(cache) Photos from the Fleet at U.S. Naval Forces Central Command

Photos from the Fleet - 2006

USCG Boarding Teams Conduct Security Operations in Gulf of Aden

A boarding team from USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726) queries a commercial vessel Dec. 28 in the Gulf of Aden as part of ongoing Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the area. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, has been deployed since September in support of Combined Task Force (CTF)150. Midgett is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting CTF 150, which conducts MSO in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.

USCGC Midgett Carries Out Gulf of Aden Maritime Security Operations

Petty Officer 2nd Class Rich Cleaves, a yeoman aboard USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726), keeps a sharp watch as Midgett's boarding team queries a commercial vessel Dec. 28 in the Gulf of Aden. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.

IKE Sailors Experience Culture of Jebel Ali, Dubai

Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Carl Johnson and Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Carlos Morales from the "Pukin' Dogs" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 remove a fuel cell from an F/A-18E Super Hornet aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are on a regularly scheduled deployment currently operating in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

Machinist's Mate Fireman Maribel Baez, a Sailor from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), looks at carpets at Friday Market in Fujairah during a Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tour. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are on a regularly scheduled deployment currently operating in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

Machinist's Mate Fireman Maribel Baez, a Sailor from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), looks at a description of the Al Bidya Mosque near Fujairah during a Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tour. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are on a regularly scheduled deployment currently operating in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

Sailors from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) eat lunch near Jebel Ali during a Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tour. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are on a regularly scheduled deployment currently operating in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

Overseas Boarding Operation

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Daly, a Boatswain's Mate aboard Midgett, keeps an eye on his shipmates during a vessel of interest boarding in the Arabian Sea. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter has been deployed to the region since September in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Enduring Freedom. Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Mariana O'Leary.

Overseas Boarding Operation

Loading Stores

Chief Warrant Officer David Patton, Master Chief Petty Officer Arthur Petty, and Chief Petty Officer Matthew Garcia load stores aboard USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726) during a refueling and replenishment at sea with the USNS Laramie (T-AO 203). Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, has been deployed to the region since September in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Enduring Freedom. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Mariana O'Leary.

CNO, MCPON Visit Naval Support Activity Bahrain

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen addresses Sailors and Marines on board Naval Support Activity Bahrain during a holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command area of operations (AOO). During their stop in Bahrain, the CNO and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Joe R. Campa Jr. addressed Sailors' issues and expressed gratitude for the Sailors’ service during an all hands call. more

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa Jr.addresses Sailors and Marines on board Naval Support Activity Bahrain during a holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command area of operations (AOO). During their stop in Bahrain, MCPON and the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen addressed Sailors' issues and expressed gratitude for the Sailors’ service during an all hands call. more

Boxer Sailor Speaks To President Bush on Christmas Eve

Arabian Gulf (Dec. 24, 2006) - Amphibious assault ship USS Boxer's (LHD 4) Aviation Boatswain's Mate Fuels 3rd Class (AW/SW) Rahim Panjwani speaks with the President of the United States George W. Bush on Christmas Eve. The president wished the Boxer crew a merry Christmas and thanked them for their service, hard work and dedication. Boxer is conducting Maritime Security Operations in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability and protect Iraq's sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

CNO Visits USS Eisenhower

Persian Gulf (Dec. 21, 2006) - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen talks to crewmembers aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Eisenhower and embarked Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) are on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations and the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Laura Thuman more

Chief of Naval Operations Visits USS Boxer

USS BOXER, At sea (Dec. 21, 2006) - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Adm. Mike Mullen speaks to USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors during an All Hands call. The CNO visited Boxer to meet with Sailors conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) during the holiday season. Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group which is currently operating in the Arabian Gulf conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability and protect Iraq's sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

USS BOXER, At sea (Dec. 21, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa Jr. speaks with USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors during a tour of the ship. The MCPON visited Boxer to meet with Sailors conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) during the holiday season. Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group which is currently operating in the Arabian Gulf conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability and protect Iraq's sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

USS BOXER, At sea (Dec. 21, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa Jr. greets USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors during a tour of the ship. The MCPON visited Boxer to meet with Sailors conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) during the holiday season. Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group which is currently operating in the Arabian Gulf conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability and protect Iraq's sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

NAVCENT Delivers Holiday Cheer to U.S. Sailors in Southwest Asia

SOUTHWEST ASIA (December 12, 2006)- U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Pete Yeschenko (left) and NAVCENT Force Chaplain Capt. Donald Lerow (center) hand a holiday gift box to an unsuspecting service member in Southwest Asia. Throughout the day NAVCENT personnel delivered more than 400 MWR-donated gift boxes and two white pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers to service members. more

SOUTHWEST ASIA (December 12, 2006)- Naval Support Activity Bahrain Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Gerald Provancha and two U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) personnel set up a Christmas tree in a hangar bay. Throughout the day NAVCENT personnel delivered more than 400 MWR-donated gift boxes and two white pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers to service members in Southwest Asia. more

Commodore Williams Visits French Ship

ABOARD CDT BIROT (F 796), Gulf of Aden - Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams, commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 is welcomed aboard French frigate CDT Birot (F 796) by French navy Lt. Cmdr. Guillaume Pinget, commanding officer of the ship, while in port Djibouti Dec. 12, 2006. Birot is currently conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea under the command of CTF 150. Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. CTF 150 established near the beginning of Operations Enduring Freedom, also conducts MSO in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Arrives in Arabian Gulf

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and OIF.more

Holiday Spirit Arrives in Horn of Africa

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Senior Chief Yeoman Shawn Newcoste (left), attached to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and a native of Lafayette, La., hands out holiday MWR gift boxes to service members Dec. 10. Senior leadership from NAVCENT and Navy Region Southwest Asia delivered more than 1,500 gift boxes to junior service members operating in the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. They also brought along eight white-pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers via the "Trees for Troops" program. Similar deliveries are scheduled for later this week as more gift boxes and trees are headed for Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries located in U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) headquarters Command Master Chief Buck Hickman (right) hands out Christmas gifts to service members Dec. 10. Senior leadership from NAVCENT and Navy Region Southwest Asia delivered more than 1,500 gift boxes to junior service members operating in the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. They also brought along eight white-pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers via the "Trees for Troops" program. Similar deliveries are scheduled for later this week as more gift boxes and trees are headed for Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries located in U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Senior Chief Yeoman Shawn Newcoste, from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), presents Electronics Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Herbert Matcke, an individual augmentee from USS George Washington (CVN 63), with an MWR gift box. Newcoste and other senior leadership from NAVCENT and Navy Region Southwest Asia brought 1,500 gift boxes to the Africa-based military installation, along with eight white-pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers via the "Trees for Troops" program. Similar deliveries will continue throughout the week as more gift boxes and Christmas trees are slated for delivery to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries inside the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Operations Specialist 2nd Class Clifford Stout, a native of Ottawa, Kan., opens an MWR gift box he received from visiting senior enlisted leadership from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and Navy Region Southwest Asia. More than 1,500 gift boxes were flown to the Africa-based military installation, as well as eight white-pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers via the "Trees for Troops" program. Similar deliveries will continue throughout the week as more gift boxes and Christmas trees are slated for delivery to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries inside the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Intelligence Technician 2nd Class (SW) Robert Walton, from Virginia Beach, Va. and currently serving as an individual augmentee, opens an MWR gift box he received during a holiday visit from senior leadership from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Navy Region Southwest Asia. More than 1,500 gift boxes and eight white-pine Christmas trees, donated by Indiana tree farmers through the 'Trees for Troops' program, were handed out to service members operating in the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. The contents of the boxes were donated by civilian vendors and boxed up by Sailors stationed in Bahrain. Similar shipments of boxes and trees will continue all week with deliveries scheduled for Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries inside the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Builder 3rd Class Larry Fairchild from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 and a native of Nederland, Colo., opens an MWR gift box he received during a holiday visit from senior enlisted leadership from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Navy Region Southwest Asia. More than 1,500 gift boxes and eight white-pine Christmas trees, donated by Indiana tree farmers through the "Trees for Troops" program, were handed out to service members operating in the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. The contents of the boxes were donated by civilian vendors and boxed up by Sailors stationed in Bahrain. Similar shipments of boxes and trees will continue all week with deliveries scheduled for Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries inside the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, DJIBOUTI (Dec.10, 2006) - Chief Builder (SCW) Philip Pawlowski hands an MWR gift box to Army Sgt. John Moates, from Fort Stewart, Ga. and currently attached to the 11th Bravo Infantry. Pawlowski and other senior leadership from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Navy Region Southwest Asia delivered more than 1,500 gift boxes to service members operating in the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility. They also brought along eight white-pine Christmas trees donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers via the "Trees for Troops" program. Similar deliveries are scheduled for later this week as more gift boxes and trees are headed for Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and other regional countries located in U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Lance Cpl. James Blackburn, attached to the 5th Provisional Security Company and a native of Clarendon, Texas, secures a Christmas tree inside its tree stand. The tree was donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers through the “Trees for Troops” program and delivered by senior enlisted leaders from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Navy Region Southwest Asia. A total of eight trees were delivered to service members stationed in Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa’s area of responsibility. The other trees will be transported to military camps located in various countries throughout Eastern Africa. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (Dec. 10, 2006) - Lance Cpl. Matt Ellis, attached to the 5th Provisional Security Company and a native of Amarillo, Texas, secures a Christmas tree inside its tree stand. The tree was donated by Indiana tree farmers and retailers through the “Trees for Troops” program and delivered by senior enlisted leaders from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Navy Region Southwest Asia. Eiight trees were delivered to service members stationed in Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa’s area of responsibility. The other trees will be transported to military camps located in various countries throughout Eastern Africa. more

USS Anzio and FS Var perform an underway replenishment

ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 4, 2006) - The guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) and the French FS Var (A 608) perform an underway replenishment. The ships also exchanged three officers for a day, giving them an opportunity to serve on a fellow coalition ship. Anzio is currently performing Maritime Security Operations as a part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group.

German Navy Completes Term as Commander, Task Force 150

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 6, 2006) – German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange, left, salutes Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams during the ceremony where Lange passed control of Combined Task Force 150 to Williams aboard HMCS Ottawa. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 6, 2006) –German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange, center, shakes hands with Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams after the Combined Task Force 150 change of control ceremony officiated by Deputy Coalition Force Maritime Component Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley, left, aboard HMCS Ottawa. The ceremony marked the task force turnover from Lange to Williams. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 6, 2006) – The color guard presents colors as German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange turns over control of Combined Task Force 150 to Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams aboard HMCS Ottawa. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 6, 2006) – The color guard renders honors as German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange; Deputy Coalition Force Maritime Component Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley; and Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams arrive to the change of control ceremony for Combined Task Force 150 aboard HMCS Ottawa. The ceremony marked the task force turnover from Lange to Williams. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 6, 2006) – German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange speaks during the ceremony where he passed control of Combined Task Force 150 to Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams aboard HMCS Ottawa. more

Christmas Tree Delivery to USS Dwight D. Eisenhower

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (Dec. 7, 2006) — Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Kevin Harper, Ship’s Serviceman 3rd Class Christine Anderson, Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Nicole Singletary and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Anchel Klein decorate a Christmas tree aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The carrier received eight of the 200 Christmas trees donated to deployed service members by the “Trees for Troops” program. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW-7) are on a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (Dec. 7, 2006) — Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Kevin Harper decorates a Christmas tree aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). The carrier received eight of the 200 Christmas trees donated to deployed service members by the “Trees for Troops” program. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW-7) are on a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

U.S. Navy Assumes Command of CTF 152

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers speaks to Sailors who had participated in the ceremony where he assumed control of Combined Task Force 152 from Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - Deputy, Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley, center, officiates as Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer, left, turns over control to U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, who is also commander, Eisenhower Strike Group, during the change of command ceremony for Combined Task Force 152 Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). more

061203-N-4205W-007 MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer speaks during a ceremony where he relinquished control of Combined Task Force 152 to U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, who is also commander, Eisenhower Strike Group Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - Deputy, Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley is piped aboard during the change of control ceremony for Combined Task Force 152 Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). The ceremony marked the task force turnover from Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer to U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, who is also commander, Eisenhower Strike Group. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - Deputy, Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander Royal Navy Commodore Keith Winstanley speaks during the change of control ceremony for Combined Task Force 152 Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). The ceremony marked the task force turnover from Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer to U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, who is also commander, Eisenhower Strike Group. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (December 3, 2006) - U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers speaks during the ceremony where he assumed control of Combined Task Force 152 from Italian Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer Dec. 3 aboard Italian replenishment tanker ITS Etna (A 5326). more

Bahraini Crown Prince Visits COMUSNAVCENT

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 28, 2006) - Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ U.S. 5th Fleet Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh (left) tours Naval Support Activity Bahrain with Bahrain’s Crown Prince, His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa. Walsh hosted a visit with the Prince Nov. 28, during which they discussed the U.S. Navy’s role in the Middle East, as well as bi-lateral relations between the U.S. military and the country of Bahrain. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 28, 2006) - Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ U.S. 5th Fleet Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh (front right) gives Bahrain’s Crown Prince, His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa (front left) a tour of the “Freedom Souq,” Naval Support Activity Bahrain’s new Navy Exchange and Morale, Welfare and Recreation complex. Walsh hosted a visit with the Prince Nov. 28, during which they discussed the U.S. Navy’s role in the Middle East, as well as bi-lateral relations between the U.S. military and the country of Bahrain. more

Trees Bring Holiday Spirit to USS Dubuque

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 26, 2006) - USS Dubuque (LPD 8) Command Chaplain Lt. Rodney Weaver (right), and Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Jesus Mosqueda from U.S. Naval Forces Central Command's (NAVCENT) Chaplain's Office, separate the branches of a fresh evergreen Christmas tree on board Amphibious Transport Dock ship. The tree is one of three Dubuque will decorate and display through the holiday season. The trees were the first, from a group of 100 donated by the Christmas Spirit Foundation, to be delivered to commands operating in U.S. Naval Forces Central Command's area of responsibility. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 26, 2006) - A Sailor from USS Dubuque (LPD 8) carries a box, containing a fresh evergreen Christmas tree, up the ship's brow. The tree is one of three Dubuque will decorate and display through the holiday season. The trees were the first, from a group of 100 donated by the Christmas Spirit Foundation, to be delivered to commands operating in NAVCENT's area of responsibility. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 26, 2006) - USS Dubuque (LPD 8) Command Chaplain Lt. Rodney Weaver, separates the branches of a fresh evergreen Christmas tree after it was delivered to the ship. This tree is one of three Dubuque will decorate and display through the holiday season. The trees were the first, from a group of 100 donated by the Christmas Spirit Foundation, to be delivered to commands operating in NAVCENT's area of responsibility. more

Coalition Forces Conduct Replenishment at Sea

ARABIAN SEA (November 22, 2006) - The Japanese fast combat support ship JDS Mashu (AOE 425) conducts a replenishment at sea (RAS) with the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68). Mashu's main mission is the replenishment of fuel and ammunition for ships in order to conduct long-range fleet operations.

