The flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) departed Sasebo, Japan on February 17, to patrol the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.
The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard is scheduled to conduct joint force operations and training with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“The crew of Bonhomme Richard has demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and dedication to duty in getting the ship ready for this patrol and we couldn’t have done it without the great support of Ship Repair Facility Sasebo,” said Capt. Joey Tynch, Bonhomme Richard’s commanding officer. “We are ready to get out there, execute our mission safely and effectively, and demonstrate the diverse capabilities of Bonhomme Richard.”
This deployment will also mark the first time many junior enlisted Sailors will get underway for a full deployment aboard Bonhomme Richard.
“I’m excited because this underway will mark the first time I’ve had the opportunity to do my job in a deployed environment,” said Quartermaster Seaman James Branighan. “I can’t wait to get rolling and begin earning my qualifications.”
Bonhomme Richard is one of three ships from the Bonhomme Richard ARG and will meet up with USS Denver (LPD 9) and USS Ashland (LSD 48) at a later date.
[mappress] Press Release, February 18, 2014; Image: US Navy