USNS Mercy Celebrates 25 Years of Service
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS111219-11
12/19/2011
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Regan, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Crew members and visitors gathered on the mess decks of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) Dec. 19 to celebrate its 25 years of service as a hospital ship.
The crew cut a cake after a few words from Commanding Officer, Capt. Timothy Hinman, marking the quarter-century milestone.
"It's an honor to be a part of this 25-year anniversary celebrating the heritage of this ship," said Hinman. "We are part of such a remarkable legacy which has provided tsunami relief and humanitarian aid during conflicts and taken part in numerous Pacific Partnership events."
Mercy carries a longstanding tradition of humanitarian aid provided by Sailors and civilians who are proud to serve on board.
"I was stationed here 16 years ago as a young Sailor and was honored to be able to come back and now serve as the ship's senior enlisted leader," said Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Guy Gagui.
Mercy was transformed from the oil tanker SS Worth and was commissioned as a USNS hospital ship in 1986.
Since then, Mercy has continued on the legacy of providing humanitarian aid when called upon.
"Service is our main mission on this ship, whether it's dealing with conflicts, natural disasters or call for aid, we help others with humanitarian aid," said Hinman.
Mercy is currently preparing for Pacific Partnership 2012, which is an ongoing effort to provide humanitarian support and strengthen bonds throughout the Pacific region.
"The ship is currently getting ready to take part in Pacific Partnership 2012 and we couldn't be more excited," said Hinman. "Everyone is really eager to work side by side with the partner and host nations of this mission."
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