Romanians, U.S. Marines share time-forged tactics

Photo By Cpl. Ashton Buckingham | Romanian and U.S. Marines during a Naval Infantry workshop, where they shared their tactics and procedures with the only Romanian Marine battalion about tactics and troop leading procedures and how the U.S. Marines utilize there noncommissioned officers. The Romanians will take what they learned and adapt it in to their own procedures. (USMC photo by Lance Cpl. Ashton C. Buckingham)  

BABADAG, ROMANIA

01.30.2015

Story by Cpl. Ashton Buckingham 

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Europe and Africa     

BABADAG, Romania - Romanian and U.S. Marines wrapped up a week-long training exercise on Jan. 30, which focused on naval infantry squad-offensive tactics and procedures in Babadag, Romania.

The intensive instruction concentrated on troop-leading procedures, such as ambushes and movement-to-contact.

“It’s important that we learn from one another to improve our skill sets since the U.S. Marines are more experienced in operations than we are,” said Romanian Corporal 3rd Class Dascala Alexandru, a platoon leader with 307th Navel Infantry, referring to the U.S. Military record in current operations around the world.

Fostering relationships and refining combined tactics is an essential goal for NATO allies and partners, especially with the increasing unrest in Eastern Europe.

The workshop reviewed tactics and maneuvers in a classroom setting, ensuring all participants had an understanding of the basics. Once the initial phase was completed, Romanian and U.S. Marines, from the Black Sea Rotational Force, conducted the practical application of each procedure.

“The highlight of this week was when we broke through the social barrier,” said 2nd Lt. Ryan Mark, officer-in-charge of the U.S. Marine detachment. “It was really apparent when we did tactical-precision games and were able to experience their noncommissioned officers’ thoughts and thought processes on certain adverse, tactical situations.”

Through workshops, exercises and operations, the two nations are able to foster friendships and enhance cooperation, explained Ryan.
This training gives Romanians and U.S. service members experience working with one another, increasing unit cohesion for future operations.

“This is the only Marine regiment in all of Romania,” said Alexandru, a seven-year veteran. “I have been involved in almost every single operation we do with the (United States.) Each time I leave knowing something new that I can use to help my career.”

The two nations come together to form and foster relationships to create a united front.

“We have a saying here in Romania, ‘Where there is one, the strength is low; but where there are two, the power grows,’” said Alexandru.

• Date Taken: 01.30.2015
• Date Posted: 02.03.2015 07:18
• Story ID: 153368
• Location: BABADAG, RO