InsI

deiii marine expeditionary force and marine corps bases japan

july 18, 2008 www.okinawa.usmc.mil

tengan castle oPensAfter a long period of renovation, the Tengan Castle restaurant on Camp Courtney has returned

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tHe nIgHt sHIFt9th ESB Marines train all night long for an upcoming deployment to Iraq

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concert In tHaIlanDIII Marine Expeditionary Force Band Marines travel to the Kingdom of Thailand to perform on Independence Day

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6PG.

These were the last words Terry Tsubota’s father spoke to him before he left for war. ¶ And the spirit of these words would guide his actions then, as they do today.

Pfc. Antwain J. Grahamokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — The III Marine Expeditionary Force recently re-ceived 15 of a projected 35 Mine Re-sistant Ambush Protected vehicles to be used for training purposes.

Because of regular deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where the majority of the vehicles are used at the tactical level, III MEF officials stated it is imperative Japan-based Marines be trained and certified on how to operate MRAP vehicles before deploying to combat.

The vehicles offer significant advantages in protection from im-provised explosive devices, mines, small arms fire and rocket-pro-pelled grenades when compared to humvees or other vehicles com-monly used in combat.

“What makes these vehicles so awesome is the protection factor,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. James E. Rankin, the III MEF logistics section motor transport chief.

see MRAP pg �

III MeF receives MRAP vehicles

The Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Category 3 Buffalo vehicle is the largest of the new MRAPs received on Okinawa, and safely aids explosive ordnance disposal technicians and combat engineers conducting improvised explosive device and mine clearing operations. Photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph A. Cabrera

Consolidated Public Affairs Office

CAMP FOSTER – The Headquarters Marine Corps Recruiters Screening Team is scheduled to visit Marine Corps installations on Okinawa July 21-25.

The purpose of the visit is to conduct screenings, interviews and briefs for Marines who may qualify to attend recruiting school. The team is scheduled to visit Camps Foster, Hansen, Kinser and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.

Marines selected to attend the HRST screening must first be screened by their command to ensure they meet the criteria set forth by Headquarters Marine Corps.

Marines who are selected must also attend a brief

by HRST about life as a Marine recruiter.Marines reporting to the recruiting team must be in

the Service Charlie uniform and in possession of their service record book, health records along with medical screening certificate, dental records and commanding officer screening and interview guide.

Volunteers should not attend the briefs. Anyone with a desire to volunteer should submit requests via the total Force Retention System (TFRS).

Additionally, Marines that are serving on their ini-tial enlistment contract will not be screened.

For more information and exact times and dates of screening visits, Marines can contact their career planner’s office.

Recruiter screening team to visit Okinawa

”WAR

saving lives.is not only shooting and killing, “

but also

Terry Tsubota would not be alive today if not for a solitary compassionate choice he made during the Battle of Okinawa, where he served as a U.S. Army translator attached to Marines. Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn

� okinawa marine | OPInIOn & edITORIAL | july 18, 2008

TO subMIT An OPInIOn OR edITORIAL, e-MAIL us AT OkInAwAMARIne.Mcbb.FcT@usMc.MIL

factcheck hydrationsystems

Are Marines allowed to wear hydrations systems in uniform that were not issued to them?

No. According to Marine Corps Order P1020.34G, articles that are not authorized for wear as part of a regulation uniform will not be worn exposed with

the uniform unless otherwise instructed by the Commandant or higher authority. Examples include hydration systems or personal backpack/hydration system combination packs.

Q:a:

Single Marine Program staff looks forward to your participation

Submitted by Lifelines

Feeling crabby lately? It could be you aren’t getting enough sleep. Work, household responsibilities and child care can make sleep difficult to come by. Factor in other unexpected challenges such as fi-nancial worries, relationship issues or an illness, and quality sleep may be even more elusive.

You may not be able to control or eliminate all of the factors that interfere with your sleep, but you can create an environment and adopt habits that encourage a more restful night. Try the following suggestions if you have trouble fall-ing asleep or staying asleep:

Go to bed and get up at about the same time every day, even on the weekends. Sticking to a sched-ule helps reinforce your body’s sleep-wake cycle and can help you fall asleep better at night.

Don't eat or drink large amounts before bedtime. Eat a light dinner about two hours before sleeping. If you’re prone to heartburn, avoid spicy or fatty foods, which can make your heartburn flare and pre-vent a restful sleep. Also, limit how much you drink before bed. Too much liquid can cause you to wake up repeatedly during the night for trips to the bathroom.

Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol in the evening, these can keep you awake. Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms at night, and smok-ing in bed is dangerous. Avoid caffeine for eight hours before your planned bedtime. Your body doesn’t store caffeine, but

it takes many hours to eliminate the stimulant and its effects. And although often believed to be a sedative, alcohol actually disrupts sleep.

Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, can help you fall asleep faster and make your sleep more restful. Don’t exercise within three hours of your bedtime, however. Exercising before bed may make getting to sleep more difficult.

Make your bedroom cool, dark, quiet and comfortable. Create a room that’s ideal for sleeping. Adjust the lighting, temperature, humidity and noise level to your preferences. Use blackout curtains, eye covers, earplugs, extra blan-kets, a fan, a humidifier or other devices to create an environment that suits your needs.

Sleep primarily at night. Day-time naps may steal hours from nighttime slumber. Limit daytime sleep to about a half-hour and make it during midafternoon. If you work nights, keep your window coverings closed so that sunlight, which adjusts the body’s internal clock, doesn’t interrupt your sleep. If you have a day job and sleep at night, but still have trouble waking up, leave the window coverings open and let the sunlight help wake you up.

Choose a comfortable mattress and pillow. Features of a good bed are subjective and differ for each person. But make sure you have a bed that’s comfortable. If you share your bed, make sure there’s enough room for two. Children and pets are often disruptive, so you may

Randy Mitchell

On behalf of the new Single Marine Program — Sergio Morales, Shelly Johnson, Izumi Nakachi and myself — we are looking forward to meeting every one of you and supporting you in every way we can.

We plan on keeping up the fun and exciting events that the SMP is known for; from the Dragon Boat races in Naha to the Pineapple Factory Tour in Nago. Marines and sailors show up in force to these events to enjoy themselves and the

new staff at SMP will continue helping you enjoy what Okinawa has to offer.

We have just re-cently entered into the critical days of summer and the SMP has a full range of events and trips on the agenda to keep every-one entertained.

There’s no better deal than Discovery Golf and Discovery Scuba since they don’t cost you anything. So sign up for them as soon as possible. We also have had a lot of Marines and sailors sign up for the weekend

camping trip to Okuma Recreational Facility. If you missed it this month, no worries, we are planning future trips up there.

