OKINAWA, Japan –
The 10th Regional Support Group began 2014 actively engaged with the implementation of Pacific Utility and Logistics Support Enablers-Watercraft throughout the East Asia-Pacific. This daunting task combines competencies of the 7th Sustainment Brigade and two watercraft crews from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., with those of the 10th RSG, effectively adapting to ever changing requirements. This initiative compliments the commitment to rebalance and strengthen ties in the region and are in line with U.S. Pacific Command’s strategic initiatives.
The 10th RSG is charged with providing overall mission command, providing seamless sustainment support to regional joint and coalition partners throughout the region. PULSE-W crews are charged with timely execution of cargo transport in support of regional missions and exercises through June. Crews will have the opportunity to engage in bilateral training opportunities with the Japan Self-Defense Force, a first for Army watercraft teams. The implementation of these assets proves vital to theater specific initiatives, estimated to save upward of $5 million in shipping costs.
“We have a tremendous opportunity to display our flexibility by expounding on the employment of Pacific Utility and Logistics Support Enablers - Watercraft (PULSE-W). Aligned with strategic initiatives, the utilization of Army watercraft will allow us to exercise reserve stocks and maintaining crew proficiency, while ultimately providing a unique capability throughout the region to our joint and coalition partners,” said Maj. Josh Panek, 10th RSG deputy support operations officer.
Although a proof of principle, the possibilities are endless as to what these assets bring to the region - effectively enhancing our operational capabilities and overall responsiveness.
“As the operational commander for this exercise, it’s important I synchronize all the efforts from our joint strategic partners and ensure we provide a common operational picture for the entire logistics enterprise,” said Col. Sheila Bryant, commander of the 10th RSG. “This represents an important proof of principal using Army watercraft not for the first time as we have done this for Pacific Reach. However, this represents using watercraft over an extended period of time supporting various exercises with tremendous cost savings that we gain by doing this and keeping our watercraft in motion, which is vital to the success of this operation.”
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