InsI

deiii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

march 7, 2008 www.okinawa.usmc.mil

InsI

de

Consolidated Public Affairs Office

CAMP FOSTER — The “Period of Reflec-tion” has concluded and a 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew with alcohol restriction for all service members is in effect. There are no continuing limitations, restrictions or cur-few for civilians or family members.

The decision was made by Lt. Gen. Rich-ard C. Zilmer, the Okinawa Area Coordina-tor and senior U.S. military commander on Okinawa March 3rd, following a meeting with senior military and civilian leaders from all services.

“The curfew, coupled with ongoing coop-erative initiatives with our Japanese hosts at the national and local level, will offer the best atmosphere for our service members, family members and civilian employees while reducing the possibility and risk of misconduct,” said Zilmer.

Service members are limited to U.S. military installations or the off-base resi-dences of SOFA status personnel during curfew hours. However, they are authorized to transit between U.S. military installa-tions or off-base residences of SOFA status personnel during curfew hours via pri-vately owned vehicle, military supported transportation, or commercial taxi.

Service members are restricted from consuming alcohol off-base, except within the confines of the off-base residences of SOFA status personnel. There is no restric-tion on alcohol consumption aboard any U.S. base or installation for service mem-bers and there are no alcohol restrictions for civilians or family members.

The curfew and alcohol restrictions will be periodically reassessed by senior service leaders.

“As we begin to venture outside our gates, I remind all of you that we are guests in Japan and must represent our Nation with the utmost pride, professionalism and respect for our hosts. I know the overwhelming majority of you are great ambassadors of America and will strive to reinvigorate the great relationship we have with our Japanese neighbors,” Zilmer said. “Please look out for one another.”

Lance Cpl. Robert C. Frenkeokinawa marine staff

KADENA AIR BASE — More than 90 individual augment Marines, most with 3rd Marine Division, landed on Kadena Air Base Feb. 27, after returning from a seven-month deploy-ment to Iraq.

III Marine Expeditionary Force sent Marines to sup-port 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment out of Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, during the battalion’s deployment to Iraq.

The 3rd Marine Division augments came from Combat Assault Battalion, Headquar-

ters Battalion and 12th Ma-rines Regiment. The rest of the augments came from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, 3rd Marine Logistics Group and 3rd Intelligence Battalion, III MEF.

While in Iraq, the Marines served in missions throughout Fallujah, Ramadi and Anbar Province. They supported convoy security, logistics and training missions in addition to other combat operations, said 1st Lt. Jed Redeker, a platoon commander in Truck Company, Headquarters Bat-talion, 3rd Marine Division.

When the Marines f i rst

arrived in Iraq, one of their most difficult challenges was the threat of improvised ex-plosive devices, but those threats eventually decreased, said Gunnery Sgt. Raymundo Muro, the company gunnery sergeant for Security Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd MLG.

All the Marines said they were happy to be home and able to see friends and family.

“It’s outstanding to be home. It’ll be even better when I get to see my wife and kids,” Redeker said. “I missed a lot of birth-days while I was gone, but I’m going to make them up now.”

Period of reflection ends; curfew in place for service members

Maj. Gen. Robert B. Neller, 3rd Marine Division commanding general, greets Okinawa Marines who returned from Iraq Feb. 27 at Kadena Air Base. The Marines served as individual augments attached to 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment for seven months. Photo by Lance Cpl. Robert C. Frenke

Individual augments return after 7-month Iraq deployment

mastering HrstFuji, Okinawa units send 16 Marines to learn helicopter rope suspension techniques.

pg. 8

bloody HellScreaming role players test 3rd Medical Battalion during field exercise.

pg. 10

sHuri castleShuri Castle Park houses centuries of Okinawan history.

pg. 13

okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008 �

AL TAqADDuM, Iraq Seaman Jarred W.

Jones, a utilitiesman with Naval Mobile

Construction Battalion 1, Detachment Al

Taqaddum, applies adhesive to a sheet of

flooring for the new chapel the Seabees are working on at Combat

Outpost Ready. The building will replace the chapel that was

destroyed by an electrical fire a few

months ago. Photo by Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow

corpsfor more marine corps stories and photos, visit http://www.marines.mil

around the

RODRIGuez LIve FIRe COMPLex, Republic of Korea | Sgt. Dameon L. Groves, with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, teaches ROK Marines cover techniques March 4. Groves is one of about 300 Marines participating in exercise Foal eagle. Photo by Cpl. G.P. Ingersoll

TACCRA, Ghana | Marines with the 2nd Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team europe, from Naval Air Station Rota, Spain, play soccer with students from local schools Feb. 19. The Marines were part of a joint task force supporting President Bush’s trip to several African nations Feb. 15-21. Photo by Air Force Tech Sgt. Denise Johnson

CAMP PeNDLeTON, Calif. | Marines from I Battery, Battalion Landing Team 2/5, hold back civilian role players during a humanitarian assistance operation exercise at Kilo 2 Area Combat town. The battery provided security during the exercise in support of the 15th Marine expeditionary unit, which was undergoing a series of exercises designed to prepare it for an upcoming planned deployment. Photo by Cpl. Kevin McCall

The Okinawa Marine is published by Marine Corps Community Services under exclusive written contract with Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan.

The editorial content of this newspaper is edited and approved by the Consolidated Public Affairs Office of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler.

This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of military services stationed overseas, at sea and their families. Its contents do not necessarily ref lect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the U.S. Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement thereof.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense,

the U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler or Marine Corps Community Services of the products and services advertised.

Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are “official U.S. Marine Corps photos.” For more information, e-mail us at okinawamarine.mcbb.fct@usmc.mil or write to us at Public Affairs Office, H&S BN MCB PAO, Unit 35002, FPO AP 96373-5002.

Commanding general Maj. Gen. Mary Ann Krusa-Dossin

PubliC affairs direCtor Lt. Col. Douglas M. Powell

Press offiCer 2nd Lt. Doy T. D. Demsick

Press Chief Gunnery Sgt. William J. Ray

design editor Sgt. Ethan E. Rocke

editor Cpl. Warren Peace

okinawa marine newsPaPerH&S Battalion MCB PAO

Unit 35002FPO AP 96373-5002

Central bureau ChiefCpl. Juan D. Alfonso

Camp Foster, DSN 645-7422

northern bureau ChiefLance Cpl. Kevin M. Knallay

Camp Hansen, DSN 623-4054

To submIT an opInIon or edITorIal, e-maIl us aT okInaWamarIne.mcbb.fcT@usmc.mIl

okinawa marine | opInIon & edITorIal | march 7, 2008 �

fact check Sea Service/OverSeaS deplOyment ribbOnS

Why are some Okinawa Marines eligible to receive both the Sea Service Deployment and the Overseas Service Ribbons?

According to Marine Administrative Message 582/03, to receive the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Marines

must complete 12 months outside the continental United States as a member of a Fleet Marine Force command, also known as deployable units. According to Secretary of the Navy Letter 1650, all active duty personnel serving a consecutive or accumulative 12-month tour at an overseas shore or base duty station are eligible for the Overseas Service Ribbon. Marines on Okinawa will sometimes serve in both a deployable unit and a base unit during their tours here.

