FUTASHIKA RIVER, IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marines from Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 and Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni volunteered their time to cleanup the environment at the Futashika River, Iwakuni, Japan, May 18.
Many clean ups and other volunteer activities have been hosted by the Single Marine Program. However, this is the first time the Marine Lounge has hosted a volunteer clean up.
Volunteers were able to sign up at either the Hornet’s Nest or the Marine Lounge for this opportunity.
“We wanted all the single and unaccompanied Marines and sailors to have the opportunity to become more involved with off-base volunteer opportunities,” said Oana Ivanoff, Marine Lounge manager. “This is a good opportunity for active duty to give back to the Japanese community.”
Although this is the first time the Marine Lounge hosted a volunteer effort, they plan to continue to do so and make it tradition.
“I would like to make this an annual tradition if not more,” said Ivanoff. “These events take time to prepare for, but give Marines and sailors beneficial volunteer opportunities.”
Throughout the day the volunteers cleaned a water ditch which feeds into the local Japanese rice fields.
The servicemembers also cleared brush, wood and trash from along the river side, said Ryan L. Leming, Recycle Center solid waste manager. Performing volunteer opportunities gives Marines the chance to venture off the beaten path and immerse themselves into the local landscape.
“I can guarantee most of these Marines have never seen this and would not have seen this if they hadn’t volunteered for this opportunity,” said Leming.
The amount of trash, wood and brush cleaned up was more than expected in the time allotted.
“I thought the cleanup went really well. Nobody got hurt, we got a lot done with less people and we accomplished more than we set out to do,” said Leming.
With the cleanup done, the Marines enjoyed a barbecue while talking about the day’s events and other topics.
“I highly recommend Marines take the extra time to volunteer because it is very beneficial to not only themselves but the community,” said Lance Cpl. Jonathan M. Garcia-Carabajal, MALS-12 aviation ordnance systems technician. “Only good can come out of it.”
Volunteer opportunities are everywhere.
Many choose to volunteer for the awards and letters of appreciation they receive, while others choose to do it because they feel good about helping.
“I volunteer because I enjoy going out to support the community and to demonstrate the good nature and willingness Marines have to help their host country,” said Garcia-Carabajal.
More volunteer opportunities are on the horizon.
For information on future SMP and Marine Lounge events, contact the Hornet’s Nest at 253-3250 or the Marine Lounge at 253-5368.