winning battles

“To Marines, the term ‘expeditionary’ connotes morethan a given capability...it is a cultural mindset that

conditions our Marines...to do more with less and tobe prepared to fight and win.”

-Gen. James L. Jones,Commandant of the Marine Corps

Making Marines...

Winning Battles...

WESTPAC 02-1

The Fighting 13thThe Fighting 13thThe Fighting 13thThe Fighting 13thThe Fighting 13th

TABLE OF CONTENTS

History of the Marine Corps .................................... 1

13th MEU Capabilities .............................................. 4

MEU Overview ......................................................... 5

Structure Matrix of the 13th MEU .......................... 8

13th MEU Commanding Officer................................ 9

History of the 13th MEU......................................... 10

BLT 1/4 Commanding Officer ................................ 13

History of BLT 1/4 .................................................. 14

HMM-165 (Rein.) Commanding Officer ................ 15

History of HMM-165 .............................................. 16

MSSG-13 Commanding Officer ............................. 17

History of MSSG-13 ............................................... 18

Typical MEU Breakdown ....................................... 19

Weapons & Equipment ........................................... 20

Amphibious Ready Group ....................................... 35

Nov. 10, 1775, the Continental Congress passed a resolution stating that “twobattalions of Marines be raised” for service as landing forces with the fleet. Thisestablished the Continental Marines and marked the birth of the United StatesMarine Corps. Serving on land and at sea, early Marines distinguished themselves ina number of important operations, including their first amphibious raid on foreignsoil in the Bahamas in March 1776, under the command of the Corps’ first comman-

dant, Capt. Samuel Nicholas. The 1783 Treaty ofParis ended the Revolutionary War and as thelast of the Navy’s ships were sold, the Conti-nental Navy and Marines disbanded.

Following the formal re-establishment ofthe Marine Corps on July 11, 1798, Marinesfought in conflicts with France, landed in SantoDomingo and conducted operations against theBarbary pirates along the “Shores of Tripoli.”

Marines participated in numerous opera-tions during the War of 1812, including the defense of Washington at Bladensburg,Md. They also fought alongside Andrew Jackson in the defeat of the British at NewOrleans. Following the War of 1812, Marines protected American interests aroundthe world in areas like the Caribbean, the Falkland Islands, Sumatra and off the coastof West Africa, and close to home in operations against the Seminole Indians inFlorida.

During the Mexican War, Marines seized enemy seaports on both the Gulf andPacific coasts. While landing parties of Marines and Sailors were seizing enemyports, a battalion of Marines joined General Winfield Scott’s army at Pueblo andmarched and fought all the way to the “Halls ofMontezuma,” Mexico City.

Although most Marine Corps service duringthe Civil War was with the Navy, a battalionfought at Bull Run, and other units saw actionwith blockading squadrons at Cape Hatteras, NewOrleans, Charleston and Fort Fisher. During thelast third of the 19th century, Marines madenumerous landings around the world, especiallyin the orient and the Caribbean.

Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, Marines fought during thePhilippine Insurrection, the Boxer Rebellion in China, in Nicaragua, Panama, theDominican Republic, Cuba, Mexico and Haiti. In World War I, Marines distinguishedthemselves on the battlefields of France, as the 4th Marine Brigade earned the title of“Devil Dogs” for actions at Belleau Wood, Soissons, St. Michiel, Blanc Mont and

History

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the final Muesse-Argonne offensive.Marine aviation, which began in 1912, was used for the first time in a close-air

support role during WWI. More than 309,000 Marines served in France and morethan a third were killed or wounded in six months of intense fighting.

During the two decades before World War II, the Marine Corps began to morecompletely develop its doctrine and organization for amphibious warfare. Thesuccess of this effort was proven at Guadalcanal, Bougainville, Tarawa, New Britain,Kwajalein, Eniwetok, Saipan, Guam, Tinian, Peleliu, Iwo Jima and Okinawa. By the

war’s end in 1945, the Corps had grown to include sixdivisions, five air wings and supporting troops, about485,000 Marines. Nearly 87,000 Marines were killed orwounded during WWII and 82 earned the Medal ofHonor.

While Marine units were taking part in the post-war occupation of Japan and North China, studies atQuantico, Va., concentrated on attaining a “verticalenvelopment” capability for the Corps through the useof helicopters. Landing at Inchon, Korea, in September1950, Marines proved that the doctrine of amphibiousassault was still viable and necessary. After therecapture of Seoul, the Marines advanced to the Chosin

Reservoir only to see the Chinese Communists enter the war. In March 1955 after fiveyears of hard fighting, the last Marine ground forces were withdrawn. More than25,000 Marines had been killed or wounded during the Korean War.

In July 1958, a brigade-size force landed in Lebanon to restore order. During theCuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, a large amphibious force was assembled, butnot landed. In April 1965, a brigade of Marines landed in the Dominican Republic toprotect Americans and evacuate those who wished to leave.

The landing of the 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade at Da Nang in 1965 markedthe beginning of a large-scale Marine involvement in Vietnam. By the summer of1968, after the enemy’s Tet Offensive, Marine Corps strength in Vietnam rose to

about 85,000. The Marine withdrawalbegan in 1969 as the South Vietnamesebegan to assume a larger role in thefighting. The last ground forces leftVietnam by June 1971. The Vietnam War,the longest in the history of the MarineCorps, exacted a high cost, with more than13,000 Marines killed and 88,000 wounded.

In July 1974, Marines evacuated U.S.citizens and foreign nationals during theunrest in Cyprus.

During the mid-1970s, the Marine Corps assumed an increasingly significantrole in defending NATO’s northern flank as amphibious units of the 2nd MarineDivision participated in exercises throughout northern Europe. The Corps alsoplayed a key role in the development of the Rapid Deployment Force, a multi-service

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organization created to ensure a flexible, timely military response around the world.The Maritime Prepositioned Ships (MPS) concept was developed to enhance thiscapability and reduce response time. MPS ships carry combat support equipmentand are pre-staged near designated areas of operation.

An increasing number of terrorist attacks on U.S. embassies around the worldtook place in the 1980s. In August 1982, Marines landed at Beirut, Lebanon, as partof a multinational peacekeeping force. For the next 19 months these units faced thehazards of their mission with courage and professionalism. In October 1983, Marinestook part in the highly successful, short-notice intervention in Grenada.

In December 1989, Marines responded to instability in Central America duringOperation Just Cause in Panama to protect American lives and restore democracy.

The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 led to the largest movement ofMarine forces since World War II. Between August 1990 and January 1991, 24infantry battalions, 40 squadrons (more than 92,000 Marines) deployed to thePersian Gulf as part of Operation Desert Shield. The air campaign of OperationDesert Storm began Jan. 16, 1991, followed by the main overland attack Feb. 24 whenthe 1st and 2nd Marine Divisions breached the Iraqi defense lines and stormed intooccupied Kuwait. Meanwhile, the threat from the sea in the form of Marine Expedi-

tionary Brigades held 50,000 Iraqis in checkalong the Kuwait coast. By the morning ofFeb. 28, 100 hours after the ground warbegan, the Iraqi army was no longer a threat.

In December 1992, Marines landed inSomalia marking the beginning of a two-yearhumanitarian relief operation there. In anotherpart of the world, land-and carrier-basedMarine Corps fighter-attack squadrons andelectronic warfare aircraft supported Opera-

tion Deny Flight in the no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina. During April 1994,Marines once again demonstrated their ability to protect American citizens in remoteparts of the world when a Marine task force evacuated 142 U.S. citizens from Rwandain response to civil unrest in that country.

Closer to home, Marines went ashore in September 1994 at Cape Haitian, Haiti,as part of the U.S. force participating in the restoration of democracy in that country.At the same time, Marines were actively engaged in providing assistance toAmerica’s counter-drug effort, battling wildfires in the western United States, andaiding in flood and hurricane relief operations.

Today’s Marine Corps stands ready to continue in the proud tradition of thosewho so valiantly fought and died at Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, Chosin Reservoir andKhe Sanh. As stated by the Corps’ 31st commandant, General Charles C. Krulak:

“Our warfighting legacy is one of duty, strength, sacrifice, discipline, anddetermination. These themes are cornerstones of the individual Marine and of ourCorps. Indeed, they are woven into the very fabric of our battle color. However, whilewe reflect on our past, let us also rededicate ourselves to a future of improvement.For as good as we are now, we must be better tomorrow. The challenges of today arethe opportunities of the 21st century. Both will demand much of us all.”

