SURFACE WARFARE SPRING 2018
visits in Guam, Singapore, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Malaysia. At one of the largest air shows in the world, embarked aviation assets from America and 15th MEU had the unique opportunity to participate in the Dubai Air Show and host the kick-off reception onboard. HSC23 and VMM-161 represented U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviation strength at the air show. At the completion of the ship’s first deployment, America’s Sailors and the 15th MEU Marines reunited with family and friends. "This crew grew exponentially in skill and professionalism,” said Capt. Joe Olson, commanding officer of America. “Our Sailors and the Marines of the 15th MEU fulfilled their tasking proficiently, effectively, and with heart. I am honored to have served with these men and women and we are excited to be home." Throughout the course of the sevenmonth deployment, America traveled 42,911 nautical miles; processed 214,697 pounds of mail; conducted 5,075 flight deck landings, takeoffs and vertical replenishment drop off and pick-ups. The engineering department produced 16.34 million gallons of potable water; Sailors and Marines consumed 254,960 eggs; and the ship’s store sold $1,021,624.87 in merchandise. The America ARG, commanded by PHIBRON 3, consists of the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and America. They operated with HSC-23 and detachments from Assault Craft Unit 5, Naval Beach Group 1, Beachmaster Unit 1, Fleet Surgical Team 1 and Tactical Air Control Squadron 11. The 15th MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force comprised of a ground combat element, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marines; an aviation combat element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161 (Reinforced); a combat logistics element, Combat Logistics Battalion 15. U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy. Third Fleet constantly coordinates with U.S. 7th Fleet to plan and execute missions that promote ongoing peace, security, and stability throughout the Pacific. *
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexander Ventura II
U.S. Navy photo by Melissa K. Russell
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexander Ventura II
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