News from the Fleet - 2008
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Combined Task Force Changes Command
MANAMA, Bahrain – Rear Adm. Thomas Cropper, Deputy Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), relieved Royal Australian Navy Commodore Bruce Kafer as Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 158 in a simple ceremony held at NAVCENT Headquarters Bahrain, Dec. 30.
Medal of Honor Recipient Visits Iwo Jima ESG for Holiday
MANAMA, Bahrain -- Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Reserve Affairs, the Honorable H.C. “Barney” Barnum, Jr., visited ships from the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) to meet with deployed Sailors and Marines Dec. 24-26.
Coalition Ships Seize 20 Tons of Drugs
MANAMA, Bahrain - Coalition warships operating in the North Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 have seized more than 20 tons of narcotics since October, with an estimated value of over $100 million.
MSS 3 Provides Force Protection for Tippecanoe
USNS TIPPECANOE, At Sea – Sailors from Mobile Security Squadron Three (MSS 3) are providing force protection for the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) while the ship conducts operations in the Gulf of Aden.
Chief of Naval Operations Visits Iwo Jima ESG
MANAMA, Bahrain -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West visited ships from the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) to meet deployed Sailors and Marines Dec. 19.
Congressional Representatives Make Holiday Visit to Iwo Jima ESG
MANAMA, Bahrain – Congressional representatives paid a visit to the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) Dec. 19 to thank Sailors and Marines for their service during the holiday season.
Adm. Roughead and MCPON West Visit Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick D. West visited Bahrain Dec. 18 - 19 to meet with Sailors and Marines currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).
San Antonio Welcomes Washington, Tennessee Congressmen
USS SAN ANTONIO, At Sea – Congressional delegates from the U.S. House of Representatives’ visited Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) Dec. 5.
Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff Visits Iwo Jima
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea -- Gen Babakir Al-Zibari, Iraqi Joint Forces Chief of Staff, along with Rear Adm. Kendall Card, Commander Task Force (CTF) 51, visited the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Dec. 15, in the Arabian Gulf.
Secretary Of Defense Visits Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates visited U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) headquarters in Bahrain, prior to the start of the 5th annual International Institute for Strategic Studies Manama Dialogue, which begins later today.
NAVCENT Conducts Crisis Response Exercise
MANAMA, Bahrain – Joint Task Force Crisis Response (JTF-CR), led by Vice. Adm. Bill Gortney, conducted Exercise Internal Look 2009, a crisis response exercise that measured and enhanced the capabilities of U.S. forces to respond to a natural disaster in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of operations (AOO).
President of Afghanistan Visits USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)
USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At Sea –Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan flew aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Dec. 11 for his first-ever visit to a U.S. aircraft carrier.
HSL-42 Detachment One Supports MSO aboard Vella Gulf
USS VELLA GULF, At Sea – Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 Detachment One conducts a variety of missions that support Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) while embarked aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72).
Iraq and Kuwait Navies Sign Protocol
KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait – Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, traveled to Kuwait’s naval base to witness top leaders from the Iraqi and Kuwaiti navies sign an interoperability protocol, Nov. 11.
Secretary of the Navy Visits San Antonio
MANAMA, Bahrain – The Honorable Donald C. Winter, Secretary of the Navy, visited Bahrain Nov. 24 to meet with U.S. and Coalition leaders and Sailors at the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Headquarters.
Vella Gulf VBSS Team Keeps Skills Sharp
USS VELLA GULF, At Sea – Sailors from the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf’s (CG 72) visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team conduct weekly training to keep their skills fresh while deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
USS Theodore Roosevelt Marks One Month in Support of OEF
USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At sea – USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 concluded their first month of combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) after relieving USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in the Arabian Sea Oct. 18.
Surface Navy Association Visits USS San Antonio
MANAMA, Bahrain – Members of the Surface Navy Association (SNA) Arabian Gulf Chapter, Combined Maritime Forces and Adm. Bill Gortney, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), visited USS San Antonio (LPD 17) Nov. 12 highlighting the Navy’s newest amphibious ship class.
Super Tanker Attacked in Arabian Sea
MANAMA, Bahrain – The very large crude tanker Sirius Star was attacked more than 450 nautical miles southeast of Mombasa, Kenya.
