game’ In a world of giants, one player overcomes challenges, eventually rising to the top of the Corps and perhaps becoming the best in the business along the way

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein okinawa marine staff

tanding 5 feet 10 inches tall, the kid from Newport, Maine, hardly projects an in- timidating presence when he steps on the Sbasketball court. But at 23 years old, Lance Cpl. Ryan McLel- lan, a maintenance management specialist with Marine Air Control Group 18, is among the best basketball players in the Marine Corps. As the starting point guard for the All-Ma- rine Basketball team, McLellan led the team in scoring, averaging more than 21 points a game, during the 2008 Armed Forces Basketball Championship tournament in Fort Indiantown Gap, Penn. He was subsequently picked to be the All- The shortest member on the US Department of Defense Men’s All-Tournament Basketball Team, Tournament Team and selected for the All- Lance Cpl. Ryan McLellan (middle) is a force to be reckoned with on the court. During the 2008 Armed Forces Team. McLellan represented Armed Forces Basketball Championship tournament, McLellan led the All-Marine Basketball team in the U.S. as the squad won gold during this scoring, averaging more than 21 points a game. Official DoD photo. year’s Conseil International du Sport Mili- taire Basketball Tournament in Texas by on the teams he played with. “Once I hit my dribble the ball, pass it, and hit a couple defeating military teams from seven other first growth spurt, I got a little more into it be- jump shots here and there. They made fun countries. It was the first tournament vic- cause I could do more.” of me the first few days, ‘Man Mac shows tory for the U.S. forces team in 20 years. He grew to about 5 feet 8 inches tall that up, and he can’t hit a jump shot.’ Luckily McLellan’s basketball success could be at- summer and continued to play throughout they knew that I could play, and they sent tributed to his seemingly endless passion for the high school, competing in national compe- me to camp anyway.” game and fighting spirit, which he attributes to titions. During his senior year at Nokomis The friendly banter he was accustomed his “strong Scottish bloodline.” Even now, just Regional High School, he once again played to was no different when he arrived at the talking about basketball brings a smile to his alongside his brother, Rodrigue, on the No- All-Marine camp to play for his spot on the face because it sparks memories of friends, fam- komis Warriors. squad. ily and overcoming adversity, he said. After high school, McLellan first planned to “They made fun of me at camp,” McLellan He remembers as a boy sitting alone on an attend Army boot camp on a buddy program said. “They said when I came walking in, they “uncomfortable barstool” in his family’s kitch- with Rodrigue, who is now a private first class thought I was in the wrong building.” en watching his favorite team, the Chicago in the Army. But McLellan changed his mind Trying his best to contain his laughter, Bulls, on a 17-inch television screen while the deciding instead to go the civilian route. McLellan recalled some comments made by rest of his family gathered in the living room But after a semester of college basketball players at the camp. “We saw Mac walk in to watch movies. and a short period of working construction and with his long-john shirt on thinking ‘he’s Basketball first became a major part of his playing in various men’s basketball leagues, he showing up to softball practice,’” McLellan life when he and his brother, Corey Rodrigue, decided again to join the military. This time, he said mimicking the voices of his teammates. started playing for the Wolves, a local 3rd-grade chose the Marine Corps. “I had a good laugh at that,” he said. team coached by his stepfather Jason Tardy. “It makes family Christmases a little more During the All-Marine Basketball Team “Even though Ryan was the best player in interesting,” he said. camp, the team traveled around competing in that league, he made it a point to pass it to ev- After boot camp and occupational training, games against military teams in Atlanta, Geor- eryone on the team when he clearly could have he arrived on Okinawa and started playing at gia and Washington D.C. With a better showing dominated the game on his own,” Tardy said. Camp Foster’s Gunners Fitness Center during in these games, McClellan earned his spot on “He quickly became a fan of the ‘no look pass.’” lunch and after work. the team. Tardy said as his step-son’s passion for the “I played about five to six times a week,” he The All-Marine Team finished third in the game grew, he practiced non-stop and constant- said. All-Armed Forces Tournament in Pennsylvania ly sought out the toughest games he