By Seaman Shanika L. Futrell
Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic
NORFOLK, Va. – Arleigh Burke Class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul returned to its homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Nov. 6, 2008, after a six-month independent deployment conducting Humanitarian relief services in the Mediterranean and Black Sea.
McFaul Sailors delivered more than 27 tons of water, hygiene items, baby food, and infant supplies during Operation Assured Delivery. OAD is a U.S. Armed Forces logistical support to humanitarian aid efforts in Georgia following the 2008 South Ossetia conflict.
The 505-foot-long destroyer is home to 275 Sailors and is commanded by Cmdr. Timothy Schorr.
"This deployment was undoubtedly safe and successful," said Schorr. "With every goal that was set, the crew exceeded my expectations and demonstrated excellence in every operational mission that they were apart of by working diligently and showing pride and professionalism."
Mcfaul was part of the Sixth Fleet area of responsibility, and in that area they participated in several exercises such as the Multinational Exercise Sea Breeze.
Multinational Exercise Sea Breeze 2008 is a joint invitational and combined maritime exercise involving 16 countries. It is held in the spirit of partnership for peace in the Black Sea.
"This exercise went very well, and my outstanding crew made this possible. I am pleased to have served with them, as well as the several different nations that participated in the exercise," said Schorr.
Now that the deployment is finished, McFaul is preparing to join the Harry S. Truman Strike Group along with Commander Destroyer Squadron Two Six.
"McFaul's crew were doing outstanding things out there and has a great reputation," said Capt. Michael Strano, commodore, COMDESRON 26. "It's a great opportunity for McFaul to join the Harry S. Truman Strike Group. McFaul will get to participate in all our work-ups and get to deploy with us next year."
Strano also said that Mcfaul will be a great asset to the team judging by the outstanding reputation the crew has made for themselves.
"The crew has shown immense personal dedication and dedication to the Navy during their deployment," said Strano. "It shows that the quality of work that McFaul and her crew is simply outstanding and I look forward to working with them through our work-ups and next deployment."