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Iwo Jima ESG Arrives to Assist with Departure of American Citizens from Lebanon

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060721-09
Release Date: 7/21/2006 11:58:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Mike Jones, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- More U.S. Sailors and Marines from the USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived on station July 21 to assist in the authorized departure of American citizens from Lebanon.

Under the direction of Commander, Task Force 59, Marine Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, naval assets have been transporting American citizens from Lebanon to Cyprus. CH-53 helicopters from the 24th MEU have been flying several flights a day since July 16 from Lebanon to Cyprus. July 20, USS Nashville (LPD 13) began using utility landing craft (LCU) to move approximately 1,000 American citizens wishing to depart Lebanon from the beach to the ship. USS Gonzales (DDG 66) and USS Barry (DDG 52) have been escort ships for the chartered civilian ships transporting citizens to Cyprus.

The addition of Iwo Jima, USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) and USS Trenton (LPD 14) significantly increases the ESG’s capability to quickly move American citizens out of Lebanon.

“This crew is ready and highly motivated to take part in this mission,” said Capt. Michael A. Walley, commanding officer of Iwo Jima.

USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), a fleet replenishment oiler, is also participating.

To date, military forces have assisted in the transport of more than 3,700 American citizens who wished to depart Lebanon.