We would also like to thank the prior staff, all the committee mem-bers and volunteers for helping to keep the SMP going for the past few months.

We look forward to seeing you all at one of our upcoming events. Be safe, take care of each other and enjoy Okinawa!

Mitchell is the manager of the Single Marine Program.

The Single Marine Program office on Camp Foster recently changed their staff positions. The new team, from left to right: Sergio Morales, recreation specialist; Randy Mitchell, the SMP manager; Izumi Nakachi, administrative assistant; Shelly Johnson, recreation specialist. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks

need to set limits on how often they sleep in bed with you.

Start a relaxing bedtime routine. Do the same things each night to tell your body it’s time to wind down. This may include taking a warm bath or shower, reading a book, or listening to soothing mu-sic. Relaxing activities done with lowered lights can help ease the transition between wakefulness and sleepiness.

Go to bed when you're tired and turn out the lights. If you don’t fall asleep within 15 to 20 minutes, get up and do something else. Go back to bed when you’re tired. Don’t ago-nize over falling asleep. The stress will only prevent sleep.

Use sleeping pills only as a last resort. Check with your doctor before taking any sleep medica-tions. He or she can make sure the pills won’t interact with your other

medications or with an existing medical condition. Your doctor can also help you determine the best dosage. If you do take a sleep medi-cation, reduce the dosage gradually when you want to quit, and never mix alcohol and sleeping pills. If you feel sleepy or dizzy during the day, talk to your doctor about changing the dosage or discontinu-ing the pills.

If you’re having problems sleep-ing more than three times a week for a month’s time, see your doctor. You could have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome. Identifying and treating the cause of your sleep disturbance can help get you back on the road to a good night’s sleep.

Lifelines is a Navy-created re-source site for Marines, sailors and their families. Visit http://lifelines.navy.mil for more information.

need a boost? A good night’s sleep may be answer

okinawa marine | news | july 18, 2008 �

MRAP from pg 1“Marines have a better chance of surviving a blast on the inside of one of these.”

MRAP vehicles have a V-shaped hull as well as a raised chassis and blast resistant underbody de-signed to protect passengers and crew from mine blasts and fragmentary and direct fire weapons.

The majority of MRAP vehicles allocated to III MEF will be maintained and utilized for training on Okinawa.

Rankin stated there are three categories of MRAP vehicles.

The Cougar model, designated either cat-egory one or two depending on whether the

vehicle has four or six wheels, respectively. is the standard, with the category two capable of transporting more troops. The category two vehicle can also serve as an ambulance when the seats are removed.

Category three, also called the Buffalo, is the largest of the three personnel carriers. It is equipped with a hydraulic arm that can be fitted with two different kinds of attachments, a fork for mine and IED removal and a camera mount that allows operators to examine or monitor their sur-roundings safely from inside the vehicle.

The MRAP vehicles are already receiving praise from Marines for the advanced features.

“It’s a good idea to have the MRAPs here for training before you use it out in a combat environment,” said Sgt. Mark Wojciechowski, an explosive ordnance disposal technician with 3rd EOD Co., 9th Engineer Support Bat-talion. “You have to learn how to operate them safely first.”

According to senior III MEF officials, all vehicle training will only be conducted on U.S. military installations.

III MEF currently has two MRAP vehicles at Camp Fuji and projects in the near future, two more MRAP vehicles will be placed at Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni.

Base safety officials warn of dangers when leaving children, pets in cars

The fleet of newly delivered and heavily armored Category 1 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles will allow the III Marine Expeditionary Force to train units more effectively for deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph A. Cabrera

cRiticAl dAys of suMMeR

Pfc. Jeffrey Corderookinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Leaving a child or pet unattended inside a vehicle can be fatal. Marine Corps Base safety officials are addressing the issue to increase awareness of the dangers.

In addition to being po-tentially fatal, leaving chil-dren or pets unattended in vehicles is against the law.

Marine Corps Bases Ja-pan Order P11240.1C para-graph 5004 on general pro-visions and restrictions line 10, states that “Children 10

years old or young-er will not

be left unattended in a ve-hicle at any time.”

Those found in violation of the order may be reported to the sponsor’s chain of com-mand which could result in punitive charges or adverse administrative action.

Aaron M. Davis, a safety and occupational health specialist and lead safety specialist for Camp Kinser, said during winter months it’s more common to see people illegally leave their

kids and pets in cars when the cooler temperatures pose less of a risk.

The problem is, he said, that some people keep that same mindset in the summer.

Davis conducted an ex-periment to see how hot it can get in an automobile. He left a temperature index chart inside of his car for 20 minutes after turning the air conditioning off. When he returned to check the temperature, it had risen to 120 degrees.

Some parents don’t realize how quickly the temperature in a car can reach anywhere from 110-120 degrees Fahr-enheit, Davis said.

“They see it as an incon-venience to have to unbuck-le them (children) and take them out,” he added.

Some health hazards caused by heat exposure include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and in more severe cases, death.

According to Davis, even if you leave the air condi-tioning on, problems can still occur.

The air conditioning may not work properly or

even work at all, or the car may shut off unexpectedly, he said. And if the win-dows are shut, children or pets can suffocate or suffer injuries if the temperature rises past tolerable condi-tions, he added.

The dangers of leaving a child unattended in a vehicle are not limited to heat related injuries.

“You never know when your child is going to climb out of his seat,” Davis said.

“The child can unbuckle his seatbelt and end up just about anywhere in the car, including the driver’s seat,” he added. This problem is only compounded if the vehicle is left running.

Pets are also affected and can suffer injuries from be-ing left inside vehicles.

“Somet imes you see dogs reaching their heads to the crack of a window,” Davis said. “(People) think that by leaving a litt le

opening in the window the pet would be fine, but in reality the pet may suffer from heat related injuries or even death,” he added.

According to Davis, thinking about safety will ensure the welfare of chil-dren and pets.

“When you go out and do something, take the time out to think about what you are going to do,” Davis said. “Never leave kids and animals behind.”

Even a quick trip to the post office can result in serious consequences for unattended children, and it is also against the law. Photo illustration by Pfc. Jeffrey Cordero

� okinawa marine | news | july 18, 2008

MCCOCE Early rEgistratiOnThe Marine Corps College of Continuing

Education’s early registration is underway for both the Expeditionary Warfare School and the Command Staff Course, which begin in October.

The courses are broken down into two approximately 35-week sessions with classes one night a week.

