iii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

august 13, 2010 www.okinawa.usmc.mil

WikiLeaks SEE STORY AND PHOTOS ON PAGES 6-7 Mojave Viper website not culminating exercise tests authorized Cpl. Shelby R. Shields capabilities okinawa marine staff Cpl. Paul D. Zellner II combat correspondent combat logistics battalion 3 CAMP FOSTER — Many people have heard of the website WikiLe- MARINE CORPS AIR-GROUND COM- aks, a document sharing website BAT CENTER TWENTYNINE PALMS, where anyone can contribute Calif. — Marines and sailors from leaks of sensitive governmental, Combat Logistics Battalion 3 (rein- corporate, organizational, or re- forced), Combat Logistics Regiment 3, ligious documents anonymously. 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Its recent increase in popularity Expeditionary Force participated in may be contributed in large part the culminating Mission Rehearsal to the recent “leak” of classified Exercise, July 31-Aug. 5, to finish their documents from Afghanistan. Enhanced Mojave Viper pre-deployment Despite the fact that the infor- training here. mation is now available to the The exercise was designed to simu- general public, the information late CLB-3’s mission while deployed, is still classified. According to which is to provide direct tactical logis- Executive Order 13526, section tics support to deployed units beyond 1.1, paragraph 4, sub-section C, their organic capabilities in the areas of “classified information shall not transportation, intermediate level sup- be declassified automatically ply, field level maintenance, and general as a result of any unauthorized engineering. disclosure of identical or similar The mission during the MRX in- information.” cluded setting up a forward Combat Lo- “We’re just trying to get the gistics Support Area in order to provide word out to everyone and prevent responsive combat service support to service members from ruining 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, undergoing their careers over this,” said Mi- their own pre-deployment training. chael Miglionico, the information “The MRX incorporates all the skills assurance manager, Marine Corps we learned at EMV 5-10 into a real-world Bases Japan. “Luckily so far we’ve Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Masters Course students perform scenario allowing the battalion to prac- had no reported incidences.” Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction from a CH-46E Sea Knight during a HRST tice command and control and combat see WIKILEAKS pg  Masters Course at the Central Training Area Aug. 5. Photo by Lance Cpl. J Nava logistics patrol skills,” said Maj. Jason M. Eby, operations officer for CLB-3. “It’s designed to push command and control forward and integrate battalion capa- Marines get hands-on CBRN training bilities in support of the ’s scheme of maneuver.” Cpl. Kelly R. Stevens A group of CBRN defense specialists from Head- Other than setting up the CLSA, the okinawa marine staff quarters Battalion, , III Marine battalion also provided convoy logistics Expeditionary Force, provided a Monitor, Survey support while utilizing their previous CAMP COURTNEY — Chemical, biological, ra- and Decontamination course to 14 Marines Aug. 5 training in improvised explosive device diological and nuclear agents can be extremely at Camp Courtney. detection, reacting to ambushes, and dangerous and are not always readily noticeable. “This course teaches Marines the proper proce- utilizing crew-served weapons among Because of this, it is increasingly important that dures for reconnaissance and surveying areas of other military occupation specialty Marines are trained in recognizing, monitoring, possible contamination as well as the correct ways skills. and decontaminating these agents. see GAS pg  see ENDEX pg 

DANGEROUS EXPOSURE INTO THE JUNGLE It’s everywhere and exposure can leave its Marines with 9th ESB learn jungle mark with irreversible damage. Understand the warfare skills at the JWTC this this dangers of UV rays and take precautions. endurance course. issue

in in PG. 4 PG. 9  okinawa marine | OPINION & EDITORIAL | august 13, 2010

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS MARINE CORPS BASES JAPAN CAMP SMEDLEY D. BUTLER, OKINAWA UNIT 35001 FPO AP 96373-5001 Safety is everyone’s business Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri We Marines, fellow U.S. servicemen and women, DoD civilians, and family members s many Marines will know, six years strive to be good neighbors, and one of the ago on August 13, 2004, one of our best ways we can do that is to be safe in every- Ahelicopters crashed into the grounds thing we do, whether it is training with our of a university near Futenma Air Station. units, driving to a local restaurant or festival, U.S. Marine Corps History Division Fortunately, no one in the lo- snorkeling with friends, or performing main- editorial cal community was injured, tenance on one of our vehicles or aircraft. August 13, 2005 – Marines and Af- although there was substantial property Safety, in other words, is an integral part ghan troops launched an offensive in damage to the school and neighboring of everything we do, both on and off-duty. the remote Afghanistan Korengal Val- homes and businesses, and three of our own Implementing risk-management into all of ley. The operation was aimed at rebels Marines were badly hurt. our activities, and ensuring our families believed to have killed 19 U.S. troops We subsequently learned there was a and work places do so as well, is essential to in June 2005 hiding out in the east- maintenance problem that led to the crash ensuring personal well-being and mission ern Kunar province near the Pakistani and we explained the results of our findings success. It is the duty of each supervisor border. to the public. and leader, as well as parent and guardian, The sixth anniversary this year of the to provide those under their charge and August 14, 1945 – President Truman crash represents a good opportunity to care with the tools and skills necessary to announced that a cease fire with Japan reflect on the importance of safety in our protect themselves. was in effect and the war had ended. daily activities, both in the work place and Safety is a force multiplier and also repre- in our personal lives. We need to be aware sents how seriously we take our responsibil- August 16, 1950 – EUSAK X Corps that the failure to follow proper safety pre- ities as members of the community here in activated for coming Inchon-Seoul cautions and maintenance procedures not Okinawa. Remember, safety doesn’t cost—it operation. Principal elements are 1st only affects us individually but also those pays. Indeed, safety is everyone’s business. Marine Division and Army 7th Infantry around us—our co-workers, loved ones, and Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri is the command- Division. neighboring communities here in Okinawa. ing general of Marine Corps Base Camp Accepting anything less cannot be tolerated. Smedley D. Butler. August 17, 1942 – Just prior to dawn, the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion under Lt. Col. Evans F. Carlson landed on Makin Island from the submarines Nautilus and Argonaut. The next day the Marines left the island after destroying a seaplane base, two radio stations, and a supply warehouse.

August 18, 2003 – Assistant Com- mandant of the Marine Corps Gen. William Nyland visited Djibouti to congratulate Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa personnel on a job well done.

August 19, 2008 – The civilian trial for former Marine Sgt. Jose Nazario, Jr., in the death of unarmed Iraqi de- tainees in Fallujah, Iraq, in November 2004, began. The trial marked the first time a civilian jury determined wheth- er the legal actions of a former service member in combat violated the law of war. Nazario was acquitted Aug. 28, 2008.

