US Navy's Amphibious Assault Ship Docks in Subic Bay, Philippines

USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) arrived in Subic Bay, Philippines on Oct. 6 to offload more than 2,000 Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) for the upcoming amphibious landing exercise (PHIBLEX).

The 10-day bilateral exercise will be conducted at sea and ashore in the Republic of the Philippines to improve interoperability, increase readiness, and develop professional and personal relationships between the two countries? militaries. This year?s focus is on several humanitarian assistance and infrastructure projects along with tactical field training.

?PHIBLEX is important because it helps promote defense and country relations between the U.S. and the Philippines,? said Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Gudgin, the future operations planner for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11. ?The two countries have a long history and this is one way to maintain friendship and country-to-country interactions.?

The ship?s visit is also an opportunity for the Sailors to experience local culture and participate in various tours offered by Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

Aside from the Marines and Sailors, USS Bonhomme Richard is also carrying amphibious assault vehicles, light armored vehicles, helicopters and Harrier fighter jets.

USS Bonhomme Richard, commanded by Capt. Daniel Dusek, is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed amphibious ready group and is currently operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

Source: http://blog.usnavyseals.com/2012/10/u-s-navys-amphibious-assault-ship-docks-in-subic-bay-philippines.html

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