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    3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade and the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade begin annual command post exercise Yama Sakura 81 in Japan

    OKINAWA, JAPAN

    12.07.2021

    Story by Lt. Col. Caleb Eames 

    3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade   

    Beginning in 1982, Yama Sakura has focused on the defense of Japan with bilateral planning, coordination, and interoperability between JGSDF and U.S. military units, including 3D MEB and I Corps. This exercise highlights the continued commitment by both the United States and Japan to enhance American and Japanese combat readiness and integration while strengthening bilateral relationships.

    “Yama Sakura helps the 3D MEB and ARDB be more resilient and ready together. It is clear that we are stronger and more effective when we compete as a team. This command post exercise makes us more capable and more lethal. Although our daily objective is to prevent conflict, our adversaries should not take that to mean we will not be prepared for conflict. We will be ready and resilient together.” said Brig. Gen. Kyle Ellison, 3D MEB Commanding General. “Fighting and planning beside each other makes us better. Marines and our ARDB counterparts are united in our commitment to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.”

    The U.S.-Japan Alliance has served as a foundation for regional peace and security for more than 70 years allowing the United States and Japan to forge a relationship built on a shared vision of peace, prosperity, democracy and regional stability. Yama Sakura 81 is essential to maintaining peace and security in Japan and the Indo-Pacific region. Our two forces support a free and open Indo-Pacific united by shared values, interests, and commitment to mutual security.

    The 3D MEB, III Marine Expeditionary Force’s Fire Brigade, provides a forward-deployed command and control element that can rapidly react to counter aggression against Japan and other allies and partners as well as respond to crisis in the region.

    The ARDB deployed to work with 3D MEB on Camp Courtney, in Okinawa, Japan in 2019 and 2020 for previous Yama Sakura exercises, and is working with them again during YS 81.

    For questions regarding 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade participation in the exercise please call 3D Marine Expeditionary Brigade Communication Strategy at +81-80-8001-5429.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 12.07.2021
    Date Posted: 12.07.2021 03:42
    Story ID: 410579
    Location: OKINAWA, JP

    Web Views: 50
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN