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OKINAWA, Japan (January 22, 2010) - The
forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) on-loaded
more than 1,100 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary
Unit (MEU) Jan. 22-24 in preparation for the ship’s annual spring
patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.
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Essex’s Combat Cargo Department moved hundreds of vehicles and cargo
in support of the Battalion Landing Team (BLT), Ground Combat
Element (GCE), Aviation Combat Element (ACE) and Combat Logistics
Battalion.
“This underway is going to provide some challenges for both the blue
and green sides,” said Gunnery Sgt. Steven Jones, senior combat
cargo assistant. “The MEU is the same, but a lot of the subordinate
elements have changed. We will have to work together to build a
strong working relationship, but this is nothing new for Essex. It’s
a challenge we’re ready to meet.”
Preparing to take on the MEU began weeks before Essex departed from
Sasebo, Japan. Flight deck, forklift and safety qualifications were
updated, and new personnel were trained to perform in the fast-paced
environment.
The 31st MEU consists of ground, command, air and combat support
elements that allow the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESX ARG) to
conduct amphibious operations from the sea and project power ashore.
For one of those elements, the ACE, coming aboard for the upcoming
exercise provides many opportunities.
“Embarking on Essex will allow us to improve upon our aircraft
readiness,” said Maj. Lee Cracknel, ACE aviation maintenance
officer. “Additionally, we’re looking forward to the evolutions
we’ll be executing. We’re going to get to train in some areas that
we don’t normally get to operate in.” |
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