NAPLES, Italy (NNS) – The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), entered the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, March 7, as part of a routine deployment in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe, NATO allies, and European and African partner nations.
Quotes:
"We are ready to put all our training to the test; we are flexible and capable for any mission that should come our way." - Capt. Larry LeGree, commander, Bataan ARG
"The Marines and Sailors of 24th MEU and Bataan ARG are ready and look forward to working with our allies and partners in the 6th Fleet area of operations." - Col. Ryan S. Rideout, commander, 24th MEU
Quick Facts:
While in theater, more than 4,000 Sailors and Marines of the ARG and MEU will train to share information, experiences, and work together for regional stability.
ARGs are capable of a variety of operations including amphibious combat operations, anti-piracy, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
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. The 24th MEU spent 26 weeks training in mission areas such as security operations, humanitarian relief, and amphibious raids.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
