USS Tarawa (LHA 1) - Naval Cruise Book

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nder one commander. This air- round task, force concept is de- gned to thoroughly exploit the Dmbat power inherent in air and round assets by closely integrating lem into a single force. It brings ' hat it needs to sustain itself from le sea for the rapid accomplishment f the mission or to pave the way for )llow-on forces. The MEU is an ex- editionary intervention force with le ability to move quickly, on short otice, to wherever needed to accom- lish whatever is required. bovp- A marine conducting weapons training prior to his embarkation on Tarawa. M.E.U. Page 25

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above: Marines maintain their high state of readiness by planning for every contingency. M.E.U. Page 24 the ground and aviation marines and their equipment functioning. Includ- ed within their ranks are medical, dental, engineering, communica- tions, maintenance and many other technical experts. The Command Element (CE) pro- vides the command and control of the other three elements of the MEU. In addition to the MEU commander and his supporting staff, the CE may include specialized detachments such as an air control detachment, an air defense detachment, a signal intelli- gence detachment, and a force recon- naissance detachment. The MEU is unique in that its air and ground combat element are com- bined with combat service support

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above: Two marines stalking the opposition in a training exercise. BLT 1 9 Page 26