A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Evil Eyes of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 163 transfers ammunition to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45), not pictured, from the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during an ammunition onload. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group is underway on a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac/Released)By Lt. Chad A. Dulac, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 1 Public Affairs
PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4), as part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (BOXARG), and the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Pearl Harbor, Mar. 1, for a port visit during their deployment.
"This is a great opportunity for the crew of the ARG/MEU to replenish our supplies, embark key personnel, relax a bit and enjoy the spirit of Ohana before we press West on our deployment," said Commander, Amphibious Squadron 1, Capt. J. Curtis Shaub.
Boxer, along with amphibious transport-dock ship, USS Green Bay (LPD 20) and amphibious dock-landing ship, USS Comstock (LSD 45)have trained and prepared to execute a multitude of missions from humanitarian assistance to kinetic operations.
"We are eager to do our part and put to use the skill-sets and readiness the ARG/MEU has worked so diligently to perfect," said Shaub. "The Navy and Marine Corps team is primed at the height of their efficiency and every servicemember wants to employ their skills to support the Maritime Strategy in whatever theater we are asked to operate."
BOXARG includes approximately 4,000 personnel with nearly 1,800 Sailors and 2,200 embarked Marines from 13th MEU. The 13th MEU is led by Col. David Coffman, U.S. Marine Corps. BOXARG/13th MEU can operate as a combined expeditionary strike group or deploy assets to provide support for multiple missions.
Other elements of the BOXARG include: Fleet Surgical Team 3; Tactical Air Control Squadron 11; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Det. 5; Assault Craft Unit 1, Det. C; Assault Craft Unit 5, Det. C and Beach Master Unit 1, Det. E.
During their deployment, BOXARG will provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the eastern Pacific, as well as support the Navy's Maritime Strategy.