As Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia drew to a close, the Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) broke down their rifles, scrubbed their nylon tents, and performed maintenance on the vehicles that took them to the Indonesian shores. While living ashore for six days, they participated in various exercises with their Indonesian counterparts, building trust and increasing interoperability between the Marines of both countries.

"One thing we have to be proud of is how well we came together to work with the Indonesian forces," said Maj. Ben Reid, commander of the Marines' landing force during CARAT Indonesia. "We had different units without previous relationships, and had only a month and a half to plan together before CARAT Indonesia. By the end, we are all one team and our ability to adapt and win really showed here."

During CARAT Indonesia, the two countries' Marines improved amphibious warfare tactics, trained on field maneuvers, simulated humanitarian relief scenarios, and shared field survival skills. The partner nations worked together on topics including beach surveys, water desalination, and even which local species are safe for human consumption in survival situations.

"We grilled snakes and water lizard," said Lance Cpl. Ricky Baird, an amphibious assault vehicle (AAV) mechanic. "It was a once in a lifetime experience. We got to show them we are on the same team and that we are open to their customs."

Several beach landings also took place during the exercise. A few miles off the beach, the Indonesian amphibious ship KRI Makassar launched its landing craft, while the Germantown simultaneously launched its landing force.

"We put all these units together and completed the most complex military evolution there is- a strike from the sea," said Reid.

Developing professional partnerships and tearing down cultural barriers was a common theme throughout the entire event. It could be easily seen in every Marine who participated.

"The well-led [Korps Marinar], Indonesia's joint military forces, set the tone for hospitality, enthusiasm and motivation," said 1st Sgt. Jose Romero, senior enlisted leader for the Marines embarked aboard Germantown. "It was an honor to partner with the KORMAR and to take part in a cultural exchange with them."

As CARAT Indonesia wrapped up, both the Indonesian and American Marines took away new skills and knowledge to improve future bilateral missions, such as humanitarian aid and disaster relief, the most frequently exercised mission in the typhoon-prone region.

"This operation, which involved 600 Marines and Sailors and even more Indonesian forces, was a success because of the understanding and partnership amongst all the teams involved," said Romero. "I believe all the previous CARATs established a solid foundation for us. The high caliber participants, as well as the professional and disciplined Indonesian forces, made this a win for all teams."

For more news from Destroyer Squadron 7, visit www.navy.mil/local/ds7/