Mobile Security Detachment Returns from Persian Gulf
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS041207-10
Release Date: 12/7/2004 3:21:00 PM
By Journalist Seaman Riza Wenthe, Naval Media Center Fleet Support Detachment Norfolk
NAVAL AMPHIBIOUS BASE LITTLE CREEK, Va. (NNS) -- Mobile Security Det. (MSD) 21 returned home Dec. 7, completing a six-month deployment in the Persian Gulf.
MSD 21 arrived in the Gulf June 5 with approximately 70 Sailors. They provided relief for the Interim Marine Corps Security Force aboard the Khawr Al Amaya and Al Basrah Oil Terminals, protecting Iraq's vital oil infrastructure.
"It's really easy to do a mission where what you're protecting is right there for you to look at every day," said Lt. Brian Vandiver, MSD 21 officer in charge. "I think some of the Sailors on the ships have a harder time visualizing what they're there to protect. Not so with us. We were there to protect the oil platforms. We were on board looking at them every day, living with the Iraqis."
Returning now makes a nice gift, as MSD 21's Sailors can spend the holidays with their families and loved ones.
"Being home in time for Christmas makes it that much more special," said Vandiver. "Now that we are, we couldn't be more happy."
Master-at-Arms 1st Class (AW) Quentin Saunders looks forward to seeing his daughter, who was born just before his departure.
"I got to see her right before I left, and I had to leave right away," he said. "I'm looking forward to see how much she's grown."
MSD 21 was relieved Nov. 26 on station by MSD 22 before returning to Hampton Roads.
Both MSDs are part of Mobile Security Squadron 2. Their mission is to provide point defense for high-value U.S. assets or anything the Navy deems high-value. They contribute 24-hour security in harbors and oceans in these areas.
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