Amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) departed White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, after embarking 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) personnel, equipment and supplies, June 8.

Bonhomme Richard, together with the 31st MEU, are scheduled to train alongside Australian counterparts in the biennial exercise Talisman Saber and serve as a ready-force for any type of contingency while on the multi-month deployment.

"It's great to have the Marines of the 31st MEU back onboard," said Capt. Larry McCullen, commanding officer of Bonhomme Richard. "The safe execution of the on load stands as an example of the professionalism and precision of this team when we come together onboard this great warship. I look forward to the training that our Sailors and Marines will accomplish together."

Bonhomme Richard Sailors and 31st MEU Marines will train to develop a rapid ability to mobilize people and equipment, to enhance interoperability with Indo-Asia-Pacific partners and allies, improve Navy-Marine Corps contingency response capability and demonstrate U.S. commitment to the region.

Bonhomme Richard is the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which also includes the amphibious transport dock USS Green Bay (LPD 20) and the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48).

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