MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The Commandant and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps addressed Marines and sailors during a command visit at the Sakura Theater here, Friday.
General James T. Conway visited the theater to say a few words, answer questions from the audience and introduce himself as the Commandant of the Marine Corps. During Conway’s speech, he focused on Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the role station personnel play in the Pacific Theater.
“There is a law out there that says the United States Marine Corps will be the nation’s shock troops,” exclaimed Conway. “If there is another major conflict, we need to be ready to respond and right now we are the best counter-insurgency force in the world.”
When Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps John L. Estrada took the microphone, he thanked the Marines and sailors for their dedication and the magnificent job they have been doing – on and off the battle field.
“I often refer to the Marines who support as the unsung heroes,” exclaimed Estrada. “If it is not for your support, fighter squadrons would not be able to do what they do. You are contributing to the fight and to the success of the Marine Corps.”
Conway and Estrada answered service member’s questions ranging from new physical training gear and Operation Iraqi Freedom, to the station’s internet service.
“I think they are looking at the issues on the table and are making it better for Marines today,” said Sgt. Carl B. Fletcher, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron administration chief. “For example, the new PT gear is an important issue, because the current gear has been around since 1950.”
“We got some really good feedback from the questions he was answering,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Beal, Installation Personnel Administration Center staff non-commissioned officer-in-charge and native of Ontario, Calif. “We knew he was going to look out for us and our welfare, especially here in Iwakuni. He was willing to listen and take those notes back to Headquarters Marines Corps.”
At the end of the visit it was time for a motivating surprise. Conway reenlisted Beal right on the spot.
“I felt like a private first class getting promoted, it was an awesome experience. Even as a master gunnery sergeant with 26 years in the Marine Corps, my heart was beating,” said Beal, whose face was full of smiles after the reenlistment.
According to Beal, the recent visit was a success as it gave service members a rare chance to meet the corps’ top devil dog.
“Everyone was listening to everything he (Conway) said,” remarked Beal. “He was only here for a brief time, but a lot of Marines are going to remember it and what he came to say.”