MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s Thrift Store opened its doors to shoppers over the weekend following a complete restoration project.
Renovations and an expansion of the store began approximately two months ago and culminated in a ribbon cutting ceremony here Saturday afternoon.
“This is really a big deal,” said Col. Michael A. O’Halloran, station commanding officer, during the store’s official ribbon cutting. “All the money that comes in here, it is just pure – it’s turned right back around … it goes right back to the community. About $50,000 last year went right back out into the community. As a private organization, the Thrift Store does so much.”
According to Gwen Peterson, the Thrift Store’s manager, “customers are in for an enjoyable experience as they shop in the clean, organized, well-lit, stateof- the-art sales floor.”
The store, which relies on donations and a dedicated volunteer staff to operate effectively, offers many bargains for the local community.
“The Thrift Store is not just a Thrift Store; it’s a lot more than that,” said Candice O’Halloran, who assisted in the coordination of the project.
Mrs. O’Halloran said the store assists newcomers, military families in distress and community programs with funds generated from store sales.
“We have a free uniform area for the military,” Mrs. O’Halloran said.
The store includes a special corner offering military clothing and memorabilia — items completely free for active duty service members.
The facility also incorporates a newly paved driveway exclusively for donation drop-offs. A specific gated area is designated for the donations.
The Thrift Store is open for shoppers on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and resumes business from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Thrift Store is located in Building 1117, next to Yujo Hall and a newly erected playground, commonly referred to as Happy Park.
“The park is another success, and it’s all flowing nicely,” Mrs. O’Halloran added.
“I think it’s great for the community.”
For more information about the Thrift Store, donation criteria, volunteer opportunities or assistance, call 253-4711.