< ! -- Deleted image removed : The 31st MEU was split into three separate parts on 11 March 2011 , the day of the 9.0 earthquake and tsunami . The largest ship , , with most of the Marines and Sailors of the 31st MEU aboard , had just completed an exercise in Cambodia and had arrived in Malaysia for a port visit . When 31st MEU leadership received news of the tsunami , they initiated an immediate recall of all personnel who were away from the ship on liberty . The ship quickly took on some supplies , and in less than 24 hours was underway to Japan where it would meet up with and
earthquake and tsunami
2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami
31st Marine Expeditionary Unit