Commanding General Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri okinawa marine newspaper H&S Battalion MCB PAO Unit 35002 public affairs Director Lt. Col. David M. Griesmer 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 Officer 2nd Lt. Lindsay M. Pirek Central Bureau Okinawa, Japan. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, Camp Foster 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, dated Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler. marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor DSN 645-7422 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 Press Chief Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. 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 northern Bureau haSend YveOUR OPINION to okin awAamarine.mcbb [email protected] 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.” DESIGN editor Audra A. Satterlee The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supple- For more information, e-mail us at [email protected] or write to us DSN 623-4224 Okinawa Marine reserves the right to choose material and edit as necessary. 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. okinawa marine | NEWS | august 13, 2010  AAFES improves quality of life on Futenma Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate who are required to work okinawa marine staff night shifts found several complications with trans- MARINE CORPS AIR STA- portation and refueling of TION FUTENMA — Senior their vehicles; and, accord- leaders from Marine Corps ing to Robinson, it is more Air Station Futenma have expensive to purchase fuel been taking steps to better at off-base stations. the quality of life of their However, the 24-hour gas Marines. The most recent station is not the only im- improvement took place July provement that has been 30 as Futenma’s senior lead- completed on the air station. ers gathered at the gas station “Within the past few to simply announce a change months, with the help of to the gas station’s hours. Marine Corps Community The gas station and car wash Services and AAFES, several are now available 24-hours projects are either in progress a day. or have been completed,” said “After several months of Robinson. planning and evaluation, we Other improvements in- finally got the opportunity clude a new Marine Corps Marine Corps Air Station Futenma’s gas station is now open around the clock. Army and Air Force to be the first Marine Corps Martial Arts Program room Exchange Service representatives and MCAS leadership meet to announce the recent extension installation on Okinawa to at McCutcheon Gym, the of the gas station’s business hours. Photo by Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate have a 24-hour gas station,” replacement of the basket- said Sgt. Maj. Timothius M. ball courts and bleachers at “The quality of life for the as the air station’s sergeant cer. “We are going to continue Robinson, sergeant major, Semper Fit Gym, and reno- Marines on MCAS Futenma major is to ensure the en- to push to improve the qual- MCAS Futenma. “In ad- vations to the concessions has to be a priority at every tire population of MCAS ity of life and the working dition, our self-serve car strip mall. level because our Marines Futenma understands that conditions aboard Futenma. wash is also now a 24-hour “We have to continue to and sailors are the most pre- the commanding officer and This is our vision.” facility.” strive to make this a vibrant cious asset,” said Robinson. his staff are ensuring that “You can count on the According to Robinson, location for our Marines, sail- “And, if we fail to take care of quality of life issues are high leadership here at MCAS the driving force behind ors and civilian work force them, then we have missed on their list of priorities. Futenma to continue to strive changing the hours was the that keep this station moving the real reason for even be- “Futenma is alive and to make Futenma the best voice of his Marines. forward on a daily basis,” said ing here.” well,” said Col. Dale M. Smith, MCAS that we can make it,” Marines on the air station Robinson. One of Robinson’s goals Futenma’s commanding offi- said Robinson. Students currently enroll for fall EWS/CSC seminars 2nd Lt. Lindsay Pirek “The course is designed to challenge the CSCDEP is an eight course intermediate okinawa marine press officer students from an intellectual standpoint while level school, spanning two academic years, providing academic content that is relevant to which satisfies both Marine Corps PME and CAMP FOSTER — Enrollment for academic developing them for positions at the company- Joint PME I requirements. The program is a year 2011 at the College of Distance Education and field-grade levels. Conducting the classes PME obligation for the ranks of major and and Training, formerly known as the College of in a seminar setting further allows the students CWO4. The ranks of captain and CWO3 who Continuing Education, is now open. to closely interact with individuals from other have completed EWS are also eligible, as well “The academic year begins Sept. 27 and ends MOSs and services. The ability to discuss and as master sergeant/first sergeant and above the first of June. Classes are once a week, in debate issues within a group of such diverse who have completed EWS and have the ap- the evening from 6-8 p.m., typically. They are backgrounds and experiences significantly propriate waivers. on every base. The office on Camp Foster man- enhances the learning environment for the “An important change to the Command and ages students from Korea, Iwakuni, Fuji, six students,” said William Hardy, former instruc- Staff program is a linkage to a Master’s degree bases and camps on Okinawa, and people who tor at the CDET. program with the University of Oklahoma. are deployed from this region to Afghanistan “This is the very first year that we are offer- When the Marine completes Command and and Iraq,” explained James Hopkins, regional ing EWS online, and it’s the first year program. Staff, they can go online and take six courses coordinator, Okinawa Region, Training and Next year, both the first year and second year and get a Master’s degree,” said Hopkins. Education Command, CDET. will be offered online. We are reserving online “Officer PME is essential to the growth The College of Distance Education offers spots for those Marines who cannot make it to and development of our officer corps. Marine two seminar programs: Expeditionary Warfare onsite seminars. We are going to be selective and Corps formal schools do a good job providing School Distance Education Program and Com- the online version is only going to be offered to the knowledge and skills necessary for MOS mand and Staff College Distance Education captains and other ranks who simply cannot be proficiency. Likewise, the less tangible aspects Program. present in the classroom,” explained Hopkins of leadership, command and staff functions The EWSDEP is a seven course career level of those Marines deployed to Afghanistan and must be taught emphasizing what is neces- school that is designed to be completed over extended exercises in the Asia-Pacific region. sary and important at each stage in a Marine’s two academic years. The program is a profes- “Distance education is very accommodating. career. The EWS and CSC focus on these sional military education obligation for the It’s accommodating for the instructors, who are critical areas. For those members of the officer ranks of captain and chief warrant officer three; 99% active duty here and it’s accommodating population who do not have the opportunity to however, first lieutenants and CWO2s are also for Marines on temporary assigned duty. For attend the resident schools, the CDET provides eligible to participate. Interested staff noncom- example, when someone goes to (support Exer- a similar academic and intellectual learning missioned officers, gunnery sergeant and above, cise) Cobra Gold, they can drop the course and experience,” said Hardy. may participate providing they have completed pick up the next one, or they can do make-ups. To enroll, contact the CDET at 645-2230 or all required enlisted PME and obtain a waiver The policy limits a Marine to three missed e-mail Jim Hopkins, Regional Coordinator, at from the CDET director and the sergeant major seminars per course, or they can switch to an [email protected], or Brenda Burke, Admin- of Marine Corps University. online course,” said Hopkins. istrative assistant, at [email protected].  okinawa marine | NEWS | august 13, 2010

