Southern Partnership Station Returns to Nicaragua

30 Mar 2009
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew Olay, Southern Partnership Station Public Affairs

BLUEFIELDS, Nicaragua – High speed vessel Swift (HSV 2) anchored off the coast of Bluefields for the second time in as many months yesterday to begin a nine-day training mission during Southern Partnership Station (SPS).

Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of various specialty platforms to the U.S. Southern Command area of focus in the Caribbean and Latin America. The mission goal is primarily information sharing with navies, coast guards, and civilian services throughout the region. SPS is comprised of Navy training and support teams, Marine Corps training teams, foreign naval officers and civilian contract mariners on a Military Sealift Command platform.

While in the area, training teams from Navy Expeditionary Training Command, Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group will be teaching courses to members of the Nicaraguan Navy and Marine Corps. The courses provide instruction in boarding team tactics, armed sentry operations, port security, martial arts and small boat engine repair.

Cmdr. Christopher Barnes, mission commander for SPS, sees return visits such as this one to Nicaragua as being advantageous to the goals of the overall mission.

“Since we’ve been here once before, we now know what the needs are, and the trainers know what the needs are, so we can adapt our courseware to give [the Nicaraguans] what’s required,” said Barnes. Barnes added that returning to train the same students whom the SPS team interacted with during the first port call to Nicaragua will allow the level of training to be more advanced than before. “My expectations are even greater,” Barnes said.

The final SPS visit to Nicaragua comes on the heels of a four day training evolution in Cartagena, Colombia. While in Colombia, SPS instructors trained 124 students in a variety of topics such as combat lifesaving, nonlethal weapons and junior enlisted leadership principles.

The return visit to Nicaragua is the second-to-last stop for SPS, with a follow-on visit to Jamaica scheduled before Swift completes the SPS mission. In addition to prior visits to Nicaragua, Colombia and Jamaica, SPS had also twice visited Panama and Barbados. The mission also made single stops in El Salvador and the Dominican Republic.

The mission is coordinated through U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet (NAVSO/ 4th Fleet) with partner nations to meet their specific training requests. As the Naval Component Command of SOUTHCOM, NAVSO’s mission is to direct U.S. Naval Forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Various operations include counter-illicit trafficking, Theater Security Cooperation, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

Fourth Fleet is the numbered fleet assigned to NAVSO, exercising operational control of assigned forces in the SOUTHCOM area of focus.

International Marines unite for Africa Partnership Station Nashville

24 March 2009
By Sgt. Elsa PortilloAfrica Partnership Station Nashville Public Affairs
USS NASHVILLE, At sea – One Portuguese and five Spanish Marines joined the U.S. Marines on USS Nashville (LPD 13) while in port at Rota, Spain, and are currently taking part in Africa Partnership Station (APS) Nashville.
This mission brings together not only U.S. and African security forces, but military branches from Europe and South America as well. Currently, Brazil, Denmark, France, are contributing in planning and logistics in addition to observing.
This melting pot of cultures and perspectives gives everyone the chance to teach and learn from one another. This exchange is happening each day between all the Marines.
“I expect many things from this exercise with U.S. Marines,” said Staff Sgt. Alejandro Martin, infantryman, Amphibious Brigade, Spanish Marine Corps. “I hope I can learn a lot and can show all the things I know and learn in my country.”
The Spanish, Portuguese, and U.S. Marines have exchanged techniques regarding both marksmanship and martial arts skills. Sergeant Alvin F. McLean, advisor and
Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) instructor, Marine Advisor Team (MAT), Marine Forces Africa (MARFORAF), welcomed the Spanish Marines into the MCMAP training. The two groups of Marines watched each other with interest and realized many of the techniques were similar.
“It’s a possibility to modify things we have done,” said Pvt. Daniel Moral, communications operator, Amphibious Brigade, Spanish Marine Corps.
“We can see a better way to do things, so that we can improve our skills. We can keep going further to be the best at martial arts. This other country does the same thing but another way. We can get the best part of each other and unify it.”The interaction between the Portuguese, Spanish and U.S. Marines served as a good introduction to the challenges of teaching other host nation security forces. It also revealed a language barrier issue that U.S. Marines expect to be able to overcome.
“You just have to demonstrate more and take your time when instructing,” said Staff Sgt. Jason W. Elsdon, advisor, MAT, MARFORAF. “You have to have more leeway with your instruction. It’s going to take longer because they don’t know exactly what you’re saying to them. But by showing them over and over again you can overcome the barrier.”
The different nations will all work together during this initiative in different capacities, but the goal to share their knowledge with the African security forces is the same, according to Sgt. Abel Jorge, platoon commander, Portuguese Marine Corps.“It’s good for me to help others and to learn and comprehend another people, another culture,” Jorge said.

