USS Ashland Embarks Marines for Patrol

 Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 practice landing the MV-22B Osprey and taking off from the USS Ashland (LSD 48), during Cobra Gold 16 test flights at Utapao, Thailand. The MV-22B Osprey is a joint service multirole combat aircraft that is capable of moving troops or cargo at a high speed rate. Cobra Gold is designed to improve the quality of life and building on the commitment to bettering the Indo-Asia-Pacific. Marines are with VMM-262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jessica N. Etheridge/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kelsey L. Adams, Commander Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

SOUTH CHINA SEA (NNS) -- Sailors aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) embarked the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Jan. 28-29 for a patrol of the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

 During the onload, Ashland Sailors worked alongside the Marines to load vehicles and equipment necessary to conduct amphibious operations and participate in multinational exercises throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

 "Ashland is at its highest readiness to embark Marines," said Lt. Kyle Reckler, first lieutenant aboard Ashland. "The splash and recovery of the amphibious assault vessels (AAV) was a great example of positive flexing from both the Navy and Marine Corps to load the AAVs in a safe and efficient manner."

 While Ashland Sailors have been preparing for this patrol for the past few months aboard the ship, the 31st MEU has been busy training for the upcoming exercises on the shore.

 "The 31st MEU does a good job of making sure we understand our mission set and capabilities," said 1st Lt. Andrew Powell, the team embarkation officer for the 31st MEU. "When we are preparing for what we could possibly do across the range of military operations. The MEU conveys the message and gives realistic training to make sure we are mission ready."

 The blue-green team is currently en route to participate in exercise Cobra Gold (CG) 2016.

 CG is a Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint exercise designed to advance regional security by exercising a robust multinational force from nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

 Ashland is one of three ships that comprise the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and is scheduled to meet up with amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) at a later date.

USS Bonhomme Richard Offloads 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk

WHITE BEACH, Okinawa (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) offloaded Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) after conducting joint-force operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility, Sept. 25.

During the patrol Bonhomme Richard and the 31st MEU participated in Exercise Talisman Saber 2013 and Exercise Koolendong 2013 (EK 13) with their counterparts in the Royal Australian military.

"Working alongside our counterparts from the 31st MEU has been great," said USS Bonhomme Richard Commanding Officer Capt. Daniel Dusek. "During this patrol we were able to conduct valuable training with the MEU as well as our Australian allies."

This patrol also featured the first time the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, embarked as part of the ACE for their first forward-deployed patrol with Bonhomme Richard.

Bonhomme Richard ARG reports to Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley and is currently conducting joint force operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

Bonhomme Richard ARG, 31st MEU Kick Off Exercise Koolendong

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Edward Guttierrez III

DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived here Aug. 28 to participate in Exercise Koolendong 2013 (KD 13), a bilateral exercise taking place at the Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA) in Australia's Northern Territory.

KD13 will be conducted with the 5th Royal Australian Regiment and the Marine Rotational Force - Darwin to assess the future suitability of BFTA as a viable site for holding live-fire exercises for battalion-sized units of 1,000 personnel.

"Marine Corps forces currently stationed in Japan do not have access to a range complex that allows for the fire and maneuver of battalion sized elements," said Marine Capt. Michael Allen, Combat Cargo officer for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11. "This exercise is important because it validates BFTA as a live fire and maneuver range for those Marines as well as the Australian Defense Force."

The exercise plans to incorporate day and night live-fire operations including light and heavy machine guns, mortars, and artillery, as well as aviation ordnance to be delivered by AV-8B Harriers. MV-22 Ospreys, UH-1Y Hueys, and CH-53E Super Stallions embarked on forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) will provide assault troop transport and support from the sea.

"KD13 also allows the ARG/MEU to exercise their ability to execute a ship to shore to objective maneuver," said Allen, "showcasing the capability that amphibious forces have with regards to providing a rapid response to a contingency, a rapid buildup of combat power, and the ability to project that combat power over the horizon to achieve strategic and operational goals"
The Bonhomme Richard ARG, commanded by PHIBRON 11, is currently participating in Exercise Koolendong with the 31st MEU.

