Bonhomme Richard Operating in the East China Sea

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Matthew Titus signals an AV-8B Harrier assigned to the "Tomcats" of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 311 to take off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). The ship is the flagship of it's expeditionary strike group, which is on a routine patrol, operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to enhance warfighting readiness and posture forward as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Diana Quinlan (Released) 170403-N-WF272-554

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.

Combined Task Force 76 and Royal Australian Navy Embark for Talisman Saber 2013

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Edward Guttierrez III

BRISBANE, Australia (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, along with members of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), embarked the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), for the joint-force exercise Talisman Saber 2013 (TS13) July 13.

Talisman Saber is a biennial training exercise aimed at improving the combat training, readiness, and interoperability of a combined U.S.-Australian task force.

Embarking members of the RAN on Bonhomme Richard, in addition to the RAN ships participating in the exercise, allows key staff members to work side by side with U.S. forces and synchronize their planning and operational procedures as a combined task force.

"Talisman Saber 2013 is designed to enhance our interoperability with the Australian Defense Forces, our long standing partners in this region," said Harley. "The embark of Australian Naval officers aboard Bonhomme Richard will allow us to more closely integrate our staffs during this complex bi-lateral, combined and joint exercise."

While embarked on Bonhomme Richard for TS13, Harley, as Commander of the Amphibious Force, is responsible for five subordinate commands: Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the Australian Amphibious Task Group, the 2nd Royal Australian Regiment, and the Sea Combat Commander.

Together, these commands will train to ensure Australian and U.S. forces are capable, deployable on short notice, and combat-ready.

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

#Warfighting: Bonhomme Richard ARG, 31st MEU Complete PHIBLEX

Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) 29 prepares to enter the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). Bonhomme Richard recently completed Amphibious Landing Exercise, an annual bilateral exercise designed to improve interoperability, increase readiness and develop professional and personal relationships between U.S. forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Russell/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Karen Blankenship, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed from Subic Bay, Philippines Oct. 20 after completing the Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX).

PHIBLEX is an annual bilateral exercise held in conjunction with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and is designed to improve interoperability, increase readiness and develop professional and personal relationships between U.S. and Philippine forces.

"Our historical relationship with the Republic of the Philippines is important," said Lt. Col. Troy Roesti, executive officer of the 31st MEU. "The resounding success of PHIBLEX 13 served to strengthen and reinforce the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries."

PHIBLEX lasted 10 days and was conducted at sea and ashore in the Republic of the Philippines. The bilateral training covered many different aspects of military operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions and combined arms live-fire exercises.

"The value of this partnered training is immeasurable," said Roesti. "The resounding success, camaraderie and esprit de corps experienced during PHIBLEX 13 will serve as a benchmark for future exercises and training opportunities with our friends in the Philippines."

Marines and Sailors from the 31st MEU also visited five schools in Margulo, Magsaysay and Puerta Princesa. During these visits service members helped clean the schools by removing weeds and brush and by picking up trash. They also had the chance to interact with the children at the schools by playing games and talking with them.

"Getting to interact with the Filipino children goes beyond just playing games with them," said Lance Cpl. Cameron Wright, a heavy equipment operator with the 31st MEU. "They'll remember our visits and the various medical and engineering projects we've done with them, which all goes toward fostering a stronger relationship that goes beyond military-to-military training. These are lifelong bonds for the future."

Exercises like PHIBLEX help strengthen the ties between the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Pacific region.

"The partnered training during this exercise allowed U.S. Marines and Sailors, alongside Republic of the Philippine marines, sailors, soldiers and airmen, to teach and learn from each other, practice newly acquired skills and then demonstrate their unique capabilities," said Roesti. "The Marines and Sailors of the 31st MEU leave PHIBLEX 13 better trained and with memories that will not be forgotten."

The Bonhomme Richard ARG, commanded by Capt. Cathal S. O'Connor, is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) and is currently operating in the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

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.

Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Returns from Deployment

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), and dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) return to San Diego April 14, after a six-month deployment to Middle East and Southeast Asia.

