An Amphibious Landing Exercise carried out by ROK and US forces.
By Lt J Kennedy-Good
7 December 2007
On 14 November 2007, Republic of Korea (ROK) and United States forces conducted a joint amphibious assault on Toksok-ri beach, located near Pohang on the south-eastern side of the Korean peninsula.
Colonel Tim Gall, myself and three other NZDF officers and military personnel, were given the rare opportunity to witness this impressive amphibious assault.
Observed from a purpose built open-aired theatre, the exercise combined elements of the ROK and US Marines, Navy and Air Force.
The assault consisted of four phases. The first phase was an aerial infiltration by a special reconnaissance team, which landed behind Toksok-ri. The second was a marine assault consisting of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. 62 Korean Amphibious Assault Vehicles as well as US Landing Craft Utilities and Amphibious Assault Vehicles deployed from USS Essex, Juneau and ROKS Dokdu. The third phase was an air assault on Toksok-ri in order to clear the beach for the 31st MEU, followed by the landing of the 31st MEU and an airdrop of supplies from C-130s and CH-47 Chinooks.
From the aerial infiltration to the final airdrop, the exercise was seamless, bringing together several elements of the two armed forces.
It was deemed to be the largest amphibious assault to have occurred worldwide in the last 5 years. To be able to overcome potential language and cultural barriers to achieve a common goal was an impressive feat. The final impression was that of an awe-inspiring force.
Ends
(Photos on this page courtesy of LCDR Chris Dignan)