could find The daily games helped him network with where McLellan was named to the All-Armed to improve his skills. other basketball enthusiasts and join teams to Forces Team. “He would spend hours in the basement us- compete in tournaments. McLellan said the players immediately ing the (support columns) as defenders, drib- One of the enthusiasts included Staff Sgt. formed strong bonds of friendship on and off bling, changing hands and bouncing the ball off Floyd Spears, a member of the 1st Marine Air- the court. Those same bonds helped the team the wall to catch it as if it were a pass,” Tardy craft Wing Basketball Team and former member take the Conseil International du Sport Mili- said. “He always had a ball in his hands, and of the All-Marine and All-Armed Forces Teams. taire Basketball Tournament going undefeated the wall took a beating.” “He gave me the start I needed to actually get against seven foreign military teams. Tardy boasts an undefeated record against to (All-Marine) camp,” he said. Currently, McLellan waits to compete in McLellan in one on one, but admits once the McLellan joined the 1st MAW Basketball the 45th Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers future Marine reached 7th grade, he stopped Team with the hopes of making the All-Marine Europe Basketball Tournament in Germany. playing him to protect his title. Basketball Team, he said. He got his shot; but He hits the courts to catch games during McLellan continued to play basketball what he considers a poor performance in front lunch and after work. But even now, he still throughout junior high, but it was the summer of All-Marine scouts during an island-wide re- deals with players unaware of his accom- before his 8th-grade year that he said he really gional tournament, nearly cost him his chance. plishments who pass him up for taller players. started taking the game seriously. “For the first three days, I couldn’t hit a But he takes it all in stride with a modest “I was really, really small growing up,” he jump shot,” he said. “Our team was loaded, laugh while warming the bench, waiting for a said, noting he was always the smallest player and I didn’t really have to do anything, just friendly face that knows he has game. okinawa marine | FEATURE | june 6, 2008  Combat engineer Marines prepare to set it off fire-team leader with A Co. Demolitions training “About three quarters of us satisfies annual haven’t done this since the school house. Some of the things we requirements, prepares did today we learned in school, but we also learned a lot of new participants for real things,” he added. world application The exercise was a lot about confidence, especially in the area Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero of breeching, according to 2nd Lt. okinawa marine staff Michael V. Butler, a platoon com- mander with A Co. ombat engineers with 9th “A majority of Marines out of Engineer Support Battal- school receive basic training, but ion, 3rd Marine Logistics not breaching training. We try CGroup, conducted demolition to focus on urban breaching [as training at Demolition Range 2 on well],” he said. Camp Hansen May 30. The training allowed the The training helped the combat Marines not only to learn, but to engineers meet annual demoli- feel prepared when tasked with tion training requirements, and carrying out a mission. provided a venue for advanced “The training is important demolition training as well. because if we face a situation The training covered the where we have to use this, we’ll proper preparation and detona- remember it because it is fresh in tion of several explosives, includ- our minds,” House said. ing trunk line, shape and linear The combat engineers also charges, as well as improvised trained in a larger than normal pipe bombs. It also included group. breaching doors with linear “It is a rare opportunity to charges and creating a network of get a company size unit to do an C-4 explosives. exercise like this, therefore it is “This is what combat engineers really important to get this train- do; they make sure that construc- ing done. We don’t get as much tion and demolition is done,” said field training and most Marines Gunnery Sgt. Conrad C. Bidal, haven’t done this since last year,” a platoon sergeant with A Com- said Butler. pany, 9th ESB. But above all, the main reason Combat engineers only receive for the training exercise cannot basic demolition training in the be overlooked, one Marine said. military occupational specialty “It is important for combat school, so this training gives the engineers to practice, so they will Marines a chance to familiarize be prepared when they deploy,” Combat engineers with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics themselves with other aspects, said Staff Sgt. Michael P. Baehr, a Group mold C-4 explosive onto a fence stake May 30 during demolition said Cpl. Richard C. House, a platoon sergeant with A Co. training on Camp Hansen’s Demolition Range 2. Photo by Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero Camp Hansen Brig trains service members to become prisoner escorts

