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Flight line fuel operations with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron receive the American Petroleum Institute Award on Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, May 2, 2016. The award –presented by Col. Robert V. Boucher, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, on behalf of the Naval Systems Supply Command- recognizes the most outstanding fuel facility in the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Nathan Wicks/Released)

Photo by Cpl. Nathan Wicks

Award fuels motivation

4 May 2016 | Cpl. Nathan Wicks Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni’s flight line fuel operations received the American Petroleum Institute Award at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan,  May 2, 2016.

The award –presented by Col. Robert V. Boucher, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, on behalf of the Naval Systems Supply Command- recognizes the most outstanding fuel facility in the Marine Corps.

Navy Lt. Christopher Norman, fuels officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, said MCAS Iwakuni’s fuel facility wasn’t always as effective as it is being recognized for today.

“Three years ago we were really struggling,” said Norman. “We were severely undermanned and did not have most of the programs we have today. I’m glad we were able to turn it around and get it back on track.”

Cpl. Ty Cerino, bulk fuels specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, said the inspectors were blown away by the air station’s fuel facility.

“We had inspectors from Headquarters Marine Corps evaluate our operation here,” said Cerino. “They said this was the best fuel farm that they had ever seen. It feels great to finally be recognized for all the hard work we’ve done.”

Norman said he is thankful for all the help and looks forward to trying to earn next year’s award as well.

“I feel privileged and honored to have everyone’s hard work recognized on an international scale,” said Norman. “The base is only getting larger and so is fuels. I’m proud of our division for winning this award and hope we can pull it off again next year.”


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