Sailors and Marines assigned to multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) received a visit from the commander of U.S Fleet Forces (USFF) Feb. 6.
Adm. John C. Harvey Jr. congratulated service members on their successful deployment and wished them a safe and joyous return home.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be on board,” said Harvey. “I’ve watched you every step of the way. Many people will focus on the length of this deployment, but it’s not just the length that is important, it is what you accomplished. You are the finest example of the Navy and Marine Corps team.”
Bataan deployed March 23, 2011 as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which spent the past 10 1/2 months supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
“Admiral Harvey gave us a very warm welcome back,” said Culinary Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jatavius Hillboy . “It was exactly what we needed after being gone for so long. The past 10 1/2 months have been life-changing for me. We made history and I know it is a story that I will tell my children and maybe even my grandchildren one day.”
“After hearing Admiral Harvey talk to us I can’t help but feel proud,” Air Traffic Controller 3rd Class (SW) Sam Bomar . “I think all of us will be walking a little taller, with pride, once we are finally home.”
The BATARG, comprised of the Bataan, amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), deployed three months ahead of schedule March 23, 2011 in support of NATO-led Operation Unified Protector.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , February 08, 2012; Image: navy