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Germantown Offloads 31st MEU

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS111023-02
10/23/2011

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Spencer Mickler, Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- The forward-deployed dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) arrived at Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Republic of the Philippines Oct. 22 to begin Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 2012.

PHIBLEX is an annual bilateral exercise comprised of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

"We're proud to be here in support of the 31st MEU and the Philippine Marines," said Cmdr. Carol McKenzie, commanding officer, Germantown. "PHIBLEX is an important exercise that allows us to train with our Philippine allies,"

Germantown offloaded Marines of the 31st MEU along with vehicles and equipment for the exercise shortly after pulling into Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

During PHIBLEX, Marines of the 31st MEU, and Marines of the AFP will conduct bilateral amphibious unit training, small boat training, as well as community relations, engineering and medical/dental civil action programs at various locations. Concurrently, the ARG will be providing support while at sea.

"The ship's support is critical to our success at PHIBLEX," said Capt. John Dalby, Germantown Marine commander of troops. "It's exercises like this that solidify the importance of interoperability with our allies and between the blue-green team."

This is the 28th time the Philippines have hosted PHIBLEX.

"The U.S. and the Philippines have had a long standing relationship for many years," said Capt. Bradley Lee, commodore, Amphibious Squadron 11. "Our participation during PHIBLEX demonstrates our commitment to mutual security and our long time partnership with the Republic of the Philippines."

The Essex ARG consists of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) and Germantown.