Sailors and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) recently completed amphibious integration training (AIT) and certification exercises (CERTEX).
AIT is the first and essential step toward preparing for CERTEX. It is designed to strengthen the bonds between the ships of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 31st MEU Marines through several exercises and scenarios.
AIT is composed of situational training exercises such as a vertical assault, small-boat raids, non-combatant evacuation operation, and a maritime interception operation.
Bonhomme Richard, with embarked Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7, Rear Adm. Hugh Wetherald, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, Capt. Heidi Agle and their staff are on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations providing security and stability to the Asia-Pacific region.
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Image: US Navy