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USS Milius Supports MSO through Presence and Interaction

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070814-16
Release Date: 8/14/2007 2:39:00 PM

From Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

USS MILIUS, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Milius (DDG 69) and assigned visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) teams are currently supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf through presence operations and interaction patrols (IPATs) with fishermen and merchant vessels operating in the Gulf.

Interaction patrols (IPATS) are an element of MSO which help generate support and awareness amongst commercial vessels sailing in the region of the coalition’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment. Coalition forces also conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely in the region.

“One thing Milius brings to the mission is presence,” said Cmdr. Edmund B. Hernandez, Milius’ commanding officer. “We are 505 feet long, 8,600 tons of coalition warship. We are a very visible deterrent to crime at sea and a reassurance to fishermen and commercial vessels working in the area that we are committed to security so their work can occur safely.”

“We also bring highly trained VBSS teams that are able to carry out IPATs and other boarding operations aimed to build stronger ties with the local mariners and let them know that we are here to help if they should need it,” said Hernandez.

According to Capt. Bradley D. Martin, commander of Combined Task Group (CTG) 152 and commander, Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group, recent operations conducted by Milius have enhanced the security and stability of CTG 152’s area of operations, which includes the Central and Southern Persian Gulf.

“Through presence operations, Milius has helped maintain stability so everyone from the local fisherman to those engaging in international trade feel safe while they go about their daily lives.”

Ensign Andrew M. Anderlonis, a VBSS team boarding officer, said boarding teams approach the commercial vessels cautiously, yet remain friendly.

“The team usually waves to break the ice with the vessel’s crew and a wave in return is a good sign that we are welcome to approach,” said Anderlonis. “The whole crew is normally interested and gathers where we come alongside,” said Anderlonis. “Sometimes, the favor is returned as fishermen give fish to the boarding team. The visit always ends on a good note with the crew happy and smiling after seeing us.”

Although there is potential for danger any time, boarding teams are employed, Anderlonis said that IPATs are an important part of MSO.

“Conducting IPATs allows us to gain more situational awareness of the maritime environment we operate in and helps to reinforce the coalition presence in the area," said Anderlonis. "During the visits, the fishermen say they feel much safer with coalition ships in the area.”

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.