U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Frederico Mendizabal, the former commanding officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS) relinquishes command to Lt. Col. Christopher Merrick, the commanding officer of H&HS during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 4, 2026. The change of command ceremony is a Marine Corps tradition which honors the outgoing commanding officer’s effort and dedication while also recognizing the oncoming commanding officer’s commitment to the unit. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Gage Collins)
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — While aircraft move in and out of the airfield every day, another mission is constantly happening behind the scenes. Before a jet aligns with the runway or a flight begins its descent, air traffic controllers are already working to connect pilots, units, and agencies across the installation to keep operations safe and controlled.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, JAPAN – Sweat drips slowly from your eyebrows peppering your chin as the sun beats down. The sounds of birds and conversations start to fade in the distance as you take a slow inhale, steady exhale. The scent of gun powder and hot asphalt fill your lungs. Adrenaline slowly builds in anticipation as the start of the long-awaited competition nears. Who will bring home the trophy, the bragging rights, and the...
