by LCpl Steven Tran
Date Posted:01.16.2016 8:28AM
U.S. and Okinawan children face off on the basketball court and then integrate as mixed teams during a youth basketball tournament on Camp Schwab, Jan. 16, 2016. The even fosters the importance of teamwork with different nationalities and cultures through sportsmanship and friendly competition.
Continue reading "U.S. and Okinawan Youth Basketball Tournament" »
By Lance Cpl. Carl King, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
15 Jan 2016
CAMP HANSEN OKINAWA, Japan -- His bulky, brown pack soaked in rain water made it a challenge to walk up the already steep hills of the jungle. His shoulders ached in a constant, annoying pain from the weight of the pack. The mud under his feet made him slip and fall every 100 steps. Through all these tangible problems and an array of intangibles, the Marine kept his composure and focused on the mission at hand – to locate, close with and destroy his enemy.
by LCpl Carl King
Date Taken:01.07.2016 | Date Posted:01.14.2016 07:24
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan – His bulky, brown pack soaked in rain water made it a challenge to walk up the already steep hills of the jungle. His shoulders ached in a constant, annoying pain from the weight of the pack. The mud under his feet made him slip and fall every 100 steps. Through all these tangible problems and an array of intangibles, the Marine kept his composure and focused on the mission at hand – to locate, close with and destroy his enemy.
Dec 30, 2015 | by Hope Hodge Seck
The Marine Corps is working with authorities in Japan to crack down on a dangerous practice in which civilians point lasers at the cockpits of aircraft in flight.
Continue reading "Laser Pointers Interfering with US Marine Pilots Flying in Okinawa" »
By Cpl. Abbey Perria, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
14 Nov 2015
CENTRAL TRAINING CENTER, OKINAWA, Japan -- “Did gunny or the lieutenant kill you?” a group of Marines casually ask each other after clearing a house at Snipe Mount, Central Training Area, Okinawa, Japan. Red and blue chalk dots speckle the Marines’ uniforms; evidence of the recent simulated gunfight.
Continue reading "BREACH, CLEAR: MPS TRAIN IN COMBAT TOWN" »
Stars and Stripes
Published: October 28, 2015
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — Marines and sailors are building up their seaborne, rapid-reaction capabilities during Blue Chromite 16, a large-scale training exercise underway on Okinawa.
Continue reading "Marine exercise on Okinawa includes 2 amphibious landings" »
By Gina Harkins, Staff writer 12:27 p.m. EDT October 1, 2015
One of the Marine Corps' oldest infantry regiments will be among the units moving from Japan to Guam over the next few years.
Continue reading "Marines identify units that will move from Japan to Guam" »
Story by Cpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:09.21.2015 | Date Posted:09.30.2015 20:28
CAMP KINSER, Japan - The Battle of Okinawa was the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific and the last battle during the island hopping campaign in World War II. Although anticipated not to last more than a few weeks, the battle ended up lasting 82 days.
Continue reading "A trip to the past: Marines visit Okinawa battle sites" »
By Cpl. Ryan Mains, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
24 Aug 2015
SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands -- The western North Pacific has historically been one of the most active tropical cyclone areas in the world. Year after year, tropical storms devastate the many islands in the Pacific. In early August, Typhoon Soudelor, the most powerful storm of the year, rocked across the Pacific before finally blowing itself out over China. The first place the typhoon hit was the small island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, Aug. 2-3.
Continue reading "US MARINES AID SAIPAN WITH TYPHOON RELIEF EFFORTS" »
By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class David A. Cox, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs
Date Posted:08.08.2015 20:49
SAIPAN HARBOR, Northern Mariana Islands – The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard USS Ashland (LSD 48) arrived in Saipan on Aug. 9 and is providing disaster relief in the wake of Typhoon Soudelor.
Continue reading "31st MEU and Ashland transport water into Saipan" »
Courtesy Video
Date Taken:06.10.2015 | Date Posted:06.10.2015 8:28PM
Marines with III Marine Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force participate in the Highland Games June 5 at Camp Hansen. The Highland Games were inspired by traditional Scottish physical competitions consisting of various events including sheep toss, tug-of-war and the caber toss.
Continue reading "Video: Marines Compete in Strongman Competitions" »
Green Business | Sat May 30, 2015 8:31am EDT
A magnitude 8.5 earthquake struck off the east coast of Japan on Saturday, shaking buildings in Tokyo, but there was no danger of a tsunami and no immediate reports of damage since the quake was extremely deep.
Story by LCpl Brittany A. James
Date Taken:05.01.2015 | Date Posted:05.08.2015 03:13
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa - Typhoons make their debut in the Pacific region annually, causing damage along their path with destructive winds and heavy rainfall. Their powerful presence can affect the operations of military installations and the safety of people residing in the region.
Continue reading "News: Preparing the best for the worst: Exercise Typhoon Readiness 2015" »
Story by Cpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:04.28.2015 | Date Posted:05.07.2015 03:14
KIN BLUE, OKINAWA, Japan – A day by the ocean for beachgoers means relaxing in the sand, swimming or enjoying the sound of the waves splashing onto the shore, but a normal beach day for U.S. Marines is much different
By Seth Robson
Stars and Stripes
Published: May 2, 2015
KATHMANDU, Nepal — Four tilt-rotor V-22 Ospreys, other U.S. aircraft and 150 military personnel headed to Nepal to boost earthquake relief efforts have been delayed a day and are now expected to arrive Sunday.
Continue reading "US troops, aircraft heading to Nepal delayed a day" »
Story by LCpl Tyler Ngiraswei
Date Taken:04.07.2015 | Date Posted:04.16.2015 14:37
OKINAWA, Japan - U.S. Marines and sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to Okinawa April 4 after completing a two-month patrol throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Continue reading "US Marines return to Okinawa after patrolling the Asia-Pacific" »
03/27/2015
By Lance Cpl. Janessa Pon, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Installations Pacific
The Pacific Command Armed Services Blood Bank Center opened its new facility March 18 next to U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan.
Continue reading "PACOM Armed Services Blood Bank Center Opens New Facility" »
Story by LCpl Brittany A. James
Date Posted:03.12.2015 20:37
OKINAWA CITY, Japan - Marines and a Japanese civilian employee with the Criminal Investigation Division of the Camp Foster Provost Marshal’s Office received letters of appreciation Feb. 20 during a ceremony at the Okinawa City Police Station, Okinawa Prefectural Police Department.
by PFC Juan Esqueda
Date Posted:01.08.2015 04:12
A post and relief ceremony Jan. 8 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee passed his responsibilities as the squadron sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Timonthy J. Rudd.
Continue reading "VMM-262 passes the sword [Image 1 of 2]" »
By Cpl. Joey S. Holeman, Jr. | | December 14, 2014
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan -- Meadowlark Lemon, Hubert ‘Geese’ Ausbie, Fred ‘Curly’ Neal, Connie ‘The Hawk’ Hawkins, and Wilt ‘The Stilt’ Chamberlain are just a few of many renowned basketball players who have worn the jersey of the world famous Harlem Globetrotters. The Globetrotters have been a staple of American basketball entertainment for 89 consecutive years and on Dec. 9 they brought their talents to the Foster Fieldhouse on Camp Foster, to excite the troops that are serving overseas.
Continue reading "Harlem Globetrotters bring their basketball talents to Camp" »
By Lance Cpl. Isaac Ibarra | | December 14, 2014
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan -- In 2006, Lt. Col. Justin Constantine was injured during a routine combat patrol while deployed to Iraq. An enemy sniper fired upon Constantine and his Marines, and before he could take cover a round hit the back of his head, exiting through his jaw.
Continue reading "Combat veteran shares recovery success story with Okinawa Marines" »
by Cpl Scott Smolinski
Date Posted:12.12.2014 5:30AM
A liberty policy revision PSA by the Lt. Gen., III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Courtesy Photo
Date Taken:12.03.2014 | Date Posted:12.09.2014 02:44
Marines with 3rd Intelligence Battalion got the base in the holiday spirit where they donned Santa costumes, antlers and other festive accessories during the three kilometer run during the Jingle Bell Fun Run Dec. 3 on the parade field at Camp Hansen.
Courtesy Story - free of known copyright restrictions under U.S. copyright law.
Date Posted:12.09.2014 03:47
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, Japan - The Liberty Policy is just one initiative in our comprehensive efforts to ensure our personnel maintain the highest standards of conduct and behavior. Active leadership engagement and enhanced education and training are other components that we have, and continue to stress. We remain committed to being good neighbors and citizens in the communities where we live and work.
Continue reading "USFJ implements updated Liberty Policy on Okinawa" »
Story by Sgt Jose O. Nava
Date Posted:12.09.2014 04:07
CAMP FOSTER, Japan - The Commander, United States Forces, Japan has disseminated a new Japan-wide liberty policy that will take effect on Dec. 9. The new policy applies to all U.S. service members that are stationed in or temporarily visit Japan and will replace the previous 29 May 2013 USFJ liberty policy. And there are some additional management tools that specifically apply to Marines based in Japan, according to Marine Corps officials.