Bonhomme Richard ARG, 31st MEU Conduct VBSS Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Edward Guttierrez III, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk

CORAL SEA (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in partnership with Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conducted a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training evolution aboard USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8) Aug. 13.

"VBSS operations are another way in which we keep sea lanes open and safe for the flow of commercial traffic," said Lt. Bradford Tonder, operations officer for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11. "These operations aid in deterring and preventing illegal activity on the high seas."

VBSS operations emerged after the initial Gulf War as a measure to support continued maritime interdiction operations imposed by United Nations resolutions and to deter illegal activity. They are conducted by sending boarding teams to search a vessel of interest via rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) or helicopter. If the vessel is deemed to be conducting illegal activities, the boarding team can secure the vessel and crew if required.

Today's VBSS training covers areas such as tactical team movements, self-defense tactics, boarding tactics, and climbing and repelling techniques.

"In this part of the world, it's one of the biggest things we focus on. There are a lot of cargo ships and they're at high risk of being taken over by pirates. It's our job to be ready to repel that threat," said Cpl. Corey Thomas, infantry squad leader.

The VBSS training exercise was conducted as part of the 31st MEU's certification exercise (CERTEX). Due to the exercise framework, less than 48 hours notice was given to Bonhomme Richard, Denver and the 31st MEU to begin planning the boarding and seizure operation.

"Although we had only 48 hours from notice of the mission to execution... [it] required the same extensive and detailed planning to execute as the VBSS operations Navy ships routinely conduct," said Tonder.

VBSS operations require intricate pre-planning and execution as well as high-level integration between Navy and Marine on-scene leadership. The Marine Corps' elite VBSS force is the Maritime Raid Force (MRF). The MRF is vital to the Blue/Green team and uses the full spectrum of ARG/MEU support resources such as aircraft and small boats in order to successfully execute a particular mission.

"This operation was very successful," said Tonder. "This was the first time this particular Blue/Green team conducted this type of operation together. The team gelled quickly and planned and executed a safe and coordinated mission involving numerous air platforms originating from both Bonhomme Richard and Denver."

Thomas echoed that sentiment saying, "A lot goes into an operation like this, a lot of coordination with different elements. Whether it's the Aviation Combat Element (ACE), the Navy side, or Marine Force Recon team, I think the operation went extremely smoothly. There are always things to improve and tighten up in any mission, but overall I feel like things went extremely well."

Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard ARG, commanded by Capt. Cathal O'Connor, commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan.

Denver Executes Certification Exercise with 31st MEU

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl

USS DENVER, Coral Sea (NNS) -- While families prepare for back-to-school season and football fans prepare for their fantasy drafts, thousands of Sailors and Marines are conducting simulated combat rubber raiding craft (CRRC) beach assaults, night vision helicopter flight operations, and full scale amphibious raids.

Amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), the Navy's oldest deployable ship, and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are participating in certification exercise (CERTEX), with the rest of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), Aug. 4 to 13.

CERTEX, used to certify the 31st MEU in missions such as mechanized assaults, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, and non-combatant evacuation operations with the ARG, comes on the heels of exercise Talisman Saber 2013, a biennial exercise that enhances multilateral collaboration between U.S. and Australian forces for future combined operations.

Air assaults with UH-1Y Hueys and AH-1W Super Cobras, attached to the embarked Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265 (Reinforced), and beach assaults conducted with CRRCs and amphibious assault vehicles, highlight just some of Denver's abilities to support the 31st MEU's mission at all hours of the day.

"The ships, together with all the aircraft, all the amphibious crafts and all the Marines, are synchronizing (efforts) around the clock to put forces ashore to achieve objectives," said Lt. John R. Mateikat, Denver's operations officer.

In terms of air assaults, Denver also made history with her first recovery and launch of an MV-22 Osprey Aug. 8.

"We introduced the Marines' newest aircraft to the Navy's oldest deployable war ship," said Capt. Kevin P. Lenox, Denver's commanding officer.

The Osprey provided the crew of Denver with a new capability and gave the crew an opportunity for some additional training.

"It doesn't matter if it's your first landing or your hundredth, you always pick up something new," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Joshua B. Cary.

