MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The newest Chaser Course class graduated Aug. 8 into a realm that few may have expected to go when they first joined the Marine Corps - escorting prisoners.
All service members may eventually have to serve as a chaser, regardless of their Military Occupational Specialty. Chasers are responsible for escorting prisoners to various appointments, and the Chaser Course, taught aboard station the second Thursday of every month at the Provost Marshal's Office, gives Marines and Sailors the skills to do the job.
"The chaser program helps us fulfill our mission," said Gunnery Sgt. Marion Perry, PMO Corrections supervisor. "Without chasers, it would be very difficult for us to get the prisoners to all of their appointments."
Those appointments include trips to medical, the barbershop, chow, and legal.
"The chasers are a valuable augmentation to the correctional specialists," said Sgt. Angel Luciano, Detention Facility noncommissioned officer-in-charge. "And because we count on them to augment us, it is vital that they are properly trained before taking custody of prisoners."
The proper training comes in the form of the Chaser Course, where Marines learn a variety of skills related to prisoner transportation.
"Practical application, such as how to properly shackle a prisoner is important," said Luciano. "But the most important thing is that the chasers display an aura of confidence and professionalism. Many students are flat out intimidated when they first show up to the Chaser Course, but we instill the confidence in them through proper training. When a student graduates this course, I know they have what it takes to do the job."
Many students may have been a little apprehensive at the beginning of the course, but hands on instruction gave them the confidence they needed.
"I've never worked in the corrections field before," said Cpl. Ronyeah Melendez, Chaser Course graduate. "Like most Marines I am confident in my MOS and as a person, but to be honest, before the class I had some doubts about transporting prisoners. After graduating from the class though, I know I could most definitely handle the job."
According to Luciano, without the course there couldn't be a chaser program.
"It would be dangerous for both the chasers and the prisoner if the chasers didn't receive the proper training beforehand," said Luciano. "All chaser students must demonstrate an ability to properly shackle an individual, know the proper procedures and regulations for escorting prisoners, and pass a written examination before they can graduate the Chaser Course."
According to Luciano, one of the most difficult situations chasers encounter arises when a chaser knows a prisoner.
"This is a common occurrence," said Luciano, "especially on a small installation like Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. The main thing to keep in mind is that we treat all prisoners the same, regardless of previous rank. Even though the situation may be awkward, the chasers are taught to be fair and impartial to all prisoners, so whether a chaser knew a prisoner beforehand shouldn't matter if the chaser applies what he was taught in the class."
Although it may seem easy to lead someone around and ensure they get where they need to go, the newest chaser class graduates know there is more to being a chaser than some people may realize.
"You have do this job in a professional manner every single second and treat every prisoner with dignity," said Lance Cpl. Terrence Olson, Chaser Course graduate. "And always, always be aware of your surroundings."