briefs

Foster Power outages Camp Foster will have all day power Responsible networking outages covering portions of the camp. The outages will affect Plaza Housing, the north- ern end of Kishaba Housing, Sada Housing, North Foster Towers, operational/support Social networking responsibly is benefit areas west of the “Spot,” Fort Buckner and Futenma Housing as follows: Lance Cpl. Matheus J. Hernandez security and mission effective- ability of social networking.” Aug. 14 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. (not affecting okinawa marine staff ness would not be sacrificed by According to the MarAdmin, the “Spot” operational/support areas) providing access to these social all users of the MCEN will be Aug. 28 from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. CAMP FOSTER — Many Ma- networking sites on the MCEN. able to use social networking Sept. 11 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. rines have realized that social Marine Administrative Mes- sites such as video sharing sites Sept. 25 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. networking through the internet sage 181/10 explains the impor- and personal, Internet-based e- For more information, call Camp Foster via Facebook, Twitter, MySpace tance of social networking sites mails, as long as they are used and Lester Camp Services at 645-0883. and other social networking sites in relation to the Marine Corps responsibly. is now accessible on the Marine and advocates the use of them for “Certain information or im- Joint service sports physicals recruiting and official accounts ages posted on social networking U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa and the Corps Enterprise Network. 18th Medical Group will offer walk-in sports “The Marine Corps under- for general news and public in- websites can be detrimental to physicals at the Kadena Medical Group stands and embraces Internet- formation. the Marine Corps’ image,” Mi- Clinic, Aug. 21 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for based capabilities,” said Maj. Social networking can be glionico explained. “Users should children 6-17 years old eligible for care at Gen. George J. Allen, director of a morale booster for Marines, be aware that what they post on military medical facilities in Okinawa. Command, Control, Communi- especially those overseas, said their personal websites about the Students need to bring all necessary forms cations and Computers and the Michael Miglionico, the Informa- Marine Corps, or things done for each sports activity, wear athletic gear Chief Information Officer of the tion Assurance manager, Marine while on duty, can misrepresent and be accompanied by a guardian. Marine Corps, in an official state- Corps Bases, Japan. Networking the Marine Corps as a whole.” For details, contact the Lester Family ment. “We can collaborate and keeps the Marines, as well as the Those who don’t follow the Medicine Clinic at 643-7517, Kadena Family enhance our business processes, families back home, informed on guidance of the MarAdmin and Practice at 630-4060 or Kadena Pediatrics how everyone is doing. engage in inappropriate personal at 630-4542. and also provide a level of morale for our force that has never been “But we have to maintain online activity, may be violating DBIDS Registration on Kadena seen before.” a balance between security federal law, regulations or poli- All active-duty military, family members, After the completion of a study and convenience for everyone cies and are subject to disciplin- Department of Defense civilians, Master La- by Headquarters Marine Corps, it involved,” said Miglionico. “Re- ary action under the Uniform bor Contractors, Indirect Hire Employees, was determined that operational sponsibility is key to the avail- Code of Military Justice. local national contractors and retirees must register for the Defense Biometric Identifica- tion System at Kadena in order to continue accessing Kadena Air Base. All DoD identi- fication card holders must be fingerprinted Sun exposure can be hazardous and registered in person. Individuals can go to Pass and ID at the Kadena Gate 1 Visitors’ Center from 7 a.m. Lance Cpl. J Nava be reapplied sooner after getting wet or sweating to 10 p.m. for registration. okinawa marine staff heavily, and after toweling off.” Throughout August, individuals may Clinton also suggests using sunscreen that pro- register at the Keystone Theater Aug. 26, 27, CAMP FOSTER — From sunbathing and beach tects against both Ultraviolet-A and Ultraviolet-B 30 and 31 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can parties to cookouts and outdoor recreation, sum- rays because these sunscreens usually contain also register at the Schilling Community mertime on Okinawa offers outdoor options for ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or Center Aug. 16, 18, 20, 23 and 25 from 7 service members. Although fun in the sun is entic- avobenzone. a.m. to 9 p.m. ing, there are some dangers associated with sun UV protective clothing is another way to pre- From September to March people can exposure which are important to understand. vent sunburns and skin disease. It is specifically register at the Keystone Theater between 8 According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more designed to protect against the sun’s rays. a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diag- “You should try to keep as much of your body For more details, call 634-3437 or e-mail [email protected]. nosed annually. Although prolonged exposure to covered as possible,” Thomas said. the sun won’t always result in cancer, the sun’s Another way to prevent skin ailments is to HAPPILY EVER AFTER: quarterly ultraviolet rays can cause other skin problems. stay out of direct sunlight. Beach patrons and 1-day marriage-building workshop “Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause pain- outdoorsmen should stay in the shade as much Marine Corps Family Team Building will ful sunburns,” said Cmdr. Tony Clinton, Derma- as possible. conduct a quarterly one-day marriage-build- tologist, U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa. “About 90 “The sun’s rays are at their worst from 10 a.m. ing workshop Aug. 20. The workshop will percent of skin cancers are caused by UV light to 4 p.m.,” said Seaman Charlie Tucker, hospital be held at the Chapel Center building 445 on from the sun, as UV rays have been declared to be corpsman, 3rd Medical Battalion, Combat Logis- Camp Foster. Child care is provided. a known carcinogen. Also, repeated sun exposure tics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Registration is first come, first served over time will prematurely age your appearance Marine Expeditionary Force. “That time frame is through Aug. 17. Call 645-3041 or e-mail by causing the skin to be more spotty, wrinkled, when people should be the most cautious.” [email protected]. and leathery looking,” he added. Beach goers should also be cautious when GCSS-MC Training for 1st MAW Petty Officer 2nd Class Leonard Thomas, a near sand and water, as they reflect UV rays and Global Combat Support System-Marine hospital corpsman at Evans Medical Clinic, rec- increase the chance of sunburns. Corps training for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing ommends several protective measures to prevent Sunlight affects people in different ways based units is currently taking place through skin damage from the sun’s rays. on their skin type, meaning that different precau- Sept. 17 at multiple training sites across The first and most important of which, he says, tions must be taken by different people during the Okinawa. is sunscreen. same conditions, Tucker added. GCSS-MC is the replacement system “The higher the Sun Protection Factor, the bet- “You should be aware of your tolerance to the for SASSY and MIMMMS. To sign up for ter,” Thomas said. “Sunscreen should always be sun before going out,” he said. classes contact your unit training coordina- applied to any exposed areas when staying in the Checking your skin regularly is a good way to tor. Seating is limited. sun for a prolonged period of time.” spot skin ailments in their early stages. Although applying sunscreen may seem like an “Any change in size, shape, color or irregular TO SUBMIT A BRIEF, send an e-mail to easy task, it’s easy to apply it incorrectly. spots such as moles could be an indication of skin [email protected], or fax your request to 645-3803. The deadline for submitting “Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes cancer,” Tucker said. a brief is noon Friday. Okinawa Marine reserves before [exposure], and reapplied after every two For more information or tips and tricks on skin the right to edit all submitted material. hours of staying outside,” Clinton said. “It should care issues, contact your local clinic. okinawa marine | NEWS | august 13, 2010 

