MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Whether a service member is 32 years old or 18, concerns or questions pertaining to marriage may arise. To help relieve some of these anxieties a Pre-Marriage Seminar was held Jan. 29 at the Station Chapel.
Although the seminar is a requirement of the Station command for any service members who decide to get married, Lt. j.g. Steve Coates, Station chaplain, said the daylong course also provides couples with information on legal aspects, family budgets, medical needs, housing and communication skills required in a successful marriage.
"At the beginning of the seminar I asked the couples who, in marriage terms, they look up to. The entire group named off individuals who were still together. I hope couples leave this seminar knowing what it takes to make that possible," said Coates.
With the seminar containing only a small portion of possible marriage values and expectations, Coates stated the day is mostly concentrated on what benefits couples are entitled to as well as living a financially secure life.
"Throughout the day we have guest speakers briefing the couples on what exactly to expect once they get married and once the brief is over the speaker is there to answer any further questions the couples may have," Coates said.
According to Sgt. Jay Wyatt, Marine Air Logistics Squadron 12 aircraft mechanic, the seminar was very informative.
"There was a lot of information regarding benefits I had no idea I was permitted to have. But another aspect of the course I really liked was that it gave my future spouse a glimpse of how the military works for married couples," he said.
The seminar also provided couples that are marrying cross-culturally an opportunity to receive more in depth classes regarding their situations.
"As part of the afternoon class we also offer a Hello USA! class, which is taught in both Japanese and English," said Coates.
At the end of the day the couples receive a certificate for their completion of the course, but Coates hopes they leave with much more than a piece of paper.
"I just hope the couples know marriage is an institution worth keeping and working on," he said.
For more information about upcoming Pre-Marriage Seminars contact the Station Chapel at 253-5218.