Photo By Lance Cpl. Roger Annoh | U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Daniel Grimes, administrative clerk, Headquarters and...... read more read more
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Hawaii – Marines at Camp H.M. Smith gathered at the Single Marine Program facility on May 22, 2025, to witness the opening of the new MicroMart a move that reflects the Marine Corps’ growing focus on improving quality of life for service members across the force.
The opening featured a ceremonial “first swipe,” symbolizing the official launch of the self-service MicroMart, which provides 24/7 access to a variety of food and other essential items. More than just a convenience, the MicroMart is one part of a broader push under the Barracks 2030 initiative to modernize living conditions and services for Marines.
“This this is an actual execution of quality of life... not just talking about it but actually seeing it come to fruition,” said Sgt. Maj. Jorge L. Ortiz, sergeant major, Headquarters and Service Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific. “Improvements like this are a part of moving forward with the quality of life of marines.”
Alongside leadership, Marines living in the barracks shared their thoughts on the new addition, noting its potential to improve daily routines, especially during off-hours when other facilities may be closed.
“Ultimately it just gives us the best remote access to food and resources,” said Lance Cpl. Mitchell Marfell, administrative specialists, HQSVCBN, MARFORPAC.
While small in size, the MicroMart represents a larger shift in how the Marine Corps is approaching barracks life and quality of life support. In addition to the store, upcoming renovations and expanded food options are expected to continue transforming Camp Smith into a model for barracks modernization.
The event also highlighted a shift in tone from Marine Corps leadership. In recent statements, the Commandant of the Marine Corps and the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps have emphasized the importance of taking care of Marines outside of training and operations.
“Leadership cares, we care about the Marines and the health and the welfare, in this case the food options that were not available at Camp Smith that now exist in the new MicroMart are available to the young servicemen and women that live in the barracks that didn't have a lot of other options before this,” said Col. Mark F. Schaefer, commanding officer, HQSVCBN, MARFORPAC.
Although Marine Corps Community Services supported the launch, the event maintained a focus on the Marine Corps-led effort to ensure the everyday readiness, morale, and well-being of its Marines. “Now it encourages engagement not only for the Marines that live in the barracks but the Sailors too...it gives us more incentive get out of our rooms,” stated Marfell.
As the Barracks 2030 initiative continues to roll out across installations, events like the Camp Smith MicroMart opening offer a look into how localized improvements can reflect a Corps wide culture shift that places renewed emphasis on taking care of Marines at every level.
| Date Taken: | 06.02.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.03.2025 19:55 |
| Story ID: | 499470 |
| Location: | CAMP H.M. SMITH, HAWAII, US |
| Web Views: | 661 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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