iii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases

march 25, 2011 www.okinawa.usmc.mil Key Resolve assets for support of Lance Cpl. Michael Iams okinawa marine staff

CAMP MUJUK, POHANG, Repub- lic of Korea — Exercise Key Resolve 2011 ended March 10, and 1st Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members and III Marine Expeditionary Force Marines team up to offload Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine about 25,000 bottles of water from a the back of a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter during Operation Tomodachi March Expeditionary Force, assets used 20. Operation Tomodachi is a humanitarian assistance operation supporting Japanese relief efforts to minimize human for the exercise are being sent to suffering. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ethan Johnson mainland Japan to support humani- tarian assistance and disaster relief efforts there. According to Sgt. Kevin Medina, Operation Tomodachi continues a system administrator with Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 18, Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st III MEF, MCBJ supporting relief efforts MAW, Key Resolve was an excellent way to train with the Air Force and Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher Expeditionary Force and Marine By March 24, III MEF had flown use database exchanges between okinawa marine staff Corps Bases Japan Marines and more than 450 helicopter and air- the services. sailors are deployed to mainland craft missions providing assistance “The coordination between the OKINAWA, Japan — III Marine Japan supporting Government of in survivor recovery, personnel system administrator, the interface Expeditionary Force and Marine Japan-led humanitarian assistance/ transport and relief supplies distri- control officer and the Hardened Corps Bases Japan are continuing to disaster relief efforts following the bution. More than 129,000 pounds Tactical Air Control Center kept actively provide support to Opera- 9.0 magnitude earthquake and of water and 4,200 pounds of food the commanding general’s satellite tion Tomodachi on mainland Japan. subsequent tsunami that struck have been distributed, according picture up and operational at all More than 1,000 III Marine northern Japan March 11. see TOMODACHI pg 5 times,” said Gunnery Sgt. Columbus Wilson, an interface control officer with MTACS-18. The data links between the Ma- rine Tactical Air Communication HASTs mission determines need Center and the Air Force HTACC Cpl. Brandon L. Saunders and Construction Force, came together to form the HASTs. worked with no connection prob- Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud “It’s what we are here for as SeaBees,” said Chief lems throughout the exercise, ac- okinawa marine staff Petty Officer Joshua Kolenda, builder, NMCB 133. “This cording to Staff Sgt. Michael Selden, is our job.” a crew chief with MTACS-18, ASTUGI, Japan — Humanitarian Assistance Survey The HASTs are comprised of Marine and sailor sub- Due to current relief efforts in Teams, III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), are ject matter experts in civil affairs, engineering, logistics, Japan, 1st MAW communication as- in Japan to assist in planning humanitarian assistance communications, motor transport and field medicine. sets that would have been deployed and disaster relief operations following the March 11 9.0 Marines and sailors combine complementary skill back to Okinawa are being sent to magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. sets to accomplish the HAST mission, according to Petty mainland Japan instead. Marines and sailors from units across III Marine Officer 1st Class Mathew Culberson, builder, NMCB 133. “We are sending a Lamda an- Expeditionary Force and as well as SeaBees with Navy HAST members evaluate the damage done in an area tenna, a Lightweight Multiband Mobile Construction Battalion 133, 22nd Naval Construc- then provide commanders the information they need to Satellite Terminal and a Support tion Regiment, First Naval Construction Division, Naval see HAST pg 5 see ENDEX pg 5

NMCRS SPEARHEADING AID TO VICTIMS The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Junior Marine leads effort to offer Society kicks of its 2011 Active assistance to victims on mainland Japan Duty Fund Drive. in the form of a canned food drive.

issue PG. 10 in this Pg. 4 okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | March 25, 2011

MCB2 commanding general Around offers message of comfort Corpsthe “Be assured, the health and safety of you and your family is always your leadership’s top priority.”

he thoughts and prayers of Oki- and yourself. nawa’s U.S. military community As many of T go out to those who have been you know, eligi- A Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron, 26th Marine affected by the events in northeastern ble family mem- Expeditionary Unit’s AV-8B Harrier jump jet returns to Honshu and the events at the nuclear bers stationed USS Kearsarge for fuel and ammunition resupply while power plant at Fukushima. We do on Honshu have conducting air strikes in support of Joint Task Force Odyssey understand that there will naturally been advised Dawn, March 20. Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn is the U.S. Africa Command task force established to provide be interest and questions about health that they may Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri operational and tactical command and control of U.S. impacts associated with these events leave at govern- is commanding general of military forces supporting the international response to the throughout Japan, even extending here ment expense Marine Corps Base Camp unrest in Libya and enforcement of United Nations Security Smedley D. Butler. Photo by to Okinawa. as part of a Council Resolution 1973. Photo by Lance Cpl. Michael S. Lockett U.S. military public health officials Department of Lance Cpl. Matheus Hernandez on Okinawa are continuously review- State-approved, ing the health assessments that have Department of Defense-implemented been made by the Government of Japan, voluntary authorized departure. As the the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. Embassy has stated, this measure U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. was taken out of an abundance of cau- As Ambassador John Roos stated in tion, and in order to enable U.S. gov- his recent message, American nuclear ernment officials and the uniformed experts have been and will continue to military to concentrate on the tasks at analyze the environmental levels out- hand. Government-funded voluntary side of the evacuation area obtained by departure is not authorized for families very sensitive Japanese and American stationed in Okinawa nor at Marine detection instruments. These assess- Corps Air Station Iwakuni. Cpl. Joel Bruce, a fire support man with 1st Air Naval ments have revealed no association Be assured, the health and safety Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary between the events at Fukushima and of you and your family is always your Force Headquarters Group, I MEF, assembles an RQ- the environment on Okinawa. leadership’s top priority. 11A Raven unmanned aerial vehicle during training at U.S. military public health officials The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo has re- Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 16. The purpose of the on Okinawa are monitoring Okinawa’s leased an update for American citizens training is to familiarize Marines with the UAV and its environmental quality as the events at in Japan, which has been posted on components. Photo by Cpl. Salvador R. Moreno Fukushima unfold and in concert with the Marine Corps Bases Japan website: the U.S. Consulate in Naha will provide http://www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan. immediate health assessment informa- You can also register to receive e-mailed tion to the U.S. military community on updates from the U.S. Embassy regard- Okinawa so that you can make intelli- ing the safety of Americans in Japan by gent decisions for your families’ health visiting http://travel.state.gov. Okinawa Marine is now online • www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan • www.facebook.com/iiimef.mcbj Col. Adele Hodges, right, former commanding officer • www.flickr.com/3mefpao • www.youtube.com/3mefcpao of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, speaks with attendants of the Women’s History Program at the Paradise Point Officers’ Club, MCB Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 11. Hodges was the guest speaker for the event, expounding on her experiences as a female Marine. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Wright