For more information or to sign up, con-tact the College of Continuing Education at 645-2230, or visit the Web site at http://www.tecom.usmc.mil/cce.

CaMp fOstEr gatE 1B ClOsurEsGate 1B, “The Sergeant Major Gate,” is

scheduled to close from 2 to 3 p.m. on July 22, 23, 24, 29 and 30 for training.

For more information, contact Camp Services at 645-7317.

finanCial HEaltH QuiCK pOllThe Inspector General of the Marine Corps

will be conducting a Web-based quick poll from July 14-24.

Although participation is voluntary, all Marines on active duty are encouraged to complete this poll. While Marines must provide identifying information to validate themselves, the results of the poll will not identify Marines by name or organization. Data will be analyzed to identify trends within pay grade, geographical areas, and other categories.

To access the poll, visit http://www.man-power.usmc.mil/fhsurvey.

H.i.t. travEl BanKruptCy nOtifiCatiOnThe off-base travel agency H.I.T. Travel

has filed for bankruptcy. Status of Forces Agreement personnel assigned to Okinawa who have purchased or reserved tickets through the agency may file claims through the Tokyo Tourism Bureau. Claims must be received no later than July 31.

For more information, contact the Camp Foster Legal Assistance Office at 645-1037.

ragtiME tHE MusiCal auditiOnsThe cast of “Ragtime: The Musical” is

seeking men and African-American women for its production.

Auditions will be held Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Camp Foster Performing Arts Center.

For more information, visit http://www.pops-okinawa.org.

nMCrs aftEr-HOurs COntaCt nuMBErThe Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society

has a new after-hours contact number. The number’s use is limited to emergency trans-portation requests due to illness or death of an immediate family member or grandparent.

The number is (090) 9574-2673.

MultiCultural day plannErs wantEdThe Multicultural Heritage Day Celebration

committee is seeking volunteers with diverse backgrounds from all over the world to assist in planning and executing a multicultural event aboard Camp Foster Oct. 3.

To volunteer, contact the Marine Corps Base Equal Opportunity Advisor, Gunnery Sgt. Pamela A. Davis, at 645-3555.

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.

briefs

Consolidated Public Affairs Office

CAMP HANSEN — Col. Laurent O. Baker passed command of the III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group to Col. Dewey G. Jordan dur-ing a change of command ceremony at the Hansen parade field June 14.

Jordan also became the Camp Hansen Com-mander, a billet held by Baker prior to the cer-emony.

Baker will become an instructor at the National War College in Washington, D.C.

Jordan arrives from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., where he served as the command master chief’s fellow to the Ethics Center.

Jordan was commissioned a second lieutenant after graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1986.

After completion of The Basic School, Jor-dan became the personnel staff officer for 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Divi-sion, Camp Lejeune, N.C. He also served as the personnel staff officer for 2nd Light Armored Infantry Battalion, 2nd MarDiv.

In 1989, he assumed duties as the aide-de-camp to the commanding general of 6th Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

In 1990, Jordan served as the personnel staff officer of 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and participated in Operation Provide Comfort.

Following his second deployment in 1992, Jor-dan attended the Marine Air Ground Task Force Intelligence Officer’s Course at Dam Neck, Va.

Jordan graduated the Army Advanced Intel-ligence Officer’s Course at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., in February 1996 and reported to 2nd Marine Division and served as the intelligence staff officer for 1st Battalion, 8th Marines.

In June 1997, he became the intelligence staff officer for 8th Marine Regiment, and in November 1998, the commanding officer of

Headquarters Company.Jordan transferred to Fort Meade, Md. on Janu-

ary 18, 1999, for duty as commander of B Co., Marine Support Bn.

In September 2000, Jordan represented the Marine Corps as a fellow to the director of National Security Agency. In May 2001, he transferred to the Information Warfare Support Center, NSA.

In July 2002, he reported to United States Central Command for duties as the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance requirements branch chief. Jordan deployed in support of Op-erations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

In 2004 he attended the Joint and Combined Warfighting School at the Joint Forces Staff College.

Later that year, he took duties as the deputy chief of staff, intelligence division, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

In 2005, Jordan assumed duties as command-ing officer, Marine Cryptologic Support Bn.

Jordan’s personal awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Joint Service Achievement Medal.

Jordan Baker

baker passes command of III MHG to Jordan

III MEF Band performs in Thailand2nd Lt. Stewart Colesiii mef/mcbj public affairs

BANGKOK, Thailand — Mem-bers of the III Marine Expedi-tionary Force Band visited Bang-kok, Thailand, to hold musical clinics and put on performances alongside the Royal Thai Air Force Band June 30-July 3.

The purpose of the visit was to exchange knowledge with the Royal Thai Air Force Band and perform in celebration of Inde-pendence Day and 175 years of cooperation between the United States and Thailand.

“It is an honor to be here with the Royal Thai Air Force band,” said III MEF Band Director Chief Warrant Officer 2 Forest Q. Brown. “We’ve been looking forward to this for a long time.”

The two bands performed together under the direction of Brown and the RTAF band director, Flight Lt. Woraket Tagosa.

The III MEF and RTAF bands-men played to an audience of more than 1000 school chil-

dren July 1 at the Choomnoom-moobaan Pattana School in Bangkok’s Klong Toey district. The children stood in respect during the playing of the U.S. national anthem and the Thai royal anthem.

In attendance was Prateep Ungsongtham Hata, a former senator who now serves as secretary general of the Duang Prateep Foundation.

“We would like to say thank you for your kindness,” Hata said to the combined band. “Today is a very special day for all of us.”

The bands performed a num-ber of American jazz, Thai pop songs and music composed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej at a U.S. Embassy-sponsored event in downtown Bangkok July 2 and 3.

In attendance were represen-tatives from the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and U.S. Ambas-sador Eric G. John

“Since we are celebrating 175 Years of U.S.-Thai friendship, we could think of no better way to do this than to have two of our great military bands play together,” John said.

The Marine and Thai band members perform July 1 to an audience of more than 1,000 school children in Bangkok. Photo by 2nd Lt. Stewart Coles

okinawa marine | news | july 18, 2008 �

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

CAMP COURTNEY — For the first time in more than a year, skillets sizzled and drinks were served as patrons enjoyed brunch at Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney July 13.

The restaurant was gutted in May of last year and is now re-opened with some serious renova-tions.

“The reason we renovated the restaurant was because it had been a while since it had been fixed up and we wanted to make the ex-perience that much better for our customers,” said Devon Braund,

corporate club manager with Ma-rine Corps Community Services.

