III MEF Support Battalion Enhances Marine Lethality with MCMAP Training
Okinawa, Japan – U.S. Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Support Battalion (III MSB) recently participated in Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) training at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, reinforcing close combat skills and physical conditioning to enhance warfighting capabilities.
MCMAP: A Core Component of Marine Readiness
The MCMAP is a foundational element of Marine Corps training, designed to increase Marines’ lethality through a combination of physical fitness and instruction in close combat techniques. The program emphasizes not only physical prowess but too mental resilience and tactical awareness.
Training Highlights
The training, conducted from January 26 to February 18, 2026, involved Marines practicing various techniques, including counters to chokes and forward thrusts. 1st Lt. Alim Hicks, a ground supply officer with III MSB, demonstrated techniques to Marines during the training exercises.
According to the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS), MCMAP instructors focus on teaching Marines close combat techniques while simultaneously building physical conditioning to improve warfighting capabilities and mental fortitude.
Leadership and Participation
1st Lt. Alim Hicks, a native of California, played a key role in leading the training. Sgt. Julian Garcia, a native of Kansas and a financial management resource analyst with III MEF, participated in the training, receiving instruction from Lt. Hicks.
III MEF and Regional Security
III MEF consistently conducts training exercises to maintain readiness and responsiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. The MCMAP training is a vital component of this ongoing effort to ensure Marines are prepared for a wide range of contingencies.
Image Details
Images documenting the training were taken by Lance Cpl. John Haubeil of III MEF Information Group on January 25, 2026, and posted on February 1, 2026, and February 3, 2026, on DVIDS. The images are in the public domain and available for download.
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