Corporal Jason Brown, a motor transport mechanic with 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, checks his vehicle?s oil prior to departing Camp Lejeune, N.C, June 2, 2010. The MEU Marines traveled to Fort A.P. Hill, Va., to participate in Realistic Urban Training. During the 18-day training evolution, the MEU will conduct several urban training exercises as part of its pre-deployment training. The urban environment is among the most challenging tactical environments MEU Marines may face. 26th MEU is scheduled to deploy later this fall.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Santiago G. Colon Jr.

26th MEU prepares for urban warfare

4 Jun 2010 | Lance Cpl. Santiago G. Colon Jr. 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit

FORT A.P. HILL, Va. -- Marines and sailors with 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit initiated their last major land-based pre-deployment exercise, Realistic Urban Training, aboard Fort AP Hill, Va., June 2.

During the 18-day training evolution, the three elements of the MEU will conduct several urban training exercises in a realistic environment. Some of the exercises include vehicle control point procedures, tactical site exploitation, key leader engagement, language training, interaction with host-nation forces, Improvised Explosive Device recognition, riot control, detentions, and platoon-sized urban assault. Units will also conduct combined arms integration and live fire, convoy live fire and other exercises.

The MEU will follow RUT with a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in early July and a Certification Exercise (CERTEX) in August, which will conclude its pre-deployment training.

The Camp Lejeune-based MEU, which is comprised of Battalion Landing Team 3/8, Combat Logistics Battalion 26, and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 (Reinforced), is preparing for a deployment aboard USS Kearsarge, USS Ponce, and USS Carter Hall this fall.