Mlitary Sealift Command's dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) got underway from Norfolk, Virginia to support federal, state and local authorities' ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

"Our main mission is going to be ensuring the other U.S. Navy ships supporting the efforts are able to do their job," said Joshua Tamasovich, USNS William McLean's chief mate. "As the ship's tasking stands currently, McLean is sailing to the Texas and Louisiana areas to provide logistical support to the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51)."

"The crew of McLean is going to be doing what we are really good at; we are ready to deliver food, cargo and fuel to supply the U.S. Navy ships who are going to be directly supporting the disaster relief efforts, as well as any regional crisis support, as required."

USNS William McLean is crewed by approximately 100 civil service mariners who provide all of the ship's services to include cargo handling, navigation and propulsion.

"The good thing about this ship is we bring a lot of support options with us," said Tamasovich. "This ship has a freeze and chill hold so we can make ice if required. We are capable of delivering humanitarian supplies if requested and do have the capability to berth personnel if needed."

Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas, out of the Gulf of Mexico, on August 26 with high wind and rain causing extensive flooding and damage across the region. State and local agencies are leading the response effort.

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