U.S. Navy Beach Masters from Beach Master Unit One direct an arriving landing craft to the landing zone at Narathiwat, Thailand, on May 5, 1996, during a phase of Exercise Cobra Gold '96. Cobra Gold '96 is the latest in a continuing series of U.S. /Thai military exercises designed to ensure regional peace and strengthen the ability of the Royal Thai Armed Forces to defend Thailand. Approximately 9,000 U.S. and 10,000 Thai personnel are participating in the exercise.