Charlie Co Maintains Rifle Proficiency Aboard USS Somerset [Image 1 of 9]

The image depicts U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Joey Hooks, a rifleman from Charlie Company, Battalion Landing Team 15 (BLT 15), which is part of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), as he fires an M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) during a live-fire training event aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD-25) in the South China Sea on April 10, 2024. The USS Somerset, along with the embarked elements of the 15th MEU, were conducting routine operations in the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet area of operations.

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet is the largest forward-deployed numbered fleet in the U.S. Pacific Fleet. It is based in Japan and is responsible for maintaining the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. The fleet routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in the region to promote peace, security, and prosperity.

Charlie Company, BLT 15 is one of the ground combat elements of the 15th MEU. The MEU is a versatile force that can respond to a variety of crisis situations, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and contingency operations. The Marines in the MEU undergo rigorous training to maintain their combat readiness and proficiency in various weapons systems, including the M27 IAR.

The M27 IAR is a squad automatic weapon that fires the 7.62mm NATO cartridge. It is designed to provide sustained suppressive fire and mobility for infantry squads. The weapon is lighter and more accurate than its predecessor, the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), and is easier for Marines to carry during long-range patrols and amphibious operations.

The live-fire training event aboard the USS Somerset was an essential part of the Marines' training schedule to ensure they remain proficient in the use of their weapons systems and maintain their combat readiness. The training also allowed the Marines to familiarize themselves with the unique challenges of operating aboard a ship at sea.

In summary, the image shows U.S. Marines from Charlie Company, BLT 15, conducting live-fire training with the M27 IAR aboard the USS Somerset in the South China Sea as part of their routine operations in the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet area of operations. The training is essential for the Marines to maintain their combat readiness and proficiency in the use of their weapons systems. The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet is responsible for maintaining security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in the area.