U.S. Navy and Marine forces take opportunities like CERTEX to cross-train with the Australian forces to improve overall combat readiness in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

"We learn from them too," said Denver's Command Master Chief Edwin Purdy. "We always take something back ourselves."

Denver is currently on patrol with the Bonhomme Richard ARG, commanded by Capt. Cathal O'Connor, commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan.

Bonhomme Richard ARG Conducts CERTEX

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jerome D. Johnson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk

CORAL SEA (NNS) -- Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) began Certification Exercise (CERTEX), Aug. 7.

CERTEX is an event focusing on the 31st MEU's capability of doing missions such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations or non-combatant evacuation operations with the ARG.

"Every MEU goes through a work up cycle prior to deployment which is usually conducted over months of training back in the states, and is culminated during their CERTEX before they deploy," said Cmdr. Kirk Knox, Bonhomme Richards' operations officer. "Even though the majority of the focus is on the MEU this is a team effort. The MEU cannot accomplish their tasks if we fail to provide them the support they need."

Bonhomme Richard ARG is made up of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), which is the command ship for Amphibious Squadron 11, as well as amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) and amphibious transport dock USS Denver (LPD 9).

Bonhomme Richard provides a platform at sea enabling the MEU to carry out visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercises and helicopter raids. The Marines of the MEU will also conduct a combat rubber raiding craft operations from the ship's well deck.

"We will launch, recover, and spot aircraft to support the 31st MEU during CERTEX," said Lt. John Zahodne, Bonhomme Richards' aircraft handler. "During this exercise we are required to operate at a higher operational tempo."

During CERTEX, Royal Australian Regiment officers, who are from an exchange program to develop officers, will observe the evolutions. In 2014 Australia will receive and deploy two of its own amphibious assault ships.

"The exchange program allows us gain experience from the U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy on how to conduct amphibious operations," said Maj. Alexander Rubin, Royal Australian Regiment 2nd Battalion detachment officer-in-charge. "We are invigorating our amphibious capability. The idea is to get ahead of the curb in developing our own program. We are grateful for this opportunity and hope that during the next Talisman Saber we can perform amphibious operations side-by-side with Bonhomme Richard."

The exercise will test the two forces' ability to execute several evolutions including small boat operations, helicopter and amphibious operations, mass casualty response drills and a non-combatant evacuation operation. Each of these evolutions involves transporting equipment and personnel to designated locations.

"At the end of the day, we are ultimately responsible for the safe movement of the 31st MEU's vehicles and cargo to and from the battle space," said Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Alvarez, Bonhomme Richards' 1st lieutenant. "While on deployment the landing craft air cushion element of Naval Beach Unit 7 integrates with Deck Department and Combat Cargo, as we share working spaces and combine our efforts to execute BHR's ship-to-shore mission."

The U.S. and Australia have a long established bilateral partnership which is an essential part of maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. Navy also contributes to the freedom of navigation in the territorial waters and airspace of coastal nations, which supports economic development and international commerce.

Commander Amphibious Squadron 11, 31st MEU and Bonhomme Richard ARG report to Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan.

Bonhomme Richard ARG Embarks 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Russell, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- More than 2,200 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) embarked aboard the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) at White Beach Naval Facility Aug. 20.

The 31st MEU embarked aboard the ARG to conduct amphibious operations in the Western Pacific aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and amphibious transport dock USS Denver (LPD 9).

"Bringing the Marines and Navy together to conduct this training is very benificial," said Cmdr. John Barnett, commanding officer of amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46). "We will deploy to various spots around the Western Pacific to do bilateral and multilateral training to help develop relationships with our counterpart navies and Marine Corps throughout the area of responsibility."

The MEU is comprised of a logistics combat element, an aviation combat element, command element and ground combat element.

Upon arrival of the 31st MEU aboard Bonhomme Richard ARG, all of the required assets needed to conduct amphibious assaults, raids, noncombatant evacuations and humanitarian assistance are in place.

Planning before an embarkation is crucial for both the Navy and the Marines.

"I think pre-planning is the most important part of an embarkation," said Lt. Douglas McIntosh, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11. "During an embarkation, there are thousands of individual moving parts that must be sequenced properly or the embarkation can go from a quick evolution to being very chaotic."

