Sailors and Marines commence Phoenix Express practical training in Souda Bay

04.28.2009

Courtesy Story

PHOENIX EXPRESS Exercise

Practical training exercises in cargo container inspection and visit, board, search and seizure began Phoenix Express 2009 in Souda Bay with Sailors and Marines from the U.S., Greece, Italy, and Morocco here April 27.

PE09 is a two week long exercise designed to strengthen regional maritime partnerships and is part of the overall U.S. Africa Command and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe — Commander, U.S Forces Africa — Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet theater security cooperation strategy to enhance regional stability in the region through increased interoperability and cooperation among participating countries in the region.

The training was split into two groups and was conducted by Greek servicemembers and the Maritime Expeditionary Security Team Helicopter Visit Board Search and Seizure team 4. American and Moroccan Sailors practiced cargo container inspection involving repelling and climbing while Italian and Greek service members cleared corners using simulated rounds during VBSS operations aboard Greek training ship, ARIS.

"It is important to know how each of the navies works in order to be effective and accomplish any mission," said Italian Lance Cpl. Antonio Cothonie, rifleman and VBSS security team coordinator.

PE09 expects to continue practical import training exercises through May 4 when several ships from participating countries will go underway in the Mediterranean for further exercises involving communications, maritime interdiction operations, search-and-rescue operations, division tactics, and medical training.

• Date Taken: 04.28.2009
• Date Posted: 04.28.2009 07:47
• Story ID: 32955