This port go to, as a part of the train, strengthens the U.S.-Gabonese partnership as the 2 nations work collectively for a secure, safe, and affluent Gulf of Guinea and West Africa area. The ship can even host a reception for distinguished guests to kick off the train. These occasions permit the Sailors and CIVMARs of Hershel “Woody” Williams an opportunity to expertise Gabon’s wealthy tradition, historical past and hospitality as a crucial regional companion.
Following the scheduled port go to to Libreville, Gabon, Hershel “Woody” Williams will be a part of the at-sea portion of Obangame Categorical with greater than 30 international locations slated to take part. The train will embody Go to, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS), Unmanned Floor Car (USV’s) launches and recoveries, and personnel change coaching evolutions.
“The port go to is the right alternative to strengthen relationships with our companions,” stated CAPT Lenard Mitchell, commanding officer of USS Hershel “Woody” Williams Gold MILCREW. “The US Navy’s help for Obangame Categorical demonstrates our dedication to the area, and these kinds of engagements underscore the potential for future interoperability.”
After Train Obangame Categorical 2024, Hershel “Woody” Williams will proceed its deployment alongside the African continent, leveraging alternatives to work alongside regional allies and companions in quite a lot of workouts and operations to enhance maritime safety, and spotlight our shared dedication to fostering regional safety and stability.
USS Hershel “Woody” Williams is ahead deployed to Souda Bay, Greece and serves as the primary U.S. Navy ship completely assigned to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) space of accountability. The ship is able to conducting expeditionary missions, counter piracy, maritime safety, and humanitarian help and catastrophe aid operations. The ship operates with blue and gold crews, permitting it to stay regularly deployed all through AFRICOM.
For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has solid strategic relationships with allies and companions, leveraging a basis of shared values to protect safety and stability.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces within the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of accountability. U.S. Sixth Fleet is completely assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces by the total spectrum of joint and naval operations.