Some of the training evolutions that will take place aboard Bonhomme Richard, Tortuga and Denver include amphibious integration exercise (AIT), certification exercise (CERTEX) and amphibious landing exercise (PHIBLEX).

AIT is a training exercise designed to strengthen the MEU's amphibious assault capabilities. CERTEX is an exercise to test the Marines amphibious assault skills that they learned during AIT. PHIBLEX is an annual joint exercise conducted by the Navy and Marine Corps with the Republic of the Philippines navy and Marine Corps.

"Marines are definitely living up to their name," said Gunnery Sgt. Antonio Serrano, PHIBRON 11, combat cargo assistant. "Marines are supposed to fight from land, air and sea. Jointly, Marines and the U.S. Navy are able to execute amphibious operations via helicopters or landing craft to provide rapid response to any country."

The 31st MEU, ARG, PHIBRON 11 and Naval Beach Unit 7 all team up to create one of the most flexible forces in the Asia-Pacific, which is capable of accomplishing numerous missions anywhere in the world.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently operating in the 7th Fleet Area of Operation and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

Essex ARG Embarks 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Okinawa (NNS) -- Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) embarked more than 2,000 Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and departed White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan for the ARG's amphibious integration training (AIT), and certification exercise (CERTEX) March 4.

Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46), and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) worked hand-in-hand with the Marines to safely load personnel, equipment and vehicles in support of the upcoming training and exercise.

Throughout the AIT period, the MEU will conduct various ship-to-shore movements, day and night flight operations, and visit board search and seizure exercises.

"Embarking the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit allows our amphibious ships to train and prepare for a broad range of operational scenarios", said Capt. Bradley Lee, commodore, Amphibious Squadron 11.

The exercises will aid the ships of the ARG ships and their crews in remaining proficient in flight operations, well deck operations, ballasting, surface craft control, navigating close to shore and numerous deck evolutions, all of which the ARG and MEU must maintain proficiency in to support operational assignments in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

"Working with the MEU allows our Sailors and Marines to hone their interoperability and overall effectiveness at conducting the core capabilities of the nation's maritime strategy," said Lee.

AIT and CERTEX give the ARG and the MEU the opportunity to practice their skill sets in a combined and joint environment and are designed to increase both unit's effectiveness.

"It is always exciting working alongside our Navy counterparts," said Col. Andrew R. MacMannis, 31st MEU commanding officer. "The Navy and Marine Corps team have done an excellent job executing the loading plan of the ARG ships in a safe and timely manner. We can now move on to working together in order to successfully complete AIT and CERTEX."

AIT and CERTEX are important in assessing the ARG and MEU's ability to conduct operational maneuvering from sea to shore before supporting multilateral exercises, contingency operations, or humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

In order to conduct the exercise and various training evolutions, the ARG's combat cargo department had to load 2,500 tons of cargo, more than 120 vehicles, and 30 aircraft across the three ships.

Germantown Prepares for Amphibious Training Exercises

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Spencer Mickler, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) departed Okinawa, Japan Oct. 1, to commence a patrol of the Western Pacific region after embarking elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

Germantown will conduct amphibious integration training (AIT) exercises as part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) during the patrol.

"Our role in the ARG is to carry and operate with three landing craft air cushions (LCAC) and elements of the Command Logistics Battalion and Battalion Landing Team from the 31st MEU," said Cmdr. Jason Leach, Germantown executive officer.

Germantown gained its amphibious warfare certification while in port at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, allowing them to conduct amphibious operations during the patrol.

Throughout the AIT period, the MEU will conduct various raids, ship to shore movements via surface craft, flight operations and a visit, board, search and seizure exercise.

The Essex ARG will transport MEU elements ashore via LCAC, landing craft utility and amphibious assault vehicles.

"The crew has done an excellent job of preparing us for the underway period and their work has been astounding," said Leach. "They have made the command team extremely proud."

The Essex ARG consists of forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Germantown and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9).

The Essex ARG reports to Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. J. Scott Jones, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

Essex Embarks 31st MEU Aviation Combat Element

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Linda S. Swearingen, USS Essex Public Affairs

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) got underway to embark aircraft with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's (MEU's) Aviation Combat Element (ACE) Sept. 27.

