Pohang-si, South Korea - August 25, 2024

On August 25, 2024, U.S. Marines from Alpha Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/5, part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, demonstrated their amphibious prowess by conducting a shore to ship movement operation during the multinational exercise Ssang Yong 24. The operation, which took place in the coastal waters of Pohang, involved the use of both amphibious combat vehicles (ACVs) and an amphibious assault vehicle (AAV) to board the USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), an amphibious dock landing ship.

The exercise, known as Ssang Yong 24, is a pivotal event that underscores the robust military alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United States. This year's iteration of the exercise focuses on bolstering combined amphibious operations, a critical component in the defense strategy for the Korean Peninsula.

The Marines' movement from shore to the USS Harpers Ferry is more than just a logistical exercise; it represents a strategic display of readiness and interoperability between the two nations' forces. The operation involved navigating through challenging coastal conditions, showcasing the adaptability and tactical acumen of the Marine unit.