Securing the bag| 3rd MLG Marines with Bulk Fuel Co. assemble fuel farms

Photo By Sgt. Armando Elizalde | Pfc. Gilberto Loza-Machado pulls on a fuel hose to be attached to a meter on Jan. 28, 2019 at Central Training Area, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. Marines with 2nd Platoon, Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, assembled several fuel sites across the CTA to enhance their training and readiness within a harsh environment. The Marines set up and maintained their bulk fuel equipment during a week-long training evolution. Loza-Machado, a native of San Bernardino, California, is a bulk fuel specialist with 2nd Plt., Bulk Fuel Co., 9th ESB, 3rd MLG. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Armando Elizalde)  

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, JAPAN

02.04.2019

Story by Lance Cpl. Armando Elizalde 

3rd Marine Logistics Group

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan -- Marines with 2nd Platoon, Bulk Fuel Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group assembled fuel sites at Central Training Area, Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan.

The training ensured that the bulk fuel specialists remained proficient with their techniques, tactics and procedures. Staff Sgt. Bradley Hoffman, the platoon sergeant for 2nd Plt., Bulk Fuel Co., said the unit came out to the Central Training Area to further enhance their training and readiness events.

"This week we are working with 6.5 miles of hose reel so we can bring our simulated fuel inland to whatever resources are needed out there," said Hoffman.

During the exercise, Marines used water to simulate petroleum products from a central lake where they pulled product from a notional barge. The bulk fuel specialists quickly set up modular systems in several locations widely dispersed around the CTA.

"We like picking these austere environments to challenge the Marines," said Hoffman. "Up hills, down hills and rocky terrain, it's not something simple like back at the warehouse."

Bulk Fuel Co. trains in the field regularly to remain ready to support 3rd MLG and III Marine Expeditionary Force in expeditionary environments.

"We support the MEF and MLG however they need us as a ground support element," Hoffman said. "When the mission comes down from them, we jump on the opportunity to set up in a moment's notice."

The Marines also patrolled lines from site to site to ensure proper liquid flow with no leaks or stoppages. If a cut or hole in the line was found, the Marines rushed to stop the leak while others provided security, working around the clock to ensure that the mission was completed despite long hours and hard labor.

"They've done a really great job," Hoffman said. "They push each other, helping one other up and down the ranks, just to get the mission accomplished."

• Date Taken: 02.04.2019
• Date Posted: 02.04.2019 21:46
• Story ID: 309497
• Location: CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, JP