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Patriot Makes Short Stop in Okinawa

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070427-11
Release Date: 4/27/2007 3:31:00 PM

By Chief Electrician's Mate (SW) Noel B. Corneja, USS Patriot Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The two forward-deployed Avenger-class mine sweepers USS Guardian (MCM 5) and USS Patriot (MCM 7) based in Sasebo pulled into the island of Okinawa on April 20 for basic supply, fuel, rest and recreation.

Upon arrival, Patriot’s commanding officer, Lt. Cmdr. Thomas Shultz called for an unscheduled day of liberty, giving the crew time for themselves to relax, exercise and shop for those last-minute needed personal amenities prior to embarking on the ship’s scheduled underway period.

“Okinawa really is the perfect stop for a ship,” said Shultz. “Being able to be at a (U.S. Navy) facility allows the crew to take care of their laundry, stop by the barbershop, or head to the exchange to pick up something they forgot."

Shultz added, "Okinawa has so much to do, whether it be enjoying some water sports at one of the fantastic beaches or just relaxing and maybe getting some great food at one of the many restaurants. Okinawa definitely has something for everyone.”

Personnel Specialist 1st Class (SW) Tirso T. Topacio enjoyed the time off and took advantage of the athletic facilities on the island.

“This is great. We have time for ourselves to relax and play with shipmates or even work out in the gym at the same time doing our laundry,” he said. “Playing basketball during time off like this is definitely fun and enjoyable.”

Others were just glad to be on solid ground after adjusting to the rough seas, which made a big impact on a small ship like Patriot.

“I am glad we have this break; that underway was a bumpy one. I can still feel it,” said Storekeeper 3rd Class (SW) Shanin M. Heather. “This is the best time for me to buy necessities that I forgot to bring with me before we left.”

Many other crew members spent their time enjoying the sights and sounds of Okinawa, including visiting local malls, landmarks, picture taking, buying souvenirs and visiting other U.S. military bases.

The short stop in Okinawa for Patriot and Guardian starts the first leg of their spring patrol in which they’ll participate in mine countermeasures exercises with other Asian nations to increase interoperability and readiness.

Patriot and Guardian both serve under the Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility Okinawa, with an operating detachment in Sasebo.