Photo By Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe | Cpl. Charles A. Ferenchak, a military policeman, explains to Kousei Shibata, an...... read more read more
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CAMP KINSER, Japan - Marines with different Camp Kinser-based units shared their military knowledge with 327 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officer candidates here Aug. 31 as part of the Japanese Observer Exchange Program.
The Japanese Observer Exchange Program is designed to provide mutual opportunities for Marines and JGSDF members to share cultural and professional experiences with each other.
During the exchange, the JGSDF officer candidates saw a presentation outlining the fundamentals of Marine Corps leadership. Following the presentation, a static display of Marine Corps vehicles and weaponry was organized for the candidates.
“The exchange began with a presentation on different traits that characterizes Marine leadership,” said Capt. Kimberly Julka, company commander for Military Police Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Officer candidates also saw demonstrations of Marine Corps programs such as the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program and the combat fitness test.
“The exchange is always a good opportunity for Japanese and American service members to learn to communicate better,” said JGSDF Maj. Taiki Nogani, the JGSDF’s assistant III MEF liaison officer.
With the aid of a translator, officer candidates and Marines asked and answered questions about training common to both services.
“By the look on everyone’s faces, you could tell everyone was excited to learn,” said Julka.
Officer candidates also became familiar with weapon systems used by Marines, such as the M-9 service pistol, M-4 service carbine and the M-203 grenade launcher.
“These candidates may graduate and become platoon commanders and eventually train alongside Marines,” said 1st Sgt. Alvincent Mitchell, the company first sergeant for MP Company. “With the knowledge they gain today, these future leaders will know what the Marine Corps brings to the table.”
The exchange also allowed Marines participating in the event to see JGSDF personnel in a professional educational environment.
“A lot of great questions were asked during the course of the exchange,” said Lance Cpl. Jonathan Lebron, a military policeman with MP Company. “Everyone who was there (learned) something from the exchange.”
Additional events with the Japanese Officer Exchange Program are scheduled throughout the year.
“Visiting the Marines was a very educational and inspiring experience,” said Kousei Shibata, an officer candidate with the JGSDF. “I look forward to working together with the U.S. Marines in the near future.”
| Date Taken: | 09.09.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 09.08.2011 20:25 |
| Story ID: | 76696 |
| Location: | CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 200 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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