MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Outgoing Robert M. Casey Medical and Dental Clinic officer-in-charge Cmdr. Cesar Odvina relinquished command to Navy Capt. Moise Willis during a change of charge ceremony at the Marine Memorial Chapel here Aug. 10, 2012.
A change of charge ceremony is the official transfer of authority to the new officer-in-charge. Odvina served three years aboard station as the BHC officer-in-charge and enjoyed working with his sailors and supporting the station residents.
“I am humbled to serve the community of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni,” said Odvina. “The sailors at the BHC are like a family to me. We may be far from our relatives, but they made me feel at home. I could not ensure the BHC’s mission was accomplished without my sailors.”
The BHC family arrived in force to show their support for both Odvina and Willis in their future endeavors, whether aboard the station or beyond. Odvina is setting sail for National Capitol Region, Podesta, Md.
“I have great respect for (Willis), and I know that he will be a great asset and leader to the community and the BHC in support of our mission and taking care of our patients here,” said Odvina. “Leading the clinic and the sailors there was a tremendously fun time. I will remember that family for the rest of my life and all the great times I shared with the Marines and sailors here. I know Willis will enjoy his time here as much as I have and I wish him and his family the best of luck here.”
Willis’ mission is a vital role to the station.
“This is an honor and a longtime dream,” said Willis. “I’m prior enlisted, and I had a lot of great mentors along the way. It’s hard to put into words about how I feel today. The bottom line is taking care of others, I took that oath as a corpsman. I look forward to taking care of all of our servicemembers and family members at the clinic.”