Q:a:

help your baby sleep through the nightSubmitted by Lifelines

if you haven’t had a good night’s sleep since your baby was born, you’re not alone. Sleepless nights are a rite of passage for

most new parents. But don’t despair. You can help your baby sleep all night. Honestly!

developing a rhythmNewborns sleep 16 or more hours a day, but

often in stretches of just one to two hours at a time. Although the pattern may be erratic

at first, a more consistent sleep schedule will emerge

as your baby’s nervous system matures and he or she goes longer between feedings.

By age 3 months, many babies sleep up to five hours during the night. By age 6 months, nighttime stretches of nine to 12 hours are possible.

encouraging good sleep habitsFor the first few months, middle-of-the-

night feedings are sure to disrupt sleep for parents and babies alike. But it’s never too soon to help your baby become a good sleeper.

Encourage activity during the day. When your baby is awake, engage him or her by talking, singing and playing. Surround your baby with light and normal household noises. Such stimulation during the day can help promote better sleep at night.

Monitor your baby's naps. Regular naps are important — but sleeping for large chunks of time during the day may leave your baby wide awake at bedtime.

Follow a consistent bedtime routine. Try relaxing favorites such as bathing, cuddling, singing or reading. Soon your baby will as-sociate these activities with sleep. If you play bedtime music, choose the same tunes each time you put your baby in the crib.

Put your baby to bed drowsy, but awake. This will help your baby associate bed with the process of falling asleep. Remember to place your baby to sleep on his or her back, and clear the crib or bassinet of blankets and other soft items.

Give your baby time to settle down. Your baby may fuss or cry before finding a comfort-able position and falling asleep. If the crying doesn’t stop, speak to your baby calmly and stroke his or her back. Your reassuring pres-ence may be all your baby needs to fall asleep.

Consider a pacifier. If your baby has trouble settling down, a pacifier might do the trick. In fact, using a pacifier during sleep may reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But there are pitfalls, too. If your baby uses a pacifier to sleep, you may face frequent middle-of-the-night crying spells when the pacifier falls out of your baby’s mouth.

Expect frequent stirring at night. Babies of-ten wriggle, squirm and twitch in their sleep.

They can be noisy, too. Sometimes fussing or crying is simply a sign of settling down. Un-less you suspect that your baby is hungry or uncomfortable, it’s OK to wait a few minutes to see what happens.

Keep nighttime care low-key. When your baby needs care or feeding during the night, use dim lights, a soft voice and calm move-ments. This will tell your baby that it’s time to sleep — not play.

Respect your baby's preferences. If your baby is a night owl or an early bird, you might want to adjust routines and schedules based on these natural patterns.

keeping it in perspectiveSome babies sleep for long stretches at

night right from the start, only waking for feedings. Others have trouble lulling them-selves back to sleep. Take as much time as you need to understand your baby’s schedule and ways of communicating.

If you’re frustrated with your baby’s sleep-ing habits — especially if your baby still needs attention several times during the night by age 6 months — ask your baby’s doctor for suggestions.

Remember, getting your baby to sleep through the night isn’t a measure of your pa-rental skills. It’s simply a goal you’re working toward. The result will be a good night’s sleep for everyone.

commentary

Submitted by Lifelines

While we often consider sleep to be a “passive” activity, sufficient

sleep is increasingly being recognized as an essential aspect of health promo-tion and chronic disease prevention in the public health community.

Insufficient sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases and conditions—such as diabetes, cardio-vascular disease, obesity, and depres-sion—which threaten our nation’s health. Notably, insufficient sleep is associated with the onset of these diseases and also poses important im-plications for their management and outcome. Moreover, insufficient sleep is responsible for motor vehicle and

machinery-related accidents, causing substantial injury and disability each year. In short, drowsy driving can be as dangerous—and preventable—as driving while intoxicated.

Notably, more than one-quarter of the U.S. population report occasion-ally not getting enough sleep, while nearly 10% experience chronic insom-nia.

However, new methods for assess-ing and treating sleep disorders bring hope to the millions suffering from insufficient sleep. Fundamental to the success of all of these efforts is the recognition that sufficient sleep is not a luxury—it is a necessity—and should be thought of as a “vital sign” of good health.

Sleep and sleep disorders: A public health challenge

� okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008

briefs

animal adoPtion eVent The Okinawan-American Animal Rescue

Society will hold an adoption event March 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Camp Courtney near the Exchange. Adopt a homeless dog or cat that needs a loving, caring home. An adoption fee may apply.

marriage retreatThe next Marriage Enrichment Retreat

will take place March 28-30. The retreat will provide couples the tools to communi-cate more effectively and work as a team to preserve and enhance love, commitment and friendship. These events give couples qual-ity time together in a beautiful, stress-free environment and are great opportunities for all-expenses-paid, fun-filled getaways, during which they build on the strengths of their relationship.

Sign-up by March 21. For more informa-tion, call 645-3041.

reserVe angliCo oPPortunityFor transitioning active duty and reserve

Marine officers seeking a new challenge, 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Marine Forces Reserve, West Palm Beach, Fla. has opportunities for company grade officers in any MOS to serve as artillery officers and joint tactical air controllers. Retraining is available.

Air officer and forward air controller bil-lets are also available for both company and junior field-grade officers who currently hold a 75XX MOS.

Contact Staff Sgt. Lanese at raymond.lanese@usmc.mil or (800) 267-5451 or (786) 282-8364.

suiCide PreVention workshoP The Chaplain’s Religious Enrichment

Development Operation will host a suicide awareness and prevention workshop for leaders at all levels March 27 at the Chapel Center on Camp Foster from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Each of the major subordinate commands on Okinawa is allocated 10 seats in the work-shop, with the exception of III MHG, which has five seats.

Sign up by March 19. For more information, contact CREDO at 645-3041.

imCea golf tournamentThe Oki Doki Chapter of the International

Military Community Executives Association will hold an Invitational Golf Tournament March 28 at Awase Meadows Golf Course. It is a best-ball team tournament.

Those interested can download a registra-tion form at www.freewebs.com/imceaokidoki/ and fax it to 645-5820. Teams must RSVP by March 1 and pay by March 15.

Entry fees include green fees, golf cart, lunch and awards. Participation will help the association’s 2008 scholarship fund.

For more information, call 645-5820.

nosCo sCholarshiPsThe Naval Officers’ Spouses’ Club is of-

fering scholarships to eligible Navy military family members on Okinawa.

A full application package is available at http://www.noscokinawa.com or from the Navy Fleet Gift Shop at Camp Lester. The application deadline is March 31.

TO SuBMIT A BRIeF, send an e-mail to okinawamarine.mcbb.fct@usmc.mil, or fax your request to 645-3803. The deadline for submitting a brief is noon every Friday. The Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit all submitted material.

Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgettokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Sgt. Maj. Michael Tuttle passed his duties as 1st Marine Aircraft Wing sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Devell Durham during a post and relief ceremony in front of Building 1 on Camp Foster Feb. 29.

Tuttle, who served with 1st MAW since July 2006, retired during the ceremony and plans to settle in his home state of Maine.

Durham assumed his current duties af-ter serving as the sergeant major for Marine Aircraft Group 12, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni.

Durham enlisted in the Marine Corps June 1980. After graduating recruit training at Ma-rine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., he was assigned to Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Facility, Quantico, Va.

In October 1985, he reported to MCRD Parris Island, where he served as a drill instructor, history instructor and senior drill instructor and received his promotion to staff sergeant. During November 1987, he was transferred to the Armed Forces Staff College, Norfolk, Va., where he served as the enlisted aide to the com-mandant of the college.

