31st Marine Expeditionary Unit Arrives in Okinawa

---

CAMP HANSEN, Okinawa, Japan -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit is scheduled to arrive at White Beach and commenced offload after concluding Exercise Cobra Gold 2009 in the Royal Kingdom of Thailand. The MEU embark team successfully planned and coordinated the offload of more than 1,500 personnel, 300 pieces of cargo, and aircraft onboard all three ships of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

Next, the MEU will conduct training on Camp Hansen in preparation for Exercise Balikatan 2009 in the Republic of the Philippines, their second major exercise of the Spring Patrol. The MEU will have an opportunity to train in a series of bilateral events with the Republic of the Philippines Armed Forces that will enhance the military capabilities for both countries and strengthen their relationship. The Marines and Sailors of the MEU will also take part in several community relations projects, improving roads and offering medical and dental assistance to the people of the Philippine Islands.

- http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=news/news_show.php&id=30589

---