U.S. Pacific Command Regional News

USS Nimitz Visits Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:12:37 GMT

ANDAMAN SEA - The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group arrived in Kuala Lumpur (KL) for a four day port visit Feb. 7.

U.S., Republic of Korea Militaries Bring Smiles to Thai Orphans

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:12:04 GMT

PATTAYA, Thailand - To the children exploring the halls and rough housing on the playground, the Mercy Center is much more than just a location. It is a gift; a second chance.

22 Senior Leaders Complete the Transnational Security Cooperation Course

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:11:10 GMT

HONOLULU, Hawaii - Twenty-two Fellows from 21 countries in the Asia-Pacific region will complete the Transnational Security Cooperation Course (TSC10-1) Friday, Feb. 5, 2010.

Class Familiarizes US, Thai Soldiers with Non-lethal Weapons

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:10:27 GMT

FORT SURASEE, Thailand - The non-lethal weapons training during Cobra Gold 2010 gave American Soldiers and Royal Thai Army soldiers a chance to familiarize themselves with the various types of non-lethal weapons and when to use them.

USS Essex Participates in Cobra Gold 2010

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:37:50 GMT

GULF OF THAILAND - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived off the coast of Thailand Feb. 1 to take part in exercise Cobra Gold 2010 (CG 10).

Kadena Goes Green to Save Green

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:37:29 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - Those responsible for Kadena's 2009 Federal Energy and Water Management Award refuse to rest on their considerable laurels. On the contrary, the 718th Civil Engineer Squadron is continuing and advancing its efforts to meet the three percent reduction in energy use mandated across the command by Pacific Air Forces for fiscal year 2010.

U.S. Builds Ties at Singapore Air Show

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:01:13 GMT

CHANGI, Singapore - Dubbed "Too Hot To Miss," Asia's largest air show and one of the top three aerospace and defense exhibitions in the world started here.

Hickam, Pearl Harbor join installation support services, becomes Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 23:43:52 GMT

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM - Naval Station Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base held a ceremony to unveil Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam Jan. 31. The ceremony was held to mark the beginning of the transition period, called initial operational capability.

Air Force Firefighters Train with Japanese at Aviation Training Relocation

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 23:41:24 GMT

HYAKURI AIR BASE, Japan - During the aviation training relocation at Hyakuri Air Base, there are of course pilots, maintainers and jets. But some other specialties have made the trip to the small base north of Tokyo to experience the Japan Air Self Defense Force first-hand.

US, Japan, SKorea look at joint exercises: commander

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:08:04 GMT

WASHINGTON — South Korea and Japan, which historically have had uneasy ties, are considering their first three-way military exercises with the United States, a senior US officer said Tuesday.

USS Reuben James Delivers Project Handclasp Supplies to the Republic of Nauru

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:07:37 GMT

REPUBLIC OF NAURU - Deployed to the Seventh Fleet Area of Responsibility, USS Reuben James (FFG 57) visited the Republic of Nauru on Jan. 24.

USS Lake Erie Arrives in Sukumo

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:07:09 GMT

SUKUMO, Japan - The Ticonderoga class guided-missile Cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) arrived in Sukumo Feb. 1. Lake Erie received a very warm welcome from the citizens on the pier who played the Star Spangled Banner as the ship pulled into port.

Cobra Gold 2010 Opening Ceremony

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:19:29 GMT

Utapao, Thailand - "Cobra Gold 2010," the annual combined, joint exercise featuring armed forces of United States, Thailand and more than 20 other nations began Monday, Feb. 1, in Thailand's eastern province of Rayong.

Hickam Continues to Support Operation Unified Response

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:22:44 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Two C-17 Globemaster IIIs from the 15th Airlift Wing and one from the 204th Hawaii Air National Guard continue support efforts at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., conducting missions into Haiti.

Engineering Projects Begin in Thailand ahead of Cobra Gold Exercise

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:22:18 GMT

CHANTABURI PROVINCE, Thailand - Cobra Gold officially begins three weeks of training for six countries Feb. 1, but already U.S. and Thai troops are working together on engineering civil-assistance projects.

13th Air Force Leads Joint Task Force Operation Deep Freeze

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:18:46 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - People all over the globe are dealing with abnormally cold weather. Ask someone involved with Operation Deep Freeze about the bracing conditions of Chicago, New York and even Florida, and they may begin to shake their head and let out a chuckle. Operation Deep Freeze, Uses a 13th Air Force-led Joint Task Force responsible for the coordination of strategic airlift, field support airlift, emergency response and aeromedical evacuation.

Kadena Airmen Conduct Aviation Training with Japanese Counterparts

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:17:35 GMT

HYAKURI AIR BASE, Japan - Four F-15Cs and over 30 Airmen from the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base arrived today to Hyakuri Air Base about 70 miles northeast of Tokyo as part of the wing's latest aviation training relocation.

Pacific Angel 2010 Set to Begin with Philippines Outreach

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:10:16 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The United States will join local authorities in four South Asian and Pacific nations from February through August to provide medical, dental and engineering assistance as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2010.

U.S., ROK Train Side by Side in Simulated Exercise

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:50:17 GMT

CASEY GARRISON, South Korea - 'Manchus' from 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, trained alongside with some very special guests at the Close Combat Tactical Trainer facility on USAG-Casey.

13th Air Force Sharpens Skills During Keen Edge

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:49:56 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Members of 13th Air Force here tested and refined their ability to plan, command and control, and assess air, space and information operations in the Asia-Pacific region during Keen Edge 2010 Jan. 22-27.

Korean Students Learn English on Casey

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:49:28 GMT

CASEY GARRISON, South Korea - Soldiers from the 1-15 Field Artillery, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division welcomed children from various schools in the Dongducheon City community as they came to learn more English and learn about American culture during the Dream English Camp Jan. 8 held on USAG-Casey. More than 60 middle school students came to the event.

National Intelligence Medal for Valor Posthumously Awarded to 1st Lt. Roslyn L. Schulte

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 02:07:59 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Air Force 1st Lt. Roslyn L. Schulte was posthumously awarded the National Intelligence Medal for Valor Jan. 22 for her courageous efforts to teach Afghan military officials how to gather and interpret military intelligence. She died last May in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device struck her vehicle en route to a Bagram Airfield meeting on the very issue that powers the IC: sharing intelligence.

Australia to Deploy Niche Capability to Haiti (Australian Dept of Defence)

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:30 GMT

The Australian Government has approved the deployment of Defence Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) to earthquake ravaged Haiti, after a request from the United States.

Safety Hosts Mid-Air Collission Avoidance Conference

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 23:57:47 GMT

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan - The 374th Airlift Wing Safety Office, teaming with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association-Japan (AOPA-J) hosted more than 140 Japanese civil, government, and military pilots and controllers at the Kanto Plain Mid-Air Collision Avoidance (MACA) Conference, held at the Taiyo Community Center, Jan. 10, to increase awareness and promote safety in the skies over Yokota Air Base, Tokyo, and the surrounding communities.

U.S., Japan Join Together for Exercise Keen Edge

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:16:20 GMT

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan - U.S. Air Force Airmen from Japan and other locations around the world joined their Japanese counterparts and sister services Jan. 22 to kick off the year's first bilateral exercise here.

USS Essex Embarks 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit for Spring Patrol

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:15:54 GMT

OKINAWA, Japan - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) on-loaded more than 1,100 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Jan. 22-24 in preparation for the ship's annual spring patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

U.S. Navy Aircraft Locates Missing Chinese Vessel Near Guam

Sat, 23 Jan 2010 02:06:57 GMT

GUAM - U.S. Navy airmen onboard a P-3 “Orion” aircraft detected a People’s Republic of China fishing vessel in distress off the coast of Guam shortly before midnight Jan. 20.

Filipino General to Lead UN Forces in Golan Heights (ABS-CBN)

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 22:22:57 GMT

WASHINGTON DC - A Filipino Marine general with a distinguished military pedigree and who once commanded President Arroyo’s guard battalion will take over the United Nations peacekeeping force in the Golan Heights, the Philippine Mission to the United Nations announced.

U.S., Japan Forces Celebrate as Alliance Reaches Half-Century Mark

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:10:01 GMT

TOKYO - Fifty years ago the U.S. and Japan signed a security treaty that has outlasted 10 U.S. presidents and 22 Japan prime ministers, and it shows no signs of slowing down yet.

Army Takes on CAT Palau for First Time in a Decade

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 23:50:00 GMT

SANTA RITA, Guam - Sailors of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 1 with Civic Action Team (CAT) Palau turned over Camp Katuu to the U.S. Army team from 130th Engineering Battalion during a ceremony in the Republic of Palau Jan. 15.

Gates: Syndicate Threatens to Destabilize South Asia

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 23:33:31 GMT

NEW DELHI - An al-Qaida-backed terror syndicate is focused on destabilizing South Asia and stoking tensions between India and Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told reporters Jan. 20.

PACAF Aircraft Depart to Assist Haiti Relief Effort

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:01:39 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Pacific Air Forces deployed seven C-17 Globemaster III aircraft Jan. 19 to Charleston AFB, S.C., to support the U.S. military's Haitian relief effort, Operation Unified Response.

USS Reuben James Deploys to the Western Pacific

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:59:57 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - More than 250 Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Reuben James (FFG 57) departed Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a deployment to the Western Pacific Jan. 15.

Forward, Together (The Times of India)

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:54:06 GMT

Two years ago, during my first visit to India as the United States secretary of defence, i was struck by how much our relationship had improved since i was last in government in the early 1990s.

Singapore Takes Command of Multinational Counter-Piracy Task Force (Singapore Ministry of Defence)

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:59:05 GMT

Singapore took over command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, a multinational counter-piracy task force, from the United States (US) in a ceremony held on board the US Navy destroyer, USS Hopper, in Bahrain Jan. 20.

USS Patriot Departs for Extended Patrol

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 20:31:58 GMT

SASEBO, Japan - The mine countermeasures ship USS Patriot (MCM 7) departed Sasebo for a five-month patrol, Jan. 19th, an extended deployment for a small ship

JSOTF-P Seabees Construct Schools; Build Relationships

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 20:18:27 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Thirty Seabees serving with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines are assisting with infrastructure projects to form lasting bonds and improve the lives of thousands of Filipinos.

Gates Presses for U.S.-Indian Cooperation

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 22:21:39 GMT

NEW DELHI, India - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today, Jan. 19, emphasized the opportunity and the need for closer defense cooperation between the United States and India in a broad range of areas, including the maritime, cyberspace and space domains.

Navy Celebration Marks 50th Anniversary of U.S.-Japan Security Treaty

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:25:01 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - Sailors from the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) celebrated the anniversary of their alliance Jan. 19 at ceremony at the JMSDF Yokosuka District headquarters, 50 years to the day after the signing of the treaty that binds them together.

Japan-America Society of Yokosuka Visits Lassen

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:24:31 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - Board members of the Japan-America Society of Yokosuka were given a tour of the forward-deployed destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) Jan. 13 at its forward-deployed port of Yokosuka, Japan.

Cobra Gold 2010 to Build on 29 Years of Dynamic Training

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:37:51 GMT

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii - Cobra Gold, the largest multinational exercise in the world, begins its 29th year of joint training and cooperation among six countries in the Asia-Pacific Theater in Thailand on Feb. 1. Participating nations include Thailand, the United States, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

Kadena Air Base Fighter Squadron Participates in Red Flag Exercise

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 21:37:04 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - Airmen and weapons systems from around the world, to include 12 F-15 Eagles and more than 160 personnel from Kadena's 44th Fighter Squadron, will converge on Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., from Jan. 18 to Feb. 5 to participate in Red Flag, the world's preeminent aerial combat training exercise.

7th Fleet CDR; U.S.-Japan Alliance is Cornerstone of Security in Asia

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:29:00 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-Japan security treaty, the U.S. Navy's senior commander in the Western Pacific called the alliance the "cornerstone of peace and stability throughout the Asia-Pacific region."

Wolf Pack Kicks Off First Exercise of 2010

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:40:43 GMT

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea - Wolf Pack members kicked off the first exercise of 2010 early Jan. 11. The exercise, a week-long peninsula-wide operational readiness exercise, tests Kunsan's ability to fulfill the three parts of their mission ... defend the base, accept follow-on forces and take the fight north.

JSOPTS-P and Task Force Sulu Partner Treat Patients and Animals

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 20:38:46 GMT

SULU, Philippines - Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Marine Battalion Landing Team-3-with assistance from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines-treated 135 patients and 31 farm animals in Barangay (community) Asin, located in the Panamao municipality Jan. 7.

USS North Carolina to Homeport in Pearl Harbor

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 20:51:42 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet announced Jan. 6 that USS North Carolina (SSN 777) will be the third Virginia-class submarine homeported at Naval Station Pearl Harbor.

Kadena Airmen Helped Cleanup throughout Local Communities

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:10:29 GMT

Hundreds of Kadena volunteers helped cleanup throughout local residents over the past several weeks.

Elmendorf AF Base Applauded for Aeronautics Achievements

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 18:45:04 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska - "I am confident my 'Arctic Warriors' from Alaska are poised and ready to demonstrate strength in the Pacific at a moment's notice," said Gen. Gary North, Pacific Air Forces commander, as he endorsed the 3rd Wing for the Pacific Air Forces' 2009 Collier Trophy.

JSOTF-P Members Partnership With AFP Hospital Patients

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:21:11 GMT

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - A dozen members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, along with members of a local Baptist church, spent Christmas Eve singing and praying with patients at Western Mindanao Command's Camp Navarro General Hospital Dec. 24.

Recovery Act Money Funds New Photovoltaic Systems at Pearl Harbor

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:18:45 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Hawaii awarded a $15.2 million, firm-fixed price task order Dec. 30 to Niking Corporation, Wahiawa, Hawaii, to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on top of five Navy buildings around Pearl Harbor, including the Navy Exchange and Commissary.

USS Lake Erie Arrives in Hong Kong

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:55:45 GMT

HONG KONG -Guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) arrived in Hong Kong for a port visit Dec. 28. The ship is on deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

JSOTF-P Conducts Bomb Training with the Philippine National Police

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 19:31:24 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Three members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines taught more than 40 officers from the Philippine National Police techniques for identifying homemade bombs in Zamboanga del Norte province Dec 22-23.

JSOTF-P, AFP, Local Governments Build Area Coordination Centers

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:09:52 GMT

SULU, Philippines - Armed Forces of the Philippines, local officials and members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines came together to dedicate two Area Coordination Centers in Sulu province Dec. 15 and Dec. 17.

JSOTF-P’s Forward Surgical Team Making a Difference in Southern Philippines

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:09:25 GMT

SULU, Philippines - On the southern island of Jolo, Philippines five members of the U.S. Air Force are operating a fully-equipped trauma center, providing emergency care, basic medical care and educational services to hundreds of Filipino and U.S. troops.

Operation Goodwill Gives Hope to Children, Families in the Philippines

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:04:04 GMT

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines - Marines from III Marine Expeditionary Force and their Philippine Marine Corps counterparts are delivering tons of toys, clothes, baby items and essentials to different locations here and in Angeles City, Philippines, the week of Dec. 14 during Operation Goodwill 2009.

