General explains vision, intent

Photo By Sgt. Tyler Vernaza | Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr., commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force and commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan, brought Marines and sailors in a school circle during a visit to Camp Hansen May 13 where he spoke then opened the floor for any questions or concerns. Glueck visited the camp to personally relay his vision, expectations and guidance for III MEF and MCBJ.  

OKINAWA, JAPAN

05.19.2011

Story by Lance Cpl. Tyler Vernaza 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

OKINAWA, Japan - Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck Jr., commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force and commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan, visited Camp Hansen May 13 to praise III MEF and MCBJ Marines and sailors for their efforts during the recent Operation Tomodachi and to discuss the way ahead for III MEF.

Glueck also spoke with Marines and sailors at several camps aboard Okinawa earlier this month. This was Glueck’s first opportunity to speak with Marines and sailors in person since taking command in early January.

Glueck spoke about the earthquake and tsunami that struck the island of Honshu, March 11. He identified III MEF Marines and sailors as a force in readiness – the first to respond – providing aid during the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts of Operation Tomodachi.

Operational, personal and family readiness were key factors in ensuring III MEF’s quick response to those affected by Japan’s “complex crisis,” he added.

Glueck said III MEF is the tip of the Marine Corps’ spear, and one of the best, most prepared expeditionary forces in the Corps.
This corresponds with his expectations for III MEF and MCBJ as outlined in the III MEF and MCBJ Commanding General’s Guidance published shortly after he took command.

“We will be ready today for today’s crisis. So our job is to be ready today for the things that will occur today and in the near future,” he said in his guidance.

The general explained what Marines and sailors must do to ensure their readiness for future III MEF operations and for successful military careers.

“Number one is to lead from the front,” said Glueck. “We should be influencing each other positively, setting a good example.”

Marines and sailors must “continue to train hard, to hone their military occupational specialty skills in order to be both technically and tactically proficient. Your teammates depend on you,” he added.

The relationship the U.S. military here has with Japan as the host nation is as important as the Navy and Marine Corps team, he said. A key component of that relationship is being good neighbors and good ambassadors, which includes the community involvement of individual Marines and sailors, he said.

“It is important to be good neighbors and ambassadors off duty. While on duty, it is important we conduct operations and activities in such a manner as to strengthen our alliance,” said Glueck.

Glueck also stressed force protection and safety. One of the missions of III MEF and MCBJ is to be combat ready at all times – safety only enhances readiness, he said.

“Our most valuable assets are the individual sailor and Marine. Protect each other,” he added.

“Be proactive; lead from the front, and seize the initiative,” were Glueck’s final words for III MEF and MCBJ troops.

• Date Taken: 05.19.2011
• Date Posted: 05.19.2011 01:39
• Story ID: 70639
• Location: OKINAWA, JP