Royal Bahraini Air Force General Visits USS Iwo Jima
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – Royal Bahrain Air Force Brig. Gen. Maher Al-Musallam and other Bahraini officers paid a visit to the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Nov. 5.
Bahrain Surface Navy Association Members Visit USS Dextrous
MANAMA, Bahrain – Members of the Surface Navy Association (SNA) Arabian Gulf Chapter visited USS Dextrous (MCM 13) Oct. 27 highlighting the Navy's ability to hunt and sweep mines, a core element of the Navy’s Mine Warfare (MIW) program.
Defense Department Authorizes Adult Family Members to Return to Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain – Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) in cooperation with the American Embassy in Bahrain announced today that adult family members for all Department of Defense personnel permanently assigned in Bahrain will be allowed to return effective immediately.
CTF 55 Helps Provide Security in the Gulf
MANAMA, Bahrain – Men and women of Destroyer Squadron 50 as Commander Task Force (CTF) 55 help secure the Arabian Gulf by conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations (AOO).
Sailors Work Hand-in-Hand with Iraqis Aboard Carter Hall
USS CARTER HALL, At Sea -- Iraqi Sailors and Marines are integrating into shipboard life aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) while operating as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158.
CTF 150 Concludes Exercise Goalkeeper
GULF OF ADEN - Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 concluded a five-day exercise in the Gulf of Aden, aimed at improving the capabilities of Coalition partners to counter human trafficking as well as the smuggling of weapons and drugs.
Five Attacks Thwarted in Gulf of Aden
MANAMA, Bahrain – Five piracy attempts occurred yesterday in the Gulf of Aden; they were all unsuccessful as a result of pro-active measures taken by masters and crews of the commercial shipping vessels.
Carter Hall Serves as an Afloat Staging Base
USS CARTER HALL, At Sea - Amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) is currently serving as an Afloat Forward Staging Base (AFSB) in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG) as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158.
Theodore Roosevelt Launches First Sorties in Support of OEF
ABOARD USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT IN THE GULF OF OMAN – The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group launched its first sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Oct. 18 and assumed duties as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50.
Combined Task Force 158 Changes Command
NORTH ARABIAN GULF – Royal Australian Navy Commodore Bruce Kafer relieved Rear Adm. Kendall Card as Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 158 during a ceremony held at the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT), October 17.
Reagan Resumes OEF Missions
ABOARD USS RONALD REAGAN IN THE GULF OF OMAN — Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 launched from the deck of USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) on Oct. 5, resuming sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
Combined Task Force 53 Maintains Supply Lines
MANAMA, Bahrain – Combined Task Force 53 (CTF-53) provides operational logistical support for the U.S. 5th Fleet and Coalition forces both ashore and afloat, a mission that is essential for ensuring security and stability in the region.
NSA Weapons Department Supports NAVCENT
MANAMA, Bahrain – Prior to deploying to places such as Iraq, Afghanistan or the Iraqi Oil Platforms, Sailors must be qualified on the M9 service pistol.
Several U.S. Ships Join Mission to Monitor Faina
MANAMA, Bahrain – Several U.S. ships are now operating in the vicinity of Motor Vessel Faina, the Belize-flagged cargo ship, which was captured Sept. 25 and is anchored off the coast of Somalia near the harbor city of Hobyo.
USS Howard Monitoring MV Faina
MANAMA, Bahrain – The U.S. 5th Fleet continues to actively monitor the situation with Motor Vessel Faina, the Belize-flagged cargo ship, which was captured Sept. 25.
San Antonio Transits the Suez Canal
USS SAN ANTONIO, At Sea – The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) made its first transit through the Suez Canal as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Sept. 23.
Combined Task Force 152 Changes Hands
MANAMA, Bahrain – Rear Adm. Phil Wisecup relieved Royal Navy Commodore Peter Hudson as commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 at the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Headquarters, Sept. 28.
Security Team Warns Would-be Attackers
USNS JOHN LENTHALL, OFF THE COAST OF SOMALIA – An embarked security team aboard the United States Naval Ship (USNS) John Lenthall (AO 189) fired warning shots in the vicinity of two small boats, Sept. 23. There were no reports of casualties.
