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USS Iwo Jima Arrives in Civitavecchia

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060627-08
Release Date: 6/27/2006 2:29:00 PM

By Journalist 1st Class (SW) Mike Jones, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA (NNS) -- USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) arrived at the port town of Civitavecchia on the outskirts of Rome, Italy, June 27 after departing Marseille, France, the day before.

The multipurpose amphibious assault ship left its homeport of Norfolk, Va., June 6 to begin a regularly scheduled, six-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations.

“The history encapsulated by this port makes it a truly exciting place to visit,” said Iwo Jima Commanding Officer Capt. Michael A. Walley. “I know this crew, the outstanding Sailors of LHD 7 and Marines of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU (SOC)), are all looking forward to this experience.”

During the visit, Iwo Sailors will be treated to tours and visits to the greater Rome area courtesy of the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department as well as the ship’s chaplain’s office.

“I am really looking forward to seeing Rome,” said Iwo Supply Department’s Storekeeper 1st Class (AW) Phillip Jackson. For the Stuart, Fla., native, a trip to the Vatican will be the peak of his visit. “I’ve heard and read so much about it" he said. "As soon as I heard the chaplain’s office was arranging a tour, I signed up.”

“I want to see it all. Rome has so much history,” said Iwo Jima Communications Officer Lt. Michael A. Lincoln. “I’ve signed up for as many tours as possible. I’m looking forward to maximizing my time out in town,” the Columbus, Ohio, native added.

“I’m definitely looking forward to this visit,” said Yeoman 2nd Class (SW) Garland Albert. “I’ve been here once before, so I’m excited to revisit some of the areas I remember. I really love the culture here – it’s very impressive.”

Iwo Jima is one of 24 ships that comprise Commander, Amphibious Group (COMPHIBGRU) 2, based at NAB Little Creek, Va.

COMPHIBGRU 2, with its 16,000 Sailors and Marines, provides warfighting naval amphibious forces to operate with joint and combined forces for combatant commanders.

LHD 7 is currently serving as the flagship for the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which includes USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Cole (DDG 67) and USS Albuquerque (SSN 706). Additionally, the Iwo Jima ESG includes the 24th MEU(SOC), as well as various supporting elements from Assault Craft Unit 4, Beachmaster Unit 2, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26.

For related news, visit the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/lhd7/.