October 26, 2017 | Subscribe to win at mccsokinawa.com/spotlight
Christmas in Boracay
From top to bottom: ingimage, Thomas Alan Smilie
Happy 242nd Birthday Marines!
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t’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…well, maybe not. But just because it never snows on Okinawa doesn’t mean the holiday season isn’t approaching at breakneck speed. This year, how about a truly memorable experience for that special someone? One of the best gifts that someone can receive is a break from the weekly grind; an escape from their tired routines and stressfilled days. This year, give them the gift of paradise—a Christmas in beautiful Boracay. Boracay is a tiny islet in the Philippines off the northwest tip of Panay Island in the Western Visayas. Far from the hustle and bustle of the capital city of Manila (315 kilometers south), Boracay is known worldwide as a travel destination for relaxation. With average December temperatures ranging from lows of 28C (82F) and highs of 31C (88F), Boracay is the perfect place to bask in the sun and forget winter alto-
inside
gether. The only reminder of snow that visitors will find on this idyllic islet is the powdery sand on its beaches. Leisure activities on Boracay include snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, golf and more. The island also features a lively nightlife with a wide range of restaurants, bars, pubs and nightclubs. The Tours+ Christmas in Boracay Tour runs December 20–26. The tour price for adults is $1,955 (twin/ double occupancy) and $1,875 for triple occupancy. The single supplement charge is $475. Children 3–11 can enjoy this tour for $1,685 with one adult and $1,605 with two adults. Children 0–2 are $700 with no airline seat and no meals. Time is running out; register for this tour by November 1 at your nearest MCCS Tours+ Center! Visit MCCS Tours+ online at mccsokinawa.com/tours.
Happy 242nd Birthday Marines! | 1 & 3 ActSeven | 3 Shuri Castle and Dancing Lion Dogs | 5 Japanese Phrase of the Week | 5
Although celebrated informally, it's widely believed that the first official Marine Corps “birthday ball” was held in 1925 in Philadelphia. This event was attended by well-known national leaders, representatives from all military services, the Secretary of the Navy and the 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps General John A. Lejeune. The celebration of the Marine Corps Birthday was formalized throughout the Corps on October 28, 1952 by direction of the 20th Commandant of the Marine Corps Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr. The traditions detailed in the Marine Corps Drill Manual, approved by General Sheperd, are still carried on in Marine Corps Birthday Balls held throughout the United States today, as well as on Okinawa at MCCS clubs. (cont. on page 3)
A Different Buffet Every Day | 7 Taiyo Turkey Shoot | 9 MCCS Tours+ | 11 Semper Fit Events | 11