.
Marine Corps Air Station Futenma

 

Marine Corps Air Station Futenma

Retired military working dog Patti poses for a photo before her award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Patti received an award from the U.S. War Dogs Association for her service in 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During her time overseas, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and while bravely serving alongside the deployed troops, suffered injuries in the line of duty. Patti’s handler, James Altman, who was at the time, a Marine staff sergeant, stayed by Patti’s side through more than six months of rehabilitation before retiring her and adopting her into his own home. Today, Patti still resides with Altman, a Sebring, Florida, native, who serves as the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Retired military working dog Patti poses for a photo before her award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Patti received an award from the U.S. War Dogs Association for her service in 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During her time overseas, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and while bravely serving alongside the deployed troops, suffered injuries in the line of duty. Patti’s handler, James Altman, who was at the time, a Marine staff sergeant, stayed by Patti’s side through more than six months of rehabilitation before retiring her and adopting her into his own home. Today, Patti still resides with Altman, a Sebring, Florida, native, who serves as the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
U.S. Marine Corps military working dog, Patti is presented a U.S. Military Working Dog Services Award during an award ceremony in her honor on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2016. During her deployment, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and suffered grave injuries in the line of duty. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Janessa Pon)
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
U.S. Marine Corps military working dog, Patti is presented a U.S. Military Working Dog Services Award during an award ceremony in her honor on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2016. During her deployment, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and suffered grave injuries in the line of duty. (U.S Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Janessa Pon)
Lt. Col. Robert T. Sweginnis reads a citation honoring retired military working dog, Patti during an award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The award ceremony honored Patti, who served as a combat tracking dog during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Patti served alongside her handler, James Altman, who was a staff sergeant at the time, and was injured in the line of duty. Her injuries left her paralyzed and the two worked together through her six-month rehabilitation period and have been inseparable ever since. Altman permanently adopted Patti in 2008, continuing their partnership even after the mission was complete. Patti received a medal and a citation from the U.S. War Dogs Association, stating, “The United States War Dogs Association presents this award to military canines who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America with honor, courage and loyalty in time of conflict, so that we may live in freedom.”
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Lt. Col. Robert T. Sweginnis reads a citation honoring retired military working dog, Patti during an award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The award ceremony honored Patti, who served as a combat tracking dog during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Patti served alongside her handler, James Altman, who was a staff sergeant at the time, and was injured in the line of duty. Her injuries left her paralyzed and the two worked together through her six-month rehabilitation period and have been inseparable ever since. Altman permanently adopted Patti in 2008, continuing their partnership even after the mission was complete. Patti received a medal and a citation from the U.S. War Dogs Association, stating, “The United States War Dogs Association presents this award to military canines who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America with honor, courage and loyalty in time of conflict, so that we may live in freedom.”
Patti sports a medal presented during an award ceremony in her honor Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The ceremony was held on behalf of U.S. War Dogs Association to honor her service in 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During her deployment, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and suffered grave injuries in the line of duty. Patti’s handler, James Altman,  stayed by her side through more than six months of rehabilitation before retiring her and adopting her into his own home. Officers and other Marine officials attended the ceremony to honor Patti and Altman’s accomplishments during their time in service. Today, Patti lives happily with Altman, a Sebring, Florida, native, who serves as the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense protection officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Patti sports a medal presented during an award ceremony in her honor Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The ceremony was held on behalf of U.S. War Dogs Association to honor her service in 2007 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During her deployment, Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and suffered grave injuries in the line of duty. Patti’s handler, James Altman, stayed by her side through more than six months of rehabilitation before retiring her and adopting her into his own home. Officers and other Marine officials attended the ceremony to honor Patti and Altman’s accomplishments during their time in service. Today, Patti lives happily with Altman, a Sebring, Florida, native, who serves as the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense protection officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
Patrick Adams congratulates retired military working dog, Patti after her award ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2016. Patti received an award for bravely serving as a combat tracking dog during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Janessa Pon)
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Patrick Adams congratulates retired military working dog, Patti after her award ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 24, 2016. Patti received an award for bravely serving as a combat tracking dog during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Janessa Pon)