"I am proud of this exceptional crew, who excelled at every mission they were given," said Bonhomme Richard Commanding Officer, Capt. John Funk. "Through their efforts and professionalism, Bonhomme Richard had a direct impact on our national security, and made a positive difference in each country we visited."

Bonhomme Richard ARG, along with 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, participated in Marine Exercise 2009, a multilateral training exercise. The Timor-Leste's Armed Forces and International Stabilization Force were also involved in the exercise, which was designed to enhance interoperability and communication between U.S. Navy and Timor-Leste forces. Cleveland and Rushmore personnel trained with the Indonesian Marines in jungle operations, platoon live-fire maneuvers, bilateral reconnaissance, and military operations in urban terrain.

Cleveland and Rushmore also conducted a series of training exercises and theater security cooperation activities in conjunction with militaries from partner nations in the Persian Gulf region. Training efforts focused on enhancing operational readiness, military-to-military cooperation, and interoperability with the armed forces of both Kuwait and United Arab Emirates.

Sailors and Marines from the Bonhomme Richard ARG took part in several humanitarian and community outreach projects during the deployment. In Timor-Leste, the crew took part in medical and dental civic action projects, visited a local orphanage, and also competed in a goodwill soccer match against the Timor-Leste national youth team. While in Phuket, Thailand they participated in three community service projects, painting, performing general repairs and interacting with children at three different schools.

After departing the 5th fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR), Bonhomme Richard made a port visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where more than 70 Sailors and Marines volunteered at a daycare center for disabled children. They also spent three days painting and completing grounds work around the center.

Rushmore Sailors volunteered at Fukuoka Children's Hospital in Fukuoka, Japan, providing musical entertainment and interacting with young patients.

Also returning with the USS Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group are the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; the Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Det. 3; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1, Det. B; ACU 5, Det. F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Det. B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile AOR in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

BHR ARG, 11th MEU Leave 7th Fleet to End Deployment

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) April 1 for the final leg of a seven-month deployment.

More than 4,300 members of the San Diego-based ARG/MEU team set sail last September in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation initiatives in the 5th and 7th Fleet AORs.

While transiting 7th Fleet in March, ARG ships – USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Cleveland (LPD 7), and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) – made scheduled port calls to Phuket, Thailand; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and Fukuoka, Japan.

"Our port visits in 7th Fleet not only fostered goodwill and cultivated positive exchanges, but also produced dynamic experiences that our Sailors and Marines will reflect on for years to come," said Capt. Tim Wilson, commander of the Bonhomme Richard ARG.

More than 150 service members from Rushmore and Cleveland completed improvement projects at two schools, an orphanage and a local hospital while visiting Phuket, Thailand. During Bonhomme Richard's visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, more than 70 Sailors and Marines spent time interacting with local youngsters at a day care center for disabled children.

"The Marines and Sailors of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit truly enjoyed their time in 7th Fleet and once again demonstrated the utility of well-trained forces embarked aboard multipurpose ships," said Col. Gregg Olson, commander of the 11th MEU.

During a goodwill visit to Fukuoka, Japan, March 16 - 21, more than 30 service members stationed aboard Rushmore visited young patients at Fukuoka Children's Hospital. Japanese patients were giddy with excitement when two Sailors and a Marine led a lively version of the hokey-pokey, strumming acoustic guitars and dancing in the hospital's entertainment room.

"Marines and Sailors had opportunity to contribute their labor to those in need during community service projects. They upheld the highest traditions of the naval services and spent time ashore as good ambassadors of the United States," said Olson.

Over the course of deployment, ARG/MEU personnel volunteered in over 20 community service projects during port visits to Guam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Timor-Leste, Japan and in the Persian Gulf.

In addition, Sailors and Marines provided medical and dental care to more than 2,000 patients in Indonesia and Timor-Leste, working along side local healthcare officials during Marine Exercise 2009 in October.

