Makin Island, Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Groups Turnover Duties

USS MAKIN ISLAND, Gulf of Aden (NNS) -- The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) were relieved of their duties in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) by the Iwo Jima ARG and the 24th MEU, May 5.

The Makin Island ARG deployed Nov. 14, 2011 and conducted maritime security operations, theater security cooperation engagements, and multiple bilateral military exercises with regional partners within the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.

"I could not be more pleased with the hard work and dedication from every Sailor and Marine," said U.S. Navy Capt. Donald R. Cuddington, commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) Five. "Each individual's outstanding professionalism and dedication to their training during our pre-deployment phase and through this deployment contributed greatly and was the key to the overall success of the Makin Island ARG and 11th MEU team."

Following the turnover, Makin Island ARG will depart the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR and return to their homeport of San Diego.

"As I look back, every ship had some challenges either before or during this deployment; however, each ship met every challenge or every mission with great commitment and determination to succeed," said Cuddington. "I would say the key to our success was, that the blue-green team always focused on the mission first. It was never a blue mission or a green mission. It was our mission."

The Makin Island ARG is comprised of PHIBRON Five, with detachments from Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 11, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 and ACU 5.

The ships that make up the Makin Island ARG are San Diego-based amphibious assault ship Makin Island, amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52).

The 11th MEU major subordinate elements consist of Battalion Landing Team 3/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (VMM) 268 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 11.

"The 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit has completed every task and exceeded expectations in supporting both U.S. Central Command and U.S. Navy Forces Central Command as a forward deployed Marine air-ground task force," said Col. Michael Hudson, 11th MEU's commanding officer. "The Marines and Sailors have continuously demonstrated the flexibility and adaptability of the Navy and Marine Corps team as they hit every pitch. This journey started over a year ago, during pre-deployment training and we leave here now proud of what we have accomplished.

"As we begin our voyage home to our friends and families in Southern California, we know that the 24th MEU, who is relieving us, is well led, trained and ready to take the next watch as America's forward deployed force," Hudson added.

The Iwo Jima ARG includes PHIBRON Eight, with detachments from TACRON 21, FST 4, HSC 22, BMU 2, ACU 2 and ACU 4. ARG ships include Norfolk-based amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story-based amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

This is the maiden deployment for USS New York (LPD 21), built with seven-and-a-half tons of steel from the World Trade Center, symbolizing sacrifice while having the watch being forward deployed.

"We've been working hard to prepare for our new duties in our new theatre, as we recently completed exercise African Lion off the coast of Morocco shortly after departing for deployment, and we are looking forward to getting work done in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR," said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark H. Scovill, commodore, PHIBRON Eight.

Embarked with the Iwo Jima ARG is the 24th MEU, a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force, comprised of major subordinate elements: Battalion Landing Team 1/2, VMM-261 (Reinforced) and CLB-24.

"The 24th MEU is manned, trained, equipped and ready to serve as U.S. 5th Fleet's forward deployed crisis response force," said Col. Frank Donovan, commanding officer, 24th MEU. "Teamed with our great Navy partners aboard the amphibious ships of PHIBRON Eight, we make a truly flexible, adaptable, decisive, and when required, lethal Navy and Marine Corps expeditionary force. We stand ready to take over for 11th MEU/PHIBRON Five and continue the superior work they have done across the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR. We wish them fair winds and following seas as they begin their transit home."

The Iwo Jima and embarked 24th MEU will provide support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.

Iwo Jima ARG, 24th MEU Complete Strait of Gibraltar Transit

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jamica Johnson, Amphibious Squadron 8 Public Affairs

STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR (NNS) -- The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed their transit of the Strait of Gibraltar, April 24.

The Iwo Jima ARG, transiting the Strait of Gibraltar, includes Amphibious Squadron 8 (PHIBRON), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) and USS New York (LPD 21).

The Strait of Gibraltar is the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean and is significant because it is the second busiest waterway in the world and one of five major choke points. The others include Strait of Malacca, Strait of Hormuz, Panama Canal and Suez Canal. New York, on her maiden deployment, now joins the ranks of many other historical ships that have navigated the Strait of Gibraltar, marking the first time she has officially entered the Mediterranean.