A United States Military Working Dog Services Award rests on retired military working dog, Patti’s neck after her award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The U.S. War Dogs Association promotes the recognition and honor of military working dogs nationwide and presents awards to handlers and dogs who have remained committed to excellence in their work over the years. Patti received the award for her actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and though injured in the line of duty, returned to recertification several months of rehabilitation later. Today, she lives happily with her former handler and current owner, James Altman, the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense protection agent on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, who hails from Sebring, Florida.
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
A United States Military Working Dog Services Award rests on retired military working dog, Patti’s neck after her award ceremony Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The U.S. War Dogs Association promotes the recognition and honor of military working dogs nationwide and presents awards to handlers and dogs who have remained committed to excellence in their work over the years. Patti received the award for her actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Patti served as a combat tracking dog, and though injured in the line of duty, returned to recertification several months of rehabilitation later. Today, she lives happily with her former handler and current owner, James Altman, the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense protection agent on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, who hails from Sebring, Florida.
James Altman delivers a speech about the unbreakable bond between dogs and their handlers following an award ceremony for Patti, a retired military working dog, Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Patti and Altman served together during Operation Iraqi Freedom while Altman served as military working dog handler. Patti was injured in the line of duty while serving as a combat tracking dog. “The bond between a handler and his military working dog is indescribable,” said Altman. “When she was injured, she suffered spinal embolism which paralyzed her completely. I fed her, I chewed her food and passed water to her … they said she should have died, but she didn’t. She wanted to stay with me. It took about six months of rehabilitation, but we worked together so she could walk again and when she was recertified as a tracking dog, I put in her retirement papers and here she is today.” Altman is the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and is a Sebring, Florida, native.
Marine’s four-legged friend receives award for actions in Operation Iraqi Freedom
James Altman delivers a speech about the unbreakable bond between dogs and their handlers following an award ceremony for Patti, a retired military working dog, Oct. 24 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Patti and Altman served together during Operation Iraqi Freedom while Altman served as military working dog handler. Patti was injured in the line of duty while serving as a combat tracking dog. “The bond between a handler and his military working dog is indescribable,” said Altman. “When she was injured, she suffered spinal embolism which paralyzed her completely. I fed her, I chewed her food and passed water to her … they said she should have died, but she didn’t. She wanted to stay with me. It took about six months of rehabilitation, but we worked together so she could walk again and when she was recertified as a tracking dog, I put in her retirement papers and here she is today.” Altman is the installation chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and is a Sebring, Florida, native.
A child sits in the driver’s seat of a Humvee Sept. 24 during the annual Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MCAS Futenma opened its flight line to Status of Forces Agreement Personnel and Okinawa residents to enjoy local vendors, games and live musical performances. Marines stood by their vehicles to answer observers’ questions about the vehicles, their occupations, and their daily lives as service members. The fair is one of the many community events hosted by Marines on the station that strengthen the relationship between SOFA members and Okinawa residents.
Futenma Flight Line Fair features food, fun for family
A child sits in the driver’s seat of a Humvee Sept. 24 during the annual Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MCAS Futenma opened its flight line to Status of Forces Agreement Personnel and Okinawa residents to enjoy local vendors, games and live musical performances. Marines stood by their vehicles to answer observers’ questions about the vehicles, their occupations, and their daily lives as service members. The fair is one of the many community events hosted by Marines on the station that strengthen the relationship between SOFA members and Okinawa residents.
The crowd eagerly awaits a live, free concert Sept. 24 during the Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The annual open-gate event strengthened the relationship between Status of Forces Agreement personnel and Okinawa residents and reeled in more than 30,000 attendees. The event ushered in more than 30 thousand guests who enjoyed a vast array of ethnic foods, games and musical performances, headlined by The Band Perry, an American country music group.
Futenma Flight Line Fair features food, fun for family
The crowd eagerly awaits a live, free concert Sept. 24 during the Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The annual open-gate event strengthened the relationship between Status of Forces Agreement personnel and Okinawa residents and reeled in more than 30,000 attendees. The event ushered in more than 30 thousand guests who enjoyed a vast array of ethnic foods, games and musical performances, headlined by The Band Perry, an American country music group.
Kimberly Perry, the lead vocalist of The Band Perry, sings onstage Sept. 24 during the Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MCAS Futenma opened its flight line to Status of Forces Agreement Personnel and Okinawa residents as they enjoyed local vendors, games and a performance by The Band Perry. The Band Perry is an American country group featuring siblings Kimberly, Neil and Reid Perry.  Perry thanked the audience for their sacrifices overseas and said she felt honored to be able to perform for them.
Futenma Flight Line Fair features food, fun for family