Upgrades include changes in landscaping design, a newly installed satellite system, new in-terior decor, toys for children and menu changes.

“We have changed to a Mexican theme,” said club manager Jane Raymond. “We have more Mexican music, food and decorations. It has a cantina-type feel to it now and everything is more elaborate.”

Customers, many of whom re-member the old Tengan Castle, were impressed with the upgrades.

“The food here was really good and it was a great place for

me and my family to relax and eat,” said Maj. Ron Rega, the operations officer with 7th Com-munications Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “I came here last year before it closed and the improvements the staff made are outstanding.”

According to Raymond, employ-ees at Tengan Castle aim to please customers and offer a pleasant din-ing experience.

“We want to try to take care of everybody,” Raymond said, also adding that if customers do not find what they want on the menu, and the club staff has the means, they will make it.

Raymond said the Tengan Castle staff hopes the improvements will help alleviate some of the stresses associated with military life for their customers.

“I think it’s awesome to be able to provide services and meals, es-pecially to service members,” Ray-mond said. “They’re out there in the field all the time eating (Meals Ready to Eat) and dealing with a lot of stress. I want them to be able to come in here and relax with full stomachs.”

Tengan Castle is open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Fri-day, 5-9 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays.

Tengan Castle re-opens after yearlong renovation

Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynnokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Status of Forces Agree-ment personnel looking to take a bicycle ride off base should be aware the Japanese law concerning bicyclists riding on sidewalks has been revised, according to base officials.

A revision, made effective June 16, allows persons under the age of 13 or older than 69, and anyone who is physically impaired, to ride on pedestrian sidewalks. This still excludes most SOFA status personnel.

Before the revision, everyone was prohib-ited from riding bicycles on sidewalks.

Those who are eligible to ride on sidewalks must adhere to the following safety measures.

Children under 13 years old must wear a bicycle helmet.

Cyclists must obey all pedestrian traffic lights and yield to pedestrians when on the sidewalk. Cyclists should pass pedestrians using the roadway whenever possible.

The Installation Safety Office recommends a few additional safety measures to help ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

Cyclists should refrain from riding bicycles with a child pull cart or child seat off base. Bikes configured in this way are difficult to maneuver on small streets and may present a safety con-

cern on larger, more frequented roads.Bicycles should be outfitted with reflectors

(front, back and sides) and functioning head-lights when riding during periods of reduced visibility. Cyclists should also have some sort of horn or bell on their bikes when riding on main roads.

Cyclists must ride on the far left side of the road and should never ride more than two side by side.

Cyclists must obey all vehicle traffic laws when riding on roads and pedestrian traffic laws when riding on sidewalks.

For more information contact the Installa-tion Safety Office at 645-3806.

Japanese sidewalk bicycling law revised

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

CAMP KINSER — Hun-dreds of service members on Camp Kinser enjoyed a warm and hearty pancake breakfast recently during “Flapjack Friday” provided by Marines and volunteers with the United Service Organization.

“As always, the USO was there to make us feel at home with homemade pancakes and hospitality second to none,” said Cpl. Rocky Quach, a finance technician with Combat Logistics Regiment 37.

The mobile USO team visited barracks 1226 to provide the meal.

Marines finishing the morning’s physical train-ing and those on their way to work fuelled their bod-ies with flapjacks, sausages and Gatorade, all provided for free and within foot-

USO boosts morale with Flapjack Friday event on Camp Kinser

Service members apply their desired toppings to pancakes served to them by volunteers with the United Service Organization during “Flapjack Friday” on Camp Kinser. Photo courtesy of USO

steps of the barracks.The pu r pose of t he

event was to boost morale and provide Marines with a quality breakfast, said

Julia Gregory, director of programs and marketing for USO Okinawa.

“We want to give them a home away from home, by

letting them know that we care,” she said.

The USO handed out comment cards on how to improve Flapjack Fri-

day and did receive some feedback.

“This was awesome,” said Lance Cpl. Danny Griffin, a finance technician with CLR-37. “The only thing I would suggest is that we do this more often.”

More events like Flapjack Friday are being planned thanks in part to the huge success, according to Greg-ory. On the first Friday of every month, “Flapjack Fri-day takes place indoors at the Marine Corps Air Station Futenma and Camp Hansen USOs. On the fourth Friday of every month, the mobile team goes to a different base and serves up an outdoor “Flapjack Friday.”

“I greatly appreciate the time and work the USO gave to provide us with a flapjack breakfast,” said Cpl. Rodney Greenfield, a finance clerk with CLR-37. “The staff was all happy and friendly. It def-initely improved my day.”

okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008� okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008

Terry Tsubota was 22 years old when he was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve as a Japanese translator during World War II.

He was born in Pahoa, Hawaii, July 28, 1922 to a Hawai-ian mother and Japanese father. Growing up, Tsubota attended a Japanese American High School where he learned to speak English and Japanese.

Following the invasion of Pearl Harbor, Tsubota would leave his job at a local grocery store and fight for the United States -- as his father would have him.

Tsubota underwent basic training in Halemanu, Wahi-awa, in central Awahu. After graduating and completing translator school, he embarked on a journey that would lead him directly into the Battle of Okinawa.

Tsubota initially embarked aboard USS Osage (LSV-3) for Guadalcanal. Upon arrival, he was assigned to 4th Marine Regiment, 6th Marine Division. It was with these Marines that Tsubota would share the hardships of war.

His unit soon boarded USS Catskill (LSV-1) and headed west to Okinawa.

According to Tsubota, he was one of only five transla-tors to come ashore on Okinawa during the battle. One of the main duties of the translators was to help clear caves of Japanese soldiers in the waning days of the battle.

Tsubota’s and other translators would stand at the mouth of a cave where enemy combatants were believed to be hiding and, with a loud speaker, order those inside to surrender.

LIVING BY HIS FATHER’S WORDS

Terry Tsubota in his home on Okinawa. Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn

Story by Lance Cpl. Daniel A. Flynn

okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008 �

TBut remembering the words of his father,

Tsubota often dared to go a bit further and entered the caves. He would try and per-suade anyone in the cave to surrender to avoid being killed.

According to Tsubota, following the de-mand for surrender U.S. forces would system-atically destroy the caves with explosives to prevent Japanese soldiers from escaping or using the complex cave network to mount a counter attack.

In recounting one event, Tsubota said he arrived at a cave and knew immediately there were people inside because of how quiet it was. He said caves would usually buzz with the sounds of insects if empty.

Tsubota removed his blouse to prove he was unarmed and entered the cave not knowing the impact his actions would have on the lives of the innocent people inside.

