File:US, South Korean generals command Marine forces from sea 130825-N-NN332-024.jpg

English: Lt. Gen. John Wissler, commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force, speaks with Marines embarked aboard USS Blue Ridge Aug. 25, during Exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian 2013. Wissler came aboard the USS Blue Ridge in his role as commander of the Combined Marine Component Command, Combined Forces Command, for the exercise. The CMCC incorporates Marine Corps and selected naval forces of the U.S. and the Republic of Korea, as well as sending states’ amphibious forces, under one organization established in the event of a crisis on the Korean peninsula. Thousands of III MEF Marines and sailors have spent countless hours preparing for UFG in anticipation of showcasing Navy-Marine Corps amphibious capability and building relationships with their U.S. joint partners, and most importantly their Republic of Korea brothers-in-arms. Other service members with III MEF are participating in UFG from multiple locations across Japan and the Republic of Korea, as well as sending states, including a French battalion landing team cell. UFG is executed in support of the Republic of Korea and U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty signed on Oct. 1, 1953. This exercise furthers military training and enhances the Republic of Korea military’s abilities to take the lead of the combined defense of the Republic of Korea in 2015.