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein During the course, students are taught Vocational Aptitude Battery. They also must okinawa marine staff how to properly handle prisoners and be mentally and emotionally stable with no conduct themselves during escorts. They physical or speech impediments and must hen a service member breaks the law practice applying physical restraints, such not be pending any early separation, dis- Wand finds himself trapped behind as hand and ankle cuffs, and using verbal charge or investigations. the iron bars and concrete walls of Camp commands to direct prisoners. They also re- Service members interested in enrolling Hansen’s brig, his or her unit suffers the view the different custody classifications of in the course should contact Sonia Luciano burden as well. prisoners. This is important because higher by e-mail at [email protected]. Units are required to produce a number levels of custody require more chasers and of specially certified prisoner escorts, called restraints, Chapman said. chasers, equal to their imprisoned Marines’ In the course, students also review sce- custody classifications. These Marines have narios on what to do if a prisoner tries to es- the responsibility of escorting prisoners out cape, is injured or has a medical emergency. of the brig for everything from paying taxes “If a chaser doesn’t know what he’s doing, to going to medical appointments. the prisoner could get hurt or could attempt “If someone is locked up and they don’t to escape,” said Cpl. Cody L. Pickett, the have a chaser, they’ll have to borrow some- duty brig supervisor. “You want to close out one from another unit or the brig will have all opportunities they have to escape.” to host an emergency class,” said Gunnery To qualify as a chaser, a Marine must Sgt. Theresa Chapman, the training chief have no non-judicial punishments or courts for the brig. martial during their current enlistment. To ensure units have chasers before a They must be at least 19 years old, an E-2 service member falls to the wayside, the or above, have served at least 6 months of The Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Brig on Camp Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Brig on active duty following recruit training and Hansen offers prisoner escort classes every Camp Hansen offers prisoner escort classes have a score higher than 100 in the general Thursday to train service members to become every Thursday, according to Chapman. technical portion of the Armed Services prisoner escorts. Photo by Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein 10 okinawa marine | FEATURE | june 6, 2008 Diving safety key to avoiding dangers of the deep

Lance Cpl. The rescue diver familiar with, he said. can deliver an extremely Bob Zimmerman, the Joseph A. Cabrera course teaches div- Although typically non- painful and deadly sting. Tsunami SCUBA course okinawa marine staff ers how to take care of aggressive, there are sev- The lionfish, also director. Major storms of- As temperatures rise, themselves and others, eral species of wildlife that known as the turkey or ten uncover old ordnance scuba divers flock to the he said. Completion of are poisonous and poten- scorpion fish, is striped underwater. sea to explore the waters the course also gives stu- tially deadly to humans. in color with spines that “This island is full of of Okinawa, often with- dents the added dive ex- Box Jellyfish common inject venom, Mares said. history, you can throw a out being fully aware of perience of going through in the summer months The sting can be extreme- rock and hit something the hidden dangers. the advanced course. are a prime example of ly painful, but is usually from World War II,” said Untrained divers risk Divers should also be a non-agressive animal not deadly to humans. Mike Morrison, a Tsuna- permanent injuries and familiar with hazardous that can injure or kill, Hazardous marine life mi SCUBA instructor. even death as a result of water conditions, contin- Freeland said. is typically easy to iden- If ordnance is found, critical days diving ued Freeland. Large waves, The tentacles of a jel- tify, Freeland said. the proper response is to riptides and currents are lyfish are covered with As a rule of thumb for mark the spot, leave the of summer with- out the common hazards. little sacks containing identifying dangerous area and contact the pro- proper knowledge. In addition, adhering poisonous stingers which