 In 1983, the 31st MEU was recalled from a combined exercise with local forces in Kenya, and positioned in the Mediterranean Sea.Its mission from September to October 1983 was to support the Multinational U.S. peacekeeping forces in Beirut during an intense period of complex political and life-threatening conditions in Lebanon.They took over the command operations after their sister unit (24th MEU) was attacked in the Beirut bombing.