United States Forces Japan
He graduated in July 1960 and departed for Japan, where he joined the headquarters, United States Forces Japan in Tokyo as deputy assistant chief of staff for operations (G-3) and remained in this capacity until September 1962. Gayle was then sent to Okinawa as commanding officer, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. Gayle was transferred to the divisional staff in February 1963 and assumed duty as division's chief of staff under Major General Henry W. Buse Jr.