Whereas in port, the Bataan ARG and twenty sixth MEU(SOC) crew will conduct routine upkeep following a number of months of distributed operations and actions throughout the U.S. fifth and sixth Fleet areas of operations since July 2023.
“The final six months has showcased the worth, utility, and operational flexibility a forward-deployed ARG and MEU(SOC) present when it comes to campaigning and disaster response,” mentioned Col. Dennis “Dolf” Sampson, commanding officer of the twenty sixth MEU(SOC). “Our latest MEU(SOC) Train “Odyssey Encore” and the built-in coaching with the Hellenic thirty second Marine Brigade and Hellenic SOF was important to sustaining our operational capabilities and readiness throughout the MEU(SOC) Marine Air-Floor Activity Power. This port go to will present a chance to conduct regular required upkeep and inspections of our autos and gear previous to getting underway for the subsequent section in our deployment. Extra so, it’s going to present the Marines and Sailors with some high quality, well-earned liberty and a chance to benefit from the native tradition in Crete.”
Souda Bay marks the second port go to for majority of the Sailors and Marines of the Bataan ARG and twenty sixth MEU(SOC) to the U.S. Naval Power Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) space of accountability following their re-aggregation within the Mediterranean, Dec. 28. Throughout this go to they are going to have the chance to discover Souda Bay, take part in group relations tasks and cultural excursions hosted by every ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation committees.
“That is my final port go to as I depart the Bataan after six years, and I’m wanting ahead to seeing historic locations from 1,000 years in the past,” mentioned Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Gas) 2nd Class Gerald Labtis. “I’ll cherish and treasure each little bit of it.”
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces within the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of accountability. U.S. sixth Fleet is completely assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF and employs maritime forces via the total spectrum of joint and naval operations.
For extra info, please contact Amphibious Squadron 8 Public Affairs Crew, CPR8PAO@lhd5.navy.mil.
