An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

 

"Infanteria de Marina" Celebrate Their 478th Birthday Aboard USNS Spearhead

02 March 2015
Members of the Spanish "Infanteria de Marina" or Spanish navy marines celebrated their service's 478th birthday, while aboard the Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1) Feb. 27.
Members of the Spanish "Infanteria de Marina" or Spanish navy marines celebrated their service's 478th birthday, while aboard the Military Sealift Command joint high-speed vessel USNS Spearhead (JHSV 1) Feb. 27.

Five Spanish navy marines are aboard Spearhead to support Africa Partnership Station 2015, enhancing training capabilities and interoperability with the other 21 partner nation participants.

"It is my pleasure to have members of the oldest marine corps in the world aboard," said Spearhead's Ship's Master Douglas Casavant. "I feel honored as a ship's captain to have such precious cargo onboard and look forward to getting to know more about their nation and service."

"I am delighted to share in such a great and historic moment in the Spanish marine's history," said Africa Partnership Station 2015 mission commander Cmdr. Matthew Flemming.

Formed in 1537 by Charles I of Spain, the Spanish navy marines claim the title of the oldest marine corps in the world. The Spanish navy marines are Spain's premier amphibious landing assault force. The distinguished marine force has seen action all over the world, including Santo Domingo (1804), Cuba (1898), and Morocco (1911).

Living up to its proud history, the "Infanteria de Marina" is a highly capable modern force with various specialties including artillery, rotary-wing aircraft and a special operations force.

The Spanish navy marines continue in their role as an elite amphibious force with a presence in Europe, Central America and Asia operating as an emergency evacuation force for civilians and capable deterrent to aggression.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.
 

Google Translation Disclaimer

Guidance-Card-Icon Dept-Exclusive-Card-Icon