Okinawa-based U.S. helicopter unit sent to Iraq

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Okinawa-based U.S. helicopter unit sent to Iraq

A U.S. Marine helicopter squadron based at U.S. Marine Corps Futenma Air Station in Okinawa has been sent out to Iraq in January.

Once again, this shows that U.S. military bases in Okinawa are directly connected with the unjustifiable U.S. military operations in Iraq.

The U.S. Marine Corps newspaper "Okinawa Marine" (electronic edition) on January 26 reported that this squadron was called to combat for the first time since the time of the Vietnam War some 40 years ago.

In the western Iraqi province of Anbar, the squadron will assist in surprise raids and rescue operations, deliver supplies, and provide air support to ground troops.

The U.S. Bush administration is carrying out a plan to send another 4,000 troops to Anbar.
- Akahata, January 27, 2007