Combined Task Force 150 Thwarts Criminal Activities But Threats in the Region Persist
BAHRAIN, Manama – Since the inception of the Maritime Security Patrol Area (MSPA), Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 has helped deter more than a dozen attacks in the Gulf of Aden. However, criminals have still successfully targeted several vessels in the region.
Denmark Assumes Command of Combined Task Force 150
MANAMA, Bahrain –Danish Royal Navy Commodore Per Bigum Christensen assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 from Canadian Commodore Bob Davidson during a Change-of-Command ceremony held on board HMCS Iroquois Sept. 15, in Manama, Bahrain.
USS Thach Promotes Maritime Security
USS Thach (FFG 43) is operating in the Arabian Gulf to help provide security and stability in the maritime environment and help create a lawful maritime order as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 152.
USS Abraham Lincoln Departs 5th Fleet
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At sea – The Nimitz-Class Aircraft Carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW 2) departed the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) Sept. 3.
Reagan Launches First Sorties in Support of OEF
ABOARD USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN 76), At Sea – The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group assumed the duties as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 Aug. 28, and launched its first sorties into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Abraham Lincoln Hosts Chairman, CENTCOM
NORTH ARABIAN SEA -- Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen, Commander, Multi-National Force, Iraq Army Gen. David Petraeus, Commander, International Security Assistance Force Gen. David McKiernan, Commander, Special Operations Command Adm. Eric Olson, Acting Commander, Central Command Lt. Gen. Martin Dempsey and several other high-ranking military officials visited USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Aug. 26-27.
Mullen awards HS2 Sailor the Navy/Marine Corps Medal
NORTH ARABIAN SEA -- Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen presented the Navy/Marine Corps Medal to Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class (AW) Jesse P. Hubble aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Aug. 27.
NAVCENT Hosts Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs
MANAMA, Bahrain – Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), welcomed Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency, Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmad Bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa to the command’s headquarters in Manama, Aug. 28.
Combined Task Force 152 Conducts Exercise Goalkeeper
MANAMA, Bahrain – Ships from Bahrain, the U.K. and the U.S. are currently conducting Exercise Goalkeeper in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf to train across the spectrum of Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
Maritime Security Patrol Area to be Established
MANAMA, Bahrain – The Commander, U.S. Naval Central Command has directed the establishment of a Maritime Security Patrol Area (MSPA) in the Gulf of Aden. A force of Coalition Navy warships will patrol the area, and aircraft will fly in the airspace above.
USS Firebolt Makes Port Visit to Iraq
UMM QASR, Iraq – As part of Iraq Navy Day celebrations, USS Firebolt (PC 10) made a port visit to Umm Qasr, Iraq Aug. 13, marking the first visit by a U.S. ship to Iraq in more than 15 months.
Chief of Naval Operations, MCPON Visit Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SW/FMF) Joe R. Campa Jr. visited Bahrain Aug. 10 to 12 and meet with U.S. and Coalition leaders and Sailors currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
Lincoln Sailors Experience New Zealand Ship
ABOARD USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN—Ten Sailors from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visited the Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Mana (F111) during a crew exchange.
CTF 158 Commander Visits Peleliu
USS PELELIU, At Sea - Rear Adm. Kendall L. Card, Commander Task Force (CTF) 158 visited USS Peleliu (LHA 5) July 22-23 to thank the ship’s crew for their hard work in the Combined Maritime Forces area of operations.
Surface Navy Association Members Visit USS Benfold
MANAMA, Bahrain - USS Benfold (DDG 65) conducted a tour for the Surface Navy Association (SNA) Bahrain Chapter, July 24 highlighting the Navy’s ability to search, track, hand-off and intercept ballistic missiles—a core element of our Navy’s Ballistic Missile Defense program (BMD).
Kelley Relieves Dropp as Logistics Force Central Command
BAHRAIN – Capt. Anthony H. Dropp was relieved as Commander, Logistics Forces U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ Commander, Sealift Logistics Command Central/ Commander, Task Force FIVE THREE by Capt. Stephen H. Kelley during a change of command ceremony held at the military aviation unit at Bahrain International Airport July 17.
French Ship Surcouf Assists Vessel In Distress
FS SURCOUF, At Sea – July 18, French Ship Surcouf (F711) operating as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, provided assistance at sea to the Panamanian-flagged Motor Vessel Karam Allah, which suffered engine failure nine days earlier after it ran out of fuel off the coast of Oman.