Operation Christmas Drop Begins Delivery to Remote Islands

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 02:08:30 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - More than 12 months of preparation have gone into ensuring Operation Christmas Drop's Dec. 16-19 air drop mission goes smoothly, with countless fundraiser and many drop-off points made available to those wishing to donate supplies and help support Guam's island neighbors in the Marianas, Carolines, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands and the Federal States of Micronesia.

U.S.-South Korean Alliance Gains Strength

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:54:38 GMT

WASHINGTON - With a handover of the security lead looming on the horizon, the U.S.-South Korean security alliance has grown tighter this year in the wake of provocations by North Korea, the commander of U.S. forces in South Korea said today.

Air Force to Parachute 20+ Tons of Supplies to Pacific Islanders

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:34:50 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - U.S. Air Force C-130 aircraft will parachute more than 20 tons of donated items to Pacific Islanders throughout Micronesia during the 58th annual "Operation Christmas Drop" December 16-19.

86 Graduate from APCSS Advanced Security Cooperation Course

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 01:22:59 GMT

HONOLULU - Eighty-six senior military and civilian government leaders from 37 countries and territories graduated Dec. 10 from the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies “Executive Course: Advanced Security Cooperation.”

U.S. Army Officials Meet to Discuss 8th Army Transformation

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:15:25 GMT

YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea - U.S. Army officials met here Dec. 15 to discuss the 8th U.S. Army's role in the most significant transformation in the 60-year history of the Republic of Korea-United States Alliance.

Japan-U.S. Military Exercise Improves Readiness

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:15:00 GMT

CAMP HIGASHI-CHITOSE, Japan - On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-Japan mutual defense treaty, U.S. and Japanese forces successfully concluded a major exercise Dec. 13 here on Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan.

South Korea on Track to Assume Defense Lead

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:14:34 GMT

WASHINGTON - South Korea’s military is on track to assume the lead for its nation’s defense as scheduled a little more than two years from now, the top U.S. military officer posted there said here Dec. 14.

USARPAC Contingency Command Post Conducts First Exercise in Japan

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:03:59 GMT

CAMP HIGASHI-CHITOSE, Japan - The U.S. Army, Pacific Contingency Command Post took the operational lead for Exercise Yama Sakura 57, providing the groundwork for a successful bilateral exercise with the Northern Army of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.

JSOTF-P Servicemembers Stuff Holiday Stockings

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:45:33 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Dozens of members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines donated their time to stuff nearly 600 holiday stockings at JSOTF-P Camp Navarro headquarters Dec. 12.

Operation Christmas Drop to Reach Pacific Islanders

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:25:48 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - Volunteers from Andersen AFB and the local community participated in the final boxbuild here Dec. 5 for Operation Christmas Drop, the Air Force's longest on-going humanitarian airlift mission.

New Road Enhances Opportunity in Southern Philippines

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:41:00 GMT

JOLO, Philippines- - Hundreds of government leaders, representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines gathered for the opening of a new road in Barangay (community) Kandayok Nov. 28.

AFP, JSOTF-P Teach Disaster Awareness to Zamboanga Community Leaders

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:54:25 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Medical and chaplain staff from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines taught more than 70 Zamboanga community leaders best practices for disaster planning in Zamboanga City Dec. 3-4.

USS Mustin Departs Malaysia Following International Exhibition

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:54:00 GMT

USS MUSTIN, At Sea - Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) departed Langkawi, Malaysia, Dec. 5 after a five-day port visit in which the ship and crew participated in the annual Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) along with 93 other warships and vessels and 24 participating countries.

Japan-U.S. Military Exercise Opens in the Spirit of Friendship

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:53:30 GMT

CAMP HIGASHI-CHITOSE, Japan - On a bitterly cold December afternoon, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S. military opened Yama Sakura 57 in a ceremony that demonstrated the warmth of a 50-year friendship.

U.S. Navy, JMSDF Complete Anti-Submarine Warfare Training

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:52:51 GMT

PACIFIC OCEAN - Ships and Sailors of the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force completed the Ship Anti-Submarine Warfare Readiness and Evaluation Measurement (SHAREM) 163 exercise Dec. 7, off the coast of Okinawa, Japan.

South Korean College Students Learn about ROK-U.S. Alliance

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:34:59 GMT

YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea - South Korean college students were invited to Yongsan Garrison Dec. 3 to learn about the importance of the Republic of Korea-United States Alliance and the contributions of U.S. and South Korean servicemembers to local communities around the Korean Peninsula.

Malaysian Exercise Features MiGs, Promotes Ties with U.S.

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:58:39 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - U.S. and Malaysian Airmen are hailing the success of Cope Taufan, a live-flying exercise involving air combat training in Malaysia that took place Nov. 9 to 20.

AFP and JSOTF-P Unveil Shrine, Conduct Medical Outreach

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:59:59 GMT

SULU, Philippines - Hundreds of residents of Barangay (community) Danag now have a restored shrine and access to free medical care due to the collaborative efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Marine Battalion Landing Team-5 (MBLT-5), Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), and local residents who partnered for both projects in the region Nov. 28

Annual Program Introduces JGSDF Soldiers to U.S. Army Japan Operations

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:42:05 GMT

CAMP ZAMA, Japan - Approximately 15 members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force are experiencing daily life in the U.S. Army Oct. 7 through Dec. 18 during the U.S. Army Japan-JGSDF cooperative work program here.

Navy Announces Changes of Homeport for Submarine Force

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:34 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - Commander Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Rear Adm. Douglas McAneny announced Dec. 1 that the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) and the fast-attack submarines USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705) and USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723) will be changing homeports during 2010 and 2011.

Exercise Yama Sakura 57 Reunites USARPAC Soldier with Family in Japan

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:03 GMT

CAMP HIGASHI-CHITOSE, Japan - One United States Army, Pacific captain crossed boundaries of oceans and generations during Exercise Yama Sakara 57 when he walked into his uncle Masato Okudara's apartment in Tomokomai, Japan.

Agressors Train Guard Pilots

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:41:32 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - A mobile training team from the 18th Aggressor Squadron spent a week here providing unit-level training for Hawaii Air National Guard pilots.

JANAFA Honors US and Japan Sailors for Community Excellence

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:59:03 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - The Japan-U.S. Navy Friendship Association (JANAFA) honored four Sailors from the U.S. Navy during an award ceremony Nov. 25 for their efforts in promoting friendship between the U.S. Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

JSOTF-P Civil Affairs Company Earns AFP Medals for Philippines Work

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:14:08 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Sixteen members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) Civil Affairs Company received medals from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in ceremonies held in Manila and in Zamboanga City Nov. 23.

US Minesweepers Participate in Exercise with Republic of Korea Navy

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:33:41 GMT

CHINHAE, Republic of Korea - The mine counter-measures ships USS Defender (MCM 2), USS Guardian (MCM 5), USS Patriot (MCM 7) and Helicopter Minecountermeasures Squadron 14 (HM-14) are participating in exercise Clear Horizon, an annual, bilateral, mine counter-measures exercise conducted with the Republic of Korea.

Sailors Bring Thanksgiving to Yokohama Homeless

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:33:11 GMT

YOKOHAMA, Japan - Sailors and other volunteers from Fleet Activities Yokosuka's Yokohama Detachment volunteered to feed more than 200 homeless Japanese citizens from Yokohama's Kotobuki-cho area on Nov. 24.

2nd Infantry Division Debuts Warfighters' Simulation System During Exercise

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:44:03 GMT

CAMP CASEY, South Korea The 2nd Infantry Division recently became the first U.S. Army division to use the Warfighters' Simulation system during a command post exercise in South Korea.

AFP, JSOTF-P Teams Treat Hundreds During Medical Project

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:43:08 GMT

TAWI TAWI, Philippines -More than 400 patients were given free medical care through the cooperative efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) who teamed up to perform a Medical Civic Action Project (MEDCAP) in the Languyan municipality Nov. 21.

USS George Washington CSG Returns from Fall Deployment

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:39:23 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, Nov. 23, completing its second fall deployment since joining the Forward-Deployed Naval Forces last year.

Essex Returns to Sasebo After Fall Patrol

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:21:02 GMT

SASEBO, Japan - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) returned to Sasebo, Japan today following a successful fall patrol.

USS Mustin Arrives in Kota Kinabalu

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:24:29 GMT

KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia - Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) arrived in Kota Kinabalu Nov. 23.

Guam Simulator Enhances Warrior Skills Training for Airmen

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:10:49 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - The 36th Contingency Response Group recently added yet another capability to its ever-growing list of military assets.

AFP Medical Staff and JSOTF-P Teach Mental Health Classes

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:50:12 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Members of the Camp Navarro General Hospital and the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) Chaplain team taught more than 50 care providers crisis intervention management techniques at the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Nov. 16-18.

President Obama Holds Ttroop Rally at Osan Air Base

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:28:52 GMT

OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea - More than 1,500 airmen, soldiers, sailors and Marines from throughout South Korea had the opportunity to hear President Barack Obama speak, for the first time in Korea, at a troop rally here Nov. 19.

U.S. Airmen, Marines Train with Japan Air Self Defense Force

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:28:28 GMT

KOMATSU AIR BASE, Japan - Misawa Air Base Airmen, Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, and Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) members are working together here Nov. 13-201 during Komatsu Aircraft Training Relocation (ATR).

Blue Ridge Wraps Up Fall Deployment

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:28:02 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - More than 1,200 Sailors and Marines from USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), embarked 7th Fleet staff, and Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) returned to Yokosuka, Japan, Nov. 19, completing a two-month deployment throughout the Pacific Ocean.

USS Blue Ridge Celebrates 39th Birthday

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:51:36 GMT

USS BLUE RIDGE, At Sea - Sailors and Marines aboard USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) celebrated the ship's 39th birthday Nov. 14 with a ceremonial cake-cutting, a special meal and a rendition of "Happy Birthday" sung by the crew.

Air Force Flies Navy Dolphins to New Caledonia for Exercise

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:50:09 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Airmen aboard C-17 Globemaster IIIs from Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, transported dolphins from the Navy Marine Mammals Program in San Diego, Calif., to Noumea, New Caledonia, Nov. 8 to locate and dispose of more than 200 contact mines that were leftover from World War II.

Philippine Police, JSOTF-P Partner to Train First Responders

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:06:08 GMT

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines - Drawing upon years of real-life experience working with improvised explosive devices (IEDs), members from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) trained more than 100 first responders in the Zamboanga del Norte province Nov. 9-12.

U.S., Japanese Sailors Strengthen Ties During Annual Exercise

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:50:38 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea - George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) Sailors and embarked members of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) are working hand-in-hand during the Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 21G to improve interoperability between U.S. and Japanese forces.

Pacific Air Forces Commander Hosts Pacific Air Chiefs

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:38:16 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Gen. Gary North, Pacific Air Forces commander, hosted seven Pacific Air Chiefs for a conference, as part of the regional engagement mission of PACAF.

Vietnam Military Health, Logistics Reps Visit Hickam

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:37:46 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Six delegates from the Vietnam military's health and general logistics fields met with U.S. Air Force officials here Nov. 10 during a 13th Air Force-hosted visit.

Joint Typhoon Warning Center Marks 50 Years of Service

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:26:31 GMT

WASHINGTON - This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, a joint Navy and Air Force office that provides tropical cyclone reconnaissance and forecasting to support the safety of military and other government assets in the U.S. Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility.

Air Force General: U.S.-China Military Cooperation Key

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:37:38 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Progress in military-to-military cooperation between the United States and China will help both nations deal with common challenges to peace and prosperity, according to a senior U.S. Air Force commander speaking in Beijing Nov. 6.

Essex ESG Joins Bilateral Naval Exercise with Japan

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:57:52 GMT

PHILIPPINE SEA - Amphibious Squadron 11, USS Essex (LHD 2) and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) with embarked Marines got underway from White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 12 for an exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force.

USS George Washington Begins Annual Exercise with Japan

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:56:11 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At sea - USS George Washington (CVN 73) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 began their participation in military exercise ANNUALEX 21G Nov. 10.

Blue Ridge Delivers Goodwill during Vietnam Visit

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:44:59 GMT

DA NANG, Vietnam - USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked 7th Fleet Sailors delivered medical and hygiene supplies, sewing materials, school supplies and toys to residents in Da Nang, Vietnam, as part of Project Handclasp Nov. 7 during a scheduled port visit.

Lassen Visits Vietnam in Storybook Return of Its Commander

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:36:00 GMT

DA NANG, Vietnam - The guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82), commanded by a man who as a boy sought escape from those once war-torn Vietnamese homeland waters, arrived in Da Nang, Vietnam Nov. 7, for a scheduled port visit.

U.S. Navy Seabees, Local Residents Build School Together in Philippines

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:19:17 GMT

LANAO DEL SUR, Philippines - With the help of local contractors and school officials, service members from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1, assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P), are in the final stages of building classrooms at the Lanao Agricultural College.

Vietnamese-born U.S. Commander Humbled by Opportunity to Return to Birthplace

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 02:59:43 GMT

PACIFIC OCEAN - In a sign of strengthening relations between the United States and Vietnam, USS Lassen (DDG 82), commanded by Vietnamese-born Cmdr. H. B. Le, will make a historic goodwill port visit to Da Nang, Vietnam, Nov. 7.

U.S. 7th Fleet, JMSDF to Conduct Annual Naval Exercise

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:25:00 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - Ships, submarines and aircraft from the U.S. 7th Fleet will participate in a bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Nov. 10-18 in waters and airspace around Japan.

Sailors and Marines Team Up for Community Projects in Thailand

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 20:16:46 GMT

PHUKET, Thailand - Sailors and Marines from the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) took time to make a difference in Phuket, Thailand during three separate community service projects Oct. 31 through Nov. 2, during a scheduled port visit.

Strykehorse Battalion Visits Taj Mahal

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:36:57 GMT

AGRA, India - Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 14th Regiment, "Strykehorse," 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division made a memorable pit stop at one of the seven wonders of the world while traveling home from Exercise Yudh Abhyas 09, an annual bilateral field training exercise between the Indian and U.S. Army.

AFP, JSOTF-P Break New Ground in Isabela City, Philippines

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:21:22 GMT

BASILAN, Philippines - Members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines and government officials celebrated the construction of Isabela City’s first-ever Area Coordination Center during a ground-breaking ceremony Oct. 30.

Fighter Squadron Heads to Malaysia for Bilateral Exercise

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:01:26 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - Nearly 100 Airmen from the 67th Fighter Squadron are heading to Malaysia to participate in a joint exercise with the Royal Malaysian Air Force next Nov. 9-20.

Eighth U.S. Army Band Performs in China Tattoo

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:50:52 GMT

NANCHANG, China - Soldiers from the 8th U.S. Army Band performed in China Tattoo, with 53 Soldiers participating in the various shows which were conducted in Nanchang Oct. 24 - 31.

Philippines Agriculture Department, JSOTF-P Sign Agreement

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:19:17 GMT

DAVAO, Philippines - The Philippines Department of Agriculture and Joint Special Operations Task Force - Philippines (JSOTF-P) signed an agreement to share information and work together to improve agriculture-related, economic opportunities in Mindanao at a ceremony Oct 29.

AFP Engineers, JSOTF-P Dedicate New Philippines Road Construction Project

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 03:09:13 GMT

BASILAN, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P), dedicated the construction of the Tipo-Tipo-Sungkayot-Matata road during a ground-breaking ceremony Oct. 28.

