Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. James F. Amos, toured Kuwait to observe the joint Marine and Army progress of the responsible draw down of equipment in Iraq, Dec. 22.
While in country, Amos had the opportunity to visit Camp Patriot, and meet with Marines of the Marine Corp Logistics Command who are responsible for receiving equipment from the drawdown and ensuring it makes it out of the country.
"I wanted to get a sense of the effort going into the management of equipment coming out of Iraq and going to the United States," said Amos.
Amos had the opportunity to meet with Lt. Gen. William G. Webster, commanding general for Third Army, upon his arrival in Kuwait. The generals, along with Congressman Darrell Issa, 49th Congressional District who was also visiting, discussed the successes and efforts in supporting a responsible drawdown of equipment for Marines and Army alike.
"We could not do this without the brother and sister hood with the Army," said Amos. "The relationship we have is strong and the support we have from them is critical. We couldn't get the supplies and vehicles down from Iraq without their support."
A tour of the new 'Mobile Trauma Bay' allowed Amos to see new life-saving equipment for the battlefield.
The MTB, a conex-sized hospital made to handle serious combat injuries and surgeries, has already saved many Marines and Soldiers on the battlefield.
Stepping up operations in theater continues to be a primary focus for Marines and the Army as they overcome new challenges in completing the mission.
"Third Army will end up refocusing the effort they have been providing for us in Iraq into other areas of operation," said Amos. "I think this relationship will continue to evolve and just get better and better."
Before leaving Kuwait, Amos took the opportunity to show his appreciation and pride for the service the Marines have provided through multiple deployments and theaters of operations.
"All I can say is that I am proud of them. Every one of them volunteered, they didn't have to sign up. We will be here at Christmas and New Years and I just want to wish them a merry Christmas and a happy new year."