 Leaders from the Marine Corps and naval inventories of 15 different countries gathered in Lima, Peru to take part in MLAC 2011 Since 2001 MLAC has offered a venue to increase engagement between the Marine leaders of the Western Hemisphere We the combined leadership of nearly all the Marine forces of North Central and South America Have a significant opportunity to set the example for all other Marines to share and to learn from each other's experiences In dealing with and defeating common threats. Although the leaders spoke different languages and had different backgrounds Their similarities were more evident than their differences here in Lima. We'll be a great opportunity to share ideas Knowledge and experiences as brother Marines. We are all naval infantry with a maritime tradition warrior ethos And ethos that binds us together as brothers this year's conference was co-hosted by Peru and the United States Our nation welcomes you all with much affection with the hope that by the end of this conference The conclusions we've reached serve to consolidate the relationships that our countries have developed in the past In order to procure a better future for our nation Reporting from Lima, Peru Marine Corporal J. Nava