Readiness

Marines and Sailors of the USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), participate in a memorial ceremony in remembrance of the events of Sept. 11, 2001, while underway during exercise UNITAS LXIII, off the coast of Brazil, Sept. 11, 2022. Several 1st Class Petty Officers organized and led the event to recognize those who were lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and afforded the service members time to reflect on their service and patriotism. For the last 63 years, UNITAS has developed and sustained relationships that improve the capacity of our reemerging and enduring maritime partners to achieve common objectives. Additionally, the military-to-military exchanges foster mutual cooperation and understanding among participating navies and marine corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Maj. Jeremy Wheeler)