Video source: CBS News
A massive search is underway for eight missing Marines after a training exercise involving the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group went awry near San Clemente Island off the California coast.
One Marine is dead and two others are injured and have been transported to hospitals.
16 people were aboard an amphibious assault vehicle when it began taking on water Thursday evening. All of the missing Marines are assigned to the 15th MEU at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, the largest US Marine base on the West Coast.
The search involves a Navy destroyer and several smaller boats, a Coast Guard cutter, three Navy helicopters and a Coast Guard helicopter.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. I ask that you keep our Marines, Sailors, and their families in your prayers as we continue our search,” said Col. Christopher Bronzi, 15th MEU Commanding Officer.
— I MEF (@1stMEF) July 31, 2020
MEUs are the Marines’ versatile, fast-response type of air-ground attack force, forward-deployed and often the first to arrive at the scene of a crisis.
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Source: Equities News