Commanding GeneralMaj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri okinawa marine newspaper H&S Battalion MCB PAO public affairs Director Lt. Col. David M. Griesmer Unit 35002 Press Officer 1st Lt. John D. Norton FPO AP 96373-5002 The Okinawa Marine is published by Marine Corps Community Services Marine Corps, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler or Marine Corps Com- under exclusive written contract with Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, munity Services of the products and services advertised. Press Chief Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher Central Bureau Okinawa, Japan. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, The editorial content of this newspaper is edited and approved by the Consoli- use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, Camp Foster dated Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler. marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor DESIGN editor Audra A. Satterlee This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of military services of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity DSN 645-9335 stationed overseas, at sea and their families. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine from that source until the violation is corrected. Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof. All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are “official U.S. Marine Corps photos.” HQMC DivPA Best Tabloid northern Bureau The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supple- For more information, e-mail us at [email protected] or write to us Camp Hansen ments, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the U.S. at Public Affairs Office, H&S BN MCB PAO, Unit 35002, FPO AP 96373-5002. Format Newspaper, 2010 DSN 623-4224 okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011

SOFA personnel donate to relief efforts3 Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite ensure culturally, dietary and okinawa marine staff environmentally appropriate assistance,” according to the CAMP HANSEN — A 9.0 Press Secretary’s release. magnitude earthquake, with People are looking for an epicenter located 231 ways to help those in the miles northeast of Tokyo, disaster-stricken region, but and subsequent tsunami some organizations are not as has resulted in at least 9,199 honest as they appear, warns deaths, 13,786 missing people a Marine Corps Base Camp and 2,722 injured people on Butler official. mainland Japan as of March “(Computer users) should 22, according to the National be on the lookout for unso- Police Agency of Japan. licited e-mails pertaining These natural disasters to the earthquake, nuclear have damaged or destroyed reactors or tsunamis,” said nearly 37,700 buildings, 580 Michael Miglionico, an in- roads, 30 bridges and sev- formation assurance officer en railways throughout the with Marine Corps Base country, according to the Camp Butler. “A lot of scams Blankets, coats, food and other items fill the Camp Foster Navy Federal Credit Union branch United States Agency for come out when things like office March 18. The NFCU team chose to store items here until they can be shipped to mainland International Development. this happen.” Japan to help in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. Photo by Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite “USAID is coordinating These scams often circu- the overall U.S. government late malicious software and Center director. “The com- Corps Federal Credit Union basis or through the vari- efforts in support of the Japa- scam people into donating munity’s outreach has just branch offices. ous blood drives around the nese government’s response funds to unscrupulous or- been amazing.” All Navy Federal Credit island. to the earthquakes and subse- ganizations instead of to the Center personnel are cur- Union branch offices began Those on Okinawa can quent tsunami that hit March charities or causes they had rently advising people to collecting clothes, hygiene donate to any earthquake/ 11 and are currently direct- intended, he added. donate money through the items, blankets and cash tsunami relief effort on island ing individuals to www. On American military American Red Cross offices donations on the morning of as individuals or as groups, usaid.gov for information bases, there are a number located on Okinawa instead. March 15. By that afternoon, but those donating as groups about response donations,” of authorized organizations For the American Red NFCU had all the material need to ensure they follow according to a release from collecting donations for relief Cross, “100 percent of all items it could handle and proper procedures. the White House Press Sec- efforts on mainland Japan. donations are going straight is now accepting monetary It is against Department retary. The Kadena Youth Center to the Japanese earthquake donations only. of Defense regulations to Personnel looking for ways on started and tsunami relief,” said The Armed Services Blood conduct fundraisers in fed- to help people on mainland collecting blankets, coats, Kellie Premo, chairman Bank is also in need of blood eral workplaces, other than Japan have several options. baby supplies and hygiene of volunteers for Kadena’s donations. in support of the Combined USAID is currently en- items for the people on main- American Red Cross office. “There is a large need for Federal Campaign, the Navy- couraging “cash donations land Japan March 14. By In addition to monetary blood right now as the blood Marine Corps Relief Soci- because they allow aid pro- that evening, the center had donations, canned food bank is not only collecting ety and other organizations fessionals to procure the received all donations its contributions can be made donations for the relief ef- composed primarily of DOD exact items needed; reduce warehouse could hold. In at a drop box at the Camp forts, but also for the upcom- employees. the burden on scarce re- the one day of collections, Courtney commissary. Ma- ing Balikatan exercise,” said Before starting a fund- sources such as transporta- the Kadena Youth Center col- rine volunteers with 3rd Douglas Kennedy, ASBB raiser on Marine Corps bases, tion routes, staff time and lected more than 300 boxes Marine Division, III Marine recruiter. “Without the blood approval must be granted warehouse space; can be of items for earthquake and Expeditionary Force, are (that the ASBB collects), we by the camp’s deputy com- transferred very quickly and tsunami victims. coordinating this canned can’t give the patients a sec- mander, according to the without transportation costs; “The donations just ex- food drive with support ond chance. Be a hero’s hero.” Marine Corps Base Camp support the economy of the ploded,” said Geoff Rhine- from the Courtney com- Donations are accepted Smedley D. Butler Inspector disaster-stricken region; and hart, the Kadena Youth missary and Navy Marine on a walk-in or appointment General’s Office. VMGR-152 receives award for sustained performance Cpl. Justin R. Wheeler The squadron, known as the “Sumos,” provided support. That’s about ten aircraft deployed around okinawa marine staff support to combat operations in Afghanistan while the globe at any given time.” surpassing 270,000 mishap-free flight hours. The The Commandant’s Aviation Award was estab- MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA — squadron also flew missions in the Republic of lished in 1969, and VMGR-152 has received the The 2011 Commandant’s Aviation Trophy, part Korea, Republic of the Philippines, Republic of award twice before – in 1992 and again in 1993. The of the 2011 Marine Corps Aviation Awards, was Singapore, Kingdom of Thailand and Kingdom of award was established to recognize the best overall awarded to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Cambodia throughout the year. performance and accomplishment of all assigned Squadron 152, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Currently, VMGR-152 is actively supporting tasks by an active or reserve Marine squadron. Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary humanitarian assistance and disaster relief op- “What is especially satisfying is the fact that not Force, for outstanding performance of a Marine erations in mainland Japan as part of Operation only have our Marines excelled in their mission aviation squadron. Tomodachi. to support III MEF but have also won an unprec- “This award for sustained performance is a “VMGR-152 is unique in that we don’t support edented amount of meritorious promotion boards, testament to the hard work and commitment by individual detachments or exercises one at a time,” Wing- and Group-level Marine of the Quarter and all the Marines in VMGR-152 who quietly work said Peck. “We support every (III) MEF exercise Year awards and the USO Okinawa Service Mem- nights, weekends and long hours to keep these concurrently, maintaining a two-plane detach- ber of the Year Award,” said Peck. airplanes flying and the squadron functioning 24 ment in support of (Operation Enduring Free- Award recipients will be recognized during the hours a day, seven days a week,” said Lt. Col. John dom) and routinely execute short notice support 40th annual MCAA Symposium and Awards Din- M. Peck, VMGR-152’s commanding officer. requests from units requiring logistics or training ner scheduled for May 19-21 in San Diego. okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011