"The Strait transit is symbolic because it shows we aren't in the Atlantic any longer," said Cmdr. William C. Herrmann, New York's commanding officer. "Everyone on board is a little saltier now, for many, seeing the Rock of Gibraltar is something they will always remember."

"The historical relevance for our transit is quite significant," said Capt. Mark Scovill, commodore of the Iwo Jima ARG. "It not only shows the transition from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, the evolution from not salty to salty Sailors, but it bridges a gap of time between us and history. So many have passed through these straits for example, Commodore Bainbridge and Lt. Decatur during our war with the Barbary pirates."

As well as being the first transit for the New York, for a lot of Sailors in the ARG, the experience is new as well.

"Before coming in the Navy, I would always hear the term 'join the Navy, see the world,' now going through the straits and being able to say I was a part of the Iwo Jima 2012 deployment is surreal and an honor," said Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Antonio Gagliardo, a Sailor aboard Iwo Jima.

To prepare for the two hour evolution, the ship's navigation department must plan the entire trip with exact precision, taking several elements into account.

"The first thing we do in preparation for this is take a look at the charts. We make sure in advance that we understand all the symbols, the weather and climatology. We then lay the track and come up with a speed and a plan for the transit," said Lt. Cmdr. Mark MacNamara, Iwo Jima's navigator. "In total, prior to the evolution, it takes 10 to 12 hours to prepare."

When executing special sea-and-anchor and navigational evolutions, the safe transit of the ship and her crew is a vital element in the planning process.

"Because we were passing through such a major choke point, the ships and the MEU combined forces to execute the protective stance known as Defense of the Amphibious Task Force (DATF)," said Scovill. "Although it was not a high threat level area, we prepared as such, so if there comes a day when we need to be at a higher alert level, we've already sharpened that skill set."

The level of readiness for a Navy ship transiting the Strait of Gibraltar could not be more secure if not for the presence of the Marine Corps.

"Transiting the Straits of Gibraltar aboard a U.S. Navy warship is a special honor for Marines," said Commanding Officer of the 24th MEU, Col. Frank Donovan, embarked aboard Iwo Jima. "We were founded in 1775 to operate aboard the ships of the Continental Navy. Our forefathers sailed through these Straits toward sea and land battles against the British, French and the Barbary pirates. Then, like today, the Navy and Marine Corps team was instrumental in protecting America's overseas interests and keeping the world's shipping lanes open for commerce."

The Gunston Hall was also in a ready-state for any type of action she may have encountered during her transit.

"The entire Navy and Marine Corps team aboard Gunston Hall did a fabulous job during the Strait of Gibraltar transit," said Gunston Hall's Commanding Officer Capt. Andy J. Loiselle.

"We were impressed with the professional mariners we encountered and were ready to respond to any contingency that occurred. The crew got to see some amazing sights and very much looks forward to a closer view on our return to homeport."

Now in Mediterranean waters, the Iwo Jima ARG/ 24th MEU team assumes the watch, of keeping the waterways safe, acting as responsible ambassadors ashore and promoting a global force for good.

"We are in Sixth Fleet now," said Capt. Grady Banister, Iwo Jima's commanding officer. "We've worked together, done the training and our Blue/Green team is prepared and on standby to carryout any mission we are tasked with."

The Iwo Jima ARG with the embarked 24th MEU is currently deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Iwo Jima ARG, 24th MEU Complete African Lion

Three landing craft air cushion (LCAC) assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 operate in the coastal waters of Agadir, Morocco while deployed with the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). The Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group is deployed and participating in Exercise African Lion 2012, a bilateral exercise between U.S. and Moroccan forces, in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Heather W. Hines/Released)

By Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Jamica Johnson, Amphibious Squadron 8 Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)in conjunction with the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG completed joint and bilateral exercise CJCS Exercise African Lion 2012, April 17.

The exercise between the Kingdom of Morocco and the U.S. military services served as integrated field training for the ARG/MEU team, prior to arriving at their operational station for deployment 2012.

"This exercise gave us a chance to do a couple of things," said Col. Frank Donovan, 24th MEU commanding officer. "We set sail on deployment across the Atlantic, straight into a large scale exercise where we were able to hone our abilities of ship-to-shore, ship-to-objective maneuvering, air and surface operations with the blue-green team, doing bi-lateral operations with the Moroccans, in turn, developing partners and allied relationships. It was a great way to start a deployment."

The Joint Task Force (JTF), led by Marine Forces Africa (MARFORAF), were designated as JTF-MOROCCO and a Task Force (TF) led by 14th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division were designated as TF-African Lion, giving the exercise great historical and operational importance, being one of the first times an ARG/MEU team has been carried out as an all land based operation.

"This year's exercise was unique in two ways," said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Fabrizio, PHIBRON 8's operations officer. "First, Morocco was one of the first countries to acknowledge American independence when initially becoming a country, so we have had long historical ties with them. The importance of the IWO ARG /24 MEU team's participation in African Lion is that, in previous years, the exercise participants were all land based. This was the first year when a sea based MEU, operating from an ARG at sea, participated in the exercise."

The preparation for the large scale bi-national exercise was concurrent with the ARG/MEU team's work up cycle for deployment. It took various levels of planning and acute attention to detail. Some planners from PHIBRON 8 and 24th MEU met with planning teams in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility as early as Aug. 2011.

"It took a lot of rapid planning and planning adjustments to be able to take advantage of opportunities to operate in a very foreign environment," said Donovan. "To prove that the skill-set we have does work and at the end we were able to meet, train with and establish a relationship with our partners, the armed forces of Morocco was an amazing opportunity."

In order to accomplish missions of the 24th MEU, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and USS New York (LPD 21)executed a combined total of 38 ship-to-shore movements. This included 24 landing craft air cushion (LCAC's) movements and 14 amphibious assault vehicle (AAV's) landings in order to transport the Marines and their equipment. Also, 51 vehicles were moved ashore aboard the LCACs for the Marines to accomplish their mission in the exercise.

Along with the sense of achievement and accomplishment in the air, is the weighted and despondent feeling in the hearts of many on board.

"I think the ARG/MEU team did a great job. It was a great balance of what we trained for," said Donovan. "We were able to pick up where we left off in our pre-deployment training and continue on. The tough part is, obviously, we had a crash during the exercise and you can't go without always thinking about the families and condolences, thoughts and prayers that we need to continue for them back home."

"I do not think you can overstate how important our relationship with Morocco is to our national security," said Capt. Mark H. Scovill, commander of Iwo Jima ARG. "This is a key ally, and we need to prove we are inter-operable with them, especially in view of their strategic location."

The Straits of Gibraltar, separating the Kingdom of Morocco and Spain, is 7.7 nautical miles wide and thousands of merchant and U.S. Navy ships pass through annually. This location is of the utmost strategic importance in the region for the freedom, safety and security of world-wide merchant shipping and U.S. Navy ships transiting.


The ARG/MEU team set aside time during the operation to honor and grieve their fallen brothers-in-arms, assuring each other that although the mission would go on, their memory would be celebrated and not forgotten.

"Losing men makes it very hard to think about how dangerous this job is," said Donovan. "It also provides us an opportunity to step back and say, are we focused and diligent enough, while doing my job on the daily basis to ensure the best chance for success and safety during the mission? It shows how every single day we must show incredible levels of courage, honor strength and skill, in every task."

By the conclusion of African Lion, more than 87 bi-lateral training events and demonstrations had been achieved with the Royal Moroccan and U.S. military. In total, more than 345 flight hours had been logged. For both surface and air movements, more than 70 people had been transported with more than 600 items, totaling more than 45,000 pounds between the shore and ships, including food and parts for aircraft, ships and vehicles.

"This was a great way to warm up before a long deployment. It was very successful and very rewarding in a lot of cases," said Donovan.

The Iwo Jima ARG with the embarked 24th MEU is currently deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Iwo Jima ARG Enters 6th Fleet, a First for USS New York

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jamica Johnson, Amphibious Squadron 8 Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) entered U.S. 6th Fleet's Area of Responsibility (AOR) April 4.

