Sailors and Marines Train-Up for Amphibious Operations

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Kuzlik, Expeditionary Strike Group 2 Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- More than 200 active and Reserve component Sailors and Marines stormed Anzio Beach aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS), Va., Oct. 29, as part of Exercise Sandcrab 2010.

After initial delays caused by high seas, heavy winds and some computer problems, the landing was successfully accomplished.

"We had some small logistical problems, but we were able to turn it around as a result of the training that we go through," Chief Boatswain's Mate (SCW) Stephen Helmer said. "The successful integration of Active and Reserve component assets, combined with our experience and training is what enabled the exercise to proceed. The want to, the need to, learn and be involved is the mitigating factor."

The simulated ship-to-shore movement and amphibious landing was the highlight of the three-day training exercise between U.S. Navy Beach Group TWO (NBG2) and the Marine Corps 4th Landing Support Battalion.

This was all part of an increased emphasis on training in amphibious operations to provide fully-trained and ready personnel and prepare Navy and U.S. Marine Corps Reserve assets for mission readiness and world-wide deployment.

Among the objectives of the exercise was to conduct individual, team and craft training exercises to train Reserve component personnel to handle actual and simulated personnel and equipment casualties.

The operation featured Landing Craft Air Cushioned, high-speed over-beach-landing class hovercraft capable of carrying 75 tons of weapons, cargo, equipment and personnel.

Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 utilized improved Navy lighterage system causeways ferries to transport Humvees, Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) six-wheel drive all terrain vehicles, and support personnel.

Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 provides operational command and control over forces to deliver power projection ashore and rapidly respond to global crises.

ESG-2 Commander Rear Adm. Kevin D. Scott emphasized the importance of providing Sailors and Marines continued training with Navy landing craft and lighterage.

"Hands-on training develops proficiency and confidence in our Sailors and Marines," Scott said. "This type of joint exercise is how we know we are ready to successfully execute any mission in support of the nation's maritime strategy."

"Our Reservists have always been essential members of the nation's military force. They are the reason why we have unsurpassed readiness to respond to any mission, anytime, anywhere. A fully integrated Reserve component brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that complements our active component and increases our overall combat effectiveness," said Scott.

The primary mission of NBG 2 and its subordinate commands, ACB 2, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, ACU 4, and Beach Master Unit 2, is to provide ship-to-shore transportation of fuel, materials and equipment in support of expeditionary strike groups, Marine expeditionary forces and brigade-sized operations and maritime prepositioned force operations.