briefs 4 DEPLOYING MARINES EDUCATION INFO Marine earns Deploying Marines enrolled in voluntary education classes are advised to contact their schools and officially bronze star withdraw from classes prior to their departure or before classes begin. Students who fail to withdraw from a class may be liable for tuition assistance reimbursement. Units with individuals enrolled in classes who have already deployed are urged to contact the Education Center for appropriate assistance. For more information, call 645-3486. us consulate general naha The U.S. Consulate General Naha is actively supporting the U.S. Embassy NMCRS kicks relief efforts for the earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan. The first priority of the American Citizen Services off Active Duty section is to provide emergency assistance to Americans affected by the disaster. Currently, the passport unit is closed Fund Drive ‘11 for regular business. The passport Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland unit is still open for emergency needs, okinawa marine staff including emergency passports. If you have emergency travel needs, call 098- CAMP FOSTER — The 2011 Navy-Marine Corps 876-4211 or e-mail [email protected]. Relief Society Active Duty Fund Drive kicked off Regular appointments will become March 22 in support of the society’s overall mission. available once these services resume. The NMCRS is a worldwide nonprofit charitable Military service members may apply organization designed to provide financial, educa- for passports at their military passport tional and other assistance to members of the U.S. na- acceptance agent’s office. val services, eligible family members and survivors. The visa section is also only able to “It’s important to contribute to this drive because process emergency cases at this time. our contributions allow the society to provide contin- Check the website for availability of ued support to our Marines and sailors in need. You appointments as these become available 1st Sgt. Christopher Garza, right, company first never know when you’ll be faced with an emergency in April. sergeant for Truck Company, Headquarters Battalion, that requires an unexpected need for financial as- 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Notarials are currently only being sistance,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Corcoran, deputy, Staff shakes the hand of Lt. Col. Nicholas Lourian, executive provided if required for other emergency Judge Advocate, Marine Corps Bases Japan. officer HQ Bn., after receiving the Bronze Star Medal consular services. The office is not “Last year, on Okinawa alone, the NMCRS pro- with combat “V” during a ceremony at Camp Hansen providing assistance for federal benefits vided $615, 398 in total assistance to 840 clients. March 18. Garza received the medal for his actions programs at this time. The majority of these clients never expected they while serving in Afghanistan as the first sergeant for Contact 098-876-4211 for any Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory would need help.” emergency services. Command – Central 3-7, 201st Corps, Afghan National Specific support offered by the society includes Army. Photo by Lance Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr. MMSB/MMPR Visit Quick Assist Loans, education loans for active duty commission programs and financial development Headquarters Marine Corps will be sending representatives here from the classes such as Budget for Baby and Financial Boot Manpower Management Promotion Camp. Branch and Manpower Management Interest-free loans are also available to cover food, Support Branch to conduct briefs to all rent, emergency transportation, funeral expenses, MACG-18 welcomes officers, staff noncommissioned officers medical bills and more. and sergeants regarding the centralized The annual fund drive provides an opportunity new senior enlisted promotion process. These briefs are also for active duty Marines and sailors to give back to intended for all supervisors who may an organization that has improved the quality of life write performance evaluations for of- of active duty and retired sailors, Marines and their ficers, staff noncommissioned officers families for 107 years, said Corcoran. and sergeants. During the drive, Marines and sailors will be The briefs are scheduled as follows: contacted by unit representatives who will provide April 18, 8 a.m. Camp Kinser Theater them with donation forms and brochures describing April 18, 1 p.m. Camp Kinser Theater the benefits of the NMCRS, said Francesca Fender, a April 19, 8 a.m. Camp Hansen Theater relief service assistant with NMCRS. Service mem- April 19, 1 p.m. Camp Courtney bers can give tax-deductible donations by authoriz- Theater ing allotments from their pay for up to 12 months or It is recommended personnel attend providing one-time contributions with cash or check. the brief nearest their place of employ- Contributors can rest assured their donations Wisniewski Eriksson ment, but attendance at the location most will go directly to those needing assistance, said Corcoran. Sgt. Maj. Paul J. Wisniewski became sergeant major of convenient to an individual’s personal Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, “We want to make it clear 100 percent of the schedule is authorized. III Marine Expeditionary Force, relieving Sgt. Maj. Robert money donated during this fund drive will go right E. Eriksson during a post and relief ceremony on Marine TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to back into the loan program,” said Corcoran. “During Corps Air Station Futenma March 22. Winiewski joined [email protected], or fax 22 years of service, I’ve witnessed the NMCRS step MACG-18 from Marine Air Support Squadron 2, MACG-18. your request to 645-3803. The deadline in on multiple occasions to assist my Marines during for submitting a brief is noon Friday. Eriksson is leaving Okinawa to become the Marine Corps Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit difficult times. It is an extremely beneficial program.” Base Hawaii sergeant major. all submitted material. The drive is scheduled to continue until May 14. okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011