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Marine ExpeditionarMarine ExpeditionarMarine ExpeditionarMarine ExpeditionarMarine Expeditionary Unity Unity Unity Unity UnitCapabilitiesCapabilitiesCapabilitiesCapabilitiesCapabilities

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Amphibious Operations* Amphibious Assault* Amphibious Raid* Amphibious Demonstration* Amphibious Withdrawal

Direct Action Operations* Seizure/Recovery of Offshore Energy Facilities* Visit, Board, Search and Seizure Operations (VBSS)* Specialized Demolition Operations* Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP)* Seizure/Recovery of Selected Personnel or Material* Counterproliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Military Operations Other Than W ar(MOOTW)

* Peace Operations- Peacekeeping- Peace Enforcement

* Security Operations* Noncombatant Evacuation Operations (NEO)* Reinforcement Operations* Joint/Combined Training/Instruction Team* Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief

Supporting Operations* Tactical Deception Operations* Fire Support Planning, Coordination and Control in a Joint/ Combined Environment* Signal Intelligence/Electronic Warfare* Military Operations in Urban Terrain* Reconnaissance and Surveillance* Initial Terminal Guidance* Counterintelligence Operations* Airfield/Port Seizure* Limited Expeditionary Airfield Operations* Show of Force Operations* Joint Task Force Enabling Operations* Sniping Operations

Since World War II, in nearly every crisis the United States has deployedprojection forces, the first military units to move ashore one of America’s FleetMarine Forces. These forces, with sufficient sustainability for prolonged operations,have been organized into Marine Air Ground Task Forces (MAGTF) — a combina-tion of air, ground and support assets.

MAGTFs are established forspecific missions, or in anticipationof a wide range of possiblemissions. Combining air, groundand logistic assets maximizes thecombat power of each of the warfighting elements.

MAGTFs have long providedthe United States with a broadspectrum of response optionswhen U.S. and allied interests havebeen threatened and in noncombatsituations which require instant

response to crisis. Selective, timely and credible commitment of air-ground unitshave, on many occasions, helped bring stability to a region and sent signalsworldwide to aggressors that the United States is not only willing to defend itsinterests, but able to do so with a significantly powerful force on extremely shortnotice.

The Marine Expedi-tionary Unit (MEU) is thesmallest of the MAGTFs.Together with its Navybrethren, they serve asthe nation’s forwarddeployed, quick-responseteam, capable of accom-plishing numerousmissions around theglobe.

The MEU, directedby a single commander, iscomprised of approxi-mately 2,100 Marines andSailors, embarked aboardthree ships configured as an amphibious ready group (ARG), which is commandedby an amphibious squadron (PHIBRON).

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MEU Overview

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The 13th MEU, working with PHIBRON-3 and the USS Bonhomme RichardARG comprises one such Navy/Marine Corps team. It is one of the three WestCoast-based MEUs from Camp Pendleton, Calif. These MEUs are routinly rotatedthrough the Western Pacific/Southwest Asia region for six months at a time.

The MEU’s major elements are the Command Element (CE), the Ground CombatElement (GCE), the Aviation Combat Element (ACE), and the Combat Service SupportElement (CSSE).

The CE is comprisedof the commanding officerand supporting staff. Itprovides the commandand coordination essentialfor effective planning andexecution of operations. Inaddition, the MEU CE isreinforced with specializeddetachments, such asreconnaissance andsurveillance elements,radio reconnaissance and electronic countermeasure teams, and intelligence andcounterintelligence assets.

The GCE for a MEU is the Battalion Landing Team. Based on the infantrybattalion, the BLT is reinforced with an artillery battery, amphibious assault vehicleplatoon, combat engineer platoon, light armored reconnaissance company, an M1A1Main Battle Tank platoon and a reconnaissance platoon.

The Aviation Combat Element provides air support. Composition is based onthe tactical situation, the MAGTF’smission and size, and space limitationswithin the ARG. For the 13th MEU, theACE is a reinforced medium helicoptersquadron comprised of CH-53E SuperStallion, CH-46 Sea Knight, UH-1N Hueyand AH-1W Super Cobra helicopters. The13th MEU also deploys with fixed wingAV-8B Harriers, and two KC-130 transportplanes are on standby at Marine Corps AirStation Mirimar, Calif. The ACE alsodeploys with an air traffic control, aircraftmaintenance/support and aviationlogistics/supply capability.

The final major piece of the MEU isthe CSSE. Relatively small in numbers,usually with less than 300 Marines andSailors, a MEU Service Support Groupprovides combat support, specifically:supply; maintenance; transportation;explosive ordnance disposal; military

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police; disbursing (pay services); water production and distribution; engineering;medical and dental services; fuel storage and distribution; and other services to thedeployed MEU.

The air-ground task force concept is designed to thoroughly exploit the combatpower inherent in air and ground assets by closely integrating them into a singleforce. The MEU brings what it needs to sustain itself from the sea for the rapidaccomplishment of the mission or to pave the way for follow-on forces. The size andcomposition of the MEU make it well suited for amphibious operations; securityoperations; noncombatant evacuation of civilians threatened by, or suffering fromviolence; special operations; and service as mobile training teams.

Prior to deployment, each MEU is thoroughly trained in 29 unique capabilities,ranging from humanitarian assistance to traditional amphibious assaults and specialoperations capable missions.

The MEU is not a special operations force by definition, nor does the MarineCorps provide forces with the primary mission of special operations. Though theMarine Corps does not have special operations units, MEUs are forward deployed in

“hot spots” around theworld and are able toperform many mis-sions in addition toconventional militaryfighting. An enhance-ment of individual andunit capabilities isreflected by thedesignation SpecialOperations Capable(SOC).

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Command Element13th Marine Expeditionary Unit

Col. Christopher J. GuntherCommanding Officer

13th Marine Expeditionary UnitOrganization Table

Ground Combat ElementBattalion Landing Team 1/4

LtCol. Robert O. SinclairCommanding Officer

Combat Service Support ElementMEU Service Support Group 13

LtCol. Rodman D. SansoneCommanding Officer

Aviation Combat ElementHMM - 165

LtCol. Gregg A. SturdivantCommanding Officer

940 Infantry Marines6 Howitzers

12 LAVs15 AAVs

Combat Engineer PlatoonReconnaissance Platoon

Tank Platoon

Headquarters DetachmentTransportation Support Battalion

DetachmentSupply Detachment

Maintenance DetachmentEngineer Support Detachment

Medical Detachment

12 CH-46 Sea Knights4 CH-53E Super Stallions

3 UH-1N Hueys4 AH-1W Super Cobras

6 AV-8B Harriers2 KC-130 Hercules

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Colonel Christopher J. Gunther, a native of Dayton,Ohio, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the MarineCorps in June 1974 following graduation from the Univer-sity of Minnesota, earning a B.S. in Mechanical Engineer-ing, and later a Master’s Degree in Government fromGeorgetown University in 1982.

After the Basic School in January 1975, he went to 3rdBattalion, 4th Marines, in Okinawa, where he served asPlatoon Commander and Company Executive Officer. InMay 1976, he reported to MCRD Parris Island, SouthCarolina. He served as Series Commander and CompanyExecutive Officer. In June 1979, he was assigned to HQMC,Washington, D.C., as monitor for the Enlisted Ground Combat Arms occupational fields.

Col. Gunther next attended the U.S. Army Infantry Officer Advanced Course, Ft.Benning, Ga., graduating in December 1982. He then reported to 2nd Battalion, 8thMarines, where he served as Weapons Company Commander and Battalion S-3. Whileassigned to 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, he participated in Operation Urgent Fury inGrenada and the Multinational Peacekeeping Operation, Lebanon. In October 1985, hewas assigned as the Regimental S-4, 8th Marines.

In July 1986, he attended the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Ft.Leavenworth, Kansas. Upon graduation, he was transferred to the Amphibious WarfareSchool, Quantico, Va., where he served as a Tactics Instructor for one year and theHead Tactics Instructor for two years.

In July 1990, Col. Gunther reported to the U.S. European Command, Stuttgart,Germany, where he worked in the Exercise Branch of the Operations Directorate.

In August 1993, he returned to the 2nd Marine Division and served as Command-ing Officer of 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines from November 1993 to November 1995. Hethen served as Executive Officer, 8th Marine Regiment, and Assistant Chief of Staff, G-1for the Division. While assigned to 2nd MarDiv, he participated in operations in Bosnia(1995) and in JTF Assured Response in Liberia (1996).

Col. Gunther was a Military Fellow at the Center for Strategic and InternationalStudies (CSIS), Washington, D.C., from July 1997 to June 1998. He was assigned to the IMEF G-3 section in August 1998. Col. Gunther commanded 13th MEU during WestPac00-2, when the unit participated in Operation Determined Response and a HumanitarianAssistance Operation in East Timor.

Col. Gunther’s personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious ServiceMedal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, threeNavy Commendation Medals (one with combat V), two Navy Achievement Medals, andthree Combat Action Ribbons.

Col. Gunther is married to the former Katherine Swederski of Menasha, Wisc.They have four children; Caroline (17), Laura (16), Christopher Jr. (14), and Michael (12).

13TH MARINE EXPEDITION13TH MARINE EXPEDITION13TH MARINE EXPEDITION13TH MARINE EXPEDITION13TH MARINE EXPEDITIONARARARARARY UNITY UNITY UNITY UNITY UNIT

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Commanding Officer

The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) was activated at Camp Pendleton,Calif., Feb. 1, 1985 as the 13th Marine Amphibious Unit. The unit was redesignated as the13th MEU Feb. 5, 1988. It is one of three West Coast MEUs which make periodic deploymentsto the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf regions. Since its activation, 13th MEUhas completed 11 Western Pacific deployments, participated in fiveamphibious training exercises, visited more than a dozen foreigncountries, and conducted combat operations in support ofOperations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and United Shield.

