III Marine Expeditionary Force

9 Septmeber, 2020

Marine Forces – Japan has updated some safety protocols and transitioned to Health Protection Condition “Bravo” beginning Sept 10 at 0800.

*See HPCON Infographic below for a list of new safety protocols.

 

27 July, 2020

MARFOR-J’s enhanced health protection measures, combined with rigorous testing, have allowed to us adjust off-base restrictions while ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities. 

Take a look at the July 28- HPCON Measures infographic below for a list of current guidelines and restrictions.

 

20 July, 2020

Thursday, July 23, DoDEA Pacific, in partnership with AFN, will hold a Facebook Live event to respond to questions and concerns regarding the 2020-21 school year. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. JST on AFN Okinawa’s Facebook page.

 

AFN Okinawa Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Wave89/

 

17 July, 2020

Marine Corps Installations Pacific released a COVID-19 trace tacker to providing a visual map of locations to track any overlap in activities with cases of COVID-19. Updates to this tracker will continue to be put out via AtHoc messaging so please ensure you register yourself and your family.

 

*See the link below in order to access the COVID-19 tracker.  

 

11 July, 2020

In light of recent clusters of positive COVID-19 cases on Okinawa, Marine Forces Japan has implemented additional HPCON measures to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus. These measures have been put into place to protect our forces, our families, and our local communities. As a reminder, we all have a part to play in limiting the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to practice good hygiene, conduct social distancing, wear appropriate facemasks, and stay vigilant.

*See the Updated HPCON graphic below for new preventive measures in place.

 

10 July, 2020

In light of recent positive COVID-19 cases on Okinawa, Marine Forces Japan has reintroduced additional HPCON measures to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus. These measures have been implemented to protect our forces, our families, and our local communities. As a reminder, we all have a part to play in limiting the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to practice good hygiene, conduct social distancing, and wear appropriate facemasks. 

*See the Updated HPCON graphic below for new preventive measures in place.

 

07 June, 2020

Headquarters Marine Corps releases MARADMIN 383/20 providing specific guidance, procedures, and entitlements for individuals PCSing to Japan. Click on the link below to read the MARAMIN in its entirety.

MARADMIN 383/20

REINFORCING GUIDANCE FOR MARINES REGARDING TRANSPORTATION, PETS, HOUSING, AND QUARANTINE-LEVEL - RESTRICTION OF MOVEMENT (ROM) ASSOCIATED WITH PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION MOVES TO JAPAN

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2255870/reinforcing-guidance-for-marines-regarding-transportation-pets-housing-and-quar/

 

22 June, 2020

Update 1:

As we gradually start to see more service members and families PCSing, make sure to get the most up-to-date information effecting PCS moves to Okinawa during COVID-19. For anyone that will be servering as a sponsor to our newcomers, prepare yourself with the latest resources available to help you fulfill your sponsorship assignment with ease.

Sign up for the new MCCS Sponsorship Training at

www.mccsokinawa.com/relocation or call 645-2104/2106/8395/7494

 

19 June, 2020

Update 2:

MCCS facilities has resumed a majority of their regularly scheduled operations and hours with some changes for elevated hygine and social distancing. Visit the MCCS COVID response page under our partner responses on the right side of this page for a full list of updates. 

 

Update 1: 

Marine Corps Installations Pacific has released new guidelines lifting restriction on the use of Taxis on base and resuming visitors passes aboard Marine Corps Installations. Effective 1200 on June 17, 2020 Taxis will be available for use on Marine Corps installations in Okinawa and personnel can request daily visitor passes for off-base visitors.

 

15 June, 2020

Update 1:

MARFOR-J has relaxed additional restrictions in the gradual transition to HPCON B after reviewing how to best ensure the safety and well-being of our force, families, and communities. For more information see the graphic below. 

 

12 June, 2020

Update 1:

U.S. Forces Japan has directed a reduction to Health Protection Condition “Bravo” throughout Japan effective June 12. USINDOPACOM authorized III MEF commands in Hawaii to begin a transition to HPCON “Bravo” on June 10. Marine Forces-Japan will begin the transition through coordination with USFJ on June 12. Although there are no immediate changes to the HPCON measures, III MEF is regularly reevaluating the situation based on recommendations from public health professionals.

 

Our collective commitment to following established guidelines and restrictions has ensured that we have remained an effective force and minimized the impact of COVID-19 to the III MEF and MARFOR-J community. We ask everyone to continue to use good judgment, make sound decisions in your interactions, and continue to ensure we are looking out for the welfare of each other. Continue to follow our Facebook page along with our COVID-19 this webpage for updates as we release them.

 

9 June, 2020

Update 1:

Headquarters Marine Corps recently released MARADMIN 333/20 to provide some guidance on travel restrictions gradually being relaxed. Clink on the link below to read the full MARADMIN.

 

TRANSITION TO CONDITIONS-BASED PHASED APPROACH TO CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 PERSONNEL MOVEMENT AND TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS UPDATE

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2212654/transition-to-conditions-based-phased-approach-to-coronavirus-disease-2019-pers/

 

5 June, 2020

 

Update 1:

 

This week certain off-base HPCON restrictions were lifted allowing III MEF personnel to take advantage of off-base restaurant services. It is important to remember to enjoy your time off base responsibly. Certain resources that were available before the pandemic currently remain restricted under HPCON guidelines, such as taxis, daikos, public transportation, and traveling in groups. Now that we are gradually returning back to a new normal state, it is no time to let our guard down and make poor decisions that put our lives, the lives of those around us, and our careers at risk. It is imperative that you have a plan if you decide to drink alcohol. Always remember "Not 1 Drop" when you drive.

 

Some of your current options to drink responsibly are: 

 

-Having a friend with you that is a designated driver

-Using Fidelis Rides services

-Coordinating a plan to have a friend pick you up

 

*Take a look at the "Have A Plan" graphic above for some important points to remember

 

4 June, 2020

Update 1:

MCCS will continue a phased resumption of activities with the most recent updates including the following reopenings that take effect starting Friday, June 5.

 

- Non-contact adult and youth sports such as baseball, softball and volleyball are permitted on MCCS athletic fields and outdoor courts. Basketball, soccer and football are not permitted. Call your local fitness center for field and/or equipment reservations.

- Group fitness classes for groups of 10 people or less with social distancing, etc., are being scheduled to resume starting next week.

- CREDO Marriage Retreats for groups of 10 people or less will resume.

- New Parent Support Program home visits will resume.

- Transition Assistance in-person counseling sessions for individual, transitioning Marines will resume.

- Substance Abuse Counseling Center in-person counseling for groups of 10 people or less will resume.

- SAPR Victim Advocate in-classroom training for groups of 10 people or less will resume.

- Military Classification/Certification in-classroom testing for groups of 10 people or less will continue.

- Tsunami Scuba equipment rentals, dive classes and charters for groups of 10 people or less will resume.

- Foster Framing and Fine Arts and The Custom Shop will reopen.

- Taiyo Golf Club custom-club fittings and large-group shotgun starts will resume.

- MCCS Special Events equipment rentals such as water slides will resume (except for bounce houses).

- Officer, SNCO, NCO and Enlisted Lounges will reopen with social distancing and occupancy limits; alcohol sales end at 9 p.m. with closures at 10 p.m.

- Gaming Rooms at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster and at Taiyo Steakhouse have reopened, with other facilities to reopen shortly.

 

3 June, 2020

Update 1:

Effective 4 June at 0800, MARFOR-J has relaxed additional restrictions after a thorough review to ensure the safety and well-being of our force, families, and communities based on the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Updated guidelines include:

- MARFOR-J Personnel will be allowed to utilize off-base retail stores as long as they practice social distancing and wear masks.

- Personnel will be able to dine-in at off base restaurant’s outdoor seating areas.

 

For more information and list of permitted and restricted activities reference the "HPCON C Updates" graphic below.

 

1 June, 2020

Update 1:

MCCS Okinawa announced effective 03 June all authorized patrons will have access to MCCS fitness facilities. All fitness centers will resume normal, pre-COVID-19, operating hours and "active duty only" hours will no longer be in effect. All fitness center patrons are required to comply with all posted preventive measures. Visit the MCCS Okinawa- Sport & Wellness Facebook page or the updated "Facilities" tab below for more information.

 

31 May, 2020

Update 1:

For all individuals, and families, that will be executing a PCS move in the near future with their pets, visit the AMC Pet Travel Page for guidance on making sure your pets can safely travel to your next duty station.

*AMC PET TRAVEL WEBPAGE

https://www.amc.af.mil/Home/AMC-Travel-Site/AMC-Pet-Travel-Page/

 

30 May, 2020

Update 1:

Effective immediately MCCS fitness centers will no longer require face masks while using cardio machines. Face masks are still required to be worn in fitness centers as per previous guidance.

 

28 May, 2020

Update 1:

Marine Corps Installations Pacific announced chapel services will begin indoor services starting May 29. Visit your local base chapel Facebook page or the Marine Corps Installations Pacific Camp Butler Chapels official webpage for times and services offered. 