TOMODACHI from pg 1 III MEF has also deployed “This is a testament to our to the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. other assets in support of Op- commitment to this effort Beginning March 12, Ma- eration Tomodachi. and our relationship with the5 rine Aircraft Group 36, 1st The first III MEF Human- JGSDF,” said Lt. Col. Anthony Marine Aircraft Wing, III itarian Assistance Survey N. Frasco, CATC Camp Fuji’s MEF, personnel were boarding Teams were deployed to main- executive officer, March 17 of KC-130J cargo aircraft bound land Japan March 12 with ad- having the convoy organized for mainland and Marine ditional teams sent March 13. and on the road within 48 Medium Helicopter Squadron These teams assess damage hours of being tasked. 265, MAG-36, pilots were in affected areas and provide “We are looking forward flying CH-46E transport he- this information to command- to joining the relief efforts,” Marines attached to Humanitarian Assistance Survey licopters to Naval Air Facility ers for more efficient disaster said Col. Craig S. Kozeniesky, Teams, III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), prepare Atsugi to provide assistance in to travel to Sendai as part of the disaster relief effort in relief planning. In all, four CATC Camp Fuji’s command- Japan March 14. Photo by Cpl. Brandon L. Saunders surrounding areas. HASTs were deployed. ing officer, March 18. “We consider Japan our By March 13, III MEF The Marines of HMM- HAST from pg 1 home away from home, and (Forward) had established a 265 had delivered more than analyze what missions need to be done and what the survivors (of the natural command element on main- 42,000 pounds of heating fuel people and equipment are needed to accomplish the disaster) are in our prayers,” land Japan responsible for to small villages in Japan’s missions, said Kolenda. said Lt. Col. Damien M. coordinating Marine Corps northern areas by March 18, Structural damage assessments will be accom- Marsh, commanding officer relief efforts with the larger according to HMM-265 of- plished through cooperation between Marine civil of HMM-265, also known as support effort conducted by ficials. and structural engineers along with construction the “Dragons.” U.S. Forces Japan which also “Knowing that we were input from the Seabees, said Kolenda. “We have made dozens of includes coordination by the helping the Japanese Govern- “The civil affairs role on a team like this is to con- deliveries into small (landing U.S. Department of State, U.S. ment to deliver warmth to its duct … assessments of any type of natural disaster or zones) located near the surviv- Agency for International De- people was extremely reward- crisis,” said Staff Sgt. Kevin L. Tisdale, civil affairs al shelters,” said Marsh. “The velopment and the U.S. Pacific ing,” said Marsh. chief for the HAST. “We provide the information Dragons are honored that we command, all working closely Marines with 1st MAW to the commander in the rear so he can determine are able to help. Our training with Japanese authorities. units are conducting almost how much support is needed.” has prepared us well for this A Forward Air Refuel- daily flights from MCAS “We work to understand the resources we have mission.” ing Point, transported from Futenma transporting III MEF within III MEF and to match requirements to capa- Since deploying to main- Okinawa on the WestPac personnel as well as deliv- bilities,” said Master Sgt. Alexis Gil, HAST staff non- land Japan, the Marines of Express High Speed Vessel, ering food, water, blankets commissioned officer-in-charge, Combat Logistics HMM-265 have flown 164 was established March 16 at communication equipment Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. support sorties carrying 130 Yamagata Airfield. A FARP is and other needed supplies to The HAST will also benefit from working closely passengers and transporting a temporary refueling facility MCAS Iwakuni, Yokota Air with Japanese subject-matter experts from the Japan 94,230 pounds of cargo, ac- that facilitates the continu- Base, Atsugi and Misawa Air Self-Defense Forces, government and/or private cording to Marsh. ous operation of aircraft. The Base for redistribution to areas sector, while pursuing the mission, according to Marsh said he has been im- FARP at Yamagata will allow needing aid. Marine aircraft Culberson. pressed with the compassion aircraft to refuel there when have also flown numerous “(The Japanese) have earthquakes here often, disaster survivors have shown delivering needed supplies in sorties throughout Japan in so their engineers are used to that challenge,” said for each other. the tsunami-ravaged Sendai support of aid missions. Kolenda. “We are not here to give them advice on “A credit to the survivors region, greatly increasing the In addition, III MEF air- their engineering; they are very capable of that them- is their compassion for oth- III MEF’s abilities to provide craft were the first to fly into selves. We are here to see what they want us to do ers. On several landings, they support to this region. the March 20 to help them and see what we are capable of doing. refused excess supplies and Marines stationed at the since the airport reopened “We all work hand-in-hand,” added Kolenda. asked us to fly them to other Combined Arms Training after suffering extensive dam- The HAST’s initial priority will be on completing shelters that need them more,” Center, Camp Fuji, convoyed age. assessments of public works and utilities critical to Marsh said. from the camp to Yamagata III MEF Marines and sail- sustaining a large population. The secondary prior- “The Marines and sailors Airport March 17-18, escorted ors are deployed throughout ity is assessing personal residences and commercial of HMM-265 have been deeply by Japan Ground Self-Defense mainland Japan at MCAS business, according to Culberson. touched be the actions of sur- Force members, to join III MEF Iwakuni, Yokota, Atsugi, Once HAST members determine the extent of vivors. Everybody wants to (Fwd) and establish a Hu- Camp Sendai and Yamagata damage, U.S. Forces Japan, U.S. Department of State help,” he said adding when the manitarian Assistance Center. Air Field. and the U.S. Agency for International Development squadron makes deliveries, Convoy assets included six Tomodachi, which means along with Japanese authorities are able to form a it’s often the survivors who 7-tons, 11 humvees, com- “friends” in Japanese, was the coordinated response tailored to the needs of the line up to help the air crews munication trucks and other name selected by Japan for affected areas, according to Kolenda. unload supplies quickly. tactical vehicles. this operation.

