America amphibious ready group ships complete CERTEX

Ships from the U.S. Navy’s America amphibious ready group (ARG) and the 15th marine expeditionary unit (MEU) recently completed their 17-day certification exercise (CERTEX), qualifying them for their upcoming Western Pacific deployment, June 16.

The America ARG is comprised of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and marines assigned to the 15th MEU.

As the final integrated-training event for the America ARG and 15th MEU, CERTEX is a comprehensive, complex training evolution that combines the Navy and Marine Corps maritime and sea-to-shore capabilities.

Following successful completion of amphibious squadron (PHIBRON)-MEU integrated training (PMINT) in April and composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) in May, CERTEX rounds out the required three evolutions necessary to prepare for deployment.

“I’m confident that [America ARG] will sail on deployment next month and do our nation’s bidding and if called upon, you will unleash the full power of your military might, and nothing will stop you,” said Rear Adm. Ross Myers, commander, Carrier Strike Group 15 (CSG 15).

More than 1,800 Sailors and 2,600 Marines are assigned to the ARG and 15th MEU in preparation for the ARG’s deployment later this year.