Operation Mojave Falcon trains soldiers to support large-scale deployments

The U.S. Army Reserve is partnering with the Port of Long Beach and the U.S. Coast Guard this week to conduct a critical joint port operations training exercise, which began on Monday and will continue through June 9 in the Long Beach Harbor District.

Known as Operation Mojave Falcon, the endeavor – the Army Reserve’s largest training exercise ever – involves more than 9,000 soldiers at locations across the country, including more than 500 at the Port. It is designed to enhance the ability of the U.S. Army part-time reserve force to support large-scale combat operations and show its agility and commitment to national defense.

“This incredible partnership demonstrates the unmatched strength and unity between the U.S. Army Reserve, the Port of Long Beach, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the City of Long Beach,” said Maj: Gen. Dianne M. Del Rosso, the commander of the 79th Theater Sustainment Command. “Training in a complex, real-world environment like we have here ensures our soldiers are ready for any mission, anytime, anywhere. This partnership is not just about logistics — it’s about forging joint readiness when it comes to large-scale combat operations and reinforcing the bonds that keep our nation strong.”

“The Port of Long Beach moves the nation’s cargo, and through the first part of this year, we’re the busiest seaport in the United States,” said Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero. “Our facilities are the civilian economy in motion, but they also fulfill a role in national defense, supporting force deployment during contingencies and emergencies. We would like the public to know that during this exercise, disruptions in the harbor will be minimal – if they exist at all – and cargo will continue to flow smoothly.”

City officials voiced their support for the exercise, noting the heritage of Long Beach as the longtime location of a naval base and defense partner.

“For most of the 20th century, Long Beach was a Navy town, with deep connections to the nation’s military,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. “We proudly hold onto this legacy even today, and we are pleased to partner with the Army Reserve and Coast Guard on Operation Mojave Falcon and help hone the military’s ability to respond to future challenges.”

“Though our everyday business is serving as an economic engine, the Port of Long Beach is also one of 18 commercial strategic seaports in the United States,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Bonnie Lowenthal. “We take our responsibility to assist our service members in their training very seriously, and we are honored to host part of this important exercise.”

In addition to providing important experience for Army Reserve soldiers and Coast Guard personnel, Operation Mojave Falcon will help ensure Port staff are trained to support a real-world military deployment. Port of Long Beach employees will play a critical role in the exercise by providing facilities, security, logistical support and the capabilities at the Port’s security hub, the Joint Command and Control Center.