Military

USS Boxer Enjoys Port Visit to Bahrain

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070304-01
Release Date: 3/4/2007 9:25:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Joshua Martin, USS Boxer Public Affairs

USS BOXER, At sea (NNS) -- USS Boxer’s (LHD 4) crew enjoyed the sights and culture of Manama, Bahrain, Feb. 20-25 for the third time during its deployment to the U.S 5th Fleet’s area of operation.

The visit gave Boxer Sailors a well-deserved break from conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the Arabian Gulf and offered them the opportunity to once again explore and experience the small island nation, as well as all its amenities.

“There was a new movie that I really wanted to see, and I ended up finding a really cool theater this time,” said Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class (SW) Tim Chima.

Boxer’s Sailors also took part in some friendly competition. Boxer’s women’s basketball team challenged the Naval Station Activity (NSA) Bahrain women’s team to a game. Boxer’s Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Nichols was on hand to cheer on his team and even showed his support by doing pushups each time Boxer made a basket.

“A lot of people came out to support us,” said Information Technician Specialist 2nd Class Michelle Robinson.” It was a close match, and I had a great time.”

Bahrain also boasts an outdoor go-kart track, which many Boxer Sailors experienced. The F-1 style go-karts, with speeds topping more than 25 mph, let Sailors experience the thrill of racing against each other.

“I found out about the go-kart track and, I knew I had to do it,” said Yeoman Seaman Matthew Hilderbrand. “It was an adrenaline rush to go out there and let loose for a while.”

Whether on base or off, Boxer Sailors had many opportunities to relax and get some rest before heading back out to sea.

“It’s always good to get some down time,” said Boxer’s Administration Officer Lt. Cmdr. Bob Saunders. “Everyone on board Boxer has been doing an outstanding job and deserved this liberty.”

Boxer is currently operating in the Arabian Gulf conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the Arabian Gulf and protect Iraq’s sea-based infrastructure which provides the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination.

U.S. 5th Fleet’s area of operation encompasses about 2.5 million square miles and includes the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse also includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.