Soldiers from the Japan Ground Self Defense and U.S.

Soldiers from the Japan Ground Self Defense and U.S. Marines and sailors ride on combat rubber raiding crafts during small boat operations as part of the Japan Observer Exchange Program at Kin Blue beach here, July 16. The soldiers are with JGSDF’s Western Army and the Marines and sailors are with Company L, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. The JGSDF soldiers have been observing L Co. for approximately six weeks. JOEP enables the JGSDF observation and education of small unit concepts, tactics, and amphibious operations to further enhance the interoperability of the two forces and security of the region. (U.S. Marine Photo by Cpl. Henry Antenor)