ENDEX from pg 1 outposts which were used to Before the final exercise conduct simulated forward began, each company prac- operations. ticed the skills they would “The GENEX was de- need for the MRX by taking signed to test our general part in separate exercises engineering skills as we and missions. built and improved upon a The motor transport CLSA, two combat outposts, companies took part in the two (quanset) huts, and a Combat Logistics Patrol modular protective building Exercise during which they all while providing force conducted logistics patrols protection,” said Master while taking simulated en- Sgt. David W. Dickens, op- emy fire and reacting to IED erations chief of Engineer detonations. Company, CLB-3. “Being “The CLPX is a live-fire able to do this in a tacti- event incorporating move- cal environment lets the ment,” said Capt. Everett Marines see what it takes Ledman, company com- to work successfully in this mander, Motor Transport type of environment and Company A, CLB-3. “It tests gives us the confidence to the (motor transport) pla- say we are prepared for the toons’ ability to react to sev- deployment.” eral situations at the same The other companies in Sgt. Maj. Angela Maness, battalion sergeant major for Combat Logistics Battalion 3 (reinforced), time, which is similar to the battalion provided direct Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, checks on the Marines as they provide security over the Combat Logistics Support Area, July 31 at The what they could experience support to both missions Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif. The Marines from Engineer in Afghanistan.” by conducting operational Company built the CLSA as a part of the General Engineering Exercise to prepare for the final As the CLPX was taking planning and embedding exercise. Photo by Cpl. Paul D. Zellner II place, the engineer com- individuals within the for- panies participated in the ward operating elements. logistics patrols significantly benefit and went a long way tics Group to Afghanistan. General Engineering Ex- “The use of role players tested our battalion’s train- towards preparing us for the The reinforced battalion ercise where they began embedded in the MRX sce- ing proficiency,” said Eby. upcoming deployment.” includes more than 400 Ma- construction of the CLSA nario, the challenging com- “The MRX coupled with the In the fall, CLB-3 rein- rines and sailors augmented and made construction im- mand and control issues, rest of our pre-deployment forced will deploy in sup- from Marine Corps bases provements to two combat and the long distance combat training has been a huge port of 1st Marine Logis- throughout Japan.

GAS from pg 1 WIKILEAKS from pg 1 to mark and monitor those areas,” said Pfc. Travis Viewing or downloading these Smith, one of the CBRN defense specialists. documents without the proper security According to Steve Bowman, a national defense clearance and authority can result in specialist, in his 2003 report to congress, U.S. intel- a variety of repercussions from non- ligence agencies have been reporting that terrorists judicial punishment to court martial, have and continue to search for substances and loss of clearance and denial of reen- methods to carry out chemical, biological, radiologi- listment. cal or nuclear agent attacks and it is increasingly “Many jobs require a clearance and important that the military be prepared for such if you lose that, you will have to be an attack. moved to another job, and you will It is recommended that at least 25% of the Ma- probably be denied re-enlistment,” rines in a unit be trained as a monitor and survey said Gunnery Sgt. Ruben Martinez, the or decontamination team member, said Sgt. Laurel information assurance chief for Marine Golley, a CBRN defense specialist. Corps Bases Japan. “Although we hope we’ll never have to use this In addition to the personal rami- training, it’s crucial that each unit has Marines fications, accessing WikiLeaks on a trained for CBRN operations in a combat environ- government computer, even out of ment,” Golley said. pure curiosity, creates what is called Marines who complete this week-long course “spillage,” Miglionico said. Cleaning up are given a large amount of information in a short “spillage” takes a lot of IA man hours period of time. In order to help the Marines retain and even more government money. this information, the course instructors test them While accessing the site from a each day and provide students with hands-on train- personal computer may seem harm- ing for all of the gear they will need to operate if a less, it is actually more detrimental to CBRN attack were to occur. a service member’s career. Accessing “The course is important because you really never WikiLeaks this way means there was know when you are going to be deployed, and you Lance Cpl. Max Diardio, telecommunications repairman an intent to seek out information that is with Communication Maintenance Division, Headquarters never know when you are going to be attacked,” above the persons clearance authority, Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary said Lance Cpl. Eric Kaiser, a student in the course Force, practices marking an area of chemical contamination and can often be a career ender. and a data network specialist with Headquarters during a Survey, Monitor and Decontamination course “Just one Marine not being able to Battalion, 3rd MarDiv. “We need to be able to keep aboard Camp Courtney Aug. 5. Photo by Cpl. Kelly R. Stevens do their job hurts the whole shop,” our people safe.” Martinez said. “All because one person During the course the Marines practiced hiking Smith. The confusion and chaos associated with an is curious.” to a location, marking a hazardous area, and de- attack can be disorienting; Marines need to practice “Just because it is on the Internet contaminating a vehicle while in Mission Oriented remaining calm and clear-headed in order to accom- does not mean it’s not classified,” said Protective Posture suits and gas masks. They also plish the mission when the time comes. Miglionico. conducted a MOPP gear exchange, which allows a “The one thing we want Marines to take away Despite the site’s high visibility on person to remove a contaminated suit and don a new from this course is that they need to be prepared the news, or your own curiosity, the one without becoming contaminated themselves. for anything,” said Golley. “One small mistake can information on WikiLeaks is still clas- It is important to train Marines in the proper make a huge difference in a CBRN environment. sified, and therefore cannot be viewed response to a CBRN attack before it occurs, said There is no room for error.” by unauthorized individuals. 6 okinawa marine | FEATURE | august 13, 2010 Service members master Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Story and photos by Lance Cpl. J Nava areas inaccessible to vehicles and Group. “When they complete this of rigging systems and 30 hours of okinawa marine staff where landing an aircraft is not course they’ll be able to safely and practical application from actual possible. efficiently conduct HRST opera- aircraft. arines aboard Okinawa Upon completion of the course, tions and get all the Marines to the The students’ take away from and coastguardsmen the students will be qualified as fight.” this training is knowledge of how Mfrom Hawaii broadened HRST masters and have the ability HRST operations include fast to guide others through HRST their skill sets as they participated to rig all suspension systems to an roping, rappelling and Special operations safely and set up the in the 11-day Helicopter Rope aircraft and guide others through Patrol Insertion/Extraction. The equipment for insertion or extrac- Suspension Techniques Masters the operation. students learned these techniques tion properly, Gayle said. Course on Camp Hansen and the “When (Marines) can’t get to an and applied them from various Apart from learning the proper Central Training Area. area because landing their aircraft aircraft including the CH-46E Sea techniques and rigging, the stu- The course, primarily designed is impracticable, they go straight Knight, CH-53E Super Stallion, dents also had to learn the me- for reconnaissance Marines, pro- to HRST operations,” said Sgt. UH-1N Huey and the Air Force’s chanics and physics of the rigging, vides the students with the skills Brandon Gayle, a HRST instructor HH-60 Pave Hawk. such as the tensile strength on and knowledge to perform tacti- at III Marine Expeditionary Force The training consisted of 10 certain cords and the proper inser- cal insertions and extractions in Special Operations Training hours of class time, 40 hours tion of carabineers.

