The United States Marine Corps (USMC) in coordination with the FBI
anticipates conducting a Realistic Urban Training Exercise (RUT) in and
around Blackstone, Chatham, Danville, Fork Union, Martinsville and
South Boston, Virginia from October 31 through November 15, 2007.
This training evolution involves approximately 700 Marines and Sailors
from the Second Marine Expeditionary Force’s (II MEF), 24th Marine
Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. 
These Marines and Sailors will operate from Fort Pickett, Blackstone,
Virginia during the exercise.
The purpose of RUT is to enhance the 24 MEU’s capability to conduct
Special Operations missions in a realistic urban environment prior to
their deployment overseas in support of the War on Terrorism.
Elements of the 24 MEU receiving this training include the Marine
Special Operations Command, the Forward Command Element, the Air Combat
Element and support combat companies.  This training also provides an
opportunity for the 24 MEU to advertise the Marine Corps to local
residents (including possible visits to high schools and other venues).