MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- In preparation for Exercise Foal Eagle scheduled in March, Marines from Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 took part in Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit Operations, here during the week of Jan. 26- Feb. 3.
Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit Operations stresses real life scenarios Marines could face in the field such as lack of potable water, the need to set up a base camp to provide shelter and transporting equipment necessary for mission accomplishment.
“The exercise is important in preparation for Korea, because before you take your gear anywhere you want to make sure it’s mission capable,” said Sgt. Sadys Corcino, chief of hygiene equipment and native of New York.
During the exercise, Americas’ Squadron will utilize several units who will work together to ensure mission readiness.
Combat engineers set up a base camp near Penny Lake, heavy equipment operators moved all the necessary equipment, hygiene equipment operators provided potable water which was brought to camp by motor transport, all within a week.
During the exercise, Marines will train to self sustain a base camp which lacks a reliable water source.
“Emergencies or natural disasters happen and if a situation was presented in which we had no potable water we want to make sure our unit is ready,” said Corcino.
“Salt water from the harbor will be purified to provide water for shower units, mess hall needs and drinking,” said Staff Sgt. Richard L. White, utilities chief.
The Halifax, Va. native adds, once the water is purified its quality matches any purified water sold in stores.
The exercise will familiarize Marines about conditions in the field and give them an idea about what to expect in Korea.
“I have been to Korea twice and this camp looks a lot like it did over there. I think the exercise will help most Marines training for Foal Eagle,” said Lance Cpl. Matthew S. Travis, basic hygiene equipment operator who is a native of Lebanon, Mo.