US Marine Corps troops have been engaged in military training exercises with the Sri Lankan navy in Trincomalee, after the arrival of the US Naval Ship “USS Somerset” this week.
The Sri Lankan navy said that 7 officers and 150 sailors had undertaken the exercise with over 150 US Marines participating.
“The military exchange will focus on enhancing relationships between the two naval services, and honing basic military skills and small boat operations that could support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions,” said the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs.
"We look forward to working alongside the Sri Lankan marines, and sharing the characteristics and ethos of our Marine Corps," said Col. Clay C. Tipton, commanding officer, 11th MEU. "Simply put, U.S. Marines are known for taking care of their own, demonstrating a bias for action, and having an unwavering devotion to mission accomplishment."
"Any time we can work and train with partner and allied militaries, it lays a foundation for future cooperation," said Capt. Darren Glaser, Somerset's commanding officer. "These engagements build the relationships and trust needed for cooperative responses to regional crises."