The fly-on of the remaining aircraft from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 265 marks the final stage of the onload of the 31st MEU by Essex.

"It is great to have all the elements of the 31st MEU on board, including the ACE," said Capt. David Fluker, Essex commanding officer. "The ACE brings capabilities that are essential to performing a wide variety of missions, including support for full spectrum combat operations as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. I look forward to working with them as we conduct our patrol in this region."

Essex, together with amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) and amphibious transport dock USS Denver (LPD 9), will work with the MEU to conduct an amphibious certification exercise off the coast of Okinawa.

"This is the second fly-on for the ACE that I have been involved in," said Capt. Gary Windt, an AV-8B Harrier pilot with the legendary "Black Sheep" of Marine Attack Squadron 211. "The air department on board Essex allowed us to do our jobs. Whether it's refueling, moving aircraft on the flight deck or helping us move aircraft into the hangar bay, we are always working together to make sure everything is done right."

The ACE brings an extensive arsenal of attack, medium and heavy lift helicopters including AH-1Z Super Cobras, UH-1N Hueys, CH-53E Sea Stallions and CH-46E Sea Knights, as well as AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft.

As the U.S. Navy's only permanently forward deployed amphibious assault ship, Essex regularly works with the 31st MEU to conduct exercises and operations in the Western Pacific region. The ACE fly on allowed Sailors in Essex' air department, like Aviation Boatswain's Mate Airman Michael Williams, to use their skills outside of a training environment.

"My job is very critical because I take down the fuel state, which is how the amount of fuel being used is measured, and how many souls are on board the aircraft in the air," said Williams. "We have been working with the MEU every day, especially the Marine pilots. My job is a lot busier when the MEU is on board, because we are constantly taking stats and looking in the air to keep track of all the aircraft."

The 31st MEU is the only permanently forward-deployed MEU, maintaining a presence in the Pacific Ocean at all times as part of the III Marine Expeditionary Force, and is based out of Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan.

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward deployed Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

USS Essex Embarks 31st MEU

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Linda S. Swearingen, USS Essex Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- USS Essex (LHD 2) embarked more than 1,200 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Jan. 27-28, in preparation for a patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

During the on-load, the USS Essex Combat Cargo department loaded more than 100 vehicles and 300 pieces of equipment from the MEU's battalion landing team, ground combat element, aviation combat element and combat logistics battalion (CLB).

"The on-load is new for everyone on this crew," said Gunnery Sgt. Steven R. Jones, USS Essex senior combat cargo assistant. "We finished ahead of schedule, which is rare with a new crew. For a ship this size, it usually takes three days to load, but this time it took half the time."

Chief Warrant Officer Scott R. Allison, USS Essex combat cargo officer, also praised the efficient handling of the MEU on-load.

"It went smooth, actually pretty outstanding – one of the quickest on-loads the ship has done," he said.

"Combat cargo Marines come from multiple military occupation specialties and have only about 10 days of training," Jones said. "We have a good team. Everyone did what they were supposed to do."

While seasoned veterans comprise much of the MEU, the patrol will provide many Marines with their first taste of life aboard a Navy ship.

"I'm looking forward to the training exercises and seeing some of the different countries we're going to be visiting," said Lance Cpl. Dustin S. Delosh, 31st CLB.

The patrol will feature a series of maritime training exercises designed to build relationships and enhance operational readiness between U.S. and Western Pacific partner nations. Essex Sailors, along with the 31st MEU, will train with forces throughout the region.

Essex, commanded by Capt. David Fluker, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is underway in the Western Pacific region.

Essex Departs for Spring Patrol

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Sasebo, Japan, Jan. 20 for the ship's annual spring patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

The deployment will feature a series of bilateral, maritime training exercises designed to build relationships and enhance operational readiness between U.S. and Western Pacific partner nations.

"Operationally, I'm looking forward to working with other nations expanding our involvement with their navies," said Capt. Troy Hart, Essex's commanding officer. "It's always exciting and educational to operate with our allied navies, as well as getting our Marines ashore so they can operate with the ground forces of those countries."

