USS Dextrous joins USS Ardent Underway for Maritime Security Operations

ABOARD USS DEXTROUS, AT SEA

09.02.2006

Courtesy Story

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

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Edward Flynn
U.S. Naval Forces, 5th Fleet PAO

USS DEXTROUS, Arabian Gulf -- Following a two-month maintenance overhaul, the mine countermeasures ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13) joined sister ship USS Ardent (MCM 12) in getting underway Sept. 1, from the Mina Salman pier in Bahrain. The 80-member crew of the Avenger-class mine warfare ship will test newly installed equipment and recently improved systems while conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the Arabian Gulf.

"Being underway is always a special time for a ship. Although we were in-port for some maintenance challenges, the professionalism and determination of the crew remained high," said Lt. Cmdr. Scott Curtis, Dextrous commanding officer. "We worked together as a team."

Deputy Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Rear Adm. John Miller, praised the crew on their effort during the maintenance period.

"You conducted yourself in a most professional manner, with enthusiasm and a willingness to get the job done. You should be proud of your training and your hard work."

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/FMF) David Edwards of Corpus Christi, Texas, was one of many Sailors who expressed great pride in the crew and the opportunity to participate in the Navy's mission in the region.

"As the ship's corpsman, I have the privilege to work on a daily basis with the entire crew. I am proud to be associated with this ship. We are energized and excited to be underway once again."

Damage Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Ivory Griffin of Greenville, Miss., credited the intensive training of the crew with the ship's success.

"We are constantly training on all aspects of the ship, from in-rate and professional training to leadership. We are ready to go."

Coalition forces conduct maritime security operations under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.

• Date Taken: 09.02.2006
• Date Posted: 09.07.2006 10:38
• Story ID: 7656
• Location: ABOARD USS DEXTROUS, AT SEA