Danny Lee News

Tarawa Makes Landmark Launch From LHA Class Ship

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David A. 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. The successful execution proved Tarawa-class ships can utilize these boats for advanced covert insertion of Marine forces ashore. "These types of craft can be launched on all other amphibious ships as well." said Chief Warrant Officer Danny Lee, assistant first lieutenant of 's Deck Department. The morning of the launch, Marines attached to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, staged the CRRCs in the well deck, and carried them to the water's edge. From there, the boats were pushed into the water.