Coalition Ships Rescue Crew of Sunken Vessel
OFF KUWAITI COAST – Late Friday night, a civilian Kuwaiti vessel with four people on board sank 15 miles off the Kuwaiti coast.
Coalition Navy Ships Seize 23 Tons of Drugs in Gulf Region’s “Hash Highway”
MANAMA, Bahrain - Royal Navy warships operating in the Gulf region as part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) have seized 23 tons of narcotics which could have helped to fund the insurgency fighting Coalition forces in Afghanistan.
Peleliu Sailors Visit Children’s Center in Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain –Sailors assigned to USS Peleliu (LHA 5) visited the Ria Center in Bahrain to spend time with local children as part of a community relations (COMREL) project July 7.
USS Momsen Assists Motor Vessel in Arabian Sea
USS Momsen (DDG 92) and its embarked helicopter detachment provided assistance at sea to Motor Vessel Lehmann Timber July 14.
Combined Task Force 158 Changes Hands
NORTH ARABIAN GULF – Rear Adm. Kendall Card relieved Royal Navy Commodore Duncan Potts as commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158 during a ceremony held on Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT), July 9.
Maritime Infrastructure Protection Exercise Achieving Multinational Goals
USS PEARL HARBOR, At Sea – Ships from Bahrain, the U.K and U.S. are currently conducting Exercise Stake Net to protect key economic infrastructure in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf.
Cosgriff Highlights Regional Cooperation during Change of Command
MANAMA, Bahrain – During his change of command ceremony, the outgoing Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Vice Adm. Kevin Cosgriff, emphasized the need for fostering relationships with coalition partners and said, “The more Coalition and partner nations collaborate to provide security for the region the more they are able to achieve.”
Momsen Enjoys Seychelles Port Visit
VICTORIA, Seychelles -- USS Momsen (DDG 92) departed Victoria, Seychelles July 1, where the crew spent five days exploring its culture, engaging in several recreational activities and conducting community relations projects
Admiral Cosgriff Discusses Maritime Security with local Media
MANAMA, Bahrain –Vice Adm. Kevin Cosgriff, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces met with regional media in Bahrain June 30 to discuss the role of maritime security in the Gulf, which builds a foundation for regional security and global prosperity.
USS Momsen Provides Mechanical Assistance to Cargo Dhow
INDIAN OCEAN—Crewmembers from guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) provided engineering and mechanical assistance to a vessel in distress in the Indian Ocean, June 15.
Coalition Officers Visit USS Abraham Lincoln
ABOARD USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN – Members of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) serving in Bahrain visited USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) June 19 while conducting operations in the Arabian Gulf.
Canadian Ships Tow Yemeni Dhow Back to Safety
GULF OF ADEN – HMCS Protecteur (AOR 509) and HMCS Iroquois (DDH 280) operating off the coast of Somalia provided assistance to a ship in distress June 11.
CJTF-HOA officers visit USS Shoup
ABOARD USS SHOUP – Guided missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) hosted Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) staff officers from the French Army and Romanian Navy on May 24 while conducting operations in the Gulf of Aden.
Sea Falcon ’08 Brings Together Regional Partners
MANAMA, Bahrain – Sea Falcon ’08, a maritime security awareness conference held in Bahrain June 8 – 11, brought together over 50 maritime law enforcement officials from around the region.
Ashland Supports CTF 158 in North Arabian Gulf
USS ASHLAND, At Sea – Amphibious dock landing ship, USS Ashland (LSD 48) recently completed operations as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158 in the North Arabian Gulf (NAG).
Admiral Cosgriff Addresses Pakistan Navy War College
LAHORE, Pakistan – At the invitation of Pakistan’s Navy, Vice Adm. Kevin Cosgriff, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces spoke to officers at the Pakistan Navy War College June 9.
USS Russell Assists Vessel in Distress
GULF OF ADEN – USS Russell (DDG 59) responded to a vessel in distress between Bossasso, Somalia and the Yemeni coast in the Gulf of Aden June 8.
DESRON 50 Changes Hands
MANAMA, Bahrain – Capt. Karl Van Deusen assumed command of Destroyer Squadron 50 during a ceremony held aboard USS Dextrous, June 5.