U.S. Marines partner with Liberian soldiers to deliver school supplies

4 March 2009
By Sgt. Elsa Portillo,Africa Partnership Station Nashville Public Affairs
MONROVIA, Liberia – U.S. Marines with Marine Advisor Team (MAT) and the Liberian Security Sector Reform (SSR) lent a helping hand to the soldiers with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) Feb. 17 to deliver school supplies to the United Methodist School System in Monrovia, Liberia.
The donation consisted of approximately 165 desks and 319 boxes containing school bags and school kits. The United Methodist School System received these items as a donation from a stateside organization and had it delivered through the U.S. Navy’s Project Handclasp program.
This program, created in 1962, allows the U.S. Navy to collect donations from the private sector, transport them in their empty cargo space, and distribute them at ports of call. Project Handclasp gives a mode of transport and also gives U.S. Sailors and Marines the ability to foster positive relationships with citizens all around the world.
“It’s really, really exciting to see our new military coming to help and working with U.S. Marines as partners,” said Dr. Anthony Dioh, director, United Methodist School System. “It is so exciting and it is helpful. It gives us hope that we have a new military that will not only protect the people but also serve the people, so I’m really delighted to know that this is possible.”
This is the first time the United Methodist School System has used Project Handclasp, and it has been a success on various fronts. It has helped alleviate the cost of transportation for the Liberian facilitator and also given the U.S. Marines and AFL soldiers a chance to interact and make a difference in the community.
“I think it’s a really good idea to combine humanitarian aid and the U.S. military,” said U.S. Marine Cpl. Sean Castaneda, advisor, MAT and Cheyenne, Wy., native. “It gives everyone a chance to help and makes everyone feel good about being able to do something to help another person.”
All parties enjoyed the interaction and said they hope this was not a one-time event. Liberia is recovering from civil war, and donations via Project Handclasp play a part in this process. “This is the first time we have had help from the Navy,” said Dioh. “I’m praying that this will continue.… We just want to say thank you and that this new AFL has given us hope that there is a better future for our children, a better future for our nation.”

Liberia welcomes U.S. Marines for APS Nashville

4 March 2009
By Sgt. Elsa Portillo,Africa Partnership Station Nashville Public Affairs
MONROVIA, Liberia – The heat is oppressive and draining, but the Liberian soldiers at Edward Binyah Kesselly Base in Monrovia, Liberia, still listen and participate while U.S. Marines with Marine Advisor Team share their experience with them. This interaction is part of Africa Partnership Station (APS) Nashville, an initiative that is partnering the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps with West African nations in order to promote maritime safety and security.
This is especially beneficial for this country, as Liberia’s army was demobilized in 1999. In 2006, Liberia began rebuilding its military, and it currently is composed of 2,000 soldiers. They have all gone to recruit training and have attended military occupational specialty (MOS) schools. However, the creation of a solid military takes time, consistent training and experience.
There are already organizations helping Liberia to achieve its rebuilding objectives by guiding training and teaching in MOS schools. There are also U.S. service members deployed here to advise these new soldiers under the Liberian Security Sector Reform. However, APS Nashville is helping by offering mentorship concerning non-commissioned officer leadership, combat lifesaver skills, logistics, operational risk management, non-lethal weapons tactics, and Marine Corps martial arts. These seminars are meant to give a well-rounded view on how the U.S. Marines conduct business and what they consider necessary traits and procedures for success.
“I think it is absolutely important to be here because they have a certain level of inexperience, being that the new AFL has only been around for a couple of years,” said Sgt. Jeremy Grieb, advisor, MAT and Portsmouth, N.H., native. “Hopefully, we can help fill in the gap, and in time, experience will catch up with them.”
The AFL soldiers may lack the time in service, but they definitely do not lack enthusiasm, dedication or patriotism. Many of the soldiers asked question after question, practiced martial arts techniques during their lunch time, and eagerly shared their reasons for joining the AFL. This level of participation is much like that of U.S. Marines and the advisors were refreshed to see such character traits.
“They were very responsive,” said Cpl. Michael Tormos, advisor, MAT and Nashua, N.H., native. “They are like sponges. They soaked up every bit of knowledge we had to offer and they asked for more.”
The time spent together is creating a valuable learning environment that is building a solid base of information for the Liberian soldiers to draw upon.
“I think it’s very good what they are doing here,” said Pvt. David Zubawuo. “They are helping us for the future for tomorrow in case of any problems we can take care of it ourselves.”
The AFL soldiers are looking to the future. There are new buildings and roads being built all over Monrovia, Liberia. There are many government and non-governmental agencies assisting to create an atmosphere of peace and stability for this nation. The hope for the future is bright and the U.S. Marines are happy to be a part of this effort.
“This has been a new experience and I have enjoyed it,” said Tormos. “It’s a great opportunity to be out here working with the AFL. I think this will have a great impact on the countries we are visiting because they will see America as a ‘big brother.’ It may also have an impact on surrounding countries, by showing them that Liberia is serious about progressing towards the future.”

