Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron Deploys to Kuwait

By Mass Communication Specialist Cale T. Bentley, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron (NCWRON) 34 from Naval Coastal Warfare Group (NCWG) 1 deployed to Kuwait Aug. 22 and 24 to provide harbor and port security.

They are tasked to protect ships carrying supplies for allied forces in Iraq.

“This is my second time going over there, and it feels really good to help our troops get what they need to accomplish their mission,” said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Martin Garcia of NCWRON 34.

NCW squadrons use sensor platforms to provide a technical picture of the ports and harbors as they patrol the harbors for threats.

“Since I’ve been with this squadron, I’ve had nothing but total confidence in my men and women to do the job successfully around the clock,” said Command Master Chief (SW) Timothy Draughon of NCWRON 34.

NCWRON 34 has been training for the last four months preparing mentally and physically for their deployment.

“It’s amazing how far we have come with our training. Everything we do as a team is done incredibly well and this is, by far, the best group of men and women I’ve ever served with,” said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Richard Britton.

NCWRON 34 is comprised of Naval and Coast Guard enlisted and reservist personnel and is scheduled to be in Kuwait for approximately nine months.