The “Fighting 13th MEU” has experienced a number of firsts.It was the first West Coast MEU to be designated as SpecialOperations Capable; having undergone extensive training inconducting a wide variety of special missions. It was the first MEU todeploy with Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC); the “Mastiff” remotelypiloted vehicle; an entire section of Avenger air defense weapons systems and the first torefuel ground vehicles with the Tactical Bulk Fuels Delivery System mounted in a CH-53E.Additionally, they were the first West Coast MEU to deploy with a force reconnaissanceplatoon.

The 13th MEU (SOC)’s special operations capabilities were used extensively on itsdeployment during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Beginning a routine deploy-ment June 20, 1990, the MEU was diverted to Southwest Asia in August 1990. The firstamphibious force to arrive in the theater of operations, 13th MEU conducted the first Marineoffensive actions against Iraq. In October 1990, elements of the 13th MEU (SOC) boarded twoIraqi tankers that refused to obey the United Nations sanctions.

The MEU conducted a number of operations during Desert Storm including a helicop-ter raid on Maradim Island, Kuwait, and amphibious operations the day the ground war

started. The MEU’s last combat operation inDesert Storm was an Iraqi prisoner of warroundup on Faylaka Island, Kuwait, March 3,1991, which resulted in 1,413 Iraqi prisoners. The13th MEU returned to the United States April 16,1991 after being deployed 301 consecutive days.

The 13th MEU (SOC) deployed againduring January 1992. During this deployment,the MEU conducted training operations in thePersian Gulf, Africa and Thailand. Additionally,the MEU was the last deploying unit to visit thePhilippines prior to the closure of Naval Station,Subic Bay.

In September 1993 the 13th MEU (SOC)deployed again and completed a routine exercisein Okinawa. The MEU arrived off the coast ofSomalia in early October in response toincreasing hostilities there. As a key element of

13th Marine Expeditionary Unit History

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the newly-formed COMMARFOR SOMALIA, the 13th MEU (SOC) and 22nd MEU (SOC),remained on station ready to provide support to United States and United Nations forces.

COMMARFOR SOMALIA was disestablished when the 22nd MEU (SOC) wasreassigned to the Mediterranean area of operations in mid-November. The 13th MEU (SOC)remained as the principle rapid response force in support of the joint task force. The MEUdeveloped and executed twohumanitarian assistance operations.The first, Operation Show Care tookplace in the cities of Marka andQoryooley from Nov. 11-14. From Dec.1-3, 1993, Operation More Care wasconducted in the Old Port ofMogadishu. Both operationsprovided needed medical and dentalassistance to Somali citizens.

The 13th MEU (SOC) continuedits presence mission through January,providing aircraft for the “Eyes OverMogadishu” missions as well as sniper support at the United States Embassy compound.Feb. 2, 1994, the 24th MEU (SOC) relieved the 13th MEU (SOC). By March 17, 1994, the 13thMEU had returned to the United States.

The 13th MEU (SOC) began its eighth Western Pacific deployment Oct. 25, 1994, onlyseven months after returning to Camp Pendleton. The MEU conducted its first scheduledexercise on Okinawa, Nov. 11-13.

They then sailed to the Persian Gulf and conducted three major exercises: Eager Macein Kuwait, Nautical Mantis in Saudi Arabia and Iron Magic in the United Arab Emirates. Eachof these exercises involved extensive bilateral training with the host nation. Additionallyduring this period, the MEU conducted a Maritime Interdiction Operation/Visit Board Search

and Seizure (MIO/VBSS)mission aboard the Honduranflagged Merchant VesselAjmer, which was in violationof United Nations sanctionswith Iraq.

During January 1995,the 13th MEU (SOC) wasordered to conduct OperationUnited Shield; the withdrawalof UNOSOM forces fromSomalia. The MEU sailed to

Africa and conducted operational rehearsals in Kenya. Feb. 3, 1995, the MEU was in positionoff the coast of Somalia and began conducting initial reconnaissance of the operational areaand liaison with UNOSOM forces. Early morning Feb. 28, the 13th MEU (SOC) conducted anamphibious assault onto Somali soil and began executing a relief-in-place with UNOSOMforces. By March 2, the withdrawal of all UNOSOM forces was complete, and during the firsthours of March 3, the final Marine forces departed Somali soil. The 13th MEU (SOC) returnedto Camp Pendleton April 24, 1995.

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The 13th MEU(SOC) departed on its ninth Western Pacific deployment on April 19,1996. While deployed on WESTPAC 96-2, the 13th MEU(SOC) participated in Cobra Gold ’96in Thailand and Infinite Moonlight ’96 in Jordan. During MEU EX in Kuwait, the 13thMEU(SOC) became the first MEU(SOC) to put the entire landing force ashore in Kuwaitwithout the use of a port or airfield. This was a vital step in the validation of the plan for thedefense of Kuwait, which had previously not been tested.

The 13th MEU(SOC) also provided a vital forward presence when, while on the way toconduct a transit of the Straits of Hormuz out of the Arabian Gulf Sept. 1, they were put onalert as part of Operation Desert Strike. The 13th MEU(SOC) never received a mission, buttheir presence in the Arabian Gulf gave higher headquarters additional options. Oct. 18, 1996,the 13th MEU(SOC) arrived off the coast of Camp Pendleton to end their deployment.

The 13th MEU(SOC) left on its tenth deployment Aug. 29, 1997. During WESTPAC 98-1, the 13th MEU(SOC) participated in Operation Southern Watch during November andDecember, helping enforce the no-fly zone over southern Iraq. The 13th MEU(SOC) alsoparticipated in Eager Mace 98-1 in Kuwait before returning home Feb. 28, 1998.

The 13th MEU(SOC) deployed for the 11th time on Dec. 5, 1998. During WESTPAC 99-1, 13th MEU conductedtraining in Hawaii, Singaporeand Kuwait (Eager Mace 99-1). In addition to providingreinforcements to the U.S.Embassy in Kenya, the MEUalso responded to the Eritrea-Ethiopia war where theMEU(SOC) stood by poisedto evacuate U.S. and otherdesignated noncombatants.The MEU accomplishedsome new firsts duringWESTPAC 99-1: qualifying anentire heliborne company withthe HEEDS bottle and thecomposite squadron, HMM-364(REIN), completing 35,000 Class-A mishap-free flight hours.The MEU returned to Camp Pendleton June 4, 1999.

In August 2000, the 13th MEU(SOC) began its 12th deployment. During WESTPAC00-2, the unit conducted training in Hawaii, Australia, Singapore, UAE and Kuwait, and libertyin Thailand and Jebel Ali. The transit to the Arabian Gulf was highlighted by a stop atTarawa, where 13th MEU(SOC) conducted a ceremony on the same soil Marines fought on inWorld War II. The unit also conducted a ceremony off the waters of Guadalcanal. From Sept.14-16, the 13th MEU SOC conducted a humanitarian assistance operation in East Timor,offloading more than 570 tons of material by aircraft and more than 430 tons via seaslift.

In October 2000, the world was shocked by the terrorist bombing of the USS Cole, aU.S. Navy guided missile destroyer, in the port of Aden, Yemen. 13th MEU was immediatelydispatched to provide security for the battered destroyer and its crew, and assist in OperationDetermined Response, the recovery of USS Cole. The 13th MEU(SOC) marked its transithome with stops in Seychelles, Thailand, Hong Kong and Iwo Jima. The unit returned toCamp Pendleton Feb. 13, 2001.

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BBBBBAAAAATTTTTTTTTTALION LANDING ALION LANDING ALION LANDING ALION LANDING ALION LANDING TEAM 1/4TEAM 1/4TEAM 1/4TEAM 1/4TEAM 1/4

Commanding Officer

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L ieutenant Colonel Robert O. Sinclairenlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve while in highschool, and attended MCRD San Diego in 1979. Aftergraduating from Western Washington University inJune 1983, he attended The Basic School & theInfantry Officer Course. Ordered to Hawaii, he servedwith the 1st Battalion, 3d Marines as a rifle platooncommander, battalion adjutant, and company executiveofficer. Transferred in July 1987 to San Diego, heserved as a series commander with the 3d RecruitTraining Battalion, MCRD San Diego, and as theOperations Officer for the San Diego MEPS.

In August 1991, Lieutenant Colonel Sinclairattended the Infantry Officer Advanced Course, Ft Benning, Georgia, where hegraduated with honors and was the recipient of the Leadership Award for his class.He then served as the Special Operations Officer for the 15th Marine ExpeditionaryUnit, where he participated in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia and OperationSouthern Watch in Southwest Asia. After deployment, he served as theCommanding Officer, Company E, BLT 2/5, where he participated in OperationsContinue Hope and Quickdraw in Somalia, and Operation Distant Runner in Rwanda/Burundi. He then served as the Operations Officer for 2d Battalion, 5th Marines,until being transferred to The Basic School in July 1995.

At TBS, Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair served as the Offense Section Head,and as the Director of the Infantry Officer Course. In August 1998, he wastransferred to the School Of Infantry (West) where he served as the SOI ExecutiveOfficer before assuming his duties as the G-3 Operations Officer, 1st MarineDivision, in July 1999.

Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair has attended several military schools, includingThe Basic School, Infantry Officer Course, Infantry Officer Advance Course,Airborne, Amphibious Warfare School (non-resident) and MCC&SC (non-resident).His personal awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (goldstar in lieu of second award), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy and MarineCorps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal andArmy Achievement Medal.

Lieutenant Colonel Sinclair is married to the former Jessica Mason, and theirfamily includes stepson Lucas Nelson (11 yrs) and son Seth (8 mos).

Battalion Landing Team 1/4 History

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Alhough originally activated in April 1911 as part of the 4th Marine Regiment, thebattalion considers August 1, 1922 as its official birthday. This was when it was firstaddressed as the 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, in the Dominican Republic. From September 1924to January 1927, the battalion was based in San Diego, Ca. During that periodelements of the battalion were assigned to guard the U.S. mail.

From February 1927 to November 1941, the battalion served inChina, where it was first addressed as “The China Marines,” andbegan using the Chinese dragon in different official and unofficiallogos and mastheads. During November 1941, the battalion, withthe entire 4th Marines, deployed from China to the Philippines.

World War II found the battalion stationed at Olangapo.Ordered to Corregidor, the battalion helped defend that strategicisland from December 1941 to May 1942. The battalion was awarded twoPresidential Unit Citations and the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, but wasalso forced to burn its colors and surrender.

On February 1, 1944, a new 1/4 was activated by the redesignation of the 1st RaiderBattalion. For the remainder of World War II, the battalion fought at two of the bloodiest

campaigns in the Pacific, Guam and Okinawa. The battalionwas awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for Guam andNavy Presidential Unit Commendation for Okinawa. Thebattalion was part of the occupation forces in Japan after thewar.

The battalion served in China in 1946. It spent theKorean War stationed in Japan. In 1955 it was transferred toHawaii and stayed there until May 1965.

In May 1965, 1/4 deployed to the Republic of Vietnam. During four years spent there,they fought in practically every Marine area of responsibility. As a result of its actions duringoperations such as Starlight and Hastings, the battalion shared with 2/4 and 3/4 in the awardof the ‘Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm’ for “outstanding bravery.”

From October 1969 to 1977, the battalion served on Okinawa and participated in therescue of SS Mayaguez and the Southeast Asia emergency evacuations. From 1977 to 1989,they were stationed at Twentynine Palms, then in January of 1989, they were transferred tothe 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton.

In August 1990 to April 16, 1991, the battalion participated in Operations Desert Shieldand Desert Storm.

As the GCE of the 15th MEU, the battalion conducted three real-world operations.Operation Restore Hope provided humanitarian relief to the people of Rwanda. After this thebattalion moved off the coast of Somalia where they were tasked with providing several on-call missions which included TRAP, NEO and airfield seizure. All these missions were insupport of the United States Liaison Office relocation from Mogadishu to Nairobi, Kenya.

The battalion became the ground combat element of 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit inJuly 2001.

Marine Medium HelicopterMarine Medium HelicopterMarine Medium HelicopterMarine Medium HelicopterMarine Medium HelicopterSquadron 165Squadron 165Squadron 165Squadron 165Squadron 165

Commanding Officer

15

L ieutenant Colonel Gregg A. Sturdevant was born in KansasCity, Mo., May 31, 1957. After graduating from high school in 1975,he enlisted in the Marine Corps and served until July 1979, honorablydischarged as a sergeant. After earning a BA in BusinessAdministration from Southeast Missouri State University in July1982, he was commissioned a second lieutenant. Upon completion ofThe Basic School, he reported to NAS Pensacola for flight trainingand was designated a naval aviator in April 1984.

Second Lieutenant Sturdevant reported to HMT-301 atMCAS Tustin for initial training in the CH-46E. In November 1984,1stLt. Sturdevant reported to HMM-364 in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. InJanuary 1986, he deployed with the squadron to Okinawa, Japan. In September 1987, he waspromoted to captain and attended the Weapons and Tactics Course at MCAS Yuma, Ariz. InJanuary 1988, he deployed to Okinawa, serving as the Weapons and Tactics Instructor.

In January 1989, Capt. Sturdevant reported to MATSG in Pensacola, where heserved as a flight instructor at VT-10 and served as a platoon commander for the Navy’sAviation Officer Candidate School. During this tour he earned a Masters Degree inManagement.

In January 1991, he was transferred to Fort Rucker, Ala., to attend the ArmyAviation Officer Advanced Course. Upon graduation, he was reassigned to 2nd Air and NavalGunfire Liaison Company (ANGLICO) at Camp LeJeune, N.C., where he earned hisparachutist’s wings and served as ANGLICO Det Commander for the 26th MarineExpeditionary Unit’s deployment in May 1992.

After CH-46E refresher training in January 1993, Capt. Sturdevant reported toHMM-162 where he served as the Tactics and Plans Project Officer. In January 1994, hetransferred to HMM-365 where he served as the Administrative Officer during a deploymentwith the 26th MEU. Major Sturdivant was the squadron Operations Officer from December1994 until June 1996.

Major Sturdevant attended Marine Corps Command and Staff College at Quantico,Va., in 1996 and earned a Master’s Degree in Military Studies. In June 1997, Major Sturdevantreported to Headquarters Marine Corps for duty in the Aviation Department’s Plans, Policies,Joint Doctrine and Budget Branch (APP). He was promoted to his present rank in July 1999.During this tour he completed the Air Force Air War College Course.

In June 2000, LtCol. Sturdevant reported to the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing, and wasfurther assigned to MAG-26 as a Special Projects Officer during CH-46E refresher training.

In January 2001, LtCol. Sturdevant transferred to 3d MAW, assigned to MAG-16.He was subsequently assigned to HMM-165 to assume the post of Executive Officer.

LtCol. Sturdevant’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal,the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with gold star, the Navy and MarineCorps Achievement Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He is married to the former TinaMarie Hunter and they have two children, Tyler and Emily.

16

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 History

M arine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 was activated in July 1965 atMarine Corps Air Station, Santa Ana, Ca., as part of Marine Aircraft Group 36, 3rdMarine Aircraft Wing. During August 1965, the White Knights were reassigned toMarine Wing Service Group 37.

In September 1966, the White Knights deployed to theRepublic of Vietnam, where they were assigned to MAG-36,1st MAW. From October 1966 to August 1969, the squadronoperated from Ky Ha, Hue/Phu Bai, the USS Valley Forge, theUSS Tripoli, Marble Mountain area near Da Nang, and fromUSS Tarawa. In August 1969, the squadron redeployed toOkinawa. In December 1969, the squadron became part ofMAG-36 again and it remained a part of the group until 1977.

During the early 1970s, HMM-165 participated as part of theSpecial Landing Force in support of activities in Vietnam; the squadron was alsopart of the 31st Marine Amphibious Unit operating with the Seventh Fleet. DuringJuly and August 1972, the White Knights took part in Philippine flood reliefoperations, flying in food and supplies to local populations. In April 1975, helicop-ters of HMM-165 took part in the evacuation of Saigon, Operation Frequent Wind.Lady Ace 09 evacuated the ambassador on April 30, 1977. In November 1977, theWhite Knights and moved to Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii wherethey were reassigned to MAG-24, the air combat element of the 1st Marine Brigade.

During September and October 1983, as part of the 31st MAU, HMM-165deployed to the western Pacific and Indian Oceans. HMM-165 was diverted toBeirut, Lebanon, where they conducted contingency operations from the deck ofthe USS Tarawa. In December 1989, the White Knights supported Americaninterests, including reinforcement of the American Embassy in the Republic of thePhilippines during that country’s coupe attempt.

In August 1990, the squadron was sent to Saudi Arabia to participate inOperation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The White Knights returned home fromin March 1991. HMM-165 was the “last squadron in the Philippine Islands” whenthey supported the special purpose MAGTF from July to November 1992. FromSeptember to October 1992 a detachment was sent to Cambodia to participate inJoint Task Force Full Accounting. The squadron aided the task force in the searchfor remains of MIAs from the war in Vietnam. In March 1993, another detachmentwas sent to Cambodia; this mission was cut short when the task force base campwas attacked by mortar fire in April 1993.

As a result of base closings, HMM-165 was reassigned from the 1st MAWAviation Support Element, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii toMAG-16, 3rd MAW, MCAS El Toro, Ca., on May 15, 1996.

While assigned to MAG-16, HMM-165 has participated in two CombinedArms Exercises; Desert Punch, the largest helicopter operation since the Vietnamwar; and numerous squadron deployments. HMM-165 moved to MCAS Miramar,San Diego, CA in November 1998 as the result of more base closings. In December1998, HMM-165 was designated the ACE for the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

L ieutenant Colonel Rodman D. Sansone was born inColumbus, Ohio. Upon graduation from the United States NavalAcademy in May 1982, he was commissioned a second lieuten-ant. After completion of both The Basic School and the CombatEngineer Basic Course, he reported for duty to 8th EngineerSupport Battalion as a Platoon Commander and CompanyExecutive Officer. In 1985, Lieutenant Colonel Sansone reportedfor duty to Recruiting Station, Macon, Georgia, where he servedthe next three years as the Operations Officer. After recruitingduty, he attended the Army’s Engineer Officer’s AdvanceCourse at Fort Belvoir, Va. After graduation, Lieutenant ColonelSansone remained on the Staff for the next 12 months as a Mine Warfare instructor.

