US military forces have commenced a training exercise in South Townsville. At 3.30 this afternoon, a US Navy hovercraft will land on the South Townsville beach off Benwell Road.

Media who are interested in covering the landing and conducting interviews with U.S. Marines and sailors should meet at the South Townsville Beach, (end of Archer Street) at 3:20 p.m. this afternoon.

Background

US Marines will use the Mt. Stuart and Townsville Field training areas to conduct training that will maintain their mission readiness and enhance war-fighting skills.

Before leaving the US, participants completed an Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) under the close supervision of Australian government inspectors. The rigorous inspection, which took 10 days and was completed Feb. 3, was conducted of all principle items such as aircraft, vehicles and trailers that will be used in the exercise to ensure they conform to agricultural and environmental standards of the host nation.

The 11th MEU is a versatile, flexible force capable of conducting a variety of missions across the spectrum of conflict -- from humanitarian assistance to combat operations.  Organized as a Marine Air Ground Task Force, the 11th MEU has its own combination of air, ground and support assets to include fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft, artillery, tanks, and other mechanized and motorized vehicles.  The 11th MEU (SOC) is commanded by Col. John W. Bullard and comprised of 2,200 Marines and sailors.

The 11th MEU will remain in port for approximately nine days before continuing their routine six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf and Western Pacific regions.

 TPA-Media Release - uss exercise 130306.pdf (42.22 KB)