The Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group - homeport San Diego - and the Camp Pendleton-based 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived in Hong Kong on Monday for a port visit.
15th MEU commanding officer Col. Scott Campbell said of the visit:
"Hong Kong is a favorite port call, and we look forward to enjoying a friendly visit that affords our Marines and Sailors the opportunity to experience the city's culture and heritage. We appreciate the interest, opportunities and events offered by the citizens of Hong Kong."
However, The South China Morning Post is reporting that the visit has a "hint of Korean tension." The paper quoted Capt. Shawn Lobree, commander of Amphibious Squadron Three, as saying that while there is no connection between the previously scheduled port visit and tensions in North Korea...
"We maintain readiness and preparedness to conduct any mission that may come our way. We are always ready."
(VideoLandmarks posted footage on YouTube of the Peleliu ARG arriving in Hong Kong and of Lobree's remarks. You'll find that video up top.)
The Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group relinquished its duties in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility to the Kearsarge ARG on April 4.
The Peleliu ARG is made up of the the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu, the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay, amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore, and the 15th MEU.
