CAMP FOSTER, Japan - Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force received training from Marines on logistics capabilities June 25 at Camp Foster.
The Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 4 presented instruction and provided hands-on training to the JGSDF members throughout a two-day training course. The purpose of this training was to give the JGSDF members basic knowledge of the 3rd Marine Logistics Group’s tactics and techniques.
“We want to give the JGSDF members a rundown of our logistics capabilities,” said 1st Lt. David K. Baker, a platoon commander with CLB-4, 3rd MLG, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “They are very curious about what we do here, and through this training, they can walk away with an understanding of how Marine Corps logistics operate.”
Throughout the morning, the Marines trained the JGSDF members on the capabilities of the RT240 rough terrain container handler and the Humvee.
“Today, we showed the JGSDF members how the RTCH operates by moving 20- and 40-foot containers to the back of a logistics vehicle systems replacement,” said Cpl. Dugan L. Hoffmann, a heavy-equipment operator with CLB-4, 3rd MLG, III MEF. “It’s good for the JGSDF members to understand how our logistics work because it gives them a new perspective.”
In addition to the RTCH demonstration, the JGSDF members also operated the Humvee and eventually conducted limited convoy operations.
The JGSDF members spent the day expanding their understanding of Marine Corps logistics in order to apply it to their systems, according to Lt. Col. Koji Hirata, a planning officer with the Ground Staff Office, JGSDF.
“The Marines are very skilled at what they do, and this is an excellent opportunity for us to learn some of those skills from them,” said Hirata. “Today, we get to see firsthand the way the Marines train and function. We hope to use their knowledge in order to apply them to our techniques.”
The training presented the JGSDF members and Marines a new perspective on how logistics operate, according to Hoffmann.
“Training, such as this, is good for everyone involved,” said Hoffmann “It allows both the Marines and the JGSDF members to broaden their horizon on logistics operations.”