Assigned to the 3rd Marine Division in January 1990, Lieutenant Colonel Sansoneserved as the Company Commander for Bravo Company, 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion.During this period, he participated in both Operations Desert Shield and Desert Stormas the Regimental Engineer for 4th Marine Regiment. After the Gulf War, he servedbriefly as the S-3A for the Battalion and participated in Operation Fiery Vigil in thePhilippines. He concluded his tour on Okinawa as Company Commander, EngineerSupport Company.

Upon his return to the United States in 1992, Lieutenant Colonel Sansone reportedfor duty at the 1st Marine Corps District in Garden City, New York where he assumedduties as the Contact Team Officer. He subsequently was assigned as the Assistant forEnlisted Recruiting and briefly served as an interim Commanding Officer for RecruitingStation Buffalo. After recruiting duty, Lieutenant Colonel Sansone attended the Collegeof Naval Command and Staff in July 1995.

After graduation in June 1996, he was transferred to the 1st Force Service SupportGroup and assigned as the G-3 Area Specialist for Oplan 5027. In November 1997, hewas re-assigned as the Executive Officer for 7th Engineer Support Battalion. In July1999, Lieutenant Colonel Sansone transferred to I MEF and assumed duties as the IMEF Engineer Officer. During this assignment, Lieutenant Colonel Sansone also servedon the Coalition Joint Task Force, Kuwait (Fwd) Staff as the Chief of Staff from February2000 to June 2000.

Lieutenant Colonel Sansone assumed his present duties as the CommandingOfficer, MEU Service Support Group 13 on March 16, 2001. Lieutenant ColonelSansone’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with 2 gold starsin lieu of third award, Navy andMarine Corps Commendation Medal with gold star inlieu of second award, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal,Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal andthe Combat Action Ribbon.

Lieutenant Colonel Sansone is married to the former Margaretina DeCicco ofChatham, New Jersey. They have two sons, Patrick and Nicholis.

MEU SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 13MEU SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 13MEU SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 13MEU SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 13MEU SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 13

Commanding Officer

17

MEU Service Support Group 13 is task organized, equipped and assigned bythe Commanding General, 1st Force Service Support Group, from the assets of theeight battalions organic to the FSSG. Its mission is to provide combat servicesupport, specifically: supply, maintenance, transportation, deliberate engineer andhealth services to the forward deployed 13th MEU.

The Group was formally activated at Camp Pendleton, Calif.,Feb. 1, 1985, but its history and lineage can be traced, indirectly,through a composite of the subordinate battalions of 1st FSSGfrom World War II through Korea and Vietnam. The predeces-sors of MSSG, Marines and Sailors from 1st Landing SupportBattalion, 1st Supply Battalion, 1st Maintenance Battalion, 7thMotor Transportation Battalion, 1st Dental Battalion, 1st MedicalBattalion and Headquarters and Service Battalion fought withdistinction through Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, Inchon, Chosin Reservoir and Vietnam.

Although the designation of the Combat Service Support Element of theMarine Air-Ground Task Force has changed many times, from Combat ServiceGroup, Force Service Regiment, ForceLogistics Command and Force ServiceSupport Group, each Marine and Sailorstill contributes his own specialized skillto ensure that combat arms personnel andequipment are prepared for combat andcontingency operations.

With less than 300 Marines andSailors, MSSG-13 stands ready to supportthe 13th MEU across the spectrum ofcombat service support requirements.Capabilities include replenishment of allclasses of supply, vehicular transporta-tion, and landing support for both amphibious craft and helicopters. Servicessupported through the MSSG include military police, disbursing and informationsystems management.

Engineer capabilities include explosive ordnance disposal, road improvement,water production and distribution, and bulk fuel storage and distribution.

Medical and dental support is resident in the MSSG for health maintenance,battlefield casualty treatment and evacuation.

During an amphibious landing, while the Marines of MSSG-13 are performinga myriad of tasks both ashore and afloat, they are always prepared to depart fromtheir specialized mission and assume the role of Marine riflemen should the needarise.

While afloat, the Marines and Sailors of MSSG-13 are spread-loaded acrossships of the Amphibious Readiness Group, proudly serving as an integral part ofthe Navy/Marine Corps team.

18

MEU Service Support Group 13 History

Personnel, Weapons and Equipmentof the

13th Marine Expeditionary Unit

19

· Personnel— 2,000 Marines— 100 Sailors

· Ground Forces Equipment— 12 Light Armored Vehicles (LAV)— 8 81mm Mortars— 8 Tube-launched, Optically sighted, Wire-guided, anti-armor missile launchers (TOW)— 8 Javelins— 15 Assault Amphibian Vehicles (AAV)— 6 155mm Howitzers— 4 M1A1 Main Battle Tanks

· Aircraft— 12 CH-46E Medium Lift Assault Helicopters— 4 CH53E Heavy Lift Assault Transport Helicopters— 3 UH-1N Utility Helicopters— 4 AH-1W Attack Helicopter— 2 KC-130 Refueler/transport Aircraft— 6 AV-8B Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL) Attack Aircraft

WeaponsWeaponsWeaponsWeaponsWeaponsandandandandand

EquipmentEquipmentEquipmentEquipmentEquipment

20

M-9 Pistol

M16A2 5.56mm RifleSPECIFICATIONS

Max EffectiveRange:

Length:

Weight:

MagazineCapacity:

MuzzleVelocity:

The M16A2 5.56mmrifle is a lightweight, air-cooled, gas-operated,magazine-fed, shoulder- orhip-fired weapon made byColt Manufacturing andFabrique NationaleManufacturing Inc. Itreplaces the M16A1 rifle.

The weapon isdesigned for eitherautomatic fire (3-round

The M9 is a light-weight, semiautomaticpistol manufactured byBeretta and designed toreplace the M1911A1 .45caliber pistol and .38caliber revolvers.

The M9 has severalsafety features. It can befired in either double orsingle action mode andcan be unloaded withoutactivating the trigger whilethe safety is in the “on”position.

The M9 pistol has a15-round magazine, andmay be fired without amagazine inserted. This

weapon can have thehammer lowered from thecocked, “ready to fire,”position to the uncockedposition without activatingthe trigger by placing thethumb safety on the “on”position.

Max EffectiveRange:

Length:

Weight:

Magazinecapacity:

MuzzleVelocity:

bursts) or semiautomaticfire (single shot) throughthe use of a selector lever.

The bottom of thetrigger guard opens toprovide access to thetrigger while wearingwinter gloves.

The upper receiver/barrel assembly has a fullyadjustable rear sight and acompensator which helpskeep the muzzle stableduring firing.

The steel bolt groupand barrel extension aredesigned with locking lugswhich lock the bolt groupto the barrel extensionallowing the rifle to have alightweight aluminumreceiver.

50 meters

5.51 inches

2.55 pounds

15 rounds

365 meters/sec.

SPECIFICATIONS

800 meters

39.63 inches

8.79 pounds

30 rounds

853 meters/sec.

21

The M203 40mmGrenade Launcher is usedwhile attached to anM16A2 5.56mm rifle. It is alightweight, compact,breech loading, pumpaction, single shotlauncher.

The launcher

M203 40mm Grenade Launcher

SPECIFICATIONS

consists of ahand guardand sightassembly withan adjustablemetallicfolding, short-range bladesight assem-bly, and an

aluminum receiver assem-bly which houses thebarrel latch, barrel stopand firing mechanism.

It is capable of firinga variety of low velocity40mm ammunition.

The M203 also has aquadrant sight which may

Max EffectiveRange:

Minimum SafeRange:

Length:

Weight:

MagazineCapacity:

be attached to the M16A2carrying handle and isused when precision isrequired out to themaximum effective rangeof the weapon.

M-249 Squad Automatic WeaponThe Squad Auto-

matic Weapon (SAW), or5.56mm M249 is anindividually portable, gasoperated, magazine ordisintegrating metallic link-belt fed, light machine gunwith quick change barrelfeature.

The SAW forms thebasis of firepower for thefire team. The gunner hasthe option of using 30-round M16 magazines orlinked ammunition frompre-loaded 200-roundplastic magazines.

The gunner’s basicload is 600 rounds oflinked ammunition.

The SAW wasdeveloped through an

Max effectiverange:

Length:

Weight:

AmmunitionCapacity:

SPECIFICATIONS

1,148.35 feet

101.71 feet

39.63 inches

11.79 pounds

NotApplicable

initially Army-led researchand development effort torestore sustained andaccurate automaticweapons fire to the fireteam and squad.

They were issued asa one-for-one replacementfor the designated“automatic rifle” (M16A1)in the Fire Team.

3281 feet

40.87 inches

15.16 pounds

30 or 200round maga-zine

22

SMAWThe Shoulder-

Launched, MultipurposeAssault Weapon is an83mm man-portableweapon system consistingof a launcher, a HighExplosive, Dual Purposerocket,a High ExplosiveAnti-Armor rocket and aspotting rifle cartridge.