USS Russell Participates in Exercise Khunjar Haad
USS RUSSELL, At Sea — Guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) participated in Exercise Khunjar Haad, a four-day multi-national exercise conducted in the Gulf of Oman, May 17-21.
Bahrain Hands Command of CTF 152 to the UK
MANAMA, Bahrain – Royal Bahrain Navy Brig. Gen. Abdulla Saeed Al Mansoori concluded three successful months as commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 in a ceremony held at the Bahraini Naval Headquarters June 5.
French Navy Hands Command of CTF 150 to Canada
FS MARNE – Canadian Navy Commodore Bob Davidson relieved French Navy Rear Adm. Jean-Louis Kerignard as Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 during a change of command ceremony aboard FS Marne (A 630), June 3.
ESGs: Delivering Presence and Security
USS NASSAU, At Sea – The maritime environment throughout the world is constantly changing and evolving. With advances in technology, and changes in the geo-political environment, it is important for U.S. naval forces to project forward presence and foster regional cooperation.
Stake Net Achieves Multinational Operation’s Goals
USS OAK HILL, At Sea — Ships from Bahrain, New Zealand, the U.K. and U.S. concluded Operation Stake Net May 28, a three-day operation focused on protecting key economic infrastructure in the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf.
USS Bulkeley Conducts COMREL Project In Seychelles
VICTORIA, Seychelles – Sailors stationed aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) conducted a two-day community relations (COMREL) project May 19-20 at the Seychelles Rehabilitation Center during the ship’s port visit to the island.
Abe Sailors’ Experience Middle East Culture
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea - Braving intense heat and dusty sandstorms, many USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Sailors explored Middle East culture during a scheduled port visit May 23-27.
CTF 150 Helps Ensure A Lawful Maritime Order
FS MARNE, At Sea – Some of the world’s most heavily travelled waters are in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden. Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, a multinational coalition task force, is conducting operations in these busy and sometimes dangerous waters to help build a lawful maritime order.
CTF 59 Completes Disaster Relief Training Exercise
ARABIAN GULF – Commander, Task Force 59 (CTF 59) completed a humanitarian assistance exercise May 25 designed to improve their collective response capabilities in the event of a natural disaster.
USS Curts, Pakistani Navy Participate in Officer Exchange Program
USS CURTS, At Sea – Officers from USS Curts and the Pakistani Navy participated in a personnel exchange as part of Exercise Inspired Union that occurred in the North Arabian Sea May 11-21. This exchange allowed junior officers to experience life first hand and discover the cultural and professional differences on board various Pakistani and U.S. ships.
US, Pakistan Forces Complete Exercise Inspired Union 2008
USS ROSS, At Sea – Pakistan and U.S. Naval forces completed Exercise Inspired Union 2008 in the North Arabian Sea May 21, which focused on air, surface and anti-submarine training, as part of regional Maritime Security operations (MSO).
Coalition Forces Complete Goalkeeper III Exercise
ARABIAN GULF – Coalition Forces, led by Royal Bahrain Navy Brig. Gen. Abdulla Saeed Al Mansoori commander, Task Force (CTF) 152 conducted Exercise Goalkeeper III (GKIII) in the Arabian Gulf, May 12-14.
U.S., Pakistan Forces Strengthen Ties during Exercise
USS CURTS, At Sea – Pakistan and U.S. Naval forces began Exercise Inspired Union 2008 in the North Arabian Sea May 11, which will focus on air, surface and anti-submarine training.
French Admiral Visits USS Shoup
GULF OF OMAN – French Rear Adm. Jean-Louis Kerignard, Commander Task Force (CTF) 150, visited USS Shoup (DDG 86) May 9 to discuss operations in CTF 150, tour the ship spaces and address the ship’s crew.
USS Momsen Trains With Kenyan Navy
MOMBASA, Kenya – During a three-day port visit to Mombasa, USS Momsen (DDG 92) hosted damage control training with a group of ten Kenyan Sailors, May 8.
USS Momsen Sailors Visit School In Kenya
MOMBASA, Kenya – A group of 20 USS Momsen (DDG 92) Sailors visited a school in Mombasa, Kenya May 7 as part of a community relations (COMREL) program called Project Handclasp.
