Jones and McMichael then visited Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors aboard the amphibious-assault ship USS Belleau Wood during exercises off Okinawa. Despite the sweltering heat, Jones and McMichael tirelessly addressed large and small groups of Marines at mess halls, clubs, and theaters, and in machine shops, office spaces, and training areas. When possible, they plunged into the crowd to shake hands, answer questions, and pose for photographs. The pair was warmly received at every stop. They also visited Marine Security Guards at the U.S. embassies in Tokyo and Seoul, and flew two hours to meet 500 Marines in Pohang, Korea.
Good things happen to people in good units.
Frequently donning his diplomatic hat, Jones met with two U.S. ambassadors, the Japanese foreign minister, and other high-level foreign and U.S. military officials. He also reaffirmed the Corps' warm bond with the commandant of the South Korean Marine Corps. Jones was impressed with the quality of life his Marines enjoy in facilities built at Japanese expense at both Iwakuni and Okinawa. However, the relocation of the Corps' air station at Futenma remains an unresolved issue. The day before, Jones flew over the prospective relocation sites for the station.