MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The sergeant major of the Marine Corps visited the Station Jan. 8 and 9 sharing with Station service members the pride felt by the leadership at Headquarters Marine Corps for the great job they are doing at setting an example for all services.
During his short stay here, Sgt. Maj. John L. Estrada traveled around to different units speaking directly to the Marines. Along with seven top sergeants major, he also conducted a professional military education session with staff noncommissioned officers on subjects ranging from Operation Iraqi Freedom I and II to Marine Corps Community Services.
Estrada shared what he expects from his Marines as leaders.
"A good leader is enthusiastic, displays initiative, shows good judgment and sets the example," said Estrada. "A good leader strengthens their Marines and must be approachable."
Estrada said he is sometimes asked to compare Marines in today's Corps to those of past generations. "They are very intelligent. They grasp things quickly. They are just as tough, just as good -- maybe even better."
Sgt. Maj. William Kinney, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, briefed the service members on the Marine Corps role, mission and experiences during OIF. Kinney also explained the role of Marines in OIF II.
"We will be going in to give the Army a break," said Kinney. "But, this time we have a different mission. We will go in and befriend the community because that is who we are as Marines. We are professionals, and that is how we will carry ourselves. The Iraqis respect the Marines, we treated them with dignity."
Estrada also shared the same sentiment, but said all Marines were doing an excellent job supporting the Marine Corps mission, whether or not they participated in OIF.
"For those Marines that did not get the chance to go to Iraq last time, this is a good chance to go. However, for those that don't go this time either, that does not mean you are behind everyone else because you have not seen combat. The Marine Corps has you right where they need you, accomplishing the Marine Corps mission," said Estrada.
The sergeants major also discussed quality of life, education and Marine Corps Community Services issues.
While visiting the Station, Estrada visited Marine Aircraft Group 12, Combat Service Support Detachment 36, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 and Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, speaking directly to the service members.