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USS Raven Continues Mine Hunting Mission in Persian Gulf

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS050627-11
Release Date: 6/27/2005 11:31:00 AM

By Journalist 3rd Class Joseph Ebalo, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Coastal Mine Hunter (MHC) Crew “Inflict” completed their fourth month aboard USS Raven (MHC 61) safeguarding the waters of the North Persian Gulf June 26.

Raven is one of four mine warfare ships forward deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, employing their mine hunting and sweeping capabilities to conduct maritime security operations (MSO).

“Our mission out here is to hunt, classify and neutralize mines and clear the pathway for other ships to pass,” said Lt. Ernesto Rivera, Inflict executive officer. "In addition, Inflict Sailors perform patrols of the Arabian Gulf, and detect and observe all other ships in the area.”

To carry out their mission, the 50-man Inflict crew operates specialized mine detection tools, such as enhanced radar systems, waterborne radio-controlled machinery, and mine disarming and neutralization equipment.

Inflict Sailors spent 18 months at their home port of Ingleside, Texas, receiving instruction and training to prepare for their vital role in the Middle East.

“History tells us the most damage done to U.S. Navy ships has been caused by underwater mines and waterborne explosives,” said Senior Chief Mineman Ronald Johnson, Inflict operations leading chief petty officer. “Our job is important, because we ensure the security of key water routes and allow ships to transit from one point to another safely.”

“We protect our shipmates' lives by going in and clearing the area first,” said Johnson.

MHC Crew Inflict members understand the importance of their mission in the Middle East and recognize that their skills are an essential contribution to the global war against terrorism.

“We have more responsibilities and duties because we have a smaller ship and a smaller crew, but it’s worth it,” said Mineman 2nd Class Triveni Baron, MHC Crew Inflict sonar technician. “The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and I feel honored and proud to be deployed and serving my country.”

MSO sets the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complements the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations, and denies international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.