USS Boxer and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Celebrate Triumphant Return from Indo-Pacific Deployment

More than 2,500 Sailors and Marines, part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG-MEU), showcased their strategic prowess in a series of joint and combined exercises. Proven through a deployment to the 7th Fleet area, they participated in foreign disaster support and various other operations.

U.S. Navy Capt. Tate Robinson, commanding Amphibious Squadron 5, praised the team’s tactical expertise. They participated in Exercise Ssang Yong, enhancing the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance, and demonstrated combined amphibious capabilities.

The operation further included a personnel exchange with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and several replenishments-at-sea with the Royal New Zealand Navy. This cooperation underscored the importance of these military alliances.

In a historic move, the H-1 Helicopter detachment transferred to USS Miguel Keith, marking its first operation from this ship class. The detachment executed close-air support training with live ordnance, expanding the MEU’s combat capacity.

The Boxer ARG-MEU shifted to the Philippines to aid in disaster response after Typhoon Krathon. They transported vital supplies to remote areas, showcasing the ARG-MEU’s adaptability in crisis situations.

Following disaster relief, the group participated in Exercise KAMANDAG 8 in the Philippines, enhancing defense and humanitarian capabilities. Allies like Australia, France, and the U.K. joined in, creating a robust training environment.

Col. Sean Dynan expressed pride in the unit’s accomplishments during the deployment. Their work, from crisis response to theater exercises, illustrated the skill and dedication required in complex operations.

The Boxer is the flagship of the ARG, joining other key units and aircraft, including the USS Somerset, USS Harpers Ferry, and several specialized squadrons. The deployment involved over 3,500 aircraft operations and the handling of extensive logistics.

Throughout its journey, the ARG-MEU completed eight underway replenishments, distributing more than 5 million gallons of fuel. The units covered over 3,200 nautical miles, reaffirming the U.S.’s commitment to a stable Indo-Pacific region.

Homeported in San Diego, Boxer continues to serve as a vital asset of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, supporting the U.S. 3rd Fleet with its ability to perform a wide range of military and humanitarian operations.