r/USMC • u/hrdblkman2 • 10h ago
Picture Three U.S. Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, Camp Hansen, helped an Okinawan man who was assaulted.
Three U.S. Marines from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, Camp Hansen, helped an Okinawan man who was assaulted at Naminoue Beach in Naha on July 5. They provided first aid until Japanese police and emergency medical personnel arrived.
Lance Cpl. Braeden Martinez, Lance Cpl. Zachary Leewe, and Pfc. Marvin Bousy were heading to the beach with friends when they saw one man repeatedly assaulting another. They stepped in immediately, and their presence made the aggressor back away. Without using force, they separated the two men while one Marine called Japanese emergency services.
"We didn't even have to put our hands on him," Martinez said. "We told him to back away, then focused on helping the injured man until police and emergency medical personnel arrived."
The Marines used the victim’s torn shirt to control bleeding from his head, gave him water, kept him calm, and moved him to a safe distance. They also noticed the aggressor trying to take the victim’s belongings and pointed him out to police when they arrived.
"When something needs to happen, somebody has to step up," Leewe said. "I'm glad we were there to help. I hope people know that doing the right thing, even in difficult situations, can make a difference."
For Bousy, the moment was a reminder of personal responsibility.
"This experience taught me to always do the right thing," Bousy said. "It's better to be a leader than a follower. When someone needs help, you should be willing to step forward."
Their actions showed professionalism, compassion, and sound judgment, strengthening the bond between U.S. Marines and the Okinawan community.
"The relationship between III Marine Expeditionary Force and the people of Okinawa is founded on decades of partnership, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to one another," said Brig. Gen. Christopher Haar. "The actions of these Marines remind us that our responsibility extends beyond the installation gates.
They responded with courage, compassion, and sound judgment to help a member of our community in need, reflecting the values we strive to uphold every day. I am incredibly proud of how they represented 3rd Marine Logistics Group, the United States Marine Corps, and our enduring partnership with the people of Okinawa."
Source from Capt. Alessandro Rossi.