About this Unit
Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Atlantic (EWTGLANT), based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, was established to provide advanced training and education in expeditionary warfare to Navy and Marine Corps personnel. Originating in the post-World War II era, the unit has evolved to meet the changing demands of amphibious and littoral operations. EWTGLANT plays a crucial role in preparing forces for joint and combined operations through courses in naval gunfire, close air support, and amphibious planning. Over the decades, the unit has supported every major U.S. expeditionary campaign on the Atlantic side, ensuring readiness and tactical proficiency for deploying forces.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic (EWTGLANT) was established in 1962 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, to provide specialized amphibious and expeditionary warfare training for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and allied forces.
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Legacy of Training: EWTGLANT has trained tens of thousands of service members, playing a crucial role in preparing forces for major conflicts, including Vietnam, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Unique Facilities: The command boasts advanced simulation centers, mock shipboard structures, and live-fire ranges, enabling realistic training for boarding operations, ship defense, and amphibious assaults.
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International Partnerships: EWTGLANT routinely hosts and trains foreign military personnel, strengthening alliances with NATO and partner nations through joint courses and exercises.
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Expeditionary Focus: The unit specializes in expeditionary warfare, including tactics for amphibious assaults, naval gunfire support, mine warfare, and coastal riverine operations.
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Historic Operations: Many graduates of EWTGLANT took part in notable military operations, such as the 1983 Grenada invasion (Operation Urgent Fury) and the 2003 Iraq invasion.
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Cutting-Edge Curriculum: EWTGLANT continuously updates its curriculum to incorporate lessons learned from ongoing global conflicts, emerging technologies, and evolving threats.
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Naval Gunfire Liaison: The unit is a premier provider of Naval Gunfire Support (NGFS) training, qualifying Forward Observers who direct naval fire in support of ground forces.
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Specialty Schools: EWTGLANT runs specialized courses, including the Expeditionary Warfare School, Combat Skills Training, and Joint Fires Observer courses.
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Community Impact: Located in Virginia Beach, EWTGLANT actively engages with the local community through outreach programs, STEM events, and veteran support initiatives.