 

* Marine Corps Installations Pacific Camp Butler Chapels webpage:

https://www.mcbbutler.marines.mil/Base-Information/Chapels/

Installations	On-Base Chapel Contact	Facebook page
Camp Foster	315-645-7486	https://www.facebook.com/Camp-Foster-Chapel-155955065022041/
Camp Courtney	315-622-9350	https://www.facebook.com/CourtneyChapelOkinawa/
Camp Hansen	315-623-4619	https://www.facebook.com/CampHansenChapels/
Camp Schwab	315-625-2644
Camp Kinser	315-637-1148	https://www.facebook.com/campkinserchapel/
MCAS Futenma	315-636-6612	https://www.facebook.com/futenmachapelokinawa

 

27 May, 2020

Update 1:

The secretary of defense signed a memo to transition to a conditions-based phased approach to personnel movement and travel restrictions. While the COVID-19 pandemic still presents risk to DOD Service members, their families, and our civilian workforce, improving conditions warrant a transition in our approach to domestic and overseas personnel travel to a conditions-based, phased approach to personnel movement and travel. All DOD service members, and DOD civilian personnel and dependents of DOD service members and of DOD civilian personnel whose travel is government-funded, will stop movement, both internationally and domestically, while this memorandum is in effect, unless the conditions listed in the memo are met. Conditions to resume unrestricted travel rests on two overarching factors: 1) state and/or regional criteria based on the administration’s Opening Up America Again guidelines and 2) installation-level factors based on conditions on and surrounding DOD installations, facilities, and locations. 

*Updated Travel Restrictions - Fact Sheet

https://media.defense.gov/2020/May/26/2002305767/-1/-1/1/FACT-SHEET-FOR-TRAVEL-RESTRICTIONS.PDF

**Secretary of Defense Memo: Transition to Conditions-based Phased Approach to Coronavirus Disease 2019 Personnel Movement and Travel Restrictions 

https://media.defense.gov/2020/May/26/2002305766/-1/-1/1/TRANSITION-TO-CONDITIONS-BASED-PHASED-APPROACH-TO-%20COVID-19-PERSONNEL-MOVEMENT-AND-TRAVEL-RESTRICTIONS.PDF

 

26 May, 2020

Update 1:

MCCS Okinawa released updated guidance on some of their behavioral health resources. Take a moment to review the infographic that MCCS put together to provide some useful information. 

 

21 May, 2020

Update 1:

This morning new guidelines from III MEF, Kadena Air Base, US Army Garrison Okinawa, Navy Commander of Fleet Activities Okinawa, and MCCS went into effect. Many previous off-base restrictions were lifted and many on-base activities have reopened. We understand that everyone is eager to enjoy Okinawa and all the great amenities and restaurants, but we ask you to continue to take precautions and practicing proper social distancing and good judgement with all activities. Now is not the time to let our guard down, stay vigilant.

For any questions on III MEF HPCON or COVID-19 related guidance, send us a message at mefcovid.question@usmc.mil

 

20 May, 2020

Update 2:

MCCS will begin a phased re-opening of select activities/facilities starting on Thursday, May 21. Facilities that will reopen include staffed Fitness Centers, Bowling Centers, Aquatics Centers (for both lap and recreational swimming), Education Centers, Behavioral Health, Outdoor Recreation, Tsunami Scuba, Typhoon Motors, and Youth & Teen Centers. 

*For more information visit the facilities tab below or visit the MCCS Okinawa Facebook page

 

Update 1:

Marine Forces-Japan has lifted some restrictions after a thorough review of measures needed to ensure the safety and well-being of the force, families, and communities based on the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic in the local area.

*For all updated policies, take a look at the HPCON graphic below.

**Updated HPCON guidelines are effective 0800 21 May, 2020

 

19 May, 2020

Update 1:

With the current status of the pandemic it's important to remain fit and healthy. MCCS continues to provide support with outdoor HITT centers, unmanned gyms, and virtual training competitions. Find out more about MCCS' Magic10 run, a FREE virtual run for the first 400 SOFA members ages 12+! Complete the 10-mile course on MCAS Futenma on your own time between Friday, May 22 and Monday, June 1 and receive a finisher's medal and T-shirt. Registration opens Friday, May 22 at midnight.

For more information, visit http://mccsokinawa.com/semperfit

 

15 May, 2020

Update 1:

Headquarters Marine Corps released two new MARADMINS providing more information and resources for Marines and families PCSing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click on the link below to read the most recent permanent change of station and household goods shipment guidance.

MARADMIN 285/20: SUPPLEMENTAL GUIDANCE TO PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION ASSIGNMENTS DUE TO 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2183862/supplemental-guidance-to-permanent-change-of-station-assignments-due-to-2019-no/

MARADMIN 284/20: HEALTH SAFETY SCREENING REQUIREMENTS TO PROTECT THE FORCE/INDUSTRY DURING RELOCATION PROCESS (HOUSEHOLD GOODS MOVES)

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2183843/health-safety-screening-requirements-to-protect-the-forceindustry-during-reloca/

 

14 May, 2020

Update 1:

Marine Corps Base Camp Semdley D. Butler Distribution Management Office has provided specific guidance and resources for service members and families that are expecting to conduct a PCS move to Okinawa during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Scroll down to the "DMO / PCS resources" tab for helpful tips on planning your move.

 

13 May, 2020

Update 1:

The commander of U.S. Forces Japan, Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider, extended the Public Health Emergency (PHE) for all of Japan. This order extends the previous Japan-wide PHE declared on April 15, 2020.

The PHE will remain in effect through June 14, 2020, unless it is renewed or terminated sooner by the USFJ Commander.

 

11 May, 2020

Update 1:

With the constantly changing nature of the COVID-19 situation worldwide information is being released from countless sources with various levels of accuracy. Continue to look for information from official sources and stay aware of false information and rumors. Visit the Department of Defense COVID-19 rumors webpage for information on specific instances of incorrect information and the corrected responses.

https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Rumor-Control/

 

8 May, 2020

Update 1:

U.S. Transportation Command Defense Personal Property Program issued some specific guidance for service members and familes that are conducting moves during the ongoing pandemic.

Visit the link below for resouces and FAQs that have been published relating to moves

https://www.move.mil/customer-service

 

7 May, 2020

Update 2:

The Department of Defense released on online screening tool for individuals to assess their level of risk of COVID-19 infection. The screening tool provides a simple survey for anyone at home to follow without having to expose themselves or others around them to potential infection. Upon completion of the screening survey a list of instructions and resources will be displayed based on an individual’s risk level. 

To take the survey and complete an online COVID-19 screening, click the link below.

https://mysymptoms.mil/assessment

Update 1:

Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) announced effective immediately all exchange theaters on Okinawa will be temporarily closed until further notice.

 

6 May, 2020

Update 1:

DODEA GRADING INFORMATION FOR 2019-2020:

We recognize the challenges of providing equitable high-quality learning opportunities to all students via distance learning. Therefore, DoDEA teachers will continue normal grading of assignments and assessments in Q4. Once Q4 grades are calculated in courses where new content is taught, Q4 grades will be compared to Q3 grades for each course. Students will receive the higher of the two grades for each course on their Q4 report cards.

DoDEA teachers will continue to be flexible and provide opportunities for students to submit late work or redo assignments for credit.

See the FAQs in the attached link on details on grading, interim reports, calculation of grade point average, and report cards.

*https://www.dodea.edu/Pacific/grading-info-2019-2020.cfm

 

5 May, 2020

Update 1:

Local news outlets are reporting today as the fifth day with no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Okinawa. This is an important time to remain vigilant, continue to follow the HPCON-C+ guidelines, and keep safety in the forefront of your mind. It is also important to ensure everone is taking care of their physical and mental health. Military OneSource has put together a page of valuable resources for stress managment, family counseling, study aid, and financial assistance. 

*Click on the Military OneSource link under our partner responses on the right side of this page for a full list of resources.

 

4 May, 2020

Update 1:

DoDEA Schools:

The following decisions have been made regarding the remainder of the 2019-20 school year:

School buildings in Japan, Okinawa, and Guam will stay closed to students. Online learning and teaching will continue in all DoDEA schools across the Pacific;

School buildings in Korea are closed to students and maintaining online teaching and learning will remain the focus; however, we will keep a flexible approach that could allow any of the eight schools on the Korean peninsula to reopen before the end of the school year if conditions established jointly by the command and DoDEA are satisfied.

For more information click the link to read the full message from the DoDEA Pacific Region Director: https://www.dodea.edu/Pacific/About/DirectorsMessage.cfm

 

3 May, 2020

Update 1: 

DoDEA schools will remain on virtual learning through the end of the 2019/2020 school year.

“The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) in direct and close coordination with our senior military partners decided to continue digital teaching and learning and keep school buildings closed to students for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year in all DoDEA schools across the Pacific.

 

2 May, 2020

Update 1: 

MCCS will reopen its restaurants, satellite gyms, libraries and other activities beginning Monday, May 4. MCCS Satellite Gyms—meaning the six MCCS unstaffed facilities— will reopen on Monday, May 4 from 4:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. daily, per the guidelines below under the "Facilities" tab. Outdoor HITT Centers remain open per guidance issued April 22. MCCS main indoor fitness centers remain closed.