"I could not be prouder of our Sailors and Marines. Their enthusiasm and desire to make a real difference speaks to the character of our team," said Wilson. "Every one of our positive interactions promoted trust and cooperation, which complemented stability and security efforts with each nation we visited. The ARG/MEU team truly was a goodwill ambassador for the United States."

Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Enters 5th Fleet

The aft lookout stands the watch as a landing craft, air cushion prepares to enter the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eva-Marie Ramsaran/Released)

INDIAN OCEAN (NNS) -- After transiting the western Pacific Ocean, the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) entered the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations this week to relieve the Bataan ARG.

While deployed to the region, Sailors and Marines from the Bonhomme Richard ARG and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) will conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO), which help set conditions for security and promote regional stability and global prosperity.

"We've been training for the MSO mission in this region for quite some time," said Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG's commodore. "We're ready to execute when tasked."

While transiting the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR en route to the 5th Fleet AOR, the ARG/MEU team participated in humanitarian projects during Marine Exercise 2009, sending Sailors and Marines ashore in Indonesia and Timor-Leste to provide medical and dental care to more than 2,000 patients in cooperation with local health care officials.

Sailors and Marines also volunteered in over a dozen community service projects during four port visits in the area. Projects ranged from cleaning kennels at an animal shelter in Guam, repairing playground structures in Phuket, Thailand, and interacting with children at orphanages in Dili, Timor-Leste.

Maritime Security Operations develop security in the maritime environment and complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment to transport personnel and weapons or serve as a venue for attack.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG consists of three ships – amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6); amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7); and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

In addition, the ARG includes the command element, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Departs 7th Fleet

By Lt. j.g. Tim Hawkins, Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs

INDIAN OCEAN (NNS) -- The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) departed the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations as part of its regularly scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf Nov. 10.

Led by Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG consists of more than 2,300 personnel who serve aboard three ships — amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6); amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7); and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

"We've enjoyed working with partner nations and representing the Navy's commitment to the region," said Clark. "Everywhere we operated or visited, our Sailors and Marines made a positive difference."

Sailors and Marines made port calls to Guam, Timor-Leste, Singapore and Thailand; and also operated ashore in both Timor-Leste and Indonesia Oct. 14 – 24 during Marine Exercise (MAREX) 2009, a multilateral training exercise.

Bonhomme Richard completed the Timor-Leste portion of MAREX and worked with Timor-Leste's armed forces and International Stabilization Force to enhance interoperability and communication between the U.S. Navy and Timor-Leste forces.

Cleveland and Rushmore personnel completed the Indonesian portion and trained with the Indonesian Marines in areas including jungle operations, platoon live-fire and maneuvers, bilateral reconnaissance, and military operations in urban terrain.

The ARG/MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) team also participated in humanitarian projects, sending Sailors and Marines ashore in Indonesia and Timor-Leste to provide medical and dental care to a total of more than 2,000 patients in cooperation with local healthcare officials.

In addition to completing MAREX, members of the ARG/MEU team volunteered in over a dozen community service projects during four port visits throughout the region. Projects ranged from cleaning kennels at an animal shelter in Guam, repairing playground structures in Phuket, Thailand and interacting with children at orphanages in Dili, Timor-Leste.

"The expressions of gratitude from our hosts and the sense of satisfaction held by our Marines and Sailors were indicators of our success," said Cmdr. John Shimotsu, Bonhomme Richard's chaplain and community service coordinator. "Each of these projects expanded the scope of our positive exchanges."

In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

The 7th Fleet operating area includes more than half of the world's population and more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans — stretching from the International Date Line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to Antarctica in the south.

While transiting the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, the Bonhomme Richard ARG reported to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

Bonhomme Richard ARG/11th MEU Arrives in Timor-Leste for MAREX-09

Sailors man the rails as the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) arrives at Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a scheduled port call.

BONHOMME RICHARD, At sea (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), arrived in Savu Sea to conduct a multilateral exercise in cooperation with the government of Timor-Leste Oct. 14.

