AL ASAD, Iraq -- It seems like a new project is underway on every other corner of what has come to be known as mainside Al Asad. However obscure as it may seem, improvements to living and working conditions in a combat zone are a few ways to make life easier.
A dining facility, religious chapel and exchange are a few examples current construction projects underway.
The current dining facility is a small building that has already expanded once, but is still very cramped. The new facility will be capable of serving the growing number of service members and civilian contractors stationed here. Once completed, it will have more space to make people comfortable while enjoying a break from the daily grind.
Although many of the projects are still being worked on, service members throughout the base are excited about the new facilities.
"I am looking forward to the new chow hall," said Sgt. Israel I. Soriano, warehouse clerk, Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. "It being bigger will help reduce the waiting, which will give us more time to complete our mission."
With the challenges of a hot desert climate and stresses of the combat environment, service members need a place to wind down. For some, this place is the chapel.
According to Navy religious programs Chief Petty Officer Warren S. Dodson, chaplain, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd MAW, recent religious services have been held in the Morale, Welfare and Recreation building. With the addition of a new chapel, on base services will no longer be interrupted or cut short due to time restraints.
"I like the improvements going on here," said Cpl. Gaylen E. Marsh, supply administration and operations clerk, MWHS-3. "It makes living in Iraq easier and it helps make the time go by faster."