One of the benefits of our Photo Of The Day is that you can travel the world without a sweat. Today we’re in Curaçao, an island in the southern Caribbean Sea, located off the coast of Venezuela. You see a beach reconnaissance team member from the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps, as he helps secure a beach during a demonstration for sailors from Riverine Squadron.
Curaçao is one of the constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and has its own government, responsible for most internal affairs. The island is known for its pristine beaches, blue waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Curacao is also renowned for its historic capital city, Willemstad, which features a blend of Dutch and Caribbean architectural styles.
The Royal Netherlands Marine Corps (Korps Mariniers in Dutch) is the amphibious force of the Dutch military. It is a special forces unit and is part of the Netherlands Marine Corps and Naval Warfare Branch. The Korps Mariniers have a long history, tracing their roots back to the Dutch East Indies in the 17th century. Today, they are one of the most highly trained and well-equipped special forces units in the world.
The main tasks of the Korps Mariniers include amphibious warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance. They are trained to operate in a variety of environments, including the sea, land, and air. The Korps Mariniers are also trained in marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat, and urban warfare.
Sailors from Riverine Squadron 3 prepare to board small boats during a stern touch and go exercise aboard the Royal Netherlands ship HNLMS Pelikaan, June 28. Sailors from RIVRON 3 are cross-training with elements of the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps and navy for a three-week training course designed to familiarize U.S. Navy Riverines with Dutch ship to shore amphibious operations.
A Dutch Marine, right, from the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps directs sailors from Riverine Squadron 3 during a come along side maneuver with the Royal Netherlands ship HNLMS Pelikaan.
A beach reconnaissance team from the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps
The beach party seems to be over!
Photos by Petty Officer 2nd Class Paul D. Williams, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.