MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 4 from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, S.C., arrived here Jan. 15 as part of the Unit Deployment Program.
The Seahawks, led by Lt. Col. Frank S. Arnold, consist of approximately 150 Marines and sailors and five mission-capable EA-6B Prowler aircraft. They replaced Naval Electronic Attack Squadron 130, who returned home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash., Sept. 28 after successfully completing a three-month deployment here.
“Our primary mission while on station will be to provide electronic warfare support for Marine Aircraft Group 12 and 1st Marine Aircraft Wing,” said 1st Lt. Adnan A. Mousavizadegan, VMAQ-4 assistant administrative officer.
During their stay here, the Seahawks will perform various training exercises, including air-to-air and air-to-ground training, which will be conducted while participating in exercises Foal Eagle and Cobra Gold ‘07.
“The best thing about being deployed overseas is that it allows us to build our experience level dealing with foreign countries and flying in different places,” said Mousavizadegan. “It also gives Marines an opportunity to learn about our host nation.”
The last time Seahawks arrived on station was over three years ago, making this deployment the first time in Japan for many of the Marines.
“The Japanese people are real polite and I’m looking forward to experiencing their culture,” said Cpl. Justin T. Dubree, VMAQ-4 personnel clerk and Oscoda, Mich. native.
While their main focus is to support the station during their deployment here, the Seahawks plan to enjoy their stay overseas.
“I really look forward to going to Tokyo and Hiroshima to do the whole tourist thing and see all that Japan has to offer,” said Dubree.