U.S., Australian Boarding Teams Train Together During Deep Sabre II

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:00:37 GMT

SOUTH CHINA SEA - U.S. and Australian forces conducted joint training as part of exercise Deep Sabre II, Oct. 29, looking to sharpen their ship-boarding skills and enhance the two countries’ interoperability.

George Washington Arrives in Hong Kong for First Visit

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:46:17 GMT

HONG KONG - USS George Washington (CVN 73) anchored out in Victoria Harbor Oct. 29, as the ship made the first port call to Hong Kong in its 17-year history.

Navy Cope India Dubbed a Success

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:36:04 GMT

AIR FORCE STATION AGRA, India - U.S. and Indian air force officials are pleased with the positive results of all of the joint-training operations executed here during Cope India, Oct. 19-23.

Fitzgerald Arrives in Singapore for Exercise Deep Sabre II

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:04:27 GMT

SINGAPORE - The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) arrived in Singapore Oct. 26 for multinational exercise Deep Sabre II, a Proliferation Security Initiative Exercise.

Navy Ship Commanded By Vietnamese-American to Visit Vietnam

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:53:52 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - A U.S. Navy officer picked up as a boy off the coast of Vietnam by a U.S. Navy ship will return to Vietnam next month in command of one.

Sailors, Marines, Strengthen Ties with Philippine Forces

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:45:01 GMT

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines - Sailors from the forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ships USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) with embarked Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit recently concluded the bilateral Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) with the armed forces of the Philippines.

First Mechanized Exercise Yudh Abhyas Closes in India

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:42:32 GMT

CAMP BABINA, India - Exercise Yudh Abhyas, an annual bilateral battalion-level field training exercise between the Indian and U.S. Armies, and the largest deployment of Strykers outside of Iraq and Afghanistan for Pacific Rim Forces, concluded with a ceremony at the Babina Indian Army base, Oct. 27.

Training Strengthens Bonds Between Indian, U.S. Soldiers

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:06:31 GMT

CAMP BABINA, India - Despite a diversity of equipment and missions, Indian and U.S. Army Soldiers found common ground while training together during Yudh Abhyas, an annual bilateral multi-echelon battalion level exercise with a focus on peacekeeping operations, this year in its first mechanized iteration.

AFP, Lions Club and JSOTF-P Partner to Provide Medical Care

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:51:18 GMT

COTABATO CITY, Philippines - Combining resources and skills from multiple organizations, service members assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) assisted with a medical civic action project (MEDCAP) in Cotabato City Oct. 24.

AFP and JSOTF-P Partner for IED Awareness Training in Basilan

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:19:17 GMT

BASILAN, Philippines - Members of Joint Special Operations Task Force– Philippines (JSOTF-P) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Task Unit partnered with Armed Forces of the Philippines First General Construction Company to conduct Improvised Explosive Device awareness training Oct. 19 in Barangay Camp Uno, Lamitan.

U.S., Indian Air Forces Conduct First Combined Airdrop Mission

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:17:01 GMT

AIR FORCE STATION AGRA, India - A C-17 Globemaster III crew conducted the first ever combined airdrop mission with Indian Air Force personnel here Oct. 19 as part of exercise Cope India.

JSOTF-P Assists Philippine National Police with Live Fire Demonstration

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:16:03 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Members of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines Explosive Ordnance Disposal Task Unit (JSOTF-P EOD) joined Philippine National Police Forces (PNP) for a live-fire demonstration of Improvised Explosive Device detonation Oct 20.

Marines Repair School in Timor-Leste

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:17:30 GMT

MAUBARA, Timor Leste - More than 300 students here have classrooms free of leaks due to the work of Marines with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

Indian Army Demonstrates IED Procedures During Exercise

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:41:46 GMT

CAMP BUNDELA, India - The Indian army's 31st Armor Division led an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) workshop and a demonstration that familiarized its personnel and U.S. Army Soldiers with different types of IEDs and equipment to counter them during exercise Yudh Abhyas here Oct. 19.

Gates, Willard Seek More Engagement With China

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:19:49 GMT

SEOUL, South Korea - It’s in the United States’ long-term interest to engage more closely with China, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said today, and his new top officer in the Pacific said he’s looking forward to the role he hopes to play in the dialogue.

Orient Shield Provides Exchange of Tactics, Culture

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:49:22 GMT

AIBANO TRAINING AREA, Japan - Hundreds of U.S. and Japanese troops took to the wood lines Oct. 16-18 in a simulated combat field training exercise as a culmination of Exercise Orient Shield.

Exercise Cope India Begins

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:31:29 GMT

AIR FORCE STATION AGRA, India - More than 400 combined airmen from the United States and India began the fourth installment of exercise Cope India, a bilateral humanitarian assistance disaster relief exercise, after officially kicking-off here Oct. 19.

Airmen Wrap up Relief Efforts in Pacific

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:54:59 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Airmen providing humanitarian assistance following the recent natural disasters in the Pacific have wrapped up their efforts and are returning home.

Keating Passes PACOM Torch to Willard

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:05:59 GMT

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, presided over a change-of-command ceremony here Oct. 19, as Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating passed the U.S. Pacific Command helm to Navy Adm. Robert F. Willard.

Carrier Strike Group Completes Exercise with ROK Navy

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:30:38 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) completed a bilateral exercise focused on sharing ideas and operating procedures with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Oct. 16.

Willard Assumes Command of U.S. Pacific Command

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:07:07 GMT

CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii - Navy Adm. Robert F. Willard assumed command of U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) Oct. 19, relieving Navy Adm. Timothy J. Keating during a traditional ceremony here.

Sailors Donate Medical Supplies, Time in Timor-Leste

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:07:00 GMT

DILI, Timor-Leste - Sailors from the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) presented four pallets of medical and hygiene supplies from Project Handclasp to local organizations, and also conducted two community service projects here Oct. 17.

Navy Wraps up Joint Indonesia Relief Mission

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:48:37 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - The Navy concluded humanitarian assistance efforts in Indonesia Oct. 16, by re-deploying military units that had been assigned to Amphibious Force, Seventh Fleet.

MSC Ships Deliver Cargo for Humanitarian Relief Efforts in Indonesia

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:47:54 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd and fleet replenishment oiler USNS Walter S. Diehl delivered urgently needed supplies, equipment and fuel off the coast of Indonesia Oct. 10 - 14, in response to the deadly earthquakes that struck the region Sept. 30.

Royal Thai Air Force Flies Skies Above Alaska

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:38:29 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska - The Royal Thai Air Force is participating in its fourth Red Flag-Alaska exercise, and its first cold-weather version of the air combat training event, Oct.1-16.

Sailors, Marines Begin Annual Training with Philippine Counterparts

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:12:45 GMT

PALAWAN, Philippines - Following several weeks of humanitarian relief operations in Manila and then farther north on Luzon in response to Tropical Storm Ketsana and Typhoon Parma, Sailors and Marines began an annual amphibious training exercise Oct. 14.

Indian, U.S. Soldiers Find Common Ground in Classroom

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:29:27 GMT

CAMP BUNDELA, India - Similarities and a common effort became apparent to participants of exercise Yudh Abhyas once the U.S. and Indian armies began their training for the annual bilateral field training exercise – both on and off the field.

Army Medics Polish Skills During Workshop in India

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:56:26 GMT

CAMP BUNDELA, India - U.S. and Indian soldiers came together to share information on the most recent medical techniques and applications of medical aids here Oct. 12.

Task Force Members Honor Fallen Soldiers During Memorial Ceremony

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:40:26 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Service members from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, U.S. Ambassador Kristie Kenney and officials from the Armed Forces Philippines paid their final respects at a memorial ceremony Oct. 3, for two JSOTF-P Soldiers who lost their lives Sept. 29.

Sailors, Marines Arive in Timor-Leste For Training, Outreach

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 03:27:44 GMT

SAVU SEA - USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), arrived Oct. 14 in Savu Sea to conduct a multi-lateral exercise in cooperation with the government of Timor-Leste.

Strykers Roll into India for Exercise Yudh Abhyas

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:14:51 GMT

CAMP BUNDELA, India - The first mechanized exercise Yudh Abhyas, an annual bilateral battalion-level field training exercise between the Indian and U.S. Armies, kicked off with a ceremony at the Babina Indian Army base, Oct. 12.

U.S. Military Airlift Capability Key Following Indonesian Earthquake

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:14:15 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - Getting more than 60 tons of urgently needed supplies to some of the most remote mountain villages in Southeast Asia has been a tremendous challenge for relief agencies responding to the earthquakes that rocked Sumatra Sept. 30.

U.S., Indonesian Service Members Partner in Humanitarian Efforts

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:42:12 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - Marines from the “Dragons” of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 and Airmen from 353rd Special Operations Group from Kadena Air Base, Japan joined personnel of the Indonesian Air Force to transport relief supplies and conducted a free medical clinic in a remote area of west Sumatra, Indonesia Oct. 9.

Volunteers, Medical Students Help HARRT Provide Continuous Care in Indonesia

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 20:15:55 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - The U.S. Air Force humanitarian assistance rapid response team deployed here in response to the recent earthquakes in Indonesia has treated more than 600 patients since opening the field clinic to local residents on Oct. 7. Volunteer interpreters are assisting.

Navy and Marine Helicopters Begin Relief Flights in Indonesia

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 19:15:01 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - Just hours after USS Denver (LPD9) and USS McCampbell (DDG 85) arrived offshore here, helicopters from both ships started flying urgently needed emergency supplies to remote areas of Western Sumatra Oct. 9.

U.S., India to Begin Bilateral Exercise Cope India

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 19:14:41 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The U.S. and Indian air forces will train together during exercise Cope India Oct. 15-24 at Air Force Station Agra in Uttar Predesh, India.

Navy Ship Provides First Response to American Samoa

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 19:14:20 GMT

WASHINGTON - The USS Ingraham was one of the first responders to provide humanitarian relief to victims of a natural disaster in American Samoa, the ship’s commanding officer said.

Airmen Treat Hundreds of Indonesian Earthquake Victims

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 01:54:48 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - With only one of the four local hospitals operational, a U.S. Air Force Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team continues to help local medical professionals treat an increasing number of patients in the wake of recent earthquakes.

Navy Command Pre-stages Humanitarian Assistance Supplies

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:48:43 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - As a lethal string of storms and natural disasters swept across the Western Pacific, thousands of pre-positioned Foreign Humanitarian Assistance (FHA) supplies were readied by U.S. Fleet and Industrial Supply Center Yokosuka for delivery to ships on the way to assist.

George Washington Departs Japan for Deployment

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 01:44:53 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group departed Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), Japan Oct. 6 for its second annual fall deployment in support of maritime security and to participate in ANNUALEX 2009, the premiere bilateral exercise between the U.S. and Japan.

U.S. Air Force HARRT Begins Treating Patients in Indonesia

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 21:40:02 GMT

PADANG, Indonesia - A U.S. Air Force Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team arrived here late in the evening Oct. 5 with approximately 200,000 pounds of medical and contingency response equipment, and began receiving patients Oct. 7.

Airmen Aid in Initial Indonesian Recovery Operations

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:20:40 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - Members of the 353rd Special Operations Group are supporting humanitarian relief operations near Padang in western Indonesia after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake and a slightly smaller one struck Sept. 29 and Oct. 1.

AFP General, Local Officials Rededicate School and Health Clinic in Sumisip

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:40:39 GMT

BASILAN, Philippines - Members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with U.S. Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines and local government officials rededicated an elementary school and a health clinic in Sumisip Oct. 3.

Strykers to Deploy to India for Exercise

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:47:54 GMT

WASHINGTON - The Army plans to deploy 17 of its Stryker combat vehicles this month to India for the first exercise of its kind in the country.

Marines, Sailors Support Flood Relief in Philippines

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:55:24 GMT

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan - In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ketsana that struck the Republic of the Philippines Sept. 25, U.S. Marines and Sailors have come to the aid of the Philippine people.

PACAF Airmen Deploy to Indonesia to Help Earthquake Victims

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 22:00:21 GMT

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan - Airmen assigned to Pacific Air Forces left here and Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Oct. 5 for Padang, Indonesia, to provide medical care to those affected by the recent 7.6-magnitude earthquake.

Samoa Relief Winds Down; Efforts Continue Elsewhere

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:11:03 GMT

Amphibious Force 7th Fleet Sends Survey Team to Indonesia

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:23:54 GMT

JAKARTA, Indonesia - The Commander, Amphibious Force Seventh Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, arrived in Indonesia Oct. 4 on a humanitarian mission to coordinate US military response efforts with the Indonesian government.

U.S. Air Force Humanitarian Team Set to Depart for Indonesia

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 18:56:58 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - A U.S. Air Force Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team is preparing to depart on two C-17 Globemaster IIIs out of Japan and Guam to provide disaster relief to Indonesia.

U.S. Army Pacific Responds Immediately to Tsunami

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 18:45:40 GMT

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii - Within minutes of receiving word of an earthquake and tsunami in American Samoa, on Sept. 29, elements of the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) were busy gathering information and preparing to provide humanitarian assistance or disaster relief.

Pacific Command Continues Aid Efforts

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 18:27:51 GMT

WASHINGTON - U.S. Pacific Command continues to help in coordinating humanitarian relief operations in American Samoa, Indonesia and the Philippines, the command’s top officer said Oct. 2.

Pacific Fleet Helping American Samoa, Indonesia, Philippines

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 16:52:01 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - The U.S. Pacific Fleet is deploying personnel and units to provide humanitarian aid in the wake of natural disasters that have stricken the Philippines, American Samoa and Indonesia.

Marines, Sailors Bring Aid to Philippines

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 00:11:13 GMT

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, Japan - The U.S. military is providing critically needed disaster-relief supplies to mitigate suffering and prevent further loss of life in the wake of Tropical Storm Ketsana, which struck the Philippines Sept. 25.

American Samoa Relief Efforts Continue

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 23:52:49 GMT

WASHINGTON - The medical support situation in American Samoa has stabilized amid ongoing U.S. relief efforts after a massive tsunami devastated the area this week, a Defense Department official said Oct. 2.

JSOTF-P, Red Cross Distribute Food to Ondoy Victims

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 17:49:55 GMT

MANILA, Philippines - Members from Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines joined USAID and Philippine National Red Cross distributed bags of food to victims of Tropical Storm Ondoy (known internationally as Ketsana) in metropolitan Manila Sept. 29.

Joint Force Employs Humanitarian Effort in American Samoa

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:23:30 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Two C-17 Globemaster IIIs departed here Sept. 30 with approximately 100 military personnel to provide humanitarian assistance to the island of American Samoa.

Military Provides Rescue, Humanitarian Support in Pacific

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:07:39 GMT

WASHINGTON - Following the work of U.S. special operators, who conducted rescue operations after devastating flooding in the Philippines this week, the Hawaii Air National Guard and USS Ingraham are headed to American Samoa to support rescue and humanitarian relief there following a massive earthquake and tsunami.

Hawaii Guard Deploys After Tsunami Hits American Samoa

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:40:08 GMT

ARLINGTON, Va - About 90 Hawaii National Guard members aboard two C-17 Globemaster IIIs are on their way to American Samoa this morning to help in the recovery efforts on the Pacific island, National Guard officials here announced Sept. 30.

