Sailors from the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (KSGARG) and Marines assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed Norfolk, to participate in composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) off the East Coast of the United States, July 16.
Capt. Larry Getz, Kearsarge executive officer, said:
COMPTUEX is our final certification exercise before our fleet commander determines that we are cleared for major combat operations.
The ships of the ARG will train as individual units and at an integrated level, concentrating on ship-specific capabilities and systems.
COMPTUEX supports the Navy’s mission of training to improve warfighting capabilities and preparing to operate forward when the nation calls.
The KSGARG deploys later this fall to provide an overseas forward presence and maintain maritime security to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet AORs.
The Group consists of the Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4, 26th MEU, the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51).
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Image: US Navy