Kimberly Perry, the lead vocalist of The Band Perry, sings onstage Sept. 24 during the Flight Line Fair at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MCAS Futenma opened its flight line to Status of Forces Agreement Personnel and Okinawa residents as they enjoyed local vendors, games and a performance by The Band Perry. The Band Perry is an American country group featuring siblings Kimberly, Neil and Reid Perry. Perry thanked the audience for their sacrifices overseas and said she felt honored to be able to perform for them.
– Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members and U.S. Marines introduce themselves during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event Oct. 7 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event was a three-day training evolution that allowed U.S. service members and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members to observe each other’s tactical procedures and operations while building the bilateral relationship between U.S. service members and its host nation. The exchange included reinforcing troop movement, vehicle inspections, and the escalation of force.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
– Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members and U.S. Marines introduce themselves during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event Oct. 7 aboard Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event was a three-day training evolution that allowed U.S. service members and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force service members to observe each other’s tactical procedures and operations while building the bilateral relationship between U.S. service members and its host nation. The exchange included reinforcing troop movement, vehicle inspections, and the escalation of force.
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force tactical vehicles stand staged during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event was a three-day training evolution that allowed U.S. service members and JGSDF service members to observe each other’s tactical procedures and operations. The training covered troop movement, communications, and vehicle search and seizure.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force tactical vehicles stand staged during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event was a three-day training evolution that allowed U.S. service members and JGSDF service members to observe each other’s tactical procedures and operations. The training covered troop movement, communications, and vehicle search and seizure.
Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force set up tents during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to observe each other’s operation procedures in order to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship. The observation and exchange included troop movement, escalation of force, and vehicle search and seizure.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force set up tents during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The event allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to observe each other’s operation procedures in order to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship. The observation and exchange included troop movement, escalation of force, and vehicle search and seizure.
Patrick Adams, left, discusses the training scheduled to take place during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Tomofusa Hanada Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship by allowing them to observe and exchange each other’s tactical procedures. The event covered methods of troop movement, rules of engagement, and vehicle search and seizure. Hanada is the commanding general of the JGSDF 15th Brigade. Adams is the installation protection director of MCAS Futenma.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
Patrick Adams, left, discusses the training scheduled to take place during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event with Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Tomofusa Hanada Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship by allowing them to observe and exchange each other’s tactical procedures. The event covered methods of troop movement, rules of engagement, and vehicle search and seizure. Hanada is the commanding general of the JGSDF 15th Brigade. Adams is the installation protection director of MCAS Futenma.
U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members mount Japanese tactical vehicles in preparation for the patrolling portion of the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. service members and JGSDF service members to sharpen their tactical skills through observation of each other’s operational procedures. The event covered troop movement, communication, and vehicle search and seizure skills.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members mount Japanese tactical vehicles in preparation for the patrolling portion of the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. service members and JGSDF service members to sharpen their tactical skills through observation of each other’s operational procedures. The event covered troop movement, communication, and vehicle search and seizure skills.
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officials greet JGSDF Maj. Gen. Tomofusa Hanada as he arrives at a site during the annual Guard and Protect, observe and exchange event Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship by allowing them to observe and exchange each other’s tactical procedures. During the event, participating service members discussed and practiced troop movement, rules of engagement, and vehicle search and seizure. Hanada is the commanding general of the JGSDF 15th Brigade.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officials greet JGSDF Maj. Gen. Tomofusa Hanada as he arrives at a site during the annual Guard and Protect, observe and exchange event Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day exchange allowed U.S. and JGSDF service members to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship by allowing them to observe and exchange each other’s tactical procedures. During the event, participating service members discussed and practiced troop movement, rules of engagement, and vehicle search and seizure. Hanada is the commanding general of the JGSDF 15th Brigade.
