CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan -- U.S. Marines and Sailors with 3rd Marine Logistics Group participated in Marine Expeditionary Force Exercise 19 (MEFEX 19) at Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, from April 22 through May 9.
MEFEX is a command post exercise that allows III Marine Expeditionary Force commanders and their staffs to practice command and control within a notional scenario. The exercise provides an opportunity for each section within III MEF to practice their capabilities and teamwork.
Marines with Communications Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd MLG, worked to develop proper networking capabilities during the exercise in order to effectively transfer information between sections and to help the operation run smoothly.
“Communications allows information to be passed between the Marines, as well as tracking movements and requesting gear,” stated Staff Sgt. Alex Arnold, the networking chief with Networking Platoon, Comm. Co. “Communications is a vital part to our units.”
Arnold, a native of Columbus, Georgia, supported 3rd MLG during MEFEX 19 by overseeing all of the communication networks used by 3rd MLG service members.
During the exercise, networking Marines provided a way for service members to connect to necessary computer systems. It was their job to repair and replace computer equipment in the case of any malfunctions. They worked together to achieve their mission.
“We split up the [more experienced] Marines and the newer Marines, who were still improving their networking skills. This gave all of the Marines an opportunity to grow together, while still getting the job done,” explained Arnold.
According to Arnold, the exercise provided his Marines the opportunity to strengthen their communications skills in order to better support 3rd MLG.
“The exercise gave the Marines a chance to gain a lot more hands-on experience with the gear,” said Arnold. “I’m glad we got the opportunity to improve our skills.”