From, Amphibious Squadron Three Public Affairs
<< USS Green Bay (LPD 20) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47), part of the Peleliu ARG, travel in formation with their landing craft, air cushion (LCAC), March 29 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam)
INDIAN OCEAN - The Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) April 4, after completing five months of operations supporting maritime security and security cooperation objectives with partner nations in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.
Returning during 7th Fleet's 70th anniversary, which is being celebrated this year, Peleliu ARG becomes another link in the long chain of ships, aircraft, Sailors and Marines that have deployed to the region to maintain security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
"The rich and storied history of the U.S. 7th Fleet provides a powerful example of the Navy's dedication in preserving the free and safe movement of commerce, support for our friends and stability in the region," said Capt. Shawn Lobree, commander, Amphibious Squadron Three. "We look forward to continuing in that tradition."
While in 7th Fleet, the Peleliu ARG will conduct training and engage with our maritime partners to enhance these partnerships and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Asian Pacific region.
"Returning to 7th Fleet during the anniversary reminds us that today's Marines and Sailors build upon an excellent relationship with our partners in the region," said Col. Scott D. Campbell, commanding officer of the 15th MEU. "Our military remains devoted to serve as a stabilizing force in the Asia-Pacific theater by training and working closely with our strategic regional partners."
The ARG consists of amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) and embarked 15th MEU.
Other ARG elements consist of Commander, Amphibious Squadron Three, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Assault Craft Units One and Five, Tactical Air Control Squadron 11, Beachmaster Unit One and Fleet Surgical Team One.
The 7th Fleet's area of responsibility encompasses more than 48 million square miles from the Kurile Islands, north of Japan, to the Antarctic in the south, and from the International Date Line to the 68th meridian east, which runs down from the India-Pakistan border.