The Top Ender Magazine October November 2020 Edition

Regulars – Explore the NT
Feature
Ninth Iteration of Marine Rotational
Force–Darwin Strengthens Alliance
Marine Rotational Force–Darwin has completed its ninth successful
rotation to the Northern Territory. While the arrival of
COVID-19 modified the planned rotation, the fact that it was able
to proceed during these unprecedented times is a testament to the
US–Australian alliance.
While MRF-D is a tangible demonstration of our strong relationship
with Australia today, our alliance extends back much further; nearly 100
years ago to World War I.
Recently, the MRF-D Commanding Officer Colonel David Banning,
addressed our extended history at a ceremony commemorating the conclusion
of World War II. Banning mentioned the inclusion of US troops
into Australian families and the development of strong bonds both in
professional and personal relationships.
As American families said goodbye to their sons, little did they know
that on the other side of the world their children would be welcomed with
open arms by “the wonderful people of Australia, many of whom became
surrogate families to thousands of young boys with funny accents who
didn’t like Vegemite or know what a chook was,” stated Banning.
The relationship forged extends deep into the hearts of modern-day
Marines. These long-established ties allowed this year’s MRF-D rotation to
succeed despite the uncertainty in the operating environment.
MRF-D efficiently executed a modified training plan through close
coordination with our Australian Defence Force counterparts. Marines
of MRF-D increased their capabilities and explored new concepts in line
with the Marine Corps Commandant General David H Berger’s Planning
Guidance which seeks to make Marines “first on the scene, first to help,
first to contain a brewing crisis, and first to fight if required to do so.”
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