The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, designated Special Operations Capable, departed Aug. 14 for a regularly scheduled deployment, according to the Navy.
The three-ship group—flagship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS San Antonio (LPD 17) and USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28)—is carrying more than 4,500 Sailors and Marines. The Navy-Marine Corps team is tasked with providing forward presence near shorelines and the ability to put forces ashore for a range of contingency operations worldwide.
“The IWO ARG – 22nd MEU (SOC) is an integral part of advancing our nations’ interests abroad and is a dynamic representation of our Navy’s 250 years of lethality and warfighting excellence,” said Capt. Chris Farricker, commodore, Amphibious Squadron 8. “Our integrated Navy-Marine Corps warfighters are ready to execute the nation’s business and deliver quick and decisive combat power no matter where we are tasked in today’s complex global environment.”
The units got underway after completing Composite Training Unit Exercise on July 11, the service’s capstone and most rigorous pre-deployment assessment. The Iwo Jima-led ARG is configured to deter adversaries, support U.S. strategic objectives and help ensure the free flow of commerce on the high seas under international law. Embarked Marines from the 22nd MEU (SOC) form a sea-based Marine Air-Ground Task Force able to conduct amphibious operations, facilitate follow-on forces and execute designated special operations in support of combatant commanders.
“The IWO ARG – 22nd MEU (SOC) is ready to serve as the nation’s force of choice, prepared to decisively respond to any crisis in support of our national interests,” said Col. Tom “Banshee” Trimble, commanding officer, 22nd MEU (SOC). “We are warfighters; manned, trained, and equipped to win – anywhere, anytime.”
U.S. 2nd Fleet oversees forces across the Atlantic and Arctic, with a mission to ensure access, deter aggression and protect U.S., allied and partner interests.