The MK153 Mod 0launcher is based on theIsraeli B-300 and consistsof a fiberglass launch tube,a 9mm spotting rifle, anelectro-mechanical firingmechanism and open battlesights.

The 9mm spottingrounds are ballisticallymatched to the rockets andincrease the gunner’s firstround hit probability.

The HEDP rocket iseffective against bunkers,concrete walls and lightarmor. The HEAA rocket isused against current tanks.

The rockets areloaded at the rear of thelauncher.

LengthCarried:firing:

WeightCarried:Firing:

Max EffectiveRange:

SPECIFICATIONS

The MK19 40mmmachine gun, MOD 3, is anair-cooled, disintegratingmetallic link-belt fed,blowback operated, fullyautomatic weapon and iscrew transportable with

MK-19 Grenade Launcher

SPECIFICATIONSLength:

Weight:

MuzzleVelocity:

Max. EffectiveRange:

limited amounts ofammunition.

It can fire a variety of40mm grenades. The M430HEDP 40mm grenade willpierce armor up to 2 inchesthick, and will produce

29.9 inches54 inches

16.6 pounds30.5 pounds

500 meters

fragments to kill personnelwithin 5 meters and woundpersonnel within 15 metersof the point of impact.

The MK19 alsomounts in the up-gunnedweapons station of theassault amphibian vehicleand vehicle ring mounts.

43.1 inches

137.5 pounds

790 feet/sec.

1600 meters

23

The Browning M2 .50Caliber Machine Gun,Heavy barrel, is a recoiloperated, automatic, air-cooled machine gun withadjustable headspace andis crew transportable withlimited amounts ofammunition over short

distances.By repositioning

some of the componentparts, ammunition may befed from either the left orright side. A disintegratingmetallic link-belt is used tofeed the ammunition.

It may be mountedon ground mounts and

M-2 .50 Caliber Machine Gunmost vehicles as an anti-personnel and anti-aircraftweapon.

The gun is equippedwith leaf-type rear sight,flash suppressor and aspare barrel assembly.

Associated compo-nents are the M63 antiair-craft mount and the M3tripod mount.

SPECIFICATIONSMax EffectiveRange: 2000 meters

Length: 61.42 inches

Weight ofGun: 84 poundsTripod: 44 pounds

Max. Rateof Fire: 550 rounds/

minute

M-240G Medium MachinegunThe M240G Medium

Machine Gun is theground version of theoriginal M240/M240E1,7.62mm medium classweapon designed as acoaxial/pintle mountedmachine gun for tanks andlight armored vehicles.

The M240G ismodified for ground useby the installation of an“infantry modification kit,”comprised of a flashsuppressor, front sight,carrying handle for thebarrel, a buttstock,infantry length pistol grip,bipod and rear sightassembly.

While possessingmany of the same basiccharacteristics as the M60series medium classmachine guns, thedurability of the M240system results in superiorreliability and maintain-ability when compared tothe M60

Length: 47.5 inches

Weight: 24.2 pounds

Max EffectiveRange: 1.1 miles

Max Rateof Fire: 650-950 rounds/min

SPECIFICATIONS

24

The Stinger is a man-portable, shoulder-firedguided missile systemwhich enables the Marineto effectively engage low-altitude jet, propeller-driven and helicopteraircraft.

Developed by theUnited States ArmyMissile Command, theStinger was the successor

STINGER Missile Systemto the Redeye WeaponSystem. The system is a“fire-and-forget” weaponemploying a passiveinfrared seeker and propor-tional navigation system.

Stinger also isdesigned with an all-aspectengagement capability andIFF (Identification-Friend-or-Foe), improved rangeand maneuverability, and

significantcountermea-suresimmunity.

Themissile,packagedwithin itsdisposablelaunch tube,

SPECIFICATIONS

Length: 5 feet

Width: 5.5 in.

Weight FullyArmed: 34.5 lbs.

Range: 1-8 km

Crew: 2

Rate of Fire: every 3-7 sec.

is delivered as a certifiedround, requiring no fieldtesting or direct supportmaintenance. A separable,reusable gripstock isattached to the round priorto use and may be usedagain.

SPECIFICATIONS

EffectiveRange:

Time ofFlight:

Length:

Weight:

Diameter:

65-1000 m

11.2 Sec to100 m

50.40 inches

30.9 pounds

5.87 inches

The Javelin is a man-portable, shoulder-fired,fire and forget weapon.

It implements animaging infrared guidancesystem for pinpointaccuracy in all weather andlight conditions. The

Javelin Missile System

25

extended range, up to3,000 meters, enablesinfantry units to strikefrom farther away, lessen-ing the chance of beingattacked.

The Javelin, fires afour-foot missile andnearly triples the range ofthe Dragon. The Javelin

also has aminimal

heat signature, making itdifficult to locate its firingposition. The javelin canbe fired from enclosedareas and reloaded quickly.

Once locked onto atarget, the missile is firedfrom a disposable launchtube. The combinedweight of the tube andguidance system is lessthan 50 pounds.

The basic TubeLaunched, OpticallyTracked, Wire GuidedMissile System was fieldedin 1970. This system isdesigned to attack anddefeat tanks and otherarmored vehicles. It is

TOW Missile Systemprimarily used in antitankwarfare, and is a commandto line of sight, wire-guided weapon.

The system willoperate in all weatherconditions and on the“dirty” battlefield. TheTOW 2 launcher is themost recent launcherupgrade. It is compatible

SPECIFICATIONSMax. EffectiveRange:

Time of Flightto MER:

Length:

Weight:

Diameter:

with all TOW missiles. TheTOW 2 Weapon System iscomposed of a reusablelauncher, a missile guid-ance set, and sight system.The system can be tripodmounted. Howeverbecause it is heavy, it isgenerally employed from aHMMWV or LAV-AT.

2.33 miles

20 seconds

50.40 inches

204.6 pounds

5.87 inches

26

M224 60mm MortarThe M224 60mm

Lightweight Mortar is asmooth bore, muzzleloading, high-angle-of-fireweapon.

The cannon assem-bly is composed of thebarrel, combination basecap, and firing mechanism.

It has a spring-type shockabsorber to absorb therecoil.

The mountconsists of abipod and a baseplate which isprovided withelevating andtraversingmechanisms toelevate/traversethe mortar. TheM64 sight unit isattached to thebipod mount viaa standarddovetail.

An addi-tional short rangesight attaches tothe base of the

SPECIFICATIONS


Length:

Weight:

Max Rateof Fire:

2.17 miles

40 inches

46.5 pounds

30 rounds/minute

tube for firing the mortaron the move and duringassaults.

M198 155mm HowitzerThe M198 Medium

Towed Howitzer is a155mm field artilleryhowitzer. It is con-structed of aluminum andsteel, and is air trans-portable by CH-53E

helicopter, and C-130 orlarger fixed-wing aircraft.

The M198 providesincreased range, andimproved reliability andmaintainability over theformer standard towed


Length:

Weight:

SPECIFICATIONS

13.92 miles

36 feet

15,758 pounds

The M252 81mmMedium Extended RangeMortar is a crew-served,medium weight mortarwhich is highly accurateand provides for a greater

tapered lead-in which actsas a blast attenuatordevice. The breech end isfinned for better cooling.

This mortar also usesthe standard M64 mortarsight of the 60mm mortar,M224.

range (4,500 meters to5,650 meters) and lethalitythan the previous 81mmmortar.

This mortar replacedthe previous Marine Corps

81mm mortar in 1986.The M252 is anadaptation of thestandard British 81mmmortar developed inthe 1970s. It is mostlycommonly found in themortar platoon of aninfantry battalion.

The cannon has acrew-removable breechplug and firing pin. Themuzzle end has a short

SPECIFICATIONS

M252 81mm Mortar

Length: 56 inches

Total Weight: 89 pounds

Max. EffectiveRange: 5700 meters

Max. Rateof Fire: 33 rounds/

minute

27

155mm howitzer, theM114A2.

The use of rocket-assisted projectilessignificantly extends therange, lethality, andcounter-battery fires ofthe direct supportartillery battalions.

The M198 fires allcurrent and developmen-tal 155mm ammunitionand can fire from direct orindirect positions.

The M1A1 is animproved version of the M1Main Battle Tank (MBT).This tank significantlyincreases the capabilities ofFleet Marine Forces acrossthe full spectrum of conflict inthe near and midterm.

Engagement ranges

approaching 4,000 meterswere successfully demon-strated during OperationDesert Storm.The M1A1Tank, in addition to theimproved armor, 120mmsmoothbore gun and theNBC overpressure system,has a Deep Water Fording Kit(DWFK), a Position LocationReporting Systems (PLRS),

enhanced ship tiedowns,Digital Electronic Control Unit(DECU) (which allowssignificant fuel savings) andBattlefield Override.

The M1A1 MBT canalso conduct operationsashore. It is compatible withall U.S. Navy amphibiousships and craft and MaritimePrepositioning Ships.

M1A1 Main Battle Tank


Width:

Height:

Weight:

Caliber:

Max Speed:

385 inches

144 inches

114 inches

67.7 tons

120mm

42 mph

28

Light Armored VehicleThe LAV-25 is an all-

terrain, all-weather vehiclewith night capabilities. It isair transportable via C-130,C-141, C-5 and CH-53E.

