Sailors and Marines from amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit successfully completed Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), Aug. 25, off the coast of Southern California.

COMPTUEX is a series of simulations, exercises and drills used to measure the performance and ability to effectively respond as an integrated team during evolutions and events that may occur while deployed.

Somerset, part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, is preparing for its upcoming maiden deployment.

"COMPTUEX afforded the 'blue-green' team on board Somerset to exercise our skills while tackling more complex problems over a compact, two-week schedule," said Capt. Darren Glaser, commanding officer of Somerset. "Our ability to integrate with our Marine counterparts through rapid planning and response scenarios further strengthens our relationship as a combat team."

During the exercise, the crews responded to a variety of drills including maritime interdiction operations, air-defense operations, and electronic warfare operations.

Key components of COMPTUEX included communication and cooperation, not only between the ships, but also between the Sailors and Marines aboard.

"COMPTUEX was a fantastic training event for the entire blue-green team," said Lt. Col. Matthew Lundgren, commander of troops on Somerset. "The relationships that are being built from the deckplates to the wardroom are turning Somerset's Sailors and Marines into a very formidable adversary for our nation's foes. We are looking forward to deploying overseas with our Navy partners to respond to crises as they occur."

The completion of COMPTUEX marks the second of three required pre-deployment certifications.

"I could not be more proud of the Sailors and Marines that made this operation a success," said Glaser.

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