While inside, Tsubota recalled hearing the explosions of nearby caves being destroyed. He knew if there was anyone inside the cave, they would have to be brought out quickly.

It was then Tsubota discovered approximate-ly 20 civilians in the cave pretending to be dead to escape what they believed would be certain death if discovered by the American soldiers. After Tsubota pleaded with them to come out, convincing them they were safe, they exited the cave. One small girl who was so scared she could not move, had to be carried out, he said.

But not all Tsubota’s stories end as well. Even now, 63 years later, he still has a bit of trouble reliving some memories.

“A week after the surrender of Okinawa…” Tsubota begins to say, but then pauses and glances back at two swords, one slightly discol-ored from blood, before continuing.

“Me and a friend decided to go look for souvenirs,” he said. “Since most of the people were searching the beaches we decided to look somewhere else.”

He and his friend soon came across a seem-ingly empty cave.

Tsubota went into the cave, and around the first bend, discovered the body of a Japanese soldier. The soldier had taken his own life by impaling himself with his sword. Tsubota de-cided to take the sword. However, before bend-ing to grab it, he put his hands together and said a prayer for the fallen soldier.

As he stood up with the sword in his hands, he felt the tip of another sword press against his back. A Japanese Naval Officer in the cave had watched him remove the sword from the soldier’s body and was now confronting him. The officer told Tsubota the only reason he did not kill him was because he had prayed for his comrade.

The officer ushered Tsubota out of the cave with his sword still at Tsubota’s back. Once outside, the officer faced Tsubota and sur-rendered his own sword. The officer then said he needed to relieve himself and disappeared down a nearby path.

After waiting ten minutes, Tsubota and his friend started down the path the officer had

walked searching for him. They found the path ended at a cliff leaving little doubt as to the fate of the Japanese soldier.

Today, both swords hang on Tsubota’s living room wall, resting behind a pane of glass on green felt, framed in a wood case adorned with gold trim.

Tsubota spent two years in the Army before getting out and working with the civil service as the first interpreter for Air Force units on Okinawa.

In 1947, Tsubota married his wife Kiyko who later bore one daughter and two younger sons.

After 46 years and two months of govern-ment service Tsubota retired on Jan. 8, 1993.

Today, Tsubota keeps himself busy by

practicing the art of glass blowing in a work shop he constructed at home. With self-built machines, Tsubota says he has all he needs to keep himself busy in retirement while also making a little extra money selling the finished product.

And even to this day, he makes his way to every Battle of Okinawa memorial ceremony he can in respect of the hundreds of thousands who lost their lives in the fighting.

Perhaps he also goes in honor of his father’s wisdom – that war is not only about death, but life – knowing that more would have died, were it not for his efforts, and the efforts of other translators, to call into the darkness of the caves and lead those inside to the light.

LIVING BY HIS FATHER’S WORDS

Terry Tsubota, shortly after graduating from Army basic training in Halemanu, Wahiawa, in central Awahu. Photo courtesy of Terry Tsubota

� okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008

Pfc. Michael Nerlobservation post staff

Ninth Engineer Support Battalion traveled across the world from Oki-nawa to Marine Corps Air Ground

Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., to take part in Mojave Viper, a 28-day pre-de-ployment training evolution.

The more than 100 Marines with A Com-pany, 9th ESB, conducted night training from sundown until approximately 6:30 a.m from June 7 to July 14.

The unit is scheduled to deploy to Taqqa-dum, Iraq, next month, said Master Sgt. Ste-ven Wheelbarger, the A Co. operations chief.

Ninth ESB will relieve 7th ESB to take over their list of projects and priorities, said Wheelbarger.

Ninth ESB is a self-sufficient battalion and can support itself for an extended peri-od of time, said Wheelbarger. The battalion can transport enough supplies and assets to be able to go 30 days or more without being resupplied.

The training is done with a full combat load to get Marines used to working with all of their gear, said Cpl. Darrin Russel, a super-vising noncommissioned officer with A Co.

Marines with 9th ESB worked on various projects throughout the nights, including an eight-and-a-half foot lookout tower com-monly called a crow’s nest. Other projects included constructing two Southwest Asia huts for infantry Marines to use once they occupy the site. The project also included four machine gun bunkers for security.

“We have been working in six- and seven-man teams on all the projects,” said Lance

Cpl. Rudolph Wilson, a combat engineer with A Co.

The Marines have been working in teams on individual areas to keep the project mov-ing along smoothly.

Heavy equipment operators, operating equipment such as D-7 bulldozers, helped to speed up progress in building sites. Heavy equipment operators and their supervisors coordinated to form burms to make a wall around the compound and to build Hesco Barriers. Hesco Barriers are walls made of

collapsible wire-mesh and canvas screen that are filled with dirt.

Some Marines with 9th ESB who have deployed to Korea, Bangladesh and Iraq with the battalion say this situation is very simi-lar to what they experience on a deployment.

“We get actual training in the rear,” said Russel.

With 9th ESB complete with their train-ing, they are better prepared and have better knowledge about the desert, said Wheel-barger.

Marines with Alpha Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, work through the night using generator-powered lights while building their battalion’s compound June 26. Mojave Viper is a month-long pre-deployment training evolution at Marine Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif. Photos by Pfc. Michael Nerl

DAWNFROM

TILLDUSK

9th ESB pulls constructive all-nighters during Mohave Viper

Cpl. Tyler Goddard and Lance Cpl. Vincent Reynoso, both with 9th Engineer Support Battalion, dig out a machine gun bunker June 26 during Mojave Viper.

okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008 �

Lance Cpl. Andrew S. Avittokinawa marine staff

Three Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps midshipmen from Pennsylvania

University recently took part in a three-day, two-night training evolution in Thailand with Combat Assault Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and Royal Thai Marines.

Midshipmen 2nd class, Joseph T. Nagle, Joseph A. Shenk and Giovanni F. Ferro joined the more than 40 Marines and sailors to expand their knowledge of the Marine Corps.

While assigned to CAC, the midshipmen engaged in squad physical training, weap-ons disassembly and function checks and various training in the tropical climate of Thailand.

Each midshipman was assigned to a squad who mentored them through training while demonstrating the inner workings of an infantry platoon.

Ferro said he was very impressed with the effectiveness of the expierineced lead-

ership provided by the unit’s noncommis-sioned officers and staff NCO’s.

The midshipmen agreed that training with Marines of CAC provided them the only “real” insight they’ve had into the Ma-rine Corps.

