The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) offloaded approximately 700 personnel, 11 Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAVs), and 53 other vehicles attached to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) November 30th, 2018.

This is the culmination of a developed partnership between the 24th MEU and New York which started approximately two months ago in preparation for the NATO-led exercise Trident Juncture ‘18.  During the exercise, more than 14,000 U.S. service members from each branch of service along with the integrated New York-24th MEU team, worked to enhance professional relationships and improve overall coordination with ally and partner militaries participating in the exercise.

During this time the blue-green came together to form one cohesive unit.

“Every Sailor that my Marines and I have worked with over the last two months has been very kind, courteous, and conducted them with the upmost professionalism, said Staff Sergeant Robert Navarro. “ It is truly confidence building to see the Navy Marine Corps team work together so efficiently through oceans, storms, and operations.  My Marines and I are incredibly grateful for the privilege of working with the Sailors aboard the New York.”

The offload started with the launch of embarked AAVs.  Next, the USS New York pulled into Morehead, North Carolina to offload vehicles and cargo and disembark troops.  In order for this to run smoothly, there has to be precise coordination between multiple groups aboard the ship.

“It takes lots of planning and coordination between Deck Department, Combat Cargo and ACU-4 to conduct vehicle offload.  We start by conducting an offload brief no more than 24hrs in advance, incorporating the load plan given to Deck by the Combat Cargo Officer.  This way everyone is in sync on intentions and timelines,” said Boatswain’s Mate Chief William Dahn. “The day before an offload, we would normally launch the landing craft, air cushions if we have any onboard and send them to the beach for the night.  Deck and Combat Cargo will also use this day to pre-stage all vehicles and boxes in the well; this allows for a speedy offload once New York is pier side and has obtained permission to offload.”

This offload allows the 24th MEU to go home and spend some time with their families for the holiday.  Upon completion, New York will return to the sea to meet additional mission requirements before heading home.

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