III MEF has played a significant role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions throughout the region . The MEF assisted the relief efforts led by the Government of Japan during Operation Tomodachi after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami . III MEF also conducted HA/DR missions in Thailand in October 2011 , the Philippines in October 2010 , and Indonesia in October 2009 . Most recently in response to the resulting humanitarian crisis from Typhoon Haiyan which struck the Philippines in 2013 , III MEF activated as Joint Task Force 505 to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in support of the Philippine government . More than 2,495 tons of relief supplies were delivered , and over 21,000 people were evacuated
2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami
2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami
III Marine Expeditionary Force