Task Force 59 Aids in Departure of 42 American Citizens from Lebanon

Photo By Master Gunnery Sgt. Demetrio Espinosa | CYPRUS (July 16, 2006) - U.S. citizens exit a U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 helicopter assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) in Cypress following their departure from the U.S. embassy in Beirut, Lebanon. 24 MEU is assigned to the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and U.S. Marines are assisting with the authorized departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Demetrio J. Espinosa (RELEASED)  

CYPRUS

07.17.2006

Courtesy Story

24th Marine Expeditionary Unit

By Commander Task Force 59 Public Affairs

CYPRUS (July 17, 2006) - Today two Marine Corps CH-53E Sea Stallion helicopters aided in the voluntary departure of 42 American citizens from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon. The citizens were transported here where processing and accommodations were coordinated with the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus.

Working in cooperation with U.S. Embassies in Lebanon and Cyprus, Commander Task Force 59, U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen, is leading joint U.S. military coordination efforts from Cyprus.

The Marine helicopters are part of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) currently in the middle of a six-month deployment to the European and Central Command theaters of operation.

American forces are in the operating in the area at the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon. The mission of U.S. forces here is to assist American citizens who wish to voluntarily depart Lebanon. In addition to their primary mission, the safety and security of both American citizens and forces is a top priority.

• Date Taken: 07.17.2006
• Date Posted: 07.17.2006 12:16
• Story ID: 7189
• Location: CY