Marine Corps Implements Correction Custody Unit Pilot Program
10 May 2018

Officials at Marine Corps Installations Pacific (MCIPAC) have developed a new and improved Correctional Custody Unit pilot program, called "CCU 2.0”, which will be implemented this month aboard Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan. 


This test program affords Marines who have committed minor offenses, inconsistent with the high standards of the United States Marine Corps, a way to get back on track and sustain the transformation that starts when individuals enter training to become a United States Marine. With a dedicated staff who are eager to guide and mentor, CCU 2.0 will provide Marines the opportunity to navigate back to true north in order to serve as productive teammates, make better personal and professional life decisions, and successfully complete their initial enlistment. 

Sgt. Dustin Owens, a senior watch stander for the unit, accurately explains the goal of CCU 2.0. "Our primary job is mentorship, and [that is] where all of my efforts will be focused for 30 days. I'm going to accept them like they are my Marines, because for that 30-day period - they are. I am going to have a vested interest in their future success." 

"For me, it won't end after 30 days. I'm invested in their development, said Sgt. Julien "Von" Vondickersohn, a second senior watch stander for the unit. "If they reach out to me later in life because they need help, I'll drive wherever, whenever, to be there for them. My [Marines] will get my full 100 percent." 

The individual Marine is the Corps' most valued resource. When some fall short of our core values and expectations, leaders may determine if a Marine deserves a second chance. CCU 2.0 provides that opportunity, and offers courses that re-emphasize the Marine Corps' ethos, ideals and values that Marines learn in basic training. These classes employ modern learning concepts which enable CCU participants to make positive and sustainable behavior change so that they may complete their enlistments.

 A notable difference in CCU 2.0 is that the rock-breaking exercise, for which the original Correctional Custody Unit was known, will not be done. Instead, the physical fitness program features field training exercises and combat conditioning regularly conducted by Marine units on a daily basis. 

"This new curriculum is designed to re-instill the values and high standards of the Marine Corps back into each Marine," said Brig. Gen. Paul J. Rock Jr., commanding general, MCIPAC. "I look forward to seeing the results of this program as it rebuilds our most valued asset, the Marine." 

For more information on CCU 2.0 and its curriculum, please contact the Marine Corps Installations Pacific Communication Strategy and Operations Office at: PAOMedia.MCBB.FCT@usmc.mil.


Marine Corps Installations Pacific Communication Strategy and Operations Office

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