MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- A ribbon-cutting ceremony between Buildings 1191 and 1192, Aug. 1 officially opened the station's newest volleyball court.
The construction of the court by the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1 Seabees and Marines of Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 is just one of the ways the station is trying to improve the quality of life here.
"It's always a good thing for the station and its residents when we can add to the recreational opportunities available here," said Lt. j.g. Isaac Henry, Facilities Operations officer. "It was awesome to see the Seabees and Marines working together to accomplish this project as well."
The new recreational addition came at the request of Col. Dave Darrah, station commanding officer.
After a few words of thanks during the ceremony to those involved in bringing the project to life, Darrah and the Seabees took to the court and christened it with its first match-up.
"This was the first project I've ever been in charge of," said Petty Officer 2nd class Edwin Ortiz, Navy Seabees dispatcher. "We've never built a volleyball court before so it was a real challenge for all of us."
The tough task of leveling the ground and laying out the court was made possible by the collective effort of the two groups working together, according to Ortiz.
"The help we got from the 171 Marines and their equipment made the job move along a lot easier," said Ortiz. "We just put our heads together and got it done."
Ortiz said he hopes the project adds to the quality of life for the station residents who will utilize the new court.
"With all the sand it's like bringing the beach onto the station," said Ortiz. "Projects like these are aimed towards improving the athletic opportunities for service members serving overseas."
Through teamwork, the court took shape and was open for business in practically no time at all, noted Ortiz.
"Between the assistance from the Marines and the Seabees can do spirit, we were able to get this court up and running in five days," said Ortiz. "Now everyone will be able to use and enjoy it for years to come. It's a great feeling."