CAMP MUJUK, POHANG, Republic of Korea - Korean Marine Exchange Program 13-10 concluded June 28 at Camp Mujuk, Pohang, Republic of Korea.
KMEP 13-10 was a joint training exercise with the purpose of improving teamwork and strengthening the bond between the U.S. Marine Corps and Republic of Korea Marine Corps.
The two units participating in the exercise were ROK Marines with 1st ROK Marine Corps Division and U.S. Marines with Company A, 3rd Law Enforcement Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.
“A good relationship between our countries is essential,” said U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Amy R. Ebitz, the commanding officer of 3rd LE Bn. “We need to be able to trust each other and work well as a team in case we are ever in combat together. That’s why training like this is important and essential.”
During the exchange, the U.S. Marines demonstrated several techniques used by 3rd LE Bn. The training included practicing nonlethal methods of apprehending and transporting suspects, Taser and oleoresin capsicum spray training along with safety and firing procedures for selected weapons systems.
The ROK Marines were very happy to accommodate to the U.S. Marines during the exercise, according to ROK Marine Lt. Col. Ryu Sang Hyun, the commanding officer of the 1st ROK Marine Corps Division.
They learned from each other and enjoyed every opportunity to work together.
“Throughout this exercise, we were able to better our own tactics,” said Hyun. “The U.S. Marines went through the same training at the same time as the ROK Marines. Whether they were being shot with a Taser or sprayed with OC spray, they trained by their side.”
Although the Marines built camaraderie through the training, more was developed during the time spent together outside of military obligations.
“The Marines spent more time than just training together,” said Hyun. “They had fun and ate together, while sharing their culture and experiences.”
After KMEP 13-10 ended, both the ROK and U.S. Marines were confident in their military police abilities, according to U.S. Marine 1st Sgt. Oranjel A. Leavy, the first sergeant for Company A, 3rd LE Bn.
“These Marines have worked hard during the exercise,” said Leavy. “We’ve learned from each other, and our friendship is stronger because of this. I’m proud to see what they have accomplished, and I look forward to when we can train with the ROK Marines again.”