In August 1989, he transferred to Marine Barracks 8th & I, Washington D.C., where he served as the training chief for Headquarters and Services Company, 8th & I.

After becoming a landing support special-ist in November 1991, Durham reported to 3rd Landing Support Battalion, 3rd Force Service Support Group, Okinawa, where he served as platoon commander and company gunnery sergeant, while deploying for Exercise Valiant Usher in the Philippines and for Exercise Val-iant Blitz 1993 in Pusan, Korea.

During January 1994, Durham reported to 2nd LSB, 2nd FSSG, Camp Lejeune, N.C., where he served as legal chief during Operation Re-store/Uphold Democracy in Haiti.

Tuttle passes torch to durham as 1st maW posts new sergeant major

Sgt. Maj. Devell Durham Jr., the new sergeant major for 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, speaks during the post and relief ceremony in front of Building 1 on Camp Foster Feb. 29, during which he replaced Sgt. Maj. Michael Tuttle. Photos by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett

In August 2000, Durham transferred to Headquarters Battery 3rd Bn., 12th Marines, 3rd Marine Division.

Durham was transferred to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, MAG-36, 1st MAW in March 2001 as the squadron sergeant major. He participated in Balikatan 2001 in the Philippines, Cobra Gold 2002 and 2003 in Thai-land, and Southern Frontier 2003 in Australia.

While serving with Marine Aviation Logis-tics Squadron 12, MAG-12, 1st MAW, Durham was a member of the 2006 Gunnery Sergeant Selection Board.

After that, Durham assumed duties as MAG-12’s sergeant major, serving as senior enlisted advisor to the first Navy captain to command a Marine fixed wing aircraft group.

Durham’s personal awards and decorations include a Meritorious Service Medal with gold star device, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star device, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and various unit and service awards.

(Right to left) Sgt. Maj. Michael Tuttle, Sgt. Maj. Devell Durham Jr., and Col. Gary Shaw salute the colors during the post and relief ceremony.

okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008 �

Kubasaki teachers host open house to promote career choices for high school students

31st MEU, Philippine troops conduct combined arms training during Balikatan

Marines from the 31st Marine expeditionary unit’s Battalion Landing Team and Philippine soldiers from the 68th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division discuss their objective during a combined arms live-fire exercise Feb. 27 that was part of Balikatan. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Johansen Laurel

Lance Cpl. David Rogersokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Professional technical studies teachers with Kubasaki High School hosted the school’s first Professional Technical Studies Open House Night Feb. 28 at the school library.

The open house was part of the Department of De-fense Dependent Schools career pathways program, a program designed in 2001 to help students select a career path and take courses that will start them on that path, according to Darren Shaver, a professional technical studies teacher with Kubasaki.

The teachers organized the event to promote career awareness, consisting of a series of technical classes relating to job fields such as architecture, technology and business.

“The biggest problem is getting the information to the kids and parents that is what we’re doing here,” Shaver said. “Some of (the job fields) are not getting publicized very well because it’s difficult to under-stand what they are.”

Shaver said it is important students begin their study in a job field in order to help students decide a career path early and help promote a smoother transi-tion into college.

“If a student is interested in engineering, (the pro-gram) gives them a breakthrough at the high school level,” said Jon Walden, another professional technical studies teacher at Kubasaki. “This is what engineering is about. Do you want to go on to be an engineer? You can’t get out of high school and go be an engineer, but at least you know what you’re getting into.”

Shaver also said that students need to begin their studies in the career pathways to stay in touch with today’s constantly changing work force. During the past 30 years, America’s job market has shifted from manufacturing related jobs to service related jobs.

“There is a huge demand for computer programmers, information technology service workers, and technical jobs of all kinds,” Shaver said. “There is also a really huge demand in the health services sector. The nature of jobs is not always the same either. 10 years ago, every teacher did not have a computer on their desk. 10 years ago, every police officer did not have a computer in their squad car. It’s not just that the jobs themselves are changing but that the jobs that still exist are also transforming into something different.”

Nicholas Manuel, an 11th-grade-student at Kuba-saki, is currently in a computer programming pathway. He wants to go to college and be hired into an informa-tion technology job where he can design software for companies in need.

“I think it’s prepared me a lot for college,” Manuel said. “Most people who want to go the (information technology) pathway in college have never taken any previous classes. But college students, I know, are say-ing you need to take classes in high school because if you wait until college you’ll have a lot to catch up on. There are certain things the college professors expect you to already know. And if you don’t, they have to teach you from scratch.”

By Staff Sgt. Marc Ayalin 31st marine expeditionary unit

CROW VALLEY, Philippines – Amidst the tropical heat of the Philippines, Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and service members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines conducted a com-bined-arms live-fire exercise here Feb 27.

The day long exercise, which was part of Exercise Balikatan 2008, involved more than 500 service members from 2nd Bat-talion, 4th Marine Regiment, serving as the MEU’s Battalion Landing Team, and Philippine service members.

The exercise was designed to integrate the Philippine military with the Marines in a combined-arms scenario and expose them to the benefits of integrated fires, according to 1st Sgt. Charles Hutto with Headquarters and Service Company, BLT 2nd Bn., 4th Marines.

“Our Marines and the Philippine service members did well today using mortars, mechanized assets and a combined forward assault element to reach multiple objectives during the exercise,” Hutto said.

Throughout the day, the BLT used 7-ton trucks, Humvees, Assault Amphibian Vehicles and Light Armored Vehicles to push through to their objectives against simulated enemy targets.

During the training, a Philippine Marine platoon of 81mm mortarmen from the 50th Marine Company, Marine BLT 10, honed their supporting arms skills by conducting timed gun drills and also assisting U.S. Ma-rines during actual live-firing scenarios.

For Staff Sgt. Francisco Gonzalez, an 81mm mortar platoon sergeant with Weapons Co., BLT 2nd Bn., 4th Marines, helping to prepare the Philippine mor-tarmen for future combat missions was very rewarding.

“This was a great opportunity for us to show the Filipinos the procedures that are

most effective in combat,” Gonzalez said. “As a result, the platoon has established some of our tactics as standard operating procedure.”

Throughout the exercise, the American and Philippine troops supported each other with machinegun fire from armored vehicles and indirect fire from mortars.

During the final objective, Philippine sol-diers assaulted enemy positions, integrating new tactics and sharpening old ones.

“This exercise was good training be-cause it helped us better our overall tactics and become better prepared to protect our own country,” said Philippine Army Cpl. Antonio Calimguim, B Co., 68th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division.

Balikatan, which concluded March 3, was designed to improve interoper-ability between the U.S. and Philippine militaries.

Pfc. William Stacey and Philippine Marine Cpl. Catalino Alcubilla, both 81mm mortar men, adjust their fire during the exercise. Photo by Staff Sgt. Marc Ayalin

� okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008

marine Corps base dominates far east division matches

SOTG certifies HRST masters Sgt. Kevin D. Parish teaches self-belay techniques to a student in the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Master Course Feb. 29 on Camp Hansen. Photos by Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein

Competitors aim in on targets Feb. 26 during the final shooting day of the Far east Division Matches.

