MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- In a humble voice a Sailor, who has helped more than 60 service members on Station regarding the important issue of drug and/or alcohol abuse, says, "You can't help people with alcohol problems unless you've been down that road before. I have and I want to help."
Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Cooke, storekeeper with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, has been a substance abuse counseling officer for over a year here at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni.
"Being a SACO is a reward in itself," said the benevolent Cooke who has volunteered to be the SACO as a collateral duty.
Cooke was one of seven counselors that received a certificate of appreciation from the Substance Abuse Counseling Center this month. It is the first time awards for SACOs have been given out here at the Station, said Dr. Vicki Braun, supervisor for the Substance Abuse Counseling Center.
"The recognition felt good. I feel a level of importance for being noticed," said Cooke.
As a SACO, Cooke brings awareness to the service members he sees. "I tell them the dos and don'ts of drinking responsibly and underage drinking, which is a serious problem here."
Besides liking to volunteer, he likes to interact and get involved with the community. "One personal gratitude I get is when people know who I am and know what I do," said the proud Cooke.
The people that he helps also feel the same level of gratitude. "They feel good knowing they have someone to talk to. I do my best in trying to help them with providing words of encouragement and guidance."
"Cooke, as a SACO, played a vital role within the squadron. He has a good ability to communicate with other people. He's a great asset to the squadron," said Gunnery Sgt. John E. Idland, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, squadron gunnery sergeant.
"I see abusive patterns on the Station among Sailors and Marines regarding alcohol use. Whatever problems they have, I'm here to tackle those problems," Cooke said.
According to Cooke, the problems regarding the issue of alcohol abuse are from the service members that already have a history with being counseled by the recognized SACO.
"The high majority of people that have gotten in trouble have gotten in trouble here before. You would think they would have learned their lesson," said Cooke.
If you or someone use is having any type of substance abuse problems contact your SACO.
"There's an open door policy in a user friendly attitude and atmosphere. We SACO are very approachable," said Cooke with a smile.