“It was a lot to learn in the beginning,” Ferro said. “The customs and courtesies, properly addressing someone, I really haven’t done this kind of stuff before.”

The exercise included training with Thai forces as well. While conducting grappling training with the Thai Marines, the some-what reserved midshipmen got a chance to demonstrate a little agressiveness.

But physical ability wasn’t all that was tested in the training. During a course on jungle survival, the three learned to iden-tify edible fruits, leaves and vegetables in the jungle. The jungle training ended with an exhibition from the Thai Marines on how to handle and kill a cobra.

“Its going be a good story to tell when we get back to the states,” Nagle said.

The midshipmen also took part in live-

fire training. During the exercise Shenk received a small burn when an ejected shell casing got lodged between his flak jacket and neck.

“He’s actually pretty proud of that,” said Cpl. Chris L. Guthrie, Shenk’s fire team leader.

The midshipmen also learned about im-provised explosive devices, clearing build-ings and mountain warfare during classes taught by Marines from CAC.

“Who better to learn from then the guys who actually have done it,” said Shenk pointing out that most of the Marines in the platoon had been to either Iraq or Afghani-stan.

Although the midshipmen were attached to CAC for a short time, they won’t soon forget the lessons learned. All three agreed they looked to someday draw on their expe-riences here.

Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Train-ing 2008 is an annual series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. and several Southeast Asian nations.

Lance Cpl. Tyler J. Hlavacokinawa marine staff

For Status of Forces Agreement personnel on Okinawa aiming to

shoot off a few paintballs, the Navy Morale Welfare and Recreation’s newly opened paintball field is the perfect target.

The paintball field, which opened Apr. 10, is divided in two sections: a speed ball section and a jungle ball section, ac-cording to Chad Hadden, a fitness specialist with Navy MWR.

Speedball is a fast paced team game usually involv-ing three to seven players per team. The game is played on a field with only a few structures to provide limited protection. Players must move aggressively and strategically around the course to avoid being hit and score hits on their opponents, Hadden said.

“In speedball, it’s one shot, one kill and it’s very fast paced. The idea is to hit your opponent with quick, accurate fire,” he said.

For a bit slower but more strategic game, players can maneuver through the thick jungle grove in the jungle ball area. In this game, a ball is placed in the center of the area and teams must locate, retrieve and remove the ball from the field to win. Teams can

Midshipmen embed with Marines on cARAT, taste corps life

Paintball offers recreational opportunity, strategic flair

set up fighting positions, ambush points and conduct patrolling to locate and wipe out the opposing team to complete the mission.

“Jungle ball is more team based and is centered on good tactics,” Hadden said. “The only way to (take out) your opponent is to hit them in the head, neck or chest area, which would equal a real kill on the battlefield. Also the heat and terrain make players feel like they are in a true

jungle environment.”Marine Corps Bases

Japan Order 5500.2C prohibits the possession of air pellet guns or replicas, whether they can fire pro-jectiles or not. Therefore, MWR provides all neces-sary equipment to play.

“Here we supply every-thing for the players and are always open for reserva-tions,” Hadden said.

Recent guest 2nd Lt. James Wang, a platoon commander with Com-

munications Company, Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, said the paintball facility offered a unique recreational experi-ence for his Marines while promoting teamwork and Esprit de Corps.

“Myself and other Ma-rines here look forward to coming out to this facility again,” he said.

The Navy MWR paintball field is located one mile before White Beach’s main gate and of-

fers open play every Sat-urday after payday. It can be reserved by a group of 20 or more any day of the week. The field hosts one-on-one to fifteen-on-fifteen matches. The cost is $10 dollars per person to use the field and $32 for a paintball gun, hop-per, CO2 cartridges and bag of paintballs.

For more information and/or to make reservations contact Navy MWR at 632-4013/4014.

Marines with Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division assault the ‘enemy’ June 27 during a round of speedball at the newly-opened Navy Morale Welfare and Recreation paintball field one mile from White Beach Naval Facility. Photo by Lance Cpl. Tyler J. Hlavac

10 okinawa marine | FeATuRe | july 18, 2008

Pfc. Antwain J. Grahamokinawa marine staff

From popping and locking to break dancing, eight teams made it clear the dance

floor was a war zone June 29 at Thirsty’s, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma’s enlisted club.

More than 200 people attended the Freestyle 2-on-2 dance battle hosted by Marine Corps Commu-nity Services.

The event opened at 9:30 p.m. with an exhibition performance by team Spirytus, a local professional female dance duo.

Following the opening perfor-mance, American and Japanese teams faced off in the first of three rounds.

The dancers gave it their all and had fun doing it, said B-Boy dancer Lance Cpl. Sidney H. Johnson III, who goes by Sid Vicious on the dance floor.

In the first round, four of the eight teams were eliminated in four three-minute battles.

The event was scored by judges Rocko K. Hudson, local dance choreographer for T- Da Dance Studios, Ashley Mlay, MCCS special events coordinator, and Sunagawa Yasuaki, 2008 B-Boy champion of Okinawa.

Many of the dancers in the competition have been danc-ing for years, according to Ai Shears, the MCCS coordinator for the dance battle.

“These dancers have a lot of talent.” she said. “The judges had their work cut out for them.”

After a short break, the remain-ing teams kicked off the second round. After two four-minute battles, two teams were eliminated, leaving teams S-ke and One Peace.

The stage was set and the line

One Peace satisfies ‘thirst’ for victory at dance competition

Pfc. Antwain J. Grahamokinawa marine staff

Reggae band “Blue Island Tribe” visited Okinawa and put on a live perfor-

mance for service members at the Globe and Anchor enlisted club on Foster July 3.

The six-man band from Iowa came to the island as part of the Armed Forces Entertain-ment Tour.

Blue Island Tribe is a rock band with a high-energy reg-gae style of music, said Bran-don Clark, bass guitar player for the band.

Kelly Powers, rhythm guitar player for the band, had his own take: “It’s rock with an island feel.”

Being their first overseas tour, the band’s objective for this tour is to support and entertain the troops while pro-moting their music.

“At first, we thought the troops would be apprehen-sive to our music, but instead they’ve been very responsive to it,” said James Frey, lead singer for the band.

During their performance, the band played well over 20 songs including a medley of songs from artists such as Bob Marley and The Beach Boys.

Each member of the band added a touch of personality to the performance.

Frey’s energy delivered a vibe that connected with the crowd, said Lance Cpl. Ryan Eugene, an audience member.

At one point during the con-cert, Frey took his performance off stage to greet and sing to crowd.