Continue reading "USFJ, Marine Liberty Policies for Japan Updated" »
Story by Cpl Drew Tech
Date Posted:12.09.2014 00:46
KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE, Japan — U.S. Marines participating in exercise Forest Light 15-1 visited with high school students Dec. 5 in Kumamoto prefecture, Japan.
Continue reading "US Marines visit Japanese high schools, share culture" »
Story by LCpl Isaac Ibarra
Date Posted:11.27.2014 05:42
CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan —In the previous 14 years, more than 160 active shooter instances have occurred resulting in casualties in communities throughout the U.S. Military installations are also susceptible to these types of emergencies. As first responders, military police must remain ready to keep their community safe and respond to all types of emergencies.
Continue reading "To serve and protect: PMO trains to save lives" »
By Joshua Stewart
Nov. 3, 2014 - 08:33PM
Corps officials have closed off a portion of the jungle warfare training center in Okinawa, Japan, thought to be contaminated with a bacteria that has left dozens of Marines sick.
Continue reading "Oki Marines fall ill after training in murky waters" »
Story by LCpl Ryan Mains
Date Taken:10.07.2014 | Date Posted:10.20.2014 19:39
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan – Military working dog handlers put a spin on the old adage, ‘teach an old dog new tricks,’ by participating in a fast-roping exercise with their dogs Oct. 7 at the Camp Hansen rappel tower.
Continue reading "Sit, stay, rappel: Dogs fast rope with their handlers" »
By Jim Gearhart October 15, 2014 9:30 AM
This is absolutely fantastic to watch. Check out the drum battle between III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) Band and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army Band.
By Matthew M. Burke
Published: October 8, 2014
When Navy Lt. Cmdr. Joy Dierks arrived at work last month, she found 31 sick Marines waiting for her.
Continue reading "Sick Marines a medical whodunnit for Navy doctors" »
Oct. 2, 2014 - 03:07PM
By Kyle Daly
(Hagatna, Guam) Pacific Daily News
Search efforts for a Marine who went missing last week while swimming off the coast of Tinian were suspended Wednesday morning.
Continue reading "Search suspended for Marine missing in Guam" »
By MARI YAMAGUCHI and GRACE GARCES BORDALLO
Posted: 10/05/2014 11:20 pm EDT | Updated: 10/06/2014 3:59 am EDT
TOKYO (AP) — A powerful typhoon that washed three American airmen in Okinawa out to sea, killing at least one, slammed central Japan on Monday, stalling trains and flights and triggering mudslides, before swerving to the Pacific Ocean.
Continue reading "Typhoon Phanfone Hits Okinawa And Central Japan, 3 U.S. Airman Swept Out To Sea" »
By Seth Robson | Stars and Stripes
Published: September 26, 2014
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — Okinawa-based Marines and sailors are taking part in an exercise that is designed to boost the Philippine military’s amphibious capabilities.
Continue reading "PHIBLEX: Marines, Navy participating in Philippine amphibious exercise" »
Stars and Stripes
Published: September 23, 2014
An estimated 18,000 servicemembers wrapped up Valiant Shield in Guam Tuesday.
Story by Sgt Matthew Manning
Date Taken:08.27.2014 | Date Posted:09.21.2014 8:34PM
Marines with Kilo Battery, 3rd Battalion, 11th Martine Regiment, take part in live-fire artillery training during Artillery Relocation Training Program 14-2 at Yausubetsu Maneuver Area in Hokkaido.
Continue reading "Video: Kilo Battery Dominates the Battlefield During ARTP 14-2" »
Courtesy story by Lance Cpl. Luis Ramirez
Date Taken:09.10.2014Date Posted:09.16.2014 05:02
TINIAN, North Marianas Islands – Corpsmen with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 participating in Valiant Shield 2014 conducted a mass casualty (MASCAS) drill here Sept. 10 in anticipation of the commencement of the exercise.
Continue reading "Corpsmen conduct MASCAS exercise on Tinian" »
By Erik Slavin
Stars and Stripes
Published: September 18, 2014
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam — Capt. Jarod Dicks likens the Marines and the Air Force working together to putting an Alabaman and a Scotsman together in the same room: They may speak the same language, but they have very different ideas of what makes a good football match.
Story by LCpl Tyler Ngiraswei
Date Posted:09.18.2014 02:57
TINIAN, North Marianas Islands – It is argued that the weather cost the French the Battle of Agincourt as their horses struggled across the swampy land in pursuit of Henry V’s significantly smaller British Army.
Continue reading "Forecasters prepare for Valiant Shield 2014" »
By Robert D. Eldridge, Ph.D. | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | September 11, 2014
Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan -- Saya Onodera was only a few days away from graduating the 6th grade at Oshima Elementary School when a magnitude 9-earthquake, followed by a massive tsunami, struck her hometown of Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Fortunately, her school sits on higher ground, and the students were spared. Her school became an evacuation shelter for several months afterwards, with the students pitching in to help their neighbors, many of whom lost their homes, livelihoods, and in some cases, family members.
Story by Cpl David Walters
Date Taken:08.31.2014Date Posted:09.11.2014 04:05
TINIAN, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands – Heavy equipment operators with Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Combat Logistics Company 36 and 9th Engineer Support Battalion, clear a runway at West Field, Tinian, Aug. 31 during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014.
Continue reading "Heavy equipment operators get dirty to clear runway" »
By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | September 10, 2014
September 6, 2014 -- HIRARA CITY, MIYAKO ISLAND, Japan – Members of the Okinawa Prefectural Government hosted a series of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills with the Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. Marines on and around Miyako Island Sept. 6.
Continue reading "OPG leads way as Marines, JSDF join disaster preparedness training" »
By Joshua Stewart
Sep. 5, 2014 - 01:15PM
A Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier caught fire Thursday after making an emergency landing in Japan.
Story Number: NNS140902-05Release Date: 9/2/2014 5:36:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Will Gaskill,
USS Peleliu Public Affairs
OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), arrived in Okinawa, Japan, to embark the Okinawa-based 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) after embarking Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 while in Sasebo, Japan Aug. 31.
By Lance Cpl. Tyler Ngiraswei | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | August 25, 2014
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan --
A young boy puts goggles on and lowers himself into the water. His weapon loaded, he quietly makes his way toward his target tuning out the noise around him.
Story by Cpl Henry Anteno
Date Taken:08.08.2014 | Date Posted:08.12.2014 20:15
CAMP HANSEN, Japan - Marines with Company K, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, completed a squad competition at Camp Hansen, Aug 8.
Continue reading "BLT Marines race for time in squad competition" »
by LCpl Alexander Pool
Date Taken:07.18.2014 | Date Posted:07.22.2014 7:21AM
US Marines with Kilo Company, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (BLT 3/5), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) conduct a vertical assault on a Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) facility in Okinawa, Japan as part of MEU Exercise (MEUEX). The MEUEX is to prepare the unit for an upcoming amphibious deployment and practice it’s mission essential tasks while improving overall operational readiness. (Marine Corps Motion Imagery Provided by Lance Cpl. Alexander N. Pool 31st MEU Combat Camera/ Released)
By Lance Cpl. Drew Tech | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | July 11, 2014
CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan -- Military working dogs and their Marine handlers executed improvised explosive device detection training July 2 in the Central Training Area.
Continue reading "Paw Patrol: Military working dogs execute explosive detection training" »
By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: July 9, 2014
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Typhoon Neoguri bore down on mainland Japan on Wednesday after drenching the country’s southern islands with the heaviest rainfall in 10 years.
Continue reading "US bases on Okinawa assessing damage after Typhoon Neoguri rolls through" »
By Dave Ornauer
Published: July 4, 2014
11:15 a.m. Saturday, July 5, Japan time: Neoguri could rival Bart as the worst typhoon to hit Okinawa in the past 15 years.
Story by SSgt Joseph Digirolamo
Date Taken:06.27.2014 | Date Posted:07.02.2014 06:35
OKINAWA, Japan – Several Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit rushed to aid an accident victim who was hit by a vehicle while riding his moped on highway 58 in Ginowan city, June 27.
Continue reading "Quick reacting Marines aid injured Okinawan motorist" »
Stars and Stripes
Published: June 23, 2014
NORTHERN OKINAWA, Japan — Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion practiced their fast-roping skills during a training exercise in northern Okinawa last week.
Continue reading "Okinawa Marines practice the art of fast-roping" »
By Cpl. Henry Antenor | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | June 14, 2014
CAMP GONSALVEZ, Okinawa, Japan --
Marines slip and slide down red clay slopes. They trudge through neck-high, insect -infested water. They belly-crawl through muddy trenches, wriggle underneath concertina wire, hop over concrete walls, submerge face first into a peanut-butter like sludge and drag themselves through obstacles.
