1st MAW invites Team Kadena to Iwo Jima

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt Lakisha A.Croley
  • 18 Wing/ Public Affairs
Dec. 22, 2011 --  Darkness and cool winds surrounded the flight line as U.S. Marine Corpsmen, Sailors and Airmen out of Futenma Air Station and Kadena Air Base; boarded a KC-130J to fly into Iwoto Air Field, Iwo Jima, Japan.

The tactical significance of the capture of Iwo Jima during the Pacific campaign of WWII was insurmountable; however, the price to be paid would be a high one. There were 25,851 casualties of which 6,825 succumbed.
 
The 36-day assault marked a chapter of valor and heroism that the Marine Corps have continued to show throughout the years.

The trip began with a 7.5 mile round trip hike to the top of Mount Suribachi then continued down to the invasion beaches where the young Marines, Airman and Sailors could experience the landscape and imagine what those who came before them experienced in those first moments.

It also offered them a chance to pay homage and to reflect on the sacrifices of the fallen fighters as well as give Air Force members an opportunity to share this experience with their Marine Corps brethren.

"I thought it would be a simple, but very sincere gesture of thanks to members of the 18th Wing and its tenant Groups to invite them to join us in appreciation of the incredible support they provide 1st MAW." said Lt Col James E. Quinn, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and the liaison to 18th Wing.

Lt Col Quinn also said he looks forward to future opportunities to the group of professionals he feels provide critical support to USMC operations.