John Schminke, lead guitar-ist of the band, entertained the audience with a rocked-out ren-dition of the National Anthem.

The band’s performance was full of energy and kept the audience entertained from beginning to end.

“I came for a show, and I got more than I bargained for,” said audience member Lance Cpl. Andre Vorasane

The band performed again at Kadena Air Base July 4 in the closing performance of their Armed Forces Entertainment Tour.

Before making their way back to Iowa, the band wanted to leave service members with a message.

“We are grateful for the troops doing what they are doing for America and the world,” said Mike Schminke, drummer for the band.

The band hopes they get the opportunity to return and play for the Marines again.

“We would love to return to Okinawa,” Clark said.” There have been discussions about us returning already.

blue Island Tribe rocks Okinawa

Lance Cpl. Sydney H. Johnson III flies into a single-handed back flip June 29 at the Freestyle 2-on-2 Dance Battle on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Photos by Pfc. Antwain J. Graham

was drawn for the final round.Dancers from both teams

stepped on and off the dance floor, popping and locking, twisting, turning and spinning.

In the highlight move of a spirited performance, One Peace dancer Taiga “Tiger” Ishioka, per-formed a corkscrew flip, thrusting himself into the air completing two full rotations before landing.

Suddenly, time was called, the competition was over, and both teams made their way to the dance floor for the judge’s decision.

After a brief deliberation, Ashley Mlay raised the hands of One Peace and it was over. The local team had won the competition and had a four-foot tall trophy to prove it.

“It was definitely something worth seeing,” said Lance Cpl. Sophiektra Muong, a spectator at the dance battle. “I recommend anyone going to see it next time they have a battle.”

Team One Peace members Taiga “Tiger” Ishioka and Yoshisune “Yo-Chan” Arakaki show off their new trophy after winning the dance battle.

James Frey, the lead singer of Blue Island Tribe, rocks the mike in a performance at the Globe and Anchor on July 4. Photo by Pfc. Antwain J. Graham

okinawa marine | MARkeTPLAce | july 18, 2008 11

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: Sat., 3:30 p.m., Bldg. 455• Jewish: Fri., Traditional, 6:00 p.m.; Informal (first and third Friday), 6:30 p.m.• Muslim: Friday prayer, 12:45 p.m.• Protestant: Sun., 8:30 a.m.

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

CAMP HANSeN | 623-4694• Catholic: Sun., 10 a.m., E. Chapel• Latter Day Saints: Sun., 3 p.m., W. Chapel• Protestant: Sun., 11 a.m., W. Chapel

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

CAMP SHIeLDS | 632-4192• Protestant: Sun., 6 p.m.

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

KADeNA AIR bASe | 634-1288• Buddhist: Sat., 10 a.m., Bldg. 856• 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., Contemp., 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., Chapel 1 Sat., 6 p.m., Bldg. 856

CAMP COURTNey | 622-9350• Catholic: Sun., 8 and 11:15 a.m.; Daily, 11:45 a.m.• Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.m. • Episcopal: Sun., 6:30 p.m.

CAMP KINSeR | 637-1148• Catholic: Sun., 11 a.m.• Gospel: Sun., 8 a.m.• Protestant: Sun., 9:30 a.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 Tue., noon, Hospital Chapel (Eucharist)

FOsTeR 645-3465

FRIDAY Get Smart (PG13), 7 p.m.; Hancock (PG13), 10 p.m.

SATURDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), noon and 3:30 p.m.; Get Smart (PG13), 7 p.m.; The Forbidden Kingdom (PG13), 10 p.m.

SUNDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG), 1 and 4 p.m.; Get Smart (PG13), 8 p.m.

MONDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 3 p.m.; Get Smart (PG13), 7 p.m.

TUESDAY The Forbidden Kingdom (PG13), 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY The Strangers (R), 7 p.m.

THURSDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG), 3 and 7 p.m.

kAdenA634-1869

FRIDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 3 and 6 p.m.; The Stranger (R), 9 p.m. SATURDAY Hancock (PG13), noon and 6 pm.; The Strangers (R), 3 p.m.; The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG13), 9 p.m.

SUNDAY Hancock (PG13), noon and 4 p.m.; The Strangers (R), 7 p.m.

MONDAY Hancock (PG13), 7 p.m.

TUESDAY Wall-E (G), 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY Wall-E (G), 7 p.m.

THURSDAY Wall-E (G), 7 p.m.

AuTOMObILes’94 nissan pulsarJCi Sep. 09, $600 OBO, 646-9309’94 TOYOTa Mark iiJCi Sep. 09, $2,800 OBO, 646-2724’96 MiTsubishi Delica vanJCi May 09, $3,500 OBO, (080) 3544-8285’95 TOYOTa celicaJCi Aug. 09, $1,800 OBO, (090) 6861-7659’97 hOnDa sMXJCi Nov. 09, $2,700 OBO, (090) 6859-5377’98 nissan skYlineJCi Dec. 09, $3,200 OBO, (098) 936-6865’96 TOYOTa currenJCi Jan. 09, $1,300

OBO, (080) 3540-6130’96 nissan rasheenJCi Mar. 09, $3,000 OBO, (090) 9141-7128’94 TOYOTa celicaJCi Oct. 09, $1,750 OBO, (080) 3459-2680’95 hOnDa DOManiJCi June 10, $2,000 OBO, 646-3715’93 TOYOTa luciDaJCi Aug. 09, $1,000 OBO, 646-3715’95 TOYOTa celicaJCi June 10, $1,500 OBO, 633-1593’93 TOYOTa liTe-aceJCi May 10, $999 OBO, 636-3100’95 nissan ceFirOJCi July 09, $2,000 OBO, 646-8325

’94 TOYOTa cresTaJCi May 09, $2,000 OBO, 646-8325’96 hOnDa ODYsseYJCi May 09, $2,600 OBO, 646-8136’96 hOnDa ODYsseYJCi July 09, $2,300 OBO, 637-2658

MOTORcycLes’05 harleY DaviDsOn 883 spOrTsTer$8,000 OBO, (098) 879-2999’04 harleY DaviDsOn Xl 883 spOrTsTer JCi March 09, $5,500, (080) 3487-2975

cHAPeL scHeduLe

For more information, contact the Single

Marine Program Office at 645-3681.

NEW SMP MEETING SCHEDULES• First Tuesday of the month: Camp Kinser, 9:30 a.m. at Surfside Club; MCAS Futenma, 11 a.m. at the USO; Camp Foster, 2 p.m. at Building 5674.