Throughout spring patrol, Essex Sailors, along with Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), will train with forces throughout the region.

In addition to enhancing joint military efforts, these exercises will focus on humanitarian readiness, a responsibility many Essex Sailors take personally. Many, like Logistics Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Lourd Arthur Manabat, from Tarlac City, Republic of the Philippines, have family members living in the region.

"Being on Essex means that I could directly contribute to any humanitarian efforts we might need to do with countries like the Philippines," said Manabat. "I've had the opportunity to help out after a landslide before and it's a pretty eye-opening experience to see people that really need your help."

Should a natural disaster occur, Essex would use amphibious landing craft vehicles and an assortment of helicopters to deliver food, water and medical supplies to victims. Essex Sailors will work closely with military and civilians at various locations to improve bilateral efforts in the event of a major disaster, such as a typhoon or earthquake.

The Sailors of Essex's Deck Department would play a pivotal role in the overall effectiveness of a humanitarian relief effort. It is their job to launch and recover landing craft, air cushions and landing craft utility vehicles from the ship's well deck. Improving these skills will be their primary focus throughout spring patrol.

"We need to be ready to support the Essex mission, whatever the tasking may be," said Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW/AW) Braxter Brooks, 2nd Division leading chief petty officer. "For the Deck Department on USS Essex, failure is not an option."

In addition to preparing for unexpected catastrophes, Essex Sailors routinely take a proactive approach in assisting the local communities in the countries they visit, and spring patrol will be no exception. The Religious Ministries Department has scheduled community service projects in the region. Dozens of Sailors have already volunteered to assist with structural repairs and painting in Thailand, and the religious ministries team is currently planning additional projects in other countries.

"It's really important to do these kinds of projects because it's an opportunity for us to build a relationship with the people of the countries we visit," said Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Michael Brewer, who is helping to organize the projects.

While Essex Sailors will be busy with operational and volunteer commitments, spring patrol will not be all work. Sailors will have liberty in the region. For many, this will be their first time visiting countries in the region.

Essex is commanded by Capt. Troy Hart and is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Amphibious Ready Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Essex Embarks 31st MEU

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Taurean Alexander, USS Essex Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) onloaded more than 1,100 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Nov. 12 in preparation for Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 21G with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

The exercise is designed to improve both naval forces' capabilities for coordinated, bilateral operations in the defense of Japan. In particular, ANNUALEX 21G will focus on enhancing military-to-military relationships, improving command and control, air, undersea, and surface warfare.

"We always look forward to embarking the 31st MEU," said Capt. Troy Hart, Essex' commanding officer. "Their professionalism has always been a major factor to our success working together and this is another chance for us to build on that success."

The 31st MEU consists of ground, command, air and combat support elements that allow the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESXARG) to conduct amphibious operations from the sea and project power ashore.

During the onload, Essex' Combat Cargo Department moved approximately 90 vehicles and 250 pieces of MEU cargo. Additionally, they helped move elements of the Battalion Landing Team (BLT), Ground Combat Element, Aviation Combat Element (ACE) and Combat Logistics Battalion. The arsenal includes CH-53E Sea Stallion, CH-46E Sea Knight, AH-1W Super Cobra and UH-1N Huey helicopters, as well as AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft.

"This deployment is a great opportunity for our Marines to play a part in ANNUALEX," said Gunnery Sgt. Jorge Jerez, Combat Cargo assistant. "I'm sure everyone is excited to be a part of the great relationship we have with the JMSDF."

For many of the Marines, this will be their first opportunity to participate in the Exercise.

"I'm not really sure what to expect," said Lance Cpl. Dalton Kuegn, of Tyler, Texas. "It should be a pretty cool experience just to be at sea. Being at sea during an exercise like this should also be a learning experience for a lot of the guys who are in the same situation that I'm in."

Essex is commanded by Capt. Troy Hart and is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Amphibious Ready Group and serves as the flagship for Commander Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Essex Embarks 31st MEU, Prepares for Talisman Saber

USS Essex (LHD 2), USS Denver (LPD 9) and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) wait pierside at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan while the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit loads gear and personnel before deploying for Talisman Sabre 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Denver Applehans/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew Ebarb

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed on loading more than 1,400 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) June 15 in preparation for exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09).