U.S. Marines, Soldiers and Sailor join with Liberian soldiers, for AFL rebuilding

4 March 2009

By Sgt. Elsa Portillo,Africa Partnership Station Nashville Public Affairs
MONROVIA, Liberia – Marines with the Marine Advisor Team (MAT) in support of Africa Partnership Station (APS) Nashville arrived in Liberia Feb. 16 to begin a nearly month-long partnership with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) at Edward Binyah Kesselly Base (EBK).
These Marines will be working in a unique environment which brings together a mixture of expertise and services. Currently, there are service members from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps and Navy, along with contractors from DynCorp International and Pacific Architects and Engineers (PAE) joining members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in assisting Liberia in rebuilding its army.
The army was demobilized in 1999, creating the need for recruitment and training of a new fighting force. The new army would come from all regions of Liberia, ensuring a fair representation of all its residents.
Currently, the AFL is 2,000 strong and includes approximately 70 women. The soldiers begin their recruit training at Barclay Training Center (BTC) in Monrovia, Liberia. DynCorp International is responsible for their basic training at BTC and additional entry-level training at Camp Ware. Once the recruits graduate, they move on to their military occupational specialty (MOS) schools, taught by PAE and located at EBK.
In conjunction with their MOS training, U.S. Africa Command sent a Military Mentor Team (MMT), consisting of U.S. Marine Corps, Army and Navy personnel, to mentor and advise the AFL under the Liberian Security Sector Reform (SSR) program.
Africa Partnership Station Nashville is also involved in the advising process, focusing on sharing leadership traditions, non-lethal tactics, logistics, combat lifesaver’s skills, and Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. The non-commissioned officer corps is one that needs to be developed in a young and new army, and this is the mission for the Marines here with APS.
According to SSgt. Jeffrey Richardson, advisor, MAT, the main focus of the exchange of ideas will focus on leadership skills. In turn, the intent is to create an environment where this new fighting force will continue to train itself and any new service members. The Liberian soldiers are excited to be part of their nation’s new beginning and also to learn new skills from all these counterparts.
“I’m very happy, and I think this training will make us more efficient in military life,” said Pvt. Thomas Kruahmie, AFL. “I am very happy for the Marines coming. Personally, I’m learning something that will benefit me tomorrow.”
This enthusiasm can be seen all around the base from the soldiers, said SSgt. Gary L. Morris, SSR advisor.
“I think this far outweighs my previous deployments overseas,” said SSgt. Gary L. Morris, SSR advisor. “I think it’s a great thing we’re doing. They want us here. They are very motivated and the citizens and soldiers are very receptive to what we are doing. I’ve been mentoring them and they pick my brain 24/7. It’s been fun. We’re having a good time and I think it’s a positive impact.”

APS Marines embark on African mission to boost safety, foster new partnerships

January 2009

By Sgt. Elsa Portillo

ABOARD USS NASHVILLE (LPD-13) —

Marines with Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group (MCTAG) left aboard the USS Nashville (LPD-13) Thursday to begin their deployment to the West Coast of Africa in support of Africa Partnership Station 2009 (APS-09). This initiative creates an opportunity for the United States to partner with the host nation security forces and foster regional maritime safety and security. The host nations will receive a variety of training from Marines who came from a variety of units across the U.S. but mainly from 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment. This diverse group of 28 Marines and two Corpsmen will teach skills tailored to the country’s expressed needs. The advisors will teach combat lifesaver skills, patrolling, Marine Corps Martial Arts, radio operations, and many other areas of expertise. This training is an opportunity for both the host nation and the MCTAG trainer advisors. “I think myself along with the Marines bring a variety of experience,” said Lance Cpl. John M. Allen, advisor, MCTAG. “We all have different seniority levels, jobs and ability groups but it all groups together and brings a collaborative effort to the team. The different levels of experience can help us with our weaknesses and give us strength to accomplish our mission.” This mission is not just the training of a few countries but it is an effort to strengthen partnerships and prevent future conflicts. The Marines understand the effect they may have and are excited to be a part of the unique experience.

