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USNS Pathfinder Wraps up Black Sea Mission

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080921-16

Release Date: 9/21/2008 6:41:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jenniffer Rivera, Commander, Navy Region Europe Public Affairs

SEVASTOPOL, Ukraine (NNS) -- Military Sealift Command oceanographic survey ship USNS Pathfinder (T-AGS 60) hosted a reception and tours while pierside in Sevastopol, Ukraine, to celebrate the completion of the ship's joint, at-sea capabilities demonstration Sept. 16.

Civilian surveyors from the U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office, the ship's crew, Ukrainian sailors, surveyors and historians, a team from the U.S.-based Institute of Exploration and local military and government officials gathered to celebrate the success of their 10-day mission using Pathfinder's oceanographic survey capabilities to find and identify shipwrecks in Ukrainian territorial waters.

According to the Institute for Exploration's preliminary cruise report, at least 15 shipwrecks were identified during the mission, including German World War II submarine U-18 and World War I Russian minelayer RUS Prut.

"I am pleased to announce that according to the preliminary results, the international underwater archaeological expedition was a success," said Dr. Serhiy Voronov, director of Ukraine's Department of Underwater Heritage. "The underwater relics of the cultural heritage of Ukraine that were identified made a substantial contribution to the study of the Black Sea and the future creation of a maritime museum."

During the reception, the oceanographers had their multi-beam sonar, side-scan sonar and remotely operated vehicle out on display for guests.

Capt. Doug Cuthbert, deputy director of 6th Fleet's European region, spoke about the partnership between the United States and Ukraine.

"These kinds of missions are invaluable opportunities to strengthen the enduring partnership between the United States and Ukraine," Cuthbert said. "This partnership is as important now as it has been in the past, for instance, when we were allies in World War II."

He added a heartfelt thanks to the families, friends and neighbors of the more than 7 million Ukrainians who lost their lives during World War II.

Pathfinder departed Sevastopol Sept. 17.

MSC operates more than 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.

NAVOCEANO employs approximately 1,100 civilian, military and contract personnel and is responsible for providing oceanographic products and services to all elements within the U.S. Department of Defense.