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USS Wasp Heads Through Suez on Way Home

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS040831-05
Release Date: 8/31/2004 10:51:00 AM

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Mark Schultz, USS Wasp Public Affairs

SUEZ CANAL (NNS) -- USS Wasp (LHD 1), the flagship for Expeditionary Strike Group 2, transited the Suez Canal and entered the Mediterranean Sea Aug. 21 after more than six months deployed in support of the global war on terrorism.

The multipurpose amphibious assault ship made a 14-hour journey through the Suez Canal, leaving U.S. 5th Fleet's area of operation and entering U.S. 6th Fleet jurisdiction.

Surrounded by land less than 250 yards to either side, Wasp inched its way through the canal at five knots, led by a pilot craft and followed by tugs.

"I was in Egypt for the first time, and everything I saw just blew my mind," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Recruit Francis Peter from Phoenix. "There was a lot of stuff to see, so I didn't mind creeping along. The thing I thought was most interesting was when you looked to one side, all you see is sand and when you looked to the other, it's all green. The only separation is the canal."

In 5th Fleet, Expeditionary Strike Group 2 landed the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit to conduct missions in Afghanistan supporting the global war on terrorism. While the Marines were ashore, Wasp participated in Operation Sea Dragon, helping establish a database of local shipping, fishing and merchant traffic in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea.

"Our mission was to participate in a theater-wide effort to learn how terrorists use maritime assets to promote terrorism," said Lt. Cmdr. Jason Haney, Wasp intelligence officer. "We now have a better understanding of normal traffic patterns in 5th Fleet, which will help us recognize potential terrorists."

While in the area, Sailors were able to enjoy liberty in Mahe, Seychelles, and two port calls in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates.

"The ports were a great experience," said Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Warren Neal of Baltimore. "The best part was being able to go out with the people you work with and have a good time."

As they begin their final month of deployment, Sailors and Marines aboard Wasp are looking forward to getting home to see their families and loved ones.

"Morale is very high," said Marine Cpl. James Thomas with Battalion Landing Team 1st Regiment 6th Marines Weapons Company. "So far, it's been a smooth transition being back on the ship. We are one step closer to going home - and ready to get back."