JSOTF-P Assists in Rescue Efforts During Manila Flooding

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:38:56 GMT

MANILA, Philippines - Members of Joint Special Operations Task Force- Philippines (LSOTF-P) assisted the Armed Forces of the Philippines(AFP) with the rescue of 52 people affected by massive flooding during Tropical Storm Ondoy, (known as internationally as Ketsana) in Cainta, Metro Manila Sept. 27-28.

Two U.S. Service Members Killed in Southern Philippines

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 06:03:34 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii - Two U.S. service members were killed Sept. 29 in the southern Philippines when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. The incident occurred at 8:45 a.m. while the service members were conducting a resupply mission for a school construction project on the island of Jolo.

Thousands Helped as Pacific Angel Concludes

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 01:26:03 GMT

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Vietnam - Air Force officials concluded the final iteration of Operation Pacific Angel 2009 during a ceremony here Sept. 22, culminating a two-part operation that provided humanitarian aid to thousands of people in communities in the Asia-Pacific region.

Thousands Helped as Pacific Angel Concludes

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:26:27 GMT

Bombers Complete Long-range Exercise with Australia

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 19:34:53 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - Three B-52 Stratofortresses completed 13-hour flights from here to an Australian training range Sept. 21 and 22 to train for long-range strike missions.

Airmen Restore Vietnamese Clinic During Pacific Angel

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:55:48 GMT

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Vietnam - A 15-member Air Force civil engineer team is refurbishing the Cam Thuy Medical Clinic here as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009, taking place Sept. 15 to 24.

U.S. Military to Begin New Deep Freeze Season

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:55:09 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The U.S. military will kick off the 2009-2010 season of Operation Deep Freeze, the Department of Defense's support of the U.S. Antarctic Program and the National Science Foundation, on Sept. 25.

Pacific Angel Optometry Team Provides Vision in Vietnam

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:59:33 GMT

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Vietnam - Air Force optometrists are making vision a bit clearer for Vietnamese residents here during Operation Pacific Angel 2009 Sept. 15-24.

USS Reagan Carrier Strike Group Arrives in Thailand for Port Visit

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:38:40 GMT

PHUKET, Thailand - Three ships and more than 5,000 Sailors of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group arrived at the island of Phuket, Thailand Sept. 22.

Mission Complete, Pacific Partnership Evolves in 2009

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:10:39 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - Pacific Partnership 2009 (PP09) completed its five-country, three month humanitarian civic assistance mission when the team departed the Republic of the Marshall Islands aboard Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) Sept. 18.

USNS Safeguard Completes First Navy Voyage Repairs in Vietnam

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:36:16 GMT

SINGAPORE - USNS Safeguard (T-ARS-50) transited down the Saigon River on Sept. 12, quietly making history as the first U.S. Navy Military Sealift Command ship to utilize a Vietnamese shipyard for voyage repairs.

Saving Smiles in Vietnam

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:19:24 GMT

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Vietnam - If anyone knows the importance of a smile, it's a dentist, and dentists like Maj. (Dr.) Diep Le, who is taking part in the humanitarian assistance mission Operation Pacific Angel 2009 here, are doing everything possible to save the smiles of local Vietnamese people.

Airmen Begin Humanitarian Mission in Vietnam

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 23:42:54 GMT

QUANG TRI PROVINCE, Vietnam - U.S. civil engineer and medical Airmen are here providing humanitarian and civic assistance to local communities Sept. 15 to 24 as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009.

303rd Ordnance Battalion (EOD) Activates in Hawaii

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:01:01 GMT

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii - The U.S. Army's 303rd Ordnance Battalion (EOD) was activated Sept. 15 during a ceremony here.

Multimission Capability at Heart of USNS Byrd's PP09 Success

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:55:47 GMT

KWAJALEIN, Republic of the Marshall Islands - Mariners are evaluating the effectiveness of the ship that has been carrying Pacific Partnership 2009, an annual humanitarian and civic assistance mission nearing its completion this week.

Navy Supports Relief Efforts in Northern Mariana Islands

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:53:20 GMT

SANTA RITA, Guam - Following the aftermath of Super Typhoon Choi-Wan, USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3) and two MH-60S helicopters from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 arrived on station in the early morning hours of Sept. 17 to provide humanitarian support to residents of Alamagan and Agrihan.

Humanitarian Team Validated Through Chuuk Exercise

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:06:56 GMT

WENO ISLAND, Chuuk - The Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team concept was officially validated Sept. 15, after the team provided free medical care to residents of Chuuk in the Federated States of Micronesia Sept. 2-6.

Asia-Pacific Importance Increasing, Commander Says

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:55:11 GMT

WASHINGTON - The Asia-Pacific region will become even more important to U.S. defense and economic interests in the future, the top commander in the region said Sept. 15.

USS Lassen Makes Port Call to Shimonoseki, Japan

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:48:48 GMT

SHIMONOSEKI, Japan - The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) arrived off the coast of Shimonoseki, Japan, Sept. 14 for a scheduled port visit.

USNS Byrd Air Detachment Proves Vital to Pacific Partnership 2009

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:49:10 GMT

KWAJALEIN, Republic of the Marshall Islands - Pacific Partnership 2009 (PP09) arrived at its final mission site the second week of September concluding a three-month humanitarian civic assistance mission that wouldn't have been possible for the U.S. Navy to execute without the support of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) contracted air detachment.

Army Trains Marines in Alaska Wilderness

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:16:22 GMT

BLACK RAPIDS TRAINING SITE, Alaska - Members of the Marine Corps Special Operations Command are preparing for Afghanistan's rugged terrain by training in the wilds of Alaska.

USS Harpers Ferry Returned After Successful CARAT Deployment

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:15:57 GMT

PEARL HARBOR - The staff of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 31 returned home Sept. 4 after completing a successful four-month deployment aboard USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) May 12 to Aug. 28.

Fishing Boat Returned by USNS Richard E. Byrd

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:15:01 GMT

TARAWA, Kiribati - Crew members from Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) returned a boat to the local Kiribati community Sept. 3.

Air Force physician Applies Research to Humanitarian Exercise

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:36:44 GMT

WENO ISLAND, Chuuk - It is not every day that one has the opportunity to apply what was learned in the ivory tower of academia to a real-life situation.

Commander Focuses on Stopping Asia-Pacific Terrorism

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:18:49 GMT

WASHINGTON - Calling counter-terrorism one of U.S. Pacific Command’s top priorities, its commander says he’s seeing headway made through increased regional cooperation and information-sharing.

USS Nimitz Arrives in Singapore

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:18:17 GMT

USS Nimitz, In Port, Singapore - The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) arrived at Changi Naval Base in Singapore Sept. 8 for a scheduled port visit as part of their 2009 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment.

Pacific Partnership Returns to the Republic of the Marshall Islands

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:17:33 GMT

MAJURO, Republic of the Marshall Islands - Pacific Partnership 2009 returns to the Republic of the Marshall Islands for 12 days as part of a four-month mission when USNS RICHARD E. BYRD (T-AKE 4), an underway replenishment ship, arrived here Sept. 7.

Pacific Partnership Builds a Bridge and Lasting Friendships in Kiribati

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:16:10 GMT

BETIO, Kiribati - Pacific Partnership 2009 departed Kiribati Sep 8 after 14 days of working alongside the I-Kiribati delivering a variety of humanitarian civic assistance programs.

Elmendorf Boosts Aviation Fuel With Additive

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:50:57 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska- Elmendorf became the first Air Force base in the Pacific Rim to blend a thermally stable additive known as Plus 100 to its JP-8 aviation fuel Sept. 1.

USS Mustin Returns to Yokosuka After Successful Summer Deployment

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:50:18 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan- USS Mustin (DDG 89) returned to its permanently forward-deployed operating port of Yokosuka, Japan Sept. 4, for the first time since beginning its summer deployment June 10.

Keating to Seek More U.S.- Sino Military Engagement

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:38:10 GMT

WASHINGTON- The top U.S. commander in the Pacific said yesterday he's "cautiously optimistic" last week's Military Maritime Consultative Agreement talks in Beijing have opened the door to closer military-to-military engagement between the United States and China.

George Washington Carrier Strike Group Completes Inaugural Summer Deployment

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:32:51 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) completed their inaugural summer deployment Sept. 3, returning to their forward-deployed home at Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

Pacific Partnership Builds Bridge, Literally and Figuratively

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:51:48 GMT

TARAWA, Kiribati - A multinational team of engineers from Pacific Partnership completed the installation of a new, pre-engineered bridge connecting North and South Tarawa this week, known as the Tanaea-Bouta Bridge.

New Contracting Brigade Activated at Fort Shafter

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:50:46 GMT

FORT SHAFTER - With the uncasing of the unit colors, the 413th Contracting Support Brigade became an integral part of United States Army, Pacific's mission at a ceremony on historic Palm Circle Sept. 2.

CARAT/NEA Indonesia Closes, Ending Successful Exercise Series

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 02:43:02 GMT

Jakarta, Indonesia - The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2009 exercise series ended with a ceremony Aug. 28 aboard USS Crommelin (FFG 37) here, with Indonesian and U.S. Navy leaders praising the efforts of officers and Sailors from both countries.

13th Air Force to Validate New Disaster Response Capability

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:21:20 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - Thirteenth Air Force is scheduled to validate the Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team concept, which is designed to make disaster relief efforts throughout the Asia-Pacific region more responsive and efficient, during a validation exercise in Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 3-6.

PAMSXXXIII Closes, Presented Dynamic Challenges, Discussion

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:05:02 GMT

Tokyo, Japan - Pacific Armies Management Seminar XXXIII came to a close Aug. 28 after a week of intense discussions at the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo.

Senior Army Leaders Gather in Tokyo to Discuss Security, Cooperation

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:59:12 GMT

Tokyo, Japan - Army Chief of Staff equivalents from 26 countries and senior staff officers from 31 countries around the Pacific and Indian Ocean regions gathered to officially open the Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference VI and the Pacific Armies Management Seminar XXXIII in a ceremony at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, Aug. 24.

Second Phase of CARAT Indonesia Underway

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:13:28 GMT

JAKARTA, Indonesia - More than 100 U.S. and Indonesian Sailors joined together Aug. 24 at the Indonesian Western Fleet Headquarters to kick off the second half of Cooperation Afloat Readiness Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2009.

Pacific Partnership 2009 Arrives in Kiribati

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:57:11 GMT

BETIO, Kiribati - Pacific Partnership 2009 (PP09) assets arrived in Betio, Kiribati, Aug. 23 aboard underway replenishment ship USNS Richard E. Byrd for a 14-day mission.

SEACAT Shows Benefits of Cooperation At Sea, Ashore

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 02:43:06 GMT

SINGAPORE - The eighth annual Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) exercise ended on a successful note Aug. 20, with Sailors from five Southeast Asian nations tracking three mock ‘vessels of interest,’ and conducting nine successful at-sea boardings.

GW Carrier Strike Group Joins Indonesia International Fleet Review

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 02:08:57 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, at sea - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group participated in the Indonesia International Fleet Review (IFR), a parade of ships from 33 different countries in Bitung and Manado in North Sulawesi, Indonesia Aug. 19.

Pacific Airlift Rally 2009 Kicks Off

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:40:40 GMT

SUBANG ROYAL MALAYSIAN AIR FOCE BASE, Malaysia - The 2009 Pacific Airlift Rally, co-hosted by the U.S. and Royal Malaysian Air Forces, kicked off Aug. 17 at Subang Royal Malaysian Air Force Base, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Gen. North Assumes Command of Pacific Air Forces

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:38:39 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The command of Pacific Air Forces, celebrating 65 years of providing American airpower in the Pacific this month, was passed today from Gen. Howie Chandler to Gen. Gary North during a ceremony here on Freedom Tower Mall.

Khaan Quest Field Training Exercise Begins at Five Hills Training Area

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:37:30 GMT

FIVE HILLS TRAINING AREA, Mongolia - The field training exercise portion of Khaan Quest 2009 began here Aug. 17, allowing military forces from across the globe to exchange peacekeeping tactics.

Pacific Partnership 2009 Departs Solomon Islands

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 01:01:55 GMT

HONIARA, Solomon Islands - Pacific Partnership 2009 departed Solomon Islands Aug. 19 after 14 days of working alongside Solomon Islanders delivering a variety of humanitarian civic assistance programs on the islands of Guadalcanal and Malaita.

Pacific Partnership Helps Community Reduce Mosquito Population

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:54:21 GMT

AUKI, Solomon Islands - Pacific Partnership 2009's small cadre of preventive medicine technicians (PREVMED) and a U.S. Navy entomologist arrived on the island of Malaita, Solomon Islands, this week to support community efforts to reduce the cases of malaria.

USS George Washington Strengthens Ties Through Professional Exchanges

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 01:48:40 GMT

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines - USS George Washington (CVN 73) Sailors hosted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) service members and local students Aug. 12-14 for a series of "professional exchanges" as part of the ship's four-day port visit to Manila.

Indonesian School Project the Capstone of Seabees’ CARAT Experience

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:58:43 GMT

BEKASI, Indonesia - The dedication and turnover of a new school building and playground pad at Pusaka Rakyat Primary School on Aug. 14th represented not only the end of a collaboration between U.S. Navy Seabees and their Indonesian counterparts, but also the conclusion of a summers' worth of projects throughout Southeast Asia.

AFP, JSOTF-P Train Jolo Police in IED Awareness and Response

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:58:08 GMT

JOLO CITY, Philippines - Explosive ordnance disposal technicians and medical personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 3rd Marine Brigade and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines conducted three days of training in Improvised Explosive Device awareness and medical response for 16 Jolo City municipal police officers here August 6-8.

McCampbell Arrives in Indonesia for International Fleet Review

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:33:05 GMT

BITUNG, INDONESIA - Sailors aboard the guided missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) arrived here Aug. 15 to participate in the Indonesia International Fleet Review (IFR).

Southeast Asia Nations Come Together For Maritime Security Training

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 01:52:13 GMT

SINGAPORE - The seventh annual Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) maritime security exercise began Aug. 13 as liaison officers from the United States and six participating Southeast Asia countries began tracking simulated vessels of interest.

Exercise Pacific Reach 2009 Tests Watercraft Capabilities

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 01:51:24 GMT

YOKOHAMA NORTH DOCK, Japan: Active-duty and Army Reserve Soldiers from across the globe are testing the readiness of the Army's prepositioned set four [APS-4) during military exercise Pacific Reach 2009 at Yokohama North Dock, Tokyo, Japan.

Vietnam, U.S. Host Asia-Pacific Military Nursing Symposium

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:52:32 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii - The United States and Vietnam co-hosted more than 200 nurses from 14 countries during the 3rd annual Asia-Pacific Military Nursing Symposium in Hanoi, Vietnam Aug 3-7.

George Washington Carrier Strike Group Visits Manila

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:22:24 GMT

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines - The George Washington Carrier Strike Group, along with its more than 5,000 Sailors, arrived in the capital city of the Republic of the Philippines Aug. 11 for a scheduled port visit.

Osan Cross Servicing Program Fosters Good Relations

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:39:06 GMT

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea - The first combat cross servicing program evaluation of the year took place here Aug. 10 when two Korean F-5's landed on the flightline. The Osan Combat Cross Servicing Program is a mutual agreement between the U.S. and Republic of Korea that allows the maintainers from both services to get hands-on experience working on each other's aircraft.

