MWSS-171, heavy equipment: 1; Dirt: 0

Photo By Cpl. Nicholas Rhoades | A Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 Marine uses a John Deere 850J Medium Crawler Tractor to level the landscape at the old location of the golf course here April 18, 2012. Marines use these heavy equipment vehicles to complete different projects for Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, including the lift, level, removal or destruction of certain landscapes.  

IWAKUNI, YAMAGUCHI, JAPAN

04.18.2012

Story by Pfc. Nicholas Rhoades 

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni

IWAKUNI, Japan - Heavy equipment operators from Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 got their hands and equipment dirty on the recently closed golf course here April 18, 2012.

MWSS-171 heavy equipment operators conducted training which allowed them a rare opportunity for removal, lifting and leveling of materials.

“This [heavy equipment] training is important because it keeps the Marines sharp,” said Staff Sgt. Jose R Camberos, MWSS-171 heavy equipment operations chief.

The opportunity for this type of training doesn’t happen very often for MWSS-171. This project allows operators to keep up with other heavy equipment operating units which have the capabilities for this training.

This training can be used in combat environments, which makes this an essential part of these Marines’ skill sets.

“While in combat, we can use this training to clear out areas much faster than by hand, creating openings where insurgency is occurring, by pushing down or clearing out walls,” said Camberos.

Heavy equipment operators play a vital role in combat scenarios. They also help rebuild and support the creation of runways, which allows for forward air support. Cpl. Kyle C. Clark, MWSS- 171 engineer equipment operator, explains usually while in combat-deployed locations, MWSS-171’s main role is to lift and level terrain.
Although training may not occur on a regular basis, these
Marines continue to refine their skills through station projects and exercises.

“Most of the projects we have here are loading and unloading of vehicles, so anytime we can get dirt work it is a very valuable opportunity for these Marines,” said Clark. “The only time we have a slight chance of performing this training is during deployments."

The golf course could be used as extra parking for the upcoming Friendship Day, slated for May 5.

“Our mission should be accomplished by the end of the month and the field here should be ready for use by the base for Friendship Day,” said Camberos.

Upon completion of the golf course transformation the heavy equipment operators of MWSS-171 plan to take their skills to Tinian for Exercise Geiger Fury.

• Date Taken: 04.18.2012
• Date Posted: 04.25.2012 02:45
• Story ID: 87286
• Location: IWAKUNI, YAMAGUCHI, JP