During Marine Exercise 2009 (MAREX 09), ARG Sailors and embarked Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are scheduled to participate in Theater Security Cooperation programs and training ashore with the Timor-Leste and Australian militaries.

"We're excited to work with our Timor-Leste and Australian partners," said Commodore Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG commander. "The ARG/MEU team hopes to build upon a strong relationship with this new country and make a difference in the community."

Bonhomme Richard displaces 40,500 tons and features a 2.2 acre flight deck that will enable medical and dental personnel to travel ashore and assist local healthcare workers in providing care to local residents.

"The scope of the medical, dental and preventative medicine services the Navy harnesses afloat is an awesome capability not only for our own Marines and Sailors, but to those unfortunate few or many that may have suffered hardship," said Commander, Amphibious Task Force Surgeon Cmdr. Steven Gabele.

In addition to offering medical and dental assistance, ARG/MEU personnel will partner with local government and education officials to repair the roof of a secondary school as well as construct desks and chalk boards.

Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines have also volunteered to participate in local sporting events and visit children in orphanages in the country's capital city.

"It's a great thing. These projects not only meet needs [in Timor-Leste] but also meet the desires of Sailors and Marines to help people," said Cmdr. John Shimotsu, Bonhomme Richard's senior chaplain and community service coordinator. "One of the last things people remember is our ability to make a positive difference in the communities that we visit."

The ARG's other two ships, USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47), are participating in the other portion of MAREX-09 in neighboring Indonesia.

The ARG also consists of the command element, commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; the ready group's flagship, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6); Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG is transiting the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations and reports to Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

Bonhomme Richard ARG Enters 7th Fleet

The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J Kaiser (T-AO 187). Bonhomme Richard, the flagship for the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, is on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah E. Bitter/Released)

BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), entered the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations Oct. 2 as part of its regularly scheduled deployment to promote peace, cooperation and stability in the region.

Led by Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG consists of three ships — amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

"We have a great Navy, Marine Corps team and offer a full range of operational capabilities. We look forward to operating in the 7th Fleet and playing a role in regional security and cooperation," said Clark. "We are also prepared to provide assistance in the region when called upon."

The ARG's 2,300 personnel make up the Navy component of a multicapable team that also includes 2,200 embarked Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), commanded by Col. Gregg Olson.

Capt. John Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer, is also looking forward to operating in the 7th Fleet region.

"We are looking forward to every opportunity to build friendships and enhance partnerships in the region and wherever we visit, to show our hosts the best ambassadors the United States has to offer – the Sailors and Marines of Bonhomme Richard," said Funk.

In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

The 7th Fleet operating area includes more than half of the world's population and more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian Oceans — stretching from the International Date Line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG is transiting the 7th Fleet Area of Operations and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.

BHR Departs San Diego for Deployment

Sailors and embarked Marines man the rails as the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) gets underway from Naval Base San Diego. Bonhomme Richard and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit departed on a regularly scheduled western Pacific deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John J. Siller /Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Porter Anderson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), with more than 4,500 Sailors and Marines, departed Naval Base San Diego Sept. 24, for a regularly scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific and the Middle East.

Bonhomme Richard was delayed a week before deploying in order to correct engineering maintenance issues. Deficiencies were discovered that were best corrected pier-side before commencing with Bonhomme Richard's deployment.

A team from Norfolk Naval Shipyard was immediately flown to San Diego to begin repairs to the generators.

"I appreciate the efforts of the shipyard repair team, who have done a phenomenal job working around the clock to make repairs so that we can take this magnificent warship to sea safely and do our nation's bidding," said Capt. John Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer. "I also appreciate the efforts of every Sailor on board Bonhomme Richard for supporting the repair team while being flexible and maintaining our focus during the last several days."

Many of the Sailors aboard Bonhomme Richard are deploying for the first time in their Navy careers.

"I am both excited and sad to be deploying," said Seaman Jesus Molina, part of Bonhomme Richard's deck department, and deploying for the first time. "It's sad because I am leaving my six-week old baby and wife, but exciting to be able to see the world and prepare for my future in the Navy."

