MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- In a departure from previous years' practices, and in recognition of the importance of the New Year holiday to our local host-nation communities, the commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni, in consultation with Iwakuni City and our partnering military commands, has directed that only the absolute minimum level of mission-essential flight activity will be permitted aboard the air station from 1-3 January. This applies to all military aircraft, but does not apply to commercial aviation flights, which, given their importance to the broader community, will operate as scheduled throughout this period. We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our host-nation communities, as all flights conducted by the air station are critical to maintaining the high level of military readiness that guarantees our ability to fulfill our defense obligations under the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security.