Continue reading "Marines endure culminating event during jungle warfare training" »
By Sgt. Jose O. Nava | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | June 03, 2014
MATSUDA-NO-HAMA BEACH, OKINAWA, Japan -- The sun shines down on the ocean as final preparations are made for the beginning of the annual Henoko Dragon Boat Races May 25 at Matsuda-No-Hama Beach. Okinawa residents, U.S. service members and their families participated in the event.
Continue reading "Okinawa residents, Marines take part in tradition with dragon boat races" »
Posted 5/29/2014 Updated 5/30/2014
by Airman Zade C. Vadnais
18th Wing Public Affairs
5/29/2014 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- On June 1, Kadena will enter Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness Four, the default condition of readiness during typhoon season, which begins June 1 and lasts until November 30.
Story by Sgt Adam Miller
Date Taken:05.16.2014 | Date Posted:05.21.2014 02:44
CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan – Marines concluded a two-week Special Reaction Team certification course May16 in the Central Training Area.
Continue reading "Marines get one shot at elite sniper status" »
by Sgt Jonathan Wright
Date Posted:05.12.2014 6:57AM
Marines on Okinawa participated in the Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival course on Camp Hansen starting May 5. The weeklong period allows the Marines to hold swim qualifications for their respective units per annual training requirements...
Continue reading "31st MEU Marines learn to teach during MCIWS instructor course" »
By Lance Cpl. Cedric R. Haller II | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | April 21, 2014
POHANG, GYEONGSANGBUGDO, Republic of Korea -- U.S. Marines with 9th Engineer Support Battalion offloaded vehicles and supplies in preparation for the Korean Marine Exchange Program 14-6 April 16 in Pohang, Republic of Korea.
Continue reading "9th ESB offloads, prepares for KMEP 14-6" »
Story by A1C Zade Vadnais
Date Posted:04.02.2014 22:23
OKINAWA, Japan - Airmen from Kadena's 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels management flight traveled to Marine Corps Camp Hansen to participate in a field exercise with Marines from the 9th Engineer Support Battalion March 24 through 27.
By Pfc. Abbey Perria | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 26, 2014
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan --
Military working dog handlers with 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion received improvised explosive device detection training March 24 at Camp Hansen.
Continue reading "Military working dog handlers build skills with EOD" »
By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | March 12, 2014
CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan -- Marines with various units assigned to III Marine Expeditionary Force boarded the USNS Sacagawea Feb. 17 at Tengan Pier, near Camp Courtney.
Continue reading "Marines board USNS Sacagawea for ROK exercises" »
Photos by LCpl Donald Peterson
Date Taken:02.28.2014 | Date Posted:03.12.2014 04:44
Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4 compete in a fire team push-up competition Feb. 28 at the parade field on Camp Foster during a battalion field meet. Other activities consisted of several different competitions including a pull-up contest, fire team push-up contest, truck pull, tug of war and sumo wrestling matches. CLB-4 is part of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Continue reading "Images: 3rd Marine Logistics Group meets the challenge" »
Story by Lance Cpl. Stephen Himes | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 02.18.2014
Date Posted: 03.03.2014 20:24
OKINAWA, Japan – On the night of Feb. 18, three Marines reacted quickly and selflessly to provide aid to an injured man.
Continue reading "Marines rapidly respond to injured Okinawa resident" »
By Jennifer Hlad
Stars and Stripes
Published: February 20, 2014
CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan — Forklifts, weapons, radios, tactical vehicles. Containers, trailers, air conditioners, generators. If the Marines brought it to Afghanistan, they need to get it out of Afghanistan, and it’s R4OG’s job to get it done.
Continue reading "Gear in, gear out: Marines on retrograde mission pack it up and ship it out" »
By Pfc. Donald T. Peterson | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | February 06, 2014
CAMP FOSTER -- Twenty-six corpsmen with various units within the III Marine Expeditionary Force participated in a forward resuscitative care course Jan. 27-30 at the Simulated Trauma Advanced Training Center on Camp Foster.
By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders | III MEF/MCIPAC Consolidated Public Affairs Office | February 06, 2014
KIN BLUE, Okinawa -- Members of 3rd Maintenance Battalion participated in Maintenance Exercise 14-1 Jan. 27 to Feb. 1 at the Kin Blue Training Area near Camp Hansen.
Continue reading "3rd Maintenance Battalion completes exercise at Kin Blue" »
By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: February 5, 2014
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa — The USS Denver made a brief stop at Okinawa on Wednesday to pick up members of the 3rd Marine Division and their gear before proceeding to Thailand in support of Exercise Cobra Gold 2014.
Continue reading "Marines board USS Denver at Okinawa, head for Cobra Gold" »
Story by Cpl Matthew Manning
Date Posted:01.29.2014 07:22
CAMP HANSEN, Japan - Members of the Kin Town Office, Kin Town Fire Department, Ishikawa Police Station and the Okinawa Prefectural Police completed a bilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise with Marines from Camp Hansen Jan. 29 to increase disaster preparedness.
Continue reading " Camp Hansen hosts bilateral disaster-preparedness exercise" »
Story by LCpl Peter Sanders
Date Posted:11.21.2013 01:12
JUNGLE WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, Okinawa — Marines train to prepare for any event, including caring for the injured or wounded. Not only did one Marine remember his training when it counted, he also saved a life in the process.
Story LCpl Natalie Rostran
Date Posted:11.21.2013 00:53
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa - The Commandant of the Marine Corps General James F. Amos’ recent letter to sergeants and corporals, “The Reawakening,” describes the noncommissioned officers as the backbone of the Marine Corps.
By Courtesy Story | III MEF | November 13, 2013
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan -- Four additional MV-22B Ospreys departed Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Nov. 13 to support Operation Damayan, a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operation in the Republic of the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda.
Continue reading "Four additional Ospreys deploy to Philippines" »
Story by SSgt Kenneth Lewis
Date Posted:11.10.2013 08:54
OKINAWA, Japan - At the request of the Government of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has directed U.S. Pacific Command to support U.S. Government humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations (HADR) operations in the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan.
Continue reading "3rd MEB to provide humanitarian assistance to Philippines" »
Story by LCpl Henry Antenor
Date Posted:11.01.2013 01:32
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific executed newly instituted combat pistol program qualifications with the M9A1 9 mm pistol Oct. 29 at Range 15 on Camp Hansen.
By Lance Cpl. Donald T. Peterson | Okinawa Marine | October 31, 2013
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan --
"I’m letting my dog go!” warned the dog handler to the fleeing suspect.
Continue reading "Military working dogs, handlers build relationship" »
By Sgt. Paul Robbins Jr. | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | October 31, 2013
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- From the rooftops of buildings to the streets winding throughout the base, the Marines tested their skills in nearly every situation they could face in combat.
Continue reading "On the roof or the street, ANGLICO stays ready" »
By Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | October 25, 2013
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- A group of sailors walk through the halls of a Marine battalion headquarters with their heads held high. These sailors hold the title of corpsman, a moniker of medical and combat proficiency well respected throughout the Marine Corps.
Story by LCpl Henry Antenor
Date Taken:10.19.2013 | Date Posted:10.25.2013 02:25
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — Marines and sailors with Battery F returned to Camp Hansen Oct. 17 after completing training at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji in support of Artillery Relocation Training Program 13-3.
By Cpl. Coday Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | October 02, 2013
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- As the morning sun rose and reveille sounded, the Marines started their day by getting out of their dirt-floor beds with rifles in hand. Next to them, however, was one person who was not a Marine but was wearing a camouflage uniform and worked, ate and slept just as they did. The sun caught the golden cross on his lapel as the greetings of “good morning Chaps” started.
Continue reading "Shoulder-to-Shoulder in the Fight: Chaplains of the 31st MEU" »
lBy Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | September 25, 2013
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan -- With the return of the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and the offload of more than 1,000 Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, the MEU’s regularly scheduled Fall Patrol ended here, Sept. 25.
Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl | Amphibious Squadron 11 | Date: 09.21.2013
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan – Amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan Sept. 21 to conduct an offload of the 31st MEU.
Continue reading "USS Denver arrives in White Beach, offloads 31st MEU" »
By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 30, 201
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa — They first crossed into the Pacific Ocean in 1966 to support Marines in Vietnam.
By Lisa Tourtelot
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 20, 2013
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa — The Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 “Flying Tigers” are in their final days flying the CH-46 Sea Knights. Later this year, the squadron will transition to the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft and decommission the Sea Knights, according to Marine Corps officials.
Continue reading "Sea Knights prepping for final takeoff from Okinawa" »
Story by Sgt Anthony Kirby
Date Taken: 08.03.2013
Date Posted:08.16.2013
OKINAWA, Japan - There are many ways to give back to the community. Whether by providing a meal or doing beautification work, going out and being a positive influence in the community is a great way to connect with people beyond the confines of a military base.
Continue reading "3rd Supply Battalion earns hearts with tour" »
Courtesy story by Lance Cpl. Chloe R. Nelson
08.03.2013
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Japan - Two MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, part of the second MV-22 squadron to Okinawa and Japan, landed at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan, Aug. 3.
