US – Sri Lanka Marine personnel conduct joint training exercises
 

The Whidbey Island-Class Dock Landing Ship of the United States Navy, USS ‘Comstock’ arrived at the Port of Colombo on a four day training visit yesterday (27). Commencing a series of activities, the SLN Marines and medical personnel engaged in several joint training exercises today (28), partnering with the Marines onboard USS ‘Comstock’.

Marine personnel from both countries gave a healthy start to the proceedings of the day engaging in morning physical exercises at the Colombo harbour premises. Subsequently, the US Marines made a brief introduction to the craft and vehicles boarded on USS ‘Comstock’ for mission purposes. An awareness programme on ‘unarmed combat’ was also conducted on this occasion.

 Moreover, the SLN Maries were imparted comprehensive knowledge on weapon handling and weapon drills by their US counterparts. They were also given further insight into the combat movement techniques during this programme. The training programme was attended by 05 officers and 146 sailors belonging to the SLN Marine Battalion.

In parallel with these activities, the medical personnel attached to the US Marine Corps carried out an awareness programme as to how the people who sustain injuries are treated. The programme was conducted at the Naval Hospital, Colombo and it was participated by 25 medical personnel of the Sri Lanka Navy.

Apart from the joint training and subject matter expert exchange programme, the US Marine personnel also involved in a couple of community service programmes in Colombo area. As part of this initiative, they carried out cleaning work and colour washing at the school for the deaf in Golumadama, Rathmalana.

The US-Sri Lanka marine personnel are expected to be involved in several subject matter expert exchange programmes until 30^th of this month and the USS ‘Comstock’ is scheduled to leave Colombo harbour on the following day.