3d MEB, Australian soldiers work together on USS Juneau during Talisman Saber 2007
ABOARD USS JUNEAU (June 14, 2007) -- Side-by-side, Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade took the opportunity to work with soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment here June 14.
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/31A2DCE10462F21A852572FA00553E4E?opendocument
June 14, 2007; Submitted on: 06/14/2007 11:31:05 AM ; Story ID#: 200761411315
By Cpl. Kamran Sadaghiani, 31st MEU
The Marines and soldiers spent the day learning the technical skills needed to operate each other’s weapon systems as part of interoperability training between both forces in preparation for field training during Exercise Talisman Saber 2007. The exercise is designed for both U.S. and Australian forces to conduct joint operations ashore and train staff and commanders in crisis action planning for possible future operations.
The sessions began with the Australian soldiers from 2RAR, based out of Townsville Australia, practicing with the L14-A1 84mm recoilless rifle to hone and maintain their proficiency in effectively employing the weapon. During the training, the Marines joined to participate in the learning experience.
Marine Lance Cpl. Ryan Graal, an assault man with the MEU, was given the opportunity to partake in the training of the Australian L14 A1 and felt a certain degree of satisfaction with their experience.
“The best part was working with these soldiers and interacting with them only to find out that they’re not much different from us,” said Graal, a Chicago native.
The Marines returned the favor by introducing their Australian brothers to the MK-153 shoulder-launched multi-purpose assault weapon, which has similar capabilities to the L14 A1. They also gave their Australian counterparts an interactive class on firing the assault weapon.
For Australian Army Pvt. Arnel Gray, a grenadier with 2RAR, working with the Marines for the first time was intriguing.
“I was fascinated by the Marines’ weapon systems,” said Gray. “It was interesting to hold the SMAW and learn about its different capabilities.”
Throughout their stay aboard the Juneau, 2RAR soldiers will be receiving additional orientation from Marines on operating assault amphibian vehicles and how the MEB’s combat service support element functions.
“It’s good cross training,” said Australian Army Cpl. Kavin Lomax. “I am looking forward to develop a working relationship and learn from each other.”
Graal echoed Lomax’s feelings that he too is eager to be working along with his counterparts.
“This training evolution should be a constructive learning experience,” said Graal. “Because the way we both operate is so similar, I’m sure the U.S. Marines and the Australian soldiers will mesh real easy when we start training together in the upcoming days.”
As a light infantry element, the soldiers of 2RAR do not use mechanized vehicles, so coming aboard an U.S. amphibious ship and working with the Marines and Sailors is a great learning opportunity to expand their knowledge base, explained Australian Army 1st Lt. Simon Ashley-Bunn, a light infantry platoon commander with 2RAR.
More than 20,000 U.S. and 12,000 Australian personnel will participate in Talisman Saber which will enhance interoperability and regional stability.