USS Momsen Strengthens Ties with Kenya
MOMBASA, Kenya - USS Momsen (DDG 92) departed Mombasa, Kenya May 9 following a three-day port visit, which allowed the ship’s crew to participate in community relations events and professional military exchanges that strengthened ties between the U.S and Kenya.
US 5th Fleet/Coalition Forces Build Unity During April
MANAMA, Bahrain -- U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) demonstrated its commitment to building partnerships and enhancing regional cooperation though operations, exercises and regional engagements during the month of April.
Coalition ships help rescue a dhow in the Gulf of Aden
GULF OF ADEN – USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) and USS Shoup (DDG 86) responded to a ship in distress in the Gulf of Aden May 4 and towed the boat to Yemeni territorial waters, where it arrived May 6, so the dhow could be repaired.
Kestrels doing their part since 1985
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At sea – Since their establishment July 2, 1985, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137 has flown a variety of missions in support of operations throughout the world.
Coalition Nations Clear Mine Danger Areas in Arabian Gulf
MANAMA, Bahrain – During the past several weeks, Mine Countermeasure forces from Coalition navies have conducted operations to survey and clear Mine Danger Areas (MDAs) of the Northern Arabian Gulf.
Bahrain Defense Force Chief of Staff Visits NAVCENT Headquarters
MANAMA, Bahrain – Bahrain Defense Force Chief of Staff Gen. Shaikh Duaij Bin Salman Al-Alkhalifa visited U.S. Naval Forces Central Command headquarters April 27 to discuss Bahrain’s role in the Coalition as well as Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 operations.
Motor Vessel Encounters Small Boats
MANAMA, Bahrain - While transiting north in international waters in the Central Arabian Gulf April 24 at approximately 8 a.m. local time, Motor Vessel Westward Venture was approached by two unidentified small boats.
Coalition Exercise Builds Unity in the North Arabian Sea
RBNS SAHBA, North Arabian Sea — The Royal Bahraini Navy, along with U.S. and Coalitions forces conducted Exercise Arabian Shark, April 15-17 in the North Arabian Sea.
Carrier Strike Group 10 Changes Hands
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At sea -- Rear Adm. Mark I. Fox relieved Rear Adm. Bill Gortney as Commander, Carrier Strike Group 10 (CSG 10) during a change-of-command ceremony held at sea in the Arabian Gulf April 19.
CNO Visits USS Harry S. Truman
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead visited the crew of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) April 15 to address Sailors deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).
Chief of Naval Operations Visits Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead visited Bahrain April 13-15 to meet with U.S. and Coalition leaders as well as Sailors currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).
Tarawa Hosts Coalition Leadership In Djibouti
DJIBOUTI – Amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1) welcomed aboard Coalition leaders from Pakistan, France, Ethiopia, Egypt and the U.S., April 1.
Sailors Visit Tombs and Temples in Egypt
SAFAGA, Egypt – Sailors from guided-missile frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) received a rare opportunity to see ancient Egyptian landmarks during tour of Luxor, Egypt, March 6.
Tarawa Makes Landmark Launch From LHA Class Ship
ARABIAN SEA – Sailors and Marines aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1) successfully launched and retrieved raiding craft combat rubber inflatables (CRRC) for the first time from an LHA class ship, March 29.
Coalition Exercise Strengthens Maritime Security in the Arabian Gulf
ARABIAN GULF – From January to March 2008, Destroyer Squadron 26 (DESRON 26) embarked USS Cleveland (LPD-7) to assume the role of an Afloat Forward Staging Base (AFSB) for several Coalition exercises in Fifth Fleet area of operations (AOO).
Maritime Coalition Leaders Discuss Security Issues
MANAMA, Bahrain – Senior naval commanders, hailing from Bahrain, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, met at the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) headquarters in Bahrain March 31 to review operations and exercises, as well as future opportunities to build the coalition.
USS Ingraham Joins Exercise Eagle Salute
RED SEA – Guided-missile frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) joined Egyptian and U.S. maritime forces, March 4 in the Red Sea to participate in Exercise Eagle Salute 2008.
DESRON 26 Completes Multinational Exercise Goalkeeper II
ARABIAN GULF – Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 completed Exercise Goalkeeper II Feb. 28, a multilateral exercise held in the Arabian Gulf.