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Imato translates instructions prior to a patrolling exercise during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day event sharpened U.S. and JGSDF service members’ abilities to defend installations through the observation and exchange of tactical procedures and operational concepts. The training included patrolling, rules of engagement and vehicle search and seizure procedures.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Sgt. Imato translates instructions prior to a patrolling exercise during the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 7 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The three-day event sharpened U.S. and JGSDF service members’ abilities to defend installations through the observation and exchange of tactical procedures and operational concepts. The training included patrolling, rules of engagement and vehicle search and seizure procedures.
U.S. Marines mount Japan Ground Self-Defense Force tactical vehicles before executing the patrolling portion of the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The exchange provided U.S. and JGSDF service members with the opportunity to observe each other’s operation procedures in order to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship. During the patrolling portion of the exchange, service members formed integrated teams and practiced hand and arm signals and proper methods of patrolling areas with varying terrain features.
Always Ready: Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, US Forces sharpen base defense skills during Guard and Protect observation and exchange event
U.S. Marines mount Japan Ground Self-Defense Force tactical vehicles before executing the patrolling portion of the annual Guard and Protect, an observe and exchange event, Oct. 6 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The exchange provided U.S. and JGSDF service members with the opportunity to observe each other’s operation procedures in order to sharpen their defense skill sets and strengthen their bilateral relationship. During the patrolling portion of the exchange, service members formed integrated teams and practiced hand and arm signals and proper methods of patrolling areas with varying terrain features.
Sgt. Maj. Clement C. Pearson writes comments while serving as a judge for the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course. Pearson is the sergeant major of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native.
Fueled to Fight: Futenma Mess Hall Marines cook up hefty helping of competition
Sgt. Maj. Clement C. Pearson writes comments while serving as a judge for the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course. Pearson is the sergeant major of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and a Virginia Beach, Virginia, native.
Master Gunnery Sgt. Tony C. Smith gives critiques to food service specialists after receiving awards for their performance in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course. Smith is a food service specialist with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and a Columbus, Ohio, native.
Fueled to Fight: Futenma Mess Hall Marines cook up hefty helping of competition
Master Gunnery Sgt. Tony C. Smith gives critiques to food service specialists after receiving awards for their performance in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course. Smith is a food service specialist with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan and a Columbus, Ohio, native.
Contestants in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition receive critiques after receiving awards for their performance July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course.
Fueled to Fight: Futenma Mess Hall Marines cook up hefty helping of competition
Contestants in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition receive critiques after receiving awards for their performance July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course.
Competitors in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition pose for photos with the senior enlisted judges after receiving awards for their performance July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course.
Fueled to Fight: Futenma Mess Hall Marines cook up hefty helping of competition
Competitors in the Futenma Mess Hall Chef of the Month competition pose for photos with the senior enlisted judges after receiving awards for their performance July 22 on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The monthly competition is an opportunity for the Marines who are performing well in the workplace and seeking opportunities to better themselves through merit boards and other events. During the competition, the contestants must plan a full multi-course meal, cook the dishes and serve it to a panel of judges who evaluate their meal based on taste, appearance, originality and the Marines’ oral presentations explaining each course.
Marines begin the installation of newly received auxiliary fuel tanks for the UH-1Y Venom at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2016. “We have never installed these in the fleet, which the Marines here with the engineers are accomplishing today,” said Maj. Carl A. Bailey, the executive officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing through the Unit Deployment Program. “These are going to extend our range, our time on station and enable us to self-deploy throughout the Pacific area of operations. Our goal is to self-deploy to the Philippines, and if we can do that, we will not need C-17s, C-5s or any other aircraft. We won’t have to break down our own aircraft, we will just strap on the tanks and go.” The Marines are with HMLA 469. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler S. Giguere)
Forward; Venom capable of deploying farther than ever before
Marines begin the installation of newly received auxiliary fuel tanks for the UH-1Y Venom at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2016. “We have never installed these in the fleet, which the Marines here with the engineers are accomplishing today,” said Maj. Carl A. Bailey, the executive officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing through the Unit Deployment Program. “These are going to extend our range, our time on station and enable us to self-deploy throughout the Pacific area of operations. Our goal is to self-deploy to the Philippines, and if we can do that, we will not need C-17s, C-5s or any other aircraft. We won’t have to break down our own aircraft, we will just strap on the tanks and go.” The Marines are with HMLA 469. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler S. Giguere)
Auxiliary fuel tanks for the UH-1Y Venom are installed onto the aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2016. This is the first time in the Fleet Marine Force that the tanks will be installed and used. “For humanitarian missions, we can provide assistance more quickly and farther out,” said Maj. Carl A. Bailey, the executive officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing through the Unit Deployment Program. “The distances here are extreme, and there is a lot of water and not a lot of gas stations, so being able to strap on these aux-tanks, pick up and go, is going to be a game changer for us.” The Marines are with HMLA 469. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler S. Giguere)
