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MSD 71 Completes Tour Aboard Oil Platforms

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS061003-31
Release Date: 10/3/2006 5:00:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Edward Flynn, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/ Commander U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

ABOARD IRAQI OIL TERMINALS, North Persian Gulf (NNS) -- Mobile Security Detachment (MSD) 71 concluded a successful six-month deployment here Oct. 1, in which it provided security for Iraq’s Al Basrah (ABOT) and Khawr Al Amaya (KAAOT) oil terminals.

The Guam-based Sailors, who are part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158, worked closely with the Iraqi marines, also stationed aboard the oil terminals, to secure the waters surrounding the oil platforms. MSD 71 Sailors provide Iraqi marines with close-in point defense operations training and other effective security techniques. This intensive training is designed to train the Iraqis to eventually protect the oil platforms and territorial waters without oversight or support from coalition forces.

Additionally, MSD 71 Sailors, the Iraqi marines and other units assigned to CTF 158 participated in training scenarios simulating an attack on the oil terminals to strengthen their cooperative response.

“Keeping the oil platforms operational and safe is vital for the future of Iraq and its people,” said Lt. Cmdr. Kenny Miller, officer in charge of MSD 71. “With more than 85 percent of the gross domestic product based on these oil platforms, the revenue is important to the Iraqi rebuilding efforts.”

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (AW) Pierre Peacock said he was proud of the mission he has been a part of.

“To be successful, it’s necessary for us to provide the best possible training and education to the Iraqi marines,” said Peacock. “We utilized our many years of experience and training in law enforcement and security. I’m lucky to have been part of this unit, which made a difference in this part of the world.”

From the scorching heat, lack of fresh water, and challenging working and living conditions, serving aboard the oil terminals presents many unique challenges for Sailors. However, Miller praised the work ethic and determination of the entire unit.

“I’m proud of the hard work and resolve of my Sailors during this deployment,” said Miller. “Living and working in this environment has been challenging. Our success during this deployment was a direct result of our professionalism and intensive training. We stayed focused on the job and getting it done correctly.”

Miller also praised the Iraqi marines in making significant strides in their military and security training.

“They listen well and are open to what we teach them,” he said. “They worked well with our team and the coalition forces.”

MSD 73 now assumes control of security around the oil platforms and will further the training of the Iraqi marines.

CTF 158 is responsible for maritime security operations (MSO) in the Northern Persian Gulf. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the Northern Persian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure, which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.