More than 40 Cameroonian Marine Corps leaders participated in a five-day event conducted by U.S. Marines and sponsored by the U.S. Africa Command from June 9 - 13, 2008, during which they reviewed tactics, techniques, and procedures for securing the border between Cameroon and Nigeria.

The event provided U.S. and Cameroonian Marines the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with one another and to practice the light marine infantry tactics necessary to execute small unit reconnaissance and patrolling.

Training was tailored to meet the specific needs of the Cameroonian Marines, who face a number of challenges due to the swampy, riverine environment of the Bakissi Peninsula, which makes border patrol difficult. After spending several months in the region, U.S. Marines were able to gain an understanding of the local environment and develop recommendations for improving border patrol capabilities.

A variety of topics were addressed, including patrolling and security; organizing for a patrol mission; reconnaissance and security mission standards; departure and re-entry of patrols; patrol equipment; and patrol debriefing techniques.

According to Major John Kerwood, the event has helped to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Cameroonian militaries. He said that this training course was the "first event of many."