A tactical forklift hauls pallets of communication gear used during Exercise Key Resolve in the Republic of Korea March 15. The gear was flown to mainland Japan to help with the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts there. Photo by Lance Cpl. Michael Iams

ENDEX from pg 1 pallets of communication gear to Naval Air The FARP was established by 1st MAW Wide Area Network to help aid the disaster Facility Atsugi, Japan. Marines at Sendai’s Yamagata Airport to relief in Japan,” said Lance Cpl. Annalynn “The gear is being sent to Atsugi to support increase military airlift capabilities. Delvalle, an embarkation specialist with the Air Combat Element Command Operation- According to Delvalle, the squadron Marine Wing Communication Squadron 18, al Center and Sendai to support the Forward loaded about 25,000 pounds of gear to help MACG-18. Air Refuel Point,” said 1st Lt. Mike Parrott, a support III MEF Marines already deployed In all, Marines from MWCS-18 sent five detachment executive officer with MWCS-18. to aid Japan. 6 okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011

Maj. Gen. Mark A. Brilakis, commanding general, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, travels to Matsushima Air Base, Sendai Airport and Camp Sendai to survey the damage done to areas affected by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami which struck Japan March 11. These efforts include coordination by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development, in constant consultation with Japanese officials. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jason Chatman

A U.S. Air Force MC-130T cargo plane arrives at Matsushima Air Base, Japan, March 16 carrying 25,000 bottles of water. Service members from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, III Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Army Japan and the U.S. Army's 1st Corps met the plane and helped unload the water intended for Operation Tomodachi. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Leo A. Salinas Operation Tomodachi continues relief efforts A Marine with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Air Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and a member of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force unload a barrel of kerosene at Ishinomaki Josi High School March 19. The high school has been converted into an aid and relief center for citizens affected by the earthquake and tsunami. The Marine Corps is responding to requests by the Japanese government to support the humanitarian assistance. Photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew A. Denny okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011 7

Marines, Airmen, and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force load boxes of humanitarian aid supplies on trucks for transport to tsunami-stricken areas near Sendai, Japan March 20. These supplies arrived on the first flights into Sendai Airport after the airport was re-opened March 20 following the earthquake and tsunami. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jason Chatman

A military spouse and child wait in line to get their names on a roster during an authorized voluntary departure on Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, March 18. The Department of Defense has implemented the Department of State-approved authorization for voluntary departures of eligible family members and non-emergency personnel in designated areas of Honshu, Japan as a prudent precaution. Operation Tomodachi continues relief efforts Photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew A. Denny Marines of III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), helped the Japan Air Self-Defense Force clear debris from the tsunami on the flightline at Sendai Airport, Japan, March 22. Flightlines throughout Japan are crucial to transportation of humanitarian assistance supplies for Operation Tomodachi. Photo by Cpl. Brandon Saunders okinawa marine | NEWS | March 25, 2011 Sea8 safety New sea condition standards begin April 1

Shawn Curtis mcbj deputy safety director

CAMP FOSTER — New sea condi- tion standards, scheduled to begin April 1, are expected to better as- sist water enthusiasts in making informed decisions when planning ocean water activities. The new standards were neces- sary as the current information and categories have been deemed too complex and confusing for beach- goers. Representatives from all four services on Okinawa worked collectively to develop new criteria using existing standards, the Beau- fort Wind Scale and knowledge from a variety of experts working in the fields of weather, safety and recreation. The most significant changes are modifications to the sea condition categories and their definitions. The definitions are intended to be short and easy to understand. The three new conditions will all have separate meanings that even the most novice swimmers can comprehend. New sea conditions will be ALL CLEAR, CAUTION and DANGER. ALL CLEAR conditions are ideal for water-related activities. This is the most suitable time for less- skilled swimmers and children to participate in aquatic activities. When condition CAUTION is in effect, hazardous conditions may exist. Therefore, personnel should exercise caution when entering the water. It is highly recommended that only individuals with ex- tensive experience - both for the planned water activity and entry point location - enter the water. If sea condition DANGER is announced, life-threatening con- ditions are occurring, and water entry is prohibited for all activities. Sea conditions will continue to be identified by two geographical sectors: East and West. The East represents Okinawa’s shoreline facing the Pacific Ocean from the northern tip of Hedo Point television as EC/WD. When condi- accurately reflect the weather and If there are any doubts, it’s best to to Cape Kiyan on the southern part tion ALL CLEAR is in effect, no sea state along the entire coastline stay on shore. of the island. sea condition abbreviations will be of Okinawa as weather and sea There are many other opportuni- The West sector includes the displayed on the television. state can change at a moment’s ties to participate in water activi- entire coastline exposed to the East It is important to note that notice. Therefore, personnel must ties throughout the year. Pushing China Sea from Hedo Point in the sea conditions are a good refer- use common sense to make indi- one’s luck by entering the water north to Cape Kiyan in the south. ence point when planning water vidual assessments of the hazards during potentially dangerous sea When displayed on AFN, the activities; however, personnel of their intended activity during conditions is a decision with far- new sea conditions will be abbrevi- should also monitor local weather sea conditions ALL CLEAR and reaching consequences. ated as “C” for CAUTION and “D” and ocean conditions as they can CAUTION. To review the new sea condition for DANGER along with “E” for East change with little warning. Indicators that an area may not information visit the Marine Corps and “W” for West. For example, sea Sea conditions and criteria are be ideal for water entry include Base Camp Butler Web page at condition East CAUTION and West based on a generalized evaluation. the presence of currents, large surf www.marines.mil/unit/mcbbutler/ DANGER will be displayed on the The evaluation may not always and difficult entry and exit routes. Pages/SeaConditions.aspx. okinawa marine | FEATURE | March 25, 2011 Long weekend for contestant9 Military family recounts earthquake experience

Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland As the shaking grew stronger, okinawa marine staff so did terror among the crowd, said Cara. s the Japanese soil heaved “Women and children were relentlessly beneath screaming and crying, and some Aher and skyscrapers people were just standing in swayed menacingly above, Cara awe, while others recorded the Underwood realized that this scene,” said Cara. “Images of the earthquake was nothing like the Haiti earthquake came flooding ones she had experienced while through my mind, and for a mo- growing up in San Diego. Amid ment, I thought we were all going the chaos and terrified screams, to die right there in the street.” she clutched her family tight and The massive earthquake, thought, “This is it.” which registered at a magnitude of 9.0, lasted for more than two Spell Champion minutes. Anthony Smith-Underwood was beyond ecstatic. After studying Aftermath all year and winning first place Once the shaking stopped, the in the Bechtel Elementary School Underwoods, sensing impending Spelling Bee on Camp McTure- havoc, immediately hailed a cab ous, he was on his way to Tokyo to and headed back to their hotel. compete in the 2011 Japan Times “My only concern was getting Spelling Bee. my wife and son to safety,” said The road hadn’t been easy. Gunnery Sgt. Carlos Underwood, “The word list we had to study staff noncommissioned officer-in- had more than 1,000 words,” said charge of northern camps, Facili- Underwood, 10, a fifth-grader at ties Engineers, Headquarters and Bechtel. “I wrote all of them five Service Battalion, Marine Corps times each and my parents tested Base Camp Smedley D. Butler. “I me every day before bed. It was a knew it was important to get my lot of hard work, but it was worth family back to the hotel before it.” transportation was impossible.” Underwood set out for Tokyo As the taxi snaked through the with his mother and father March congested streets, firefighters, po- 10, fully expecting to have the time licemen and other rescue person- of his life. None of them had any nel scrambled to assess the damage idea what events lay in store. and help those in need. As soon as the family walked Earthquake into the lobby of their hotel, a crip- With their belongings safely pling aftershock struck, turning stowed away at the New Sanno them right back around into the Cara Underwood, left, Anthony Smith-Underwood, 10 a fifth-grade student Hotel in Minato-Ku, Tokyo, the street. at Bechtel Elementary School, and Gunnery Sgt. Carlos Underwood, staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge of northern camps, Facilities Engineers, Underwoods took to the streets “After the first aftershock, they Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. for some sightseeing March 11. just kept on coming. Most of the Butler, pose with Anthony’s trophy and award letter after he won first place in After exploring downtown guests ended up just staying in the a schoolwide spelling bee. As the winner, the fifth-grader qualified to compete Roppongi and eating a hearty lobby because we had to run out to in the 2011 Japan Times Spelling Bee in Tokyo. He and his family were on meal at a café, the family de- the street every few minutes,” said mainland Japan to attend the spelling bee when a 9.0 magnitude earthquake cided to head back to the hotel so Cara. “As night fell, more guests hit followed by a devastating tsunami. Photo provided by Cara Underwood Anthony could study before the arrived saying they’d had to walk competition the next day. because of the trains and buses until Sunday morning because we to attend the spelling bee whenev- Halfway down the escalator shutting down. One man even couldn’t find a way to the airport,” er it is rescheduled. “Everyone at leading to the subway, the earth bought a bicycle on the street from said Cara. “Since our departure school has been asking me about began to shake. a local resident so he could get date was Sunday anyway, we just what it was like actually being “We noticed the escalator back.” hoped we’d be able to fly out.” there.” shaking, and it got stronger and The Underwoods spent the night After arriving at the Haneda The Underwoods know they stronger,” said Cara. “An alert clustered on a lobby couch, won- International Airport and enduring were fortunate to get out when they message came on over the inter- dering what the next day would seemingly endless lines of passen- did. Although her family is out of com in Japanese, and people im- bring. gers hoping to escape the turmoil, harm’s way, her heart remains on mediately started running for the the Underwoods boarded a flight mainland with those who weren’t stairs. We were already following Heading Home back to Okinawa at 4 p.m. so lucky, said Cara. the crowd when the translation The next morning, the family Once the family was back on “My heart aches for the people sounded– ‘Evacuate the subway learned about the devastating tsu- Okinawa and the anxiety of getting of Japan. Their lives are right there immediately.’” nami that followed the quake. They to safety quelled, they had time to in the disaster,” she said. “We were The tremors steadily increased spent most of that day trying to process and reflect on the week- lucky to have a home away from as the Underwoods ran into the gather information and construct a end’s events. the destruction to go to. I can’t street along with countless others plan of action. “I feel lucky that we survived,” imagine their loss, having nowhere searching for safety. “We ended up having to wait said Anthony, who said he plans else to go.” okinawa marine | FEATURE | March 25, 2011

