FREJUS, France -- On May 22, United States Marines of 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division participated in a training exhibition with the French 21st Marine Infantry Regiment in Frejus, France.
“This is a great opportunity,” said Col. Roger Turner, commanding officer 5th Marine Regiment. “They’ve been gracious hosts during the time that we’ve been here, and have been able to show us a lot of their capabilities as well as their organization.”
The Marines learned about French weapons systems, including the FAMAS G2 assault rifle. Afterward, they were given the opportunity to fire the weapons on a French military operated rifle range. They also used kayaks to venture into the Mediterranean Sea, providing the Marines with an opportunity to learn about the French Marine’s reconnaissance tactics.
“I think as we move forward from here, our interest is in working together,” Turner, a native of Laurel, Md., said. “Now that we have reduced forces in Afghanistan, re-establishing our relationships in the Mediterranean (Sea) is the key to America’s future success.”
After completing the day’s events, the Marines returned to have dinner with their French counterparts and plan for the days of training ahead.