The visit provided an opportunity for the Corps’ highest-ranking leaders to interact with Marines and sailors, impart guidance and gain insight into the day-to-day lives and concerns of personnel and their families.

“The visit by the commandant and sergeant major of the Marine Corps highlights the importance of III MEF as a force-in-readiness in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck, commanding general of III Marine Expeditionary Force and commander of Marine Corps Bases Japan. “The event provides a unique opportunity for the Marines and sailors stationed on Okinawa to hear first-hand the commandant’s intent and the strategic vision for our Corps’ future. Additionally, it enabled III MEF personnel to voice their ideas, questions and concerns to the highest levels of our Corps’ leadership.”

Amos and Barrett toured Marine Corps camps on Okinawa during their stay, taking time at each camp to address Marines in packed gymnasiums, hangars and dining facilities.

During his address, the commandant highlighted the efforts of Marines and sailors from III MEF in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief response to mainland Japan’s March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami, known as Operation Tomodachi.

“What all of you did up in mainland Japan is evidence of what the Corps does not only for our nation, but for other nations as well,” said Amos. “The entire world was watching, and the Government of Japan, along with the citizens of Sendai, will never forget what you have done.”

Operation Tomodachi demonstrated the importance of the Marine Corps’ forward presence in Japan.

“We respond to today’s crisis, with today’s force, today,” said Amos.

After each brief, the commandant and sergeant major opened the floor, fielding questions from Marines and sailors.

Questions asked ranged from pre-deployment training for corpsmen to the logistics and new goals of the body composition program.

The commandant discussed Marines’ use of revolutionary technology and critical thinking to overcome energy challenges.

“In Afghanistan, Marines are already extremely innovative in adapting to energy issues,” said Amos. “I am aiming for the Marine Corps to lead the pack and set the pace among the other branches in going green, while continuously accomplishing the mission.”

Marines gathered around the sergeant major as he imparted infectious motivation and voiced his praises and expectations.

“I’m truly humbled to be visiting with you all,” said Barrett. “I’ve been asked hundreds of times by hundreds of people what it is about the Marine Corps, and I’m constantly passing the message about the selfless and fearless Marines we have in the fight. I consider it an honor to be serving in this capacity for all of you.”

The appearance marked a special moment for Marines who had never had the opportunity to meet or speak with the commandant and sergeant major.

“The fact that they both made the effort to come out and hear our questions and concerns speak volumes,” said Lance Cpl. Courtney Rushin, a mail clerk with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. “It shows they care to learn about issues on our level and keep us informed about what’s going on at a strategic level.”

The visit also resonated with older Marines, many of whom said they understood the positive impact of their Marines meeting the commandant in person.

“It is great that the commandant can get out and talk to his Marines and sailors. This allows him an opportunity to demonstrate leadership at the highest level,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Vincent Smith, the equal opportunity advisor for G-7, III MEF. “Coming here to Okinawa, he can tell his Marines and sailors firsthand what our mission is as a Corps and how he intends to get it done, while at the same time taking care of the welfare of those who serve under his charge.”