* Visit the Facilities tab below for more information, or visit the MCCS Okinawa Facebook page

 

1 May, 2020

Update 1: 

Effective April 13, 2020, thanks to additional funding from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), tutoring and homework help from Tutor.com for U.S. Military Families™ is now available at no cost to all U.S. military service members, DoD personnel, and their dependents who are being impacted by COVID-19 disruptions.

Tutor.com for U.S. Military Families™ (www.tutor.com/military) provides 24/7 tutoring and homework help. The service is funded by the Department of Defense and Coast Guard Mutual assistance and no cost to eligible students. At Tutor.com, students get personalized help in more than 100 subjects for grades K-12 and college students, including math, writing, reading, ELL, science, English, social sciences, history, accounting, finance, nursing, world languages, computer science, study skills, test prep and more. They also offer tutoring in Spanish for some math, science and social studies subjects for native Spanish speakers. Every tutoring session is anonymous and takes place in a secure online classroom.

More information can be found here:
 https://www.facebook.com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries/photos/a.199731043388893/3478350672193564/?type=3&theater

 

30 April, 2020

Update 1: 

It has been almost two weeks since the latest protective measures were put in place and we wanted to thank the MARFOR-J community for their support and compliance. As this pandemic continues it is too easy to become complacent. Please remain vigilant! This will become even more important as we move into Golden Week and the number of off-island visitors to Okinawa grows substantially. Continue to follow the HPCON-C+ guidelines and keep safety in the forefront of your mind. Stay healthy, we will get through this together.

 

29 April, 2020

Update 1: 

III MEF produced an infographic explaining what is needed in your contact log. 

 

28 April, 2020

Update 1: 

USFJ has tasked all active duty military personnel within Japan to maintain a daily contact tracing record. This will include information related to the following:
1. Being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters) of an individual for longer than 10 minutes;
2. Anyone with whom they had physical contact while caring for, living with, or visiting;
3. Anyone with whom they shared a health care waiting area; or,
4. Anyone having direct contact with an individual’s secretions (e.g., being coughed or sneezed on, coughing or sneezing on).

The contact tracing record is to be reviewed solely by medical teams ISO of a COVID-19 trace investigation.

Members of the civilian component, SOFA-status dependents, and Master Labor Contract, Mariners Contract, and Indirect Hire Agreement employees (LN employees) are highly encouraged to maintain a daily ‘contact tracing’ record. Failure to do so could result in denial of access to USFJ military installations.

 

27 April, 2020

Update 1: 

Although the MCCS fitness centers are still closed, the MCCS Okinawa - Sports & Wellness Facebook page page is offering two workouts a day you can do in your home, including ones from Ms. Ana Thomas, the fitness coordinator on Camp Kinser, and others from the High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) Workout of the Day.

 

26 April, 2020

Update 1: 

Marine Corps Manpower & Reserve Affairs has updated the COVID-19 SmartPack with more information concerning specific situations and an updated FAQ section.

*Click on the Manpower & Reserve Affairs SmartPack link under our partner repsones on the right side of this page for more information

25 April, 2020

Update 1: 

The Department of Defense has provided consolidated guidance on newly implemented Hardship Duty Pay - Restricion of Movement (HDP-ROM). This guidnce primarily concerns service members ordered by their command to self-monitor somewhere other than their home and if they are not on official travel orders.

*Click the link below to see the full consolidated guidance concerning HDP-ROM.

https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/23/2002287414/-1/-1/1/HARDSHIP-DUTY-PAY-RESTRICTION-OF-MOVEMENT.PDF?source=GovDelivery

 

24 April, 2020

Update 2: 

The Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS) has provided information to beware of stimulus check-related scams. Click the COVID-19 related scams tab below for more information on how you can protect yourself.

 

Update 1:

MARADMIN 260/20 was published with specific information concerning the Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger's announcment to cancel the semi-annual PFT requirement due to COVID-19 considerations.

Each section of the MARADMIN provided information as follows:

1) Cancelation of: PFT, CFT make-ups, and measurements as part of the Body Composition Program(BCP)

2) Exception to the order, and annotation for personnel records

3) CFT make-up cancelation

4) Exception to policy

5) BCP guidance

 

*Check the policy tab below for links to all updated policies and instructions

 

23 April, 2020

Update 1:

MCCS Fitness:

As part of ongoing MCIPAC efforts to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19, MCCS Okinawa’s outdoor HITT Centers will reopen Thursday, April 23, 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily, with the following guidelines:

- Access will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis only to active-duty service members stationed on MCIPAC installations.

- Face coverings will not be required.

- All equipment at our existing HITT Centers including free weights, dumbbells and kettle bells will be available for use.

- Patrons must wipe off equipment before and after use with the available disinfectant wipes.

- Max patron counts will be enforced at each location to promote social distancing

- Fitness Centers will remain closed

 

*For more information visit: the facilities tab below, the MCCS COVID-19 response wepage, linked on the right side of our page under partner responses, or visit the MCCS Okinawa - Sports & Wellness Facebook page.

 

22 April, 2020

Update 1:

Today, Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger announced the PFT requirement for this semi-annual period is cancelled in accordance with COVID-19 prevention guidelines. More details will be provided in a MARADMIN.
https://www.facebook.com/marines/photos/a.389035160193/10156751640640194/?type=3&theater

 

21 April, 2020

Update 2:

Beginning Monday, 20 April, the MCCS Okinawa Libraries will suspend public access to mitigate the community spread of COVID-19.

Libraries will continue to provide virtual reference services via phone, Facebook Messenger, and by emailing libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Facilities will also be fulfilling 3D Print requests and delivering requested books, DVDs, and other library items during our regular operating hours via curbside delivery. You can access the online catalog at https://mccs.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/butler, place items on hold, then after you receive notice your item is ready for pickup, call when you arrive at our curb.

Foster Library 098-970-7178
Futenma Library 098-970-5555 then 636-3946 at the dial tone
Courtney Library 098-954-9280
Kinser Library 098-970-5555 then 637-1039 at the dial tone
Schwab Library 098-970-5555 then 625-2518 at the dial tone
Hansen Library 098-969-7372

You can find additional contact information here:
https://www.mccsokinawa.com/librarycontact/

 

​Update 1:

The Secretary of Defense has extended the stop movement until June 30th. Additional information is in the official memo, found here: 
https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/20/2002284632/-1/-1/1/MODIFICATION-AND-REISSUANCE-OF-DOD-RESPONSE-TO-CORONAVIRUS-DISEASE-2019-TRAVEL-RESTRICTIONS.PDF

 

20 April, 2020

​Update 1:

Ensure you are prepared to Shelter-in-Place if you are asked to do so. Information to help you if that becomes necessary can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/IIIMEF/photos/a.1681038328796813/2899568483610452/?type=3&theater

 

19 April, 2020

​Update 1:

A local news outlet, Ryukyu Shimpo, reported that Okinawa Prefecture had nine new people test positive with the coronavirus on Okinawa April 18th.

 

 

 

18 April, 2020

​Update 1:

A good website for tracking COVID-19 throughout Japan can be found here: https://covid19japan.com/

 

17 April, 2020

​Update 2:

Marine Forces Japan is taking additional protective measures to mitigate the risk to our families and local communities as the cases of COVID-19 continue to grow in Okinawa and throughout Japan. These measures, some of which can be seen below, go into effect April 17. For a full list of the changes, please contact your chain of command.

-ALLOWED: Go to off-base establishments for essential services.  Essential services are medical and veterinary appointments, groceries, banking, bill payment, gas/service stations, and postal services.

-ALLOWED: Enroll your family in the AtHoc notification system. A CAC holder can register a family.

-NOT ALLOWED: Participate in off-base liberty.

-NOT ALLOWED: Go to off-base establishments that are not identified as essential services. (This includes childcare, schools, and off-base residences that are not your own.)

-NOT ALLOWED: Go to off-base restaurants. (This includes take-out and drive-through.)

-NOT ALLOWED: Take annual leave.

-NOT ALLOWED: Participate in activities with more than two individuals or with more than your family.

 

Update 1:

April 16, Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Matthew Donovan signed a department-wide authorization for service members to accrue and retain an additional leave balance of up to 120 days. The department's actions to stem the spread of COVID-19 has significantly limited the ability of service members to take leave during this national emergency, and we know that leave is vital to the health and welfare of our force.

More information can be found here: 

https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/Releases/Release/Article/2153213/special-leave-accrual-for-service-members/

 

16 April, 2020

Update 1:

The Camp Pendelton legal office has put together a newsletter regarding COVID-19 criminal activities, such as scams. You can find it at the link below. You will need a CAC to access the document.  https://iiimef.usmc.mil/staff/commstrat/COVID%2019/LA%20CPEN%20COVID-19%20Newsletter%20updated.pdf

 

15 April, 2020

Update 2:

Okinawa-wide COVID Care Line is Now Live! DoD patients across Okinawa can now call 098-971-9691 (from on base-646-9691) 24 hours a day/7 days a week. This is an island-wide call line for all your COVID-19 questions and concerns. If you are not able to get through the COVID Care Line, please contact the Nurse Advice Line at 012-099-6985 (from Japanese cell phones) or 0066-3382-1820 (Japanese toll free number).

