On September 6, 2024, the CVB community stands united in its support of U.S. service members, as recent events underscore the critical importance of our collective solidarity. From the assault on Marines in Izmir, Turkey, to the new MRO operations for the USS Wally Schirra, and the multinational training exercises in Indonesia, this week highlights both challenges and advancements in military readiness.
Just days ago, on September 2, two U.S. Marines were assaulted in Izmir, Turkey, by a group with anti-American sentiments. Thankfully, the Marines are safe, and local authorities are actively investigating the incident, showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Simultaneously, the USS Wally Schirra arrived at Geoje Shipyard in South Korea for an overhaul. This project, secured under the Master Ship Repair Agreement, reflects the U.S. Navy’s strategic partnerships and reliance on allied support to maintain operational readiness.
Further strengthening international ties, the U.S. Marines of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Division, participate in Super Garuda Shield 2024 in Indonesia. This exercise emphasizes the significance of interoperability with allied forces, enhancing readiness and response capabilities across the Indo-Pacific region.
These events serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and support essential to our armed forces. As we wear red this Friday, let us honor and remember the dedication of our deployed troops, ensuring they feel our unwavering support from home.
**CVB Community Stands United in Concern for Assaulted US Marines**
In a deeply troubling incident, two U.S. Marines from the USS Wasp were assaulted during a port visit in Izmir, Turkey, on September 2, 2024. The CVB community shares a profound concern for the safety of these service members and remains vigilant in its support for all deployed military personnel.
The Marines, dressed in civilian attire, were attacked by a group of two women and 13 men, all members of the Turkish Youth Group—a nationalistic organization linked to the anti-American Turkish “Vatan Party.” The attack occurred amidst the Marines’ routine visit to the city, raising alarms about the safety of U.S. military personnel abroad.
Thankfully, the swift response of local authorities and fellow Marines ensured that the assaulted service members were safely evacuated. The U.S. Sixth Fleet confirmed that the Marines were unharmed and, after a thorough evaluation at a local hospital, returned to the USS Wasp.
The U.S. Embassy in Turkey, while confirming the incident, expressed gratitude for the rapid response of Turkish authorities and their ongoing investigation. Fifteen suspects have been taken into custody, and a judicial investigation is now underway.
The CVB community stands in solidarity with the Marines and their families, extending unwavering support as they continue to navigate the challenges of their deployment. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the collective responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of those who serve.
### U.S. Naval Vessel Undergoes Overhaul in South Korea
On September 3, 2024, the USNS Wally Schirra, a U.S. Navy dry cargo and ammunition ship, was welcomed at Hanwha Ocean’s Geoje Shipyard in South Korea for a scheduled three-month overhaul. The vessel, essential for delivering ammunition, food, and other supplies to U.S. ships at sea, will benefit from Hanwha Ocean’s advanced shipbuilding technology and infrastructure during this period.
The welcome ceremony was attended by over 50 officials from various organizations, including the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command Far East, South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and Geoje City. Hanwha Ocean, having secured the Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA), became the first Korean shipyard to undertake maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations for a U.S. Navy vessel.
A spokesperson from Hanwha Ocean expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing their commitment to providing high-quality MRO services. The shipyard also plans to expand its operations into the overhaul and upgrade market for ships it has built and exported to countries such as Indonesia and Thailand.
### Strengthening Military Alliances: U.S. Marines and Allies in Super Garuda Shield 2024
On August 28, 2024, U.S. Marines from Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Division conducted a live fire short bay range exercise near Puslatpur 5, Indonesia. This training event was part of Super Garuda Shield 2024, a major multinational military exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability between the U.S. Marines, the Japan Self Defense Force, and the Indonesian National Armed Forces.
As global military cooperation becomes increasingly vital, Super Garuda Shield 2024 highlighted the importance of seamless collaboration among allied forces. This exercise, the largest of its kind in the Indo-Pacific region, focused on improving coordination, overcoming communication barriers, and building trust among participating nations.
Sgt. Giovanni Correa, a reconnaissance Marine, emphasized the necessity of working with international partners: “Training with allies is crucial because U.S. service members might be deployed anywhere in the world. It’s important to build trust and adapt to working with forces where language may not be a common factor.”
The short bay range exercise provided a platform for refining joint tactics and addressing potential communication gaps. Capt. Nathaniel Armendaris, a U.S. Marine expeditionary ground reconnaissance officer, noted the exercise’s focus on practical skills: “Patrolling in dense vegetation requires quick reactions and establishing fire superiority, which are critical skills in real-world scenarios.”
One significant challenge faced during the exercise was the language barrier, which affected communication during amphibious operations and live fire drills. Despite these obstacles, the exercise aimed to develop effective signal plans and improve communication at all levels.
Super Garuda Shield 2024 also had broader implications for regional security. By strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation, the exercise not only prepared participating forces for joint operations but also served as a deterrent to potential adversaries. “The exercise enhances our readiness and establishes a baseline for interoperability with strategic allies in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Armendaris.
The exercise underscored the critical importance of military interoperability in addressing global challenges. By refining joint tactics and strengthening international military relationships, Super Garuda Shield 2024 demonstrated the value of collaborative training in maintaining stability and responding effectively to crises in the Indo-Pacific region.
