KUWAIT -- A phase of bilateral training was recently conducted at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait.
The purpose of this segment of training was to test the embassy’s internal defense standard operating procedures as well as the host-nation reaction forces, said Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Charles Hudson, Chief Office of Military Cooperation - Kuwait.
“This was the largest training event that I know of, to take place at any U.S. Embassy,” said Hudson. “The participation with the host-nation’s military is a unique opportunity.”
Marine Corps’ Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team partook in the drill, which was coordinated by the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy Kuwait’s Regional Security Office.
FAST is a special unit of the Fleet Marine Corps Force, stationed in Norfolk, Va. The unit has several platoons deployed in various locations around the world. Their primary responsibility is to reinforce U.S. embassies in a time of crisis. According to Hudson, they are strategically placed so they can be anywhere in their area of responsibility within hours.
According to FAST Platoon Commander Capt. Bobby Lee, the unit is primarily called upon to protect embassies. However, FAST is also utilized to defend a variety of vital U.S. assets, such as nuclear submarines during refueling, cargo ships against pirates and performing guard duty at missile silos.
“We are prepared for most situations,” said Lee. “However, the sight of Marines in and around an embassy acts more as a visual deterrent to the enemy.”
The Kuwaiti National Guard was the local participant in the exercise.
“The KNG came in very professional and knowledgeable in their tactics,” said Lee, a Corpus Christi, Texas, native.
The embassy assault lasted about two hours and ended with a large fire fight between the opposition and friendly forces, utilizing blank ammunition.
“It was fun,” said Lance Cpl. Zane A. Woodard, infantryman, FAST, and a Ringgold, Ga., native. It was also interesting to see how the military of another country operates.”
In addition to the mock attack on the embassy, FAST Marines will be conducting an extensive week-long bilateral training with the KNG.
“Both FAST and the (KNG) did a fantastic job today,” said Diplomatic Security Special Agent Mark Sullo, exercise coordinator. “However, the bilateral training following today’s assault on the embassy is the heart of this entire event. The exercise will go a long way toward solidifying and building upon the already strong and strategic relationship that the U.S. government enjoys with Kuwait,” he said.