creatures, “If it has bright vost marshal’s office, Free- Diving is a fun and to sea conditions, divers react on contact with a colors, is slow moving land said. The ordnance enjoyable sport if divers need to make judgment diver or swimmer. and not scared of you, is unstable and should not have received the proper calls to determine if con- Even dead jellyfish can then there is probably a be touched by divers. training and dive safely, ditions are safe, Mares be deadly, Mares said. good reason: It doesn’t Safe divers will plan said Jeff Mares, a Tsunami said. “If it takes you more Another non-aggres- have to be.” dives in locations that do SCUBA dive instructor. than 10 seconds to decide sive sea creature is the Divers should also not present inherent dan- Training teaches divers whether to get in the sea urchin, which resem- avoid feeding the wild- gers to the diver, Mares how to properly respond water, don’t get in.” bles a ball with spikes. life, feeding the creatures said, “Plan your dive, to situations that may oc- Not all threats are The poisonous spikes of the sea trains them dive your plan.” cur both underwater and visible on the surface, ac- can inject unsuspecting to react to humans as a To stay safe and enjoy on the surface, said Kevin cording to Freeland. victims with venom. source for food, and they the experience of diving Freeland, Tsunami SCU- In the waters sur- Okinawa is also home can become aggressive, in Okinawa, keep train- BA program manager. rounding Okinawa, there to poisonous fish. Freeland said. ing. It doesn’t matter Freeland recommends are unique underwater The stonefish, the dead- An often overlooked what course a diver is divers receive training animals and topographic liest fish in the world, is hazard of diving is unex- taking, safety is a topic up to the rescue diver features that divers from responsible for the deaths ploded ordnance left over covered in each course qualification. the states may not be of many people. Stonefish from World War II, said curriculum, Mares said. Beware of these dangerous creatures while in the water

lionfish sea snake

sea URCHIN stonefish box jellyfish okinawa marine | MARKETPLACE | june 6, 2008 11 in theaters single marine program events June 11-12 | SOUTHERN CAMPS STAR PROGRAM June 6 - 12 • First day includes visits to Pineapple Park, glass factory, the Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to Jusco shopping center and more; second day includes visits to confirm show times. For a complete listing, visit http://www.aafes.com. Shuri Castle, Kokusai Street and a tutorial on how to use public transportation. • Bus Departures (both days): Camp Kinser, 7 a.m.; MCAS Foster Kadena Futenma, 7:30 a.m.; Camp Foster, 7:55 a.m. 645-3465 634-1869 June 13 | Southern Camps Discover Golf Friday Superhero (PG13), 6 p.m.; Friday Indiana Jones and the Stop Loss (R), 10 p.m. Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG13), 5 • Free class at Awase Golf Course teaches you how to set up a tee time, and 9 p.m. For more information, cart and club rental, club types, swing techniques and putting styles. contact the Single SATURDAY Speed Racer (PG), noon; Saturday Closed • Morning departures: Camp Kinser, 7:30; MCAS Futenma, 8 Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Marine Program Office Crystal Skull (PG13), 3, 6:30 and 10 p.m. at 645-3681. a.m.; Camp Foster, 8:30 a.m. sunday Indiana Jones and the sunday Closed Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG13), VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES 12:30 and 4 p.m.; Sex and the City (R), • The Marine Thrift Shop on Camp Foster needs two volunteers 7:30 p.m. from each camp weekly. Contact your SMP representative. monday Stop Loss (R), 7 p.m. monday Indiana Jones and the King- All bus pick-up points dom of the Crystal Skull (PG13), 7 p.m. will be at Semper Fit • Kinser Elementary School needs student mentors Friday tuesday The Ruins (R), 7 p.m. Tuesday The Chronicles of Narnia: gyms or the Foster mornings. To volunteer, call 637-5028. Prince Caspian (PG), 7 p.m. Fieldhouse. wednesday Street Kings (R), 7 p.m. Wednesday The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 7 p.m. Thursday Sex and the City (R), 7 Thursday The Chronicles of Narnia: chapel schedule p.m. Prince Caspian (PG), 7 p.m. Camp Kinser | 637-1148 Camp Hansen | 623-4694 courtney hansen • Catholic: Sun., 11 a.m. • Catholic: Sun., 10 a.m., E. Chapel 622-9616 623-4564 • Gospel: Sun., 8 a.m. • Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m., W. Chapel • Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. • Seventh-day Adventist: Sat., 9 a.m., W. Chapel Friday Sex and the City (R), 6 and Friday Stop Loss (R), 6 p.m.; 21 9:30 p.m. (PG13), 9 p.m. MCAS Futenma | 636-3058 Camp Schwab | 625-2644/2866 Saturday Penelope (PG), 2 p.m.; Saturday The Chronicles of Narnia: • Catholic: Sun., noon • Catholic: Sun., 5:30 p.m. Super Hero (PG13), 7 p.m. Prince Caspian (PG), 6 p.m.; Iron Man (PG13), 9 p.m. • Contemporary: Sun., 9 a.m. • Protestant: Sun., 11:30 a.m. sunday The Chronicles of Narnia: sunday Stop Loss (R), 2 p.m.; 21 Prince Caspian (PG), 7 p.m. (PG13), 5:30 p.m. Camp Foster | 645-7486/7487 Camp Lester | 643-7248 • Catholic: Mon.