 

Update 1:

The commander of U.S. Forces Japan declared a public health emergency for all of Japan, Apr. 15, 2020. This order expanded the previous declaration, which included only the Kanto Plain region. The declaration ensures commanders possess the necessary authorities to enforce compliance with health protection measures. It is applicable to anyone with access to U.S. installations or facilities and includes military, civilians, contractors, and host-nation employees.

For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/USForcesJapan/

 

14 April, 2020

Update 4:

Added info-graphic repository to the bottom of the webpage. You can download the images by right clicking and selcting "Save image as..."

 

Update 3:

Kadena AB is now providing limited walk-in services in order to  maintain social distancing for the safety and welfare of the DOD Military Family Housing office. Effective immediately, telephone appointments are required for all housing services until further notice.

For appointments please call 011-81-611-734-0582 (from mobile phone), 634-0582 (DSN) or email kadenahousing.customerservice@us.af.mil

To inquire or schedule pick up of government furnishings, please email:  718ces.fms@us.af.mil

 

Update 2:

Updated phone information, and provided infographic on main site, on what to do if you feel sick.

 

Update 1:

Added Social Distancing Activities info-graphic to picture rotator at the top of the webpage. 

 

13 April, 2020

Update 3:

Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs Smartpack has been updated with personnel reporting FAQs. Follow the link in our partner responses on the right side of this page.

Update 2:

Facilities tab updated with recent base percautionary measures, commissary safety measures, and temporary gym closure procedures.

Update 1:

U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa-wide COVID Care Line is Now Live!
DoD patients across Okinawa can now call 098-971-9691 (from on base-646-9691) 24 hours a day/7 days a week. This is an island-wide call line for all your COVID-19 questions and concerns. If you are not able to get through the COVID Care Line, please contact the Nurse Advice Line at 012-099-6985 (from Japanese cell phones) or 0066-3382-1820 (Japanese toll free number)

12 April, 2020

Update 1:

The Okinawa Times had an unattributed report of the first case of COVID-19 in Northern Okinawa. 

 

11 April, 2020

Update 1:

The below link provides information and updates about the status of COVID-19 cases in Okinawa.

https://okinawa.stopcovid19.jp/en/

 

10 April, 2020

Update 1:

The U.S. Embassy in Japan has stated, "As of April 8, 2020, and in accordance with this worldwide directive, the Embassy and consulates in Japan have canceled all routine passport and citizenship appointments. Until further notice, we are only able to issue limited validity emergency passports." For more informatiion please visit: https://jp.usembassy.gov/health-alert-us-embassy-tokyo-april7-2020/

09 April, 2020

Update 2:

New guidance from Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) regarding wear of facial coverings:

Effective April 10th, all DeCA employees and patrons MUST wear a face covering when entering, working or shopping in any DeCA Commissaries or facilities. If an installation commander has already issued a directive to require face coverings in DeCA Commissaries, this order shall not supersede their policy, and all patrons and employees shall adhere to current rules. This April 10 requirement applies where no local guidance has yet to be promulgated.

Update 1:

MCCS Fitness centers island-wide suspended operations for two weeks starting today.

08 April, 2020

Update 2:

III MEF would like to take a moment to thank everyone for continued compliance with recent DoD guidance on wearing a face mask or cloth face protection. As a reminder, the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform MCCUU should not be used to create masks due to it being treated with permethrin as a bug repellent. Due to the potential of toxicological exposure to permethrin via Inhalation, any permethrin treated material should not be used as face protection.

Update 1:

Effective Thursday, April 9 at 4 a.m., all MCCS Fitness Centers island-wide will suspend operations for two weeks.

LifeJuice Cafés co-located in MCCS Fitness Centers on Camps Courtney, Foster, Hansen, Kinser, Schwab and MCAS Futenma will also close during this two-week period.

For more information on changes to MCCS events and operations, visit mccsokinawa.com/covid19updates.

 

07 April, 2020

Update 3:

Marine Forces Japan is taking additional protective measures to mitigate the risk to our families and local communities as the cases of COVID-19 continue to grow in Okinawa and throughout Japan. These measures, some of which can be seen below, go into effect April 7. For a full list of the changes, please contact your chain of command.

- ALLOWED: Social or work related gatherings are allowed in groups of ten or smaller with social distancing.

- NOT ALLOWED: Use of non-military public/ mass transportation (buses, trains, taxis, etc.)

- NOT ALLOWED: Take off-base leave outside of your residence.

-NOT ALLOWED: Move to or from any location with more than two individuals or one family per vehicle.

 

Update 2: 

In an effort to maximize social distancing, the USNH Okinawa Camp Foster pharmacy will be implementing a curbside service for prescription pick-up starting Wednesday 08 April 2020. This will apply to renewals, refills, new prescriptions, and emergency contraceptives. We will not be offering smoking cessation consultations at this time.

Before coming to the pharmacy, it is highly recommended that patients call ahead at 646-WELL to speak to a pharmacy staff member for advanced processing to minimize wait times. For prescription refills, please continue to use 098-971-7999 or use TricareOnline. Once the prescriptions have been processed, the pharmacy staff will contact you via a text or a call to notify you that the prescription is ready for pickup. Please do not walk into the hospital to pick up your prescriptions. In your vehicle, please follow the signs and proceed to the Southern entrance, near the flagpole, of the hospital to pick-up your prescriptions. For those without a vehicle, the process is the same but with a separate queue for pedestrian traffic.

 

Update 1: The DOD has released new guidance on the use of face masks, see below. 

"Effective immediately, to the extent practical, all individuals on DoD property, installations, and facilities will wear cloth face coverings when they cannot maintain six feet of social distance in public areas or work centers (this does not include in a Service member's or Service family member's personal residence on a military installation). This includes all:

• Military Personnel

• DoD Civilian Employees

• Family Members

• DoD Contractors

• All other individuals on DoD property, installations, and facilities

Exceptions to this requirement may be approved by local commanders or supervisors, and then submitted up the chain of command for situational awareness. Security checkpoints may require the lowering of face covers to verify identification."

For information from the CDC on face coverings, including how to make your own, visit:https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

 

05 April, 2020

Update 1: The likelihood of a community born infection within Okinawa is more likely with new cases Okinawa Times article states: https://www.okinawatimes.co.jp/articles/-/556348

03 April, 2020

Update 3: Updated M&RA smartpack link on right side of webpage to latest information: https://www.manpower.usmc.mil/webcenter/content/conn/WebCenterSpaces-ucm/path/Enterprise%20Libraries/ActiveMarine/COVID-19%20Updates/COVID-19%20Smart%20Pack%20-%202%20Apr%2020%20v1.pdf

Update 2: As the challenges presented by COVID-19 continue to unfold, if Marines with an End of Active Service or retirement date in the next few months need more time to implement a successful transition, they can request extensions within the fiscal year via their career planner and Manpower Management.

Update 1: Effective April 3, Japan will deny entry for travelers arriving from the U.S. and 72 other countries. Per USFJ order, all SOFA personnel are not permitted to use public transportation upon arrival and will undergo a 14-day quarantine at their installations. It is still imperative that you work with your departing and incoming units to ensure you fall within the travel exemption policies. 

 

02 April, 2020

Update 1: Effective on April 3, 2020, Japan will bar admission to travelers who have recently visited any country that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has designated “Level 3” for infectious disease concerns, which includes the United States. Travelers from the United States are not permitted to enter Japan and should not board flights. For details and exemptions, please refer to the Japan National Tourism Organization’s website,   http://www.japan.travel/en/coronavirus/ and The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Japan Covid-19 response page on the right side of our webpage under partner responses. 

 

31 March, 2020

Update 2: The Department of Defense recently published guidance regarding how COVID-19 positive cases in the U.S. military will be publicly reported. 

In order to maintain operational security, only the Office of the Secretary of Defense or Headquarters Marine Corps will release aggregate numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases.   Those numbers will be consolidated at the DoD/Service levels.

Numbers of people in isolation, quarantine, or possibly infected will not be released.

That said, to strike a balance with protecting operational security while maintaining transparency regarding the spread of the virus, we will share Marine Corps Installations Pacific’s Facebook announcement when an individual* on Marine Corps Base Camp Butler** has tested positive for COVID-19.  If known, we will share how the individual became infected.  No further details will be released about positive cases, for example: the employment/duty/SOFA status, age, or gender of the individual.  We will not provide a running tally. 

* “Individual” comprises service members, employees, contractors, and family members.

** For the purposes of this reporting, MCB Camp Butler encompasses all Marine Corps installations on Okinawa to include MCAS Futenma.

 

Update 1: DoDEA Pacific has just released a letter updateing the timeline for schools stating, "Due to the current health protection conditions in our communities, we will not be able to resume our normal operations on April 13." For more updates on DoDEA's current plan visit their COVID-19 response page linked in our partner pages on the right side of our website. For more homeschooling resources and activities be sure to visit the Military Once Source COVID-19 response page also linked on the right side of our webpage.

 

27 March, 2020

Update 5: Marine Corps Base Butler and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma implement additional protective measures as well. For more information: https://www.mcipac.marines.mil/News/Article/2127808/marine-corps-base-butler-and-marine-corps-air-station-futenma-implement-health/

Update 4: In support of the increase to HPCON C on March 27 and the change to the risk assessment, III MEF/MARFORJ implimented additional protective measures. See them in "Policy" tab of this webpage.

