Singapore Navy, US Marines integrate in Jungle Training

Photo By Lance Cpl. Mike Granahan | Sgt. Joshua Margolies, a team leader 3rd Recon discusses different standard operating procedures when crossing a linear danger area with Andy J. Aeria an assistant patrol leader with Singapore’s Naval Dive Unit Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, III Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force conduct joint reconnaissance and surveillance training with the Republic of Singapore Naval Diving Unit Jan 11. during Exercise Sandfisher 12.  

SINGAPORE

01.11.2012

Story by Lance Cpl. Mike Granahan 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

SINGAPORE - Marines with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force conducted joint reconnaissance and surveillance training with the Republic of Singapore Naval Diving Unit Jan 11. during exercise Sandfisher 12.

Exercise Sandfisher is a bilateral training exercise between Singapore Armed Forces and the U. S. Marine Corps, the event enables the two militaries to interact face to face fostering increased interoperability and enhanced collective military readiness.

The two forces explained to one another their procedures for moving in from the ocean onto a beach, and crossing linear danger areas. Then the two forces proceeded to compare and contrast the different methods and procedures, creating an environment where they can operate together proficiently avoiding confusion.

“We learned some of their standard operating procedures and taught them some of ours. Then, we ironed out the differences so that we can work together,” Sgt. Joshua Margolies, a team leader with 3rd Recon Bn.

Once the wrinkles were smoothed out Marines and the Naval Diving Unit conducted joint maneuvers.

Another element of training included working with communication gear, the Marines explained how their radio equipment is used to assist the Republic of Singapore Naval Diving Unit.

“We use very different gear, some of theirs is better than ours and vice versa,” said Cpl. Lyss. “I was impressed with Singapore’s Navy, I showed them once and from there they figured it out.”

The ability to conduct training operations in Singapore is a unique opportunity for Marines as well as the Navy divers they work side by side with, said Petty Officer 1st Class Donald Minor, a diving medical technician and supervisor for the exercise. “The Navy divers are always very professional and accommodating to work with.”

• Date Taken: 01.11.2012
• Date Posted: 01.18.2012 21:26
• Story ID: 82537
• Location: SG