ARABIAN SEA (November 22, 2006) - The Japanese fast combat support ship JDS Mashu (AOE 425) conducts a replenishment at sea (RAS) with the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) Mashu's main mission is the replenishment of fuel and ammunition for ships in order to conduct long-range fleet operations.

SECNAV Visits USS Mason in Arabian Gulf

USS MASON, Arabian Gulf (Nov. 26, 2006) - Sailors on board the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) enjoy lunch with the Secretary of the Navy(SECNAV), the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter. Winter visited Mason during its deployment to the 5th Fleet area of operations and wished the Sailors happy holidays and thanked them for their hard work and dedication. Mason is currently working alongside coalition partners conducting Maritime Security Operations for Commander, Task Force (CTF) 152. more

Secretary of the Navy Visits NSA Bahrain

MANAMA, Bahrain (November 25, 2006) – Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter, left, and Deputy Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet Rear Adm. Scott H. Swift answer questions from Sailors and Department of the Navy employees during an all hands call with the staff of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander 5th Fleet. Winter visited commands throughout the Middle East during the Thanksgiving holiday to thank his Sailors for their service to the country. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 25, 2006) – Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter (left), and Deputy Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet Rear Adm. Scott H. Swift answer questions from Sailors and Department of the Navy employees during an all hands call with the staff of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander 5th Fleet. Winter visited commands throughout the Middle East during the Thanksgiving holiday to thank his Sailors for service to their country. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 25, 2006) - Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter (right), and Deputy Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet Rear Adm. Scott H. Swift tour the fitness facility at Naval Support Activity Bahrain during a recent of the base, Nov. 25. Winter visited commands throughout the Middle East during the Thanksgiving holiday to thank Sailors for service to their country. more

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 25, 2006) - Secretary of the Navy Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, right, tours Naval Support Activity Bahrain's commissary with Deputy Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet Rear Adm. Scott H. Swift, center, and Daniel Cougevan, general manager of Navy Exchange (NEX) Bahrain, Nov 25. Winter visited commands throughout the Middle East during the Thanksgiving holiday to thank Sailors and Marines for service to their country. Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bobby Northnagle more

Secretary of the Navy Visits Boxer

USS BOXER, At Sea (Nov. 24, 2006) - Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter meets USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors during a visit to the ship, Nov. 24. Winter's visit was part of his Thanksgiving holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command's area of responsibility where he conveyed the gratitude and thanks of the American people for Sailors' and Marines' serving in the Middle East. more

USS BOXER, At Sea (Nov. 24, 2006) - The Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, listens to USS Boxer's (LHD 4) Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Scott Grucza explain the ship's medical capabilities during a visit to the ship, Nov. 24. Winter's visit was part of his Thanksgiving holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility where he conveyed the gratitude and thanks of the American people for the Sailors' and Marines' serving in the Middle East. more

USS BOXER, At Sea (Nov. 24, 2006) - The Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, meets USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors during a visit to the ship, Nov. 24. Winter's visit was part of his Thanksgiving holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility where he conveyed the gratitude and thanks of the American people for the Sailors' and Marines' serving in the Middle East. more

USS BOXER, At Sea (Nov. 24, 2006) - Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, listens as USS Boxer's (LHD 4) Main Propulsion Assistant Lt. Cmdr. Thomas Eason explains the ship's propulsion systems during a visit to the ship, Nov. 24. Winter's visit was part of his Thanksgiving holiday tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility where he conveyed the gratitude and thanks of the American people for the Sailors' and Marines' serving in the Middle East. more

CTF 152 Visits USS Mason

Cdmr. John Fuller commanding officer of USS Mason (DDG 87) escorts Commander Task Force 152, Italian Navy Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer, during a tour of the Aft missile deck. Foltzer paid a visit to the Sailors on USS Mason (DDG 87) to recognize them for their important role they are playing in the region supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS Ramage Assists CTF 150 with Maritime Security Operations

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 15, 2006) — The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) is now operating with Commander Task Force 150 while operating in the Arabian Sea. Ramage, part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, is on a regular scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). These operations help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Exercise Island Response Concludes in Seychelles

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 8, 2006) – Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician Tom O’Brien from EOD Mobile Unit 4 Detachment 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, swims out to plant a dummy limpet mine on a vessel during exercise Island Response. The training allowed divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard to practice removing the mines from ship hulls. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 8, 2006) – Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician Tom O’Brien from EOD Mobile Unit 4 Detachment 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, demonstrates how to remove a limpet mine from the hull of a vessel during exercise Island Response. The training allowed divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard to practice removing the mines from ship hulls. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 13, 2006) – Navy Diver 1st Class Lee Fitzgerald from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 Detachment 5, based out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, demonstrates how to wear the Mk 20 full face mask to members of the Seychelles Coast Guard diving unit prior to conducting a familiarization dive and practicing emergency procedures during exercise Island Response. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 13, 2006) – Navy Diver 2nd Class Brendan Holt from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 4 Detachment 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, demonstrates how to wear the Mk 20 full face mask to members of the Seychelles Coast Guard diving unit prior to conducting a familiarization dive and practicing emergency procedures during exercise Island Response. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 10, 2006) –Senior Chief Navy Diver (Master Diver) Gene McDaniel from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 Detachment 5, based out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, explains the Mk 20 full face mask to Seychelles Coast Guard diver Sgt. Randolph Barra, during exercise Island Response. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 10, 2006) –Senior Chief Navy Diver (Master Diver) Gene McDaniel from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 Detachment 5, based out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, explains the Mk 20 full face mask to Seychelles Coast Guard diver Sgt. Paul Victor during exercise Island Response. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 9, 2006) –Lance Cpl. Hubin Marie from the Seychelles Coast Guard diving unit watches as Navy Diver 2nd Class Brandon Holt, from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 4, Detachment 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, releases the tow fish for a side scan sonar during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (November 8, 2006) – Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician Tom O’Brien from EOD Mobile Unit 4 Detachment 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, accepts a dummy limpet mine before planting it on a vessel during exercise Island Response. The training allowed divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard to practice removing the mines from ship hulls. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability of U.S. Navy divers and divers from the Seychelles Coast Guard. more

U.S. Navy Takes the Reins of CTF 158 from Royal Australian Navy

OCEAN 6, At Sea (Nov. 12, 2006) - U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen bids Royal Australian Commodore Peter Lockwood farewell after turning over the Combined Task Force (CTF) 158 mission, Nov. 12. Lockwood had commanded the task force since June 23. CTF 158 is specifically responsible for ensuring the security of Iraq’s Khawr Al Amaya and Al Basra oil terminals. more

Exercise Island Response Focuses on Interoperability

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 13, 2006) – Divers from the Seychelle Coast Guard and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 4 out of Manama, Bahrain, walk into the water for a familiarization dive to practice emergency procedures during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing interoperability between divers from the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 13, 2006) – Chief Navy Diver Tim O’Neil from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 Det. 5, based out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, conducts pre-dive checks with members of the Seychelles Coast Guard diving unit, Nov. 13, during exercise Island Response 2006. Both units took part in a familiarization dive and practiced emergency procedures. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing interoperability between divers from the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 13, 2006) – Divers from the Seychelle Coast Guard and Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Det. 5, out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, conduct pre-dive checks prior to conducting a familiarization dive and practicing emergency procedures, Nov 13, during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing interoperability between divers from the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 13, 2006) – Divers from the Seychelle Coast Guard and Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Det. 5, out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, walk into the water for a familiarization dive to practice emergency procedures during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing interoperability between divers from the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. more

USS Anzio Provides Medical Assistance to Pakistani Dhow

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 13, 2006) - A Sailor from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team provides water to a crew member from the motor vessel AL Shams, a Pakistani-flagged dhow. Anzio provided the dhow with water, food and medical attention. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 13, 2006) - Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brandin Huggett from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team provides medical aid to a crew member from the motor vessel AL Shams, a Pakistani-flagged dhow. Huggett said, "If we hadn't helped, he probably would have lost his foot in about two weeks or so (to a laceration infection). It's rewarding knowing that my training enables me to help others outside the Navy as well." Anzio provided the dhow with water, food and medical attention. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

Arabian Sea (Nov. 13, 2006) - Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brandin Huggett from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team provides medical aid to a crew member from the motor vessel AL Shams, a Pakistani-flagged dhow. Huggett said, "If we hadn't helped, he probably would have lost his foot in about two weeks or so (to a laceration infection). It's rewarding knowing that my training enables me to help others outside the Navy as well." Anzio provided the dhow with water, food and medical attention. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

USS Dallas Departs Bahrain Following Weeklong Port Visit

MANAMA, Bahrain (Nov. 7, 2006) - USS Dallas (SSN 700) departed Manama, Bahrain, Nov. 11, following a weeklong port visit to the island country. Dallas is midway through a six-month deployment to U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS Anzio Provides Assistance to Iranian Dhow

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 10, 2006) - Sailors from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team provide aid to the motor vessel SINAA, a 35 meter Iranian-flagged dhow. Anzio supplied the dhow with water, fuel and food to sustain themselves for the transit home after receiving a distress call from the dhow. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 10, 2006) - Sailors from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team pass food to a crew member of the motor vessel SINAA, a 35 meter Iranian-flagged dhow. Anzio supplied the dhow with water, fuel and food to sustain themselves for the transit home after receiving a distress call from the dhow. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 10, 2006) - A Sailor from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team discusses the weather forecast with the boat master of the motor vessel SINAA, a 35 meter Iranian-flagged dhow. Anzio supplied the dhow with water, fuel and food to sustain themselves for the transit home after receiving a distress call from the dhow. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 10, 2006) - Sailors from guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio's (CG 68) rescue and assistance team pass fuel to a crew member of the motor vessel SINAA, a 35 meter Iranian-flagged dhow. Anzio supplied the dhow with water, fuel and food to sustain themselves for the transit home after receiving a distress call from the dhow. Anzio is deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO seek to preserve the free and secure use of the world's oceans by legitimate mariners and prevent terrorist from attempting to use the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a medium to transport personnel, weapons or other material that could support their efforts. more

Exercise Island Response Kicks Off in Seychelles

Mahe Island, Seychelles (Nov. 9, 2006) - Chief Navy Diver Tim O’Neil from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Det. 5 out of Manama, Bahrain, and Sgt. Paul Victor from the Seychelles Coast Guard rig a tow fish used with a side scan sonar during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kathryn Whittenberger more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 9, 2006) - Chief Navy Diver Tim O’Neil from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Det. 5 out of Manama, Bahrain, and Sgt. Paul Victor from the Seychelles Coast Guard rig a tow fish used with a side scan sonar during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kathryn Whittenberger more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 9, 2006) - Chief Navy Diver Tim O’Neil (Left) from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Det. 5 out of Manama, Bahrain, Private Sandy Paul and Sgt. Paul Victor from the Seychelles Coast Guard rig a tow fish used with a side scan sonar during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kathryn Whittenberger more

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles (Nov. 9, 2006) – Navy Diver 2nd Class Brandon Holt, from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 4, Det. 12 out of Manama, Bahrain, releases the tow fish for a side scan sonar as Lance Cpl. Hubin Marie from the Seychelles Coast Guard observes, during exercise Island Response 2006. The annual exercise is geared toward increasing the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Seychelles Coast Guard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kathryn Whittenberger more

Boxer ESG Enters 5th Fleet Area of Operations

USS BOXER, At Sea (Nov. 05 2006) - USS Boxer (LHD 4) and ships from Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) steam along side while transiting to the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet area of operation. The BOXESG will conduct Maritime Security Operations in the region. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Iwo Jima ESG Departs 5th Fleet

USS IWO JIMA (Nov. 8, 2006) - USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and USS Nashville (LPD 13) follow the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), through the Suez Canal, Nov. 8. The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) successfully transited the Suez Canal, concluding operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of operations. Iwo Jima deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and is nearing the end of a six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS IWO JIMA (Nov. 8, 2006) - USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) prepares to pass under the Mubarak Peace Bridge while transiting through the Suez Canal, Nov. 8. The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) successfully transited the Suez Canal, concluding operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. Iwo Jima deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and took part in a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Carrier Air Wing Seven begins OEF Missions

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 7, 2006) - Aviation Ordnancemen with the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 load ordnance onto an F/A-18E Super Hornet aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW) 7 are currently on a scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 8, 2006) – A Sailor with the "Jolly Rogers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) loads a rocket onto an F/A-18F Super Hornet. IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW) 7 are currently on a scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 7, 2006) - An F/A-18C from the "Wildcats" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 lands on the deck of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). USS Dwight D. Eisenhower is currently conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 7, 2006) A Sailor ensures the number two arresting wire fully retracts for an incoming F/A 18F from the "Jolly Rogers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103. USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) is conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 7, 2006) An F/A 18C from the Rampagers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VF) 83 launches from the number three catapult on board USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. more

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 7, 2006) - Lt. Jake Huber, a landing signals officer (LSO), from the "Rampagers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83 observes an F/A-18F from VFA-103 land aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). LSOs are responsible for conducting safe and expeditious recoveries during flight operations. Eisenhower is conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations. more

USS Saipan, HM-15 Demonstrate Mine Sweeping Capability

USS SAIPAN (Nov. 7, 2006) - HM-53E Sea Dragon helicopters from Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 demonstrate the mine sweeping capabilities of the Navy's MK-105 Magnetic Influence System, better known as the "sled," during a mine countermeasure training event in the Arabian Gulf in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS SAIPAN (Nov. 7, 2006) - HM-53E Sea Dragon helicopters from Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 demonstrate the mine sweeping capabilities of the Navy's MK-105 Magnetic Influence System, better known as the "sled," prior to a mine countermeasure training event in the Arabian Gulf in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS SAIPAN (Nov. 6, 2006) - HM-53E Sea Dragon helicopters from Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 demonstrate the mine sweeping capabilities of the Navy's MK-105 Magnetic Influence System, better known as the "sled," during a mine countermeasure training event in the Arabian Gulf in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS SAIPAN (Nov. 7, 2006) - The Navy's MK-105 Magnetic Influence System, better known as the "sled," deploys into the Arabian Gulf prior to the commencement of a mine countermeasure training event in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER FLIGHT OPERATIONS

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 6, 2006) – An F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103, the “Jolly Rogers," is the first to launch from the flight deck in support of Operation Enduring Freedom aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). IKE and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 are currently on a scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations.

Eisenhower Strike Group Arrives in 5th Fleet

RED SEA (Oct. 31, 2006) - The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) steams alongside the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) after arriving in the Red Sea to begin its deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations. While in theater, Eisenhower will perform Maritime Security Operations (MSO) which help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

RED SEA (Oct. 31, 2006) - The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (background) steams alongside the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) after arriving in the Red Sea to begin its deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations. While in theater, Eisenhower will perform Maritime Security Operations (MSO) which help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

RED SEA (Oct. 31, 2006) - The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (foreground) steams alongside the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) after arriving in the Red Sea to begin its deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operations. While in theater, Eisenhower will perform Maritime Security Operations (MSO) which help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Naval Forces Conduct Exercise Leading Edge

CENTRAL ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 30, 2006) - The French ship FS Commandant Ducuing (F 795), prepares to circle the British ship, RFA Brambleaf prior to performing a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operation during Exercise Leading Edge, Oct. 30. Naval and law enforcement personnel from Australia, Bahrain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in the exercise. Exercise Leading Edge is the maritime portion of a two-phase, multi-national proliferation security initiative (PSI) exercise. PSI is a response to the growing challenge posed by the proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials worldwide. more

CENTRAL ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 30, 2006) - French ship FS Commandant Ducuing (F 795) and HMAS Warramunga (FFH-152) participate in naval maneuvers during Exercise Leading Edge in the Arabian Gulf. Naval and law enforcement personnel from Australia, Bahrain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in the exercise. Leading Edge is the maritime portion of a two-phase, multi-national proliferation security initiative (PSI) exercise. PSI is a response to the growing challenge posed by the proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials worldwide. more

CENTRAL ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 30, 2006) - HMAS Warramunga (FFH-152) (left) and French ship FS Commandant Ducuing (F 795), participate in naval maneuvers during Exercise Leading Edge in the Arabian Gulf, Oct. 30. Naval and law enforcement personnel from Australia, Bahrain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in the exercise. Exercise Leading Edge is the maritime portion of a two-phase, multi-national proliferation security initiative (PSI) exercise. PSI is a response to the growing challenge posed by the proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials worldwide. more

CENTRAL ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 30, 2006) - Sailors from the French ship, FS Commandant Ducuing (F 795) move to intercept a simulated "enemy" vessel during Exercise Leading Edge in the Arabian Gulf, Oct. 30. Naval forces and law enforcement personnel from Australia, Bahrain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in the exercise. Exercise Leading Edge is the maritime portion of a two-phase, multi-national proliferation security initiative (PSI) exercise. PSI is a response to the growing challenge posed by the proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, and related materials worldwide. more

Joint Civilian Orientation Conference Tours Iwo Jima

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct. 18 2006) - Members of the Department of Defense sponsored Joint Civilian Orientation Conference watch as an AV-8B Harrier performs a vertical short takeoff and landing during a flight quarters demonstration on board USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Oct. 18. Iwo Jima deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct 18, 2006) - USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Commanding Officer Capt. Michael A. Walley leads members of the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference during a tour of the flight deck Oct. 18. Iwo Jima is currently deployed from it's homeport of Norfolk, Va., and is on a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct 18, 2006) - USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Commanding Officer Capt. Michael A. Walley leads members of the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference during a tour of the flight deck Oct. 18. Iwo Jima is currently deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and on a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct. 18 2006) - Members of the Department of Defense sponsered Joint Civilian Orientation Conference watches an AV-8B Harrier perform a vertical short takeoff and landing during a flight quarters demonstration aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is currently deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct 18, 2006) - Members of the Department of Defence sponsored Joint Civilian Orientation Conference receive a tour of the medical ward aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Oct. 18. Iwo Jima is currently deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., on a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of deployment to responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct 16, 2006) - The Joint Civilian Orientation Conference receives a tour of medical spaces from USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Commanding Officer Capt. Michael A. Walley Oct. 18. Iwo Jima is currently deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Va., and on a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of deployment to responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations.

MCPON Visits US Naval Forces Central Command’s Area of Responsibility

MANAMA, Bahrain (Oct. 23, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa Jr., conducts an all hands call with chief petty officers attached to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain and its 76 tenant commands, Oct. 23. Bahrain is the last stop on Campa’s weeklong tour of U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility( AOR). While in the AOR, MCPON also visited Sailors in Iraq, Afghanistan and Qatar.

SOUTHWEST ASIA (Oct. 21, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa Jr. discusses the mission of Navy Customs Battalion, Romeo with Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Derek Calhoun, one of many Naval Reservists deployed in the region responsible for clearing personal luggage and cargo for military members returning from deployment. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility to visit with Sailors currently assigned to non-traditional Navy roles in the Middle East. more

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 21, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa Jr. recognizes Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (FMF) Christopher Lucas on his outstanding performance while serving with the 1st Dental Battalion. During a three-month period, Lucas has taken more than 1,000 X-rays, treating coalition personnel as well as local Iraqis. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility. more

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 21, 2006) - Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (FMF) Andrea A. Brasileno, and, and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Adrian B. Aquino (forefront), listen as Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa Jr., addresses Sailors during an all hands call. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility. more

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (Oct. 19, 2006) Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr., talks to Sailors during an all hands call at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, Oct. 19. For the first time since assuming the role as the Navy’s top enlisted Sailor, Campa is touring throughout the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility and visiting with Sailors serving in non-traditional Navy roles. more

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (oct. 19, 2006) – Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr. and Aviation Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (AW) Javier Correa, of Expeditionary Logistics Unit (ELU), Whidbey Island, Wash., discuss the mission of Sailors serving in Afghanistan, following an all hands call at Bagram Air Base. For the first time since assuming the role as the Navy’s top enlisted Sailor, Campa is touring throughout the U.S. Central Command’s (CENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR) and visiting with Sailors serving in non-traditional Navy roles. There are currently more than 11,000 Sailors serving on the ground in CENTCOM’s AOR. more

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (Oct. 19, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr., talks to Sailors during an all hands call at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, Oct. 19. For the first time since assuming the role as the Navy’s top enlisted Sailor, Campa is touring throughout the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility and visiting with Sailors serving in non-traditional Navy roles. more

SOUTHWEST ASIA (October 18, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr., talks with Sailors assigned to Patrol Squadron 9 and Fleet Air Recon Squadron 1, Oct. 18. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility to visit with Sailors currently assigned to non-traditional Navy roles in the Middle East.

SOUTHWEST ASIA (October 18, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr., discusses Individual Augmentation (IA) matters with Sailors assigned to Patrol Squadron 9 and Fleet Air Recon Squadron 1, Oct. 18. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility to visit with Sailors currently assigned to non-traditional Navy roles in the Middle East.

SOUTHWEST ASIA (October 18, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr. enjoys lunch with Sailors assigned to Patrol Squadron 9 and Fleet Air Recon Squadron 1, Oct. 18. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility to visit with Sailors currently assigned to non-traditional Navy roles in the Middle East.

SOUTHWEST ASIA (October 18, 2006) - Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SW/FMF) Joe Campa, Jr. answers questions, Oct. 18, from the Sailors assigned to Patrol Squadron 9 and Fleet Air Recon Squadron 1, relating to the upcoming merger of rates in the Navy aviation community. Campa is touring military facilities throughout U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility to visit with Sailors currently assigned to non-traditional Navy roles in the Middle East.

EOD, Divers Complete “Edged Response” Training Exercise

MANDA BAY, Kenya (Oct. 18,2006) – Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician 1st Class Kelly Franz from the EOD Mobile Unit (EODMU), Detachment 4 shows a typical improvised explosive device to Kenyan naval divers as part of the 10-day bilateral Edged Response training exercise. more

MANDA BAY, Kenya (Oct. 17,2006) – Navy Diver 2nd Class Overton Pierce, left, Navy Diver 1st Class Gerald Fitzgerald, center, and Navy Diver 1st Class Marvin Alejo from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, Detachment 5 conduct operational tests on a side scan sonar, which is used to identify objects on the sea floor. The equipment was used for training with Kenyan naval divers as part of the 10-day bilateral Edged Response training exercise. more

MANDA BAY, Kenya (Oct. 17,2006) – Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician 1st Class Kelly Franz from the EOD Mobile Unit (EODMU), Detachment 4 cuts detonation cord while preparing a practice explosive. The explosive was used for training with Kenyan naval divers as part of the 10-day bilateral Edged Response training exercise. more

MANDA BAY, Kenya (Oct. 17,2006) – Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician 1st Class Kelly Franz from the EOD Mobile Unit (EODMU), Detachment 4 explains to Kenyan naval divers how to remove an explosive device attached to the hull of a ship as part of the 10-day bilateral Edged Response training exercise. more

Barge Sets Sail for Iraqi Oil Platforms

MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain (October 17, 2006) - Tug boat Dona 2 tows Ocean 6 to the Arabian Gulf. Ocean 6, a chartered barge that features all the information and coordination capabilities of a coalition warship’s Combat Information Center, will act as a command and control platform for personnel assigned to protect the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal and Al Basrah Oil Terminal. more

MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain (October 17, 2006) – Tug boat Dona 2 tows Ocean 6 to the Arabian Gulf. Ocean 6, a chartered barge that features all the information and coordination capabilities of a coalition warship’s Combat Information Center, will act as a command and control platform for personnel assigned to protect the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal and Al Basrah Oil Terminal. more

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Visits CTF 152

ITS ETNA, At Sea (Oct. 16, 2006) – Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh (right) tours ITS Etna with Commander Task Force 152 Italian Navy Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer, Oct. 16. During the visit, Walsh toured the Italian replenishment and logistical support ship and was briefed on the task force’s efforts toward Maritime Security Operations (MSO). Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.

ITS ETNA, At Sea (Oct. 16, 2006) Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh addresses Task Force 152 personnel and crew members of ITS Etna (A 5326) while aboard the Italian replenishment and logistic support ship, Oct. 16. During the visit, Walsh toured the ship and was briefed on the task force’s efforts toward Maritime Security Operations (MSO). Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.

ITS ETNA, At Sea (Oct. 16, 2006) -- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh greets crew members of ITS Etna (A 5326) while touring the Italian replenishment and logistic support ship, Oct. 16. During the visit, Walsh met with Commander, Task Force 152 Italian Navy Rear Adm. Emilio Foltzer, and discussed the task force’s efforts toward Maritime Security Operations (MSO). Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.

CTF 152 visits UAE; Exercises with Gulf Nations

ITS ETNA, Arabian Gulf (Oct. 12, 2006) - An Italian boarding team prepares to board ITS Etna during Visit, Board, Search and Seizure training, Oct. 12, as part of a theater security cooperation exercise. more

ITS ETNA, Arabian Gulf (Oct. 12, 2006) - Italian Marines fast rope aboard ITS Etna, Oct. 12, during a recent theater security cooperation exercise with regional countries. more

ITS ETNA, Arabian Gulf (Oct. 12, 2006) - An Italian boarding team conducts Visit, Board, Search and Seizure training aboard ITS Etna, Oct. 12, as part of a theater security cooperation excercise. more

Exercise Eagle Response Concludes with Land-Based Training in Egypt

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 19, 2006) - Mineman 2nd Class Petty Officer James Frank (left) and Cryptologic Technician - Collection 2nd Class Petty Officer (SW/DV) Michael Raysdale (center), Explosive Ordinance Disposal Mobile Unit 6, Det. 4 crewmembers and Exercise Eagle Response participants, quickly pull themselves onto a boat after placing charges on a mock bottom mine during a training evolution in the Red Sea. EODMU 6, Det. 4 crew members are in Hurghada, Egypt training their Egyptian counterparts mine countermeasure techniques. more

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 17, 2006) - U.S. Navy Lt. Steve Kobos (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EODMU) 6, Det. 4 officer in charge and Phoenix native, trains members of the Egyptian Navy Frogmen (ENF) on mine countermeasures equipment during Exercise Eagle Response in Hurghada, Egypt. During Eagle Response, EODMU 6, Det. 4, will provide classroom and hands-on training concerning mine countermeasure and diving techniques to their Egyptian counterparts. more

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 17, 2006) - U.S. Navy Lt. Steve Kobos (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EODMU) 6, Det. 4 officer in charge and Phoenix native, explains countermine techniques to Egyptian Navy Frogmen (ENF) during Exercise Eagle Response in Hurghada, Egypt. During Eagle Response, EODMU 6, Det. 4, will provide classroom and hands-on training on mine countermeasures and diving techniques to their Egyptian counterparts. more

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 17, 2006) - U.S. Navy Lt. Steve Kobos (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EODMU) 6, Det. 4 officer in charge and Phoenix native, explains mine countermeasure specifications to members of Egyptian Navy Frogmen (ENF) during Exercise Eagle Response in Hurghada, Egypt. During Eagle Response, Det. 4 will provide classroom and hands-on training on mine countermeasures and diving techniques to their Egyptian counterparts. more

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 19, 2006) - Cryptologic Technician-Collection 2nd Class Petty Officer (SW/DV) Michael Raysdale (right), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6, Det. 4 crew member, swims toward a Mark-5 balloon attached to a mock bottom mine during a training evolution in the Red Sea. EODMU 6, Det. 4, currently deployed to the region, are in Hurghada, Egypt to train their Egyptian counterparts. more

HURGHADA, Egypt (Sept. 19, 2006) - Lt. Steve Cobos, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6 Det. 4 officer in charge and an Egyptian Navy Frogman remove a simulated limpet mine from the rotor shield of a ship using a shock wave generator (SWAG). EODMU 6, Det. 4 currently deployed to the region, are in Hurghada, Egypt to train their Egyptian counterparts. more

Commander, U.S. Central Command Visits USS Iwo Jima

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct. 10, 2006) -- Commander, U.S. Central Command Gen. John Abizaid passes through sideboys during a visit to the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Oct. 10. Iwo Jima departed her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) (Oct. 10, 2006) -- Commander, U.S. Central Command Gen. John Abizaid listens during a brief aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Oct. 10. Iwo Jima departed her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility to conduct Maritime Security Operations. more

Inshore Boat Unit 15 Sailors Patrol NAG

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards, a crewman for Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Houston, performs a weapons check prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards from Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Houston, mans a M-240B crew-served machine gun while underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) –Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards from Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Houston, mans the M-240B crew-served machine gun while underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Operations Specialist 1st Class Mike Baker, a patrol leader for Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Austin, Texas, performs a communications check while underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Master Chief Gunner’s Mate Larry Schuyver, Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 senior enlisted advisor and native of Oklahoma City, oversees Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards, an IBU 15 crewman and native of Houston, as he performs a weapons check prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Information Technician 2nd Class Clarence Donnelly (left) and Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards from Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and both natives of Houston, perform a weapons check prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Information Technician 2nd Class Clarence Donnelly, a boat engineer for Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Houston, checks the oil dipstick prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Information Technician 2nd Class Clarence Donnelly (left) and Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards from Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and both natives of Houston, take fuel soundings prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait (Sept. 25, 2006) – Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Mikel Edwards, a crewman for Inshore Boat Unit (IBU) 15 and native of Houston, inspects the seawater strainer for debris prior to getting underway aboard a 34-foot Dauntless Patrol Boat. IBU 15 patrols the waters of the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

NMCB 5 Seabees Begin Renovations in Ethiopia

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) – Steel Worker 3rd Class Brandin Salazar from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and native of Anaheim, Calif., takes measurements on a half-inch plywood board prior to snapping the line, a procedure used to help accurately cut wood in a straight line. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations within the Ethiopia-based camp. more

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) - Construction Electrician 2nd Class Brian Blodgett, attached to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and a native of Los Angeles, builds a storage box, which will store building materials for upcoming renovation projects. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations in the Ethiopia-based camp. more

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) - Construction Electrician 2nd Class Brian Blodgett, attached to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and a native of Los Angeles, installs a junction box that will help power the temporary lighting for Camp Hurso’s perimeter fence. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations in the Ethiopia-based camp. more

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) – Steel Worker 3rd Class Brandin Salazar from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and native of Anaheim, Calif., uses a circular saw to cut through a half-inch piece of plywood. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations within the Ethiopia-based camp. more

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) – Steel Worker 3rd Class Brandin Salazar from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and native of Anaheim, Calif., prepares to snap the line, a procedure used to help accurately cut wood in a straight line. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations within the Ethiopia-based camp. more

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) – Builder 3rd Class (SCW) Kat Matte from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 and native of Abbeville, La., applies wood glue to plywood boards which will be used to create a makeshift ping-pong table at Camp Hurso. NMCB 5 Seabees are conducting renovations within the Ethiopia-based camp. more

Chaplain Conducts Mass at Ethiopia-Based Camp

CAMP HURSO, Ethiopia (Sept. 28, 2006) - Navy Lt. Cmdr. John Gayton performs Catholic mass for U.S. service members stationed at Camp Hurso, Sept. 28. Gayton, officer in charge of the Marine Expeditionary Force Religious Ministry Unit Det. A and native of Claymont, Del., stopped by the Ethiopia-based camp while touring through the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa area of responsibility.

USS Cole Makes First 5th Fleet Port Call Since Terrorist Attack

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain (Oct, 2, 2006)-USS Cole (DDG 67) departs from NSA Bahrain's Mina Salman pier, Bahrain, Oct. 2, after completing its first port call in the region since Oct. 12, 2000 terrorist attack in Yemen. Cole is currently underway conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain (Oct. 2, 2006) - U.S. Navy Master At Arms 3rd Class Stephen Hughes, Naval Security Force Harbor Patrolman at NSA Bahrain and Cleveland,Va. native, watches over the USS Cole (DDG 67) as it departs from NSA Bahrain’s Mina Salman pier, Oct. 2, after completing its first port call to to the region since the Oct. 12, 2006 terrorist attacks in Yemen. Cole is currently underway conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS Iwo Jima Air Department, Aviation Ordnancemen Provide Support to OEF Missions

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (Sept. 21 2006) -- An AV-8B Harrier launches during flight operations from from the deck of the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) September 21. Iwo Jima recently deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). more

MPT&E Senior Enlisted Complete Tour in NAVCENT AOR

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - Navy Recruiting Command's Command Master Chief, Chief of Naval Operations-Directed Master Chief (SW/AW) Evelyn Banks, answers a question during an All-Hands Call at Camp Lemonier, Sept. 28. Banks, along with other master chiefs from Navy's Manpower, Training and Education (MPT&E) command, spent a weeklong visit in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command's area of responsibility familiarizing themselves with the roles of "boots-on-ground" Sailors. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ U.S. 5th Fleet Command Master Chief, Chief of Naval Operations-Directed Master Chief (SW/AW) Kelly Schneider, fields questions during an All-Hands Call at Camp Lemonier, Sept. 28. Schneider organized a weeklong familiarization trip for senior enlisted leaders from the Navy's Manpower, Training and Education (MPT&E) command. The focus of the tour was to visit with Sailors operating within the Middle East region and familiarize themselves with the roles of "boots-on-ground" Sailors. more

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - Navy Personnel Command's Command Master Chief, Chief of Naval Operations-Directed Master Chief (SS) John Walker, answers a question during an All-Hands Call at Camp Lemonier, Sept. 28. Walker, along with other master chiefs from Navy's Manpower, Training and Education (MPT&E) command, spent a weeklong visit in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command's area of responsibility familiarizing themselves with the roles of "boots-on-ground" Sailors. more

MPT&E’s Top Senior Enlisted Tour North Arabian Gulf

KHAWR AL AMAYA OIL TERMINAL, North Arabian Gulf – Chief Electrician’s Mate (SW/AW) Ericksondennis Tagudar, Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) assistant officer in charge and native of Baguio City, P.I., gives a tour of the oil platform to CNOCM (SS) John Walker, command master chief of Navy Personnel Command, Sept. 26. Walker, along with other master chiefs from the U.S. Navy’s Manpower, Training, and Education (MPT&E) command are touring the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command as part of a weeklong familiarization tour visiting Sailors serving in non-traditional Navy roles. more

MPT&E Continues Tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s AOR

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - CNOCM (SS) John Walker and CNOCM (SW/AW) Evelyn Banks discuss the important role of Individual Augumentees (IA) with Master At Arms 1st Class Duane Nokes, assistant facility manager at the theater field detention facility (TFDF). Walker and Banks are in the midst of a weeklong trip through U.S. Naval Forces Central Commands AOR as part of a Navy Manpower, Training and Education familiarization tour. more

Navy Manpower, Training & Education Master Chiefs Visit Middle East

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – CNOCM (SW/AW) Tony Driver (left) discusses training issues with Aviation Electronics Technician First Class (AW) Nancy Beach, from Manassas, Va., and Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class (SW) Carrie Gardner, a native of Berlin, Penn., during a visit to Camp Buehring’s HC-4 hangar. Driver is part of a Navy manpower, training and education tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility. more

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – CNOCM(SW/AW) Evelyn Banks, command master chief of Navy Recruiting Command, enjoys a discussion with Aviation Electronics Technician First Class (AW) Nancy Beach, a native of Manassas, Va., during a visit to Camp Buehring’s HC-4 hangar. Banks is part of a manpower training and education tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility. more

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – CNOCM (SS) John Walker, command master chief of Navy Personnel Command, discusses career information with Aviation Electronics Technician Third Class (AW) Andrea Hall of Fullerton, Calif., during a visit to Camp Buehring’s HC-4 hangar. Walker is part of a Navy manpower, training, and education tour of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility. more

US Ships Conduct MSO in NAG

USS CHINOOK (PC 9), At sea – USS Chinook (PC 9) home ported in Little Creek, Va., stands by as coalition vessels warn a fishing dhow to keep clear of the perimeter around the Khawr Al Amaya oil terminal in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG), Sept. 20. Chinook is currently underway with coalition vessels in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the NAG. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

U.S. COAST GUARD CUTTER MAUI (WPB 1304), At sea - U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Maui’s (WPB 1304) crew of lower a rigid hull inflatable boat to transport passengers back to USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG), Sept. 20. Maui is currently underway in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the NAG. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

USS Saipan, HM-15 Mark Historical Exercise

ARABIAN GULF - An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Fifteen (HM-15), tows a MK-105 Magnetic Influence Minesweeping System or 'sled' during operations with USS Saipan (LHA 2) in the Arabian Gulf, Sept. 19. Saipan is currently on deployment to the region conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO). U.S. and coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. more

ARABIAN GULF - Twin MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters, assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Fifteen (HM-15), tow MK-105's Magnetic Influence Minesweeping System or 'sleds' during operations with USS Saipan (LHA 2) in the Arabian Gulf, Sept. 19. Saipan is currently on deployment to the region conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO). U.S. and coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. more

ARABIAN GULF - The MK-105 Magnetic Influence Minesweeping System, better known as the sled, is a high speed catamaran hydrofoil platform which is towed behind the MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Fifteen (HM-15). The amphibious assault ship USS Saipan (LHA 2) and HM-15 conducted a Mine Countermeasure exercise in the Arabian Gulf, Sept. 17. Saipan is currently on deployment to the region conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO). U.S. and coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. more

C-130 Carries the Load for NAVCENT

MANAMA, Bahrain -- Aviation Electrician's Mate 1st Class (AW) Ahren Dains, Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VR) 55 leading petty officer, helps secure a pallet of cargo aboard a C-130 at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain's aviation unit Sept. 10. VR-55 "Minutemen” based in Point Mugu, Calif., are currently deployed to NSA Bahrain in support of Maritime Security Operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MANAMA, Bahrain -- Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class (AW/NAC) Jason Dodd, a loadmaster for Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VR) 55, helps secure a pallet of cargo aboard a C-130 at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain's aviation unit Sept. 10. VR-55 "Minutemen” based in Point Mugu, Calif., are currently deployed to NSA Bahrain in support of Maritime Security Operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

COMUSNAVCENT/Fifth Fleet Master Chief Visits USS Saipan

Persian Gulf - CNO Directed Master Chief Kelly Schneider, the 5th fleet Command Master Chief, makes a joke on the Bridge for Quartermaster 3rd Class Charles Jacquette, and Quartermaster Seaman Catherine Wells aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Saipan LHA-2.Saipan is currently in the Persian Gulf for a routine four month deployment in support of the Global War on Terror. more

ARABIAN GULF - CNO Directed Master Chief Kelly Schneider, the 5th fleet Command Master Chief, talks with Watch Standers in the Forward Main Machinery Room aboard the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Saipan (LHA-2). Saipan is currently in the Arabian Gulf for a routine four month deployment in support of the Maritime Security Operations. more

CVW 1: Strike Missions Continue For Ninth Day

ARABIAN SEA - Aviation ordnancemen assigned to the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron One Three Six (VFA-136) load a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb onto an F/A-18C Hornet on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. more

ARABIAN SEA - Members of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Six (EODMU 6), Detachment 14, fire rounds downrange during an M4 carbine and M9 pistol proficiency shoot on the fantail of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. more

ARABIAN SEA - Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Tristan Rose, of Wheeler, Texas, inspects ordnance staged on the bomb farm on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing ONE (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of maritime security operations, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. more

Strikes Continue; ISAF Air Component Commander Visits Big E

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At sea - Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Ryan Grogan, of Indianapolis, Ind., verifies component serial numbers of a GBU-38 bomb loaded on an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron TWO ONE ONE (VFA-211), on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At sea - Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Ryan Bauer, of Cedartown, Ga., verifies the serial numbers on components of a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb loaded on an F/A-18C Hornet, attached to the "Sidewinders" of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHT SIX (VFA-86), on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At sea - Commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, Rear Admiral Ray Spicer (center), International Security Assistance Force Detachment Commander, Air Commodore Bryan Collins, British Royal Air Force (right), and Chief of Staff, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, Captain Gary Parriott, engage in the Admiral's daily brief onboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At sea - Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Mackenzie Lee (left), of Lumberton, Texas, and Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Ryan Bauer, of Cedartown, Ga., set the battery arming wire on a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb loaded on an F/A-18C Hornet, attached to the "Sidewinders" of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHT SIX (VFA-86), on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing ONE (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At sea - Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Mackenzie Lee, of Lumberton, Texas, installs an armoring wire onto a GBU-12 laser-guided bomb loaded on an F/A-18C Hornet, attached to the "Sidewinders" of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHT SIX (VFA-86), on the flight deck aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise and embarked Carrier Airwing ONE (CVW 1) are currently underway on a scheduled six month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as Maritime Security Operations. more

Operation Medusa: CVW1 Strike Missions Continue

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE - Catapult officer Lieutenant Commander Matt Foster launches an F/A-18C Hornet, attached to the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron One Three Six (VFA-136), from the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE - Catapult officer Lieutenant Commander Matt Foster launches an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron Two One One (VFA-211), from the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE - Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Wong Thao, of St. Paul, Minn., cleans ordnance staged in the bomb farm on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE - An F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the "Checkmates" of Strike Fighter Squadron Two One One (VFA-211), catches one of four arresting wires on the landing area of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. more

Iwo Jima Hosts COC for Commander, Amphibious Squadron Four/Iwo Jima ESG

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA LHD 7 - Capt. Brad Kyker is piped aboard during the change of command ceremony for Commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) FOUR on USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) September 8. Kyker relieved Capt. Sinclair Harris as PHIBRON FOUR and Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) Commander at the ceremony. Iwo Jima recently deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) more

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA LHD 7 -- Capt. Sinclair Harris receives the Legion of Merit during the change of command ceremony for Commder, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) FOUR aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) September 8. Iwo Jima recently deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) more

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA LHD 7 -- Capt. Sinclair Haris addresses the group during the change of command ceremony for Commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) FOUR aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) September 8. Iwo Jima recently deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) more

CTF 150 Visits USS Iwo Jima

USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7), at Sea - U.S. Navy Capt. Sinclair Harris, Commander, Amphibious Squadron Four, and German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 discuss the World War II battle for Iwo Jima during a visit to the ship Sept 2. Iwo Jima deployed June 6 from her homeport in Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). more

USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7), at Sea – Cmdr. Richard J. Paver, Iwo Jima's senior medical officer discusses the capabilities of the ship's operating rooms with German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, during a visit to the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship Sept. 2. Iwo Jima deployed June 6 from her homeport in Norfolk, Va., and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) areas of responsibility (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). more

USS Dextrous joins USS Ardent Underway for Maritime Security Operations

USS DEXTROUS, Arabian Gulf - The mine countermeasures ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13) got underway Sept. 1 from Mina Salman, Bahrain, to conduct maritime security operations (MSO). Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. more

USS Enterprise Returns to Fifth Fleet

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - The USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) returned to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility Aug. 28, to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and support Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. The focus of MSO is to prevent international terrorist organizations from using the maritime environment as a venue from which to launch attacks, move people, weapons or other material. more

USCG Patrol Boat Baranof rejoins CTF 158

Coast Guard Electronic Technician 2nd Class Shawn Swanson of Memphis, Tenn., stands Officer of the Deck watch on the bridge of U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Boat Baranof (WPB 1318). Baranof is one of several USCG ships forward deployed to the region conducting maritime security operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Sailors Aboard the USS Iwo Jima Transport Cargo

Aboard USS IWO JIMA LHD 7 - A Sailor on the flight deck directs a helo loaded with pallets during a vertical replenishment (VERTREP) with the USNS Saturn aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima left its homeport of Norfolk, Va., June 6, and began a regularly scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibilities (AOR) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. Theses operations deny international terrorists the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other materials.

Pakistan Navy Completes Term as Commander, Task Force 150

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain - Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal (center) shakes hands with German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange (right) after a change of command ceremony, Aug. 22, aboard Pakistani naval ship PNS Shahjahan in Mina Salman, Bahrain. Heinrich relieved Iqbal as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain - Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal (center) shakes hands with Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander, Combined Forces Maritime Component Command (right) after a change of command ceremony, Aug. 22, aboard Pakistani naval ship PNS Shahjahan in Mina Salman, Bahrain. Iqbal was relieved by German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange (left), as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain - German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange (left) speaks during a change of command ceremony, Aug. 22, aboard Pakistani naval ship PNS Shahjahan in Mina Salman, Bahrain. Heinrich relieved Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal SI (M) (center) as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain - Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander, Combined Forces Maritime Component Command (left), shakes hands with German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange, Commander, Task Force 150 (right) after a change of command ceremony aboard Pakistani naval ship PNS Shahjahan in Mina Salman, Bahrain, Aug. 22. Heinrich relieved Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal SI (M) (center) as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

MINA SALMAN, Bahrain - German Rear Adm. Heinrich Lange (left) speaks during a change of command ceremony, Aug. 22, aboard Pakistani naval ship PNS Shahjahan in Mina Salman, Bahrain. Heinrich relieved Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal SI (M) (right) as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150. CTF 150 is responsible for conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Navy Individual Augmentees Thrive with Army Civil Affairs

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq - Airman Stephanie Artea, a native of King City, Calif., mans the gun turret of a humvee and maintains perimeter security while in Al-Shu’llah, Iraq performing civil affairs missions . Artea is an individual augmentee attached to the 414th Civil Affairs Battalion’s Headquarters Company. more

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq - Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Justin Hoffman, a native of Munising, Mich., mans the gun turret of a humvee and maintains perimeter security while in Al-Shu’llah, Iraq performing civil affairs missions. Hoffman is an individual augmentee attached to the 414th Civil Affairs Battalion’s Headquarters Company. more

9th Navy Construction Regiment Prepares for Turnover

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Four Zero (NMCB-40) prepare a site for the construction of a bridge. NMCB-40 is one of four military engineering units that the 9th Navy Construction Regiment (NCR) has provided command and control for in Al Anbar, Iraq, during this six month deployment. The 9th NCR is completing their deployment as the first reserve regimental headquarters to be deployed to Iraq under its own pennant. more

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - A Seabee from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Four Zero (NMCB-40) works to secure the support beam of a generator shelter outside the command’s headquarters. NMCB-40 falls under the 9th Navy Construction Regiment, the first reserve regimental headquarters to be deployed to Iraq under its own pennant. more

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Four Zero (NMCB-40) work to secure a generator shelter support beam outside the command’s headquarters. NMCB-40 falls under the 9th Navy Construction Regiment, the first reserve regimental headquarters to be deployed to Iraq under its own pennant. more

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - A Seabee from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Four Zero (NMCB-40) drives a nail into the framework of a generator shelter outside the battalion’s headquarters. NMCB-40 falls under the 9th Navy Construction Regiment, the first reserve regimental headquarters to be deployed to Iraq under its own pennant. more

Navy Individual Augmentees Help Rebuild Al Anbar Province

CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq - U.S. Navy Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Handler (AW/SW) Michael Yule surveys pipes used for rebuilding projects at the Army Corps of Engineers laydown yards at Camp Fallujah, Iraq. Yule is an individual augmentee Sailor responsible for carrying out ACoE’s rebuilding efforts in the Al-Anbar Province. more

Iwo Jima Conducts Training in Mediterranean Sea

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) - Members from Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) team Detachment 26, based out of Little Creek, Va., are retrieved by a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter after performing a routine exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. Members of the team are currently deployed with USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), which is conducting Maritime Security operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO help deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) - ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) - Members from Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) team Detachment 26, based out of Little Creek Va., perform a training exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. Members of the team are currently deployed with USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), which is conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO help deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) - Explosive Ordinance Disposal 1st Class Eric Biwer, a native of Meskego, Wis. and member of Explosive Ordinance Disposal team Detachment 26 based out of Little Creek Va., is retrieved after conducting a routine exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. Members of the team are currently deployed with USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), which is conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO help deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7) - Explosive Ordinance Disposal 2nd Class Michael Painter, a native of Mesquite, Texas and member of Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) team Detachment 26 based out of Little Creek, Va. is retrieved after conducting a routine exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. Members of the team are currently deployed with USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), which is conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO help deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.

Italian Navy Assists Merchant Sailor

ARABIAN SEA - Italian Navy sailors from ITS Etna (A 5326) provided medical assistance to a Czech merchant sailor in distress in the Arabian Gulf on 8 August. An Italian Navy medical team was dispatched from Etna to the merchant ship and provided initial care to the patient, who was then transported via Italian Navy helicopter to a civilian hospital in the region. Etna is the flagship for Combined Task Force 152, commanded by Italian Navy Rear Adm. Salvatore Ruzittu. CTF 152 conducts Maritime Security Operations in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf as part of the Combined Maritime Force led by US Navy Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ Commander, U.S. Fifth Fleet.

UK Charts the way for Iraq’s Economic Future

Commodore Simon Williams Royal Navy, Deputy Coalition Forces Maritime Component Commander and UK Maritime Component Commander, presents the charts to Cdre Thamir Nasser, Operations Commander for the Iraqi Navy. more

File photo of Al Basrah Oil Terminal (ABOT). The terminal, along with the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAOT), both based in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) are a significant source of revenue for the Iraqi people and directly contribute to the reconstruction of the Iraqi economy. Deputy Coalition Forces maritime Component Commander, Royal Navy Commodore Simon Williams presented Iraqi Navy Commodore Thamir Nasser, operations commander for the Iraqi Navy, with new shipping charts of the NAG, along with the approaches to the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr. more

ARABIAN GULF (File Photo) - Hundreds of oil tankers each year receive their payload from Iraq’s Al Basrah Oil Terminal (ABOT) and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAOT), based in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG). These terminals are a significant source of revenue for the Iraqi people and directly contribute to the reconstruction of the Iraqi economy. Deputy Coalition Forces maritime Component Commander, Royal Navy Commodore Simon Williams presented Iraqi Navy Commodore Thamir Nasser, operations commander for the Iraqi Navy, with new shipping charts of the NAG, along with the approaches to the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr. more

Humanitarian Aid Reaches Lebanon

Ensign Robert Winters (left) and Chief Boatswain's Mate Ty Ehlers help secure a load of supplies. More than 100,000 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered to Beirut, Lebanon by the U.S. Navy's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), August 4, 2006. More than $2 million worth of humanitarian aid was donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and with the help of Islamic Relief Organization, will be disbursed to approximately 20,000 Lebanese citizens. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael B.W. Watkins. more

Chief Boatswain's Mate Ty Ehlers supervises forklift operations during offload operations in Beirut, Lebanon. More than 100,000 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered by the U.S. Navy's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), August 4, 2006. More than $2 million worth of humanitarian aid was donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and with the help of Islamic Relief Organization, will be disbursed to approximately 20,000 Lebanese citizens. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael B.W. Watkins. more

A Sailor and a member of the Islamic Relief Organization (IRO) wrap a pallet of supplies. More than 100,000 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered to Beirut, Lebanon by the U.S. Navy's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), August 4, 2006. More than $2 million worth of humanitarian aid was donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and with the help of IRO, will be disbursed to approximately 20,000 Lebanese citizens. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael B.W. Watkins. more

Sailors offload pallets of humanitarian aid in Beirut, Lebanon. More than 100,000 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered to Beirut, Lebanon by the U.S. Navy's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), August 4, 2006. More than $2 million worth of humanitarian aid was donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and with the help of Islamic Relief Organization, will be disbursed to approximately 20,000 Lebanese citizens. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael B.W. Watkins. more

