Amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (BHR ESG), departed its forward-deployed base of Sasebo, Japan, Feb. 27.

Bonhomme Richard and amphibious ships assigned to the BHR ESG, together with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, will conduct a routine patrol in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

"During this patrol, we are looking forward to the U.S. Navy/Marine joint effort to preserve amphibious readiness and increase operational capabilities in the Pacific," Capt. George Doyon, commodore, Amphibious Squadron 11.

Bonhomme Richard, amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 42), and amphibious transport dock USS Green Bay (LPD 20) will make up the amphibious core of the ESG, with potential for cruiser-destroyer assets to integrate when needed.

Green Bay departed mid-January and recently completed Cobra Gold.

While on patrol, the BHR ESG and 31st MEU will conduct U.S. Navy-U.S. Marine integration training and participate in bilateral training with regional counterparts.

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