Continue reading " Two MV-22B Ospreys arrive at MCAS Futenma" »
By DAVE ORNAUER
Published: July 8, 2013
6 p.m. Monday, July 8, Japan time: Already, the wind is picking up some, bending around from the southwest to the east for the first time in what seems like weeks.
By Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | June 25, 2013
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa, Japan --
Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 to begin their summer patrol here, June 25.
Story by Sgt. Jonathan Wright | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | Date: 06.03.201
OKINAWA, Japan - A platoon-sized element of Japanese soldiers spent two days learning from the Marines and Sailors of Company F., Battalion Landing Team 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, as they conducted small-boat training operations here, June 2 and 3.
Continue reading "31st MEU’s “Boat” Company shows Japanese soldiers their craft" »
By Travis J. Tritten
Published: June 3, 2013
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — The U.S. military has eased a 6-month-old ban on off-base drinking on Okinawa.
Continue reading "US military on Okinawa eases drinking restrictions" »
By Cpl. Matthew Manning | Marine Corps Installations Pacific | March 14, 2013
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan -- When Marines near their end of active service date and begin contemplating re-enlistment, there are many concerns that need to be addressed before an informed decision can be made.
Continue reading "Corps seeks to retain Marines, encourages re-enlistments" »
Posted by Gidget Fuentes
February 5th, 2013
Members of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit from Camp Pendleton, Calif., joined Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces for this year’s “Iron Fist” exercise, held in Southern California. The three-week interoperability training exercise has the combined forces training on this side of the Pacific along the coast, in the desert, out at sea and back ashore as the Marines and soldiers hone their warfighting skills with patrolling, assaults, mechanized attacks and live-fire and maneuver drills. This is the eighth year for the bilateral training, which ”promises to be bigger and better than in previous years,” Maj. Gen. Melvin G. Spiese, the I Marine Expeditionary Force deputy commander, said during the Jan. 22 opening ceremony.
Continue reading "Iron Fist: Japanese forces take to the desert with Marines" »
By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood | 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit | January 30, 2013
White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan -- Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on three ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 to begin their annual Spring Patrol and journey to the Kingdom of Thailand for exercise Cobra Gold 2013, Jan 30.
Continue reading "31st MEU embarks for 32nd iteration of exercise Cobra Gold 2013" »
By Lance Cpl. Donald T. Peterson
Marine Corps Installations Pacific
January 17, 2013
CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, Okinawa, Japan -- As Marines traverse through the dense jungle, they stumble upon a 70-foot-wide trench approximately 50-feet-deep. Without hesitation, the Marines pull out a 100-foot rope and lower a Marine down to cross the trench and start building a one-rope bridge.
By Lance Cpl. Pete Sanders
Marine Corps Installations Pacific
January 10, 2013
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan -- The III Marine Expeditionary Force Band was selected as the Marine Corps band of the year Dec. 18 by a panel of Headquarters Marine Corps judges.
By Cpl. Mark W. Stroud
Marine Corps Installations Pacific
January 10, 2013
CAMP BUTLER, Okinawa, Japan -- Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr., the commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force, provided guidance to his command Jan. 4 that explained his intent and vision for III MEF during 2013.
By Cpl. Jonathan G. Wright
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 26, 2012
HENOKO, Okinawa, Japan --
“It never gets old,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew R. Minteer, corpsman with Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. “I could visit 100 places like this and get the same satisfaction as I do today.”
Continue reading "CLB-31 gives the present of joy to children without families" »
By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: December 13, 2012
SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan — Apparently a few Marines can move a mountain — of supplies, that is.
Continue reading "Okinawa Marines helping with Philippines disaster relief" »
By Lance Cpl. Codey Underwood
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit
December 09, 2012
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- After offloading hundreds of pieces of communications equipment from a recent deployment at sea, the Marines must ensure their operational capabilities are maintained.
Marines from the communications detachment of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, maintain their operational readiness through constant analysis and maintenance of the unit’s communications equipment.
Continue reading "Maintaining communications for the 31st MEU" »
by: Travis J. Tritten
Stars and Stripes
published: December 6, 2012
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Eight months after reaching a breakthrough agreement to trim Marine forces on Okinawa and ease a core cause of anti-military friction, the U.S. has made scant progress on the drawdown and is once again trying to quell outrage over off-base, alcohol-related crimes that have escalated Japanese tension to its highest point in years.
Continue reading "Realignment of Marines stalls as Okinawans’ outrage grows" »
By Dave Ornauer
Published: September 14, 2012
7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, Japan time: Very, very heartening to see people bustling hither and thither through the Foster commissary this afternoon. Took an hour for me to get what little needed to be done for the office, but I’ll venture to say the commissaries and PXs all around island made a KILLING on this day. And more shopping will likely be done Saturday in the storm’s run-up by those who haven’t done so (and why, oh, why have you not done so yet?).
By the CNN Wire Staff
updated 6:57 AM EDT, Fri September 14, 2012
(CNN) -- A huge typhoon packing fierce winds is moving north toward the Japanese island of Okinawa and is projected to eventually hit the Korean Peninsula, where dozens of people were killed by a big storm last month.
Continue reading "Super typhoon headed for Okinawa, South Korea" »
The Associated Press
Published: August 26, 2012
TOKYO (AP) -- More than 75,000 households lacked power on Monday after a powerful typhoon lashed the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, injuring four people but doing less damage than feared before moving off to sea.
Continue reading "Powerful typhoon lashes Japan's Okinawa island" »
Stars and Stripes
Published: August 23, 2012
OKINAWA, Japan — Okinawa residents are being warned to prepare for a massive storm that forecasters say could be the most powerful to hit the island in 13 years.
Continue reading "Okinawa residents brace for powerful typhoon" »
Story by Lance Cpl. Erik Brooks | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installations Pacific | Date: 06.11.2012
Date Posted:06.14.2012 19:53
CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa, Japan — Fourth Marine Regiment welcomed 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, June 11, as the first infantry battalion in the unit deployment program to deploy to Camp Schwab in several years.
By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Mar 14, 2012 18:59:20 EDT
The Marine Corps will increase six-month unit rotations through Okinawa, Japan, a top general said Wednesday, even as the service plans to reduce its permanent presence on the island by 8,000 personnel in coming years.
Continue reading "General: More Marines will rotate to Japan" »
1/25/2012 By Lance Cpl. Brianna Turner , Marine Corps Bases Japan
Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan — A vacation in Japan, visiting with his son and grandchildren, reminiscing about the past that is what Ron Maines, a Rogers, Ark. native, had planned when he came to Okinawa. What he found while taking a stroll down memory lane, however, was not what he expected.
Continue reading "Family bonding leads to discoveries from past " »
Iron Fist amphibious exercise expands during shift toward Asia Pacific
Written by
Gretel C. Kovach
6:39 p.m., Jan. 16, 2012
Camp Pendleton troops will be storming the beaches with Japanese defense forces over the next month, building on long-standing military ties with an important strategic ally in the Asia Pacific amid rising tensions in the region.
Continue reading "Japanese forces and Marines train in Iron Fist" »
1/13/2012 By Lance Cpl. Alyssa N. Hoffacker , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CHATAN, OKINAWA, Japan — Cpl. Eric J. Hansen put his training to work recently, saving an elderly woman’s life in Mihama.
Story by Lance Cpl. Erik Brooks | III Marine Expeditionary Force / Marine Corps Installation Pacific | Date: 11.18.2011
CAMP FUJI, Japan - Immediately upon their arrival, wires spread out and antennas sprout from the ground like spring grass. These Marines set up critical communications assets to allow an artillery battalion to communicate.
Continue reading "Communication Marines facilitate 3/12’s command and control" »
9/29/2011 By Cpl. Garry J. Welch , 31st MEU
WHITE BEACH, OKINAWA, Japan — With all cargo and personnel aboard, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit departed Okinawa, Japan, for its next patrol of the Asia-Pacific region, Sept. 27.
Continue reading "31st MEU departs Okinawa for patrol of Asia-Pacific region " »
9/23/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 2,200 Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are preparing to board Navy ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, and depart within days to begin a patrol of the Asia-Pacific region.
Continue reading "31st MEU begins boarding for next deployment " »
9/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan
KIN TOWN, OKINAWA, Japan — For almost two decades, Marines and sailors with 7th Communication Battalion have volunteered their time and energy at Hikarigaoka Nursing Home in Kin-Cho. From sweeping the parking lots, to mowing the grass or just spending the holidays with the residents of the nursing home, the service members have made a lasting impression on their local community.
Continue reading "Marines volunteer at local nursing home " »
Story by Lance Cpl. Heather Choate | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 07.08.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - During World War II, one of the fiercest battles took place in the Pacific. The Battle of Okinawa, fought in 1945, claimed more than 62,000 U.S. casualties, making it the bloodiest warfare U.S. forces experienced during the war.