“Zappers” Change Command
MIDDLE EAST - Cmdr. John MacTavish handed over the reins as commanding officer of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 130 to Cmdr. Scott Moran during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), March 22.
Update: Motor Vessel Global Patriot
MANAMA, Bahrain–The U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet expressed regret for the death of an Egyptian citizen who died Monday night, an apparent result from warning shots fired at a small boat approaching a ship chartered by the U.S. Navy.
Motor Vessel Global Patriot
MANAMA, Bahrain – The Global Patriot, a ship on short term charter to the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command, fired warning shots at a small boat approaching the ship as it was preparing to transit the Suez Canal Monday evening. There were no reports from the Global Patriot of casualties.
Motor Vessel Global Patriot
MANAMA, Bahrain - A ship under charter to the Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) preparing to transit the Suez Canal Monday night reportedly fired warning shots at a small boat approaching the vessel, following multiple warnings to turn away, according to reports from the embarked U.S. Navy security team.
Dimdex Brings Together Regional Partners
DOHA, Qatar – The first-ever Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) began March 17 in Doha, Qatar and brought together many important decision makers from the region and beyond, including representatives from Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
Combined Maritime Forces Successfully Halt Illegal Shipping
MANAMA, Bahrain – Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) operations in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, have succeeded in disrupting the transit of contraband, narcotics and alcohol in recent weeks.
UK Assumes Command of Combined Task Force 158
NORTH ARABIAN GULF – Royal Navy Commodore Duncan Potts relieved Royal Australian Navy Commodore Allan du Toit as commander of Combined Task Force 158 during a ceremony aboard Khawr Al Amaya oil terminal, March 10.
Coalition Forces Train To Keep Sea Lanes Open
NORTH ARABIAN GULF – U.S., U.K. and Kuwait forces completed a mine countermeasures exercise (MCMEX) March 6 in the North Arabian Gulf.
USS Cleveland: Afloat Forward Staging Base in the Gulf
CENTRAL ARABIAN GULF - Amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7) completed first-time Interaction Patrols (IPATS) by integrating the use of a landing craft utility (LCU) with air assets during a recent series of exercises in the Central Arabian Gulf.
US, UK Engage in Personnel Exchanges During MCM Exercise
NORTH ARABIAN GULF – The U.S. and U.K. navies engaged in personnel exchanges during a Coalition mine countermeasures exercise (MCMEX) in the North Arabian Gulf, Feb. 26 to March 6.
Bahrain Assumes Command of CTF 152
MANAMA, Bahrain – Royal Bahrain Navy Brig. Gen. Abdulla Saeed Al Mansoori relieved U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Bill Gortney as commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 152 in a ceremony held at the Bahraini Naval Headquarters March 4, marking the first time Coalition forces have been commanded by a Gulf nation.
Sailors and Marines Volunteer At Bahrain’s Cherry Tree Trot Fundraiser
SAKHIR, Bahrain - Sailors and Marines volunteered to participate in Bahrain’s biggest biennial charity sporting event Feb. 29, at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
Fifth Fleet/Coalition Forces Abuzz with Activity in February
MANAMA, Bahrain - U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) demonstrated their continued commitment to regional security during February.
Multiple Countries Conclude Maritime Symposium
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) concluded a three-day Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium (MIPS) Feb. 26, which brought together many industry professionals, security personnel and maritime corporations with regional and Coalition partners.
MIPS Holds Security Roundtable Discussion
MANAMA, Bahrain – Experts in maritime infrastructure protection participated in a roundtable discussion during day two of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)-hosted Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium (MIPS), Feb. 27 in Manama, Bahrain.
Multiple Countries Gather for Maritime Symposium
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) kicked off a three-day Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium (MIPS), Feb 26 in Manama, Bahrain, with speakers addressing threats to maritime infrastructure and ways to detect attacks in the Arabian Gulf.
NAVCENT Selects 2007 Sailors of the Year
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/Fifth Fleet selected its 2007 Sailors of the Year (SOY) and presented them with awards during a ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, Feb. 26.
Pakistan Navy Hands Command of CTF 150 to France
MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain - French Navy Rear Adm. Jean L. Kerignard relieved Pakistani Cdre. Khan Hasham Bin Saddique as Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 during a change of command ceremony aboard Pakistan Naval Ship Tippu Sultan (D 186), Feb. 25.
