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JGSDF, Yokosuka Security Participate in Guard and Protect Exercise

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100304-06
Release Date: 3/4/2010 12:08:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mike Mulcare, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Det. Japan

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) security and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), 2nd Company, 13th Infantry Regiment worked together during the cooperative Guard and Protect exercise March 3-4 within the confines of CFAY.

The annual exercise teamed CFAY Security with 120 members of the JGSDF to address a variety of scenarios.

"The various scenarios are designed to enhance communication between the JGSDF and CFAY security, in case we need each other's support in defense of our bases," said Lt. Antoine Thornton, CFAY security officer.

The exercise included a "suspicious person" scenario where a Sailor played the role of a suspect and was intercepted and apprehended. Exercise participants also enjoyed a live-fire scenario and cultural exchange.

Thornton said it is essential that the two forces train scenarios together, because it allows them both to work out any shortfalls in advance, so in the event of a real threat they can operate as a cohesive and efficient team.

For members of the CFAY security team, the exercise was a chance to enhance interoperability by working with their Japanese counterparts in defensive counter measure scenarios.

"I think this was a great way to interact with the JGSDF," said Master-At-Arms 1st Class (AW) David Menke, leading petty officer of security training. "I'm confident that if something ever goes wrong, we can handle it together."

"I think that during the exercise we shared information well and we achieved a good mutual understanding between both of our forces," said JGSDF Maj. Shin Taniguchi.

Guard and Protect concluded with a cultural exchange where all participants enjoyed a taiko drum performance, karate demonstrations and calligraphy writing.

"It's a benefit to meet any new faces from the JGSDF, share personal experiences and to work with them as a team," said Thornton.