Iwo Jima ESG Directed to Assist Departure

Courtesy Photo | Norfolk, Va. - Sailors aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) man the rails as they depart from Naval Station Norfolk. Iwo Jima ESG will deploy for six months in support of the global war on terrorism, as well as conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Lithographer Shanika L. Futrell (RELEASED)  

MANAMA, BAHRAIN

07.18.2006

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / U.S. 5th Fleet           

MANAMA, Bahrain -- U.S. Sailors and Marines from the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) have been directed to assist in the authorized departure of American citizens from Lebanon.

The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon has requested military assistance to help American citizens, who wish to depart Lebanon, to leave in a secure and orderly manner. Commander, Task Force 59, Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, USMC, in Cyprus is directing military efforts to provide support to the Embassy.

The ESG and MEU are operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and expect to be in place to provide assistance later this week. The Iwo Jima Strike Group includes the amphibious ships USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS Nashville (LPD 13) and USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). USS Trenton (LPD 14) and High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV 2) have also joined the strike group. (The 24th MEU (special operations capable), commanded by Col. Ron Johnson, 24th MEU (SOC) is composed of its command element, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 (Reinforced) and the MEU Service Support Group 24.

CH-53E helicopters from the 24th MEU operating from Cyprus have assisted 68 American citizens in departing Lebanon over the past two days. The helicopters continue those transportation flights today.

• Date Taken: 07.18.2006
• Date Posted: 07.18.2006 13:56
• Story ID: 7235
• Location: MANAMA, BH