WHITE BEACH NAVAL BASE, Okinawa, Japan - During the week of Jan. 20, soldiers from the 10th Regional Support Group supported port operation during the second phase of Pacific Utilities and Logistics Support Enablers - Watercraft, dubbed PULSE-W, at White Beach Naval Base, Okinawa, Japan.
Planned and managed by the 8th Theater Sustainment Command with assistance from the 10th Regional Support Group, two landing craft utility ships were activated from U.S. Army prepositioned stocks in Japan. The watercraft will enhance contingency sealift capabilities in the Far East and greatly reduce transportation costs for exercises like Cobra Gold in Thailand and Balikitan in the Philippines. This mission will assess the feasibility of Army watercraft systems throughout the Pacific area of operation.
During port operations Jan. 23 and 24, soldiers from the 10th RSG took on various roles to assist in the exercise.
"The 10th RSG, along with elements from the 97th Transportation Company and other supporting agencies, executed load out of equipment and supplies to support Cobra Gold 14. PULSE-W represents a vital component for the adapting role of United States Army Pacific in supporting the rebalance of the Pacific," explained, Capt. Matthew Kotowski, support operations manager, 10th RSG.
During port operations, 31 containers along with Marine Corps, mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle, referred to as HMMWVs and other related assets were loaded onto the two LCUs.
Soldiers from the Japanese Ground Self Defense Forces also took the opportunity to view the port operations phase gaining insight into the mission and complexities of loading equipment and supplies onto watercraft. This serves to enhance bilateral relationships with our Japanese counterparts.
The capabilities used during PULSE-W enable interoperability, enhance military-to-military relations and elevate combined combat capabilities, all contributing to the joint training environment necessary in the Pacific region.
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