MCPON Discusses Past, Present, and Future of Amphibious Capabilities During Visit to ACU 5

CAMP PENDLETON, CA, UNITED STATES

07.12.2019

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Natalie Byers 

Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet           

CAMP PENDLETON – The steady rumble of an amphibious landing craft approaching shore – it’s an image forever associated with the largest amphibious military operation in history: the invasion of Normandy by Allied forces in 1944.

More than 75 years ago, amphibious capabilities of the United States Navy and Marine Corps were key to the success of Allied Nations in the European and Pacific Theaters.

Three-quarters of a century later, amphibious capabilities are just as relevant explained Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith during a visit to Assault Craft Unit 5 (ACU), July 12.

Smith, who recently toured the historic landing sites of Normandy, France, described the impact of hearing, first-hand the accounts and recollections of the Sailors and Soldiers who made the largest amphibious assault in history possible.

“At Normandy over a million troops floated over the beach over the course of that operation, and it was tremendous to hear the inspiring stories of the survivors,” he said.

MCPON stressed that effort of every member on the team, especially in the realm of amphibious operations, is paramount to success and that amphibious operations are just as important today as they were in the past, if not more so.

“The opportunity to bring more troops to shore, being able to push further ahead and get that initial foothold in an area is so important,” he said. “I can’t think of a time where amphibious readiness was more relevant than it is today."

During his time at ACU 5, Smith highlighted the significance of a well working Navy-Marine Corps team during an all-hands call and also observed a landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) demonstration.

“I think it's amazing what the Sailors here at ACU 5 do with the LCACs," he said. “I am just amazed at what [they] are doing and I am so glad that I got the chance to come out and see firsthand. In today’s anticipated fight, with whomever it may be, your amphibious capability is going to be extremely essential to winning the fight. The only team that is equipped to do that is the Navy and Marine Corps team.”

U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy. U.S. 3rd Fleet works constantly with U.S. 7th Fleet to complement one another and provide commanders capable, ready assets across the spectrum of military operations in the Pacific.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c3f/.

• Date Taken: 07.12.2019
• Date Posted: 07.15.2019 21:36
• Story ID: 331469
• Location: CAMP PENDLETON, CA, US