The Fighting 13th MEU

The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, an amphibious force affectionately referred to as “America’s 9-1-1 force,” a reflection of it’s agile and fierce posture and ever-present combat readiness around the globe, hosted the Canadians during a critical point in pre-deployment work-up training.

In January, the MEU was formed with the attachment of Battalion Landing Team 2/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron-163 “Evil Eyes," and MEU Service Support Group-13 “Shamrock Warriors.” It is currently involved in a six-month training cycle to prepare for the Western Pacific ‘05 deployment, scheduled for July.

Leadership Strengthened

Dawe, a Kingston, Ontario, native, is relatively new to the PPCLI, joining 3rd Bn. in October 2004. Though he is new to this leadership role, Dawe said he observed a level of maturity and leadership in his unit that he hadn’t seen prior to training with the Fighting 13th.

“Usually the novelty of training wears off after a bit,” started Dawe with a “let’s be realistic” tone, “but it’s really been a reality check. Some of us weren’t aware of how intense, fast-paced, and very violent war can be,” he continued. “I (now) feel prepared as a leader. It’s made me mature … slightly.”

The intensity he described was most likely the constant echo of improvised explosive devices, mortar shells, automatic weapons fire, AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters and simulated Arabic screams.

Aside from Marine warfighting equipment on the training area, Hollywood production crews were on deck providing make-up, actors, pyrotechnics and costumes that amplified the realistic training.

“This is our first exercise with multiple elements like this. The locals, the ‘press’ … it just takes the fight to a whole new level,” Dawe said.

He said the idea to expand the training opportunities for the 3rd PPCLI came in December. Early in the year, upper-echelon brass from the U.S. and Canada coordinated this joint training effort with the Fighting 13th, and on March 17, the Canadians found themselves in the desolate Mojave Desert plains of Southern California Logistics Airport, a realigned, former U.S. Air Force Base.

Base housing and several facilities at the site were open for exploitation in the interest of combat readiness

Professional Marines

Instruction for operations in the urban environment was led by Special Operations Training Group, who is preparing the MEU for it’s Special Operations Capable qualification before the “float.” The level of instruction undoubtedly had a positive impact on the soldiers.

“The instructors were knowledgeable and they spoke from experience,” said Pvt. Ryan McLaren, machine gunner, C Co., 3rd PPCLI.

Pvt. Ryan VanHorlick agreed, saying, “it’s one thing to hear this stuff from book mongers, but from someone who’s actually been (in combat), it really means something.”

VanHorlick and McLaren, both from British Columbia, agreed that the professionalism of the Marines was unparalleled to their experiences with “other” forces at Fort Lewis, Wash., where they conducted urban combat training in the past. After having Marine Devil Dogs embedded in their ranks for the exercise, the two grunts were left with positive impressions.

“We’ve worked with ANGLICO and they’re professional, level-headed and well-trained,” said McLaren. His ‘brother’ echoed the sentiment, adding, “Yeah, (the Marines) are pretty decent compared to the other guys we’ve worked with.”

Even Dawe, their platoon commander, seconded the notion. “You’ve been a lot easier to deal with.”

Fair winds and following seas

At the sound of “End-Ex!,” sighs of relief rang out, weapons were unloaded and boots were unlaced. Battle-fatigued warriors from both sides of the border spoke of liberty plans and reminisced over lessons learned. A formation was held and ceremonial plaques were exchanged, hands were shaken and salutes rendered.

Sometimes, though, the most meaningful words are not addressed to troops in formation. When sitting on his cot, reeking of carbon, sweat and rations, Dawe took a deep breath and spoke from his heart on behalf of his unit and country.

“We are extremely grateful. We thank the MEU and the U.S. Marines," he added. “This company is now the best trained in Canada.”

For more information about the Fighting 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, visit the unit’s Web site at www.usmc.mil/13thmeu