Attention to detail is very ‘‘ important throughout this course. - Sgt. Julio Montemayor’’

Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Masters Course students perform Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction from a CH-46E Sea Knight during a HRST Masters Course at the Central Training Area Aug. 5. okinawa marine | FEATURE | august 13, 2010 7 Service members master Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques “They have to know everything that’s going on with the operation. Things like inspecting the ropes and knowing the load capacity are very important,” said Sgt. Julio ABOVE: Between firing and other training the Montemayor, an assistant HRST Marines of combat Assault Battalion had classes instructor at III MEF SOTG. “They where they were taught about the weapons they have other peoples’ lives in their fired, June 14, at Range 10 on . A hands; knowing everything will Lance Cpl. instructor talks to the Marines about keep them from putting their team- the M240B machine gun. mates’ lives in danger. Attention to detail is very im- portant throughout this course.”

LEFT: Two Marines with Combat Assault Battalion rain havoc with the M240B gas- operated, belt-fed,

Sgt. Rodrigo Ugalde, a Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques instructor at III Marine Expeditionary Force Special Operations Training Group oversees a fast rope exercise for safety from an Air Force HH-60 Pave Hawk during a HRST Masters Course at the Central Training Area Aug. 6.

Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Masters Course students give the thumbs up, signaling that they are ready to perform Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Special Patrol Insertion/ instructors with III Marine Expeditionary Extraction from a CH-46E Force Special Operations Training Group Sea Knight during a HRST observe their students during a rappelling Masters Course at the exercise conducted from a CH-46E Sea Central Training Area Knight during a HRST Masters Course at the Aug. 5. Central Training Area Aug. 4.  okinawa marine | FEATURE | august 13, 2010

Myra Krieger, left, and Jenna Cobler, swim instructors with Camp Adventure, teach students basic swimming techniques in the Learn to Swim Level 3 Program at the Foster 50-meter pool. This lesson is used to teach children how to kick in the water. Photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew A. Denny Camp Adventure fun for students of all ages

Lance Cpl.’s Matthew A. Denny and Kris B. Daberkoe Interns are selected from approximately 80 the start of Camp Adventure classes in order to okinawa marine staff college campuses. If selected, they attend one plan field trips, coordinate activities and build of 10 leadership training centers nationwide, staff cohesion, said Zabala. or 25 years, about 50 college students said Anna Van Horn, the project coordinator Children of service members assigned to come to Okinawa as counselors partici- with Camp Adventure Youth Services. installations that offer the program have a Fpating in the Camp Adventure Youth College counselors arriving on Okinawa chance to participate in the aquatics or day Services program during summer months. are Status of Forces Agreement members and camp. Children eligible for the day camp must Camp Adventure is a program designed to al- receive the same newcomers and safety brief as be between the ages of 6- 12. low a number of college students to travel abroad Marines have to go through, and a child care The aquatics program consists of swimming and mentor military children worldwide. brief, she added. lessons taught by the college counselors. The program was founded in South Korea While here, interns are encouraged to famil- There are six skill levels offered in the in 1985, and provides a positive environment iarize themselves with the local culture, said Learn to Swim program, and students are put for counselors and children of service mem- Zaballa. in a level based on their experience swim- bers stationed on bases around the world, said Interns are also assigned homework regard- ming, said Stille. Jezelle Zabala, project director. ing their encounters with new people, places Learn to swim lessons start out every lesson The Camp Adventure program offers an and foods, she added. with an introduction of the counselors and opportunity for college students from various During their liberty hours, counselors par- ‘blitz,’ a song and dance done by the counsel- colleges throughout the U.S. to participate take in group activities; visit local beaches and ors, said Ashley Cayford, swim instructor with in an internship program and receive college go on tours sponsored by Marine Corps Com- Camp Adventure Youth Services. credits while volunteering in youth programs munity Services, said Meredith Stille, aquat- Day camp starts the day with children for service members’ children. ics program director with Camp Adventure participating in their choice of indoor or out- College interns are required to do 40-60 Youth Services. “It’s a relief being able to go door activities, like drawing or playing on the hours of recorded experience interacting with somewhere fun without having to drive there playground. children in order to apply for the summer yourself,” she added. “We encourage choice and creativity within internship. The counselors arrive two weeks prior to our program,” said Zabala. “Choice is an im- portant part of our curriculum.” Campers can choose from a variety of activi- ties daily, and can choose to go on different field trips during the summer camp week, she said. Zabala added that she gives the counselor’s freedom to decide what activities are available on a day-to-day basis. “I get to spend my summer volunteering with children and to me that is a fun way to spend time,” said Allison Bickle, the day camp counselor with Camp Adventure Youth Services. Bickle is one of 51 college interns working as a day camp counselor at Camp Adventure summer program locations on Okinawa. “Aside from working with the kids, I also enjoy meeting all the counselors,” said Bickle. Day camp ends with counselors and camp- ers talking about their favorite part of the day and what they learned that day, said VanHorn. Counselors and campers with Camp Adventure Youth Services sing and dance during the morning Any families wanting to enroll their chil- routine at Zukeran Elementary School on Camp Foster July 26. Camp Adventure is a program designed dren for a Camp Adventure program next year, to allow college students specializing in education degrees to travel abroad and mentor military can contact Marine Corps Community Ser- children worldwide. Photo by Lance Cpl. Kris B. Daberkoe vices at 645-2628. okinawa marine | FEATURE | august 13, 2010 

