Reserves in the Pacific

SOUTH CHINA SEA

12.04.2018

Story by Lance Cpl. Marcus Allen 

3rd Marine Division     

USNS Millinocket – 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment is active and deployed to Indo-Pacific Command to conduct multiple exercises across the region.
As part of Marine Forces Reserve, 2/23 is headquartered in Pasadena, Calif. and is comprised of Marines from all over the country. Reserve Marines have regularly operated alongside the active component since World War I. As a reserve unit, 2/23 provides strategic depth to the active duty forces by acting as an essential shock absorber in today’s uncertain geopolitical environment.
According to Battalion Sgt. Maj. Alberto A. Toscano, the unit was activated to show the capabilities of the reserve battalion in a deployed environment. The Marines will train with America’s allies all around the Pacific theater.
2/23, and Marine Forces Reserve as a whole, are composed of well-equipped, highly-trained, competent professionals who seamlessly integrate with the active forces to enhance their operational reach and endurance.
“We go through all the same training and do all the same things on this deployment as any Unit Deployment Program unit would,” said Battalion Commander Lt. Col. David Ortiz.
2/23 not only possess all the capabilities of a regular infantry battalion, but the Marines of 2/23 also utilize their unique civilian experiences while on deployment.
“The reservists bring a lot to the table,” said Toscano, “not only their Marine Corps Military Occupational Specialty, but they also bring their civilian knowledge. When it comes down to a reserve infantryman, he might be a welder, or he might be a police officer or he might be a business man. You bring a lot to the table as far as maturity in that aspect.”
For the first time in 13 years, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment is active and deployed to the Indo-Pacific region. They will conduct multiple bilateral training exercises in various countries to improve their combat readiness and strengthen international relationships.

• Date Taken: 12.04.2018
• Date Posted: 12.04.2018 02:50
• Story ID: 302113
• Location: SOUTH CHINA SEA