Marine10 creates opportunity to help tsunami victims

Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher donated by March 18, he The operational tempo okinawa marine staff said. That’s more than of her unit has increased $4,000 worth of goods, as Marines are being sent ance Cpl. Yamile and the donations are to mainland in support Brito is proving still coming in, he added. of the humanitarian Lthe truth of former The response has been assistance and disaster President John F. Ken- unbelievable, Brito said. relief efforts there. And nedy’s statement that In addition to canned the canned food drive “One person can make a food, people have also is consuming more of difference, and everyone donated diapers, hygiene Brito’s off duty hours. should try.” items, boxes of rice and But, all the extra work Brito, a Marine with other foods, she said. is worth it for the peace Headquarters Battalion, After the Kadena of mind it has given her, 3rd Marine Division, III Youth Center announced she said. Marine Expeditionary March 15 it could no “I needed – for me – to Grocery carts at the Camp Courtney commissary quickly Force, is the driving force longer accept donations be OK with not being filled March 18 as costumers donated canned foods and other behind a food drive at the items for the victims of the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and due to space issues, there. I needed to do Camp Courtney commis- tsunami which struck mainland Japan March 11. “people also began donat- something,” Brito said. sary for victims of the 9.0 Photo courtesy of Michael E. Shannon ing blankets and (other) She said she thinks magnitude earthquake stuff,” she added. others felt that way as and subsequent tsunami “He suggested I do a willing to give time out She and her assistants well, as evidenced by which struck mainland canned food drive,” said of an already busy sched- have been collecting the donations she has Japan March 11. Brito, from New York ule to spearhead this the donations from the received. Following the disaster, City. effort but that he admires commissary and boxing For some, “this is the Brito said she knew she Perry, of Natchitoches, Brito and the Marines them up for shipment to only opportunity we needed to help. La., said he got the idea helping her for what they mainland. have to make a differ- Reading the news for a food drive based are doing. ence. It could have been reports of the devasta- on what people in New Brito and Holling- us but it wasn’t, and tion in mainland Japan Orleans needed following sworth remind Shannon there are thousands of affected her deeply, said the devastation of Hur- of his daughter who is people that will really Brito. One article she saw ricane Katrina in 2005. about the same age, and appreciate the help,” she hit her particularly hard, While he wasn’t in Loui- he found it heartening to said. she added. The article siana for the hurricane, see them start this kind Brito said she hopes to detailed the experience of he has clear memories of of effort to help others, continue the food drive a Japanese man who had the devastation and the he said. throughout March and been in the water for four shortfalls following the Shannon said he was then reassess to see if days and saw his wife die natural disaster, he said. also amazed by the gen- there is still a need be- in the tsunami. “I knew Katrina vic- erosity of the people in fore continuing the “It made me feel hor- tims, and I knew what Camp Courtney’s mili- food drive in rible, terrible,” she said, they needed when they tary community. April. admitting she’s come were in shelters,” he said. “We were over- close to tears several Brito said she has whelmed at the response times reading some of the never coordinated a food of our customers,” Shan- articles and seeing the drive or done anything non said. images of destruction. like this before, but she More than 15 gro- The news stories and jumped on the idea and cery carts of food and photographs burned into brought in Perry and an- other items were her memory also created other friend, Lance Cpl. in her a strong desire to Erin Hollingsworth, from provide some kind of aid New Virginia, Iowa, to to those in need, she said. help. By March 12, Brito “Half the platoon left had contacted the Camp that weekend, and I was Courtney commissary for really frustrated because approval to place dona- I wanted to go with tion boxes in the com- them,” she said. “I kept missary entrance. thinking that there has Michael E. Shannon, to be something I can do, Camp Courtney com- there has to be something missary’s store admin- I can do.” istrator, said he gave the Brito told her fiancé go-ahead and by the next Lance Cpl. Cameron day, she had donation Perry, also with Head- boxes in place requesting quarters Bn., 3rd MarDiv., canned food for main- that she was disappointed land victims. at being on Okinawa and Shannon said he was unable to help. surprised someone was Lance Cpl. Yamile Brito is surrounded by the food donations from a food drive she coordinated at the Camp Courtney commissary. Brito said she started the food drive because she wanted to help the Japanese victims of the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck mainland Japan March 11. The food drive at the Camp Courtney commissary is scheduled to continue through March. Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Cindy Fisher okinawa marine | MARKETPLACE | March 25, 2011 March 25 - march 31 In Theaters Now 11 Foster Hansen Kadena schwab today Mars Needs Moms (PG), 6 p.m.; Hall TODAY The Rite (PG13), 6 p.m.; The Green TODAY The Green Hornet (PG13), 6 p.m.; The TODAY Little Fockers (PG13), 7 p.m. Pass (R), 9 p.m. Hornet (PG13), 9 p.m. Rite (PG13), 9 p.m. Saturday Country Strong (PG13), 5 p.m. saturday Gulliver’s Travels (PG), noon; The Saturday The Green Hornet (PG13), 6 p.m., Saturday Mars Needs Moms (PG), noon, 3 sunday True Grit (PG13), 5 p.m. Green Hornet (PG13), 3 p.m.; Hall Pass (R), 6 The Rite (PG13), 9 p.m. and 6 p.m.; The Rite (PG13), 9 p.m. monday-Thursday Closed and 9 p.m. sunday The Green Hornet (PG13), 2 p.m., The SUndaY Mars Needs Moms (PG), 1 and 4 SUNDay Gulliver’s Travels (PG), noon; Country Rite (PG13), 5:30 p.m. p.m.; The Green Hornet (PG13), 7 p.m. Strong (PG13), 4 p.m.; Paul (R), 7 p.m. monday Paul (R), 7 p.m. monday The Green Hornet (PG13), 7 p.m. monday Hall Pass (R), 7 p.m. tuesday Paul (R), 7 p.m. Tuesday The Rite (PG13), 7 p.m. Theater DIRECTORY TUEsday The Rite (PG13), 7 p.m. Wednesday The Rite (PG13), 7 p.m. Wednesday Rango (PG), 7 p.m. CAMP FOSTER 645-3465 wednesday The Fighter (R), 7 p.m. thursday The Green Hornet (PG13), 7 p.m. thursday Rango (PG), 7 p.m. thursday Paul (R), 7 p.m. Kadena air base 634-1869 (USO Night) 632-8781 kinser mcas futenma 636-3890 courtney (USO NIGHT) 636-2113 Futenma TODAY The Rite (PG13), 6:30 p.m. CAMP COURTNEY 622-9616 TODAY Paul (R), 6 and 9 p.m. TODAY True Grit (PG13), 6:30 p.m. saturday The Green Hornet (PG13), 3 and Saturday True Grit (PG13), 2 p.m.; Country CAMP HANSEN 623-4564 Saturday Paul (R), 4 and 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. Strong (PG13), 6 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 623-5011 sunday Country Strong (PG13), 4 p.m.; True SUNDAY The Rite (PG13), 3 and 6:30 p.m. sunday Rango (PG), 2 and 6 p.m. CAMP KINSER 637-2177 Grit (PG13), 7 p.m. monday Closed Monday Country Strong (PG13), 7 p.m. monday Big Mamas: Like Father, Like Son tuesday Closed Camp Schwab 625-2333 tuesday Closed (PG13), 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Paul (R), 3 and 6:30 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 625-3834 wednesday Mars Needs Moms (PG), 7 p.m. tuesday Closed thursday The Green Hornet (PG13), 6:30 p.m. thursday Closed wednesday Closed Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a thursday Closed complete listing, visit www.shopmyexchange.com.