Lance Cpl. Christina Friday, supply clerk with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, makes her way through the “pit and pond,” July 23 at the Jungle Warfare Training Center. The “pit and pond,” one of the final obstacles in the endurance course, challenges Marines to traverse through muddy water under barbed wire, logs and other obstacles. Endurance course teaches 9th ESB jungle warfare

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza okinawa marine staff pproximately 20 The course demands Marines with 9th small unit leadership A Engineer Support and teamwork, he added, Battalion, 3rd Marine completing the course as Logistics Group, III Ma- a team and with a positive rine Expeditionary Force, mental attitude was the participated in an endur- overall goal. In a combat ance course at the Jungle environment, the skills Warfare Training Center, developed in the course July 23. should help Marines stay The 3.8-mile endur- alive. ance course is designed to “I learned a lot of rescue challenge the mental and techniques,” said Lance The Marines of 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine physical courage of each Cpl. Ben Giraldo, an ar- Expeditionary Force, conduct a casualty evacuation on a stretcher made from tree branches Marine, and help each of morer with 9th ESB. and woodland utility blouses, through the “peanut butter mud,” July 23 at the Jungle them understand the chal- Giraldo says he is more Warfare Training Center. lenges of fighting through confident in assessing fatigue and a dense jungle high-stress situations. course) definitely boosted The course began with a Marines were required environment, said Sgt. “I know if a Marine my confidence.” 50-foot hasty rappel where to low crawl approxi- Joshua Mathes, JWTC goes down, I’ll be able to The course challenged the Marines at the bottom mately 200 feet through instructor, 3rd Marine take care of him,” added Marines with more than had to provide security trenches of water, under Division, III MEF. the 19-year-old. “(The 30 obstacles. for Marines making their barbed wire, under logs descent. and a variety of other The Marines also played challenging obstacles, said “keep in mind” games, Truba. or memorization games According to Mathes, a designed to test their abil- few Marines were hesitant ity to remember mission- to complete some of the critical information after more challenging ob- a physically or mentally stacles. exhausting exercise, said “Once we got their Lance Cpl. Matthew Truba, motivation up, they were facilities engineer for able to continue,” he said. JWTC. “They felt great about it Another obstacle the afterwards.” Marines had to face was All you need to do is the commando crawl. stay positive and keep a Approximately 25 feet clear head to get through above water, 9th ESB Ma- it, said Lance Cpl. Chris- rines had to negotiate a 50- tina Friday, supply clerk foot rope without falling with 9th ESB. off or losing any critical For information about Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine equipment. scheduling your unit for Expeditionary Force play a “Keep In Mind” game July 23 at Jungle Warfare Training Center. One of the last challeng- this and other training The game is designed to test each Marine’s ability to memorize small, mission-critical es the Marines conquered courses, contact JWTC at information and retain it in the heat of battle. was the “pit and pond.” 622-2238. 1010 okinawa marine | FEATURE | august 13, 2010 Former corpsman returns to Okinawa as artist