Its primary functionis to reach and engage thethreat for effective use offirepower to defeat softand armored targets on thebattlefield.

When combatloaded, there are 210 readyrounds and 420 stowedrounds of 25 mm ammuni-tion as well as 400 readyrounds and 1,200 stowedrounds of 7.62mm. Thereare 8 ready rounds and 8stowed rounds of smokegrenades. A M240G7.62mm machine gun can

be mounted at thecommander’s station in theturret.

The LAV-25 is fullyamphibious with amaximum of three minutespreparation.

SPECIFICATIONS

Length:

Weight:

Speed:

Crew:

251.6 inches

24,100 pounds

62 mph

7


Width:

Height:

Weight:

Engine:

Max Speed:

180 inches

66 inches

53 inches

5440 lbs

Diesel

80 mph


Width:

Height:

Weight:

Engine:

Max Speed:

185 inches

75 inches

30 inches

265 lbs

35 hp

42 mph

Combat RubberReconnaissance Craft

The Combat RubberReconnaissance Craft wasfielded to fill the MarineCorps’ requirement for asmall, lightweight,inflatable, rugged boat foruse in performing various

raid, reconnaissance andriverine missions. It willreplace all other small

rubber inflatable boats inthe Marine Corps inven-tory.

Interim Fast Attack VehicleThe Marine Corps’

Interim Fast Attack Vehicleis a DaimlerChrysler modelof the Mercedes Benz MB290 GD 1.5 ton truck off-road vehicle built as asmall all-terrain vehicle forthe German Bundeswehr.

First deployed as aU.S. Marine unit inNovember 1999, the IFAVreplaced the M-151 FastAttack Vehicle, whichpreviously served as asmaller attack version ofthe Humvee. The primary

advantage of the IFAV isits ability to be transportedinternally by the MarineCorps’ workhorse aircraft,the CH-46 Sea Knight, CH-53 Super Stallion, and inthe future, the V-22Osprey.

29

The 5-ton truckprovides the primarytactical, medium transportfor the Marine Corps andis used by all elements ofthe Marine Air GroundTask Force for combatsupport and combatservice support.

Marine Corps 5-tontrucks provide transporta-tion, hauling and towing ofjust abouteverything in theequipmentinventory. Theyare used totransport troops,supplies,ammunition,materials, etc.Additionally,

5-Ton TruckSPECIFICATIONS

Length:

Payload:

Weight:

Max. Speed:

Crew:

these trucks tow manytypes of trailers, artillerypieces and vans.

Almost all MarineCorps units are equippedwith 5-ton trucks.

The 5-ton is availablein cargo, dump, tractor andwrecker configurations.

25.6 feet

21,600pounds

10,000pounds

62 mph

2

.

AAV7A1 Assault Amphibian VehicleThe Marine Corps

AAV7A1 family of vehiclescarrries the surface assaultinfantry elements of thelanding force and theirequipment from amphibi-ous ships to inlandobjectives. Once ashore,the AAV7A1 family ofvehicles supports maneu-ver warfare and performs

combat support andcombat service supportmissions as appropriate.

There are threeAAV7A1 variants:

AAVP7A1 -- This isthe baseline version usedfor armored-protectedmobility to the GroundCombat Element.

AAVC7A1 -- Thisvehicle is used as a mobilecommand post for infantrybattalion commandersduring and operationsashore.

AAVR7A1 -- Thisversion provides recoveryand field maintenancesupport for the AAV familyduring operations ashore.

SPECIFICATIONSWeight:

Load Capacity:

Max. SpeedLand:Water:

46,314 pounds

21 troops

45 mph8.2 mph

30

The M998 is thebaseline vehicle for theM998 series of 1 1/4-tontrucks, which are known asHigh Mobility Multipur-pose Wheeled Vehicles.

The HMMWVsinclude 11 variants. Theyare: Cargo/Troop Carrier;Cargo/Troop Carrier, withwinch; Armament Carrier;Armament Carrier, withwinch; TOW Carrier; TOWCarrier, with winch;Ambulance, basic armor 4-Litter; Ambulance, 2-Litter;Shelter Carrier; ShelterCarrier, with winch; Heavy

HMMWV (payload of4,400 pounds).

The HMMWVs highpower-to-weight ratio,four-wheeled drive andhigh ground clearancecombine to give itoutstanding cross-country mobility.

M998 HMMWVSPECIFICATIONS

Length:

Width:

Height:

Weight:

15 feet

7.08 feet

6 feet

5,200 pounds

31

The Marine Corpsfielded the heavy tacticalvehicle system during themid 1980s.

The Logistical VehicleSystem (LVS) is a modularsystemconsisting of aMK48 frontpower unit andfour inter-changeable rearbody units(RBU).

The frontpower unit andrear body unitsare joined by ahydraulicallypoweredarticulatedjoint.

The completed unitsare 8x8 systems with twofront steering axles.

The LVS has an off-road payload of 12.5 tonsand an on-road payload of

22.5 tons.


Height:

Width:

Max.Speed:

MK48 Logistical Vehicle System

19.88 feet

8.5 feet

8 feet

62 mph

The AV-8B V/STOLstrike aircraft was de-signed to replace the AV-8A and the A-4M lightattack aircraft.

The Marine Corpsrequirement for a V/STOLlight attack force has beenwell documented since thelate 1950s. Combining

tactical mobility, respon-siveness, reducedoperating cost and basingflexibility, both afloat andashore, V/STOL aircraftare particularly well-suitedto the special combat andexpeditionary require-ments of the MarineCorps.

The AV-8BII+features the APG-65 Radarcommon to the F/A-18, aswell as all previoussystems and featurescommon to the AV-8BII.

SPECIFICATIONS

Length:

Wing span:

Armament:

Crew:

AV-8B Harrier

46 feet

30.3 feet

1

- AIM-9Sidewinder- an assort-ment of air-to-groundweapons- AGM-65 Mav-erick missiles- GAU-12 25mmsix-barrel gunpod

32

The KC-130 is amulti-role, multi-missiontactical tanker/transportwhich provides thesupport required byMarine Air Ground TaskForces. It provides in-flight refueling to bothtactical aircraft andhelicopters as well as rapidground refueling whenrequired.

Additional tasksperformed are aerialdelivery of troops andcargo, emergency resup-ply, emergency medevacand evacuation missions.

The KC-130 is

KC-130 Hercules

equipped with a removable3600 gallon stainless steelrefueling tank.

Each refueling podcan transfer up to 300gallons per minute to twoaircraft simultaneously.

Some KC-130s arealso equipped withdefensive electronic and

SPECIFICATIONSLength:Height:Wing span:Range:

Speed:Crew:

97.75 feet38.3 feet 132.6 feet1000 nm w/45,000lbs fuel315 knots6

infrared countermeasuressystems.

The UH-1N is a twin-piloted, twin-enginehelicopter.

It provides utilitycombat helicopter supportto the landing forcecommander during ship-to-shore movement and insubsequent operationsashore.

The aircraft can beoutfitted to supportoperations such ascommand and control witha specialized communica-tion package (ASC-26),supporting arms coordina-tion, assault support,medical evacuation for upto six litter patients and

one medical attendant,It can also support

external cargo, search andrescue using a rescuehoist, reconnaissance andreconnaissance support,and special operationsusing a new navigationalthermal imaging systemmission kit.

SPECIFICATIONS

UH-1N Huey

Length:

Height:

RotorDiameter:

Speed:

Crew Officer: Enlisted:

The AH-1W SuperCobra is a day/nightmarginal weather MarineCorps attack helicopterthat provides enrouteescort for our assaulthelicopters and theirembarked forces.

The Super Cobrahelicopter is a two-place,tandem-seat, twin-enginehelicopter capable of land-or sea-based operations.

It provides firesupport and FS coordina-tion to the landing forceduring amphibiousassaults and subsequentoperations ashore.

The AH-1W isoperated in eight compos-ite Marine Light AttackHelicopter (HMLA)squadrons composed 36helicopters: 18 AH-1 and 9UH-1.

It is currently beingoutfitted with a NightTargeting System withForwardLookingInfrared Radarto providelaser range-finding/designatingand cameracapabilities.

SPECIFICATIONS

AH-1W Super Cobra

Length:

Height:

RotorDiameter:

Speed:

Crew:

58 feet

13.7 feet

48 feet

147 knots

2

57.3 feet

14.9 feet

48 feet

121 knots

22

33

The primary missionof the CH-46E Sea Knighthelicopter in a MarineMedium Helicoptersquadron is to provide all-weather, day/night, nightvision goggle transport of

assault troops.The movement of

supplies and equipment isa secondary mission.

Additional tasksinclude: combat andassault support for

evacua-tionopera-tions andothermaritimespecialopera-tions;over-watersearch

and rescue augmentation;support for mobile forwardrefueling and rearmingpoints; aeromedicalevacuation of casualtiesfrom the field to suitablemedical facilities.