Update 3: Updated the Policy tab to reflect MARADMIN 192/20 and 193/20. These documents provide further guidance on OCONUS travel, family separation allowance, teleworking, and a host of other useful topics.

Update 2: Added military one source link to right side of website. This website includes resources for families, TRICARE information, financial support, scam alerts and much more. Please check it out.

Update 1: Updated to the M&RA Smart Pack link to the latest March 27th Version

 

26 March, 2020

Update 2: Effective March 26 the government of Japan is requiring all travelers from the United States to conduct a 14-day self-quarantine at their point of arrival into the country. More information can be found here: https://jp.usembassy.gov/health-alert-u-s-embassy-tokyo-march-23-2020/

Update 1: The Green Line is supporting social distancing efforts. This includes new seating arrangements. More information will be posted at all bus stop locations and can be found here: https://www.mcbbutler.marines.mil/Base-Information/The-Green-Line/TGL-NOTICE/

25 March, 2020 

U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has raised the Health Protection Condition (HPCON) to "Charlie". However, because there have been no changes to the situation here in Okinawa, at this time there is no immediate changes to restrictions, closures, or other actions.

*Click on the Health Protection Condition (HPCON) tab under information below to see what condition Charlie means.

 

24 March, 2020 15:30 JST

 

The Distribution Management Officer (DMO) provided some further guidance on how the recent stop movement will effect shipping household goods and PCS movements.

*For more information click on the DMO tab under information below

 

New information has been released from MCCS providing guidance for Child Development Centers (CDC)

*For more information click on the MCCS link under partner responses on the right side of our page

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marine Forces-Japan adjusts health protection condition measures on Okinawa

 

OKINAWA, Japan – Marine Forces – Japan has updated some safety protocols and transitioned to Health Protection Condition “Bravo” beginning Sept 10.

 

The transition to less restrictive measures were based on effective results in our containment strategy on-base through our rigorous testing efforts, thorough contact tracing, and preventative health measures to include mask-wearing and social distancing.

 

Marine Forces – Japan continues to take all necessary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, with the safety and well-being of our personnel, families, and local communities at the forefront of our planning considerations. The updated safety measures clarify authorized activities both on and off-base, and emphasize that Marines and SOFA-status personnel and their families must take this situation seriously and avoid risky behaviors and locations.

 

With the updated safety measures, MARFOR-J personnel may now conduct off-base activities where social distancing can be maintained and mass gatherings can be avoided. Personnel can now shop at retail stores and enter restaurants for take-out food. Additionally, personnel are now allowed to use off-base hotels, travel via ferries and commercial airlines, and eat at restaurants with outdoor seating.

 

These changes are based on a thorough review of the current COVID-19 pandemic situation on Okinawa and the effectiveness of our safety measures in limiting the spread of the virus on-base. These measures will continually be reviewed to ensure the protection of the force, our families, and the local community. The preventive measures remaining in place are in compliance with the current Government of Japan, Center of Disease Control and Prevention, and USFJ guidance. MARFOR-J personnel will continue to exercise elevated levels of hygiene and social distancing aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Butler facilities.

 

All Marine Corps personnel in Japan and their families have been reminded that COVID-19 is still a very real threat as we continue to see new cases every day throughout Okinawa. We will continue to follow all safety protocols to keep our communities healthy and our forces ready to fight tonight. Personnel still have a responsibility to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by practicing good personnel hygiene, wearing facemasks, and adhering to proper social-distancing.

 

MARFOR-J will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in the local area and make adjustments to these safety protocols in the best interests of the health and safety of our forces, families, and the local community.

 

Additional resources about COVID-19 and the status of on-base and other services are available at: https://www.iiimef.marines.mil/Coronavirus/.

 

Base Access

We ask that you follow official notification for all updates concerning access to Marine Corps Installations on Okinawa.

Schools and Childcare
 

DODEA will not resume normal operations on April 13. Teachers will continue to provide virtual instruction to students until schools are able to reopen.

Click here to read a letter from the Department of Defense Education Activity

Defense Commissary Agency
Commissary shoppers and employees will be required to wear facemasks effective 10 April. All use of re-usable shopping bags has been discontinued for the time being.

At this time, the commissary will be conducting 100% I.D. checks at the entrance of all stores and no visitors will be allowed entrance. In addition, there will be no more "early bird" shopping hours to allow more time for cleaning and re-stocking of our stores.

For more information click here

Dining Facilities
Dining facilities remain open with percuationary measures in place to mitigate risk to our forces, families, and the local community.
 

 

MCCS Fitness Centers

*Please contact your local base gyms for potential closures to increase hygiene and cleaning measures.

 

Effective 03 June all MCCS fitness centers, satallite gyms, and HITT centers will return to normal pre-COVID-19 operating hours as posted on facilitty entrances and the MCCS Okinawa website. Access will be reopened to all authorized patrons, i.e. no more "active dity only" hours.  Remaining closed until further notice are group fitness classes; massage therapy; mixed martial arts; personal training; MCMAP rooms; indoor HITT and multi-purpose rooms; all indoor sports courts; rock walls; as well as all Adult and Youth Sports programming, and facility/field reservations remain closed.

 

MCCS Staffed Fitness Centers- Will beging normal, pre-COVID-19 operating hours as of 03 June with access for all authorized personnel.

1. Access will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis and is reopened to all authorized oatrons (no more "active duty only" hours)

2. 100% Sign-in/sign-out will be required.

4. Face coverings are required in all areas except the outdoor HITT Centers and while using cardio equipment.

5. Patrons must bring their own gym towel to clean and wipe down all equipment after use.

6. MCCS staff will monitor hand-washing, social distancing, enforce equipment cleaning, and perform sanitizing cycles three times daily.

7. To enforce social distancing, some equipment will be marked as unavailable for use.

8. Work out no longer than 60 minutes with no more than one partner; no spotting or max/forced reps (use lower weight and higher reps vice heavy lifting); no explosive exhalations or "forced" breathing; and maintain social distancing.

9. Max patron counts will be enforced as follows:

Camp	Facility	Max Patronage
Kinser	Kinser Fitness Center	40
Futenma	McCutcheon Gym Semper Fit Fitness Center	35 30
Foster	Gunners Fitness Center	45
Courtney	Ironworks Fitness Center	25
Hansen	House of Pain House of Pain North	35 25
Schwab	Power Dome	42

 

 

MCCS Satellite Gyms—meaning the six MCCS unstaffed facilities— will remain open 24 hours effective 21 May. 
 

1. Access will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis to all authorized personnel

2. Face covering are required in all areas of the facility, except while using the carido equipment.

3. Patrons are required to bring their own gym towel.

4. Use the provided patron-count sheet to sign-in and sign-out of the facility.

5. To ensure social distancing, some equipment will be marked and unavailble for use.

6. Patrons must wipe off equipment before and after use.

7. Workouts should be kept to 60 minutes of less.

8. Max patron counts will be enforced at each facility as listed below:

Camp	Facility	Max Patronage
Kinser	Kinser Family  Fitness Center	4
Lester Housing	Lester Fitness Center	15
Plaze Housing	Plaza Fitness Center	6
Courtney/McTureous	McTureous Gym	6
Foster	Building 1	6
Foster	Navy Hospital Gym	12

 

MCCS Okinawa’s outdoor HITT Centers will reopen Thursday, April 23, 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily, with the following guidelines:

- Access will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis to all authorized personnel (no more "active duty only" hours)

- Face coverings will not be required.

- All equipment at our existing HITT Centers including free weights, dumbbells and kettle bells will be available for use.

- Patrons must wipe off equipment before and after use with the available disinfectant wipes.

- Max patron counts will be enforced at each location to promote social distancing, per the           following chart:

 

Camp	HITT Center	Recommended Patronage	Patrons served / Day*
Kinser	Kinser HITT Center	12	204
Futenma	Semper Fit HITT Center	12	204
Foster	Gunners HITT Center	25	425
Courtney	Ironworks HITT Center	12	204
Hansen	HITT Park	25	425
Hansen	House of Pain HITT Center	7	119
Schwab	Power Dome HITT Center	20	340

*(0430-2130) 60 Min

- All team-based adult and youth sports events (games and practices) cancelled.

- All Group Fitness, HITT, Fit Camp, Youth Hip Hop and Mixed Martial Arts Classes cancelled.

- All sports fields and indoor courts including facility reservation requests cancelled.

- All Semper Fit indoor athletic events such as basketball cancelled.

- HITT Challenge Preliminaries, postponed date TBD

- Murph Challenge, postponed date TBD.

- Effective 21 May, Outdoor Rec equipment rentals as well as outdoor tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, skate parks, softball fields and multi-purpose athletic fields will be open

- Effective 21 May, Outdoor and indoor gear issue at fitness centers including family sports kits on the family camps (Courtney, Foster and Kinser) will be available for checkout.

- Facility/field reservations remain closed.

 

Army and Air Force Exchange Service

Effective immediately, as of May 7, all exchange theaters on Okinawa will be temporarily closed until further notice.