The day is a major milestone, as it is the maiden deployment for the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), as well as the long awaited return from both multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) and amphibious dock-landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), the triad of warships that make up the Iwo Jima ARG.

While in the area, the Iwo Jima ARG is mission capable to assist in a full range of maritime security operations, provide crisis response capability, increase theater security cooperation and provide forward naval presence in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

"Chopping into 6th Fleet is a normal progression for our deployment, said Capt. Andrew J. Loiselle, commanding officer USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). "During our time here, we will be in support of both EUCOM and AFRICOM and will participate in exercise African Lion with Morocco. We have spent a long time during work-ups preparing for any contingency that may arise while we are in the 6th Fleet AOR. The team is ready."

The process for becoming not just deployment ready, but becoming a commissioned U.S. vessel and learning to act as a cohesive team was a challenge for the New York, but they took it in stride.

"Both material wise and training wise with a very junior crew with not a whole lot of real world experience or anything to go on," said Cmdr. William C. Herrmann, commanding officer of USS New York (LPD 21), "we've managed to go through the intermediate training phase nearly flawlessly. We've excelled at just about every warfare area that was given to us. We've accomplished every task given and that's a testament to the desire, New York never fails and that is on the deck plates. That's the deck plate Sailors who are making that happen."

Along with the pressures of being a warship on its first deployment, New York has the honor of being a symbol of the American people's strength, resilience and fortitude, while being a global force for good.

"You can't have a story about the New York without talking about the steel that's in the stem, and how integral that is to the ship and the way we conduct our mission," Herrmann said. "It's almost palpable when you step on this ship, you can feel something different about the New York. Realizing that the New York is what the New York is and that the steel in the stem represents so much to so many people."

As with any Navy evolution, exercise or mission, safety is of the utmost importance, the Iwo Jima ARG plans to exemplify that while carrying out the Navy's mission. "As we go over to areas of the world where they don't necessarily like us means we have to be more vigilant," said Herrmann. "To be more prepared for anything to happen and be on the look out to ensure this ship stays safe, that this ship accomplishes the missions it's tasked with," said Herrmann.

Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Deploy

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Scott Youngblood, PHIBRON 8 Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines from the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (IWO ARG) and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) departed for deployment from Norfolk and Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 27.

The team got underway as part of a regularly scheduled deployment to support Maritime Security Operations, provide crisis response capability, increase theater security cooperation and provide forward naval presence in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

The IWO JIMA ARG/24 MEU is comprised of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8, multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44); Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment (BLT 1/2); Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 (Reinforced); Logistics Combat Element, Combat Logistics Battalion 24.

In preparation for deployment, the IWO JIMA ARG/24 MEU underwent a six-month work up cycle that included successful completion of an Amphibious Squadron/Marine expeditionary unit integration (PMINT), a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) and a certification exercise (CERTEX).

"Due to around-the-clock training and an aggressive work up schedule, we have no doubt in our minds that we are ready and capable for the missions ahead," said Commander PHIBRON 8, Capt. Mark H. Scovill.

The IWO ARG/24 MEU provides the combatant commander a versatile sea-based force that can be tailored to a variety of missions, including quick reaction crisis response options in maritime, littoral and inland environments in support of U.S. policy.

"We are extremely proud of the seamless integration of Sailors and Marines and their above-and-beyond performance for the certifications preparing the ship for deployment," said Commanding Officer USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Capt. Grady T. Banister.

As the ARG/MEU team sails toward the eastern horizon, the blue-green unit focuses its sights on defending our Nation and prevailing in the face of adversity with strength, determination and dignity.

"My expectation for the ARG/MEU team during deployment is to work together like we trained to complete any and all missions," said Deputy Commander PHIBRON 8, Capt. Arturo M. Garcia.

Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, 24th Marine Expeditionary to Deploy

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines from the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (IWO ARG) and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) will deploy from Norfolk and Camp Lejeune, N.C., March 27.

The deployment is part of a regular rotation of forces to support maritime security operations, provide crisis response capability, and increase theater security cooperation and forward naval presence in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

The IWO ARG is commanded by Capt. Mark H. Scovill, Commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8, and is comprised of multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) and amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21), both homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, and amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) homeported at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Va.