“I think it’s a way for us to build camaraderie with different services other than the U.S. services,” said Sgt. Alvin F. McLean, advisor, MCTAG. “I think it’s more like a handshake between the countries. I’m very excited. I’ve been in the Marine Corps 14 years and to have this opportunity where I can be in the fight, go on ship for the first time, and go across the ocean and help people is great.” This deployment is a win-win situation for the Marines because they have the chance to help others and also see the world. “I think a lot of these countries are places that I would never go to on my own, and one of the reasons that people join the Marine Corps is to see different areas of the world,” said Maj. Timothy J. Hiel, officer-in-charge of the team. “I feel it’s a good opportunity to do that, and I think that being at sea and getting back to our maritime roots is a good aspect of it as well.” Participating in maritime operations is not the only tradition the Marine Corps is displaying during this operation; so is lending a helping hand. These Marines are ready to meet their host nation counterparts and do just that. “I think it is important,” said Allen. “I’d like to see more of these missions and not just in Iraq and Afghanistan. I would like there to be peacekeeping type missions but not strictly humanitarian missions either.” The APS mission involves not only Marines and Sailors training foreign military but also non-governmental agencies such as U.S. National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, Project Hope and the U.S. Agency for International Development. They will be providing assistance with medical outreach and fisheries management and patrolling. The training the host nations receive from the NGOs paired with the military-to-military training will give these African nations a holistic approach to building a safe and prosperous region. That is the end goal and one that everyone is happy to be participating in. The months spent training will teach everyone something about themselves and others and how we can successfully interact on a global scale. This mission is one of building safety and security but also building esprit de corps. “Every time I’ve done this in the past I’ve always come out with new relationships, new friends,” said Hiel. “I’ve always enjoyed it. I think the big thing is that you can learn things from these guys as well as teach things. I expect to come back a better rounded Marine. I think all these Marines will.”

APS Marines hone martial arts skills

1/26/2009

By Sgt. Elsa M. Portillo, Marine Forces Africa
ABOARD THE USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13)
The sounds of grunting and the stench of sweat permeates the air in the USS Nashville (LPD 13) well deck most afternoons. The Marines aboard are staying fit and keeping their mission of training host nation security forces in the forefront by regularly participating in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).The Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group (MCTAG) Marines will receive a two-fold benefit from their MCMAP training while on ship. They will maintain a fresh understanding of the techniques they will be passing on to the Africa Partnership Station 2009 host nations, and they will also have the opportunity to advance up the belt system.“I think it’s great that we’re going to be teaching this skill,” said Cpl. Thomas Sahagun, advisor, MCTAG. “People look to us Marines as the forefront in technology or the evolution of the battlefield, so teaching other people Marine Corps martial arts is really great. I think it will give them a boost in confidence, a different way other than using guns or other weapons to deter a riot since that’s what they do a lot of is riot control.”Giving Marines another weapon is exactly what MCMAP does. It gives Marines an option when reacting to a situation and not just an absolute response involving deadly force.“I think it brought back more of a warrior ethos to the Marine Corps,” said Cpl. Peter S. Garcia, advisor, MCTAG. “Granted, line training was pretty much go and take out the enemy, but MCMAP also shows Marines the escalation of force, not necessarily to just seek out and destroy but to use that escalation of force for anything not just combat.”The flexibility of the techniques used makes this program an asset in a variety of situations and builds a sense of confidence in the process.“I’ve noticed it’s brought confidence to a lot of Marines,” said Garcia, a Dayton, Ohio native. “They see some of the more difficult techniques, like ground fighting. A lot of Marines aren’t used to going to the ground unless they were wrestlers, so you see that confidence. You see that strength coming from the individual as they progress through MCMAP.”Mental and ethical conditioning are just two parts of the MCMAP equation. The third is physical. It adds to the overall conditioning of a Marine in conjunction with their regular physical fitness and water survival training, said Sgt. Alvin F. McLean, advisor and MCMAP instructor, MCTAG.“You don’t have combat on a PT (Physical Training) field,” he said. “You have it in Vietnam, Iraq or Afghanistan; therefore, you as a warrior have to be able to fight in any circumstance. Therefore, the water survival, PT and combat conditioning make you a more well-rounded warrior.” Being able to work through difficult situations, whether it be mentally, physically or morally, is a necessity. The martial arts program hits all these areas in order to better prepare Marines for any situation, Garcia said. “There’s that instinct in combat,” he said. “You are not just kicking down doors and shooting everything you see. You have to be able to flip back between the conscious and subconscious.”This split-second decision making is critical during an altercation, whether it be during combat or not. Therefore, McLean is hoping to share these skills with his shipmates as well as take away some valuable lessons of his own.“One of the missions for APS is to instruct foreign military on MCMAP,” said McLean, a Nanakuli, Hawaii native. “However, while aboard ship, I may have time to teach some of the Navy here. Learning how to teach students without any knowledge of MCMAP will provide me with experience I can take to the foreign nations.”It may have been an additional learning tool for McLean, but it was also just good, plain fun training for one particular Sailor.“It was interesting, fun and challenging,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Angel R. Ferro, hospital corpsman, USS Nashville. “I liked the forward shoulder roll the best. I am going to follow up and do it again.” The Marines aboard Nashville are taking part in Africa Partnership Station (APS) 2009. Nashville is serving as the flagship for APS 2009, an international initiative designed to foster enhanced maritime safety and security in west and central Africa.