Lance Cpl. Robert C. Frenkeokinawa marine staff

CAMP HANSEN — The Far East Division Matches came to a close Feb. 29 when Maj. Gen. Robert B. Neller, the 3rd Marine Division com-manding general, awarded the high shooters of the indi-vidual and team matches for both rifle and pistol during an award ceremony at the Camp Hansen Theater.

Eleven teams, consisting of more than 160 Marines from all over the Pacific, participated in the 107th Di-vision Matches Feb. 4-27.

Marine Corps Base Camp Butler won the team matches for both the M-9 pistol and M-16A2 service rifle com-petitions. MCB also took the majority of the individual silver and gold medals.

The high score for in-dividual pistol was Capt. Chris Eichner, a shooter with 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group. Eichner also took fourth place in the individ-ual rifle competition. It was the first time he took gold in match competition.

“This is the third Division Match I’ve participated in, and I’ve gotten better every time,” Eichner said. “My secret is consistency.”

The high shooter for indi-vidual rifle was Sgt. Geoffrey Furgason from the MCB team. He also took 5th in in-dividual pistol competition.

Last year, the individual and team M-9 pistol and M-16A2 rifle portions were structured to more closely emulate combat, which in-

cluded combat shooting, according to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark W. Clark, the Marine Corps Base range of-ficer and a shooter for MCB. This year they added known distance shooting and en-gaging targets in combat conditions.

Other changes this year included Marines quali-fying as combat marks-manship instructors, and altering the competition to more closely ref lect the current Marine rifle marksmanship qualification course, Clark said.

The annual qualification course also incorporates fundamental known-dis-tance and combat precision firing.

“When they walk away from here, we want them to understand the scien-tific and technical aspects of their weapons,” Clark said. “It has basically combined the Division Matches with a (marksmanship instructor) school.”

Many Marines said they gained valuable experience at the matches.

“The combat shooting is a lot more beneficial for Marines and for the Marine Corps,” Eichner said.

Lance Cpl. Ethan Adams, with the Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd MLG, team, said he learned a lot from the Division Matches and can’t wait to come back for next year’s competition.

“I love it out here,” he said. “I’ve learned a lot. It definitely improved my abil-ity to shoot. I’ll beg and plead if I have to, to come back next year.”

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein okinawa marine staff

CAMP HANSEN — Jumping off Camp Hansen’s 60-foot rappel tower and stopping half way down to tie off, then intentionally flipping upside down, and performing sit-ups may seem a bit crazy, but it served as a confidence-builder for 16 Marines taking part in the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Master Course Feb. 29.

The Marines from various commands on Okinawa and Camp Fuji took part in the 11-day HRST Master Course to help supplement the Marine Corps’ need for HRST masters, according to Sgt. Kevin D. Parish, a primary HRST master instructor with Special Operations Training Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Units need HRST masters present to conduct operations and training events such as rappelling and fast-roping, accord-ing to Parish.

“Because the Marine Corps is amphibi-ous, HRST masters serve as a crucial ele-ment in a number of operations such as Ves-sel Board Search and Seizure operations or operations where helicopters may not be able to land, (such as in) urban or jungle terrain,” Parish said. “Basically anytime Marines need to rappel down a tower or out of a helicopter, a HRST master needs to be there.”

For areas on Okinawa like the Jungle Warfare Training Center, a lack of HRST masters would cause serious set backs in the training schedule, according to Cpl. Cache E. Webb, an instructor with JWTC.

“For most courses at JWTC, you need a HRST master,” Webb said. “Without them, most of the courses wouldn’t be possible. It would greatly limit what we can do.”

To test their skills and apply knowledge taught earlier in the week, the Marines con-ducted self-belay and tying-off exercises, according to Parish.

The Marines practiced self-belay tech-niques using a cordelette, a rope and knot system that acts as a secondary brake, Parish said.

The first Marine to rappel into the area

uses a cordelette if there are no Marines on the ground to act as a belay man. The belay man acts as a break if the Marine loses his grip of the rope, according to Parish.

The Marines also practiced tying-off after jumping off the portion of the tower that simulates the side of a helicopter.

“If a helicopter does a premature lift or if the area becomes unsafe for them to insert into, (Marines) need to know how to tie off and lock themselves in to prevent harmful situations,” Parish said.

Once stopped in mid-air, the Marines flipped upside down and began perform-ing sit-ups as a way to gain confidence in their abilities, according to Sgt. Russell A. Douthat, a HRST master instructor with SOTG.

“It really goes into the whole aspect that as HRST masters, they’re comfortable and confident in their abilities,” Douthat said. “If a master goes to get someone on the ropes and flips upside down, he won’t flip out.”

Marines in the Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques Master Course rappel down the Camp Hansen rappel tower Feb. 29.

okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008 �

A KC-130 Hercules aircraft from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 drops parachutists over Clark Air Base during the closing days of Balikatan.

Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Knallayokinawa marine staff

CLARK AIR BASE, Philip-pines — Philippine airmen from the 710th Special Op-erations Wing and Marines from 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion 3rd Marine Divi-sion, and Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, built on their long-standing rela-tionship and conducted bilateral parachute opera-tions Feb. 28 to March 1 at Clark Air Base, Republic of the Philippines, during the closing days of Exercise Balikatan 2008.

Balikatan is an annual, bi lateral humanitarian assistance and military training exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military.

The parachute opera-tions are a regularly sched-uled part of the exercise and gave approximately 80 Marines a chance to train side by side with more than 40 of their Philippine counterparts by jumping out of a KC-130 Hercu-les airplane from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152.

Most of the service mem-bers took part in static line jumps where the parachute

is deployed as the jumper leaves the aircraft. How-ever, about 10 Marines and one Philippine airman were able to conduct high-alti-tude low-opening jumps, where the jumper has a period of free fall before opening his chute.

Philippine Air Force Staff Sgt. Randy Isla, the service member who con-ducted HALO jumps, is a jumpmaster with the 710th Special Operations Wing.

He said jumping with Ma-rines is an event he always looks forward to.

“I have been jumping with them since 1997,” Isla said. “I’ve jumped about 70 times with Americans since then, and it is always a very fun and thrilling experience.”

The enthusiasm of Isla and other Philippine ser-vice members did not go unnoticed by the Marines.

“They value this train-

ing a lot, knowing we come to share knowledge with each other, and they really show their appreciation,” said Sgt. Zachary Burgart, a reconnaissanceman with 3rd Reconnaissance Bn. “It’s always interesting working with [the Philippine service members].”

For most of the Philippine airmen, jumping from a Her-cules is a rare opportunity.

“We usually jump out of helicopters, but when

the Marines come, we get a chance to train with the , which is always a fun and unique opportunity,” Isla said.

For the Marines, the location was virtually the only element of the train-ing that changed. How-ever, the jump into the Philippines still proved to be a memorable one for the Marines hooked to the canopies.

“The [drop zone] is the only thing that ever re-ally changes,” said Burgart, who has had three previ-ous jumps with the Phil-ippine service members during Exercise Balikatan 2006. “But every time you jump it’s a blast. It’s an adrenaline rush when you first step off the plane and then it’s really peaceful on the way down.”

After all the canopies had blossomed and carried the last service member to the ground, both nations’ warriors were already look-ing forward to the next jump with their interna-tional comrades.

“We all look forward to this every year when we have an exercise sched-uled with the Marines,” Isla said. “It is definitely a highlight for all of us when we participate.”

