Official websites use .mil
Secure .mil websites use HTTPS
III MEF is the nucleus of a joint and coalition Stand-In Force within the First Island Chain. In competition, III MEF assures and expands access for the joint force across the Indo-Pacific. In crisis, it provides in-place response forces to secure allies and partners while deterring adversary aggression. In conflict, III MEF fights from advanced naval bases as part of a naval expeditionary force and enables Joint Force objectives in the Indo-Pacific.
LEARN MORE
U.S. Marines plan a patrol route during exercise Shinka 24 on Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, Oct. 30, 2024.
3d Littoral Logistics Battalion conduct a hoist training exercise at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Oct. 28, 2024.
A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft takes off from Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands, during exercise Keen Sword 25, Oct. 29, 2024.
U.S. service members and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force members work together during bilateral airfield damage repair training.
U.S. Marines and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members utilize M142 HIMARS to execute fire missions during exercise Keen Sword 25.
U.S. Marines with 12th Marine Littoral Regiment, provide visual oversight of an M142 HIMARS movement in preparation for Keen Sword 25.
U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team conduct a squad attack range on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Oct. 15, 2024.
OKINAWA, JAPAN – The beaches of Okinawa are a peaceful escape for both locals and service members stationed on the island. The high temperatures, clear skies and gentle breezes create the perfect conditions to enjoy a day off work swimming in the clear, turquoise waters surrounding the island.
continue reading
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, Okinawa, Japan – Lt. Gen. James Glynn, commander U.S Marine Corps Forces Pacific, joined Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general, during a recent trip to Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan October 23, 2024.
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, Okinawa, Japan - III Marine Expeditionary Force Marines and Sailors will participate in exercise Keen Sword 25, a joint-bilateral biennial exercise, alongside the Japan Self-Defense Force from October 23 through November 1, 2024, throughout Japan.
CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, JAPAN – On Oct. 6, 2024, three U.S Marines and one U.S Navy Sailor were in a taxi northbound on the Okinawa Expressway heading back to Camp Schwab, when their driver suddenly stopped due to a vehicle blocking the road. The vehicle was involved in a crash and inside was a local resident. Without hesitation, the group of four rushed to assist.