MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Every May 22 marks the celebration throughout the world in which people take a day to spend a little extra time to do something positive for the Earth.
Station Marines and Sailors performed the annual sea wall clean up in celebration of Earth Day May 14. They collectively helped pick up trash which accumulated throughout the year.
Once a year, citizens throughout the world schedule certain events to help maintain the Earth cleanliness.
This year Marines and Sailors faced an uphill battle with the amount of trash found on the sea wall.
"If trash was thrown away properly, then there would not have been as much trash accumulated on the sea wall," said Paul Hudson environmental protection specialist.
Even though the annual event took place May 14, a couple days before Earth Day, that did not stop Marines and Sailors from being good Samaritans.
"We usually do this on Earth Day but because of scheduling problems we had to do it a couple days before," said Hudson. "Cleaning up is something we do once a year, but it really should be something that we do every day of the year."
Pvt. Clarissa Rowley, food service specialist, said, "I am very happy to be here today. Cleaning up is something that helps out the environment."
In conjunction with cleaning the Earth at least one day of the year, a positive message is conveyed.
"Since we are ambassadors of the United States, it is nice to show everyone that we also care," said Rowley. "Also, when Marines see this maybe it will make them want to also help out."
For some this was the first time volunteering to clean up trash.
"This was my first time volunteering to help clean up trash for Earth Day," said Airman Karen Monroe, Navy Station fuels. "I would definitely volunteer if something like this comes up again. It's great to be doing something positive and volunteering time and making the Earth look better."