Continue reading "What’s in a name? Okinawa bases named for fallen heroes" »
Story by Pfc. Daniel Valle | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 07.08.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - Artillery Marines are known for receiving firing missions and supporting their fellow Marines on the front lines of battle
Continue reading "Marines, sailors volunteer time with local community" »
By Matthew M. Burke
Stars and Stripes
Published: July 8, 2011
SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan — A “maintenance issue” forced the USS Essex back into port Thursday, meaning the ship, its crew and some members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit won’t be off the coast of Australia when Talisman Sabre 2011 kicks off Monday, Navy officials said Friday.
Continue reading "'Maintenance issue' forces USS Essex back to port en route to exercise" »
7/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — In the mid-2000s, Marines’ and sailors’ vulnerabilities were being exploited in Iraq by enemy snipers and improvised-explosive device makers. Commanders began to consider the best ways to counter attack them using more intelligent tactics rather than more technologically-advanced combat systems. In 2006, the Marine Corps sought to increase offensive spirit and to become predators, not prey - the Combat Hunter program was born.
Continue reading "Marines hone skills, become combat hunters" »
Story by Cpl. Jovane Henry | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 06.02.2011
Dealing with personal finances can be a daunting task for those not experienced or unaware of the resources available.
Continue reading "PSC offers monthly Money Management Workshop" »
5/20/2011 By Lance Cpl. Tyler C. Vernaza , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan — Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr., commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force and commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan, visited Camp Hansen May 13 to praise III MEF and MCBJ Marines and sailors for their efforts during the recent Operation Tomodachi and to discuss the way ahead for III MEF.
4/22/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Henry , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day, devoted to the promotion of environmental education, has evolved from a classroom presentation to a worldwide observance recognized and celebrated by more than 175 countries.
Story by Lance Cpl. Jennifer Pirante | Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni | Date: 04.20.2011
IWAKUNI, Japan - Marine Aircraft Group 12 welcomed Marine-Attack Squadron 211 into its hangars here April 6 as the squadron nears the end of its Western Pacific deployment.
Continue reading "Wake Island Avengers take on Japan: VMA-211 arrives for UDP" »
4/15/2011 By Lance Cpl. Michael Iams , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — The stage of the Camp Foster theater was awash in “Coats of Red and Blue” as the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band and The President’s Own United States Marine Band performed together April 8.
Continue reading "III MEF Band plays alongside President’s Own" »
Story by Cpl. Claudio Martinez | Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni | Date: 04.14.2011
Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 machinists received two pieces of machinery last month that have improved the squadron’s productivity and the station’s readiness to support regular operations here and throughout Japan.
Continue reading "MALS-12 receives new machines to arm station with greater capabilities" »
Story by Cpl. Aaron Hostutler | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 04.07.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - Whether pro-leaguers nearing a perfect 300 score or beginners with a 75-point average, bowling is a sport with benefits for all.
Continue reading "Bowling offers inexpensive, entertaining pastime" »
4/8/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, OKinawa, Japan — After almost two years of renovations, the Camp Foster Mess Hall officially reopened its doors March 29.
Continue reading "Camp Foster Mess Hall celebrates grand reopening" »
4/1/2011 By Cpl. Aaron Hostutler , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — “Dear Marine, thank you for helping in Sendai and for helping the Japanese people with rebuilding, giving supplies, first aid, food and water and clothes. I hope you guys help out a lot. I’m glad you left your own home to help out the Japanese.”
3/18/2011 By 1st Lt. John D. Norton , Marine Corps Bases Japan
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa, Japan — Marine Corps Air Station Futenma has proven to be a critical asset in III Marine Expeditionary Force’s support to the humanitarian assistance/disaster relief efforts on mainland Japan following the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami which took place March 11, according to the station’s commanding officer Col. Dale M. Smith.
Continue reading "MCAS Futenma proves critical during III MEF HA/DR effort" »
3/18/2011 By Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — More than 130 Marines with Romeo Battery, 5th Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., arrived on Okinawa to augment 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, as part of the Marine Corps’ Unit Deployment Program March 11.
Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.17.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - Marines stationed at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, departed today bound for Yamagata, Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi.
Continue reading "III Marine Expeditionary Force continues to support relief effort" »
By Charlie Reed
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 16, 2011
SENDAI, Japan — More than 4,000 tsunami survivors were still stranded along the pulverized coastline east of here Wednesday, and the region’s dwindling supply of gasoline began threatening rescue efforts and fueling a new sense of panic in the city.
Continue reading "Fuel shortage threatens to slow rescuers" »
Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.16.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Humanitarian Assistance Survey Teams from III Marine Expeditionary Force surveyed heavily damaged areas today in Sendai, Japan, delivered much-needed water supplies and assisted the Government of Japan in coordinating relief efforts during Operation Tomodachi.
Continue reading "USMC survey teams deliver aid to Sendai" »
By Jon Rabiroff
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 16, 2011
SEOUL — U.S. military assets continue to converge on Japan, hoping to deliver humanitarian assistance while being careful not to expose servicemembers to radiation leaking from the crippled Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant.
Continue reading "Military monitors radiation as troops deliver humanitarian aid" »
By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, March 15, 2011 – In the wake of Japan’s massive earthquake and tsunami, Red Cross officials are encouraging U.S. service members and families posted there to register with an online resource intended to keep family and friends back home informed of their welfare.
Continue reading "Red Cross Website Links Japan-based Troops to Home" »
3/14/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU
PHILIPPINE SEA — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard three ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, is heading towards the coast of mainland Japan and is expected to arrive March 16 in support of Operation Tomodachi, after a major earthquake and following tsunami Friday.
Continue reading "31st MEU headed for Japan coast prepared to assist" »
Story by Lindsay Pirek | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.14.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan – Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force continue to provide support for foreign humanitarian assistance operations from Okinawa to mainland Japan. The operation, known as Tomodachi, means “friends” in Japanese, and was chosen by Japan.
Continue reading "III Marine Expeditionary Force provides support to those affected by tsunami" »
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 13, 2011
YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan — Life started to return to normal Sunday for still-wary U.S. servicemembers and their families at most military bases throughout Japan, even as Japanese officials acknowledged Friday’s disaster may be exponentially worse than initially feared.
Continue reading "Some normalcy returns to bases, relief for Japanese rolls in" »
Courtesy Story | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.13.2011
OKINAWA, Japan – Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force are actively providing support for foreign humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in mainland Japan. The operation, known as Tomodachi, means “friends” in Japanese, and was chosen by Japan.
Continue reading "III Marine Expeditionary Force continues humanitarian assistance mission" »
By Erik Slavin
Stars and Stripes
Published: March 13, 2011
NAVAL AIR STATION ATSUGI, Japan — The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group delivered four drops of humanitarian supplies Sunday and began ongoing support of Japanese search-and-rescue helicopters, U.S. 7th Fleet officials said Sunday afternoon.
Continue reading "U.S. Navy steps up earthquake relief efforts in Japan" »
3/13/2011 By Gunnery Sgt. J. L. Wright Jr. , III MEF
MARINE CORPS BASES, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) are supporting Government of Japan-led humanitarian aid/disaster relief operations in mainland Japan following the 8.9 magnitude earthquake and the subsequent tsunami that struck northern Japan March 11.
Continue reading "III MEF continues relief efforts in support of Operation Tomodachi" »
Story by 1st Lt. Lucas Burke | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.12.2011
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S.D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan - Marines and sailors stood up an emergency operations center to facilitate the evacuation of U.S. service members living in low-lying areas around Okinawa, March 11.
Continue reading "Marine Corps Conducts Emergency Actions in Wake of Earthquake and Tsunami" »
3/11/2011 By Lance Cpl. Mark W. Stroud , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP COURTNEY, Okinawa, Japan — Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, trained with a new Combat Operations Center here March 1. The COC uses equipment standardized across the Marine Corps.
Story by Cpl. Rebekka Heite | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.10.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - Marines with 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF, recently returned from U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, Republic of Korea, where they participated in Operation Winter Surge 2011, a combined, joint event conducted by the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and ROK and U.S. Marines
Story by Pfc. Mark Stroud | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 03.10.2011
OKINAWA, Japan - Terrorists concealed within a civilian population are a prevalent enemy of Operation Enduring Freedom. Veiled behind a cloak of anonymity, they strike and then recede back into the shadows disappearing once more into the local populace.
Continue reading "Biometrics becomes next battlefield in War on Terror" »
3/5/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — Elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit switched naval vessels as they disembarked from the USS Denver (LPD 9) and embarked aboard the USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) in port, March 5.
Continue reading "SWAPPING SHIPS--MARINES TRANSFER MID-DEPLOYMENT" »
2/25/2011 By Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — “When my dad was a grunt in the Marine Corps several years ago, he was gone all the time,” said Tolondra Johnson, family readiness officer with 5th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF. During these absences, her entire family struggled, she added.
