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HSL-42 Detachment 1 Supports MSO Aboard Vella Gulf

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081214-03
Release Date: 12/14/2008 9:58:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

USS VELLA GULF, At Sea (NNS) -- Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 Detachment 1 conducts a variety of missions that support maritime security operations (MSO) in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations (AOO) while embarked aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72).

These missions - which include anti-surface warfare; anti-submarine warfare; reconnaissance; search and rescue; vertical replenishments; and personnel transfers - help Vella Gulf play a crucial role in providing security and stability in the region.

"I cannot imagine being underway without this air detachment," said Capt. Mark Genung, Vella Gulf's commanding officer. "The SH-60B is an extension of the ship, and when they are used to their fullest ability, we are one of the most flexible and capable MSO assets here in the U.S. 5th Fleet."

Lt. Cmdr. Matt Bradshaw, HSL 42's officer in charge aboard Vella Gulf, said the ship and squadron work together to provide security.

"In the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO we help defend ships or other high value units from small boat attacks or from low, slow fliers," said Bradshaw. "We also provide Vella Gulf Sailors with a picture of who's out there over the horizon, averaging six to seven hours a day of flight time. We have flown as many as 12 or 13 hours in a day."

HSL 42 Detachment 1 is homeported in Mayport, Fla., and comprised of 21 Sailors and six officers. They began their current deployment with Vella Gulf in late August.

"The guys are excited to be out here," said Bradshaw. "They see it as a mission that they can look at and say, 'what we are doing is important.'"

Vella Gulf is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike conducting MSO in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations. MSO helps develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

For more news from Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/iwoesg/.