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thedrifter
11-03-03, 08:16 AM
Engineers storm Ie Shima for three weeks of training
Submitted by: MCB Camp Butler
Story Identification Number: 20031029214724
Story by Cpl. Ryan D. Libbert



IE SHIMA, Japan(October 17, 2003) -- Marines and sailors from 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Force Service Support Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and soldiers from the 505th Quartermaster Brigade took part in Exercise Tayoreru Partner from Oct. 13 to Nov. 1.

"Tayoreru," which means dependable in the Japanese language, is held annually at the Marine Corps training grounds at Ie Shima, an island located 10 kilometers off Okinawa's northwestern coast.

The purpose of the exercise is to give 9th ESB Marines a chance to fine-tune their engineering skills in a field environment, according to 1st Lt. Kenny K. Chase, camp commandant for Tayoreru Partner.

"The training we are conducting focuses on working together as a battalion to support a brigade-size MAGTF (Marine Air Ground Task Force)." Chase said. "The exercise will let us know where we stand as a battalion in terms of supporting III MEF."

Three of the companies from the battalion participated in separate phases of the exercise.

Company A was assigned to set up field fortifications using wire obstacles. Utilizing protective, tactical and supplementary wire, the company practiced setting up barriers designed to draw enemy units into the fields of fire of infantry Marines.

Bulk Fuel Company was assigned to work with engineers from the Army's 505th Quartermaster Brigade to set up a fuel station. Both Marines and soldiers used a hose and reel system that stretched out over one and a half miles connecting various 50,000-gallon bladders. Using purified water instead of fuel, the servicemembers trained to improve their capabilities in supplying motor transportation units.

Services Company focused on supplying water for the battalion as well as the mock units they would be supporting, through Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Units (ROWPU). Drawing water from the sea, Marines operated and maintained the machinery, which removes all salt and hazardous contaminants from the water, making it fit for drinking and other uses.

This is the fourth time the battalion has conducted this exercise, doing so on an annual basis. Marines from 9th ESB look forward to testing their skills on Ie Shima every year.

"It's good to be doing what's required of us in a field environment," said Lance Cpl. Jeremy C. Silva, hygiene equipment operator from Support Co. "I don't think we would be very proficient if we had to go to war without getting any training in the field."


http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/27334E8E77B0727A85256DCF000F53D0?opendocument


Sempers,

Roger
:marine: