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.
U.S. Marine checks bolts on a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter during routine maintenance at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, May...
A U.S. Marine operates a NMESIS on to a U.S. Army LCU during Exercise Balikatan 2026 at Calayan, Cagayan, Philippines, May 2, 2026.
U.S. Marines load a NMESIS onto a C-130J during Exercise Balikatan 2026 at Cagayan North International Airport, Lal-lo, Philippines, April 25, 2026.
A U.S. Marine with 3rd Marine Division conducts a hike during the COMMSTRAT Field Training Exercise at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, April 8, 2026.
Republic of Korea Marine Corps tanks fire after rehearsing squad attacks during the Korean Marine Exchange Program 26.1
U.S. Marines with III MEF share their perspectives on the professional, personal, and family benefits of serving in the Indo-Pacific.
The U.S. Marine Corps is committed to the safety and security of its Marines, Sailors, civilian and contractor personnel, families and tenants. To enhance our ability to communicate critical information during emergencies, all installations are transitioning from the AtHoc system to the new Alert! mass notification system, effective 1 April 2026.
continue reading