For four decades, USNS 1st LT Baldomero Lopez provided logistical support for the U.S. Armed Forces, predominantly assigned to operations in the Far East.
After years of distinguished service, the Military Sealift Command prepositioning vessel, named in honor of Korean War veteran and Medal of Honor recipient 1st LT Baldomero Lopez, USMC, was decommissioned in Norfolk, with members of American Maritime Officers shepherding her to her final berth.
For her last mission, the USNS Lopez delivered critical humanitarian aid to the Gaza region in contested waters, again with AMO members bravely at the helm.
“To the USNS 1st LT Baldomero Lopez and all the mariners who served onboard, Commander Military Sealift Command wishes you a hearty Bravo Zulu for a job well done! Fair winds and following seas, shipmates,” an MSC tribute wrote. “We have the watch.”
American Maritime Officers members on the last ride of the USNS Lopez in August included Captain John Waters, Second Assistant Engineer Justin Gustafson, Chief Mate Felix Somorostro, Chief Engineer David Powers, Third Mate Hunter Jacques and First Assistant Engineers Aristeo Aquino and Jacob Do. With them are Port Engineer Bryan Hoffmann and Bosun Chris Dionio.