• First Wednesday of the month: Camp Schwab, 9 a.m. at Building 3509; Camp Hansen, 11 a.m. at the Palms; Camp Courtney, 2 p.m. at Barracks 4433.

JULY 25 | ALL CAMPS BOWLING TOURNAMENT• Two 4-member teams from each camp are eligible to compete in this 40-frame tournament at the Foster bowling center from 1-5 p.m. The cost is $5.25 per person; there will be prizes and giveaways.

• Contact your SMP representative to sign up.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES• The Marine Thrift Shop on Camp Foster requests two volunteers on a weekly basis from Camps Kinser, Foster, Courtney, Hansen and Schwab and MCAS Futenma. 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.

— Remote control motorcycle, $40; 420 watt Pioneer car speakers, $30, 633-1593— Proform treadmill TX 350, $100 OBO, 646-8325— Bechtel Elementary spirit wear (Medium size): Red polo, white short-sleeve T-shirt, gray

long-sleeve T-shirt, $25 for all three; Toddler high-back booster seats: tan Alpha Elite Apex, gray plaid Eddie Bauer brands, $30 each or $50 for both, 622-5168— Six-drawer girls’ dresser with mirror, four-drawer girls’ dresser, $100, 646-5405

MIsceLLAneOus

sInGLe MARIne PROGRAM evenTs

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

Fieldhouse.

In THeATeRs JuLy 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.

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

usOMOvie nightS

FRIDAY The Strangers (R), 6 p.m.; The Forbidden Kingdom (PG13), 9 p.m.

SATURDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 6 p.m.; The Strang-ers (R), 9 p.m.

SUNDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 2 p.m.; The Strang-ers (R), 5:30 p.m.

MONDAY & TUESDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG), 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY Leatherheads (PG13), 7 p.m.

THURSDAY Hancock (PG13), 7 p.m.

HAnsen623-4564

FRIDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG), 6:30 p.m.; What Happens in Vegas (PG13), 9:30 p.m.

SATURDAY Speed Racer (PG), 2 p.m.; iron Man (PG13), 7 p.m.

SUNDAY Wall-E (G), 7 p.m.

MONDAY What Happens in Vegas (PG13), 7 p.m.

TUESDAY Closed

WEDNESDAY iron Man (PG13), 1 p.m.; Hancock (PG13), 7 p.m.

THURSDAY Closed

cOuRTney622-9616

FRIDAY The incredible Hulk (PG13), 7 p.m.

SATURDAY What Happens in Vegas (PG13), 5 p.m.

SUNDAY iron Man (PG13), 5 p.m.

MONDAY-THURSDAY Closed

scHwAb625-2333

FRIDAY Wall-E (G), 3 p.m., The Strang-ers (R), 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY Wall-E (G), 3 and 6:30 p.m.

SUNDAY The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG), 3 p.m.; The Strang-ers (R), 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY & TUESDAY Closed

WEDNESDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG); 3 and 6:30 p.m.

THURSDAY Closed

kInseR637-2177

FRIDAY What Happens in Vegas (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

SATURDAY Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG), 4 and 7 p.m.

SUNDAY iron Man (PG13), 4 p.m.; What Happens in Vegas (PG13), 7 p.m.

MONDAY The incredible Hulk (PG13), 6:30 p.m.

TUESDAY Closed

WEDNESDAY Closed

THURSDAY Closed

FuTenMA636-3890

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

puBliC affairs CHiEf Master Gunnery Sgt. Constance S. Heinz

prEss CHiEf Master Sgt. Mark E. Bradley

dEsign EditOr Cpl. Eric D. Arndt

EditOr Sgt. Rodolfo E. Toro

OKinawa MarinE nEwspapErH&S Battalion MCB PAO

Unit 35002FPO AP 96373-5002

CEntral BurEauCamp Foster

DSN 645-7422

nOrtHErn BurEauCamp HansenDSN 623-4054

okinawa marine | sPORTs | july 18, 20081�

CARAT colleagues create contact coconut competition

Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicksokinawa marine staff

CAMP FOSTER — Russell Normandin cruised to victory after taking the lead in dra-matic fashion on the 16th hole and winning in the seniors’ division of the Northern Camp Commander’s Cup Golf Tournament at Awase Meadows Golf Course July 8.

Normandin carded a 74 — the best overall score in the tournament.

“I made a 40-foot birdie putt on 16 that gave me the lead and I never looked back as I almost birdied 17 and made a solid par on 18,” Normandin said.

Nine teams composed of Marines and local nationals competed in the tournament.

Jeremy Krumnow snuck past Jason Shin with a score of 79, winning the open divi-sion. Shin finished with a score of 80 and was awarded second place.

The 7th Communications Battalion team finished first with a score of 507 followed by Team Ginoza with a score of 521.

“The level of play was very good,” said Corey Carter, a sports specialist with Marine Corps Community Services. “I plan on send-ing two of the participants to tryout for the All-Marine Golf Team.”

The tournament consisted of one round of golf where competitors fought for victory in the team, senior and open divisions.

Normandin beat Miyagi Toshimaso, who finished with a score of 76.

“Toshimaso was pretty tough,” Normandin said. “He did not miss a putt and was lethal with his short game.”

Normandin credits his win to his mental game and support from his family.

“It felt good to win,” Normandin said. “I have not been this dangerous on the golf course since 1998 and I owe it all to my wife for being so supportive.”

According to Devin Novak, an MCCS shift manager who helped organize the tourna-ment, it was a perfect day for golf and the tournament provided a great getaway from the daily routine.

“It was a good way for service members to get a break from work,” he said. “The tourna-ment promoted competition between the units which builds morale and camaraderie. If somebody brings the trophy home to the unit it makes them feel good.”

Five teams from the northern camps will compete with seven teams from the southern camps on July 22 in the Commanding Gener-al’s Cup Golf Tournament.

Raymond Brown crushes his golf ball in the Northern Camp Commander’s Cup Golf Tournament at Awase Meadows Golf Course July 8. Nine teams composed of Marines and local nationals competed in the tournament. Photo by Lance Cpl. Ryan Wicks

Marines, locals compete in cc cup tourney

More than 40 Marines with Combat Assault Company, 3rd Marine Regiment and Singapore Guardsmen, enjoyed a friendly competition of ‘Marine Ball’ June 29 on Sudong Island, Singapore. The Marines and guards on combined teams ducked and weaved around their opponents while playing the football-like sport. The goal of the game was to reach the opponent’s end zone with a coconut by executing passes and running plays. CAC is currently participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2008, an annual series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. and several Southeast Asian nations. Photo by Lance Cpl. Andrew S. Avitt