Charlie Co Maintains Rifle Proficiency Aboard USS Somerset [Image 5 of 9]

The image depicts a live-fire training event taking place aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD-25) in the South China Sea, with U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Eric Almaguer, a team leader from Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 15 (BLT 15), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participating in the event. The training was conducted as part of the routine operations of the USS Somerset and the embarked elements of the 15th MEU in the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet area of operations.

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet is the largest forward-deployed numbered fleet in the world, with its headquarters in Japan and its area of operations stretching from the International Date Line to the Malacca Strait and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the bottom tip of Indonesia in the south. The fleet is responsible for maintaining the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in the region.

The Marines from Charlie Company, BLT 15, were aboard the USS Somerset for the training event to maintain their rifle proficiency and readiness. The live-fire training involved marking targets and engaging them with their rifles to ensure their accuracy and effectiveness in various situations. This training is essential for the Marines to be prepared for potential missions and contingencies in the Indo-Pacific region.

The 15th MEU is a versatile and flexible force that can respond to a wide range of crisis situations, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and military operations. The unit is composed of approximately 2,200 Marines and sailors and is equipped with various types of vehicles, artillery, and aircraft. The embarked elements of the 15th MEU aboard the USS Somerset include the Command Element, Ground Combat Element, Logistics Combat Element, and the Aviation Combat Element.

The live-fire training event aboard the USS Somerset is just one aspect of the ongoing training and readiness efforts of the Marines and sailors aboard the ship. The routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations provide valuable opportunities for the Marines and sailors to hone their skills and prepare for potential missions while contributing to the preservation of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.