More than 100,000 tons of humanitarian aid was delivered to Beirut, Lebanon by the U.S. Navy's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2), August 4, 2006. More than $2 million worth of humanitarian aid was donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and with the help of Islamic Relief Organization, will be disbursed to approximately 20,000 Lebanese citizens. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael B.W. Watkins. more

NSA Bahrain Donates MWR Equipment

BAGRAM, Afghanistan - Sailors attached to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, load fitness equipment donated from Naval Support Activity Bahrain's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department,= Aug. 1. MWR donated the equipment to the Provisional Reconstruction Team (PRT), which is helping the citizens of Afghanistan rebuild their country. more

NSA Opens Career Information Center

MANAMA, Bahrain - Capt. Mark Deardurff, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the opening of the Southwest Asia Regional Career Information Center July 31. NSA Bahrain Navy Counselors 1st Class Christy Miller (left) and Norma Glass (right) now have offices in the new building. Official U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cassandra Thompson. more

MANAMA, Bahrain - Capt. Mark Deardurff, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, cuts the commemorative cake at the opening of the Southwest Asia Regional Career Information Center July 31. Chief Navy Counselor Paul Stewart (left) who spearheaded the 5-month project, said it would not have been possible without the teamwork and assistance of several NSA Bahrain tenant commands. more

Task Force 59 Assists Departure of U.S. Citizens From Lebanon

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Williams checks over passports of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Gina Pronzati and her security police dog Lucky check a row of luggage belonging to U.S. citizens during a security screening process prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Brittany Paxton checks over information of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Sgt. Peter VanCleave checks over paperwork of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Williams checks over information of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert J. Fluegel more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Thomas Williams gives back passports after checking information of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to her being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mark Case and his security police dog Benny prepare to check a row of luggage belonging to U.S. citizens during a security screening process in Beirut, Lebanon, July 25, 2006, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Aaron Jones checks over information of American citizens during a security screening in Beirut, Lebanon, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-N-6214F-005 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mark Case and his security police dog Benny check the luggage of Americans departing for Cyprus from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-N-6214F-004 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Gina Pronzati and her security police dog Lucky, left, and Master-at-arms 2nd Class Mark Case and his security police dog Benny prepare to check a row of luggage belonging to U.S. citizens during a security screening process at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 25, 2006, prior to the Americans being transported to Cyprus. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-N-6214F-002 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Mark Case and his security police dog Benny relax before their next job of screening U.S. citizens and their luggage in Beirut, Lebanon, July 25, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060724-N-6214F-017 BEIRUT, Lebanon - American citizens prepare to depart the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, aboard a CH-53 helicopter July 24, 2006, en route to Cyprus. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060724-N-6214F-012 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Nicholas Hanhart helps an American citizen board a CH-53 helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, that will fly into Cyprus July 24, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-N-6214F-011 BEIRUT, Lebanon - American citizens in Lebanon prepare to depart the U.S. Embassy aboard a CH-53 helicopter July 24, 2006, headed to Cyprus. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-N-6214F-009 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Travis Borgialli, from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares an American child for her flight from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 24, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert J. Fluegel more

060725-N-6214F-006 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Rick Muston prepares an American child for his flight from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 24, 2006, to Cyprus. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060725-F-2185F-647 BEIRUT, Lebanon - Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice greets U.S. Marines upon her arrival at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 24, 2006. Rice, flown in from Cyprus on a Marine CH-53 helicopter escorted by an Air Force MH-53M Pave Low helicopter from the 352nd Special Operations Group at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, in the region to discuss the current mid-east crisis. more

060723-N-6403R-013 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marines assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit set up tents on the flight deck of USS Trenton (LPD 14) while assisting U.S. citizens arriving from Beirut, Lebanon, July 23, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060723-N-6403R-012 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marines assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit set up tents on the flight deck of USS Trenton (LPD 14) while assisting U.S. citizens arriving from Beirut, Lebanon, July 23, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060723-N-6403R-011 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens arriving from Beirut, Lebanon, rest in the hangar bay of the USS Trenton (LPD 14) July 23, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060722-N-9268E-017 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Sailors aboard the multipurpose, amphibious-assault ship USS Trenton (LPD 14) assist American citizens arriving from Beirut, Lebanon, July 22, 2006. USS Trenton is on a regularly scheduled deployment, and is assisting the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 with the departure of American citizens from Lebanon at the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense. more

Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia Changes Command

MANAMA, Bahrain - Capt. Gary Smialek (far right) relieves Capt. Daniel J. McClellan (left) as Commanding Officer of U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia and Commander, Task Force 55.6 in Bahrain, July 17. Vice Adm. D. Brian Peterman (center), commander of the Coast Guard Atlantic Area, presided over the ceremony. Official U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Allyson Taylor Feller. more

Authorized Departure From Lebanon

060722-N-6214F-003 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. Navy landing craft air cushion departs the shore in Lebanon after picking up American citizens July 22, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060722-N-6214F-015 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. Navy landing craft air cushion and the cruise ship Orient Queen pull away from Beirut, Lebanon, July 22, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

USS Barry Assists Departure Of U.S. Citizens

060719-N-8637R-002 CYPRUS - The guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) prepares to drop its small boat, Lexington, alongside while conducting small boat operations off the coast of Cyprus July 19, 2006. Barry was recently directed to assist in the departure of American citizens from Lebanon.

USS Trenton Sailors Provide Assistance

060721-N-0000X-20 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Navy Sailors provide cots to U.S. citizens in the well deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Trenton (LPD 14) in Beirut, Lebanon, July 21, 2006. Trenton and other ships of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group arrived on station as part of Task Force 59 to assist in the safe transportation of U.S. citizens departing Lebanon.

Bahrain-Based U.S. Marines Provide Security for Departing Americans

060718-N-6436W-018 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A group of U.S. Marines from Interim Marine Corps Security Force (IMCSF) Bahrain arrived here July 20 to provide security for the commercial vessel Orient Queen as it assists with the voluntary departures of U.S. citizens. more

USS Iwo Jima Helos Assist with Departures from Lebanon

ABOARD USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7)-based helicopters assigned to the Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 365 joined in the ongoing departure assistance efforts for American citizens in Lebanon, July 21. more

Iwo Jima ESG Arrives to Assist with Departure of American Citizens from Lebanon

060721-N-9268E-024 Sailors assist U.S. citizens departing a landing craft utility boat as they board USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. MORE

060721-N-9268E-026 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Chief Hospital Corpsman David Lally greets U.S. citizens as the enter USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. MORE

060721-N-9268E-025 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A woman comforts a small child after arriving on USS Trenton (LPD 14) via helicopter. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. MORE

060721-N-9999E-006 BEIRUT, Lebanon -- A USS Trenton Sailor (LPD 14) carries a child sleeping in a stroller from the ship’s landing craft utility boat aboard USS Trenton. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-002 USS TRENTON, At Sea – A USS Trenton Sailor hands a child to another Sailor onboard the ship today. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-008 USS TRENTON, At Sea – USS Trenton Sailors assist two young American citizens departing Lebanon. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-011 USS TRENTON, At Sea – USS Trenton (LPD 14) Sailors assist an American citizen as she boards the ship from a landing craft utility boat off the coast of Lebanon today. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-004 USS TRENTON, At Sea – A USS Trenton (LPD 14) Sailor carries a child as he boards the ship from a landing craft utility boat off the coast of Lebanon. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-003 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Sailors assist a woman as she boards the USS Trenton (LPD 14) from a landing craft utility boat off the coast of Lebanon. USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-001 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A Sailor carries a child aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14) as they board Trenton from a landing craft utility boat off the coast of Lebanon. Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-6893T-026 - USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13), At Sea - Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embarked aboard USS Nashville (LPD 13), assist an American citizen from the beach in Lebanon onto the ship’s landing craft utility boat. USS Nashville and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-013 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A Sailor checks U.S. citizens aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9999E-009 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A Sailor gives candy to a child, before helping him and other U.S. citizens onto a landing craft utility boat headed for USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-027 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Sailors assist U.S. citizens aboard a landing craft utility boat on its way to USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-016 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A Sailor processes paperwork for a woman boarding USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-014 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A Sailor carries a child aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-023 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A U.S. citizen waits to board USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-022 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Sailors assist a man transferring from a landing craft utility boat to USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-021 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - A helicopter, carrying U.S. citizens, arrives aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-020 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Two children play among U.S. citizens aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

060721-N-9268E-019 USS TRENTON (LPD 14), At Sea - Sailors assist a U.S. citizen and her child aboard USS Trenton (LPD 14). USS Trenton and other ships of Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) arrived on station today as part of Task Force 59. Commander, Task Force 59 is directing military support to the effort to safely transport American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon. more

American Citizens Depart Lebanon

060720-N-8637R-013 USS BARRY, At Sea - A Sailor assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) stands watch on the bridge wing during evacuation operations off the coast of Lebanon. The civilian ferry, Orient Queen, contracted to help evacuate American citizens is visible in the distance. Barry was recently directed to assist in the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060720-M-3599F-040 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens put on their cranial helmets and life preservers as they wait to board a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, for a flight to Cyprus on July 20, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060720-M-3599F-051 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A young child watches as he is secured into his seat aboard a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter in Beirut, Lebanon, for a flight to Cyprus on July 20, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060720-M-3599F-049 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens prepare to board a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, for a flight to Cyprus on July 20, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and elements of Task Force 59 are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060719-M-3599F-113 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. citizen holds a child as they wait to board a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060719-N-6436W-108 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens clear immigration in Beirut, Lebanon, before being transported to Cyprus aboard the cruise ship Orient Queen on July 19, 2006. The ship, under contract with the U.S. government, is part of the larger U.S. military mission to assist U.S. citizens in their departure from Lebanon.

060719-M-3599F-112 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. Marines help U.S. citizens as they wait to board a CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, for a flight to Cyprus on July 19, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060719-N-6436W-152 BEIRUT, Lebanon - Crew members from the cruise ship Orient Queen assist a U.S. citizen as she boards the ship in Beirut, Lebanon, for transport to Cyprus. The ship, under contract with the U.S. government, is part of the larger U.S. military mission to assist U.S. citizens in their departure from Lebanon.

Commander, Task Force 59 assess military assistance to american citizens departing lebanon

60719-M-3599F-153 CYPRUS - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, 2nd from right, Commander Task Force 59, helps U.S. citizens exit a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter in Cyprus, following their flight from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 19, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command is assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060719-M-3599F-074 CYPRUS - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, center, Commander Task Force 59, discusses operations to assist the departure of American citizens from Lebanon with U.S. Embassy officials in Beirut, Lebanon, July 19, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command is assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

060719-M-3599F-016 CYPRUS - U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, right, Commander Task Force 59, speaks with U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Jeffrey D. Feltman at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 19, 2006. Jensen arrived in Lebanon to discuss operations to assist the departure of American citizens from the country. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command is assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon.

Iwo Jima ESG Directed to Assist Departure of American Citizens from Lebanon

060715-N-6403R-006 USS IWO JIMA, At Sea - Onboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) an H-53 Sea Stallion from the Aviation Combat Element (ACE) flies off the flight deck. USS Iwo Jima is the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, which was recently directed to assist in the authorized departure of American citizens from Lebanon. The ESG is operating in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations and expects to be in place to provide assistance later in the week. more

060718-N-99990-001 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. citizen calms a child while traveling in a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter to Cyprus following their departure from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. The helicopters are attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365. more

060718-N-99990-002 CYPRUS - U.S. citizens exit a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter in Cyprus following their flight from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. The helicopters are attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365. more

060718-N-99990-0003 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. Marine helps a child look out the window of a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter during their departure from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. The helicopters are attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365. more

060718-N-99990-004 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens ride in a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter traveling from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. The helicopters are attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365. more

060718-N-99990-005 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. citizen puts on aircrew cranial's before boarding a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the 060718-N-99990-005 BEIRUT, Lebanon - Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060718-N-99990-006 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A man and his child prepare to be transported on a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060718-N-99990-007 BEIRUT, Lebanon - A U.S. citizen calms a child while they ride in a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, to Cyprus July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060718-N-99990-008 BEIRUT, Lebanon - U.S. citizens exit a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter in Cyprus following their flight from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, July 18, 2006. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are assisting with the departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060510-N-6403-001 USS IWO JIMA, At Sea - Quartermaster Third Class Russel L. Price plots the ship's course on the bridge during darken light conditions aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). USS Iwo Jima is the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, which was recently directed to assist in the authorized departure of American citizens from Lebanon. The ESG is operating in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations and expects to be in place to provide assistance later in the week. more

The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) conducts an underway replenishment with USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) in the Central Command area of operations July 19, 2006. Iwo Jima will assist in the authorized departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. more

060108-N-4781D-001 USS IWO JIMA, At Sea - The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) have been directed to assist in the authorized departure of American citizens in Lebanon. The ESG and MEU are operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and expect to be in place to provide assistance later this week. The Iwo Jima Strike Group includes the amphibious ships USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS Nashville (LPD 13) and USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). USS Trenton (LPD 14) and High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2) have also joined the strike group. The 24th MEU (special operations capable), commanded by Col. Ron Johnson, 24th MEU (SOC) is composed of its command element, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 (Reinforced) and the MEU Service Support Group 24. more

U.S. Contracts Cruise Ship for Possible Lebanon Evacuation

60718-N-6436W-018 BEIRUT, Lebanon - The cruise ship Orient Queen sits pierside in Lebanon July 18, 2006. The ship, under contract with the U.S. government, is part of the larger U.S. military mission to assist U.S. citizens in the authorized departure from Lebanon. The ship is expected to transport nearly 1,000 Americans to Cyprus. more

Swift Delivery Showcases Versatility

060712-N-0448N-001 SWIFT (HSV 2), At Sea – High Speed Vessel (HSV) Swift (HSV 2) crew members, from left, Gunner's Mate Seaman Dwight Stout of Susanville, Calif. and Gunner's Mate Seaman Apprentice Thomas Wolfe of Queen Creek, Ariz., prepare a pallet of supplies for transfer to Navy supply ship, USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), July 12. Swift used its high-speed and maneuverability to transport this cargo from Manama, Bahrain to Jebel Ali, U.A.E. in less than 12 hours, to deliver cargo to Supply. more

060712-N-0448N-003 SWIFT (HSV 2), At Sea – Crew members aboard High Speed Vessel (HSV) Swift (HSV 2) secure a pallet of supplies to Navy supply ship USNS Supply's (T-AOE 6) crane during a cargo transfer pier side in Jebel Ali, U.A.E. Swift used its high-speed and maneuverability to transport cargo from Manama, Bahrain to Jebel Ali, in less than 12 hours, to deliver this cargo to Supply. more

NSA Environmental Department Tests Oil Spill Recovery Concept

060626-N-3005P-001 062606-N-3005P-001 MANAMA, Bahrain - Workers from SEACOR Environmental Services deploy a boom device as part of the oil spill recovery concept that was tested at The Mina Salman Pier, June 26. The test enacted a scenario in which a nautical vessel spilled 250 gallons of fuel pierside. more

VCNO Visits NSA Bahrain Sailors

060709-N-9380A-001 MANAMA, Bahrain - Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Robert Willard, visited Sailors at Naval Support Activity Bahrain July 9, and conducted an all hands call for Sailors inside the base’s new Installation Services Support Center. Willard is currently taking part in an extensive tour of the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, visiting with Sailors and other service members throughout the 7.5 million square mile region. more

060709-N-3005P-003 MANAMA, Bahrain - Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Robert Willard, visited Sailors at Naval Support Activity Bahrain July 9, and conducted an all hands call for Sailors inside the base’s new Installation Services Support Center. Willard is currently taking part in an extensive tour of the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, visiting with Sailors and other service members throughout the 7.5 million square mile region. more

060709-N-3005P-002 MANAMA, Bahrain - Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Robert Willard visited Sailors at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, July 9, and conducted an all hands call for Sailors inside the base’s new Installation Services Support Center. Willard is currently taking part in an extensive tour of the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, visiting with Sailors and other service members throughout the 7.5 million square mile region. more

HSV 2 Swift's Crewmembers Show Off their Versatility

060706-N-8959T-005 - Yeoman 2nd Class Brian Lee, a survival and rescue (SAR) swimmer aboard the Navy’s High Speed Vessel, Swift (HVS 2), returns to the ship in a rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIB), July 6. Swift's crewmembers routinely train for, and work in, fields outside their official ratings. more

060706-N-8959T-071 - Engineman 2nd Class Joshua Milliser replaces oil filters aboard the Navy's High-Speed Vessel, Swift (HSV 2), July 6. Since April, Swift has operated in the U.S. Navy 5th Fleet area of operations as a logistic asset in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS Peleliu Strike Group Concludes Operations in 5th Fleet

060710-N-99990-001 FILE PHOTO – The USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) officially departed the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, July 9, where it had been conducting maritime security operations. The strike group has been deployed since Feb. 15 and is comprised of Peleliu, USS Ogden (LPD 5); USS Port Royal (CG 73); USS Reuben James (FFG 57); USS Gonzalez (DDG 68); USS Germantown (LSD 42); Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21; Tactical Air Control Squadron 11; Beach Master Unit 1; Assault Craft Unit 5; Assault Craft Unit 1 and Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit 11, Det. 15. more

Enterprise Concludes Operations in the Arabian Gulf

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – USS Enterprise (CVN 65), Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 successfully completed the first operational portion of their deployment, July 6. The carrier now heads to the Western Pacific to begin operations with U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet. more

Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Transits the Suez Canal

060704-N-7202W-012 Suez Canal - The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) transits through the Suez Canal, July 4, as part of a scheduled six-month deployment. The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship is the flag ship for the USS Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which now operates in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

U.S. Navy Assumes Command of Camp Lemonier

060701-N-4930E-074 - CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Fahey relieved Marine Corps Col. Gerard Fischer as commanding officer of Camp Lemonier during a change of command ceremony here, July 1. more

060701-N-9999D-027 CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - A Marine Corps color guard officially opens the Camp Lemonier change of command ceremony here, July 1. U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Fahey assumed command of the camp from Marine Corps Col. Gerard Fischer, which marks the first time the East-African-based facility is commanded by the U.S. Navy since the U.S. took control of the camp in May 2003. more

060701-N-9999D-098 CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. John Sattler hands over the U.S. Navy flag to Navy Capt. Robert Fahey to signify that the Navy has taken command of Camp Lemonier from the Marine Corps, July 1. Fahey assumed command of the camp from Marine Corps Col. Gerard Fischer during a change of command here, which marks the first time the Navy has commanded the facility since the U.S. took control of Camp Lemonier, May 2003. more

USS Reuben James Rescues Kenyan Sailors

060623-N-1924D-001 USS REUBEN JAMES, At Sea - USS Reuben James’ (FFG 57) Independent Duty Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (FMF/PJ) Matthew Breske (center) and Culinary Specialist Seaman (SW) Justin Brandenburg (left) give medical treatment to a Kenyan civilian sailor after rescuing him from the Arabian Sea. more

US Sailor Helps Coordinate Rescue Effort

060624-N-4930-002 MANAMA, Bahrain - Lt. j.g. Brad Fancher stands in front of COMUSNAVCENT where he serves as one of the commands watch commanders. Fancher was on duty and conducted rescues efforts when Indian-flagged vessel Kayana sank off the coast of Somalia. more

“Operation Thin Mint” Delivers Girl Scout Cookies to CENTCOM Personnel

060620-N-0448N-058 MANAMA, Bahrain - Chief of Naval Operations - Directed Master Chief (SW/AW) Kelly Schneider, Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/ U.S. 5th Fleet force master chief, delivers Girl Scout cookies to (from left) Legalman 1st Class (SW/AW) April Thruston, NAVCENT force/fleet paralegal, Cdr. Vida Antolin-Jenkins NAVCENT deputy force/fleet judge advocate and Lt. Jennie Goldsmith, NAVCENT assistant force judge advocate. San Diego Imperial Council Girl Scouts have shipped over 800,000 boxes of cookies to service members overseas since Operation Thin Mint began in 2002. more

060620-N-0448N-055 MANAMA, Bahrain - Chief of Naval Operations - Directed Master Chief (SW/AW) Kelly Schneider, NAVCENT/ U.S. 5th Fleet force master chief delivers a box of Girl Scout cookies to Hospitalman 2nd Class Cyrena Williams, NAVCENT force surgeon administration assistant. San Diego Imperial Council Girl Scouts have shipped over 800,000 boxes of cookies to service members overseas since Operation Thin Mint began in 2002. more

Australian Navy Cools Down the Oil Platforms for U.S. and Iraqi Sailors

060621-N-5928K-110 USS MCFAUL, Arabian Gulf - 060610-N-8959T-023 KHAWR AL AMAYA OIL TERMINAL, Iraq - Royal Australian Navy Able Seaman Marine Technician Andrew Toal, of Australian ship HMAS Ballarat (FFH 155), ties electrical wires together aboard Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) June 10. A Ballarat team of electricians rewired several buildings aboard KAAOT to make life safer and more convenient for U.S. and Iraqi Sailors stationed on the platform. more

Operations in the Northern Arabian Gulf

060614-N-9866B-188 Northern Arabian Gulf - June 14, 2006 – Royal Navy Lt. Stewart Parrott uses an alidade while serving as officer of the watch aboard Royal Navy frigate HMS Saint Albans (F 83) as the ship patrols Iraqi territorial waters in protection of the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT). Saint Albans is deployed to the region in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

060614-N-9866B-098 USCGC Maui, Northern Arabian Gulf – U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Matthew Kolodica, the commanding officer of the white patrol boat USCGC Maui (WPB-1304), drives his cutter toward the ship's rigged hull inflatable boat (RHIB) and an Iraqi tug as the Coast Guardsmen conduct a security sweep of the tug before it's permitted to approach the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT). Maui is deployed to the region in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

060614-N-9866B-085 USCGC Maui, Northern Arabian Gulf - U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Matthew Kolodica, the commanding officer of the white patrol boat USCGC Maui (WPB-1304), talks to another ship in the region while his cutter’s rigged hull inflatable boat (RHIB) departs for a security sweep of a tug boat before it’s permitted to approach the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) June 14. Maui is deployed to the region in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

060614-N-9866B-044 Northern Arabian Gulf - June 14, 2006 – From inside the helicopter deck control, Mini Boss Lt. Roy Zeltski talks with personnel on the flight deck as a CH-46E Seahawk helicopter, assigned to HMM-166, launches from the amphibious transport dock USS Ogden (LPD 5). Ogden serves as the afloat forward staging base for Commander, Task Force 158, which is currently conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

060614-N-9866B-001 Northern Arabian Gulf - June 14, 2006 – Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Mikkel Shields, a small boat crewman, kneels on the edge of his rigged hull inflatable boat (RHIB) as it approaches the amphibious transport dock USS Ogden (LPD 5) with mail for a ship in the region. Ogden serves as the afloat forward staging base for Commander, Task Force 158 and is currently conducting Maritime Security Operations in the North Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

060529-N-8959T-086 Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Ronnie Pimental, attached to USS Ogden (LPD 5), grills barbecue ribs for Mobile Security Detachment (MSD 71 Sailors stationed aboard Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) May 29. Culinary Specialists prepared fresh, hot meals for the Sailors as often as possible, giving them a welcome break from the traditional "Meals on Keels." MSD 71 is currently assigned to security detail aboard KAAOT in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure to help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

NSA Bahrain Opens New NEX/MWR Complex

060613-N-0448N-001 MANAMA , Bahrain – Naval Support Activity Bahrain's new Installation Services Support Center (ISSC) officially opened for business June 15. The “Freedom Souq” is an 188,000-square-foot complex that houses the Navy Exchange (NEX); various Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities; Navy Federal Credit Union; and post office. The ISSC consolidates businesses and services that until recently were scattered throughout the installation, taking up space in more than 20 separate buildings. more

060613-N-0448N- 002 MANAMA , Bahrain – Naval Support Activity Bahrain's new Installation Services Support Center (ISSC) officially opened for business, June 15. The “Freedom Souq” is an 188,000-square-foot complex that houses the base's Navy Exchange, Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities, Navy Federal Credit Union, and post office. The ISSC consolidates businesses and services that until recently were scattered throughout the installation, taking up space in more than 20 separate building. more

060615-N-6824E-009 MANAMA, Bahrain - Two Naval Support Activity Bahrain Sailors stand prepared for the ribbon cutting ceremony of the base's new Installation Services Support Center (ISSC), June 15, 2006. The “Freedom Souq” is an 188,000-square-foot complex that houses the Navy Exchange (NEX), various Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities, Navy Federal Credit Union, and post office. The ISSC consolidates businesses and services that, until recently, were scattered throughout the installation, taking up space in more than 20 separate buildings. more

060615-N-5863B-084 MANAMA, Bahrain-- Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet takes part in a cake cutting ceremony June 15, along with Col. Lawrence Sansone, senior U.S. Army Corps of Engineers representative; and Mr. Michael Good, director of NEX operations, during the opening of Naval Support Activity Bahrain's new Installation Services Support Center (ISSC). Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot ISSC, named "Freedom Souq," houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities; post office; and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

060615-N-5863B-084 MANAMA, Bahrain-- Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet takes part in a ribbon cutting ceremony June 15, along with Col. Lawrence Sansone, senior U.S. Army Corps of Engineers representative; and Mr. Michael Good, director of NEX operations, during the opening of Naval Support Activity Bahrain's new Installation Services Support Center (ISSC). Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot ISSC, named "Freedom Souq," houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities; post office; and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

060615-N-0448N-038 Sailors crowd Navy Exchange (NEX) check-out lines just moments after its grand-opening ribbon cutting ceremony at Naval Support Activity Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot Installation Services Support Center (ISSC), named "Freedom Souq." The ISCC houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities; post office; and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

060615-N-0448N-029 A shopper checks out the deli meat counter at the Navy Exchange (NEX) just moments after its grand-opening ribbon cutting ceremony at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, June 15. The NEX is part of NSA Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot Installation Services Support Center, named "Freedom Souq," which houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation facilities; post office, and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

060615-N-0448N-027 Personnel Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Stephanie Watkins glances at the assortment of items at the Navy Exchange (NEX) just moments after its grand-opening ribbon cutting ceremony at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain June 15. The NEX is part of NSA Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot Installation Services Support Center (ISSC), named "Freedom Souq," which houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities; post office; and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

060615-N-0448N-020 Chief Interior Communications Specialist Ray Perez grabs a slice of cake after the Navy Exchange (NEX) grand-opening ribbon cutting ceremony at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain June 15. The NEX is part of NSA Bahrain's new 188,000 square-foot Installation Services Support Center (ISSC), named "Freedom Souq," which houses the NEX; various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities; post office; and Navy Federal Credit Union under one roof. more

USS McFaul Makes Port Visit to Bahrain

060529-N-9742R-385 FILE PHOTO - The guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74), seen here in Suez, Egypt, visits Manama, Bahrain, for its first port visit since entering the 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO). McFaul, part of the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Carrier Strike Group, will conduct MSO while in the AOO. more

Commander 5th Fleet Visits Enterprise

060611-N-6524M-002 Arabian Gulf - Rear Adm. Raymond Spicer, Commander, Enterprise Strike Group, (right) greets Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander, 5th Fleet/U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), June 11. During his visit, Walsh took the opportunity to praise the carrier's leadership for the job the crew is doing. Enterprise is currently deployed as part of a routine rotation of U.S. maritime forces in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. more

Iraqi Naval Officers Join Coalition Leaders at CO's Conference

060606-N-8959T-072 - NORTH ARABIAN GULF - Capt. David Matawitz, USS Port Royal (CG 73) commanding officer, shares a light-hearted moment with Cmdr. Steve Dainton, HMS St. Albans commanding officer, at the Commander, Task Group 158.1 CO's Conference, June 6. Commanding officers from U.S. and coalition vessels in the North Arabian Gulf, along with coalition training team and mobile security detachment representatives, attended the conference to discuss joint operations and training objectives in the region. more

Enterprise Strike Group Begins Operations in the Arabian Gulf

060507-N-0119G-001 FILE PHOTO - The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group (CSG) has entered the Arabian Gulf and has began Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations. Enterprise CSG, which consists of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47), guided missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), guided missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) and Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), are currently on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, while also conducting MSO. Also pictured with the strike group is the guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), which is currently on a surge deployment. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

USS Port Royal Executes Underway Potable Water Exchange with USS Chinook

060606-N-8959T-034 USS PORT ROYAL, at sea - The crew of USS Port Royal (CG 73) executes an underway potable water exchange with USS Chinook (PC9) June 6 in the North Arabian Gulf. Port Royal and Chinook are deployed to the 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO also deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

060606-N-8959T-070 USS PORT ROYAL, at sea - USS Chinook (PC 9) prepares to pull alongside USS Port Royal (CG 73) June 6 to conduct an underway potable water exchange. Port Royal and Chinook are deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO also deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

060606-N-8959T-023 USS PORT ROYAL, at sea - Only a handshake separates Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Hanson, executive officer of USS Port Royal, from Lt. Cmdr. Joe Finocchio, commanding officer of USS Chinook (PC 9), as the two ships pull alongside each other to conduct an underway potable water exchange, June 6. Port Royal and Chinook are deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO also deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

NSA Bahrain Welcomes New Commanding Officer

060601-N-3005P-001-Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain – Commanding Officer Captain Gary D. Galloway renders one last salute as he is relieved by Capt. Mark J. Deardurff during a change of command ceremony here June 1. NSA's mission is to provide security, administrative, and logistics support to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander Fifth Fleet, and the 76 tenant commands that call NSA home. more

060601-N-3005P-002 Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain – Captain Gary D. Galloway reads his orders during a change of command ceremony here June 1. Galloway served as commanding officer for 12 months. He was relieved by Capt. Mark J. Deardurff. NSA's mission is to provide security, administrative, and logistics support to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander Fifth Fleet, and the 76 tenant commands that call NSA home. more

060601-N-3005P-003 Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain – Capt. Mark J. Deardurff relieved Capt. Gary D. Galloway during a change of command ceremony here June 1. NSA's mission is to provide security, administrative, and logistics support to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander Fifth Fleet, and the 76 tenant commands that call NSA home. more

060601-N-3005P-004 Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain – Outgoing Commanding Officer Gary D. Galloway gives his departing remarks before being officially relieved by Capt. Mark J. Deardurff. NSA's mission is to provide security, administrative, and logistics support to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander Fifth Fleet, and the 76 tenant commands that call NSA home. Galloway served as commanding officer for twelve months. more

Sailors Save Iraqi Contract Worker

060526-N-9237C-036 - Chief Hospital Corpsman Doreen Lehner of USS Port Royal (CG 73) accompanies an Iraqi victim of smoke inhalation to USS Peleliu (LHA 5) May 26 for higher echelon treatment. Lehner, along with Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Heather Watts, also of Port Royal, were instrumental in saving the life of the Iraqi contract worker. more

HMS Bulwark Thwarts Fuel Smuggling

060515-O-99990-001 HMS BULWARK, At Sea – HMS Bulwark (L 15) and elements of its airborne and boat boarding teams intercept a suspicious vessel in the Indian Ocean. Bulwark is currently conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in Middle East regional waters. Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. more

RHIB Teams are Driving Force in NAG

060415-N-9866B-150 Northern Arabian Gulf - May 26, 2006 – Coxswain Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class (SW) Jesus Hernandez, assigned to the guided missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73), drives his rigged hull inflatable boat (RHIB) toward the Khwar al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) in the Northern Arabian Gulf. Working on the oil terminal are about 15 American Sailors assigned to Mobile Security Squadron Seven Detachment 71, who are providing training for the Iraqi security forces and serving as a back-up force for attacks. more

Navy and Coast Guard Join Forces in Arabian Gulf

060414-N-6282W-002 NORTH ARABIAN GULF at sea – The patrol craft USS Whirlwind (PC 11) protects Iraq's oil terminals in the North Arabian Gulf. Attached to Commander Task Group 158.1, Whirlwind is on deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

060526-N-9866B-072 - NORTH ARABIAN GULF, at sea – The patrol craft USS Whirlwind (PC 11) completes sector patrols around the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT) in Iraqi territorial waters. Whirlwind, assigned to Commander Task Group 158.1, is deployed to the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of maritime security operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the Gulf and protect Iraq 's sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

RAF's Red Arrows Perform in Bahrain

060528-N-9380A-060 - MANAMA, Bahrain - The United Kingdom's Royal Air Force Red Arrows flight demonstration team performs aerial displays above the city of Manama, Bahrain, May 28. The flight team is currently on a tour of the Middle East showcasing the skills honed with years serving with the British Royal Air Force. more

Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Concludes Operations in the Arabian Gulf

060315-N-7130B-021 FILE PHOTO – The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike group concluded military operations in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations, May 29. Embarked aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) is Carrier Strike Group Seven (CSG 7) and Destroyer Squadron Seven (DESRON 7). Other ships in the strike group are the guided missile cruiser, USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), guided-missile destroyers USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS Decatur (DDG 73), and the fast combat support ship USS Rainier (T-AOE 7). Additionally, Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit 11, Detachment 15 was deployed with the strike group, which conducted Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region since February. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. more

Iraqi Oil Terminal Fire Burns Itself Out

060526-O-99990-001 - KHAWR AL AMAYA OIL TERMINAL, North Arabian Gulf - A fire aboard the Iraqi Khawr Al Amaya oil terminal (KAAOT) burns in the North Arabian Gulf, May 26, 2006. Initial reports indicate that the fire was caused by contract work being performed on the terminal's pumping system. Personnel aboard the terminal are being evacuated, with a small number remaining aboard to continue firefighting efforts. more

060526-N-8959T-038 U.S. sea and air assets i Coalition naval assets in the North Arabian Gulf assist during a fire aboard the Iraqi Khawr Al Amaya (KAAOT) oil terminal when it caught on fire, May 26. Initial reports indicate that the fire was caused by contract work being performed on the terminal's pumping system. Personnel aboard KAAOT are being evacuated, with a small number remaining aboard to continue firefighting efforts. more

060526-N-8959T-056 Coalition naval assets in the North Arabian Gulf assist during a fire aboard the Iraqi Khawr Al Amaya (KAAOT) oil terminal when it caught on fire, May 26. Initial reports indicate that the fire was caused by contract work being performed on the terminal's pumping system. Personnel aboard KAAOT are being evacuated, with a small number remaining aboard to continue firefighting efforts. more

Port Royal Female Sailors Enjoy Challenge of VBSS Team

060523-N-1467K-021 North Arabian Gulf – Information Systems Technician Second Class Melissa Watson (left), and Cryptologic Technician Collections Courtney Grishaber remove their Visit, Board, Search and Seizure(VBSS ) operational gear and prepare to stow it away aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73), May 23. The two Sailors are some of the first females to graduate from the VBSS school and now take part in VBSS operations through out the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations. Port Royal is assigned to Expeditionary Strike Group Three which is currently deployed in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). These operations help s et the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq 's sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

USS Port Royal Celebrates Midpoint of Deployment

060513-N-1467K-008 USS PORT ROYAL, North Arabian Gulf – (From Left) Interior Communications Specialist 3rd Class John Truax, Electronics Technician 2nd Class Ronald Dixon and Enginemen Fireman Jehrad Lamb play a song at the Morale Welfare Recreation's “Port Royal Idol” competition on the ship's mess decks. The ship is halfway through a six-month deployment and is currently conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG). MSO help s et the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq 's sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

MSD 71 Supports Maritime Security Operations

060515-N-1467K-003 KHAWR AL AMAYA OIL TERMINAL, North Arabian Gulf - Master at Arms Second Class (SW) Brian Day, a sailor assigned to Mobile Security Detachment (MSD) 71 makes a report on the oil terminal’s radio here, May 15. MSD 71 is currently on a six month deployment to the oil platforms in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). These operations help set the conditions for security and stability in the North Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

Ronald Reagan Underway Following Third Port Visit to United Arab Emirates

060514-N-4776G-222 Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes Palm Island prior to arriving in Jebel Ali for a port visit to Dubai. Reagan is currently deployed as part of a routine rotation of U.S. maritime forces in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. more

Boarding Officers' Conference Supports Maritime Security Operations

Altered 060517-N-1467K-048 Northern Arabian Gulf (May 17, 2006) – U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Maui (WPB 1304) boarding team members Boatswain Mate 3rd Class Russell Howard, left, and Boatswain Mate 3rd Class Jeremy Culican, left, pilot a rigid hull inflatable boat while operating in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG). Boarding members from Maui, including other U.S. Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps personnel and their Australian counterparts, participated in a Commander Task Group (CTG) 158.1 boarding officers' conference aboard Australian ship HMAS Ballarat (FFH 155) on May 14. Throughout the conference attendees discussed their experiences with maritime security operations (MSO) in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO help s et the conditions for security and stability in the NAG and protect Iraq 's sea-based infrastructure which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. more

USS Ogden Serves as Afloat Forward Staging Base

030822-N-3211R-002 FILE PHOTO - The USS Ogden (LPD 5), seen here in a photo dated Aug. 22, 2003, is currently serving as the Afloat Forward Staging Base for multi-national maritime coalition operating in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG). Ogden, as a part of the Expeditionary Strike Group 3, is providing logistical support for the U.S. Navy and coalition forces that protect Iraq's territorial waters and oil platforms, as well as performing Maritime Security Operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

USS Decatur Conducts Maritime Security Operations

051306-N-9546C-001 ABOARD USS DECATUR, At sea - A French Navy Panther helicopter lands on USS Decatur's (DDG 73) flight deck while underway in the North Arabian Sea. On May 5, Decatur joined a coalition task force led by French nuclear-powered surface vessel FS Charles de Gaulle (R 91), which is currently providing air support to U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan. Decatur is deployed to the region in support of Maritime Security Operations. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. more

NSA Bahrain Hosts Force Surgeon's Senior Leadership Conference

060429-N-8959T-015 Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) hosted the semi-annual U.S. Central Command Force Surgeons' Senior Leadership Conference April 28-29 at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain . Every six months, senior medical leadership from the CENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR) meet to discuss tactical, operational and strategic objectives as they relate to medical care in the region now and in the future. more

Commander U.S. Central Command Visits U.S. Naval Forces Central Command

060508-N-9380A-015 U.S. Army General John Abizaid, commander, U.S. Central Command (center), participates in a briefing provided by Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal, commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 8. CTF 150 conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman , Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea . Pakistan is the first regional country to take leadership of a maritime coalition task force. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

060508-N-9380A-016 U.S. Army General John Abizaid, commander, U.S. Central Command (center), visits with Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal, commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 (left), and other command personnel during a visit to CTF 150 headquarters at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 8. CTF 150 conducts Maritime Security Operations in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman , Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea . Pakistan is the first regional country to take leadership of a maritime coalition task force. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

060508-N-9380A-029 U.S. Army General John Abizaid, commander U.S. Central Command, (second from right) and Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. Navy 5th Fleet (right), visit with Pakistani Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal, commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 (left), at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 8. CTF 150 conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman , Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea . Pakistan is the first regional country to take leadership of a maritime coalition task force. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

060508-N-9380A-019 U.S. Army General John Abizaid, commander U.S. Central Command (second form left), and Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. Navy 5th Fleet (left), speak with Pakistani Lt. Cmdr. Umar Hayat at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 8. Pakistan is the first regional country to take command of Combined Task Force 150. The task force conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman , Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea . MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

060508-N-9380A-032 U.S. Army General John Abizaid, commander, U.S. Central Command (second from right), and Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. Navy 5th Fleet (right) visit Rear Adm. Shahid Iqbal commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 (left) and his staff at CTF 150 headquarters at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, May 8. CTF 150 conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman , Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea . Pakistan is the first regional country to take leadership of a maritime coalition task force. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.