Multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) departed Naval Station Norfolk Oct. 4 for a three month deployment in support of Southern Partnership Station (SPS).
Wasp's crew of approximately 1,100 Sailors and 365 embarked Marines will work alongside Mayport-based Destroyer Squadron 40 to build and instill interoperability and cooperation between U.S. and partner nation naval forces through a variety of exercises, theater security cooperations (TSC), military-to-military engagements and other positive engagement opportunities.
"Having this opportunity to show what Wasp is all about is important on a number of levels," said Wasp Commanding Officer Capt. Lowell D. Crow. "We've trained hard, we've worked hard in preparing and now it's time to let it show. I'm proud of the work that we've accomplished in such a short period of time, and I'm excited at the prospects we have ahead of us with this deployment."
Wasp's SPS mission is to continue to strengthen the United States' and 4th Fleet's commitment to the region by fostering partnerships, building relationships and improving partner nation capabilities.
"I have no doubt in my mind that it will be a success, and that once again we're going to exceed the expectations that have been set," said Crow. "The sense of pride and accomplishment is apparent throughout the ranks of the crew and mixing that with anticipation for a successful deployment makes for a positive environment."
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