Navy photograph by PO3 Nathan T. BeardThe amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) transits the Atlantic Ocean. Kearsarge is underway conducting Atlantic operations.
Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Adm. Phil Davidson, has ordered the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) to get underway from their Norfolk, Va., homeports to support federal, state and local authorities ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
Kearsarge along with Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit departed Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Aug. 31. Oak Hill will depart from Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va.
Navy photograph by PO3 Desmond ParksHarper’s Ferry class dock landing amphibious assault ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) is anchored off the coast of Honduras. Oak Hill is delivering the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Southern Command (SPMAGTF-SC) which while deployed in Central America will support engineering assistance projects in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Belize. The SPMAGTF-SC will be available to support disaster relief and disaster preparedness, if requested. Oak Hill is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility. Oak Hill is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility.
These ships are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, medium and heavy lift air support, and bring a diverse capability including assessment and security.
State and local agencies are in the lead for this response effort. We recognize recovery from this catastrophic disaster will be a long-term effort. We are leaning forward to fully support FEMA and Texas with DoD assistance as requested.