Japanese Security Guards train with OC spray

Photo By Cpl. Jonathan Beauchamp | A Japanese Security Guard with Provost Marshal’s Office, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, sprays oleoresin capsicum at a target during an OC spray response training on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Sep. 16, 2022. During the Marine-led training, JSGs navigated through an obstacle course while experiencing the effects of OC spray, also known as pepper spray. The training consists of tactics to subdue and arrest a subject and ensures law enforcement personnel understand the effects of the spray. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Beauchamp)  

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JAPAN

09.27.2022

Story by Lance Cpl. Jonathan Beauchamp 

Marine Corps Installations Pacific

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan – Okinawa's base installations are guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by Japanese Security Guards and Provost Marshal’s Office personnel. They have a variety of tools to help with base safety, one of which is oleoresin capsicum spray. OC spray response training is mandated annually while serving in a law enforcement capacity on base.

“OC spray response training is an annual requirement for members of the JSG and PMO because of its backsplash factor,” said Gunnery Sgt. Ian Graichen, a training chief with Provost Marshal’s Office, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. “A backsplash is when the spray is shot from the can and splashes back onto the user. This training ensures everyone can maintain proper security and possible apprehension regardless of contamination.”



During the training, members of the JSG were OC sprayed, also known as pepper spray. The JSGs navigated through a course consisting of tactics to subdue a subject, with the assistance of Marines with PMO. OC spray training ensures law enforcement personnel understand the effects of the spray and, if self-contamination occurs, perform effectively in uncomfortable and painful situations.



“This training was organized with Marines to help build a stronger relationship through training between the JSG and PMO personnel,” said Nakahara. “I like training with the Marines because PMO and JSG are the first line of defense for the base, and when we train together, it allows us to work as one unit.”



All law enforcement and guard personnel with proper MCIPAC certification carry this tool to help keep good order and discipline, stability, and security. PMO and JSG's mission is to provide law enforcement, investigative, and security services on base. As a result, their work helps promote policies to ensure base-wide safety for all residents and guests.



“After training, the participants left with a further understanding of the tool they can utilize during calls and a level one exposure certification for OC spray,” said Graichen. “I think this training is important because PMO and the JSG work together daily. Training like this is paramount to further our capabilities and experiences as we protect residents on the base.”

• Date Taken: 09.27.2022
• Date Posted: 09.29.2022 20:21
• Story ID: 430147
• Location: CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP