A Light Amphibious Reconnaissance Craft filled with U.S. sailors, Marines and Russian media departs the shores of a mock disaster area for a U.S. landing craft during Exercise Cooperation From the Sea '96 near Vladivostok, Russia, on Aug. 14, 1996. The simulated disaster area was designed for Russian and U.S. medical personnel and Marines to conduct joint relief efforts to a small community struck by natural disaster. The purpose of the exercise is to improve interoperability with Russian military forces in conducting disaster relief and humanitarian missions. Personnel exchanges and training will promote cooperation and understanding between the U.S. and Russian Federation Naval Forces.