ROCK CLIMBING NEWS ITEM

Local Climbing Gym, Popular Among the Marines

TUESDAY, 31 JULY 2007

Okinawa, Japan – Several members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are taking their time off getting their grip on the walls in a local indoor rock climbing gym.

Corporal Micah Hebert and Sgt. Ava Jones are some of the Marines, who climb the walls at the Okinawa Yamaacha Climbing Gym. “It’s a thrill and a great way to spend your free time,” said Jones. “I plan on doing this every weekend.” Hebert, whose love for climbing started two years ago, described climbing as a very challenging yet relaxing activity. “I find my Zen and feel at peace with my surroundings.”

Indoor rock climbing involves tackling walls under a controlled environment, thus, making is safer than outdoor climbing. This is also the reason why it is popular among members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit stationed in the island.

For more information, visit www.marines.mil .