MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Thirteen Marines and sailors from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni volunteered their time to clean up areas surrounding the Futashika River near Iwakuni, Japan, October 19, 2012.
This was the second time the Marine Lounge has hosted a Futashika River event.
All unaccompanied servicemembers interested in volunteering had the opportunity to sign up at either the Marine Lounge or the Hornet’s Nest.
“We are trying to get more involved in the Japanese community by picking up garbage,” said Oana Ivanoff, Marine Lounge manager. “Almost all of the volunteers have never been here before and this area is not only a great place to clean up but also a gorgeous area for hiking and taking photos.”
Throughout the day, volunteers trekked the mountain, walked alongside roads and wandered on paths along the river, picking up trash.
“I came on this volunteer project to help clean up the mountain and river area,” said Josh G. Evers, community relations event volunteer. “I thought this event was a good adventure, had amazing scenery and we were able to help the environment.”
Performing volunteer opportunities gives Marines a chance to venture out of the city and into the more rural countryside of Japan.
“I think we helped out a lot and it was a good experience,” said Evers. “I like helping people out by cleaning up and I like knowing that I did something better for the environment and the Japanese community.”
Although not much trash was found, servicemembers picked up every bit that could be seen and reached.
“I am very happy with the way today went because if the volunteers are happy, I am happy,” said Ivanoff.
With the cleanup done, Marines enjoyed a barbecue while talking about the day's events and playing games.
“These events show that Americans try to be helpful to the Japanese and the community we share,” said Evers.
The next volunteer event the Marine Lounge plans to host is a visit to an orphanage in mid-Dec.