Forward; Venom capable of deploying farther than ever before
Auxiliary fuel tanks for the UH-1Y Venom are installed onto the aircraft at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, June 14, 2016. This is the first time in the Fleet Marine Force that the tanks will be installed and used. “For humanitarian missions, we can provide assistance more quickly and farther out,” said Maj. Carl A. Bailey, the executive officer of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing through the Unit Deployment Program. “The distances here are extreme, and there is a lot of water and not a lot of gas stations, so being able to strap on these aux-tanks, pick up and go, is going to be a game changer for us.” The Marines are with HMLA 469. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler S. Giguere)
Aircraft maintenance Marines perform daily maintenance on a UH-1Y Huey at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The maintainers work in shifts so that each squadron maintains a 24-hour presence at its hangar. The Marines are with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.
Keeping birds in the sky
Aircraft maintenance Marines perform daily maintenance on a UH-1Y Huey at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2016. The maintainers work in shifts so that each squadron maintains a 24-hour presence at its hangar. The Marines are with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.
In this photo, Sgt. Jeffrey L. Allen scopes out the terrain from his seat in a UH-1Y Huey, April 8, 2016, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Allen, along with other crew chiefs and aircraft maintainers, may work up to 16 hours a day performing maintenance and checks on aircraft to ensure safe missions. Allen, from Ennis, Texas, is with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.
Keeping Birds in the Sky
In this photo, Sgt. Jeffrey L. Allen scopes out the terrain from his seat in a UH-1Y Huey, April 8, 2016, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. Allen, along with other crew chiefs and aircraft maintainers, may work up to 16 hours a day performing maintenance and checks on aircraft to ensure safe missions. Allen, from Ennis, Texas, is with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, currently supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program.
Marines conduct a helicopter support team exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 22, 2016. The Marines are landing support specialists, commonly referred to as red patchers, with Landing Support Detachment, 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Red Patchers: The Misunderstood Marines
Marines conduct a helicopter support team exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, April 22, 2016. The Marines are landing support specialists, commonly referred to as red patchers, with Landing Support Detachment, 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Army Sgt. Lauryn Lopez performs a squat while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. Lopez is a military police officer with 247th Military Police Detachment, Okinawa, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)
Service members participate in the Murph Challenge on MCAS Futenma
Army Sgt. Lauryn Lopez performs a squat while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. Lopez is a military police officer with 247th Military Police Detachment, Okinawa, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)
Felix Seraphin performs a pushup while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. Seraphin is a community service coordinator for Marine Corps Community Services, Okinawa, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)
Service members participate in the Murph Challenge on MCAS Futenma
Felix Seraphin performs a pushup while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. Seraphin is a community service coordinator for Marine Corps Community Services, Okinawa, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)
Lance Cpl. Samuel St. Clair, left, and Sgt. Geirrell Grayer perform pullups while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. St. Clair is a financial management resource analyst with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. Grayer is a distribution management specialist with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)
Service members participate in the Murph Challenge on MCAS Futenma
Lance Cpl. Samuel St. Clair, left, and Sgt. Geirrell Grayer perform pullups while participating in the “Murph” Challenge for Memorial Day on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. The “Murph” Challenge is a workout made to honor Lt. Michael “Murph” Murphy, a navy SEAL who died in Afghanistan June 28, 2005, at the age of 29. The challenge consists of a one-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, while wearing a 20 pound vest. St. Clair is a financial management resource analyst with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, MCAS Futenma, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. Grayer is a distribution management specialist with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. (Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Douglas Simons/Released)

                              

Mission

Welcome to the Marine Corps Air Station Futenma web site. This site is intended to make common information available to the public in the most fluid and user-friendly manner possible. At the top of the page you will find a Navigation toolbar which will help direct you to individual pages for leadership information, subordinate sections, and helpful resources. Site maintenance is a continuous process and we are always looking for user feedback. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions to improve the site, please feel free to use the “Contact Webmaster” link on the Contact Us page.

Mission Statement

Operate, maintain, and sustain the Air Station in support of Marine Corps Forces Pacific and follow-on U.S., joint, combined, and allied forces in order to respond to contingencies and deter aggression. Strengthen and enable force projection in the Indo-Asia-Pacific with our allies and partners to defend the interests of the U.S. by providing services, support, and facilities for training and combat readiness.

Helpful Links





III MEF/MCIPAC Guidebook







Outlook Web Access



MCCS Okinawa Official Web site



Current Flag Conditions in Okinawa