 

Chapel

 On-base Chapel services will resume virtual services. 

Please check with Chapel Facebook pages and the MCB Camp Butler web page, at https://www.mcbbutler.marines.mil/base-information/chapels/ to see what means are available to participate virtually.

Click here for Times and specific base's Facebook Page links.

Libraries

Effective May 4, All libraries will reopen with normal hours with the following new guidlines.

1. Face masks are required to be worn

2. Maximum of:

50 people at a time at Foster and Hansen libraries

25 people at a time at all other MCCS libraries

3. Social distancing will be strictly enforced.

 

Foster Library 098-970-7178
Futenma Library 098-970-5555 then 636-3946 at the dial tone
Courtney Library 098-954-9280
Kinser Library 098-970-5555 then 637-1039 at the dial tone
Schwab Library 098-970-5555 then 625-2518 at the dial tone
Hansen Library 098-969-7372

You can find additional contact information here:
https://www.mccsokinawa.com/librarycontact/

DOD Civilians and Japanese National Employees must follow “sick leave” policies and coordinate with their supervisors.

All personnel and dependents under SOFA status in Japan are expected to follow the USFJ public health order. U.S. civilian employees or dependents who fail to comply with this order will be subjected to administrative action.

Military members are expected to report their dependents who travel through areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases. 

Wash your hands often

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• It’s especially important to wash:
  • Before eating or preparing food
  • Before touching your face
  • After using the restroom
  • After leaving a public place
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
  • After handling your cloth face covering
  • After changing a diaper
  • After caring for someone sick
  • After touching animals or pets
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact

• Inside your home: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
• Outside your home: Put 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.
  • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
  • Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.
  • Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
  • Avoid mas gatherings, parties and other large groups where the risk of spreading COVID-19 is high.

 

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others

• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
• The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
• Everyone should wear a cloth face cover in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
  • Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
• Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.
• Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

 

Cover coughs and sneezes

• Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit.
• Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

 

Clean and disinfect

• Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
• If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
• Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectantsexternal icon will work.

 

Monitor Your Health Daily

• Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
  • Especially important if you are running essential errands, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a physical distance of 6 feet.
• Take your temperature if symptoms develop.
  • Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen.

 

COVID-19 related scams

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many people around the world to be put in difficult situations and looking for answers or resources. Unfortunatly there have been those looking to exploit the vulnerable state people may be in.

Click the link below for guidance from NCIS on COVID-19 stimulus check-related scams that have been taking place, and how you can protect yourself.

https://iiimef.usmc.afpims.mil/Portals/22/IIIMEF/COVID-19/covidscam_3.pdf?ver=2020-04-23-221123-057

USFJ is currently in Health Protection Condition (HPCON) “Charlie".

**JAPAN IS A CDC LEVEL 3 THN COUNTRY**

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center: 

This toolkit is intended to reduce stress though deep relaxation and to optimize performance.

https://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcphc/health-promotion/psychological-emotional-wellbeing/relax-relax/pages/index.html

 

DSTRESS: 

Anonymous Marine-to-Marine phone chat and support that operates 24/7 to help manage stress in all forms

              To speak anonymously with a live person:  098-970-7734

              Online Chat: https://usmc-mccs.org/services/support/dstress-line/

 

Military Crisis Line: 

Text-messaging service, and online chat that provides free and confidential VA support for all Service members, their family members and friends.

              Call 1-800-273-8255; press 1 or TEXT 838255

              Online Chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/military-crisis-line

 

Suicide Prevention 24/7 Hotline

              Worldwide toll-free: +1-800-273-8255

              https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Reporting of COVID-19 cases:

The Department of Defense recently published guidance regarding how COVID-19 positive cases in the U.S. military will be publicly reported. In order to maintain operational security, only the Office of the Secretary of Defense or Headquarters Marine Corps will release aggregate numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases.  Those numbers will be consolidated at the DoD/Service levels. Numbers of people in isolation, quarantine, or possibly infected will not be released. That said, to strike a balance with protecting operational security while maintaining transparency regarding the spread of the virus, we will share Marine Corps Installations Pacific’s Facebook announcement when an individual* on Marine Corps Base Camp Butler** has tested positive for COVID-19.  If known, we will share how the individual became infected.  No further details will be released about positive cases, for example: the employment/duty/SOFA status, age, or gender of the individual.  We will not provide a running tally. 

* “Individual” comprises service members, employees, contractors, and family members.

** For the purposes of this reporting, MCB Camp Butler encompasses all Marine Corps installations on Okinawa to include MCAS Futenma.

 

MARADMIN 333/20 

TRANSITION TO CONDITIONS-BASED PHASED APPROACH TO CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019 PERSONNEL MOVEMENT AND TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS UPDATE

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2212654/transition-to-conditions-based-phased-approach-to-coronavirus-disease-2019-pers/

 

MARADMIN 285/20

SUPPLEMENTAL GUIDANCE TO PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION ASSIGNMENTS DUE TO 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2183862/supplemental-guidance-to-permanent-change-of-station-assignments-due-to-2019-no/

 

MARADMIN 284/20

HEALTH SAFETY SCREENING REQUIREMENTS TO PROTECT THE FORCE/INDUSTRY DURING RELOCATION PROCESS (HOUSEHOLD GOODS MOVES)

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2183843/health-safety-screening-requirements-to-protect-the-forceindustry-during-reloca/

 

MARADMIN 283/20

CLARIFYING GUIDANCE TO COVID-19 RELATED RESERVE COMPONENT EXTENSIONS AND INITIAL INCREMENTAL ACTIVE DUTY TRAINING

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2183830/clarifying-guidance-to-covid-19-related-reserve-component-extensions-and-initia/

 

MARADMIN 269/20

MANPOWER SUPPLEMENTAL GUIDANCE TO PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST, COMBAT FITNESS TEST, AND BODY COMPOSITION PROGRAM ADVISORY 1-20

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2172336/manpower-supplemental-guidance-to-physical-fitness-test-combat-fitness-test-and/

 

MARADMIN 267/20

COVID19 SUPPLEMENTAL GUIDANCE TO ACTIVE DUTY MARINE TRAVELERS TO SCHEDULED ADVANCED FORMAL SCHOOL COURSES

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2169715/covid19-supplemental-guidance-to-active-duty-marine-travelers-to-scheduled-adva/

 

MARADMIN 264/20

UPDATE #1: COVID-19 SUPPLEMENTAL PERSONNEL GUIDANCE

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2165785/update-1-covid-19-supplemental-personnel-guidance/

 

MARADMIN 262/20

INTERIM MARINE CORPS INSTALLATION/SITE ACCESS CONTROL PROCEDURES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2162116/interim-marine-corps-installationsite-access-control-procedures-during-the-covi/

 

MARADMIN 260/20

PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST, COMBAT FITNESS TEST, AND BODY COMPOSITION PROGRAM ADVISORY 1-20

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2161706/physical-fitness-test-combat-fitness-test-and-body-composition-program-advisory/

1) Cancelation of: PFT, CFT make-ups, and measurements as part of the Body Composition Program(BCP)

2) Exception to the order, and annotation for personnel records

3) CFT make-up cancelation

4) Exception to policy

5) BCP guidance

 

MARADMIN 254/20

UPDATE #7: U.S. MARINE CORPS DISEASE CONTAINMENT PREPAREDNESS PLANNING GUIDANCE FOR 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): MODIFICATION AND REISSUANCE OF DOD RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 2019-TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS

 

MARADMIN 236/20

UPDATE #6: U.S. MARINE CORPS DISEASE CONTAINMENT PREPAREDNESS PLANNING GUIDANCE FOR 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): PROTECTING PERSONNEL IN WORKPLACES

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2152035/update-6-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

MARADMIN 218/20

UPDATE #5: U.S MARINE CORPS DISEASE CONTAINMENT PREPAREDNESS PLANNING GUIDANCE FOR 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): MARINE CORPS GUIDANCE ON THE USE OF CLOTH FACE COVERINGS

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2139522/update-5-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

MARADMIN 213/20

EXTENSION OPTIONS IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2138019/extension-options-in-response-to-covid-19/

 

MARADMIN 206/20

GUIDANCE FOR REPLACING COMMON ACCESS CARDS EXPIRING IN THE NEXT 60 DAYS

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2134177/guidance-for-replacing-common-access-cards-expiring-in-the-next-60-days/

 

MARADMIN 193/20

U.S MARINE CORPS DISEASE CONTAINMENT PREPAREDNESS PLANNING GUIDANCE
-updated CMC guidance to the force for OCONUS travel restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2127717/update-4-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

MARADMIN 192/20
https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2127706/covid19-supplemental-personnel-guidance-for-commanders/
Supplemental guidance concerning:
(1) Alternate Place of Duty;
(2) Telework;
(3) Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS);
(4) Housing Allowances;
(5) Family Separation Allowance (FSA);
(6) Travel and Transportation Allowances;
(7) Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA);
(8) Hardship Duty Pay – Restriction of Movement (HDP-ROM);
(9) Leave;
(10) Reserve Component Specific Guidance.
 

