Navy and Marines Conduct Joint Training Exercise in Guam

Strategic Insights -

Sailors with Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 7 hosted a training exercise for a platoon of Marines visiting from Yokosuka, Japan, demonstrating the strong partnership between the two forces. The training focused on antiterrorism and force protection, showcasing the Navy's capabilities in supporting high-value assets at sea. The exercise highlighted the importance of cooperation and interagency training in maintaining regional security.

Key Takeaways:

  • The training exercise involved approximately 50 members of Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific Company (FASTPAC), Bravo 1 Platoon, who utilized MSRON 7's boat training simulator to practice antiterrorism security procedures.
  • The simulator utilized laser-sighted weapons, mounted aboard a boat that simulated movement with hydraulics, to allow participants to interact with electronic targets on theater-sized screens.
  • Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Luis Medina emphasized the significance of cooperation between the Navy and Marines, stating that it is essential for conducting operations effectively.
  • FASTPAC maintains a forward-deployed presence around the world to quickly respond to crises and detect, deter, and defend against terrorist activities.
  • Master-at-Arms 1st Class (EXW/SW) Jesse Izdepski highlighted the importance of visual aids in training, allowing Marines to see how they might support Navy missions.
  • MSRON 7 provides rapidly deployable forces to conduct or support antiterrorism and force protection missions, promoting the maritime strategy and strengthening partnerships with allied nations.
  • The training exercise showcased the effectiveness of interagency training in maintaining regional security, with Marines participating in exercises with other units, including Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5, Naval Special Warfare Unit 1, and Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1.

Statistics:

  • 50 members of FASTPAC participated in the training exercise.
  • The exercise utilized Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Luis Medina, Master-at-Arms 1st Class (EXW/SW) Jesse Izdepski, and other Sailors and Marines in demonstrating the capabilities of MSRON 7's boat training simulator.
  • FASTPAC has a forward-deployed presence around the world, with a minimum of 50 personnel participating in the exercise.
  • MSRON 7 was commissioned in May 2004, with a mission to provide rapidly deployable forces to conduct or support antiterrorism and force protection missions.

Sources:

  • "Sailors with Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 7 host training exercise for Marines visiting from Yokosuka, Japan," U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas, www.navy.mil/local/guam/.