The amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48), with embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), departed Guam after a 14-day voyage repair availability (VRAV) Sept. 14.

The visit provided the Ashland an opportunity for maintenance, several readiness assessments and community relations projects while Marines with Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines and Combat Logistics Battalion 31, both with the 31st MEU, conducted tactical unit-level training.

Ashland's VRAV was significantly aided by members of the sub-tender Emery S. Land (AS-39), who completed over 100 maintenance checks on board Ashland. Also, Sailors on board received expertise and assistance on maintenance from the Systems and Equipment Material Assessment Team (SEMAT) from the USS Frank Cable (AS-40) and the Emery S. Land (AS-39).

"We had a very productive visit," said Cmdr. Patrick German, executive Officer of Ashland. "The Emery S. Land acts as a floating Ship Repair Facility. They came on board and ensured that our maintenance would be completed efficiently. The SEMAT team trained the Sailors on lagging and facilities maintenance - all important as we continue to make Ashland as operationally ready as possible."

In addition to the VRAV, the ship accomplished several readiness assessments that tested all aspects of defense, medical and logistical readiness.

"These are the first steps to completing the final certifications," said German. "Our Sailors performed well on all of the assessments and it was a great start."

Meanwhile, the 31st MEU took this occasion to accomplish infantry tactics, techniques and procedures ashore at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, from Aug. 31-Sept. 6.

"Practicing these procedures ensures that our Marines will be ready to engage the enemy and accomplish their mission," said 1st Lt. Constantine Filipos, a Weapons Platoon commander attached to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. "It's important that we stay sharp for any contingency."

While in port, Sailors and Marines also had the opportunity to participate in community relations projects and support the Island Girl Power (IGP) program, a youth prevention program with the primary mission of reducing teen pregnancy, suicide, substance and sexual abuse.

"I believe the biggest benefit is the connection to our volunteers that are coming from various community service programs," said Juanita Blaz, IGP director. "I love for them to meet new people and seeing the wonderful work they can do together."

During the COMREL, Sailors and Marines assisted the IGP center by clearing brush to renovate a tropical environment where the girls could feel safe in exploring the ecosystem around them.

"We were given a tour to learn about the program and when we arrived and my group helped clear a path for their nature park," said Seaman Sean Lee, a Sailor volunteer from Miami. "It felt good to help out and be a part of a positive program."

Ashland and the 31st MEU are operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to enhance partnerships and be a ready-response force for any type of contingency.