SPECIFICATIONS

CH-46 Sea Knight

Length:

Height:

Speed:

Crew:

Personel:

Cargo:

CH-53E Super StallionSPECIFICATIONS As the Marine

Corps’ heavy lift helicop-ter designed for thetransportation of materialand supplies, the CH-53Eis compatible with mostamphibious class shipsand is carried routinelyaboard LHA , LPH andnow LHD type ships.

The helicopter iscapable of lifting 16 tons atsea level, transporting theload 50 nautical miles andreturning. A typical loadwould be a 16,000 poundM198 howitzer or a 26,000pound Light ArmoredVehicle.

The aircraft also canretrieve downed aircraftsuch as another CH-53E.

It can carry externalloads at increased air-speeds due to the stabilityachieved with the dualpoint system.

The 53E is equippedwith a refueling probe andcan be refueled in flightgiving the helicopterindefinite range.

Length:

Height:

RotorDiameter:

Speed:

Crew:

84 feet

17 feet

145 knots

5

14

4,000 pounds

99 feet

28 feet

79 feet

150 knots

3

34

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Commodore

A native of Montclair, New Jersey, Captain Connellygraduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and was commis-sioned an ensign in June 1976. In November 1977, he wasdesignated a Naval Aviator. After completing his initial P-3COrion training at Patrol Squadron 31, he was assigned toPatrol Squadron 48 from June 1978 to June 1981, participatingin three Western Pacific deployments and detachments insupport of fleet operations.

Assigned to the Office of the Chief of Naval Opera-tions (OPNAV) from 1981 to 1984, Captain Connelly served in the Systems AnalysisDivision and as Staff Assistant to the Director, Naval Warfare. During this tour hereceived a masters degree in Government with a certificate in National SecurityStudies from Georgetown University.

He reported to USS Midway (CV-41) in September 1984 and served asAssistant Navigator and General Quarters Officer of the Deck and was designated asCommand Duty Officer (Underway). Captain Connelly next served as AssistantMaintenance Officer and Administrative Officer while assigned to Patrol Squadron31 from May 1986 to October 1987.

In December 1987, Captain Connelly reported to Patrol Squadron 8 where hecompleted deployments to Rota, Spain and Keflavik, Iceland while serving as SafetyOfficer, Training Officer and Operations Officer.

Assigned to OPNAV from January 1990 to August 1991, he served asAssistant Branch Head of the Western Hemisphere Plans and Policy Branch withinthe Politico-Military Policy and Current Plans Division. Additionally, he was as-signed as the Assistant Branch Head of the East Asia/Pacific Branch and LeadAction Officer for the Philippine Base Re-negotiations. He concluded his tour byserving as Aide and Administrative Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Naval Opera-tions (Plans, Policy and Operations) during Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

Captain Connelly completed a one-year assignment as a National SecurityFellow at the Hoover Institution on War, Revolution and Peace, Stanford University.In September 1992, he reported to Patrol Squadron 47 as Executive Officer andassumed command one year later.

Following command, Captain Connelly was assigned to the CINCPACFLTstaff as the VP/VPU Operations Officer. He next completed a tour from August 1996to April 1998 in USS Inchon (MCS 12) as Executive Officer. He next completed toursas Executive Officer in USS Essex (LHD 2) and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6).

Captain Connelly assumed duties as Commanding Officer in USSBonhomme Richard in April 2000.

Captain Connelly’s personal awards and decorations include the Meritori-ous Service Medal (with three gold stars), the Navy Commendation Medal (with fourgold stars), the Navy Achievement Medal and other campaign and service awards.

AMPHIBIOUS SQAMPHIBIOUS SQAMPHIBIOUS SQAMPHIBIOUS SQAMPHIBIOUS SQUUUUUADRADRADRADRADRON 3ON 3ON 3ON 3ON 3

USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) is the third U.S. Navy ship to bear this name,

and is the sixth WASP Class multi-purpose amphibious assault ship built.The first Bonhomme Richard was a late 1700s three-masted sailing frigate. It was

152 feet long, had a 40-foot beam, andberthed 375. It displaced 998 tons andwas propelled by three main sails, threemid sails, three top sails and two jibes at aspeed dictated by the wind. It had 28 12-pound cannons, six 18-pound cannonsand nine nine-pound cannons.

The second was a mid-1940s aircraftcarrier. It was 890 feet long, had a 180-foot beam and berthed 3,490. It displaced43,000 tons and produced 150,000horsepower from eight boilers thatpowered four shafts, which propelled four screws, and moved through the water atspeeds faster than 30 knots. CV/CVA 31 had 12 five-inch .38 caliber guns, four of whichwere solo mounts and four twin mounts, and 17 quad-40mm anti-aircraft guns.

Today’s “Revolutionary Gator” is astate-of-the-art floating wonder. It is 844feet long, with a 106-foot beam, and berths3,200. It displaces 40,500 tons, andproduces 70,000 horsepower from twoboilers that drive two geared turbines,which power two shafts and turn twoscrews to propel Bonhomme Richardthrough the water faster than 20 knots. Itsonboard weaponry include two eight-cellSea Sparrow missile launchers, two 21-cellrolling airframe missile (RAM) launchers,two Phalanx close-in weapons systems(CWIS), four .50 cal gun mounts, andthree 25mm gun mounts.

The primary mission of LHD 6 is toembark, deploy and land elements of aMarine Landing Force in amphibiousassault operations by either helicopter,landing craft, amphibious vehicle or anycombination of these methods.

USS Bonhomme RichardUSS Bonhomme RichardUSS Bonhomme RichardUSS Bonhomme RichardUSS Bonhomme Richard

Length:

Width:

Displacment:

Power:

Speed:

Crew: Sailors: Marines:

Builders:

844 feet

106 feet

40,500 tons (fullload)

70,000 totalhorsepower

20+ knots

9491,900

Ingalls Ship-building,Pascagoula,

STATISTICS

LHD-6

36

USS OgdenUSS OgdenUSS OgdenUSS OgdenUSS Ogden

USS Ogden is an amphibious transport dock ship (LPD), which is one of themost versatile classes of ships in the Navy. The LPD combines the functions ofthree different classes of ships; the landing ship (LSD), the tank landing ship (LST),and the attack cargo ship (LKA).

The ship is named after thecity of Ogden, Utah. The principleelements of the seal and the city ofOgden are a beehive mounted on astand, and a number of bees flyingabout the hive which is flanked bytwo flowers. A cirle enclosesthese elements on which “City ofOgden” is inscribed. The ship’sinsignia utilizes these elements in asymbolic way to depict Ogden’smission.

Ogden is unique in having ahelicopter platform built over a welldeck in the rear of the vessel. This provides the tactical advantage of being able tolift troops, their combat equipment and supplies onto the same ship. Therefore, theship contributes to all phases of the amphibious assault.

The well decks are upper and lower vehicle storage areas, which hold most ofthe embarked troops’ heavy combatequipment, such as tanks, trackedamphibious landing vehicles (AAV), andtrucks.

To facilitate the docking andloading of various sized landing craft,the ship can ballast down in the water,thereby flooding the well deck withenough water to enable the landing craftto enter the well deck through the sterngate door.

Once docked inside the well deck,troops, supplies and combat equipmentcan be loaded into or off of the amphibi-ous boats and vehicles while simulta-neously transporting troops andequipment via helicopter from the flightdeck.

Length:

Width:

Displacment:

Speed:


Builders:

569 feet

100 feet

16,710 tons(full load)

20 knots

400800

New York NavalShipyard

STATISTICS

LPD-5

37

USS Pearl Harbor is a Dock Landing Ship (LSD) designed to operate as anintegral part of a balanced, mobile and modern amphibious strike force. The ship

couples a well deckwith a flight deck togive greater dimen-sion to the Navy’stroop and vehiclelifting capability.Primarily designed totransport pre-loadedheavy landing craftto the shore and

discharge them rapidly, she is also equipped with machine shops and facilities toprovide dry docking and repairs to small boats. Pearl Harbor’s mission is to trans-port Marines with their associatedcombat equipment, and launch pre-loaded assault landing craft and helicop-ters during amphibious operationsagainst hostile shores.

The Pearl Harbor has the berthing,feeding and cargo storage capability forover 400 fully equipped combat troops.Intrinsic in the well deck operation is aballasting system that fills the deck withsea water to a depth necessary forloading landing craft such as the LCUand LCAC.

USS Pearl Harbor is the last of theHarper’s Ferry dock landing ship class,Pearl Harbor honors the naval base onthe island of Oahu, Hawaii, and the menand women who fought so valiantly inresponse to the surprise attack byJapanese forces December 7, 1941.

Pearl Harbor is the Navy’s 12thWhidbey Island-class dock landing ship,and the fourth to be built with a “cargovariant” configuration, which providesadditional space for Marine Corpsequipment.

USS Pearl HarborUSS Pearl HarborUSS Pearl HarborUSS Pearl HarborUSS Pearl Harbor

LSD-52

Length:

Width:

Displacment:

Speed:

Armament:


Builders:

STATISTICS609 feet

84 feet

17,000 tons(full load)

20+ knots

Four 3-inch twinbarrel guns, twoMK38 25mmmachine gunsand two 20mmPhalanx guns

346403

AvondaleIndustries, NewOrleans, Louisi-ana

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winning battles

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