Crews of the USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez gather for a “Welcome Home” photo when they arrived in Jacksonville in August.
In late August, the crews of the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez and M/V Roy P. Benavidez returned home more than four months after deploying to the Gaza region to participate in a mission to deliver critical humanitarian aid to the conflict-ravaged area.
The ships successfully served in a Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) operation dubbed Operation Neptune Solace, transporting components for a floating pier. Due to the diligent efforts of the crews in daunting circumstances, more than 20 million pounds of desperately needed supplies were delivered over the floating pier to residents in the region.
American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers on each vessel.
The crew of each vessel received a Bravo Zulu from Rear Admiral Philip Sobeck, Commander of Military Sealift Command, welcoming them home and thanking them for their unwavering service to the nation and the people of the Gaza region.
“Your efforts demonstrated impressive adaptability and were instrumental in facilitating and transferring humanitarian assistance into Gaza,” Rear Adm. Sobeck wrote. “Your crew did an outstanding job responding to a global crisis and prevailed in a dangerous and unpredictable area of the world. You return to a grateful nation. As you arrive home from your deployment, please accept my deepest thanks and appreciation for your continued service as you enjoy well-deserved time with family and friends.”
In total, the crew of each vessel spent between 112 and 120 days on mission thousands of miles away from home. In addition to performing the JLOTS mission, the ships housed military personnel and served as a staging area for military equipment and supplies. The USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez, operated by Crowley Government Services for MSC, returned to Jacksonville, Fla. on August 21 and 22 and were greeted by American Maritime Officers National President Willie Barrere.
The Benavidez, operated by Ocean Duchess, was first to arrive in Gaza and returned to Norfolk, Va. on August 29.
“Our AMO officers proved once again that, even in a hazardous and contested environment, the United States Merchant Marine will deliver the cargo,” Barrere said. “I’m proud of our officers who completed their mission in the face of dangerous conditions and honorably assisted a people in deep crisis. This proves, once again, no matter the circumstance, we will deliver the goods.”
Captains Paul Ginnane (USNS Stockham) and Pete Clark (USNS Lopez) received commendations from MSC and Crowley for their efforts during the humanitarian mission to Gaza.
The USNS Stockham and USNS Lopez arrived back in Jacksonville, Fla. in August after more than four months away on a mission to Gaza.