REMEMBER EVERYONE DEPLOYED, UNTIL THEY ALL COME HOME!!

Echoes of Valor: A Tribute to R.E.D. Friday

In crimson hues of setting sun, we gather near,
To honor those who bravely face the stormy fear.
On R.E.D. Friday, hearts united in respect,
For those who serve, their sacrifice we must reflect.

Through fields of strife, they march with steadfast grace,
Their valor shines, a beacon in the darkest space.
Through trials dire, they hold the line with pride,
Their courage, like a river, flows deep and wide.

With every step, they carry burdens heavy laid,
Yet never falter, never stray from duty’s shade.
Their stories etched in history’s sacred tome,
Echoes of heroism, guiding us toward home.

Though battles end, their legacy lives on,
In every heart that beats beneath the dawn.
For on R.E.D. Friday, we stand as one,
To honor, to remember, all that they have done.

So let us raise our voices high, in song and praise,
For those who walk through fire’s blazing maze.
Their courage, like a flame, forever burns bright,
Guiding us through the shadows of the night.

On R.E.D. Friday, we bow our heads in awe,
Grateful for the ones who answer duty’s call.
For in their sacrifice, we find our strength anew,
To carry on the legacy, forever true.

Specialized Marine Unit Concludes Extended Deployment in Response to Israel-Hamas Conflict

In a recent announcement by the Navy, it was revealed that the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, a special operations-capable element, and the Navy’s Bataan Amphibious Ready Group are finishing up a longer-than-expected deployment in the Mediterranean. This deployment originally began in response to tensions arising from the Israel-Hamas war.

Initially deployed in July, nearly eight months ago, the unit’s mission was to deter Iranian aggression against commercial shipping vessels near the Persian Gulf. However, following an attack by Hamas on Israel in October, the group swiftly transitioned to the Mediterranean to serve as a deterrent force.

The Bataan ARG’s deployment, which includes the USS Carter Hall and USS Mesa Verde, has been extended twice due to concerns about the readiness of the Navy’s amphibious fleet. When asked about future deployments, the Department of Defense declined to provide details, emphasizing that all force posture decisions are made at that level.

Upon their return to Norfolk, Virginia, and Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, in the coming weeks, sailors and Marines will bring back with them the valuable experiences gained during their time in the U.S. 5th and U.S. 6th Fleet regions. Commodore Capt. Martin Robertson praised the efforts of the Bataan ARG and 26th MEU(SOC) in showcasing their unique capabilities as a response force to allies and partners.

The 26th MEU stands out as the only special operations-capable Marine air-ground task force in the Corps, underscoring the importance of their contributions during this deployment alongside the Bataan ARG.