The 24th MEU is commanded by Col. Francis L. Donovan and is comprised of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, which includes a Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment; Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 (Reinforced); Logistics Combat Element, Combat Logistics Battalion 24; and its Command Element.

Iwo Jima ARG Completes COMPTUEX

By Lt. Megan M. Shutka, PHIBRON 8 Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) successfully completed Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) Dec. 21, moving one step closer to being certified and better prepared for deployment.

The Iwo Jima ARG consists of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8 and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

"COMPTUEX was a challenging operating environment that tested us," said Captain Mark H. Scovill, the commodore of PHIBRON 8. "We are thankful for the enormous investment tax payers have given for our training. No other Navy has invested as much in its Sailors and its deployers than the U.S. Navy. There's no one out working harder than the 24 MEU PHIBRON 8 team so the results were completely predictable. This blue-green team is ready for CERTEX and any other challenge."

COMPTUEX was meant to test the 24th MEU and PHIBRON 8 aboard all three ships in conducting various missions they could face while deployed. The exercise focused on building cohesion between the 24th MEU and PHIBRON 8 in conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations while operating from the sea.

"To conclude COMPTUEX with an amphibious assault is a great way to highlight the bond with PHIBRON 8 and the MEU," said Col. Frank Donovan, commanding officer of 24th MEU. "COMPTUEX was to prove and test and challenge our 'mechanics' of ship to objective maneuver. COMPTUEX provided more than expected challenges. I walk away with great appreciation for the leadership of PHIBRON 8, the three great ships and appreciation for adaptable, flexible and combat power the ARG/MEU team can deliver from the sea on time and on target."

The Iwo Jima ARG executed more than 100 training evolutions to include air defense; counter targeting; live fire; low, slow flier exercises; and maritime security operations from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21. Including the Iwo Jima ARG, 16 Navy vessels set the stage for COMPTUEX's intense simulated deployed training environment, including four Canadian navy vessels, over the course of three weeks.

COMPTUEX is a requirement for certification for deployment, testing multiple abilities across the ships. The exercise is designed to train the ship, embarked air wing and other units that make up the ARG to function as one highly effective fighting force. Evaluators from Commander Strike Force Training Atlantic ensured the ARG's units were exercised in all warfare areas.

"During COMPTUEX, it is vitally important to challenge the training audience for deployment," said Rear Adm. Dennis E. FitzPatrick, commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic, who was embarked aboard Iwo Jima for the exercise. "This exercise is designed to teach you the skill sets which you need to be successful and accomplish your mission on deployment. The ARG MEU team did very well and should be very proud. It was an integrated complex exercise."

The Iwo Jima ARG's upcoming schedule includes Certification Exercise (CERTEX) and Bold Alligator shortly after the New Year, with a scheduled deployment in Spring 2012.

USS Iwo Jima Returns From Successful COMPTUEX

A landing craft air cushion passing the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise in preparation for an upcoming deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lauren G. Randall/Released)

By By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Travis J. Kuykendall, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, Norfolk (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) returned home Dec. 21 after wrapping up composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX).

COMPTUEX is the second of three integration-based trainings between the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which consists of USS Iwo Jima, amphibious dock-landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and Marines from 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

"COMPTUEX scenarios are based on an evolving storyline that is meant to expose the training audience to as many threats as they may experience in the different areas of responsibility," said Capt. Richard Frey, operations officer of Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic. "We don't train [the readiness groups] just on where they're going to deploy, we train them to be world-wide deployable."

The common theme of "teamwork" between the Navy and Marine Corps was stressed throughout the three-week evolution.

"I feel the amphibious readiness group performed extremely well during COMPTUEX," said Capt. Thomas Chassee, commanding officer of Iwo Jima. "COMPTUEX presents an extremely complex series of missions and it takes a full Navy and Marine Corps coordinated effort in order to meet the mission. No single entity can do it by themselves.

"I believe Iwo Jima did integrate very well in both planning and execution of all assigned tasks and successfully did her part in the larger ARG effort in attaining Major Combat Operation certification requirements."

