Marines with the Communication's Section, Command Element,

Marines with the Communication's Section, Command Element, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit wait to be transported back to the USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) on Onslow Beach, Dec. 19. Transportation to and from the beach is part of the daily grind for Marines and sailors of 24th MEU and Amphibious Squadron 8 (PHIBRON 8). 24th MEU is wrapping up a three-week exercise called Composite Training Unit Exercise where they were embarked aboard USS Iwo Jima, USS New York and USS Gunston Hall. The training was focused on developing cohesion between the 24th MEU and PHIBRON 8 in conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations while operating from the sea.