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. J Nava The fire inside Nicholas Centala’s okinawa marine staff traditional wood-fired kiln cures pottery placed in the back, at one of the quarterly firings, July 23. raditional Japanese wood-fired kilns are char- Centala offers a public workshop acterized by one long firing chamber, fueled and pottery classes in Nago to all of Tby burning wood instead of gas or electricity. Okinawa’s residents. Wood-fired kilns produce ash and flame that inter- act with minerals in the clay, giving it a different finish from pottery cured in other fashions. Now, a former Navy corpsman aims to share his knowledge and love for wood-fired pottery with Okinawa’s residents. Nicholas Centala first came to Okinawa in 1993 as a corpsman with the 3rd Force Service Support Group and now owns and operates a traditional wood-fired kiln and public workshop and offers pot- tery classes in Nago. Centala was first introduced to wood-fired kilns in 1999 and shortly afterward began to study Asian art at Waseda University in Tokyo. “I later apprenticed at a kiln in Kumamoto and was instantly hooked,” Centala said. “I learned ev- erything about wood-fired kilns here in Japan, and I do it all the traditional way.” Centala credits the military with giving him the values to push through the hard labor that is required to run the kiln. “It’s all about the core values we learn in basic training,” he said. “Discipline, mission accomplish- ment, attention to detail; you need every little bit of it during this process.” Centala says he first knew he wanted to build a kiln on Okinawa 10 years ago. The kiln is five meters long, consisting of a fir- ing chamber at one end, a space for pottery in the middle and a flue at the other end. There is no physical structure separating the fire from the pottery, allowing ash and smoke to stick to the pottery giving it a “unique glass finish,” Centala said. Typically the pottery comes out looking metal- lic and textured due to the ash and smoke, Centala explained. The operation started off as a non-profit organiza- tion to give free ceramic sessions to children and adults with learning disabilities and is now open to all locals, service members and dependants. The kiln is fired four times a year for three days straight each time. It requires constant stoking throughout all three days to get the fire to an opti- mum temperature of 2,280-degrees Fahrenheit. Constantly adding wood to the kiln for three days creates a large workload for Centala. All the wood used in the kiln must be cut and placed in by hand. “(Operating the kiln) requires lots of hard work but it all has to be done. It’s all about the process; if I don’t cut the wood myself then my hands won’t be ready for the fire,” Centala said about toughening up his hands for the work. The operation is of such a large scale that Centa- la’s patrons often volunteer to help in the curing of their pottery. “I came up one time and saw the process and was just hooked,” said David Morse, a volunteer. “There’s just something about working with your hands and the joy of seeing stuff that I made.” Centala says the natural glass finish attained by this method can’t be done any other way. “I think the best part of the process is closing the kiln’s door at the end,” Centala said. “When we’re done, my back hurts and my hands ache, but it’s all worth it to see what we made.” Nicholas Centala, a ceramic sculptor and the kiln’s operator, places wood inside the To learn more about the kiln or to participate in traditional Japanese pottery kiln to stoke the fire, July 23. The fire must be stoked constantly the pottery classes visit www.sentorayaki.com. to get the kiln to 2,280 degrees Fahrenheit to properly cure the pottery. okinawa marine | COMMUNITY Place | august 13, 2010 11 Aug. 13 - Aug. 19 Former corpsman returns to Okinawa as artist In Theaters Now Foster Hansen Kadena schwab today Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore TODAY The Karate Kid (PG), 6 p.m.; Jonah Hex TODAY The Karate Kid (PG), 6 p.m.; Jonah Hex TODAY Salt (PG13), 7 p.m. (PG), 3 p.m.; The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (PG), 6 and (PG13), 9 p.m. (G13), 9:30 p.m. Saturday Splice (R), 5 p.m. 9 p.m. Saturday Inception (PG13), 6 p.m.; Salt (PG13), Saturday Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty sunday Killers (PG13), 5 p.m. saturday The Karate Kid (PG), noon; The 9 p.m. Galore (PG), noon, 3 and 6 p.m.; Jonah Hex (PG13), monday-Thursday Closed Last Airbender (PG), 3:30 p.m.; The Sorcerer’s sunday Inception (PG13), 2 p.m.; Jonah Hex 9 p.m. Apprentice (PG), 6:30 p.m.; Get Him to the Greek (PG13), 5:30 p.m. SUnday Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Ga- Theater DIRECTORY (R), 9 p.m. monday The Other Guys (PG13), 7 p.m. lore (PG), 1 and 4 p.m.; Jonah Hex (PG13), 7 p.m. SUNDay The Last Airbender (PG), 1 p.m.; The tuesday The Other Guys (PG13), 6 and 9 p.m. monday The Karate Kid (PG), 7 p.m. CAMP FOSTER 645-3465 Sorcerer’s Apprentice (PG), 4 p.m.; The Other Guys Wednesday The Karate Kid (PG), 7 p.m. Tuesday Salt (PG13), 7 p.m. Kadena air base 634-1869 (PG13), 7 p.m. thursday Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Wednesday Salt (PG13), 7 p.m. (USO Night) 632-8781 monday Inception (PG13), 7 p.m. Galore (PG), 7 p.m. Thursday Salt (PG13), 7 p.m. mcas futenma 636-3890 tuesday Jonah Hex (PG13), 7 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 636-2113 wednesday Inception (PG13), 7 p.m. CAMP COURTNEY 622-9616 thursday The Other Guys (PG13), 7 p.m. kinser courtney CAMP HANSEN 623-4564 TODAY Ramona & Beezus (G), 6:30 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 623-5011 saturday Ramona & Beezus (G), 3 p.m.; Jonah TODAY The Other Guys (PG13), 6 and 9 p.m. Futenma CAMP KINSER 637-2177 Hex (PG13), 6:30 p.m. Saturday Killers (PG13), 2 and 6 p.m. TODAY Splice (R), 6:30 p.m. SUNDAY Ramona & Beezus (G), 3 p.m.; The sunday Salt (PG13), 2 and 6 p.m. Camp Schwab 625-2333 Saturday The Other Guys (PG13), 4 and 7 p.m. Karate Kid (PG), 6:30 p.m. Monday Splice (R), 7 p.m. (USO NIGHT) 625-3834 sunday Killers (PG13), 4 p.m.; Splice (R), 7 p.m. monday Closed tuesday Closed monday Salt (PG13), 7 p.m. tuesday The Karate Kid (PG), 6:30 p.m. wednesday Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a tuesday Closed Wednesday The Other Guys (PG13), 3 and Galore (PG), 7 p.m. complete listing, visit http://www.aafes.com. wednesday Closed 6:30 p.m. thursday Closed thursday Closed thursday Jonah Hex (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

ChapEL SCHEDULE Camp Foster | 645-7486 Kadena Air Base | 634-1288 • Catholic: Mon.-Fri., 11:45 a.m.; • Catholic: Sun., 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 3; Sat., 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. Sun., 11:30 a.m., Reconciliation, Chapel 3; • Christian Science: Sun., 11 a.m., Bldg. 442 Sun., 12:30 p.m., Mass, Chapel 3; • Eastern Orthodox: Sun., 9:30 a.m., Sun., 5 p.m., Mass, Chapel 2; Vespers, Sat., 5 p.m. Daily Mass, Mon.-Fri., noon, Chapel 2 • Gospel: Sun., 11:30 a.m. • Contemporary: Sun., 10:30 a.m., • Hindu: Sat., 3:30 p.m. Kadena High School • Jewish: Informal: 1st, 3rd Fri., 6:30 p.m. • Gospel: Sunday School, 9 a.m., Bldg. 856; • Muslim: Fri., Prayer, 12:45 p.m. Service 10:30 a.m., Chapel 3 • Protestant: Sun., 8:30 a.m. • Inspirational: Sun., 8:30 a.m., Chapel 2; • Protestant: Sun., 10 a.m., Chapel 2; Camp Schwab | 622-9350 • Traditional: Sun., 10:30 a.m., Chapel 2; • Catholic: Sun., 5:30 p.m. • Wiccan/Pagan: Sat., 2 p.m., Bldg. 856 • Protestant: Sun., 4 p.m. Camp Lester | 643-7248 For more activities and information, contact the Single Camp Courtney | 622-9350 • Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m., Lester Chapel Marine Program at 645-3681 • Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m.; Mon., 10 a.m., Thurs., 9 a.m., Liturgy of • Protestant: Sun., Sunday School 9:30 Word at Hospital Chapel All bus pick-up points will be at Semper Fit gyms or the a.m.; Service, 10:45 a.m. • Non-Denominational: Sun., 9 a.m., Foster Fieldhouse. Hospital Chapel; Sun., 10 a.m., Lester Camp Hansen | 622-9350 Chapel • Catholic: Sun., 10 a.m., E. Chapel • Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m., W. Chapel MCAS Futenma | 636-3058 Okuma Camping trip: Aug. 20 • Catholic: Sun., noon • Okuma Beach is well-kept with fantastic views and offers many Camp McTureous | 622-9350 • Contemporary: Fri., 7 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m. water sports including snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing, • Gospel: Sun., 12:30 p.m. paddle boats and more. Sign-up deadline is Aug. 18. Lodging must • Lutheran: Sun., 9:30 a.m. Camp Kinser | 637-1148 be coordinated by individual participant. The bus will leave Camp • Catholic: Sun., noon Hansen at 4:55 p.m. and Camp Schwab at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 20 and • Protestant: Sun., 9 a.m. depart Okuma at 2 p.m. Aug. 22.

