Service members assigned to the III Marine Expeditionary Force flood relief command element gathered for an initial meeting with senior leaders for an overview of what to expect during their flood relief operations with the Royal Thai Government here Nov. 15.
Directed by the U.S. Pacific Command, III MEF deployed Marines and sailors to conduct flood relief assessment and to execute specific tasks associated with disaster mitigation – which may include providing follow-on service members and capabilities. The command element is responsible for providing the command and control of U.S. forces working with and assisting the Thai government.
“The relationship we have with the Thai government is extremely important,” said Brig. Gen. Craig C. Crenshaw, commander, III MEF flood relief command element.
“We are here to assist, and we’re going to assist, in any manner that is appropriate that the Thai government asks of us.”
The initial brief allowed senior leaders to reiterate the mission and commander’s intent.
“It’s very important we establish who is who and what our big mission is,” said Sgt. Maj. Lawrence P. Fineran, command element sergeant major. “We are here to assess what’s going on and ensure we’re ready when called upon for any follow-on missions.”
During the overview, Crenshaw expressed to service members the importance of their role during the operation and explained how vital each skill set is.
“I believe we have all the right skill sets here to make this operation successful,” said Crenshaw. “The challenge is being able to mold that together and put each individual in the right focus area.”
A few of the command element’s responsibilities are to conduct medical and engineering assessments and to assess flooded areas in coordination with the Royal Thai Government.
The command element is composed of joint U.S. forces in various fields of expertise to provide command and control of additional U.S. forces.
“At the end of this operation we’re going to say that we were successful in assisting the Thai government,” said Crenshaw.