Continue reading "Unit, Personal, Family Readiness Program supports Marines, sailors" »
2/25/2011 By Lance Cpl. Heather N. Choate , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — Marines with Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, conducted a two-day basic demolition training package for junior Marines and sailors in the battalion.
Continue reading "EOD Marines conduct basic demolition range" »
By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland
Marine Corps Bases Japan
HIJUDAI TRAINING AREA, Japan, Feb. 24, 2011 – People who feel under the weather see a doctor. If a dog isn’t feeling well, a visit to the veterinarian is in order. If an M777 howitzer is on the fritz, Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Rivera is the man to call.
Story by Lance Cpl. Garry Welch | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.04.2011
With cargo and personnel aboard ship, III Marine Expeditionary Force’s 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left Okinawa, Japan, for their spring deployment throughout the Asia-Pacific region, Jan. 29.
Story by Pfc. Mark Stroud | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 02.04.2011
CAMP SCHWAB, Japan - III Marine Expeditionary Force Marines recently had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the Marine Corps’ new SU-260/P Machine Gun Day Optic and Ruggedized Miniature Reflex Sight for the M240G medium machine gun.
1/28/2011 By Lance Cpl. Abigail M. Wharton , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — The tax center here will open for all active duty service members, their families and Department of Defense employees starting Feb. 1.
Continue reading "Foster tax center opens for services Feb. 1" »
1/28/2011 By Lance Cpl. Michael Iams , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — The Marines of 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, hosted their annual St. Barbara celebration at the Butler Officers’ Club Jan. 15. Enlisted service members, officers, distinguished guests and their families gathered together for a night of entertainment and commemoration of the patron saint of artillery.
Story by Cpl. Megan Angel | III Marine Expeditionary Force Public Affairs | Date: 01.21.2011
OKINAWA, JapN - In an emergency, each and every moment thereafter is crucial and could be the difference between life and death.
Continue reading "911 Emergency calling procedures on Okinawa" »
1/14/2011 By Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa, Japan — It can happen in the blink of an eye. A traffic stop goes wrong. A detainee in Afghanistan tries to escape. A suspect violently resists arrest.
Continue reading "PMO Marines train for danger, uncertainty" »
1/11/2011 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU
KIN BLUE, OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is the only continually forward deployed MEU in the Marine Corps and is constantly training to be ready when called upon. Combat Logistics Battalion 31, the logistics arm of the 31st MEU, conducted its bi-annual exercise CLBEX, Jan. 5-12, to prepare for the upcoming deployment of the Asia-Pacific Region.
Continue reading "Building camaraderie, sharpening skill: CLB-31prepares for upcoming deployment" »
1/11/2011 By Capt. Caleb Eames , 31st MEU
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — With a high operational tempo, frequent personnel turnover, and plenty of work to be done between deployments, one might think Marines of Combat Logistics Battalion 31, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, would not have time to put a mess night together during the holiday season.
Continue reading "Motivated Cpl helps CLB-31 hold mess night during busy period" »
1/10/2011 By Capt. Caleb D. Eames , 31st MEU
KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa, Japan — The most decorated infantry battalion in the Marine Corps has arrived over the past week from Camp Pendleton, Calif., to join the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit as the new battalion landing team, with the final flight landing here Jan. 10.
Continue reading "Corps’ most decorated unit joins 31st MEU" »
11/29/2010 By Cpl. Michael A. Bianco , 31st MEU
WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, OKINAWA, Japan — The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit returned to Okinawa Nov. 23 after a nearly three-month deployment of the Asia-Pacific region.
11/24/2010 By Cpl. Aaron Hostutler , Marine Corps Bases Japan
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan — "I estimate there to be 3,500 of us out here this morning," said Brig. Gen. William D. Beydler, commanding general, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. "3,430 Marines lost their lives taking this island. I want you to think about what it is to be a U.S. Marine. I want you to think about your obligation to one another, your obligation to your unit, your obligation to our Corps and our country. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, attention! Commanders prepare your Marines and sailors for a march ... Follow me!"
11/5/2010 By Cpl. Kentavist P. Brackin , Marine Corps Bases Japan
CAMP GONSALVES, OKINAWA, Japan — More than 70 Marines from Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, took on the Jungle Warfare Training Center’s 3.8 mile Jungle Endurance Course Oct. 21 on Camp Gonsalves.
Continue reading "Artillery Marines endure JWTC’s challenge" »
11/4/2010 By Cpl. Kristin E. Moreno , Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — Marines of Combat Logistics Company 36 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 maintenance and utilities sections participated in water purification training at Penny Lake here Oct. 25-29.
Continue reading "5 days, 89,000 gallons: Marines train for disaster" »
11/4/2010 By Lance Cpl. Claudio A. Martinez , Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — Station members held a formation at the parade deck in front of Building 1 here Oct. 28 to recognize and award a local Marine for his bravery.
Continue reading "Heroism: Marine risks life to save others" »
10/29/2010 By Cpl. Rebekka S. Heite , Marine Corps Bases Japan
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan — Marines from Military Police Support Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF, worked together to familiarize five military working dogs with the CH-46 Sea Knight while static and in flight Oct. 15.
Continue reading "MP dogs, handlers prepare for deployment" »
More than 100 Marines from the Regional Corps Advisory Command returned Tuesday to a welcoming party of friends and family after a nine-month deployment to eastern Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Continue reading "Marines Stationed on Okinawa Return From Afghanistan" »
A new facility for military working dogs had its official opening April 5 on Camp Hansen.
Continue reading "New Kennel on Okinawa Expands Working Dogs' Capabilities" »
By David Allen and Chiyomi Sumida, Stars and Stripes
Online Edition, Friday, April 9, 2010
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — A live anti-tank explosive that was displayed in a home for 40 years and has sat in an Okinawa woman’s backyard for the past five months will be destroyed soon by a U.S. Marine Corps disposal team.
Continue reading "Marines to dispose of bomb kept inside home for 40 years" »
IWO TO, Japan – Hundreds of U.S. Marines landed on the remote island of Iwo Jima on Tuesday to prepare for the 65th anniversary of one of World War II's bloodiest and most iconic battles.
Continue reading "US Marines land on Iwo Jima to mark anniversary" »
NEW YORK — For a civilian it's a source of inspiration. For a photographer it's a dynamic study of composition and structure. For a historian it inspires debates on amphibious tactics and whether an island a third the size of Manhattan should have been bypassed in favor of other objectives.
Continue reading "The picture of Marines: past and present" »
TOKYO (AP) — A magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit off Japan's southern coast early Saturday, shaking Okinawa and nearby islands, where a tsunami warning was briefly issued, Japan's Meteorological Agency said.
Continue reading "Magnitude 6.9 earthquake shakes southern Japan, tsunami warning issued" »
By Leo Shane III, Stars and Stripes
Stars and Stripes online edition, Thursday, January 7, 201
WASHINGTON — Military members serving overseas will have to resubmit their voter registration this year if they hope to cast a ballot in the November midterm elections.
Continue reading "Overseas military will have to register again to get ballots this year" »
By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer
Posted : Sunday Dec 13, 2009 9:07:21 EST
8,600 Marines to come from Okinawa
Navy officials have outlined their plans to build a Marine Corps base in Guam and expeditionary field training sites on the nearby island of Tinian, measures meant to support the relocation of 8,600 Marines from Okinawa beginning in 2014.
The Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted a combination of exercises and operations during its 2009 patrols of the Asia-Pacific region.
Sometimes the best way to win hearts and minds is to take care of the teeth.
Continue reading "In East Timor, teeth are a military mission for Camp Pendleton forces" »
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan (October 6, 2009) -- In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ketsana that struck the Republic of the Philippines Sept. 25, U.S. Marines and Sailors based in Japan have come to the aid of the Philippine people.
Continue reading "Full Steam Ahead for Humanitarian Assistance Operations in Pacific Region" »
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, Japan, Oct. 2, 2009 – The U.S. military is providing critically needed disaster-relief supplies to mitigate suffering and prevent further loss of life in the wake of Tropical Storm Ketsana, which struck the Philippines on Sept. 25.
Continue reading "Marines, Sailors Bring Aid to Philippines" »
Thousands could go. What you need to know.
By Dan Lamothe
Staff writer
Sep. 28, 2009
The Corps is planning to send more Marines to Japan, with an artillery battery arriving before the end of the month and entire battalions eventually expected to deploy for regular six-month tours.
By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, February 22, 2009
CAMP SCHWAB, Okinawa — Tears as well as chuckles filled the small chapel here Friday during a memorial service for Sgt. Michael H. Ferschke Jr.
Continue reading "Marines and family gather to recall sergeant who saved comrade’s lives" »
OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 26, 2009) -- — The commandant of the Republic of Korea’s Marine Corps, Lt. Gen. Lee Hong-Hee visited the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Hansen Jan. 23.
by Cpl Jose Lujano
Date Taken:10.30.2012 | Date Posted:11.08.2012 02:19
CAMP SCHWAB, Japan - Assault amphibious vehicles head 500 meters out from the shores of an Okinawa beach. The AAVs come to a sudden halt, and about 10 Marines and sailors from each AAV leap into the waters in succession.
