Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz completed their first community relations project of the year, focusing on environmental preservation and the upkeep of notable Marine Corps historical sites across the island of Guam.

Titled “Marines in the Wild,” the community outreach initiative involved debris collection, monument repainting, and general landscaping. 

The effort spanned across Guam, from the southernmost site in Agat, to the northernmost in the installation’s sister village of Dededo. Sites included the monument honoring Brig. Gen. L. G. Shepard and the USMC Provisional Marine Brigade, the Marine 5th Fleet Service Depot monument, the Marine Corps Obelisk and Monument in Hagåtña, and the Camp Blaz community bus stop in Dededo.

The “Marines in the Wild” initiative is part of a larger command focus on environmental stewardship, mirroring preservation projects underway on Camp Blaz. For example, the installation’s live-fire training range features a natural filtration system using sand, gravel, dirt, and limestone to filter potential pollutants from ammunition from contaminating the environment. 

Similarly, the paint removal, debris collection, and grounds maintenance performed during this COMREL project contribute to preserving Guam’s environment while honoring the island's history.

“This year’s COMREL efforts are designed to highlight the parallels between the projects at Camp Blaz, and the outreach work Marines accomplish in the community,” said Maj. Mark Crum, COMREL director, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz. “By preserving both our local environment and our historic landmarks, we reinforce our commitment to Guam and its people.”

Looking ahead, Camp Blaz Marines will participate in its first sister school event of the year under the Joint Region Marianas Sister School, Sister Village program. This project is the first of several community engagements planned for 2026, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the base and the people of Guam.