USS Carney Returns to Mayport Naval Station After Seven-Month Deployment

by Annabelle Stephenson
in Action, News
on 19 May 2024

The USS Carney has just arrived back at Naval Station Mayport after completing a challenging and historic seven-month deployment in the Middle East. Departing on September 27, 2023, the ship witnessed the outbreak of conflict in the region just ten days later when Hamas launched an attack on Israel. This deployment marked the USS Carney’s most combat-intensive mission since World War II, and the crew has been praised for their extraordinary dedication and bravery.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro commended the USS Carney team for their outstanding service, stating that their bold and courageous actions contributed to regional stability, protected global commerce, and defended key allies and partnerships. Their efforts served as a deterrent against aggression and violations of international law.

During their deployment, the USS Carney encountered a dangerous situation when Iranian-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at the Bermuda-owned M.V. Marline Luanda. Video footage captured the ship launching missiles to intercept the threat, showcasing the highly skilled capabilities of the crew.

Commanding Officer Jeremy Robertson emphasized that although they were never in immediate danger, they operated in a high-risk environment. He attributed their successful mission to being in the right place at the right time, with an exceptional team and thorough training.

The homecoming of the USS Carney was celebrated by a crowd of over 500 people, making it one of the largest homecoming receptions in the local area. Many crew members expressed their gratitude for the support and spoke fondly of their camaraderie during the deployment. Anthony Rios, a member of the crew, highlighted the importance of his colleagues and their shared experiences, stating that they were just doing their job.

Now, reunited with their loved ones, the crew members are grateful to be back home. Anthony Rios expressed how much his fellow crew members mean to him and how he strives to make them proud every day.

The safe return of the USS Carney marks the end of a significant chapter in its history, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the United States Navy.

Additional facts:

1. The USS Carney is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer belonging to the United States Navy.

2. The ship is named after Admiral Robert Carney, who served as Chief of Naval Operations during the Korean War.

3. The seven-month deployment took the USS Carney to various locations in the Middle East, including the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea.

4. The crew of the USS Carney consists of approximately 300 sailors and officers.

5. The ship is equipped with advanced missile systems, including Tomahawk and Standard Missile-3, which were used during the deployment.

6. The USS Carney’s mission during the deployment included maritime security operations, deterrence against aggression, and support for allied forces in the region.

7. The ship conducted joint military exercises with partner nations to enhance interoperability and strengthen regional security.

8. The USS Carney’s deployment also involved conducting patrols, surveillance, and intelligence gathering activities in the Middle East.

Key Questions and Answers:

1. What was the purpose of the USS Carney’s deployment?

The USS Carney’s deployment had multiple purposes, including maintaining regional stability, protecting global commerce, and defending key allies and partnerships. The ship’s presence in the Middle East served as a deterrent against aggression and violations of international law.

2. What were the significant events or challenges faced by the USS Carney during the deployment?

The ship encountered the outbreak of conflict between Hamas and Israel soon after departing, and later faced a dangerous situation when Iranian-backed Houthis fired a ballistic missile at a civilian ship. The crew successfully intercepted the threat, showcasing their highly skilled capabilities.

3. What advantages does the USS Carney bring to the United States Navy?

As an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, the USS Carney brings advanced missile systems, maritime security capabilities, and the ability to conduct various missions in support of national security interests.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:
– The USS Carney’s deployment demonstrated the United States’ commitment to regional security and its ability to project military power in the Middle East.
– The ship’s advanced missile systems and capabilities contribute to deterring potential adversaries and protecting allied forces in the region.
– The successful interception of a ballistic missile showcased the effectiveness of the USS Carney’s crew training and combat readiness.

Disadvantages:
– Deployments can pose risks to the crew’s safety, as they operate in high-risk environments.
– Extended deployments can have physical and emotional effects on the crew members and their families.
– The cost of maintaining and operating a guided-missile destroyer, such as the USS Carney, is significant.