USFJ HPCON POLICY

Click the link below to view the updated policy,

https://www.usfj.mil/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=ckcrNWy-IsY%3d&portalid=80

 

MARADMIN 167/20

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 Force Health Protection threat, HQMC has issued updated CMC guidance aligned with DOD travel restrictions and travel health procedures in order to reduce the risk of further exposure to, or spread of, COVID-19. MARADMIN 167/20 provides supplemental guidance to MARADMINs 082/20, 150/20 and 162/20. For our Navy service members and families reference NAVADMIN 065/20

3.C.2.A. Service Member travel (PCS/TDY)
3.C.2.B  Civilians and Family members
3.C.2.C. Leave and Liberty
3.C.2.D. Reserve Component
3.C.2.E. Exemptions

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2112231/update-3-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

NAVADMIN 065/20

3.A. Service Member Travel Guidance
3.C. Civilian Official Travel
3.D. Leave and Liberty
3.E. Exceptions
3.F. Holding Conferences
3.G. Post Travel Guidance

https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/reference/messages/Documents/NAVADMINS/NAV2020/NAV20065.txt

 

MARADMIN 162-20

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 Force Health Protection threat, HQMC has issued updated CMC guidance for travel restrictions and travel health procedures in order to reduce the risk of further exposure to, or spread of, COVID-19.  MARADMIN 162/20 addresses:

3.C.2.A. Travel restrictions for Marines and their families
3.C.2.F. Leave and Liberty review
3.C.2.I. Screening and reception procedures
3.C.2.J. Travel for professional military education
3.C.2.K. Guidance for large gatherings
3.D.1. Pre-travel and post-travel screening procedures
 

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2110885/update-2-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

DOD GUIDANCE

By now many of you have seen the SECDEF’s travel restrictions in response to COVID-19.  We are awaiting implementation policy and more specific guidance from Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Forces Japan.  This new DoD guidance will impact travel for military and civilian personnel and their families and we understand there are many questions and concerns at this time.  We will release further guidance as soon as we receive it.  In the meantime, please stay in close communication with your leadership if you have travel plans such as a TDY, PCS, or leave away from your home station.     

https://media.defense.gov/2020/Mar/11/2002263242/-1/-1/1/TRAVEL-RESTRICTIONS-FOR-DOD-COMPONENTS-IN-RESPONSE-TO-CORONAVIRUS-DISEASE-2019.PDF

In addition to travel restrictions, DoD also released updated force health protection guidance for all travelers as we deal with the spread of COVID-19.  Among other guidance, all DOD personnel who have traveled from, to, or through Level 2 or 3 countries should self-monitor for 14 days after returning.  For more details, follow the link below:

https://media.defense.gov/2020/Mar/11/2002263241/-1/-1/1/FORCE-HEALTH-PROTECTION-GUIDANCE-SUPPLEMENT-4.PDF

 

MARADMIN 150/20

All official travel to OCONUS locations that have declared a public health emergency, or which a travel advisory has been issued by the CDC, will be reviewed and approved by a Deputy Commandant, a Marine Force Commander or a Commanding General, Marine Expeditionary Force. 

Leave and liberty plans will be reviewed to ensure personnel are not traveling to locations that have declared a public health emergency.  Leave requests to areas with a declared public health emergency, or which a travel advisory has been issued by the CDC, will be reviewed and approved by the first general officer in the chain of command.

MARADMIN 150/20 can be found at 

https://www.marines.mil/News/Messages/Messages-Display/Article/2104975/update-1-us-marine-corps-disease-containment-preparedness-planning-guidance-for/

 

World Health Organization COVID-19 world tracker:

https://covid19.who.int/

• Restriction of Movement (ROM) – Limiting movement of an individual or group to prevent or diminish the transmission of a communicable disease, including limiting ingress and egress to, from, or on a military installation; self-monitoring; isolation; and quarantine.

 

• Self-Monitoring – Monitor oneself for fever, cough, or difficulty breathing symptoms.  If symptoms develop during the self-monitoring period, self-isolate, limit contact with others, and contact healthcare provider by phone.

 

• Isolation – Separation of an ill individual from others during the period of disease communicability in such a way that prevents, as far as possible, the direct or indirect conveyance of an infectious agent to those who are susceptible to infection or who may spread the agent to others. This includes Person Under Investigation (PUI) and individual who has tested positive. 

 

• Quarantine – Separation of an individual/group reasonably believed to have been exposed to a communicable disease, but not yet symptomatic, from others who have not been so exposed, in such a manner and place as to prevent the possible spread of the communicable disease.

 

• Social Distancing – Remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.

 

• Shelter in place – •To stay in home, vehicle, or office space and not leave. Get inside and cease all movement until all clear.  Sheltering in place is a more rigorous form of social distancing.  May include exceptions such as critical personnel.

 

• Person Under Investigation (PUI): A person meeting COVID-19 testing criteria or assessed by competent medical authority to require a test who is presumed to be positive for COVID-19 until determined not to have the virus by competent medical authority.

 

• Close Contacts – •Anyone who has been within 6 feet of an individual infected with the virus for 10 minutes or longer, as well as those who have had direct contact with the infected person's secretions, without appropriate protective measures.

 

Acronyms

ARDS - Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

CDC – Center for Disease Control

COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COVID-19 – Coronavirus Disease 2019

DoD – Department of Defense

DoS – Department of State

HPCON – Health Protection Condition

MERS – Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

SARS – Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome

WHO – World Health Organization

Visit Marine Corps Installations Pacific (MCIPAC) "PCS During COVID-19" dedicated webpage for more information regarding PCS movements.

https://www.mcipac.marines.mil/PCS-during-COVID-19/

 

May 14, 2020 Distribution Management Office (DMO) information for individuals PCSing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

 

Per MARADMIN 167/20, III MEF/MCIPAC personnel are officially in a STOP MOVE for Japan (Korea continues to be in STOP MOVE; no change).  Retiring members, separating members , medical evacuations, and written exemption to policy per MARADMIN 167/20 (3.C.2.E.) do not apply to STOP MOVE restrictions.  As of 23 March, 2020, all scheduled household goods packing and pickup appointments will be rescheduled to on or after 15 May, 2020.  Personnel that have already checked out, residing in TLF/Hotel, and had household goods picked up, may be eligible to move given written EXEMPTION TO POLICY are processed per MARADMIN 167/20 (3.C.2.E.) via the Chain of Command.  Members scheduled to depart on or after 24 March, 2020 will require written EXEMPTION TO POLICY and may be granted for compelling cases where the travel is: (1) determined to be mission essential; (2) necessary for humanitarian reasons; or (3) warranted due to extreme hardship.  All efforts will be made to ensure personnel are using the Patriot Express to mitigate exposure to commercial airports and airlines as best as possible.  If you have any questions, please contact the COVID-19 Operational Response Cell (CORC) to ensure proper communications.

 All personnel who have received orders to execute a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move will still continue to conduct Outbound Interview (OBI), HHG counseling, and Port Call requirements as normal operations will continue in support of the summer PCS season.

 

III MEF/MARFORJ

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions for liberty/leave in Okinawa

*These FAQs directly relate to the release of new safety measures outlined in FRAGO 007 to MOD 001 to III MEF/MARFORJ COVID-19 Outbreak EXORD and are subject to change at any time.

1. May I get an ETP approved by my chain of command to allow me to visit one of the unauthorized locations, such as an off-base gym or fitness center?

1. No. ETPs are not meant to circumvent restrictions.  ETPs are meant to address emergent circumstances only.

 

​2. May I attend religious services off-base?

2. You can attend off-base events, not in Naha, that are not high-density mass gathering events that preclude social distancing.

 

3. I see III MEF/MARFORJ personnel breaking the restrictions and safety measures.  What are we supposed to do when we see people breaking the rules?  Why are we being punished for the wrongdoings of others?

3. Personnel not in compliance with III MEF/MARFORJ policies and orders are subject to action under the UCMJ.We are all expected to hold each other accountable to these policies.While maintaining social distancing, you may confront the person/group and respectfully inform them of the policies they are in violation of.A picture/video says a thousand words.

 

4. The USNHO referred me to a medical appointment in Naha, the only place in Okinawa this procedure can be conducted.  May I go to my appointment?
4.  Yes. Medical appointments referred by the USNHO to facilities in Naha are authorized

 

5. The restrictions say no more than an individual, pair, family, or cohabitants.  If traveling to work or on liberty, can I have more than one person in my car?

5. While current policy states no more than an individual, pair, family, or cohabitants, good judgement must be exercised as well.For example, those sharing a domicile, if more than a pair, should be treated like family.The key is to use good judgement, socially distance, and wear a face covering.If you have a group of 6, rather than jamming them all into one car, utilize 2 vehicles and wear face coverings.

 

6. Off-base hotels are authorized.  Can I make a reservation and allow several of my friends to stay with me?

6. No. Reservations made at hotels on or off-base and facilities at Okuma are for an individual, pair, family, or cohabitants only.  No guests are allowed.

 

7. Since the mall is an authorized location for liberty can I utilize the food court?

7. Yes, for take-out, while maintaining social distancing.Use good judgement to avoid areas and activities that would spread COVID-19.If you cannot maintain social distancing at the food court, avoid the food court altogether.