-Fri., 11:45 a.m.; • Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m., Lester Chapel monday Leatherheads (PG13), 7 monday Sex and the City (R), 7 p.m. p.m. Sat., 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. • Protestant: Sun., 9 a.m., Hospital Chapel • Christian Science: Sun., 11 a.m., Bldg. 442 Sun., 10 a.m., Lester Chapel tuesday Closed tuesday Sex and the City (R), 7 p.m. • Eastern Orthodox: Sun., 9:30 a.m. Tue., noon, Hospital Chapel (Eucharist) wednesday Penelope (PG), 1 p.m.; wednesday Never Back Down • Gospel: Sun., 11:30 a.m. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the (PG13), 7 p.m. • Hindu: Sat., 3:30 p.m., Bldg. 455 Kadena Air Base | 634-1288 Crystal Skull (PG13), 7 p.m. • Jewish: Fri., Traditional, 6:00 p.m.; • Buddhist: Sat., 10 a.m., Bldg. 856 thursday Closed thursday Indiana Jones and the Informal (first and third Friday), 6:30 p.m. • Catholic: Sun., 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG13), Sun., 11:30 a.m., Reconciliation, Chapel 1 7 p.m. • Muslim: Friday prayer, 12:45 p.m. • Protestant: Sun., 8:30 a.m. Sun., 12:30 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Sun., 5 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Kinser Schwab Sun., 10:30 a.m., CCD, Amelia Earhart School 637-2177 625-2333 Camp Courtney | 622-9350 • Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.; Daily Mass; Mon.-Thurs., noon, Chapel 2 • Protestant: Sun., 10:30 a.m., Contemp., Chapel 1 Friday 21 (PG13), 3 p.m.; Stop Loss Friday The Chronicles of Narnia: Daily, 11:45 a.m. Sun., 8:30 a.m., Inspirational, Chapel 2 (R), 6:30 p.m. Prince Caspian (PG), 7 p.m. • Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m., Traditional, Chapel 2 • Episcopal: Sun., 6:30 p.m. Saturday Nim’s Island (PG), 3 p.m.; Saturday Super Hero (PG13), 5 p.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m., Gospel, Chapel 3 21 (PG13), 6:30 p.m. Sunday School, 8:45 a.m., Bldg. 856 sunday Nim’s Island (PG), 3 p.m.; sunday Leatherheads (PG13), 5 Camp McTureous | 622-7505 • Wiccan/Pagan: Fri., 7 p.m., Chapel 1 Stop Loss (R), 6:30 p.m. p.m. • Gospel: Sun., 12:30 p.m. Sat., 6 p.m., Bldg. 856 MONDAY Closed monday Closed • Lutheran: Sun., 9:30 a.m. TUESDAY Closed tuesday Closed wednesday Iron Man (PG13), 3 wednesday Closed classified ads p.m.; Sex and the City (R), 6:30 p.m.

Automobiles 646-4451 jci May 09, $1,500 OBO, MISCELLANEOUS thursday Closed thursday Closed ’94 Toyota ed 634-5674 ’98 suzuki wagon r jci June 09, $900 OBO, ’95 toyota RAV4 — Tires/rims set, $150, — Wood wall unit, Futenma uso jci Apr. 09, $2,000 OBO, (090) 9808-7824 jci Aug. 09, $4,000 (090) 6868-1998 $1,100; remote (090) 5472-5677 ’94 Toyota levin jci OBO, 634-5674 — 9x5 rugs, $20 control motorcycle, 636-3890 movie nights ’98 Mitsubishi June 09, $1,000 OBO, ’95 Toyota CERES jci each; 1,000 watt $50; Pioneer 6X9 car chariot (090) 6650-8194 May 10, $1,800 OBO, transformers, $50 each; speakers, $40, (090) Friday Leatherheads (PG13), 6:30 The USO hosts movie nights jci Apr. 09, $3,000 OBO, ’94 honda prelude (080) 3007-1502 Epson printer, $20; 1947-9856 p.m. at the locations below. oscillating heaters, $25 — New Windows Vista (090) 5472-5677 jci Aug. 08, $1,500 motorcycles ’96 NISSAN prairie OBO, 646-4291 / 4371 each; (090) 8454-2598 HP Pavilion, warranty, Saturday Sex and the City (R), 4 For schedules and start times, call: jci Oct. 08, $1,500 OBO, ’97 nissan march ’05 Harley — Honda rims (4) $750, 646-8325 and 7 p.m. 646-8208 jci Sept. 09, $2,000, Davidson 883 Dunlop P185/65 R14’s, — Nordic Track treadmill, $200 OBO, 634-5764 $100, 645-4696 sunday Super Hero (PG13), 4 p.m.; ’96 honda odyssey (090) 6861-1979 SPORTSTER $8,000 jci Aug. 09, $2,000 ’96 toyota ipsum OBO, (098) 879-2999 Run Fatboy Run (PG13), 7 p.m. Camp Schwab 625-3834 Ads appearing in the Okinawa Marine are a free ser- OBO, 646-8208 jci Feb. 10, $2,900 OBO, ’04 Harley vice to active duty military and their dependents, DoD monday The Chronicles of Narnia: mcas futenma 636-2113 ’95 NISSAN LARGO call Westpac Rm. 114 Davidson XL 883 employees and retirees. Ads are restricted to personal Prince Caspian (PG13), 6:30 p.m. jci Nov. 09, $2,500 ’00 MAZDA SPORTSTER property or service of incidental exchange. Ads are Camp Hansen 623-5011 run on a space-available basis. The deadline for ads is OBO, (090) 6868-1998 ROADSTER jci May 09, JCI Mar. 09, $5,500, Tuesday-Thursday Closed noon Fridays. The Okinawa Marine reserves the right Kadena air base 632-8781 ’94 Bmw 325I $4,000, 645-4004 (080) 3487-2975 to edit ads to fit available space. Please include your jci July 09, $3,600 OBO, ’94 toyota supra ’02 Harley name and the phone number you wish published. The (090) 9850-3379 jci Oct. 09, $4,000 OBO, Davidson 883 JCI Okinawa Marine makes every effort to ensure accu- racy but assumes no responsibility for services offered ’96 HONDA ODYSSEY 634-5674 Oct. 09, $6,000 OBO, in ads. Submit ads by fax to 645-3803, or send an jci Oct. 09, $2,000, ’95 HONDA INTEGRA (080) 3521-0995 e-mail to [email protected]. okinawa marine | SPORTS | june 6, 2008 12 MCB shuts down MACG-18, claims Camp Foster Softball CC Cup victory

Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn Corps Base who came out on top. Wing Headquarters Squadron loss sent MACG-18 to the losers’ okinawa marine staff MCB claimed the champion- 1 and went on to defeat Marine bracket. ship title with a 9-5 victory over Aircraft Group 36, 11-7. MACG-18 went on to defeat CAMP FOSTER — Five teams com- Marine Air Control Group 18 in MCB then cruised to an 18-4 MAG-36, 10-7, securing a spot in peted in the Camp Commander’s the final game on Foster. victory over MACG-18 during the finals where they fell to MCB. Cup Softball Tournament on Camp MCB started the tournament their first encounter in the double The top three teams each received Foster May 30-31, but it was Marine with a 12-7 victory over Marine elimination tournament. The trophies and medals respectively. BIG GAME, SMALL FRAME Playing for fun pays off in Texas Hold’em tournament Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn okinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Just playing for fun, Kevin Miller managed to take first place in the Marine Corps Com- munity Services Texas Hold’em Tournament at the Globe and Anchor Enlisted Club June 2. The tournament started with 31 competitors and four tables. The blinds, or minimum required bets, started at $25 for small blinds and $50 for big blinds, and were raised every 20 minutes. The buy in for the tournament was $10 for $2,500 in poker chips. Within 40 minutes, 11 players were eliminated leav- ing 20 competitors at three tables, with small blinds at $50 and big blinds at $100. At the break, there were just 13 players left with small blinds at $200 and big blinds at $400. About an hour after the break, only five competitors were left, all of whom received a cash prize. Steven White and Lucio Villegas were the first two of the final five to go down. Each leaving with a $25 prize. About an hour and fifteen minutes after the break, with only three players left, Jessie Babitz was elimi- nated, leaving the final two players. Babitz left with a $50 prize for third place. Shortly after, Richard Mathis went all in trying to trick Kevin Miller into folding, but Miller called his bluff and won the competition. Mathis walked away with $75, while Miller, a little After years of hard work and dedication, Lance Cpl. Ryan McLellan, a maintenance more confident, pocketed $150. management specialist with Marine Air Control Group 18 who stands under 6 feet tall, is Texas Hold’em tournaments are held at 6 p.m. every at the top of his game as the current leading scorer with the All-Marine Basketball Team. Monday and Wednesday night at the Globe and Anchor SEE STORY ON PAGE 8. Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn Enlisted Club on Camp Foster.

Commanding General Maj. Gen. Mary Ann Krusa-Dossin okinawa marine newspaper H&S Battalion MCB PAO Unit 35002 public affairs Director Lt. Col. Douglas M. Powell FPO AP 96373-5002

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 chief Services under exclusive written contract with Marine Corps Base Camp Corps Community Services of the products and services advertised. Press officer 1st Lt. Doy T. D. Demsick Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available Cpl. Warren Peace The editorial content of this newspaper is edited and approved for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, Camp Foster, 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. Press chief Gunnery Sgt. William J. Ray This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser northern Bureau chief military services stationed overseas, at sea and their families. Its contents is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that Sgt. Rodolfo E. Toro do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, source until the violation is corrected. DESIGN editor Cpl. Eric D. Arndt the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine Corps and do not imply All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are “official U.S. Marine Camp Hansen, 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. editor Cpl. Warren Peace