Coalition Forces Rescue Iraqi Mariners
ARABIAN GULF – Coalition forces rescued 10 Iraqi mariners in the Arabian Gulf, Feb. 22 after their vessel took on water.
Sailor Re-Enlists in Video Teleconference at NAVCENT
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) hosted a live video teleconference (VTC) re-enlistment ceremony for a Sailor stationed aboard mine countermeasures ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13), Feb. 16.
CTF 56 Officer Named Reserve Junior Officer of Year
MANAMA, Bahrain – The Reserve Officers Association (ROA) presented Lt. Chris Burns of Combined Task Force (CTF) 56 with the Outstanding Navy Reserve Junior Officer of the Year award in Washington D.C., Feb. 11.
Coalition Intercepts Smuggling Operations In North Arabian Sea
Two coalition warships have intercepted and stopped illegal smuggling activities in the North Arabian Sea over the last two days.
Combined Maritime Forces Commander Meets With Japanese Media
MANAMA, Bahrain – Vice Adm. Kevin J. Cosgriff, Commander, Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), met with Japanese media at CMF headquarters, Feb. 19 to discuss resumption of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) refueling mission in support of Coalition Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
Multiple Countries to Gather for Maritime Symposium
MANAMA, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) will host this year’s Maritime Infrastructure Protection Symposium (MIPS) at the Radisson Diplomat Hotel Feb. 26-28.
CTF 150 Assists in At-Sea Medical Evacuation
GULF OF ADEN – Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 helped coordinate a medical evacuation from a Greek merchant vessel in the Gulf of Aden Feb. 14.
USS Tarawa Changes Command
USS TARAWA, At sea – Capt. Brian Luther relieved Capt. Donald R. Shunkwiler as commanding officer of USS Tarawa (LHA 1) during a change of command ceremony Feb. 7 during a port visit in the Middle East.
HMCS Charlottetown Aids Stranded Sailors
MANAMA, Bahrain - Canadian multi-patrol frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH 339) rescued two Pakistani mariners adrift on a barge in the North Arabian Sea Feb. 3.
USS Port Royal Visits Bahrain
MINA SALMAN, Bahrain – USS Port Royal (CG 73) departed Mina Salman pier, Bahrain, Jan. 15 after an eight-day visit.
Coalition Efforts Build Lawful Maritime Order
Coalition forces recently completed a coordinated operation in the Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa to deter and disrupt activities and incidents that affect maritime security and stability.
Port Royal and Hopper COs Discuss Incident in Strait of Hormuz
MANAMA, Bahrain – Capt. David Adler, commanding officer of USS Port Royal (CG 73), and Capt. Jeffery James, commanding officer of USS Hopper (DDG 70), met with Middle Eastern and U.S. national media at Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet headquarters Jan. 13 to discuss last week’s incident in the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan, Bahrain Defense Forces Strengthen Relations
MANAMA, Bahrain – A delegation of Pakistani defense officials, including the Secretary of Pakistan’s Ministry of Defense, is visiting the Kingdom of Bahrain Jan. 14-18 to improve relations between the defense forces of the two countries.
President Bush Visits Sailors in Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain – President Bush was greeted by applauding Sailors at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, home of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/5th Fleet headquarters Jan. 13, marking the first visit to the island by a U.S. president.
USS Germantown Changes Command
USS GERMANTOWN, At sea – Cmdr. Keith Moore relieved Cmdr. Steve Vincent as commanding officer of Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) in a change of command ceremony Jan. 7.
HMCS Charlottetown Assists Vessel off Somalia Coast
MANAMA, Bahrain – Canadian multi-patrol frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH 339) provided assistance to five mariners adrift on a stranded vessel in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia.
No Fatalities as Two F/A-18s Crash in Arabian Gulf
ARABIAN GULF – Teams from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) rescued all three aviators after two F/A-18 Super Hornets crashed during operations in the Arabian Gulf Jan. 7.
USS Hopper Sailor Missing
MANAMA, Bahrain -- A Sailor from USS Hopper (DDG 70) was reported missing Jan. 3 at approximately 5:30 a.m. local time while the ship was conducting Maritime Security Operations in the Arabian Sea.