 

8. What activities are prohibited?

8. The following off-base activities are prohibited: barbershops, gyms and fitness centers, hair salons, tattoo parlors, theaters, pachinko parlors, bowling alleys, high density tourist locations (such as the aquarium), karaoke clubs, bars, and any location that allows adults only.

 

9. Why are current HPCON B restrictions different than the last time we were in HPCON B?

9. HPCON levels do not dictate safety measures/restrictions.The current COVID-19 situation in the local community and on-base dictates safety measures.If the situation changes, additional safety measures may be added, but we might remain in HPCON B.Additionally, if the situation changes, some safety measures may be removed, while remaining in HPCON B.

 

10. I’m currently in a 14-day ROM period and just received a Red Cross notification for the loss of a loved one.  Can my ROM be waived and who can waive it?

10. Yes, with an approved ETP. Currently, the ETP approval authority for emergency leave situations for III MEF is LtGen Clardy and BGen Bowers for MCIPAC.At some point this authority may be delegated to the first General Officer in the chain of command, so check with your unit leadership for current requirements.

 

11. May my children participate in on-base youth sporting activities?

11. If youth sports are being offered on-base, you may enroll your children and they may participate.There may be certain COVID-19 safety measures that must be adhered to for each sport.

 

12. What activities on-base may we participate in?

12. All activities open on-base may be participated in if done while social distancing, wearing a face covering IAW guidelines, and while adhering to any additional COVID-19 safety measures implemented for that activity.

 

13. If I am married to a local national who has family in Naha, can my family and I visit them?

13. If you or your family have SOFA status, an ETP is required in writing by an O-5 Commander or GS/NAF supervisor equivalent.

 

14. Leave and liberty is authorized locally (within the Okinawa Prefecture).  Does this limit us to the Okinawa Island only?

14. No. There are a number of surrounding islands that are part of the Okinawa Prefecture.  All locations within the Okinawa Prefecture are authorized.

 

15. I have authorized travel via the Naha Airport, do I have to cancel my flight?

15. No. Approved travel via the Naha Airport is authorized.

 

16. Why do we have to do exit-testing when it wasn’t necessary before?

16. DoD and USMC policy mandates exit testing for all SOFA-status personnel.We have now phased in the policy that requires all US personnel exiting 14-day ROM to undergo a COVID-19 test.Additionally, COVID-19 is more prevalent in the world than it was before.Exit testing is an important part of our overall strategy to contain and ultimately defeat this virus.Our policies continue to evolve, both here and in the US, and they are constantly under review.We have also refocused our efforts on explaining and ensuring compliance with our existing ROM procedures.

 

17. Can we go to the Okuma Resort? 
17. Yes. Okuma is considered on-base.  All on-base restrictions apply to Okuma to include rentals only being authorized for an individual, pair, family, or cohabitants.  No guests allowed.

 

18. Can I rent an Airbnb? 

18. No. You may stay at off-base hotels.

 

19. Why does my unit have more restrictions than others?

19. Unit commanders and specific camps can impose additional measures deemed necessary for the unit or camp’s situation.

 

20. Are we allowed to physically enter a restaurant to pick up food?
20. Yes.  However, you are not allow to sit down inside a restaurant to eat.  Additionally, you must socially distance while in the restaurant.  If you cannot maintain social distancing while inside waiting on your food, you must wait outside.   

 

21. Why are neck gaiters and one-way valve face coverings not allowed anymore? 

21. We are following the guidance provided by the CDC and our own medical personnel.These type of masks allow air to be exhaled through holes in the material, which can result in expelled respiratory droplets that can reach others.  These type of masks do not prevent the person wearing the mask from transmitting COVID-19 to others.

 

22. Does this mean the Green Line is restricted now too?

22. No, the Green Line can still be used as normal.

 

23. Why is X prohibited off-base when Y is not?

23. Working closely with medical authorities, we have determined that certain off-base activities pose a greater risk to our force and the surrounding community.

 

24. May I consume alcohol off-base?

24. Yes, as long as it’s not at an unauthorized location, done while social distancing, done responsibly, and while exercising good judgement.

 

25. May I use a taxi while off-base?

25. Only if it’s a taxi authorized for on-base access.Daikos are also prohibited.

 

26. Do I need O-5 commander approval to take a ferry?

26. You do not need O-5 commander approval if you are traveling by ferry or plane within the Okinawa Prefecture.With the exception of commercial airlines and ferries, all off-base, non-government mass public transportation is prohibited.

 

27. Is martial arts allowed now?

27. It depends.There are some forms of martial arts that allow social distancing.Those are allowed.Other forms of martial arts where social distancing cannot be maintained are prohibited.All activities on base that adhere to proper social distancing and face covering protocols are authorized unless prohibited by your unit commander.

 

28. Are we allowed to go to the aquarium?

28. No, the aquarium is considered a high-density tourist attraction and is not allowed.

 

29. Can we go on a charter boat or fishing boat?

29. Only if you can maintain social distancing.

 

30. What safety measures are schools taking when they reopen?  Is it possible they will close again?  What happens if my child gets COVID while at school?

30. Please visit https://www.dodea.edu/parents/index.cfm for details on school re-openings and current preventative health measures being put in place.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause the common cold or Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019, now known as COVID-19, is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

COVID-19 can spread through person-to-person contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.

When someone who has COVID-19 coughs or exhales, they release droplets of infected fluid that can be breathed in by people close by or fall on shared surfaces such as desks and tables. 

It is important to practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet away from others whenever possible and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands to prevent the spread of the virus.

There is a heightened risk to the mission and welfare of MARFOR-J personnel.  Japan is currently listed as a CDC THN Level 3 country and USFJ is in Health Protection Condition “Bravo”. 

Immediately notify your chain of command. Call ahead before visiting any medical facility to receive guidance from medical professionals. If you have any concerns you can contact the U.S. Naval Hospital at 646-7555 or 090-6861-5230.

If you have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, notify your chain of command. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath).Contact the U.S. Naval Hospital at 646-7555 or 090-6861-5230

People in close contact with someone who is infected with COVID-19 are at a higher risk of becoming infected themselves, and of potentially further infecting others.  Closely watching these contacts after exposure to an infected person will help the contacts to get care and treatment, and will prevent further transmission of the virus.

This monitoring process is called contact tracing, which can be broken down into 3 basic steps:

1. Contact identification: Once someone is confirmed as infected with a virus, contacts are identified by asking about the person’s activities and the activities and roles of the people around them since onset of illness. Contacts can be anyone who has been in contact with an infected person: family members, work colleagues, friends, or health care providers.

2. Contact listing: All persons considered to have contact with the infected person should be listed as contacts. Efforts should be made to identify every listed contact and to inform them of their contact status, what it means, the actions that will follow, and the importance of receiving early care if they develop symptoms. Contacts should also be provided with information about prevention of the disease. In some cases, quarantine or isolation is required for high risk contacts, either at home, or in hospital.

3. Contact follow-up: Regular follow-up should be conducted with all contacts to monitor for symptoms and test for signs of infection.

Who conducts a Contact Trace?

 If someone tests positive, or is identified as a potential COVID-19 case, USNHO in conjunction with the III MEF Surgeon will conduct a contact trace.

For more information on DoD travel restrictions please visit the link below.

 

https://media.defense.gov/2020/Mar/14/2002264758/-1/-1/1/FAQ_TRAVEL_RESTRICTIONS_V3.PDF

Current installtion criteria for DOD travel restrictions

https://media.defense.gov/2020/Jul/08/2002450685/-1/-1/1/COVID_19_TRAVEL_RESTRICTIONS_INSTALLATION_STATUS_UPDATE_JULY_8_2020.PDF

 

 

Q1. Will the Marine Corps reimburse me if my travel is canceled due to COVID-19 concerns?

A1. The Marine Corps will not reimburse individual Marines if their travel is canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. Individual Marines are STRONGLY encouraged to purchase travel insurance and retain all receipts for personal travel.

Q2. What can I do if my travel has been canceled?

A2. Impacted Marines and sailors are encouraged to work with their travel provider to attempt to recoup any losses they incur due to travel cancelations related to COVID-19.

Q2. How can I protect myself financially from a COVID-19-related travel cancelation?

Q2. Marines and sailors are STRONGLY encouraged to purchase travel insurance and retain all receipts for personal travel in order to protect themselves financially from COVID-19 related travel cancelations.

Q3. How will I prove that my travel was canceled due to COVID-19?

Q3. Individual Marines and sailors should ensure they obtain documentation from their command, through MOL or separate correspondence, which explicitly states that their leave/liberty has been canceled due to COVID-19’s impact on mission.

Q4. Can I purchase travel insurance after already making travel arrangements?

A4. The Marine Corps strongly encourages Marines and sailors to inquire with their travel provider to see if travel insurance is still available after purchasing tickets.  

Q5. Will there be a plan to alleviate the financial burden caused by travel cancelations due to COVID-19 in the future?

Q5. Marines impacted by COVID-19 travel cancelations should retain all documents related to canceled travel to include; receipts, travel insurance, MOL notifications, command endorsements, and all other associated paperwork until further notice.

To date, the CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can be infected with or spread COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it is always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals.

Please send additional questions regarding the III MEF COVID-19 response to:

mefcovid.questions@usmc.mil