Diverse Training Yields Benefits For Brunei, U.S. as CARAT Concludes

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:39:16 GMT

MUARA, Brunei - From disaster relief to maritime security, Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2009 provided the armed forces of Brunei and the U.S. with a week’s worth of invaluable training and cooperation.

USS McCampbell Joins Darwin in Welcoming Home Service Members

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 18:41:18 GMT

DARWIN, Australia -- - Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) joined thousands of Darwin, Australia citizens in welcoming home members of the Australian Army at a parade August 8 while the ship was in-port Darwin for a scheduled visit.

Marines, Sailors Provide Assistance in Bangladesh

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:50:24 GMT

CHILMARI, Bangladesh -- - Marine engineers from Company A, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Sailors from 3rd Medical and Dental Battalions are providing engineering and medical assistance here Aug. 1-11 as part of the Bangladesh Interoperability Program.

Pacific Partnership Returns to Solomon Islands

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 19:00:39 GMT

HONIARA, Solomon Islands -- Pacific Partnership 2009 returned to Solomon Islands Aug. 6 for 14 days as part of a four-month mission on board the Military Sealift Command ship USNS Richard E Byrd (T-AKE 4).

Brunei, US Forces Participate in CARAT Disaster Relief Exercise

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 19:00:00 GMT

BINTURAN, Brunei -- Recognizing the need to coordinate efforts during potential regional crises, the armed forces of Brunei and the United States participated in a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) exercise at the Binturan Shooting Range, Aug. 6.

ROKAF Visits to Strengthen Friendship, Learn from U.S. Air Force

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:59:15 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Thirty-three members of the Republic of Korea Air Force visited Hickam Air Force Base July 28 to tour the 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing, see how its aerial porters conduct day- to-day operations, and continue building the good relations the Republic of Korea Air Force has shared with the U.S. Air Force for decades.

Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster Relief Training Key in CARAT Brunei

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:41:58 GMT

MUARA, Brunei - The armed forces of Brunei and the United States will train together in several naval engagements, including a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) scenario, during the Brunei phase of the 15th annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise, which began Aug. 4 at Muara Naval Base.

U.S., Japanese F-15 pilots train for Red Flag Alaska

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:43:06 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- U.S. and Japanese F-15 pilots began air-refueling training last week for the "Red Flag Alaska" exercise in October. The day and night air-refueling training began July 27 and will continue through Aug. 7.

International Aid Groups, AFP Discuss Humanitarian Efforts in Mindanao

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:42:34 GMT

DAVAO, Philippines -- Representatives from more than a dozen humanitarian aid organizations and civil-military operations experts from the Philippine and United States armed forces met here July 27-29 to discuss how they could work together more effectively together in Mindanao.

Guam Guardsmen Leave Mark in Dili

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 22:27:40 GMT

DILI, Timor-Leste -- An 11-member team from the 254th REDHORSE Squadron at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, recently provided much-needed civil engineering assistance to an under-served area here as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009.

Essex Comes up from Port Visit Down Under to Continue Maritime Security Ops

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:52:26 GMT

BRISBANE, Australia (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Brisbane, Australia, after a scheduled four-day port visit Aug. 1.

USS Lassen Sailors Stay Connected to Timor Leste

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:28:29 GMT

YOKOKSUKA, Japan – Sailors aboard the Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) are making a difference in Dili, Timor Leste from their homeport of Yokosuka, Japan.

Admiral Expects U.S.-China Military Talks to Resume Soon

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:03:48 GMT

WASHINGTON -- Plans are under way for the United States and China to take the first steps toward resuming their stalled military-to-military dialogue, possibly within the next couple months, the top U.S. officer in the region told reporters today.

International Cooperation Brings New Smiles to Jolo

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:06:03 GMT

CAMP BAUTISTA, SULU, Republic of the Philippines -- An international team gathered on the island of Jolo July 20-25 for a week-long effort to bring life-changing medical treatment to children living with cleft palates and cleft lips in an event called ‘Operation Sumbing’.

Pacific Partnership Leaves Tonga, Renovated Schools, Clinics and Smiles

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:37:52 GMT

NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (NNS) -- Pacific Partnership 2009 team departed Tonga after 13 days where they worked alongside Tongans, and delivered a variety of humanitarian civic assistance programs.

CARAT Brings Indonesian, U.S. Service Members Together in Cooperation

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:57:05 GMT

JAKARTA, Indonesia -- The Indonesia phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) began July 20 with the arrival of nearly 200 U.S. Sailors and Marines taking part in the bilateral exercise.

Keating Reflects on POW/MIA Mission Ahead of Retirement

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:45:15 GMT

WASHINGTON -- Nearing the end of his 42-year career in the Navy, Adm. Timothy J. Keating today reflected on those who served alongside him, giving special emphasis to troops whose fates remain unknown.

Vietnam, United States Hold Airpower Talks

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:35:47 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Senior officials from the Vietnamese People's Air Force and U.S. Air Force are meeting in Vietnam July 21-24 to share information and set the stage for future partnering activities.

Pacific Commander Reflects on China, North Korea, New Strategy

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:26:33 GMT

WASHINGTON -- The top Pentagon policy official’s recent visit to Beijing could be a sign of China’s willingness to resume its military-to-military dialog with the United States, the top U.S. military commander in the Pacific said.

USS John McCain Makes History in Yokohama

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:43:13 GMT

YOKOHAMA, Japan --Guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) made history July 21 by becoming the first U.S. Navy ship to ever participate in the Yokohama, Japan port-opening celebration and the first U.S. Navy ship to enter the port in over a decade.

Tongan-U.S. Biomedical Repair Team Supports Niu'ui Hospital

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 22:33:46 GMT

LIFUKA, Tonga -- Pacific Partnership 2009 (PP09) biomedical repair technicians worked with Niu'ui Hospital's only biomedical equipment repair technician here July 20, repairing and performing maintenance on a variety of equipment as part of a two-week medical civic action program (MEDCAP).

Sailors, Partners Learn from Royal Tongan Marines

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:03:17 GMT

PANGAI, Tonga -- U.S. Navy Sailors and Royal Tongan Marines join their Australian hosts to transit to another Pacific Partnership 2009 (PP09) civic action operation along the beach landing site at Royal Tongan naval base Velta July 18.

All Eyes on Total Force Pacific Angel Team

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:57:20 GMT

DILI, Timor Leste -- A total force team of U.S. military eye specialists is working together here to improve the eyesight of local East Timorese people as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009.

Aeromedical Evacuation Knowledge Shared in Indonesia

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:59:03 GMT

EL TARI AIR FORCE BASE, Indonesia -- Indonesian and U.S. military members, along with local doctors, finished three days of training on aeromedical evacuation procedures here July 20 as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009.

Humanitarian Assistance Team Completes Evaluation

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:58:03 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- After three days of simulations and exercises, the Humanitarian Assistance Rapid Response Team, or HARRT, successfully completed its first operational utility evaluation at Andersen Air Force Base July 13-17.

Indonesian, U.S. Team Keeps Water Flowing for Village

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:55:25 GMT

NAIONI, Indonesia -- Air Force civil engineers joined Indonesian military members and civilians to provide water to a rural Indonesian village here July 17.

Royal Australian Navy Helps 'Take a Load Off'

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:00:21 GMT

NUKU ALOFA, Tonga -- HMA ships Betano and Wewak from Australia have joined Pacific Partnership 2009, a humanitarian civic assistance mission that enables the delivery of vital medical, dental, engineering and veterinary aid to Tonga and the Solomon Islands July 13-August 23.

Thai, U.S Forces Recognize Achievements During Annual Exercise

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:53:50 GMT

SATTAHIP, Thailand (NNS) -- Notable achievements at sea and on land exemplified the cooperation between the armed forces of Thailand and the United States as Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2009 concluded July 16.

Pacific Angel Helps 300-plus in Timor Leste

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:39:41 GMT

DILI, Timore Leste -- More than 300 East Timorese people were treated at a local school here July 16 as part of Operation Pacific Angel 2009.

Civil Affairs Teams Deliver Hope in Mindanao

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 21:48:16 GMT

COTABATO, Philippines -- For seven years now, the U.S. military has been quietly assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to fight terrorism and deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Mindanao. Unlike in Iraq and Afghanistan, U.S. service members assigned to the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) are playing a strictly supporting, non-combat role. And on the frontlines of this “non-kinetic” fight are U.S. Army and Navy Civil Affairs personnel.

Environmental Assists in Keeping Training Area Operational

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:48:42 GMT

SHOALWATER BAY TRAING AREA, Australia -- The Environmental Management Group of Exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09) prepared for the amphibious landings of both the U.S and Australian military forces at Shoalwater Bay training area Monday.

Pacific Partnership 2009 Arrives in Tonga

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:09:33 GMT

NUKU ALOFA, Tonga -- The underway replenishment ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) arrived in Tonga July 13 as part of the four-month Pacific Partnership 2009 mission.

Essex Looks Out for Marine Mammals During Talisman Saber

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:08:56 GMT

USS ESSEX, Coral Sea -- Standing an official Navy watch is not to be taken lightly because of the many potential threats to the ship, the mission and the very lives of Sailors themselves.

U.S., Vietnam Conduct First Medical Readiness and Training Exercise

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:11:45 GMT

BAC NINH, Vietnam -- Approximately 40 doctors, dentists, nurses and technical specialists from the United States and Vietnam joined together July 7-15 to treat hundreds of residents here during a medical readiness and training exercise.

Pacific Partnership Wraps up Multi-Mission Stop in Samoa

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:11:13 GMT

APIA, Samoa -- Pacific Partnership 2009 departed Samoa July 10 after working alongside Samoans and other partners and friends, delivering a variety of humanitarian civic assistance programs.

Australian Navy Midshipmen Experience U.S. Navy During Talisman Saber

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:10:46 GMT

USS MUSTIN, At Sea – Two Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Midshipmen came aboard USS Mustin (DDG 89) July 5 and have had the opportunity to see how the U.S. Navy works on a day-to-day basis.

CARAT to Provide Numerous Training Opportunities for Thailand, US

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:35:36 GMT

SATTAHIP, Thailand -- Southeast Asia’s only aircraft carrier will be the centerpiece of a combined afloat training schedule for the armed forces of Thailand and the United States during the Thailand phase of the 15th annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise, which began July 8.

Pacific Partnership Medical Personnel Save Toddler in Samoa

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:39:42 GMT

APIA, Samoa (NNS) -- The life of a two-year-old Samoan child was saved by medical personnel who were providing health care services as part of Pacific Partnership 2009 in Lalomanu, Samoa, July 3.

Rockhampton Welcomes U.S., Australian Service Members

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:52:58 GMT

ROCKHAMPTON, Queensland, Australia -- The city of Rockhampton welcomed visiting U.S. service members participating in Exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09) during an Open Day celebration along the town’s Fitzroy River here.

USS Stethem Departs Russia After Port Visit

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:26:17 GMT

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia -- Guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), departed the port city of Vladivostok after a 5 day visit beginning July 1.

Pacific Partnership Starts Mission in Samoa

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:18:58 GMT

APIA, Samoa (NNS) -- Pacific Partnership 2009 began its mission in Apia, Samoa as part of a four-month mission when USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4) arrived July 1.

Combined Operations Enhance Malaysia-U.S. Cooperation as CARAT Concludes

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:58:00 GMT

TERENGGANU, Malaysia -- A successful combined amphibious landing by nearly 200 Malaysian Army soldiers and U.S. Marines provided a fitting backdrop on July 1 for the conclusion of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2009.

Malaysia-U.S. CARAT Construction Project Benefits Schoolchildren in Kuantan

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 01:52:26 GMT

KUANTAN, Malaysia (NNS) -- Three weeks of hard work by U.S. Navy Seabees and their Malaysian Army counterparts culminated June 30 with a dedication of new and renovated facilities at Seberang Tayor Primary School.

USS Stethem Arrives in Russia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:47:15 GMT

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia -- U.S. Guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Vladivostok, Russia, for a scheduled port visit on July 1. The visit provides an opportunity to promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region by demonstrating that the U.S. and Russia are committed to a regional partnership and the growth of foreign relations.

New Pacific Strategy Builds on Partnerships, Commander Says

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:26:12 GMT

WASHINGTON –Partnership, readiness and presence are the cornerstones of the U.S. Pacific Command’s new strategy, its commander said at a meeting of the Atlantic Council think tank here June 29.

New Zealand Proves Fitting Host for Multilateral Talks

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:02:52 GMT

WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- "With your basket, and with my basket, together we will feed everyone."

JSOTF-P, Philippine Military Rebuilding Schools Burned by Abu Sayyaf

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 01:43:32 GMT

SUMISIP, Basilan –The Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines is partnering with Philippine Navy SEABEES to rebuild two schools in Central Sumisip on the island of Basilan that were burned to the ground by the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group in late March.

Jungle Survival Training Brings Together Malaysian Rangers, US Marines

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:29:28 GMT

JERAM SISIK, Malaysia –More than 200 Malaysian Army Rangers and U.S. Marines endured pounding rains and stifling jungle heat and terrain to complete a four-day jungle survival exercise as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT).

Joint Northern Edge Exercise Concludes

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:47:15 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – After two weeks of working together to increase the interoperability of the different military branches, 9,000 servicemembers, more than 200 aircraft and an aircraft carrier are heading their separate ways after having successfully completed the largest joint training exercise in Alaska, June 26.

Northern Edge Fields New Radar System

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:30:40 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – The Joint Strike Fighter Program, which is heading the development of the F-35, conducted field testing for the aircraft's APG-81 radar system during the Northern Edge 2009 exercise in Alaska.

Asia-Pacific Nations Meet to Discuss Relief Operations

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:17:02 GMT

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Representatives from nations throughout the Asia-Pacific region are meeting here to discuss multilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations June 23-27.

Australians Join Humanitarian Mission Pacific Partnership 2009

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 20:16:10 GMT

CANBERRA, Australia – Australian Defence Force (ADF) engineers and medical personnel joined the multinational Pacific Partnership 2009 team to lend a helping hand to Australia's neighbors in the South West Pacific from June 30 to Sept. 18, 2009.

Maritime Cooperation a Key Theme for CARAT Malaysia

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:37:06 GMT

TERENGGANU, Malaysia - A diverse group of ships, aircraft and ground units from the armed forces of Malaysia and the U.S. will train together during the Malaysian phase of the 15th annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise, which began June 23.

Garuda Shield CPX Closes, Offers Real World Experience

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:36:12 GMT

BANDUNG, Indonesia - The Command Post Exercise portion of Exercise Garuda Shield 09 came to a close in a ceremony in Bandung, Indonesia, June 22.

Live-Virtual-Constructive Operations Increase Sphere of Northern Edge 2009

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:35:21 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Northern Edge 2009, a joint exercise for units under the U.S. Pacific Command, is the largest military training exercise in Alaska and one of the largest joint-training exercises in the U.S. military.

Singapore-U.S. Training Achieves New Standards During CARAT

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:37:52 GMT

SINGAPORE -- The Singapore phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2009 ended June 19 at Changi Naval Base yielding a new level of cooperation and interoperability between the Republic of Singapore and U.S. forces, supporting a key pillar of the Navy's Maritime Strategy.