TS09 is a bilateral command post and field training exercise designed to maintain a high level of interoperability between U.S. and Australian forces. The exercise also supports increased flexibility and readiness for maintaining regional security.

"As always, we're looking forward to having the 31st MEU on board again," said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex' commanding officer. "We've had an excellent operational record with them in the past, and we look forward to continuing that success."

The 31st MEU consists of ground, command, air and combat support elements that allow the Essex Amphibious Ready Group to conduct amphibious operations from the sea and project power ashore.

Essex' combat cargo department moved approximately 90 vehicles and 250 pieces of MEU cargo. Additionally, they helped move elements of the battalion landing team, the ground combat element, aviation combat element and combat logistics battalion. The arsenal includes CH-53E Sea Stallion, CH-46E Sea Hawk, AH-1W Super Cobra and UH-1N Huey helicopters, as well as AV-8B Harrier jet aircrafts.

"We're looking forward to the experience of working with the Australian military," said Gunnery Sgt. Jorge Jerez, well deck combat cargo assistant. "We have put a lot of work into getting the equipment on board and making sure that it's ready for the upcoming Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) evaluation."

AQIS is the Australian government agency responsible for enforcing Australian quarantine laws. Essex will coordinate with AQIS to ensure the safety of Essex' crew, Australian exercise participants and Australian citizens.

"Working with the Australian's offers something new for us," said Pfc. Marcus Clark, from Spokane, Wash. "This isn't something we get to do every day, and I think the experience will allow us to learn from one another and grow."

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. amphibious ready group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Essex Debarks 31st MEU After Successful Spring Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Taurean Alexander, USS Essex Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Okinawa, Japan, to debark the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) May 5.

The offload began early May 4 with the fly-off of the 31st MEU's Aviation Combat Element (ACE), during which 31st MEU and Essex Combat Cargo Marines offloaded all ACE aircraft, to include CH-53E Sea Stallion, CH-46E Sea Knight, AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1 Huey helicopters.

The offload continued as Essex' combat cargo department moved approximately 75 vehicles and 300 pieces of MEU cargo. They also coordinated the offload of personnel from elements of the battalion landing team (BLT), the ground combat element and combat logistics battalion, capping off a successful Balikatan 09 (BK09).

"I couldn't be more proud of the performance of the Essex Sailors during BK09," said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex' commanding officer.

"This exercise was different in that the ship spent more time pierside in Subic Bay than we normally have in the past. This enabled us to not only conduct our bilateral training with the Philippine Navy but to also get some maintenance and preservation work accomplished. The crew met every challenge and performed brilliantly, both on the job, whether at sea or inport, and on liberty."

Sailors and Marines worked together throughout the deployment as they participated in a series of Republic of the Philippines-U.S. bilateral military humanitarian assistance and training exercises, which took place at various locations throughout the Philippines April 16-30.

For Marines like Lance Cpl. Rony Classen, from Chicago, the experience was priceless.

"This is my second time on board Essex, and the training continues to be great," Classen said. "I'm still learning new things about the Navy side, and the friendships that we build are awesome."

According to Boatswain's Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Samuel Vontress, the kind of integrated training Sailors and Marines took part in during BK09 is critical to mission readiness.

"This training we do is important because we need our guys to be prepared when a real scenario presents itself," said Vontress. "You never know when you'll be called upon to do this stuff for real, and maintaining a high level of readiness is paramount."

Classen, an infantryman with the 31st MEU agreed.

"It's our job to make sure communications with the Sailors and the Marines go well, and we're just doing our part to accomplish the mission," said Classen. "Training is a big part of making sure we know how to do our job and making sure they have what they need."

Sailors and Marines also enjoyed liberty together in Subic Bay. Deployments like BK09 provide an excellent opportunity to experience the unique culture of many locations, said Classen.

"The Philippines was fun this time around," he said. "Any time you get a chance to experience a different culture is a plus."

The 31st MEU is the only permanently forward-deployed MEU, maintaining a presence in the Pacific Ocean at all times as part of III Marine Expeditionary Force and is based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan.

Essex is commanded by Capt. Brent Canady and is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. amphibious ready group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.