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Crommelin Ends Successful 6 Month Deployment

Navy NewStand

Story Number: NNS030430-01
Release Date: 4/30/2003 7:34:00 AM

By Lt. j.g. Matt Price, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- April 22 marked the return of USS Crommelin (FFG 37) from a six-month deployment to the Southern Pacific, where it conducted counter-narcotics operations in support of Operation Caper Focus.

Since her departure Oct. 22, Crommelin has contributed to the war on drugs by interdicting six metric tons of narcotics flowing in the Eastern Pacific. The crew aboard Crommelin was also excellent ambassadors and lifesavers.

Crommelin participated in several counter-narcotics operations during its time in the Eastern Pacific. With the help of HSL (Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light) 37 Det. 3 and its aircraft, Easy Rider 57, Team Crommelin was able to interdict more than six metric tons of narcotics, valued at more than $183 million - narcotics whose eventual destination were the shores of the United States.

While on deployment, Team Crommelin was also instrumental in numerous humanitarian missions. They successfully rescued 157 Ecuadorians from a sinking fishing vessel, returning them home, as well as towing a fishing boat and crew of 14 back to their home port after they had drifted for three days with a broken engine. Easy Rider 57 took their turn at center stage by rescuing a severely injured fisherman and transporting him ashore for proper medical attention. Crommelin's crew showed that U.S. Sailors are not only "warriors," but also mariners that uphold the highest traditions of the sea by assisting those in need.

For the crew of Crommelin, being in the Navy not only makes you a Sailor, but an ambassador of good will. During their port visits, Sailors worked to improve the lives of the people they visited. While in Ecuador, numerous Sailors took the time to repair and refurbish a local elementary school. They also delivered medical supplies and basic necessities to the local community. Crommelin Sailors are truly one of a kind.

"We not only stemmed the flow of drugs, but were able to assist people and show a very giving side of our Sailors," said Lt. Cmdr. Will Triplett, Crommelin's executive officer.

Now that the deployment has ended, many of the crew look forward to new beginnings.

"I am so very proud of our Team Crommelin Sailors, not only for the outstanding performance against the war on drugs, but additionally meeting their personal and professional goals of 120 college course completions and qualification of eight surface warriors and 55 enlisted surface warriors," said Command Master Chief (CMDCM) Daniel Miller. Even with all of the successes of the last six months, Crommelin's crew is looking forward to some well-deserved relaxation prior to beginning preparations for the next deployment.