USS George Washington Hosts Palauan Presidential Delegation

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:37:05 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea -- Commander, George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GWCSG) welcomed leaders of the Republic of Palau aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) June 21.

Marines Get Knee Deep in Northern Edge 2009

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:34:50 GMT

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Exercise Northern Edge 2009 officially kicked off at Elmendorf Air Force Base and numerous locations across the massive training grounds of Alaska June 15.

Laos, Thailand, U.S. Officials Host Disease Surveillance Workshop

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 19:12:58 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- In a cooperative effort to improve their ability to detect, respond to, and contain infectious diseases in the Asia-Pacific region, medical experts from Laos, Thailand and the United States participated in a four-day disease surveillance workshop in Laos June 6-9.

Weather Forecasters Look to the Skies During Northern Edge

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:50:33 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Northern Edge 2009, the largest military training exercise in Alaska is underway. The pilots and support personnel involved in the air-centric exercise have many tasks to accomplish but one consistent obstacle, the weather, can always affect the mission.

Elmendorf Receives Excellent ORI Rating

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:20:47 GMT

After seven days of responding to scenarios including evacuations, fires, riots, hazardous material, missile attacks and offensive airstrikes, the 3rd Wing received an overall excellent rating during the 2009 Operational Readiness Inspection June 1-7.

AFP-JSOTF-P Deliver Medical Assistance to Filipino WWII Veterans

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 20:47:28 GMT

JOLO, Republic of the Philippines – World War II veterans and their families gathered at Camp Bautista here June 13 to receive medical assistance and medications at a Medical Civic Action Program (MEDCAP) hosted together by the U.S. Joint Special Operation Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF-P) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Exercise Garuda Shield 2009 Opens in Indonesa

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 20:46:22 GMT

BANDUNG, Indonesia – Approximately 1,000 Soldiers and Marines from nine countries gathered at the Tentara Nasional Indonesia (TNI) Ankatan Darat, or Indonesian Army, infantry center to mark the official opening of Exercise Garuda Shield 2009, in Bandung, Indonesia, June 16.

USNS Byrd Crew Gears Up for Pacific Partnership Mission

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 20:13:42 GMT

WASHINGTON -- A four-month humanitarian mission to the South Pacific led by the Navy’s U.S. Pacific Fleet will begin this month as planned despite a switch in ships, the mission commander said.

Northern Edge Brings Services Together in 'Last Frontier'

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:16:42 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines have come together to hone their warfighting capabilities during the largest military training exercise in Alaska.

Multimission Ship Departs Pearl Harbor for Western Pacific Deployment

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 18:42:23 GMT

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- More than 200 Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Crommelin (FFG 37) departed Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a scheduled six-month deployment to the Western Pacific June 15.

19 Nations Gather for United Nations Classes

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:34:15 GMT

BANDUNG, Indonesia – Officers from 19 nations gathered, June 11, in Bandung, Indonesia, approximately 80 miles from Jakarta, for three days of academic classes as part of Garuda Shield 09.

Marine Attack Squadron Fires Missile from Harrier

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:21:05 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa -- Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 211, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, set the precedence in Marine Corps aviation advancement June 8, as the first fleet aircraft, forward deployed unit to fire the Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile AIM-120B from an AV-8B Harrier.

Essex Departs For Talisman Saber

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:59:44 GMT

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Sasebo, Japan, for exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09) June 12.

71st Chemical Team Gives Pacific New Capability

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:55:33 GMT

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii -- Under the relentless Hawaiian sun, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Soldiers of 3rd Platoon, 71st Chemical Company donned cumbersome personal protective equipment and set forth on a historical journey.

U.S. Navy Ship Joins Joint Humanitarian Search Effort Off Vietnam Coast

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 04:50:30 GMT

HANOI, Vietnam – The longstanding cooperation between the United States and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV) on accounting for Americans missing from the Vietnam War broadened June 11 with the deployment of a U.S. Navy oceanographic survey ship to conduct search operations off the coast of Vietnam.

Fraser Confirmed as Next SOUTHCOM Commander

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:23:07 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii – U.S. Pacific Command’s Deputy Commander, U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Douglas M. Fraser, will be promoted to the rank of general and take command of U.S. Southern Command June 25.

Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Honors Midway Veterans

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:41:06 GMT

USS THACH, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group paid homage to veterans of the Battle of Midway and WWII in a special burial at sea ceremony in the Central Pacific June 6.

George Washington CSG Departs Japan on First Summer Deployment

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:33:06 GMT

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The Carrier Strike Group centered around the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (CVN 73), departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan for its first annual summer deployment June 10.

Singapore, US Navies Renew Ties as CARAT Begins

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:46:53 GMT

SINGAPORE – The second phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2009 offers an opportunity for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard to work again with members of the Singapore Armed Forces, most notably the Republic of Singapore Navy – one of the most modern navies in Southeast Asia.

Vietnamese Military Officials Visit PACAF Leadership

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 23:19:13 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Members of the Vietnam National Search and Rescue Committee visited Pacific Air Forces leaders here June 2 to discuss future humanitarian and search-and-rescue exercises.

Fighter Squadron Prepares for Northern Edge Exercise

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:07:02 GMT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Since returning from a deployment to Iraq, the 14th Fighter Squadron has spent the last three months executing a training plan to get all the pilots current and proficient in their home station mission.

George Washington, Airwing, Complete Evaluation

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 20:16:19 GMT

WESTERN PACIFIC OCEAN -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 5 successfully completed a Combat Operations Efficiency (COE) evaluation June 2.

B-52 Bombers Deploy to Andersen AFB

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:27:39 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Approximately 300 Airmen and three B-52 Stratofortress bombers from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., deployed here May 30 as part of a rotational bomber deployment to maintain stability and security in the Western Pacific.

Airmen Prepare for Redeployment Following Pacific Mission

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 19:21:18 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Airmen are preparing to redeploy to Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., after completing more than 120 flights, or sorties, in three and a half months while supporting the Continuous Bomber Presence here.

USARPAC’s Joint Task Force Homeland Defense Participates in Hurricane Preparedness Exercise

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 01:43:28 GMT

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii -- Military and civil authorities test their skills this week for emergency response to a category four hurricane during Exercise Makani Pahili ’09 .

First AMC Overseas Operations Wing Supporting Joint Mission

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 19:45:52 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- The 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing celebrates its one-year anniversary June 5, operating as Air Mobility Command's (AMC) first overseas wing, supporting AMC aircraft and crews with maintenance, aerial port, and command and control operations while transiting the Pacific.

Gates Visits Philippines to Reaffirm U.S. Commitment

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:18:58 GMT

MANILA, Philippines, June 1, 2009 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates made a brief stop here today to reaffirm U.S. commitment to the country’s fight against terrorism.

Gates Outlines Administration’s Asia Security Strategy

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:15:44 GMT

SINGAPORE, May 30, 2009 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates opened the “Shangri-La Dialogue” Asia security summit here today outlining a broad set of regional security issues and promising continued support from the U.S. administration.

Pacific Conference Focuses on 'Art, Science' of Knowledge Management

Sat, 30 May 2009 00:32:19 GMT

FORD ISLAND, Hawaii (NNS) -- The art and science of knowledge management (KM) was a theme in opening remarks by the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet for the 2009 Pacific Fleet Knowledge Management Conference, May 27-29.

Joint Team Moves Critically Ill Infants Over Holiday Weekend

Fri, 29 May 2009 23:59:53 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (May 29, 2009) - A joint team of U.S. servicemembers spanning the globe from Japan to Texas successfully moved two critically ill infants needing specialized care over the Memorial Day weekend.

Top Pacific Commander Embraces Early Leadership Principles

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:25:41 GMT

HONOLULU, May 28, 2009 – As young Tim Keating was growing up just outside Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, his parents taught him to treat other people the way he’d like his children, one day, to be treated, and as if all those other people outranked him.

Chafee, Philippine Sailors and U.S. Coast Guard Team Up For Security Training

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:25:03 GMT

CEBU STRAITS, Philippines (NNS) -- A team of Philippine Navy and U.S. Coast Guard personnel participated in a simulated visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) mission May 25 aboard the U.S. guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) as part of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2009.

1st ASOG Airmen Excel as PACAF's Newest Combat Team

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:24:08 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Just eight months into being re-assigned to Pacific Air Forces, 1st Air Support Operations Group Airmen continue to demonstrate why they are one of the most requested combat support units in the Air Force.

Vietnamese, Indonesian Officials Visit Andersen for Information Exchange

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:23:09 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Members of the 736th Security Forces Squadron hosted Vietnamese and Indonesian officials for the Subject Matter Expert Exchange held here May 17-19.

U.S. Navy Destroyer USS Chung-Hoon Makes Port Call to Bali

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:57:32 GMT

BALI, Indonesia -- The Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) arrived Monday morning to anchor off the coast of Bali for a scheduled port visit to the southern Indonesian island.

CARAT 2009 Marks 15 Years of Enhancing Maritime Cooperation

Tue, 26 May 2009 23:23:06 GMT

CEBU CITY, Philippines (May 22, 2009) - The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise series celebrated a milestone May 21, beginning its 15th year of strengthening maritime relationships.

Sailors, Cambodians Work Together, Provide Medical Aid in Pursat

Fri, 22 May 2009 21:06:57 GMT

PURSAT PROVINCE, Cambodia -- U.S. Navy medical personnel from 3rd Medical Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, here, participated in Cambodian Interoperability Program 2009, a medical and dental capabilities exercise which started May 11.

Remembering Seoul's Hidden American Heroes

Fri, 22 May 2009 20:39:42 GMT

SEOUL, Republic of Korea - As Memorial Day approaches, veterans cemeteries from Omaha Beach in Normandy, France to Arlington, Virginia will fill with visitors remembering Soldiers who served and sometimes gave their lives fighting for freedom.

Gates Urges Participation in Memorial Day Moment of Silence

Thu, 21 May 2009 19:38:20 GMT

WASHINGTON – In his annual Memorial Day message to servicemembers worldwide, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates urges the nation's men and women in uniform to observe a moment of silence on the holiday to honor their fallen comrades.

Exercise Tests Misawa’s Readiness

Thu, 21 May 2009 18:55:31 GMT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan - The 35th Fighter Wing kicked-off a three-day initial readiness response exercise May 18. This is the first IRRE the wing has held in 15 months.

USS George Washington, Air Wing Conduct Efficiency Evaluation

Wed, 20 May 2009 21:33:43 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan - USS George Washington (CVN 73), with nearly 5,000 Sailors, departed its forward-deployed port of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka Wed., May 20, to conduct its Combat Operations Efficiency evaluation in the Western Pacific.

JPAC Searches for Korean War MIAs in South Korea

Wed, 20 May 2009 21:33:18 GMT

SEOUL, South Korea - Military members of a Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command recovery team conducted excavation operations in the South Korea province of Kangwon on May 18.

Pacific Partnership 09 To Continue on USNS Richard E. Byrd

Tue, 19 May 2009 22:29:19 GMT

PEARL HARBOR – The Pacific Partnership mission now will deploy on board USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4), a Military Sealift Command underway replenishment ship assigned to Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet.

F-22s Deploy to Support PACOM Strategy

Tue, 19 May 2009 21:42:38 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- A contingent of 12 F-22 Raptors landed here May 13 completing the arrival of more than 200 Airmen from the 525th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron from Elmendorf AFB, Alaska.

U.S. Army Dentist Brings Dental Relief to Mindanao

Tue, 19 May 2009 18:26:17 GMT

CAMP SIONGCO, Cotabato, Philippines -- A visiting dental team from the U.S. Army’s 1st Special Forces Group took a whirlwind tour of Mindanao May 11-15, conducting a series of small-scale Dental Civic Action Programs and bringing relief to more than 100 Filipinos.

Pacific Command Strategy Centers on Partnership, Readiness, Presence

Mon, 18 May 2009 18:54:45 GMT

HONOLULU (May 18, 2009) – The three major tenets of the U.S. Pacific Command strategy – partnership, readiness and presence – are having a powerful impact in bringing together the joint, interagency and international capabilities required to promote regional stability, the command’s top officer told American Forces Press Service.

McCampbell Represents U.S. Navy at Shimoda Black Ship Festival

Mon, 18 May 2009 17:59:37 GMT

SHIMODA, Japan (May 17, 2009) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) visited Shimoda, Japan, May 15-17 in support of the 70th Shimoda Black Ship Festival.

Helo Squadron Joins Korean Navy in Combined Exercise

Fri, 15 May 2009 19:39:35 GMT

POHANG, Republic of Korea (May 14, 2009) – An MH-53E "Sea Dragon" from Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14, Detachment 1 (HM 14 Det. 1) practiced operating with two Republic of Korea (ROK) naval vessels May 12 off the coast of Pohang, ROK.

2009 Armed Forces Day

Fri, 15 May 2009 19:38:24 GMT

On Saturday, May 16th, we pause to commemorate Armed Forces Day and pay tribute to all active duty Service members, National Guardsmen and Reservists, who, through the thickest of wars and greatest of crises, have raised their hands high to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.

Keating Visit Promotes Growing U.S.-India Military Relationship

Fri, 15 May 2009 01:47:24 GMT

NEW DELHI (May 14, 2009) – The senior U.S. commander in the Pacific today shared with Indian government and military leaders the importance of the U.S.-Indian military relationship in furthering peace and stability in a challenging neighborhood.

Air Force Leaders Name Next Top Enlisted Leader

Thu, 14 May 2009 19:05:43 GMT

WASHINGTON (May 12, 2009) – Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley have announced the Airman selected to be the service's next enlisted leader.

90 Fellows Graduate From Anti-terrorism Course

Thu, 14 May 2009 18:59:19 GMT

HONOLULU (May 12, 2009) – Ninety Fellows graduated May 12 from the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies’ Comprehensive Security Responses to Terrorism (CSRT) Course in Honolulu.

USS Chafee Visits Hong Kong

Thu, 14 May 2009 18:58:04 GMT

HONG KONG (May 11, 2009) � The guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) arrived in Hong Kong May 11 to conduct a five-day port visit as part of an ongoing effort to enhance relations and interoperability throughout the region.

U.S., Australia, India Train to Improve Medical Care in Pacific

Thu, 14 May 2009 02:44:32 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (May 13, 2009) – Thirty-two critical care specialists from the United States, Australia and India are scheduled to train on the movement of severely-ill patients in the Pacific theater during a course here May 11-15.

Admiral Cites Partnership, Commitment as Keys to Piracy Crackdown

Wed, 13 May 2009 19:23:31 GMT

ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT (May 13, 2009) –With piracy generating big news in the Gulf of Aden, a far-less-recognized multilateral partnership has brought pirates’ swashbuckling days to a virtual halt in the strategic Strait of Malacca.

U.S. Air Force to Deploy Raptors to Japan, Guam

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:39:29 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (May 11, 2009) – The U.S. Air Force is scheduled to deploy two contingents of F-22A Raptors to the Pacific theater in May for approximately four months.

Aviation Trade Show Features F-22A, Other Aircraft

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:38:20 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (May 11, 2009) – An F-22A Raptor from here was among the more than 60 aircraft on display at the 12th Annual Alaska State Aviation Trade Show & Conference at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska, May 2-3.

