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2nd MEB supports president's visit to Egypt, Jordan

Marine Corps News

Release Date: 6/6/2003

Story by Gunnery Sgt. Yolanda Mayo

USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3) at sea in the Gulf of Aqaba (June 5, 2003) -- For the past two days, Marines from the 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Sailors aboard the KEARSARGE have been on stand by--stand by to support the President of the United States.

While on their way home after their participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Commanding General of 2nd MEB, Brig. Gen. Richard F. Natonski, received the orders to assume the additional duty as the commander for Combined Task Force 52.

"Everyone was really looking forward to the port call," said Lance Cpl. Patrick Wilson, from North Myrtle Beach, S.C., an administration clerk with G-1, "although we are disappointed, we still had to do our job."

CTF-52's mission was to provide security and support to the President of the United States as he visited Sharm el-Shehk, Egypt, and Aqaba, Jordan, to meet with Arab leaders. CTF-52 was to provide a means for emergency extraction, early warning of airborne threats, and emergency offshore medical care to President Bush, should it be required.

Liaison officers were given two days to prepare for the mission. Preparations included, assigning a ground mission commander. Lt. Col. Brent Donahoe, commanding officer of 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, was selected. He geared up more than 400 Marines from his unit and 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Bn. to make up a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and or Personnel Force. Coordination also had to be made for five Cobras and six CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters to be ready at a moment's notice.

President Bush took time out of his schedule to personally thank Brig. Gen. Natonski and the members of the 2nd MEB for their support during his visit and for their exemplary performance in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Natonski was pleased with the outstanding performance and quick response of the Marines and Sailors under his command.

"This was an all hands effort," said Brig. Gen. Natonski. "For the last two days there was probably no more important mission in the world than providing support for our Commander in Chief."