Iwo Jima operations department was able to capitalize on the exercise by blue and green air, surface and communication operations.

"The integration was there as soon as the Marines came aboard and operationally we performed well above standards," said Lt. Kyle Williams, assistant operations officer of Iwo Jima. "It helps when you have well-defined, motivated service members. It was one team, one fight from the beginning."

The teamwork spirit was also exhibited in the ship's air and deck departments, which resulted in safe and timely combat cargo movements of more than 700 personnel from ship to shore.

"The ship's force and combat cargo Marines had to execute a landing plan down to the minute and coordinated between air and surface, not only with our ship but with the other ships in the readiness group with precision," said Marine Chief Warrant Officer Thomas Desiderio, Iwo Jima combat cargo officer. "Our blue-green group has the tools and training to execute and carry out any mission, so [COMPTUEX] went well and we hit all of our marks."

With COMPTUEX completed, the Iwo Jima ARG will move on to the next and final qualification phase, certification exercise, prior to deploying in Spring 2012.

USS New York Conducts Simulated Boardings During COMPTUEX

USS New York, At sea (NNS) -- The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), boarded two vessels, one compliant and one non-compliant, during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) Dec. 14.

New York is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), including Amphibious Squadron 8, the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

COMPTUEX is a major requirement for the ARG pre-deployment certification that evaluates an ARG's ability to deploy and conduct major combat operations, with New York focusing heavily on maritime security and ensuring their team is prepared for anything.

"We take Sailors from the ship and train them to assist in maritime security operations," said New York Operations Officer Lt. Rebecca Domzalski, from Great Quarters, S.C. "Essentially we are taking those Sailors, placing them on a small dhow and other boats on the high seas. Once aboard, they check for smuggled weapons, illicit drugs and human trafficking in accordance with international laws and enforcing U.N. sanctions."

Both Navy Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) and Marine Expanded Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (EVBSS) teams carried out various training scenarios, with both compliant and non-compliant mariners.

"The difference between VBSS and EVBSS - EVBSS is more of a tactical mission. VBSS is used for vessels that are compliant and don't mind us coming on board to search," said Domzalski. "EVBSS is for those vessels that don't want to be boarded, for example, the piracy operations, where the pirates take the vessel and refuse to stop, so our forces that are more experienced tactically go aboard."

Although the primary mission of the VBSS team is searching for wrongdoers, while deployed, they are also tasked with the objective of building positive relationships and promoting peace.

"VBSS teams must be prepared for various situations. One mission specific to a certain region is the Approach and Assist Visit (AAV)," said Domzalski. "AAV is where they go to boats in the area and talk to people in the vicinity. They shake hands, see if there is any information. They try and build good relations."

New York and her crew are both new to the open seas and the deployment challenges that await them. COMPTUEX is a transition exercise designed to bring ships into real-life scenarios.

"Our VBSS team is made up of both experienced and inexperienced people, some who have never deployed before," said Domzalski. "The guys were given a lot of in-scenario missions because they need to get used to walking on to a vessel and seeing what it's going be like and talk to people in character and deal with language barriers."

The team progressed through different levels of training. From the bottom, where they experienced proper boarding techniques, to more advanced levels of training, where they dealt with a prize crew by assuming command of the vessel and driving it to the next port.

"We were tasked with two operations yesterday, counter piracy and escort ops," said Ensign Jeremy Wellens, VBSS team Boarding Officer. "The first was a counterpiracy mission, where a motor vessel was attacked by four small boats and in that situation, our mere presence was enough for the boats to stand down. The second we found illicit materials on board, and at that point, the boat was seized.

"The lesson my team and I learned was, there is no one way to do something," said Wellens. "In the situations we face, we have to trust our instincts."

The Iwo Jima ARG is currently underway for COMPTUEX with a scheduled deployment in spring 2012.

Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group Completes PMINT

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lauren G. Randall, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8 and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) conducted the PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training (PMINT) from Oct. 24 through Nov. 3.

PMINT is the first integrated training between the Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG) comprised of approximately 1,700 Sailors from amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious dock-landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), and approximately 1,200 Marines with the 24th MEU.

