The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) arrived in Darwin, Australia, July 25, for the embarkation of more than 600 Marines, attached to 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), after recently completing Talisman Sabre 2015.

During the on load, Bonhomme Richard's combat cargo department will load over 90 vehicles and trailers via helicopter, Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC), and pier-side cranes.

"I am confident that the Marines assigned to combat cargo and the ship's Sailors involved will knock this back load out of the park," said Chief Warrant Officer Jose N. Alvarez Jr., combat cargo officer. "They genuinely care about doing the right thing."

After the loading is complete, Sailors and Marines will be able to enjoy rest and relaxation in Darwin, as well as participate in Moral Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours in the area during their off-duty time.

Talisman Sabre 2015 was a two-week biennial training exercise between the U.S. Pacific Command and the Australian Defense Force (ADF) which consisted of an amphibious landing ashore July 11.

Bonhomme Richard is the lead ship of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

For more news from Commander, Amphibious Squadron 11, visit www.navy.mil/.