U.S. Navy’s Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), together with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), entered the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations on March 7.
While in theater, more than 4,000 sailors and marines of the ARG and MEU will train to share information, experiences, and work together.
“We are ready to put all our training to the test; we are flexible and capable for any mission that should come our way,” said Capt. Larry LeGree , commander, Bataan ARG.
The Bataan ARG is comprised of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8, the 24th MEU, amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), amphibious transport dock USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50). Also embarked as part of the Bataan ARG are Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, Fleet Surgical Team 6, Tactical Air Control Squadron 21, Assault Craft Unit 4, and Beachmaster Unit 2.
The 24th MEU consists of more than 2,200 Marines, including a Ground Combat Element, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Battalion 24 and the MEU command element.