Continue reading "Surf qualification brings Marines back to amphibious roots" »
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan — The BLT, currently the ground combat element for the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, focused the training on mastering basic tactics and skills of an infantry unit to better prepare them to handle combat and humanitarian operations.
Continue reading "BLT 3/1 patrols on Hansen, works on skill sustainment" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Feb. 8, 2008) -- After Cpl. Tom Saba, a crew chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, died in a CH-46 Sea Knight crash Feb. 7, 2007 in Iraq, his parents found a photo on his computer.
Continue reading "Web site allows Okinawa Marines to share stories with fallen Marine’s parents" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Feb. 8, 2008) -- After Cpl. Tom Saba, a crew chief with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, died in a CH-46 Sea Knight crash Feb. 7, 2007 in Iraq, his parents found a photo on his computer.
Continue reading "Web site allows Okinawa Marines to share stories with fallen Marine’s parents" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (Dec. 7, 2007) -- The throaty rumble of more than 130 motorcycles paraded through the air station with toys fastened to their storage racks to be delivered at the 60th annual Toys for Tots campaign kickoff at the Hornet’s Nest here Sunday morning.
Continue reading "60th Toys for Tots campaign takes spin in Iwakuni" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Nov. 26, 2007) -- The street in front of the Vehicle Registration Office on Camp Foster was dedicated as Captain Brock Road during a ceremony Nov. 16.
Continue reading "Camp Foster road renamed in honor of fallen Marine" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Nov. 2, 2007) -- Coordinators and volunteers with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program on Okinawa will be working overtime during the holiday season to extend the reach of the 60-year-old charity in the region.
Continue reading "Toys for Tots program expands giving boundaries" »
KURMITOLA AIR BASE, Bangladesh (November 2, 2007) -- Morning mist rose above a jungle-bound airfield in Bangladesh Oct. 25 as aircraft from Marine Fighter-Attack Squadron 314 and the Bangladesh Air Force revved to life to start a day of flight operations during Exercise Sumo Tiger 2007.
Continue reading "MAG-12 Marines kick off Sumo Tiger in Bangladesh" »
CAMP FOSTER, Japan – Lance Cpl. Alexander Karman is waiting around the barracks for his friends to finish up so they can head to the gym and a karaoke joint just outside the gates. This is Karman's last payday on Okinawa, and he has to report back for duty at 3 a.m.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (Aug. 8, 2007) -- Last week station residents braced for Typhoon Usagi, which made landfall early Friday, bringing rain and wind to the station.
Continue reading "Station residents dodge second storm of season" »
By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, June 22, 2007
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Marines in Japan are under new leadership after a change-of-command ceremony here Wednesday evening.
Continue reading "Marines based in Japan, Okinawa get new leader" »
CAMP LESTER, Okinawa (June 15, 2007) -- Officials with the Armed Service Blood Program are looking for donors to contribute blood to bolster their depleting supply.
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa (May 18, 2007) -- To help better serve the Marines on Okinawa, the Marine Corps Base Headquarters and Service Battalion Installation Personnel Administration Center has extended its hours.
Continue reading "IPAC's extended hours help Marines on tight timelines" »
By Fred Zimmerman, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, April 5, 2006
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — It’s been six months since the Marine Corps implemented new yearly rifle range training standards, and according to a range officer here, the service is right on target.
Continue reading "Changes to annual rifle training put Marines on target" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan(Feb. 23, 2007) -- The element of surprise can be a key factor in making a training scenario realistic. To maintain this element, members of Marine Air Control Group 18 established the White Cell to plot against participants in a Tactical Air Command Center drill at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Feb. 8-9.
Continue reading " White Cell keeps MACG-18 Marines on their toes" »
More than 100 Marines and sailors from Mike Battery, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, departed the Combat Center for a six-month deployment to Okinawa, Japan, Monday.
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (July 28, 2006) -- Hospital Corpsmen with B Company, 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, overcame whatever fear they had of hurdling themselves off the edge of a 60-foot rappel tower during Helicopter Rope Suspension Training on Camp Hansen July 19.
By Cindy Fisher, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, July 14, 2006
CAMP FOSTER — Okinawa is a haven for outdoor activities during summer, but also a place where some dangerous land and sea critters can put a serious crimp in the fun.
Continue reading "List of summer dangers on Okinawa includes poisonous habu snakes" »
NAHA CITY, OKINAWA, Japan (June 23, 2006) -- The Japan Good Conduct Association recognized Marines, sailors and Okinawans for their contributions to the Okinawan community at the Japan Agriculture Mawashi Center June 17.
Continue reading "Marines receive Japan Good Conduct Award" »
KIN RED PORT, OKINAWA, Japan (May 12, 2006) -- More than 150 Marines and sailors with K Battery, 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, and Combat Logistics Platoon 3 departed for Thailand aboard the high-speed vessel Westpac Express May 8 to participate in Exercise Cobra Gold 2006.
Continue reading "Division Marines depart for Cobra Gold aboard HSV" »
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — A former Japan Self-Defense Force leader has cautioned against any deep cuts in the number of Marines stationed on Okinawa.
Continue reading "Ex-JSDF chief warns against moving Marines off Okinawa" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan(Nov. 30, 2005) -- Service members with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 hosted 33 Okinawan children for a Thanksgiving celebration in Hangar 533 Nov. 23.
Continue reading "Aviation Marines break Thanksgiving bread with family, local children" »
SHINKIARI, Pakistan(Nov. 30, 2005) -- It’s 4:30 a.m. and while the rest of the camp is asleep, the cooks and food service specialists awaken in their pitch-dark tents, grab flashlights and step out into the piercing 40-degree weather.
Continue reading "Four Okinawa Marines prepare meals for hundreds in Pakistan" »
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Thursday, November 24, 2005
CAMP KINSER, Okinawa — Marines here are the best administrative team in the Pacific.
Continue reading "Camp Kinser Marines ace administration inspection" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan(Nov. 22, 2005) -- Fifteen turkeys, 10 hams, 560 dinner rolls, 32 pies and heaps of side dishes, drinks and other desserts might seem like a lot of food, but for one Provost Marshal’s Office Marine, it’s just enough.
Continue reading "PMO Marine goes above and beyond for Thanksgiving" »
By David Allen, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Saturday, November 12, 2005
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — It threatened to rain during Thursday’s celebration of the Marine Corps’ 230th birthday. But that didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits.
Continue reading "Marines on Okinawa mark Corps' 230th birthday" »
Lance Cpl. Marco N. Adams joins other Marines from Camp Hansen and Kin Town Chamber of Commerce members in tilling soil around a topiary during a highway beautification project.
Warren Peace / Courtesy of USMC
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, November 4, 2005
CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa — One thing every Marine hears when he or she first arrives on Okinawa is that being a good neighbor is just as important as being a good Marine.
Continue reading "Camp Hansen Marines help spruce up Kin Town" »
Change will be implemented over the next six years
By Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, October 31, 2005
ARLINGTON, Va. — Under a plan to realign U.S. and Japanese forces, 7,000 Marines would move from Okinawa to Guam and carrier jets and E-2 Hawkeye aircraft would move from Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, top U.S. and Japanese officials announced Saturday.
Continue reading "U.S. agrees to move 7,000 Marines from Okinawa to Guam" »
Withdrawal follows years of complaints from local residents
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan(Oct. 25, 2005) -- Brig. Gen. Frank A. Panter, the commanding general of 3rd Marine Logistics Group, presents the Bronze Star to Master Gunnery Sgt. Robert J. Williams in front of the MLG headquarters building Oct. 24.
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 25, 2005) -- Fifty-seven sailors on seven eight-man island-wide teams met here Oct. 17 for a five-day competition that evaluated their field capabilities under varying degrees of physical and mental stress.
Continue reading "Battle Skills Competition calls for teamwork" »
KIN TOWN, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 25, 2005) -- A local nursing home shared an ancient Japanese tradition with a Marine Corps unit Oct. 15, showing them gratitude for their help.
Continue reading "Marines get first-hand view of Okinawan culture" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI,Japan (Oct. 14, 2005) -- When one thinks of the term gladiator, ancient barbaric fighters in Rome usually come to mind. The violent fighters engaged in mortal combat within public arenas, entertaining thousands. They were occasionally known to fight to the death, and were pitted against their peers, wild animals and slaves.
Continue reading "President's Challenge brings "pt" to new level - gladiator style" »
CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 20, 2005) -- Marines from the Camp Butler Provost Marshal’s Office have been battered, bruised, waterlogged and caked in mud and sand every Tuesday for the past month.
Continue reading "PMO negotiates Schwab obstacle courses, learn weapons systems" »
CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan(Oct. 20, 2005) -- Spending months in numerous locations across the Pacific may sound like vacation paradise for some people, but for the Marines and civilians who work for the Tactical Exercise Control Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, travel is part of the job.