Okinawa world (Northern camps): Aug. 29 Ads appearing in the Okinawa Marine are a free service to active duty mili- tary and their dependents, DoD employees and retirees. Ads are restricted • If you are looking for a fun day-long adventure then you classified ads to personal property or service of incidental exchange. Ads are run on a should consider Okinawa World. With a total length of 3.1 miles, space-available basis. The deadline for ads is noon Fridays. The Okinawa Gyokusendo Cave is the longest of the many caves in the south REFRIGERATOR 15.4 cubic ft. Marine reserves the right to edit ads to fit available space. Please include $150 obo your name and the phone number you wish published. The Okinawa Marine of Okinawa, and Japan's second longest. 2,789 feet of the cave (080)1703-9776 or makes every effort to ensure accuracy but assumes no responsibility for are open to the public and feature spectacular stalactites and [email protected] services offered in ads. Submit ads by fax to 645-3803, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. stalagmites. Sign up deadline is Aug. 25. Bus will leave Camp Schwab at 10:55 a.m. and Camp Hansen at 11:25 a.m.

Volunteer opportunities Aug. 2 - 6 • Zukeran Elementary School campus clean-up Aug. 25-26 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Aug. 27 from 8-11 a.m. RifleR ange Gunnery Sgt. Steven D. Morris, • E.C. Killin Elementary School campus clean-up Aug. 27 from 8:30 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 343 a.m.-3 p.m. Pistol Range Staff Sgt. Dimyas Perdue, Mention of any company in this notice does not constitute endorsement by the Marine Corps. 7th Communication Battalion, 376 12 okinawa marine | SPORTS | august 13, 2010

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235Miles 1Purpose Marines from 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, came together to make the 235-mile run around the perimeter of the island as a ‘first of its kind’ fundraiser for the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The fund helps service members who were injured in combat while serving with Marine units. Photo courtesy of Gunnery Sgt. David A. Luna, operations chief, 3rd Intel Bn. 3rd Intel Battalion runs for injured Marines Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza of Okinawa a fundraiser for the In- Japanese police to ensure it was As of this week, the Marines okinawa marine staff jured Marine Semper Fi Fund. The okay to go through the towns and have raised over $8,300, just $1,700 Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund villages at night. The course took short of their goal, thanks to anony- hat began as a conversa- helps service members who were them through towns and by each mous donors and other Marines. tion topic after physical injured in combat while serving base, said Capt. Brian J. VanHoose, The Marines say it’s just another Wtraining one morning with Marine units. operations officer, 3rd Intel Bn. P.T. session, but hope others follow between the Marines of 3rd Intelli- “It’s just Marines helping out Ma- The plan was to start off together in their footsteps. gence Battalion, III Marine Expedi- rines, that’s all,” said Gunnery Sgt. for a few miles, and then have each “Maybe we will start something,” tionary Force Headquarters Group, David A. Luna, operations chief, 3rd person switch out every 20 min- he said. III Marine Expeditionary Force, has Intel Bn. utes until they approached the end Maybe next year there will become a 235-mile run around the The team planned its route where they all finished together, be more Marines involved. Who perimeter of Okinawa, starting and utilizing roads along the coastline explained VanHoose. knows, it could become something ending at Peace Prayer Park at the keeping the water to their right side The 11 Marines with 3rd Intel- that the Marines and Japanese southern end of the island. and following every contour of the ligence Bn. began the run July 22 at people do together, he said. The first of its kind, and coinci- island, said 2nd Lt. Gene Benito, 8 p.m. and finished around 11 a.m. For more information on the dentally the number of years the training officer, 3rd Intel Bn. July 24. run, visit facebook.com and search Marine Corps has been around, a The Marines used their own “The first $1,000 we raised was Okinawa Runners, or to donate to group of Marines decided to make vehicles to transport water and from family and friends,” said their cause visit www.firstgiving. the 235-mile trek around the island food, and coordinated with the Benito. com/okinawarun. Water Warriors Program can keep Marines fit

Pfc. Garry J. Welch Participants should make the instructor sion; you get what you put into it.” okinawa marine staff aware of any personal or medical limitations so A beginner in the program should start that modifications can be made to ensure they with two classes a week, said Beard. For those or many, swimming is a good way to en- receive a safe but effective workout, said Beard. cross-training, they may want to hit the pool joy nice weather and have fun, but what Water serves as an ideal environment for two to three sessions a week. Those using Fsome may not know, is swimming is also people with musculoskeletal injuries, arthri- swimming as their primary cardiovascular a great way to improve physical fitness. tis and other physical conditions that make workout are suggested to participate in the Water Warriors is a water fitness class frequent exercises on land difficult or painful, water fitness classes up to five times a week. available to all service members and Status of she added. “This is my first time. It’s a good workout, Forces Agreement personnel on Okinawa. Every move made in the water has to be and I really enjoyed it,” said Tremain Craw- There are multiple proven benefits of a water deliberate to resist the continual pressure of ford, a worker at MCAS Futenma air station workout, such as improved cardiovascular fit- the water on your body, said Beard. supply. “It was a lot harder than it looked.” ness, endurance, flexibility, muscular strength, “Your muscles work harder in water com- “The goal of the Water Warriors program balance and coordination, core stability and pared to moving through the air since move- is to promote fitness,” said Josa P. Ampong, a body alignment, said Kimberly Beard, the ment underwater creates approximately 12 to water fitness instructor and personal trainer. health promotion program manager at Marine 15 times more resistance than movement on “These are workouts that can be done to im- Corps Community Services Okinawa. land,” she said. prove run times.” “Anyone can participate in water fitness According to Beard, research conducted on Ampong is willing to travel to coach Water classes,” said Beard. “Fitness experts highly participants in water fitness classes has shown Warriors classes. She is happy to donate her recommend aquatics for all populations. The that participants can reach and sustain the time because it helps promote the program. water provides an ideal training medium for intensity range needed to improve cardiovas- To schedule Water Warriors classes contact healthy fitness enthusiasts, competitive ath- cular fitness making it an ideal program for MCCS Okinawa’s aquatic center at 645-3180, or letes, older adults, sedentary individuals and anyone regardless of their physical fitness or speak to the pool manager. prenatal women.” injuries. The schedule for water fitness classes are: “This class helps a lot,” said April Craw- “This program is just not promoted Marine Corps Air Station Futenma on Tues- ford, who is more than eight months pregnant. enough,” said Master Sgt. David G. Barnette. days and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., “When I can’t make it to the gym I come here “You never see young guys in here with us, Camp Courtney on Wednesdays and Fridays [to the Water Warriors fitness class], and it’s and it’s a shame because the classes are awe- from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., and Plaza housing on always a workout.” some. It’s like any other physical training ses- Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 to 11 p.m.