Air Force Builds Medical Facility, Improves Medical Care for Palau

Mon, 11 May 2009 23:01:43 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (May 11, 2009) –The Civil Action Team program, a joint humanitarian operation, recently opened a new Air Force-built medical facility on the Micronesian island of Palau.

PACOM Senior Enlisted Selected for Top Air Force Post

Sat, 09 May 2009 02:52:43 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii (May 8, 2009) – Air Force officials announced today that Chief Master Sergeant James A. Roy, currently the Senior Enlisted Leader and advisor to U.S. Pacific Command will be the next Chief Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force following a ceremony on June 30, 2009.

Singapore Soldiers Visit, Exchange Information With Hawaii-based Soldiers

Thu, 07 May 2009 18:48:20 GMT

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii (May 6, 2009) – Members of the Singapore Army visited Soldiers of the 71st Chemical Company, 45th Sustainment Brigade April 28 here to see the capabilities of their equipment.

CDC Confirms Soldier has H1N1 Flu

Wed, 06 May 2009 23:09:22 GMT

HONOLULU (May 6, 2009) – As noted in the Governor of Hawaii’s news release today, the Centers for Disease Control confirmed that a Hawaii-based Soldier and his spouse have contracted the novel influenza A H1N1 infection.

Pacific Partnership '09 To Continue Without USS Dubuque

Wed, 06 May 2009 17:25:22 GMT

PEARL HARBOR (May 5, 2009) – The Pacific Partnership mission will take place this summer, although not aboard USS Dubuque (LPD 8) because of concerns the H1N1 virus could be spread.

India, Japan, U.S. Foster Relationships During MALABAR

Tue, 05 May 2009 20:20:59 GMT

PACIFIC OCEAN (May 5, 2009) – The Indian Navy, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and U.S. Navy expanded their maritime partnerships during exercise MALABAR 2009, held off the coast of Japan April 29 - May 3.

Chinese Vessels Approach Sealift Command Ship in Yellow Sea

Tue, 05 May 2009 20:20:35 GMT

WASHINGTON (May 5, 2009) – Chinese fishing vessels closed in on and maneuvered near the USNS Victorious in international waters in the Yellow Sea on May 1, Pentagon officials said today.

Multi-national Engineers Work Together, Restore Education for Filipino Community

Mon, 04 May 2009 19:48:13 GMT

ARAYAT, PAMPANGA, Philippines (May 4, 2009) – For more than 1,400 elementary school children and teachers at the San Nicolas and San Agustin Elementary Schools here, the dreams of a better learning environment is now reality thanks to more than 50 military and civilian engineers from the Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the United States.

U.S. Helicopters Train with Korean Flat Top

Fri, 01 May 2009 18:22:14 GMT

AT SEA (May 1, 2009) - Two MH-53E “Sea Dragon” helicopters from Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14, Detachment One (HM-14 Det 1) practiced operating with the Republic of Korea ship DOKDO (LPH 6111) May 1 off the coast of Pohang.

USS Mustin Visits Donghae, Republic of Korea

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 20:29:18 GMT

DONGHAE, Republic of Korea (April 30, 2009) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) arrived in Donghae, Republic of Korea (ROK) for a scheduled port visit April 30.

PACAF Advises Airmen on H1N1 Flu Outbreak

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 19:48:48 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (April 30, 2009) -- Pacific Air Forces officials are urging Airmen, civilian personnel and family members to practice good health habits to help prevent the spread of H1N1.

U.S. Coast Guard Participates in Japanese Sea Review

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:00:27 GMT

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (April 27, 2009) -- Seven U.S. Coast Guard flight crew members aboard an HC-130 Hercules Long Range Surveillance Aircraft demonstrated their unit's capabilities for Japanese Coast Guard leaders and the citizens of Tokyo April 26 during an annual sea review and comprehensive drill in Tokyo Bay.

PACOM Encourages Preventive Measures Against H1N1 Influenza Virus

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:38:16 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii (April 28, 2009) -- Military medical professionals throughout the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) area of responsibility (AOR) are closely monitoring the current outbreak of the H1N1 influenza virus and are encouraging everyone to exercise normal precautionary measures they use during the flu season.

RP, U.S. Marines Share War-fighting Tactics During Live-fire Training

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:32:12 GMT

CLARK AIR BASE, Republic of the Philippines (April 28, 2009) -- U.S. Marines and Sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Republic of the Philippine Armed Forces members forged tight bonds due to a successful culminating training event during the Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise (CALFEX) on April 25.

U.S., India, Japan Open Malabar 2009

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 22:59:45 GMT

SASEBO, Japan (April 26, 2009) – Ships and Sailors from the United States, India, and Japan gathered in Sasebo, Japan, April 26, to kick-off the trilateral exercise Malabar 2009.

USS Mitscher visits Republic of Maldives

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 22:58:46 GMT

MALÉ, Republic of Maldives (April 26, 2009) – The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) arrived in the Malé Atoll April 26 for a scheduled port visit.

Communication Secure with AFP, U.S. for Future Operations

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:47:10 GMT

CAMP EMILIO AGUINALDO, Republic of the Philippines – Military communications personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States trained together April 22-24, in hopes of establishing secure radio channels for current and future real-world activities.

Vietnamese Ministry of Defense Officials Visit USS John C. Stennis

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 22:28:56 GMT

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea 4/22/2009 -- Vietnamese Ministry of Defense staff visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), marking the first visit by members of the Vietnamese military to a U.S. aircraft carrier.

Marines, Philippine Air Forces Conduct Balikatan Parachute Training

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:31:07 GMT

CLARK AIR BASE, Republic of the Philippines 4/23/2009 -- Republic of the Philippines Air Force members with the 710th Special Operations Wing and U.S. Marines with Amphibious Reconnaissance Platoon and Deep Reconnaissance Platoon, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, came together to fly thousands of feet above the ground at Drop Zone Expo, April 20-23, in support of Balikatan 2009.

U.S. 7th Fleet to Conduct Exercise Malabar With Japan, Indian Navies

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 19:46:17 GMT

OKINAWA, Japan (April 23, 2009) – Ships, aircraft and submarines from the United States, Japan and India will take part in Exercise Malabar 09 off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, April 26 to May 3.

Pioduran Road Construction Makes Great Progress During Balikatan 09

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 19:45:45 GMT

ALBAY PROVINCE, Republic of the Philippines (April 23, 2009) – Philippine soldiers with 565 Construction Engineer Battalion (565 CEB), Philippine Army, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadrons 171 and 172 (MWSS-171 and MWSS-172) continued the construction of a new road in Pioduran here, during Balikatan 2009.

Philippines, U.S. Work Together to Bring Medical Aid to Remote Town

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:55:09 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (April 22, 2009) –The residents of a remote village in southern Mindanao benefitted from the medical services of military and civilian healthcare providers at a medical civic action program April 18 under the banner of Balikatan 2009.

F-22s, B-2s conduct historic overseas deployment to the Pacific

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:58:10 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (April 21, 2009) –Twelve F-22 Raptors departed here recently following a historic deployment marking the first time, F-22 Raptors and B-2 Spirits, the key national strategic stealth assets in the Air Force inventory, deployed together outside the continental United States.

RP, U.S. Balikatan Commanders Receive Bilateral Update

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 20:41:13 GMT

CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Philippines (April 21, 2009) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. forces held the first bilateral commander’s brief for Balikatan 2009 at the Command and General Staff College here April 20.

U.S., Philippine Sailors Bring Joy to Special-Needs Students

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:11:20 GMT

OLONGAPO CITY, Republic of the Philippines (April 20, 2009) – Sailors from Amphibious Squadron Eleven (PHIBRON-11) and the Philippine Navy took part in a community relations project (COMREL) at Kalalake Elementary School during Exercise Balikatan 2009 (BK09).

USS Fitzgerald arrives in Qingdao, China

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:34:57 GMT

QINGDAO, People’s Republic of China (April 20, 2009) – The forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) arrived in Qingdao, People’s Republic of China, April 19, for a scheduled port visit and to take part in the 2009 International Fleet Review.

BK09 Humanitarian Projects Bring Promise of Clean Water to Many in Masbate Province

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:42:49 GMT

MASBATE PROVINCE, Republic of the Philippines (April 17, 2009) – Engineers with the 356th Aviation Engineering Group (356th AEG), Philippine Air Force, Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. Navy Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Forty (NMCB 40), worked together April 16, to build two new water well systems in the Dap Dap and Sawang areas of Masbate.

Balikatan 2009 Begins

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:26:07 GMT

QUEZON CITY, Republic of the Philippines (April 16, 2009) – Balikatan 2009 officially kicked off April 16, during an opening ceremony held at the Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo.

25th Fighter Squadron hosts "Buddy-Wing" Program

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:25:37 GMT

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea (April 15, 2009) -- Members of the 25th Fighter Squadron here hosted Airmen from the Republic of Korea's 15th Composite Wing April 13-15 for a "Buddy Wing" exercise and exchange program.

AFP, U.S. Marines Work Together, Perform Amphibious Raid

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 22:02:49 GMT

MARINE BASE TERNATE, Republic of the Philippines (April 14, 2009) – As part of Balikatan 09, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 48th Marine Company, 8th Marine Battalion and U.S. Marines and sailors of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in a bilateral boat raid activity here April 13.

F-22 exchange pilot helps strengthen U.S., Australian ties

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 02:00:52 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (April 14, 2009) -- A Royal Australian Air Force pilot assigned to the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron has had the opportunity to fly the United States Air Force's premier fighter, the F-22 Raptor, as part of a foreign pilot exchange program.

Bilateral Planning sets the stage for Balikatan ‘09

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:32:15 GMT

USS ESSEX, South China Sea (April 13, 2009) -- Operational leadership representing members of the Philippine Navy and Marine Corps, worked together recently with planning members from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Amphibious Squadron 11 (PHIBRON) to coordinate at-sea planning events for Balikatan 2009.

Stennis Strengthens International Friendship in Thailand

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 19:31:36 GMT

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (April 13, 2009) -- Sailors from John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group visited Laem Chabang, Thailand, for a scheduled port visit April 9-13.

U.S., Filipino Military Work Together to Benefit More than 5,000 Students

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 23:05:38 GMT

JUBAN, Sorsogon, Republic of the Philippines (April 10, 2009) -- U.S. Sailors and Marines are working with engineers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines to construct a new high school and road in the Juban Province of Sorsogon during Exercise Balikatan 2009.

Seal Beach Hosts Republic of Korea Navy Personnel

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 23:04:59 GMT

SEAL BEACH, Calif. (April 10, 2009) -- Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Seal Beach hosted eight officers and senior enlisted personnel from the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) for a roundtable discussion April 6-7 on ordnance as part of the close maritime partnership that exists between the United States and the Republic of Korea.

Essex Sailors, Marines Prep for Building Relations as part of Balikatan

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 19:56:16 GMT

OKINAWA, Japan (April 9, 2009) -- Forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed onloading more than 1,400 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) April 8 as part of Essex Amphibious Ready Group's (ESX ARG) participation in exercise Balikatan 2009 at the request of the government of the Republic of the Philippines.

John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group Visits Thailand

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:42:28 GMT

LAEM CHABANG, Thailand (April 9, 2009) -- John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) arrived in Laem Chabang, Thailand April 9 for a scheduled port visit during its western Pacific Ocean deployment.

U.S. Navy Seabee Saves Life of Masbate Toddler

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:41:34 GMT

LEGAZPI CITY, Republic of the Philippines (April 7, 2009) -- A U.S. Navy Seabee participating in Balikatan 2009, a bilateral humanitarian assistance and training activity with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, provided life-saving medical care to a Masbate Province toddler, who had stopped breathing after falling into a pool on April 6 at about 6 P.M.

ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) to Hold First Disaster Relief Exercise in the Philippines

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 03:08:15 GMT

WASHINGTON (April 6, 2009) -- The United States and the Republic of the Philippines will co-sponsor the May 4-8 ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Voluntary Demonstration of Response (VDR) in the Philippines.

U.S., Cambodian Divers Engage in Cooperative Training

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 21:06:28 GMT

SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia (NNS) -- U.S. Navy Divers joined their Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) counterparts in Cambodian waters for a first-of-its-kind professional dive exchange between the two countries during a five-day port visit March 31-April 4.

Airmen continue tradition of volunteering

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 23:37:55 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (April 3, 2009) - A team of Airmen, led by one of Kadena Air Base's own, has worked tirelessly to bring joy to children from the Misato Children's Home for the past ten years.

Pacific Airmen train JASDF on air refueling

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 21:05:19 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (April 2, 2009) - A team of Kadena's HH-60G Pave Hawk pilots got together with JASDF helicopter rescue pilots for a three-day intensive course on air refueling.

AFP, JSOTF-P provide teacher training to Mindanao educators

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:23:55 GMT

ZAMBOANGA, Republic of the Philippines (March 31, 2009) -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines and Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSTOF-P) sponsored an educational outreach seminar in Parang, Mindanao, March 21, welcoming nearly 40 area elementary school teachers to help improve their classroom techniques.

Red Flag-Alaska begins 2009 season

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 20:08:53 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (Mar. 31, 2009) - Approximately 1,400 U.S. and foreign participants are beginning to gather here this week to participate in Red Flag-Alaska 09-2, scheduled for April 16 to May 1.

Pacific Airmen bring clean water to Kwajalein

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:19:03 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (Mar. 27, 2009) - Airmen from several Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) bases are deployed on a mission to provide clean drinking water to residents of Roi-Namur, the second largest and northernmost island within the Kwajalein Atoll.

U.S., ROK Air Commanders Take Back-Seat Rides

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 20:47:06 GMT

DAEGU AIR BASE, Republic of Korea (Mar. 26, 2009) - U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jeffrey A. Remington, commander Seventh Air Force, Air Forces Korea was given a back-seat ride onboard the Republic of Korea (ROK) "next-generation fighter" F-15K at Daegu Air Base today.

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Fri, 27 Mar 2009 02:37:50 GMT

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China’s Military Capabilities Continue to Grow, Report Says

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:38:46 GMT

WASHINGTON (Mar. 25, 2009) - Transformation of the Chinese military has gained speed, but U.S. officials would like to see China become more transparent about military and security affairs, according to a report to Congress released today.

U.S. Air Force participates in New Zealand Air Show

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:30:53 GMT

WHENUAPAI AIR BASE, New Zealand (Mar. 23, 2009) - A C-17 Globemaster III crew of 14 from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, arrived March 18 at Royal New Zealand Air Force, Whenuapai Air Base for the 2009 Whenuapai Air Show, beginning March 21.

Airmen Provide Medical, Dental Care to Hundreds in Thailand

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 01:31:03 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan 3/18/2009 -– Members from medical groups all over the Pacific Air Forces teamed up with Thai and Singaporean medical teams to provide much needed health care to the underprivileged in Thailand.

PACOM commander: Military relationship with China needs more work

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:33:37 GMT

WASHINGTON (Mar. 19, 2009) - The United States has made “some real headway” in improving relations with China, but “the relationship isn’t where we want it to be,” the top officer at U.S. Pacific Command told the Senate Armed Services Committee today.

Stennis Goodwill Tightens Bonds in South Korea

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:52:49 GMT

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (Mar. 18, 2009) - The USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) departed Busan, Republic of Korea March 15 after a four-day port visit.

