MDSU 2 Departs for Navy Diver-Southern Partnership 2009

LITTLE CREEK, Va. (NNS) -- Mobile Diving Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 Company 23 departed Little Creek headed to Barbados for Navy Diver Southern Partnership Station (ND-SPS) 2009, June 9.

ND-SPS 2009 is a month-long U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) directed engagement between U.S. and partner nations. During the engagement, MDSU 2's team of 10 Navy divers will be working with Regional Security System (RSS) divers from Antigua/Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, the Commonwealth of Dominica, St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent/Grenadines to improve interoperability and partner nation capacity through cooperative diving operations.

The exchange strengthens relationships forged during ND-SPS 2008 and builds upon the skills learned by all participants.

"Trust and cooperation with partner nations cannot be built over night," said MDSU 2 company commander Chief Warrant Officer James Dertilis. "They must be fostered through continued commitment and professionalism."

Dertilis also pointed out that continued diving exchanges ensure common skills and techniques are practiced in the field.

ND-SPS 2009 divers will share basic diving techniques to include ship's husbandry, hull and pier inspection, dive medicine and underwater photography.

"We look forward to training with our partner nations again this year and plan to improve our diving skills," said MDSU 2 Master Diver Billy Gilbert. "In addition, we look forward to building new friendships and seeing friends that we made last year."

ND-SPS 2009 is part of a continuing effort to improve regional security, stability and interoperability.



For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusns/.