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Who we are

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.

 

 

01

Combat Trauma Training

A U.S. Marine with 12th LCT, sets security during a combat trauma management course evaluation on Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 27, 2026.

02

JTAC | Joint Training

A Marine programs half-quick for JTAC operations during routine training at le-Shima, Okinawa, Japan,  Aug. 20, 2026.

03

Simulated Landing Zone

U.S. Marines establish a simulated expeditionary airfield landing zone at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, Aug. 10, 2026.

04

NMESIS Training

Marines with 12th MLR maneuver a Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 7, 2026.

05

Welcome Home 31st MEU

A Marine returning from deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embraces his family at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, July 22, 2026.

06

Opportunity in the Indo-Pacific

U.S. Marines with III MEF share their perspectives on the professional, personal, and family benefits of serving in the Indo-Pacific.

 

Featured News

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni hosts inaugural Sergeant School
1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Sept. 3, 2026 | 3:21
Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni hosts inaugural Sergeant School
1st Marine Aircraft Wing
Sept. 3, 2026 | 3:21
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Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni hosts inaugural Sergeant School
Any Sensor, Any Shooter
Fortune Favors the Bold: Sustain the Fight
Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 and Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 conduct harpoon exercise
Marines Across III MEF Participate in Specialized METOC Training
31st MEU | Change of Command Livestream
Fortune Favors the Bold: Own the Air
Fortune Favors the Bold: Seize and Secure
III MEF Marines participate in Martial Arts Instructor Course 91-26
1st LAAD participates in exercise Tenacious Archer 26
VMFA-242 enhances readiness during Valiant Shield 26
3rd Marine Division Acquires New Multi Mission Reconnaissance Craft-B
III MEF demonstrates MRIC live-fire during Valiant Shield 26
Life Without III MIG
Credible Deterrence: U.S. Marines and Japan Self-Defense Force in Resolute Dragon 2026
 
III Marine Expeditionary Force