MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- In light of current world events, Station officials are advising Marines, Sailors and their familiy members to stay alert and recallable while on liberty and leave.
"If a Marine is on leave or liberty in the event of an onset of a conflict, the first thing he should do is get himself and others back on base as soon as possible," said Lt. Col. Thomas Abel, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron commanding officer.
While getting on base Marines should expect a delay due to congestion at the gate and heightened force protection levels, but should not worry about going straight to work, according to Abel.
"We will call you as soon as we need you," he added. "Marines need to know their individual section's emergency procedures, as they may institute different plans amongst different shops."
In the post-emergency time, shops may find themselves undermanned due to the heightened FP level.
"Junior Marines need to be prepared to go to the Auxiliary Security Force, and noncommissioned officers need to be prepared to work with less," said Abel.
If a Marine is on leave during an outbreak of conflict, they need to take certain necessary precautions such as ensuring their recall number is correct, said Abel.
Before a Marine leaves the Station to any distant location they need to ensure that have the necessary documents approved to go out of bounds.
"A Station directive states that Marines going over 25 kilometers need to have a force protection chit approved before leaving," said Sgt. Maj. Roland Daniel, H & HS sergeant major.
Although Marines need to be on constant alert while on leave and liberty, they should not let that effect the opportunities Japan has to offer.
"Marines need to enjoy their tour in Japan, but remain vigilant as well," said Abel.