Photo By Cpl. Jovane Holland | Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, commanding general of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D....... read more read more
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OKINAWA, Japan - After almost two years of renovations, the Camp Foster Mess Hall officially reopened its doors March 29.
Renovations began in June 2009, and all mess hall operations were moved to the vacated Globe and Anchor Club, according to Master Sgt. Charles James, mess hall manager with Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler.
During construction, the building received a complete makeover.
“The entire building was renovated to include new air flow, fire suppression and boiler systems, office spaces, kitchen, ceilings, walls, doors and 99 percent new equipment,” said James. “The exterior was also repainted and given a face-lift.”
The renovations cost approximately $4.5 million and required 87,800 hours of labor.
The renovations will improve quality of life and morale for those who eat at the new mess hall due to the updated and comfortable environment, said James.
“Morale is directly tied to mission accomplishment,” said James. “I think with the environment the new facility has set up for the Marines and sailors, the mission will continue to be accomplished.”
Col. Nicholas Nanna, commanding officer of H&S Bn., Camp Butler, and Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, commanding general of Camp Butler and deputy commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan, were present for the grand opening to cut the ribbon, tour the new facility and interact with mess hall patrons.
“I’m very impressed with the renovations,” said Talleri. “This facility will be a great place for Marines to come together to eat, converse and fuel themselves to complete the mission.”
Lance Cpl. Jenna Thomas, an electrician with Marine Wing Support Group 17, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, the first Marine to be served at the new mess hall, said the end product of the renovations was well worth the wait.
“When I arrived on-island, the mess hall was already closed for renovations, so I’m not sure how it looked before, but I really like the setup,” said Thomas. “The food and service was great. I hope everyone who had any part in the renovations knows they are appreciated.”
James said he hopes the new facility with its new services will be an incentive for Marines to eat here.
“With the new facility, the patronage has gone up tremendously, which means we get more money to provide services to Marines. If Marines on meal cards consistently eat here, the quality and quantity of food will continue to increase,” said James. “Some of the improvements we’ve already implemented are submarine toasting, meat and vegetable grilling, a walk-up window and a hand-made pizza and pasta bar.”
Marines are encouraged to submit ideas, questions or concerns for improvements to the Camp Foster Mess Hall at 645-7158.
“Don’t hesitate to bring any ideas to management’s attention,” said James. “If it’s something popular and cost effective, we’ll be more than willing to add it to our growing list of existing services.”
| Date Taken: | 03.29.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 04.07.2011 02:40 |
| Story ID: | 68389 |
| Location: | CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 433 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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