San Antonio Makes Inaugural Transit Through Suez Canal
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. 's first transit through the Suez Canal marked its entry into the 5th Fleet area of operations. relied on the skill and expertise of its Sailors to successfully maneuver the 's navigational challenges. One of the challenges of the transit was the narrow passage had to navigate. is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations (MSO) in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity.
San Antonio Takes New Technology to Sea
The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) deployed Aug. 28 as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), marking the first deployment of a ship in the technologically advanced class of warships. The deployment introduces new technology and capabilities never before seen in any ESG. One example of this technology is the shipwide area network (SWAN). Communications with other ships has always been key to the Navy's success. has taken communications to the next level. Targeting surface threats with weapons has also benefited from the new technology.
George H.W. Bush Visits USS Ashland
Former President George H.W. Bush visited the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) to say thank you for the crew's service, June 15. Bush and some of his family members were on vacation in when they found out that would be visiting Rhodes, while the ship was returning from the . Bush quickly adjusted his schedule and made a detour just to stop by and talk with the crew. "I want you all to know it is a joy for us to see this ship, to be on board and be able to show the respect that we have for the Navy and those who serve there in," said Bush.
Four U.S. Ships to Participate in Phoenix Express 08
Four U.S. Navy ships will participate in Phoenix Express 2008 (PE 08), a U.S.-hosted, multinational exercise designed to strengthen regional maritime partnerships and foster the ability to operate jointly, from April 8-22. Two ships from the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group, the USS Nassau (LHA 4) and the USS Nashville (LPD 13); along with the USS John L. Hall (FFG 32) and USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) will represent the United States in this two-week exercise. Twelve other nations were also invited to participate or send representatives, to include , , , , , , , , , , and . A comprehensive and robust training agenda will provide participants with numerous opportunities to operate together and develop productive relationships.
Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group Arrives in 5th Fleet
Amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) steams in formation during a photo exercise near Guam. Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group consists of Amphibious Squadron 7, USS Bonhomme Richard, amphibious transport dock USS Denver (LPD 9), dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47), guided missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69), guided missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), guided missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65), and 2,200 combat ready Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. U.S. The Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (BHRESG) entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) May 19. The San Diego-based ship's arrival demonstrates the United States’ steadfast resolve to enhance security and support long-term stability in the region.