Air Force wows crowds at Australia air show

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 23:19:21 GMT

AVALON AIRPORT, Victoria, Australia (Mar. 17, 2009) - About 100 Airmen from across the Air Force recently flew 'down under' to represent the U.S. military and demonstrate aircraft capabilities at the 2009 Australian International Airshow March 13-15.

Japan and U.S. forces come together to ‘Guard and Protect’

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 23:18:52 GMT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (Mar. 17, 2009) - U.S. and Japanese forces practiced defending the base during a Guard and Protect Exercise March 11-13.

U.S., Korean Sailors visit Pyeongtaek Rehabilitation Center

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:24:41 GMT

PYEONGTAEK, Republic of Korea (Mar. 16, 2009) -- Sailors of guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) and the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) visited the Ephatha Community Rehabilitation Center March 13 while the ship was anchored off the Pyeongtaek coast for a scheduled visit.

Air Force maintainers keep jets flying at Cope Tiger

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:02:58 GMT

KORAT, Thailand (Mar. 16, 2009) -- Air Force maintainers from Kadena Air Base are getting the chance to work alongside their Thai, Singaporean and sister service counterparts at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand during Cope Tiger 2009.

International students receive riverine training in U.S.

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:23:16 GMT

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. (Mar. 12, 2009) -- Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School (NAVSCIATTS) and the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC) conducted a joint Field Training Exercise (FTX) Mar. 6 on Stennis Space Center, Miss.

Exercise in Thailand shows multilateral partnership

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:11:35 GMT

KORAT, Thailand (Mar. 12, 2009) -- Approximately 20 military members from Thailand, Singapore and the United States are working together to coordinate the aerial missions throughout the region for Exercise Cope Tiger 2009 March 9 through 20 here.

Air Force, Navy pilots train together over Okinawa

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:46:21 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan3/10/2009 -- Air Force and Navy pilots are sharpening their aerial combat skills in simulated dogfights and strike missions in the skies over Okinawa from March 1 - 21.

8th Theater Sustainment Command Begins Command Post Exercise

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:45:50 GMT

CAMP ZAMA, Japan3/9/2009 -- The 8th Theater Sustainment Command (TSC) continued its path toward validation as a fully operational capable command, deploying its forward command post (FCP) here for a command post exercise (CPX), which began March 9.

Multinational exercise Cope Tiger 2009 kicks off

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:45:09 GMT

KORAT, Thailand3/9/2009 -–The first flights of Cope Tiger 2009 launched March 9, filling the skies above Thailand with fighter aircraft and signaling the 15th year of partnership between the United States, Thailand and Singapore militaries.

7th Fleet Ships Complete Multi-Sail Exercise

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:47:36 GMT

PACIFIC OCEAN (Mar. 6, 2009) -- The semi-annual five-day Multi-Sail exercise brought 7th Fleet ships together to improve warfare mission readiness March 1-5, off the coast of Okinawa, Japan.

Marines host exchange for Japanese officer candidates

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:36:59 GMT

CAMP KINSER, Okinawa (Mar. 6, 2009) -- Marines from Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, hosted 320 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officer candidates during the Japanese Observer Exchange Program at the Camp Kinser Surfside Feb. 25.

Kadena Deploys F-15s and personnel for Exercise Cope Tiger

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 19:49:26 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (Mar. 5, 2009) -- The 18th Wing deployed 12 F-15 Eagles and about 170 Airmen to Thailand Monday to participate in exercise Cope Tiger 2009 from March 9-20.

Successful Deep Freeze season comes to an end

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 20:06:43 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Another season of Department of Defense support to the U.S. Antarctic Program and National Science Foundation activities in Antarctica came to an end Feb. 28.

Pacific Fleet Announces Pacific Partnership 2009

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 23:36:15 GMT

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii -- Preparations are underway for Pacific Partnership 2009, the fourth in a series of annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian civic assistance missions, the commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMPACFLT) announced on his blog March 3.

GW Sailors Form Official Partnership with Local School

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:53:12 GMT

YOKOSUKA, Japan -- Sailors from the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (GW)(CVN 73) along with students and staff from a Fleet Activities Yokosuka school met Feb. 23 to formalize an agreement increasing support and cooperation between the two.

Kadena Airmen advise Afghans on Russian-made helicopters

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 20:44:44 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (Mar. 1, 2009) -- Kadena Airmen are contributing to the readiness of the fledging Afghan National Army Air Corps by serving as advisors to Afghan airmen who maintain the Russian-made MI-17 transport helicopter.

U.S., Thai, Singapore forces to participate in Cope Tiger

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 21:00:30 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Aviation and ground units from the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, the Royal Thai Air Force and army, and the Republic of Singapore Air Force are scheduled to participate in Exercise Cope Tiger 2009 March 9 through 20 in Thailand.

Essex Departs Thailand After Strengthening Ties with Host Nation

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 21:00:01 GMT

PATTAYA, Thailand (NNS) -- The forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Pattaya, Thailand Feb. 23, after wrapping up exercise Cobra Gold with a four-day port visit.

Marines, Sailors depart Maldives, exercise complete

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:59:27 GMT

MALDIVES -- USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and USS Comstock (LSD 45) from the Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG), along with elements of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed the Maldives Feb. 24, following Exercise Coconut Grove.

31st MEU Marines, Sailors Help Thai School Children

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:58:44 GMT

SATTAHIP, Thailand -- The men and women of the 31st MEU joined forces with members of the Royal Thai Navy and Marine Corps to help more than 550 elementary school children attending two schools in Thailand by donating more than 100 boxes of clothing, backpacks, toys, teaching English, playing soccer, and sharing smiles.

Asia-Pacific Intelligence Leaders Discuss Threats in Singapore

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 01:58:27 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii -- Military intelligence professionals from the armed forces of 25 Asia-Pacific nations and beyond gathered together in Singapore Feb. 17-20 to explore ways to increase information sharing to counter common threats.

USARPAC wins best force protection program award

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:10:47 GMT

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii (Feb. 24, 2009) - The Department of the Army (DA) awarded U.S. Army-Pacific (USARPAC) the Best Force Protection Program Award for 2008, recently, during the opening ceremony of the annual Army Antiterrorism Conference in Buena Vista, Fla.

13th Bomb Squadron takes over Global Deterrence mission

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:42:29 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- More than 250 Airmen and four B-2 Spirits, deployed from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., began arriving here Feb. 23, to replace the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron and its B-52 Stratofortress' in support of the U.S. Pacific Command Continuous Bomber Presence in the region.

Boutwell arrives in the Republic Of Maldives

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:38:25 GMT

REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES (NNS) (Feb. 23, 2009) -- The United States Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell (WHEC 719) arrived in the Republic of Maldives Feb. 21 for a scheduled port visit.

Royal Thai, U.S. Marines finish strong during Cobra Gold 2009

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:10:29 GMT

SAMAESAN, Thailand -- Throughout the year, the 31st MEU conducts a variety of exercises and operations focusing on humanitarian assistance, military operations, and most often, bilateral training. Exercise Cobra Gold 2009 is no exception.

U.S. Airman first to attend Singaporean Leadership School

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:55:46 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (Feb. 20, 2009) -- A Kadena Air Base senior NCO recently made history, becoming the first U.S. Airman to attend the advanced leadership program at Singapore's Armed Forces Warrant Officer School.

Kadena NCO Academy trains joint partners

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:51:31 GMT

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (Feb. 19, 2009) -- The Erwin Professional Military Education Center's NCO Academy bridged culture gaps of more than one kind recently as it graduated two Japan Air Self Defense Force NCOs as well as noncoms from each of the three sister U.S. military services.

U.S. 7th Fleet Flagship Arrives in Manila

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 02:02:12 GMT

MANILA, Philippines (Feb. 19, 2009) -- USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) pulled into Manila, beginning the crew’s routine port visit to one of South East Asia's major seaports to interact with the community and demonstrate the United States’ growing relationship with the Republic of the Philippines.

U.S. Navy ship arrives in India for visit

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 19:43:37 GMT

Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) arrived in Cochin, India, Feb. 16, to promote peace and stability and provide the crew an opportunity to experience the culture of India.

Japan MOFA hosts annual orientation course

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 19:53:51 GMT

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan (Feb. 17, 2009) -- The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted its 13th annual orientation course Feb. 10-13, which gave a rare training opportunity to 20 officers from the four U.S. military branches serving throughout Japan.

Cobra Gold 09 comes to an end

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 19:28:06 GMT

CHIANG MAI, Thailand, Feb. 17, 2009 – Hundreds of people gathered here to celebrate the end of yet another successful Cobra Gold exercise Feb. 17.

Cobra Gold troops assist local orphanage

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 20:11:41 GMT

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (Feb. 16, 2009) – As part of Exercise Cobra Gold 09, Singaporean and U.S. servicemembers came together Feb. 14 and 15 to lend a helping hand to a local children's home.

U.S., JASDF complete Cope North 09-1

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 21:01:24 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (Feb. 12, 2009) -- U.S. and Japanese forces completed an annual two-week bilateral exercise Feb. 13, that was designed to increase interoperability between the two nations.

Pacific Command Boss Shares Strategic Goals

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 21:34:43 GMT

WASHINGTON (Feb. 12, 2009) – U.S. Pacific Command remains vigilant toward the Chinese military while also working toward building a cooperative relationship, Pacom’s top officer told Defense Department bloggers and online journalists yesterday.

U.S. commitment to Pacific region showcased in India

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:09:52 GMT

AIR FORCE STATION YELAHANKA, India -- About 150 U.S. military personnel and Department of Defense civilians are among the thousands of people from around the globe taking part in the Aero India 09 air show here.

U.S. Pacific Command adopts social media to highlight mission

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:34:49 GMT

CAMP SMITH, Hawaii -– U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) has established a presence on several social media sites and is using new media tools as a means of communicating with and engaging various audiences.

U.S. military to participate in Aero India '09

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:34:08 GMT

HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- The United States military will be represented at the Aero India 09 air show at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bangalore, India, Feb. 11-15.

U.N. peacekeeping training conducted in Thailand

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:33:31 GMT

LOP BURI, Thailand -- Royal Thai Army forces hosted the United Nations Global Peacekeeping Operation Initiative (GPOI) certification in the jungle here Feb. 6.

Nagasaki locals welcome U.S. Sailors

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:32:42 GMT

NAGASAKI, Japan (NNS) (Feb. 10, 2009) -- USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked 7th Fleet staff Sailors engaged the local community Feb. 5-9 through community service programs and cultural exploration while on a routine scheduled port visit during their annual spring patrol.

Marines reach out to Pattaya orphanage during Cobra Gold '09

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:31:28 GMT

PATTAYA, Thailand (Feb. 7, 2009) -- More than 25 Marines and Sailors deployed in support of Exercise Cobra Gold 2009 participated in a community relations event at Father Ray Children's Village orphanage in Pattaya, Thailand.

Fitzgerald Arrives in Otaru, Engages Community

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 23:13:18 GMT

OTARU, Japan (NNS) (Feb. 6, 2009) -- The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) arrived off the coast of Otaru, Japan Feb. 5 for a scheduled port visit.

Blue Ridge, 7th Fleet Sailors Visit Nagasaki

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 23:11:13 GMT

NAGASAKI, Japan (Feb. 5, 2009) -- USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked 7th Fleet staff Sailors arrived in the Japanese “city of peace” Feb. 5 for a scheduled port visit.

'Cobra Gold' Soldiers, Thai Marines Build Classroom

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 23:38:06 GMT

CHANTHABURI, Thailand (Feb. 4, 2009) -- After 24 hours of non-stop travel, 30 Soldiers from Hawaii stepped off their bus into the early morning light and, for the first time, saw the place they will call home for the next three weeks: A two-story schoolhouse at the end of a large, dusty quad spotted with a few meager trees.

Cobra Gold '09 Kicks Off in Thailand

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 20:32:31 GMT

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (Feb. 4, 2009) – With an emphasis on friendship and cooperation, Exercise Cobra Gold 09, a
multi-national combined joint training exercise and humanitarian effort held throughout the Kingdom of
Thailand, launched here Feb. 4.

Bi-Lateral Breach Training at Cobra Gold

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:51:05 GMT

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (Feb. 3, 2008) - Five days of bilateral Dynamic Entry training culminated with a live exercise at the Thai 5th Special Forces Regiment training compound at Camp Khuwnian today, during which Thai special operations soldiers built and detonated interior and exterior linear charges as part of exercise Cobra Gold 2009.

Cobra Gold MPF Offload

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 02:26:44 GMT

LAEM CHA BANG, Thailand (Jan. 30, 2009) -- Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, conducted a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload operation in Laem Cha Bang, Thailand Jan. 28 in preparation for Exercise Cobra Gold 2009, scheduled for Feb. 4-17. Cobra Gold is an annual joint, combined exercise hosted by the Kingdom of Thailand and focused on maintaining and improving military interoperability among its participants.

Elmendorf Prepares for Possible Mt. Redoubt Eruption

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 18:31:18 GMT

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (Feb. 2, 2009) -- With the threat of an eruption at Mount Redoubt, located 106 miles southwest of Anchorage, people throughout Elmendorf AFB are preparing for the possibility of volcanic ash fall.

Kitty Hawk Honors Legacy of Ship, Crew

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 18:16:28 GMT

BREMERTON, Wash. (Jan. 31, 2009) -- More than 2,000 people, and millions of memories, filled USS Kitty Hawk’s hangar bay Jan. 31, as past and present crewmembers, families and friends gathered for a ceremony to honor the legacy of the Navy’s oldest active warship.

Lassen Makes Port Call to Bali

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:50:20 GMT

BALI, Indonesia (NNS) (Jan. 31, 2009) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) arrived off the coast of Bali Jan. 31 for a scheduled port visit to the southern Indonesian island.

Warbirds Train How They Fight During Tropic Fury Exercise

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:42:50 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (Jan. 31, 2009) -- Airmen assigned to the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron recently completed exercise Tropic Fury, a nine-day exercise conducted over the Pacific Ocean Jan. 20-29.

AMC Commander Underscores Airlift's Importance to Pacific Theater

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 01:10:18 GMT

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (Jan. 31, 2009) -- Enroute to New Zealand where he will embed in Operation DEEP FREEZE missions, Air Mobility Command's commander visited Andersen to reinforce the importance of the AMC's mission in the region.

Essex On-loads 31 MEU for Spring Patrol

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:53:34 GMT

USS ESSEX, At Sea (Jan. 31, 2009) - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed the on-load of more than 2,000 Marines and sailors from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) Jan. 29.

Lassen Completes Successful Dili Port Visit

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:19:34 GMT

DILI, Timor-Leste -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) departed Dili, Timor-Leste Jan. 29 after a scheduled port visit that brought Sailors into contact with the local culture through various community relations (COMREL) projects Jan. 26-29.

Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group, 13th MEU enter 7th Fleet

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:18:52 GMT

PACIFIC OCEAN -- USS Boxer (LHD 4) Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) entered the 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) Jan. 27, to support maritime security.

Alliance Refines ‘Edge’ as Exercise Ends

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:16:53 GMT

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The joint and bilateral exercise, Keen Edge 09, that took place at various U.S. and Japanese military facilities throughout Japan ended Jan 27,