HIJUDAI MANEUVER AREA, Oita prefecture, Japan -- More than 300 Marines and sailors departed Okinawa to take part in Exercise Forest Light 12-01 at the Hijudai Maneuver Area, Oita prefecture, Japan, Aug. 17.

Forest Light is a semiannual, bilateral training exercise, which will see participation from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force; Combat Assault Battalion; and 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. The exercise is designed to enhance the U.S.–Japan military partnership, strengthen regional security, and improve individual and unit-level skills in a bilateral environment. Both CAB and 3rd Marines are with 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force. 2nd Bn., 3rd Marines, is currently deployed to Okinawa under the unit deployment program.

"At Exercise Forest Light we'll be conducting a medical training exchange, joint live-fire exercises and light-mechanized exercises using assault amphibious vehicles while Marines with 2nd Battalion will be conducting the martial arts exchange with the JGSDF," said Capt. Michael A. Walsh, the company commander of Headquarters and Service Company, CAB. "The purpose of this exercise is to focus on interoperability and joint relations between the U.S. Marine Corps and the JGSDF."

Many Marines are looking forward to conducting the training with the JGSDF's 41st Infantry Regiment during the exercise, according to Lance Cpl. Shawn G. Wozniak, a data network specialist with CAB.

During the exchange, JGSDF personnel will demonstrate judo, kindo and jukindo techniques, and Marines will showcase techniques from the Marine Corps martial arts program.

"I am looking forward to training with the JGSDF and exchanging martial arts techniques," said Wozniak. "It is a good way for us to come together, learn new things, and build our relationship."

The teamwork and dedication is intended to provide the best possible training environment within operational and training requirements for everyone involved.

According to Walsh, the bilateral training will provide service members with a long-lasting experience from working alongside the JGSDF personnel.

Forest Light began Aug. 19 and concludes Aug. 30.