US, Thai marines storm beaches for Cobra Gold
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TOKYO -- Royal Thailand Marines and U.S. troops from Okinawa’s 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit stormed the beaches Thursday in Hat Yao, Thailand, as part of the ongoing Cobra Gold exercise.
The amphibious assault raid is one of several live-fire demonstrations taking place during the 30th annual exercise that wraps up Feb. 18.
An estimated 11,220 people - including 7,200 U.S. servicemembers - are participating in Cobra Gold, which includes senior leader meetings and community assistance projects throughout Thailand. Participating countries include Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Malaysia, along with hosts Thailand and the United States.
Among the Marine units participating are: Okinawa’s 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, with the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment acting as its ground combat element; Marine Wing Support Squadron 172; Marine Aircraft Group 36; and Combat Logistics Regiments 35 and Combat Logistics Regiment 3.
The Sasebo, Japan-based USS Essex, USS Germantown and USS Denver also are participating.
From staff reports
