Ruiz Observes Large-Scale Military Simulation at Twentynine Palms Marine Base

Palm Desert, CA – Today, Representative Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-36) visited the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms to observe their large-scale military operations simulation and to meet with high-level Marine Corps officials to discuss their work to protect Americans abroad and at home.

“The safety and security of my constituents abroad and at home is my priority. Observing the large-scale, combat simulation at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms gave me critical insight into the conditions our troops face and a chance to discuss with Marine Corps leaders what support they need to fight terrorism and keep Americans safe," said Dr. Ruiz.

“Twentynine Palms offers thousands of Marines and military personnel important and unique trainings that prepare them to adapt to the changing conditions they experience on the battlefield in order to best protect our country,” said Dr. Ruiz. “I am proud of our Marines and thank them for their service to keep the American people safe.”

“It’s great to have a Congressman visit anytime, but in particular, a Congressman from the area here. We can talk about the issues that we face in the base here, and he wanted more questions, he asked us how we can help, and it’s just great to have that kind of attention, and to be able to sit down and talk to him, and let him see what kind of things we deal with on a daily basis,” said General William F. Mullen III.

Nearly 3,000 marines and sailors participated in Thursday’s simulations on the ground, in remote locations around the center, and in simulated command centers. This training is the largest scale exercise conducted by Marine Corps personnel and included live fire training of realistic scenarios.

Twentynine Palms is the largest Marine Corps base in the world and employs thousands of Americans, many of whom settle in the 36th Congressional District when they leave the service. The base offers arms training programs in order to support and elevate combat readiness as part of the Marine Corps’ commitment to national security.

###