Philippine airmen jump with marinesA Marine recovers his chute following a jump during parachute training Feb. 28 at Clark Air Base during exercise Balikatan 2008. Most jumpers performed static line jumps, during which the parachute deploys as the jumper leaves the aircraft. Photos by Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Knallay

Marines descend over Clark Air Base. Philippine airmen with the 710th Special Operations Wing participated in the parachute training with the Marines Feb. 28 to March 1.

okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 200810 okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein okinawa marine staff

Sailors from 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducted a field training exercise on Camp Hansen’s Landing Zone Owl Feb. 26, focusing on setting up and operating a field

medical emergency room, which included a triage area, a stabilization center and a mo-bile Forward Resuscitative Surgical System.

The training involved 50 doctors and corpsmen, and 15 role players.

Once battalion personnel reached the training site, they immediately began setting up and preparing for incoming patients.

A short time later, trucks filled with the wounded drove into the site. Some of the mock injured were screaming, spewing fake blood or acting violently, but all were there to help make the training as realistic as possible.

“If you’re in a combat zone and you think you’re not going to hear screaming, you’re

There will be BloodRole players came in by the truck load, screaming, pretending to cling to life and covered with fake blood. No bell needed; class was in session for the 3rd Medical Battalion sailors. The subject: saving lives.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Sherod

Williams (left) and Seaman

Jerry Williams prepare an Iv for a simulated casualty

Feb. 26 during 3rd Medical

Battalion’s field training exercise at Landing zone

Owl. The training’s focus was setting up and operating

a field medical emergency room,

which included a triage area

and stabilization center, as well as setting up a

mobile Forward Resuscitative

Surgical System. Photos by Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein

Sterile instruments lie ready for corpsmen, surgeons and anesthesiologists during the exercise.

Seaman Jerry Williams treats a screaming role player with a simulated missing arm. Some

of the mock injured screamed, spewed fake blood or acted

violently to make the training as realistic as possible.

okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008okinawa marine | neWs | march 7, 2008 11

living in a fairy tale,” said Seaman Jerry Williams, a corpsman with B Co. “The role players help us prepare for those real life situations.”

Before moving the wounded into triage, the area where corpsmen evaluate physical condi-tion and sort patients based on the severity of injuries, corpsmen searched patients for weapons, according to Seaman Apprentice Robert J. Blehm, a corpsmen with B Co.

“When you see your first patient, it’s like a surprise,” Blehm said. “You don’t know what you’re getting into. Some patients are calm, some violent, others are manic.”

From triage, corpsmen sent patients to ei-ther the mobile FRSS, the stabilization center, or a holding area based on severity of wounds.

Patients with serious wounds not requir-ing surgery received treatment in the stabi-lization center while the critically injured, requiring immediate surgery, were sent to the mobile FRSS.

Stabilized patients or patients with mi-

nor injuries were sent to the holding area to await evacuation by CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters.

“FRSS is surgical intervention to save life, limb or eyesight,” said Lt. Kevin Bailey, com-mander of B Company, 3rd Medical Battal-ion. “We call it damage control surgery.”

In the mobile FRSS, surgeons and anes-thesiologists performed simulated operations including everything from amputations to stopping internal bleeding.

“It’s the bare bones of what we have to do surgically to keep the patient alive,” said Lt. j.g. James A. Kaup, a trauma nurse with Headquarters and Service Company, 3rd Med. Bn.

Once patients were stabilized, they were transported to a helicopter for evacuation.

“I spent most of my morning on the heli-copters evacuating patients,” said Seaman Apprentice Cody Hutchison, a corpsmen with B Co. 3rd Med Bn. “This training was intense.”

“If you’re in a combat zone and you think you’re not going to hear screaming, you’re

living in a fairy tale.”— Seaman Jerry Williams

A role player with a simulated grizzly head wound rests on a gurney inside a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter during an air evacuation that was part of the exercise.

Seaman Jerry Williams fills out a report on a simulated casualty.

12 okinawa marine | feaTure | march 7, 2008

Affordable camping and cabins located on military installations

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

a former Tuskegee Airman spoke to a crowd of Status of Forces Agreement personnel at the Camp Foster Theater during a Black

History Month observance Feb. 26.Retired Air Force Lt. Col Charles W. Dryden

talked about his experiences with the Tuskegee Airmen, the first black pilots in the U.S. mili-tary. The Tuskegee Airmen flew with distinc-tion during World War II as the U.S. Army Air Corps’ 332nd Fighter Group.

The Atlanta native shared what being a black pilot and an American meant to him during the event.

Congress forced the Army Air Corps to form an all-black combat unit in 1941, despite the U.S. Department of War objections. The War Office tried to eliminate the force by only ac-cepting those with a high level of education and flight experience, but their efforts were futile due to the large number of black Americans who qualified for the job despite the restric-tions, according to http://history.sandiego.edu.

Dryden told the audience about his time in the service and the hardships that he and other black airmen endured during WWII.

“We felt like we had to be the absolute best at everything we did because of the way we were scrutinized,” Dryden said. “It didn’t mat-ter if you were a pilot or a cook; you had to be the best.”

Dryden did everything possible while in

the service to continue fighting for America, despite the obstacles of discrimination and prejudice that were in his way.

“Someone once asked me why I fight so hard for a country that wrote me off,” Dryden said. “At first I wanted to give them the cliché answer about the country giving me opportu-nities and providing for me, but I then thought about why the country really is great. I think America’s government is the best in history. There are checks and balances and America adapts and changes for the better. America is all about diversity. We do have bumps in the road, but we keep changing and moving for-ward. America is dynamic. Once upon a time, neither women nor blacks could vote or run for president and now they can do both. America will continue to change for the better.”

“Dryden kept the crowd attentive and laugh-ing while at the same time getting his point across well and respecting everyone’s time,” said Gunnery Sgt. Pamela A. Davis, the Marine Corps Base equal opportunity advisor. “He is awesome at giving speeches. He remembers so many details from so long ago that paint a great picture of what it was like. He was very informative and entertaining.”

Dryden respects the fact that there is a Black History Month, and he wants everyone to remember how much African Americans have affected the rich history of the U.S.

“I think it’s important for everyone to know that blacks have been contributing to U.S. history through all its struggles,” Dryden said.

tuskegee airman gives black history lessons

Charles W. Dryden speaks to service members and SOFA personnel about Black History Month and his experiences Feb. 26 at the Camp Foster Theater. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks

“We have been an integral part of American existence since the beginning.”

Dryden toured several bases during his stay on Okinawa.

Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgettokinawa marine staff

Heading into nature to go camping is one of Americans’

favorite pastimes, and Status of Forces Agreement personnel on Okinawa do not have to travel far into the wild to do so. They don’t even have to leave base.

There are several recreational facilities inside military installa-tions that offer the experience of camping in the unique scenery and atmosphere Okinawa has to offer, with convenience and af-fordable prices.

“There are facilities on island for service members and their families to have an exceptional time with outstanding deals,” said Bill Dami-co, a recreation assistant with Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation Services. “They’re not far from any (service member), and they offer an easy chance to unwind.”

The Okuma Beach and Recre-ation Center, a military facility designed for the sole purpose of recreation, is a popular site for camping on the weekends and holidays. With family and single-size campsites, cabin and cabana rentals, Okuma is the central place for all things camping, according to Okuma’s Web site

(http://kadenaservices.com/oku-ma). It sits on a peninsula with beaches on both sides of the facil-ity. There are playgrounds and a golf course for visitors.