Single marine ChapEL SCHEDULE Camp Foster | 645-7486 Camp McTureous | 622-9350 program events • Catholic: Mon-Fri, 11:45 a.m.; • Gospel: Sun, 12:30 p.m. Sat, 5 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m. For more information, or to • Christian Science: Sun, 11 a.m., Bldg. 442 Camp Kinser | 637-1148 sign up, contact the Single • Eastern Orthodox: Divine Liturgy, Sun, • Catholic: Sun, noon 9:30 a.m.; Vespers, Sat, 5 p.m. • Protestant: Sun, 9 a.m. Marine Program at 645-3681. • Gospel: Sun, 11:30 a.m.; 2nd, 3rd Sun, Children’s Church, 11 a.m. Camp Courtney | 622-9350 • Jewish: (Informal) 1st, 3rd Fri, 6:30 p.m. • Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m., Mon, Tues, SMP All Camps Meeting - April 1 • Latter Day Saints: Mon, 6:30 p.m. Thurs, Fri, 11:30 a.m. • Location: Camp Foster Community Center April 1 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. • Muslim: Prayer, Fri, 12:45 p.m. • Protestant: Sun, 10:45 a.m. • Protestant: Sun, 8:30 a.m. Women’s Symposium - April 5 • Women service members at Camp Foster are invited to listen to guest • Seventh Day Adventist: Sat, 9:30 a.m., Kadena Air Base | 634-1288 speaker, Koren Zailckas, New York Times bestselling author, at the Camp at Torii Station 644-5701/644-4281 www.kadenachapel.org Foster Community Center, April 5 from 8 a.m.-noon. The Single Marine • Catholic: Sun, 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Program will be hosting a panel discussion on military life in Okinawa. Camp Schwab | 622-9350 Sun, 11:45 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1; • Catholic: Sun, 5:30 p.m. Sun, 4 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1; Annual Sexual Assault Awareness Luncheon - April 6 • The Annual Sexual Assault Awareness luncheon is open to all at the Camp • Protestant: Sun, 4 p.m. Daily Mass, Mon-Fri, 11:30 a.m., Chapel 1 Butler Officer’s Club from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Listen to guest speaker Koren Reconciliation, Sun, 3:15 p.m., Chapel 1 Zailckas, New York Times bestselling author of the book, “Smashed: Story of Camp Lester | 643-7248 • Contemporary: Sun, 10 a.m., Chapel 1 a Drunken Girlhood.” Tickets are available from the Command Sexual Assault • Catholic: Sun, 8 a.m. • Gospel: Sun, 10:30 a.m., Chapel 3 Response Coordinator. • Non-Denominational: Sun, 9 a.m., • Protestant Bible Institute: Tues, 6 p.m., Hospital Chapel; Sun, 10 a.m., Lester Chapel 1 Volunteer opportunities: • Zukeran Elementary Multicultural Day: Volunteer to set up and help Chapel • Traditional: Sun, 9:30 a.m., Chapel 2 with a game or craft, run a computer a lab, serve students and staff lunch • Wiccan/Pagan: Sat, 2 p.m., Bldg. 856 from a buffet April 1 from 7:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. Volunteers may wear appropriate Camp Hansen | 622-9350 civilian attire. Lunch will be provided. • Catholic: Sun, 10 a.m., East Chapel MCAS Futenma | 636-3058 • Latter Day Saints: Wed, 6:30 p.m., Library • Catholic: Sun, noon • Month of the Military Child: Volunteer to assist with the opening and closing ceremonies of the Month of the Military Child April 1 from 8 a.m.-noon • Protestant: Sun, 11 a.m., West Chapel • Contemporary: Fri, 7 p.m.; Sun, 9 a.m. and April 22 from 1-5 p.m. at the Camp Foster Child Development Center. for upcoming special worship services and events for all marine corps base chapels • Jump for Autism: Volunteer to work with children inside a bounce house visit: www.marines.mil/unit/mcbjapan/pages/aroundmcbj/chapel.aspx April 2 from 6:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. at the Foster Field House. Mention of any company in this notice does not constitute endorsement by the Marine Corps. March 21 - March 25 Rifle Range Sgt. Malachi J. Even, III Marine Japanese phrase of the week: Expeditionary Force Special Operations and Training “Oyasumi nasai” Group, 337 (pronounced O-ya-su-mi na-sai) Pistol Range It is the respectful form of “Good night” No Detail (Oyasumi is good night, nasai makes it formal) okinawa marine | SPORTS | March 25, 2011

Miguel T. Bridges attempts a layup as Robert Caldwell defends his shot during 12the Hansen 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament March 16. Bridges is a part of the MID Crew who were victorious over the MHG Old School, edging them out by three points for a final score of 21-18.

Making ithappen Story and photo by Lance Cpl. Anthony Ward Jr. okinawa marine staff

Leadership supports intramural league

he Hansen 3-on-3 Basketball League also be rescheduled due to operational commitments. kicked off at the Camp Hansen House “When they’re here, they have great competition,” Tof Pain gym March 16. said Godown. This is an intramural league in which The league’s establishment was something the Ma- units assemble teams to compete against rines of Camp Hansen wanted, said Robert Caldwell, a each other. Marine Corps Community Services and the member of MHG Old School team. Camp Hansen House of Pain will hold league games “Marines asked for intramural sports,” said Caldwell, Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for the next 5 weeks with the last adding the senior leadership then made it happen. week dedicated to a double elimination tournament “The intramural sports leagues came about when among the top teams. a group of Marines attending our Town Hall meeting “Game play will be a round robin tournament where requested additional sporting events aboard Hansen,” everybody plays everybody,” said Douglas Godown, said Jencura. “The camp responded by organizing an sports specialist for the House of Pain, adding all eight MCCS quarterly intramural sports league. teams entered will face each other at some point. “A camp trophy will be kept on display at the camp Setting up the league “took several months of prepa- headquarters building with the winning team from ration,” Godown said. each league inscribed on it. Individual awards will be The league’s first game March 16 kicked off with given to competitors,” he said. MID Crew, mostly Marines from 9th Engineer Sup- “These events are designed to build unit cohesion, port Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine camaraderie and esprit de corps,” said Jencura. “They’re Expeditionary Force, taking on the MHG Old School, an easy way to satisfy that competitive hunger that all Marines from III MEF Headquarters Group, III MEF. of the Marines and sailors aboard Camp Hansen seem The lead switched hands until MID Crew began to to have.” pull away. Once the final buzzer rang, MID Crew was Camp Hansen’s House of Pain plans to hold future victorious over MHG Old School with a score of 21-18. sporting events such as a softball league in May, a This was the only game of the night due to opera- soccer league in August and a flag football league in tional commitments for Operation Tomodachi, said October. Godown adding other games in following weeks may For more information, call 623-4831.