There are a number of deployment veterans who can give advice and support to those Sailors and Marines who are deploying for their first time.

"I know it can get rough out there when we are deployed," said Gunner's Mate 3rd Class William Payne, a deployment veteran aboard Bonhomme Richard and a member of weapons department. "The days are long, and the weeks fly by and once you hit the halfway mark, time starts to blur, and nothing, I mean nothing can ever compare to the feeling you get during the ship's homecoming. Seeing your friends and family on the pier after six months of hard work, that is what helped me get through the last deployment."

Bonhomme Richard's mission while deployed will be to support and maintain the Navy's Maritime Strategy to promote peace and security throughout the region.

"The war has continued to progress, and we have now an opportunity to contribute," said Capt. Rodney Clark, Amphibious Squadron 7 commander. "We bring the combatant commander a range of capabilities, so when we are called upon, they can come to us for anything from humanitarian missions to kinetic operations, and we are ready."

The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with Bonhomme Richard as the flagship will also deploy with USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Det. 1; The "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Det. 3; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1, Det. B; ACU 5, Det. F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Det. B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

Bonhomme Richard ARG Ready to Deploy

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is scheduled to depart Naval Base San Diego Friday, Sept. 18 for a deployment to the Western Pacific and Middle East.

Nearly 4,500 Sailors and Marines will deploy aboard the ready group's three ships, amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the ARG flagship; the amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7); and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

Commanded by Capt. Rodney Clark, the Bonhomme Richard ARG includes 2,100 embarked troops from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) based in Camp Pendleton.

Maintaining peace and stability, preserving freedom of the seas, and fostering cooperative relationships with international partners are key focal points of the deployment as the ARG/MEU executes the Navy and Marine Corps' maritime strategy.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG/11th MEU team employs a full range of operational capabilities. With the ability to reach 70 percent of the world's coastline, the ARG/MEU can rapidly respond to crises if called upon to project combat power ashore or provide humanitarian assistance.

In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Det. 3; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1, Det. B; ACU 5, Det. F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Det. B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

Bonhomme Richard ARG will help 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 supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

Bonhomme Richard, 11th MEU Underway for Final Certification Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Marcus Stanley, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) (BHR) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) got underway Aug. 10 for a certification exercise (CERTEX) to prepare for deployment later this year.

CERTEX is the last of a three-part pre-deployment exercise conducted to strengthen the MEU's ability to operate with the Navy and respond to situations that may arise.

"CERTEX tests both blue and green planning, execution and timeliness to see if we meet the standards to deploy," said Cmdr. Michael Dickson, Bonhomme Richard operations officer. "However, this exercise, unlike those previously completed, focuses mainly on the MEU's ability to carry out and properly execute their mission."

The MEU's mission as it is teams with the Bonhomme Richard includes providing a rapid-response force capable of conducting conventional amphibious and selected maritime operations from sea, by surface or air.

"Even though the focus of this exercise is geared mainly toward the Marines, it's the big BHR blue-green team, so this means Bonhomme Richard is operating at full swing in support of this mission and getting this certification under our belts so we can set our sights on a successful deployment," said Dickson.

Outside observers will assess the MEU through a series of individual evolutions that make up the overall mission of the MEU, including humanitarian and disaster relief assistance, long range helicopter recovery, non-combatant evacuation operations and amphibious assault operations.

"Marine inspectors from the First Marine Expeditionary Force will present us with situation and missions and observe our planning and execution throughout each evolution," said Dickson.

"This exercise builds on best practices and maintains continuity between the MEUs," said Col. Gregg P. Olson, the 11th MEU's commanding officer. "Standardization ensures that whichever combatant commander we may work for knows exactly what he is getting with a MEU."

Bonhomme Richard is the lead ship for the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, which includes Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; USS Cleveland (LPD 7); USS Rushmore (LSD 47); Tactical Squadron 12 Detachment 2; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1 Detachments Bravo and Foxtrot, Beachmaster Unit 1 Detachment Bravo and Fleet Surgical Team 9.