Guided-missile frigate USS Curts (FFG 38), is scheduled to depart for a scheduled, six-month independent deployment to the 4th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) June 1.
Curts, commanded by Cmdr. Fermin Espinoza , will be performing counter-illicit trafficking operations designed to improve maritime stability within the region and protect free use of the sea lanes by thwarting the activities of drug traffickers and criminal organizations.
The deployment is expected to be the last for the ship. Commissioned Oct. 8, 1983, Curts is scheduled for decommissioning in 2013 after nearly 30 years of service to the nation.
U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the West Coast of North America to the international dateline.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, June 1, 2012; Image: US Navy