To get to Okuma, drive onto the expressway and head toward Nago. Take the expressway all the way until it merges into Route 58. Stay on Route 58 for almost 40 kilometers and then look for the “JAL Okuma” billboard on the left. Make a left at the sign and continue on until you reach the Okuma gate. For those without a vehicle of their own, simply take the Green Line to Camp Schwab and grab a taxi for the rest of the way. It’ll cost around ¥ 6,000.

Another convenient site for those who think camping and water activities go hand-in-hand is Torii Station, which is a short drive north from Kadena Air Base’s Gate 1.

The beach on Torii Station offers a water slide, numerous aquatic activities, and several picnic areas, pavilions and play-grounds. There are cabins for rent and spots set aside for camping. To get there, head north from KAB’s Gate 1 on route 58 and look for the blue signs. Turn left on Highway 6 and you’ll see Torii Station on the left after approxi-

mately four kilometers.If service members and their

families want to go on an outing without roughing it too much, Snuggler’s Cove Bluff, located at White Beach Naval Facility, of-fers seaside campers and trailers 60 yards from the beach for rent. Six-person, air-conditioned cabins with a refrigerator, stove, dishware, television, barbeque grill and pri-vate bathroom are also available. Call 634-6952 for reservations.

For a more private experience, Camp Schwab has 10 stand alone cottages for rent that sit on top of a cliff overlooking the Oura Wan Bay. Recommended for couples and families, the cottages are fully furnished in Ryukyuan in-spired interiors and have private patios, complete with a gas bar-becue grill. To get there, ride the Green Line bus to Camp Schwab or take the expressway toward Nago, get off at exit 9, and take a left on Route 329 until Camp Schwab comes up on the right.

Having all the desired camp-ing equipment and supplies ready before heading out on a camping trip is essential in making the best of an outing and not getting stuck in a miserable situation, said David Escott, a shift leader at Camp Foster’s Outdoor Recre-

ation Center. All other necessities can be obtained at the Recreation Center.

“Just about anything you need for camping, we have,” Escott said, “from one to ten-person tents, to portable picnic tables, to grills and cooking equipment. And if there’s something you need that we don’t have, we’ll try to get it for you.”

Outdoor Recreation Centers are located on several Marine instal-lations . The Camp Foster center is located in Building 5913, behind Gunner’s Fitness Center. The Camp Courtney center is inside the camp fitness center. And the Camp Hansen Center is inside the House of Pain South Gym. The phone numbers are 645-3909, 622-9221, and 623-4821 respectively.

The camping facilities on military installations throughout the island are an asset for ser-vice members and their families because of the simplicity and ease of use that the services were cre-ated for, said Damico.

“People can simply come to these places to relax, without any hassle at all,” he said.

There are facilities located all over the island, so no matter where a service member lives, they can easily get away from it all.

okinawa marine | feaTure | march 7, 2008 1�

The main hall of Shuri Castle is illuminated at night. The hall was the center of political and ceremonial activities involving kings, beginning in the 14th century. Its design is uniquely Ryukyuan, incorporating Chinese and Japanese architecture. OkiMar file photos by Lance Cpl. Corey A. Blodgett

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

NAHA — Within its curved walls about 120 meters above sea level, Shuri Castle holds and protects the ancient history of Okinawa

Shuri Castle features elaborate architecture from the Chinese and Japanese cultures, including many historical buildings, a museum and an artificial lake built in 1427.

These are some of the things visitors can see as they visit the castle and surrounding grounds. As they tour the area, they can also learn about the history through information stations posted along the pathways.

The castle’s grounds are both open and sacred, which are com-mon features of all old Okinawan castles, called “gusuku”. Shuri Castle stands as a historical re-minder of the Okinawan past and the legacy of gusukus.

King Satto, who built Shuri Castle in the 14th century, used it as a royal residence and the cen-ter of government and religion.

After being obliterated in 1945 by the battle between U.S. and Japanese forces, it was rebuilt and served as the cam-pus for the University of the Ryukyus.

The current site was opened to the public as Shuri Castle Park in

1992. It was rebuilt after its 18th Century version.

The main structure of the castle is called the “Seiden” or the main hall.

The first floor of the Sieden is called the “Shichagui,” where the king conducted the affairs of state and official ceremonies. The raised stage in the center of the room, called “Usasuka,” served as the king’s throne.

The second floor, called “Ufu-gui,” was used by the queen and high ranking “nyokan” (female retainers). The Usasuka in the center of the floor was used for formal ceremonies. The second floor is enhanced by high ceilings

and decorations. A steep stairway leads to the

third floor, an attic directly under the roof designed primarily for ventilation.

The castle was registered as a World Heritage Site in December 2000.

Entry into the park is free, but visitors must buy a ticket to get into the central courtyard, housing the main hall, Seiden, and the smaller halls, Hokuden and Nanden.

To get to Shuri Castle, take Route 58 toward Naha. At the third traffic light past Camp Kinser’s Gate 1, turn left on High-way 82 and follow the signs to Shuri Castle.

Shuri Castle houses centuries of Okinawan culture

Ancient History

Children look over the Shuri Castle Park under the castle’s Roukoku Gate.

The royal seat of the king, or usasuka, lies on the second floor of Shuri Castle. The royal seat resembles Shamidan, the pedestal on which the statue of Buddha is placed in zen temples.

14 okinawa marine | feaTure | march 7, 2008

Bone yard boundThe Marine Corps’ oldest KC-130 Hercules aircraft (front), also known as the 573, and a brand new KC-130J Hercules from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, fly in formation Feb. 13. The 573 was the oldest naval aircraft in service until it was retired to the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group “Bone Yard” at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz. Feb. 23. Photo by Lance Cpl. Kristofer R. Atkinson

Marine Corps’ oldest aircraft retired from service; VMGR-152 receives new model replacement

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

The Marine Corps’ oldest C-130 Her-cules departed from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to be retired in the Aerospace Mainte-

nance and Regeneration Group “Bone Yard” at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz. Feb. 23.

The C-130, also known as the ‘573’ by its crew, arrived at what was VMR-352 in 1961 and has operated since then.

The primary mission for 573 was air re-fueling and assault support. It was the old-est naval aircraft in service, according to Lt. Col. Dwight Neeley, the commanding officer of VMGR-152 Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.

The aircraft was used many times for cru-cial missions in the last few decades of Ameri-can history, according to retired Master Sgt.

Nick Decandia, a KC-130 flight engineer with the squadron. It was involved in the Vietnam War, more specifically Khe Sanh and Danang.

“We used the 573 to do air drops to dis-tribute supplies and ammo over Khe Sanh,” Decandia said. “In between those (missions) we would land, pick up the wounded and dead and bring them back to Danang. We did this seven or eight times a day.”

Neely said the 573 was also essential in recent operations.

“We have used the 573 in every overseas humanitarian assistance program in the past four years,” Neeley said. “The 573 had over 28,000 flight hours recorded. It was a real workhorse.”

Despite being the oldest aircraft in the han-gar, 573 was one of the better planes available, according to Staff Sgt. Shelly Henderson, a flight engineer with VMGR-152. “As time went on, it took a lot more to keep her running, but she didn’t need any more maintenance than the newer planes. She’s got a lot of power.”