CAMP HANSEN (Oct 20, 2005) -- Thirty Marines and sailors attended the Tactical Combat Causality Care Course given by III Marine Expeditionary Force's Special Operation Training Group at Camp Hansen Oct. 11-14.
Continue reading "First responders learn to save lives in heat of battle" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 20, 2005) -- Third Marine Logistics Group’s Tactics Readiness Training section welcomed members of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) to use their indoor simulated marksmanship trainer (ISMT) Oct. 6.
Continue reading "JGSDF gets marksmanship training from Marines" »
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 18, 2005) -- At first glance he might not seem like the most approachable man with his cauliflower ears, brutish build and aggressive nature on the wrestling mat, but Sgt. Jacob A. Clark has devoted a large amount of his free time to helping others.
Continue reading "Marine Corps Athlete of the Year stands out in crowd" »
Exercises aim for better assessment of arms proficiency
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Monday, October 17, 2005
Three elements of the 12th Marines — Company B, 1st Battalion; Company L, 3rd Battalion; and Headquarters Battery, 3rd Battalion — will take part in an exercise called Fuji Combined Arms Operation, according to Marine Corps public affairs. (3/11)
Continue reading "12th Marines engage in live-fire training at Fuji" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI,Japan (Oct. 14, 2005) -- Andrew Clark, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Specialists and native of Lakeville Minn., Steven G. Lightsey, ARFF and native of Birmingham, Ala., Daniel L. Kline, ARFF and native of Lewisburg, Pa., Lee H. Crowell, ARFF and native of Houston, paddle their way through the pool on a raft during the Marine Corps Community Services' Gladiator Ultimate Unit Physical Training Challenge, Oct. 14. (Pics on website)
Continue reading "Marines paddle to first place in Presidential Challenge" »
CENTRAL TRAINING AREA, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 11, 2005) -- Cpl. Martinez Gregory drinks water from a canteen attached to his M40 chemical/biological protective mask during nuclear, biological and chemical confidence training...
Continue reading "Okinawa Marines wear heavy 'suits' during chemical training" »
Japan and the United States has agreed in principle on a string of measures concerning the relocation of US troops and facilities in Japan, including moving the headquarters of a Marine force in the Okinawa prefecture to Guam, a Japanese newspaper reported Sunday.
Continue reading "US to move Marine HQ in Okinawa to Guam: report" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 7, 2005) -- Every Marine is a trained rifleman, something the Corps takes a lot of pride in. However, in order to accomplish the Marine Corps’ mission, there are countless jobs that require Marines trained in many different military occupational specialties. A Marine Corps welder is one unique example.
Continue reading "Marine welders example of Corps’ diversity, versatility" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Oct. 5, 2005) -- For performing their duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner, three members of 3rd Materiel Readiness Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, were awarded Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals at Roberts Field on Camp Kinser Sept. 30.
Continue reading "Marines, sailor save fellow devil dog’s life" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan (Sep. 30, 2005) -- More than 40 corpsmen and nurses from units all over Okinawa spent Sept. 26-28 learning about the En Route Care System (ERCS) during the 26-hour Naval En Route Care (NERC) course.
Continue reading "Corpsmen, nurses take to the sky, treat fallen Marines" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 28, 2005) -- Students from Kinser Elementary School show off some of the money they have collected to support the ongoing relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina, the most destructive tropical storm in recorded U.S. history, in the school’s lunchroom Sept. 28.
Continue reading "Kinser students donate money for Katrina assistance" »
CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 29, 2005) -- More than 130 Japanese officer candidates visited an artillery battery to learn about Marine artillery Sept. 27.
The Marines with L Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, hosted cadets with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force as part of the Japanese Observer Program. The candidates were taught the functional areas of an artillery battery including a M-198 155mm Medium Towed Howitzer demonstration, and Marine Corps crew-served and personal weapons familiarization.
Continue reading "Japanese officer candidates get to the ‘Corps’ of artillery" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 29, 2005) -- Service members and their families shared a day of sunshine with members of the Urasoe City Chamber of Commerce to experience food, fun and games during the 3rd Kinser Family Friendship Day Sept. 24 at Roberts Field pavilion.
Continue reading "Americans, Okinawans come together to enjoy food, family" »
PYONGTAEK, South Korea(Sept. 29, 2005) -- Leaving Okinawa for a few weeks or months and traveling to another exotic southeast Asian country sounds like a great vacation, but not if you are going on a deployment and sleeping on cots in the jungle.
Continue reading "Supporting the warfighter: MCCS deploys with Okinawa Marines" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 28, 2005) -- Firefighters have a common enemy, regardless of the color of their uniform. Marines recently assisted airmen in order to maximize training against this dangerous foe.
Continue reading "Marines turn up the heat for airmen on Okinawa" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (Sept. 28, 2005) -- As you all may already know, the Torii Teller, your devoted, weekly reading material, is bidding its last hand, as this is the final hard-copy issue.
Continue reading "Out with the old...Torii Teller turns final page, transitions to Internet" »
U.S. MARINE CORPS FORCES PACIFIC, CAMP H. M. SMITH, Hawaii(Sept. 28, 2005) -- The U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, Security Augmentation Force conducted their first quarterly training exercise at the combat pistol course, Puuloa range, Sep. 23.
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, September 28, 2005
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Bases Okinawa, will host the 230-mile USMC Birthday Commemorative Run this year to honor the Marine Corps’ birthday.
Continue reading " Marines plan two-day, 230-mile run on Okinawa" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 25, 2005) -- Soaring through the clouds at nearly 25,000 feet off the ground and traveling more than 400 mph can give life a different look to life. Something different is exactly what one Marine stationed with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, wanted when he signed his enlistment papers.
Continue reading "Okinawa Marine shows maturity and professionalism in instructor billet" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 25, 2005) -- Soaring through the clouds at nearly 25,000 feet off the ground and traveling more than 400 mph can give life a different look. Something different is exactly what one Marine stationed with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, wanted when he signed his enlistment papers.
Continue reading "Marine's career soars high, keeps birds in the sky" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 25, 2005) -- Marines scheduled for the rifle range will see big changes to the marksmanship training program beginning Oct. 1.
Continue reading "New marksmanship training on Okinawa sets sights on combat readiness" »
CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 23, 2005) -- The senior leaders of 3rd Materiel Readiness Battalion, 3rd Force Service Support Group, recently announced to their Marines and sailors the success of their new mentorship program.
Continue reading "Okinawa Marine battalion implements new leadership style" »
CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 23, 2005) -- Fists flew fast and furious during the Open Karate Tournament at the Camp Foster Field House Sept. 11.
Continue reading "Martial artists break through language barrier in open karate tournament" »
NAHA, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 23, 2005) -- The feeling a batter gets when he hits a ball out of the park, and the crowd goes wild is more than words can describe. When more than 100 children stepped onto the field Saturday to start what would surely be a great day of hits, slides, dives and saves, no one really noticed that they spoke two different languages; baseball was speaking to everyone.
Continue reading "Marines, Okinawan ballplayers ‘hit it off’ in friendship game" »
KIN BLUE, OKINAWA, Japan(Sept. 23, 2005) -- Pacific Ocean waves tossed and flipped 17 Marines in their Zodiac boats as they participate in the Basic Coxswain Skills Course Sept. 8-28. (2/4)
GINOWAN CITY, OKINAWA, Japan -- Marines from Camp Foster and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Provost Marshal's Offices took part in martial arts training with Ginowan police officers at the Ginowan Police Department Sept. 7.
Continue reading "Marines, local police officers train together" »
NAHA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, Japan (Sep. 23, 2005) -- Eight Japan Air Self-Defense Force pilots and four Marine Corps pilots flew skirmishes together for the first time Sept. 7-9 in the skies above Okinawa.
Continue reading "Okinawa Marines, JASDF pilots take to the skies" »
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Friday, September 23, 2005
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Members of the Camp Kinser Young Marines showed their compassionate side recently as they raised more than $1,000 for the American Red Cross to support Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
Continue reading "Camp Kinser Young Marines raise $1,155 for Katrina relief" »
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (Sept. 21, 2005) -- A cry of cheers filled the stands as Kyle H. Ditto and his team ran on the field at their high school championship soccer game, one of the many memories from Ditto's younger years.
Continue reading "Pro soccer player follows father's footsteps" »
Hicks out to restock All-Armed Forces roster, improve on runner-up finish
By Dave Ornauer, Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Wednesday, September 21, 2005
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — Dan Hicks is seeking a few good men.
Continue reading "Marines wrestling coach scouring Corps for new recruits" »
OKINAWA, Japan (Sept. 16, 2005) -- Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit recently concluded a series of training exercises including its MEU Exercise 05 which ended Sep. 16, enabling the MEU to move closer to its goal of receiving its special operations capable designation.
The Pacific Ocean became the battleground for American service members during a mock conflict where they boarded and reclaimed a hijacked ship Sept. 9-11.
Continue reading "Marines, sailors siege ship in mock conflict training" »