Uss John L Hall News

Phoenix Express 2008 (PE 08) wrapped up the inport portion of the exercise on April 13 and began the underway portion of the two-week exercise on April 14 with 12 ships getting underway from Naval Support Activity, , . Two ships from the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group (NAS ESG), the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) and the amphibious transport dock USS Nashville (LPD 13); along with the frigate USS John L. Hall (FFG 32) and the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) are representing the .

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.

Sailors of USS John L. Hall (FFG 32) simulated boarding a vessel carrying cargo, inspecting its crew and inspecting the ship for proper documentation Sept. With USS McFaul (DDG 74) serving as the "cargo ship," Sailors came aboard dressed for the occasion, climbing out of rigid hull inflatable boats wearing everything from battle helmets to flak jackets. Teams scanned the areas, using their security training to clear each area in order to protect themselves. Teams scanned everything from the bridge to the fantail. One of the teams, according to Master-at-Arms 1st Class Brian Williams, also had the job to "take down" personnel on the foc'sle, who were McFaul Sailors, dressed in their civilian attire to play the role of cargo ship personnel.