The 573 was retired to make room for the Marine Corps’ newest C-130 J model. The 573 is scheduled for preserved status. It could be brought back again for more use or sold to another country.

“I think it has a very sentimental value,” Neeley said. “It stands as a testament to all of the thousands of Marines who kept it running for all these years. It has seen four different generations of Marines.”

“It’s just like leaving a child behind,” said Henderson. “It’s pretty amazing and over-whelming to go through the bone yard seeing all the old aircraft there. A trip to the bone yard is like a trip back in American history. It got emotional when we went through there; even the guys teared up a little.”

The plane’s crew flew from Okinawa to Tucson, Ariz. to retire it. Once they arrived, they taxied the plane into the Bone Yard. Before the plane was sealed up, they each got to sign the 573, displaying to whom it used to belong.

okinawa marine | sporTs | march 7, 2008 1�

Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein okinawa marine staff

CAMP HANSEN — Even though Chris Ditter sat down at the final table as the low-stack player in the Marine Corps Community Ser-vices Texas Hold’em Tournament March 1 at the Palms Club, he still managed to muscle out the competition.

Ditter beat 34 other participants in the tournament and claimed the first prize: a $250 Army and Air Force Exchange Service gift certificate. Ditter won with a jack-high flush caught on the river.

To defeat his final opponent, Ditter shifted from his mostly conservative playing method to a reckless and aggressive betting style to gradually take the large stack of poker chips from his opponent, Casper Stephens. Ditter raised the pot from $2,000 to $4,000 value in poker chips at a time, which forced Stephens to fold almost every hand.

Ditter attributed his victory to Stephens’ inability to call his bluffs.

“I bullied him with the low stack,” Ditter said. “He was too cheap to call.”

On the way to his final opponent, Ditter played conservatively, rarely betting and cau-tiously winning small hands, which were just

enough to keep him in the game. At the final table, Stephens – who held the

chip lead for most of the tournament – took every other player at the table out.

“My strategy was to sit back and wait for them to make mistakes,” Stephens said. “I was destroying them.”

Once Stephens removed 3rd place fin-isher James Louvier from the game with a pair of kings caught on the river, Ditter and Stephens went head to head for the cham-pionship.

Although both players maintained a mostly respectful demeanor toward each other, the game still had its share of trash talk.

“You’re a little wet behind the ears, boy,” Stephens said to his younger opponent, commenting on Ditter’s inexperience, while reaching into the table to collect the pot after winning a hand.

“What-cha got, big man?” Ditter asked after pushing all-in, which was followed by Ste-phens almost immediately folding his hand.

Despite the banter, both participants shook hands at the tournament’s end, congratulating each other on a good game that left both play-ers walking away a little richer.

The next Texas Hold’em Tournament at the Palms Club is scheduled for March 15.

marine goes from low-stack to poker tournament champion

Chris Ditter plays at the final table of Marine Corps Community Services Texas Hold’em Tournament March 1 at the Palms Club. Ditter beat 34 competitors to take first place. Photo by Lance Cpl. Richard Blumenstein

MCB defeats MALS-36 in Southern CC Cup championship gameLance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA — With a bench just one man deep, Marine Corps Base managed to dominate the Southern Camp Commanders’ Cup double-elimination basketball tourna-ment, winning the championship game by 10 points and going un-defeated.

Marine Corps Base faced Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36 in the championship game March 2 and defeated their team of eight players 77-67 to win the tourna-ment title.

Both teams played a tough defensive game and traded baskets for the entire first half, making it difficult for either team to gain an upper hand.

“At first, the game was close because we were sluggish from already playing three games, and we kept trading blows with MALS-36,” said MCB center Kenneth Car-roll. “They are a good team with a lot of experience, and they were right on our heels for most of the game.”

When the second half started, it was more of the same. MCB would score a basket and MALS-36 would

answer right away. “We weren’t making mistakes,

and neither were they. So the game stayed close and the intensity high,” said MALS-36 center Floyd Spears. “Unfortunately that only lasted for the first 10 minutes of the second half.”

Ten minutes into the second half, MCB started to pull away. They capitalized on MALS-36 turnovers, converting them for fast-break points to break open the game and take the lead.

Once MCB started to build a lead, they didn’t let MALS-36 make a come back.

“We may have been tired, but all we wanted to do was win the title and go home,” said MCB guard Yonnes Sanders. “We knew that if we didn’t win we had another game to play, so we stepped up our defense and pushed through whatever fatigue we had.”

After 10 minutes of intense play and a lot of hustle, MCB had maintained their lead and won the championship title.

“They didn’t make the mistakes. They made sure to capitalize on ours, and they never let up.” Spears said. “Overall, they outplayed us and deserved to win the champion-ship game.”

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36 center Floyd Spears glides through MCB defenders in the Southern Camp Commander’s Cup Basketball Tournament Championship March 2. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks

1� okinawa marine | markeTplace | march 7, 2008

auTomobIles’94 nissan skylinejci june 09, $1,200 646-6181’96 mitsubishi delicajci Nov. 09, $4,900, 646-6181’94 toyota mark iijci Aug. 09, $3,000 OBO, 622-8523’94 toyota lucenda jci May 08, $800, (090) 6897-8980’99 honda integrajci Oct. 09, $3,500 OBO, 633-1995’96 honda cbr 900jci May 09, $4,000 OBO, 646-1049’95 toyota mark iijci Dec. 08, $2,500 OBO, 622-5275

’93 toyota lucidajci july 08, $1,800, (080) 3459-2685’93 toyota lucidajci Feb. 09, $3,000 OBO, (090) 9787-7845’90 mitsubishi pajero sportjci Feb. 09, $2,800 OBO, 646-4449’95 toyota eminajci Feb. 09, $2,000, 090-9972-3316’96 honda cbr 900jci May 09, $4,000 OBO, 637-3596’97 honda civicjci March 09, $2,000 OBO, 622-8523’97 toyota ipsumjci Aug. 08, $2,500 OBO, 646-9303’93 toyota levin

jci Nov. 08, $2,000 OBO, 080-3465-3815’95 honda odysseyjci Dec. 08, $2,500 OBO, 645-3433’96 toyota carib jci jan. 10, $2,000 OBO, (090) 1707-0520’94 toyota Windom jci April 09, $1,650, (080) 3425-5799’94 toyota Windom jci june 09, $1,500 OBO, 633-9700’92 toyota Windom jci Aug. 09, $1,500, 645-5057’93 nissan presea jci April 08, $500,645-5057’92 toyota corona jci Nov. 08, $600 OBO, (090) 3428-6628

CAMp FoSter | 645-7486/7487• Catholic: Mon.-Fri., 11:45 a.m. Sat., 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.• Christian Science: Sun., 11 a.m., Bldg. 442• Eastern Orthodox: Sun., 9:30 a.m.• Gospel: Sun., 11:30 a.m.• Hindu: Sun., 3:30 p.m., Bldg. 455• Jewish: Fri., traditional, 5:45 p.m.; informal (first and third Friday), 6:30 p.m.• Latter-day Saints: Sun., 2 p.m., Bldg. 455• Muslim: Friday prayer at 12:45 p.m.• Protestant: Sun., 8:30 a.m.

CAMp KinSer | 637-1148• Catholic: Sun., 11 a.m.• Gospel: Sun., 8 a.m.• Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m.

