Following AWS he returned to the operating force in 1987 until 1991, and was assigned as C Company Commander in 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. During this tour he deployed to Okinawa and later to the Republic of Panama in support of Freedom of Movement in the Canal Zone under Marine Forces Panama. He also served as the Regiment's Assistant Operations Officer and later as Commander of the UNITAS Rifle Company. Following his return from UNITAS he was sent to Incirlik, Turkey as a liaison officer in support of Provide Comfort.