MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The Single Marine Program improves the quality of life for single and unaccompanied service members by providing a variety of services that focus on their individual needs.
"We give them an alternative to sitting in the barracks," said Jay Stovall, SMP coordinator.
The SMP operates out of the Hornet's Nest, which is located on the station's Northside. Inside, service members will find a bowling alley, a full gym with saunas, pool tables, foosball and air-hockey tables, board games, and televisions with video game systems, all free of charge.
The SMP also gives service members the opportunity to get out and see locations in Japan, such as Hiroshima and Tokyo, noted Stovall. Although off-base tours have a fee, they are at minimum cost to service members.
For planning individual trips, there is a gear issue point for tents, sleeping bags, fishing poles, lanterns, coolers and charcoal grills.
The Hornet's Nest has six computers with Internet access for e-mail, web browsing or to play one of the many CD-ROM games that are available, added Stovall. Additionally, the SMP now has three game
platform computers.
Marines tired of the chow hall can also chow down at the monthly free pizza night. At the pizza night, a variety of games and contests are held, with winners receiving prizes such as gift certificates.
If service members miss the pizza, they can enjoy one of the free barbecues that regularly take place outside the Hornet's Nest. While service members wait for their burgers to cook, they can challenge each other on the basketball court in front of the building.
The SMP even offers services to Marines on deployment. The programs offer relaxation, international exchange and sightseeing.
"While in Australia, Thailand or Korea, Marines can participate in a variety of trips," said Stovall, "from visiting ancient ruins to shopping.".
All of these programs add up to a way for Marines to get more out of their tour in Japan.
"It's open to everyone, all the Marines," said Lance Cpl. Theodore Miller, Marine Aircraft Group 12 aviation operations clerk. "You come here to meet new people, not just the people in your unit."
The SMP and Hornet's Nest serve the military in a stress-free, rank-free environment, and do it with the intent to improve their quality of life.
The Hornet's Nest is open seven days a week. For more information call 253-3585.