CAMp HAnSen | 623-4694• Catholic: Sun., 10 a.m., East Chapel• Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m., West Chapel

MCAS FutenMA | 636-3058• Catholic: Sun., noon• Contemporary: Sun., 9 a.m.

CAMp SCHwAB | 625-2644/2866• Catholic: Sun., 5:30 p.m.• Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m.

CAMp MctureouS | 622-7505• Gospel: Sun., 12:30 p.m.• Lutheran: Sun., 9:30 a.m.

CAMp Courtney | 622-9350• Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m., 11:15 a.m.• Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. • Angelican, Episcopal: Sun., 6:30 p.m.

CAMp LeSter | 643-7248• Catholic: Sun., 8 a.m., Lester Chapel• Protestant: Sun., 9 a.m., Hospital Chapel Sun., 10 a.m., Lester Chapel Tues., noon, Holy Eucharist, Hospital Chapel

KAdenA Air BASe | 634-1288• Catholic: Sun., 8:30 a.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Sun., 11:30 a.m., Reconciliation, Chapel 1 Sun., 12:30 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Sun., 5 p.m., Mass, Chapel 1 Sun., 10:30 a.m., CCD, Amelia Earhart School Daily Mass, Mon.-Thurs., noon, Chapel 2

• Protestant: Sun., 10:30 a.m., Contemporary, Chapel 1 Sun., 8:30 a.m., Inspirational, Chapel 2 Sun., 10:30 a.m., Traditional, Chapel 2 Sun., 10:30 a.m., Gospel, Chapel 3 Sunday School, 8:45 a.m., Bldg. 856

• Wiccan/Pagan Fri., 7 p.m. at Chapel 1 Sat., 6 p.m. at Bldg. 856

• Buddhist Sat., 10 a.m. Bldg. 856

chapel schedule

For more information, contact the Single

Marine Program Office at 645-3681.

MARCH 12-13 | NORTHeRN CAMPS STAR PROGRAM • First Day is free northern highlight tour that includes pineapple and glass factories, jusco and more. Second day includes free visits to Shuri castle and Kokusai Street, and you can learn the Okinawan public bus system. Bring camera and yen for personal purchases.

• Bus Departures: camp courtney, 7:15 a.m.; camp Hansen, 8 p.m.; camp Schwab 8:30 a.m.

MARCH 14 | NORTHeRN CAMPS DISCOveR GOLF• Free class at Awase Golf course gives aspiring golfers skills and knowledge of the game, including how to set up a tee time, cart and club rental, club types, swing techniques and putting styles.

• Bus Departures: camp Schwab, 7 a.m.; camp Hansen, 7:30 a.m.; camp courtney, 8:15 a.m.

vOLuNTeeR OPPORTuNITIeS• The Marine Thrift Shop on camp Foster requires two volunteers from each camp every week. Kinser Elementary School needs student mentors Friday mornings. contact your SMP representative for more information.

classIfIed ads

Ads appearing in the Okinawa Marine are a free ser-vice to active duty military and their dependents, DoD employees and retirees. Ads are restricted to personal property or service of incidental exchange. Ads are run on a space-available basis. The deadline for ads is noon Fridays. The Okinawa Marine reserves the right to edit ads to fit available space. Please include your name and the phone number you wish published. The Okinawa Marine makes every effort to ensure accu-racy but assumes no responsibility for services offered in ads. Submit ads by fax to 645-3803, or send an e-mail to okinawamarine.mcbb.fct@usmc.mil.

— 2 sets of dive gear; $500 each or $900 for both w/ additional accessories, 637-1505— New tires–BFG A/T 31x10.5R15, $650 OBO, 646-3601— Eddie Bauer two-level wood booster Seat, $15; Little Tikes Prep ‘n Serve Kitchen

with barstool and accessories, $50, 622-5168— HP laptop with accessories, $499 OBO, (090) 6430-9643 — Full size bed, $150; 32-inch TV, $250; jVc subwoofer, $100; Kenwood receiver, $100, 646-4448

mIscellaneous

sIngle marIne program evenTs

All bus pick-up points will be at Semper Fit gyms or the Foster

Fieldhouse.

In TheaTers march �–1�

Movie schedule is subject to change without notice. Call in advance to confirm show times. For a complete listing, visit http://www.aafes.com.

schWab625-2333

The Kadena theater will not be showing any movies this week.

FRIDAY Vantage Point (PG13), 7 p.m.; Fool’s Gold (PG13), 10 p.m.

SATuRDAY The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie (G), 1 and 4 p.m.; The Great Debaters (PG13), 7 p.m.; Fool’s Gold (PG13), 10 p.m.

SuNDAY The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie (G), 1 p.m.; The Great Debaters (PG13), 4 p.m.; Semi-Pro (R), 7 p.m.

MONDAY The Great Debaters (PG13), 7 p.m.

TueSDAY National Treasure: Book of Secrets (PG), 7 p.m.

WeDNeSDAY P.S. i Love You (PG13), 7 p.m.

THuRSDAY Semi-Pro (R), 7 p.m.

kadena 634-4422

fosTer 645-3465

courTney622-9616

FRIDAY Semi-Pro (R), 6:30 and 9:30 p.m.

SATuRDAY The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (PG), 2 p.m.; Walk Hard: The Dewey cox Story (R), 7 p.m.

SuNDAY jumper (PG13), 7 p.m.

MONDAY One Missed call (PG13), 7 p.m.

TueSDAY closed

WeDNeSDAY The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (PG), 1 p.m.; Van-tage Point (PG13), 7 p.m. THuRSDAY closed

FRIDAY The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (PG), 7 p.m.

SATuRDAY The Mist (R), 7 p.m.

SuNDAY One Missed call (PG13), 7 p.m.

MONDAY Semi-Pro (R), 7 p.m.

TueSDAY Vantage Point (PG13), 7 p.m.

WeDNeSDAY & THuRSDAY closed

usoMovie nights

The USO hosts movie nights at the locations below.

For schedules and start times, call:

CAMP SCHWAB 625-3834

MCAS FuTeNMA 636-2113

CAMP HANSeN 623-5011

KADeNA AIR BASe 632-8781

fuTenma636-3890

kInser637-2177

hansen623-4564

FRIDAY jumper (PG13), 6 and 9 p.m.

SATuRDAY jumper (PG13), 6 p.m.; The Great Debaters (PG13), 9 p.m.

SuNDAY National Treasure: Book of Secrets (PG), 2 p.m.; The Great Debat-ers (PG13), 5:30 p.m.

MONDAY Vantage Point (PG13), 7 p.m.

TueSDAY Semi-Pro (R), 7 p.m.

WeDNeSDAY First Sunday (PG13), 7 p.m.

THuRSDAY Sweeny Todd: The De-mon Barber of Fleet Street (R), 7 p.m.

FRIDAY The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie (G), 3 p.m.; P.S. i Love You (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

SATuRDAY The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie (G), 3 p.m.; The Great Debaters (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

SuNDAY The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie (G), 3 p.m.; The Great Debaters (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY & TueSDAY closed

WeDNeSDAY Semi-Pro (R), 3 p.m. THuRSDAY closed

FRIDAY One Missed call (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

SATuRDAY Semi-Pro (R), 4 and 7 p.m.

SuNDAY The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (PG), 4 p.m.; One Missed call (PG13), 7 p.m.

MONDAY jumper (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

TueSDAY closed

WeDNeSDAY & THuRSDAY closed