PMINT enhanced operability between the Sailors and Marines and began the process of forming a blue-green team during three phases and approximately two weeks of training exercises.

During the first phase, Sailors and Marines worked together to safely embark and integrate the 24th MEU including all of the aircraft, vehicles, gear and personnel throughout the three ships within the ARG.
Sailors and Marines conducted many well deck and flight deck operations during the first two days transporting 24th MEU gear from land to the ARG ships.

"PMINT is not new, we understood what we needed to do which is to bring the blue-green team together for the first time underway," said Marine Capt. Jeremey Wilkinson, MEU Battalion Landing Team (BLT) operations officer. "No matter how you cut the cake, green team cannot be successful without the blue and blue team cannot be successful without the green. So we have to learn how to work together to deliver the right solution around the world."

The second and longest phase was integrated training. Phase two of PMINT included a series of air defense exercises, surface gunnery, communication scenarios, boarding exercises, planning, co-mingling standard operating procedures and testing gear.

During the training exercises, Sailors and Marines worked on their driver training for the on and off loading of vehicles, dock landing qualifications, shipboard familiarization and overall team building.

"In the well decks, we've done a lot of integrated training, bringing different types of crafts and vehicles aboard," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class (SW/AW/SCW) Kenyon Copeland, assigned to Iwo Jima.

"We've worked together with the MEU, the watercraft crews and ships company to stage them to see what kind of storage we can have, and if we would be able to fit any more and still get around."

Post exercise evaluations were held after each operation. All training evolutions were reviewed and critiqued in order to identify any problems and improvement possibilities.

"This is to basically get everyone on the same page before deployment, so that we can operate safely and complete our mission," said Copeland. "All the trainings have gone well; we've worked well together and kept our heads on a swivel."

The debarkation process involved off-loading embarked personnel, aircraft, watercraft and vehicles from the Iwo Jima ARG.

Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Joshua D. Kramer said Sailors and Marines worked well together and expects similar cohesiveness during the next training exercises.

Upon completion of PMINT the Iwo Jima ARG plans to conduct composite unit training exercise (COMPT2X) and a certification exercise (CERTEX) in preparation to deploy in 2012.

Iwo Jima ARG Completes First Phase of PMINT

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Scott P. Youngblood, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8 and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) embarked approximately 1,200 Marines and 1,700 Sailors to complete the first phase of PHIBRON-MEU Integrated Training (PMINT) Oct. 25 and 26.

This process involves on-loading and off-loading embarked personnel, aircraft, watercraft and vehicles between the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) including amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21).

"Here, we get a snapshot of the equipment and their personnel," said Marine Chief Warrant Officer Thomas Desiderio, Iwo Jima's combat cargo officer. "It's a training stage, so we have post-exercise evaluations after every evolution. We look at where the holes are, and we take corrective action for the next evolution."

The embarkation phase enhances operability between the Sailors and Marines and begins the process of forming a blue-green team.

"The embarkation is basically allowing us to get our feet wet and understand our own assets among the ships," said Marine Capt. Jeremey Wilkinson, MEU Battalion Landing Team operations officer. "Essentially the embarkation phase is a building block that allows us to get an idea of how we would be structured aboard a ship in order to meet a wide range of operations."

Marines flew a variety of aircraft from their Aviation Combat Element for training, including the MV-22B Osprey, the AV-8B Harrier, the AH-1 Cobra, CH-53E Super Stallion and the UH-1N Huey.

Landing craft air cushions from Assault Craft Unit 4 also transported light armored vehicles from the 24th MEU to the ARG, while amphibious assault vehicles splashed their way from the beach to the ARG.

"It's like playing the first soccer game of the season," said Desiderio. "People are all over the field until they figure out what their role is and where they should be at what time to execute what orders."

During this training period, embarked Marines will be working on their deck landing qualifications, driver training for the loading and off loading of vehicles, ship familiarization and overall team building.

Upon the completion of PMINT, the Iwo Jima ARG will continue with its remaining exercises in preparation to deploy more effectively in Spring 2012.