MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 225, better known as the “Vikings,” arrived aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, in support of the Unit Deployment Program, March 11, 2015.
The squadron’s mission is to support regional combatant commanders with operational plans or strategic goals utilizing their capacities.
“Maintaining and improving our proficiencies are some of the goals the squadron has set for itself for its time in Japan,” said Master Sgt. Claude Neal, the maintenance chief with VMFA(AW)-225. “Being able to travel to Japan and take part in training evolutions provides the squadron the opportunity to test their skills in austere environments”
Stationed at MCAS Miramar, Cali., VMFA(AW)-225 arrived bringing with them approximately 150 Marines and approximately 10 F/A-18D Hornet jets.
“For a majority of the Marines, this is their first time visiting Japan,” said Cpl. Jessica Bradford, maintenance admin clerk with VMFA(AW)-225. “One of the things we encourage is for the Marines to travel while in Japan since it’s not always you get a chance to travel here.”
Bradford added that she looks forward in assisting Marine Aircraft Group 12 in the coming exercises as she and her Marines look forward on improving their skills in their Military Occupational Specialties.