ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE BASE TOWNSVILLE, Australia -- Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 332 and Iwakuni Marines from several supporting units recently deployed to Australia for Operation Southern Frontier 2004.
For the month-long deployment, Marines from each of the units in Iwakuni will have the opportunity to perform their military occupation specialties in yet another environment.
After approximately two weeks into the deployment, the Marines have progressed quickly in adapting to the environment in Australia, said Sgt. Maj. Nicholas Bourikas, sergeant major for the Moonlighters of 332.
"The squadron's primary mission while in Australia will be to increase the pilots' normally scheduled exercises," said Lt. Col. Sam Grove, executive officer for VMFA-332.
Cpl. Ruben Macias, Marine Aviation Group 12 embarkation clerk, said he is excited to be given the opportunity to be in Australia supporting a Marine fighter attack squadron in any logistical issues that may be encountered.
During their stay in Australia, the squadron will have a good opportunity to perform an ample amount of air-to-ground exercises.
"The reason for us coming here is because of the availability of a bombing range that we do not have in Japan," commented Grove.
"This deployment will be very good for the Marines that are a part of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12, especially for the ordnance Marines," said Lt. Col. Patrick O'Donnell, operations officer.
For the next month most of the Marines will have their hands full in preparing and viewing exercises involving rockets and bombs.
"Since pilots have different qualifications, this is a good chance to give them time in the hot seat," said Bourikas. "This way they are able to drop ordnance on actual targets and hone their skills."
"The chance to deploy to a different place and to get the chance to operate out of it as well is a great opportunity for everyone involved," said O'Donnell.