Landing the Big One

Landing the Big One

Monday, June 09, 2008

Gulf of Aden: USS Russell rescues smuggled people


A humanitarian rescue in the Gulf of Aden courtesy of USS Russell(DDG-9) as set here
USS Russell (DDG 59) responded to a vessel in distress between Bossasso, Somalia and the Yemeni coast in the Gulf of Aden June 8.

A Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 air asset notified Russell of the small boat's distress call. Russell, operating nearby, proceeded at maximum speed and arrived on-scene to assist the vessel. The 45-foot small boat experienced serious engine problems, leaving it unable to operate at sea, and had been adrift for two days.

There were approximately 70 personnel on board the vessel, some of whom were in need of immediate medical attention. Seven personnel were transferred to Russell and treated for severe dehydration and malnutrition. The vessel was also re-provisioned for the night and Russell is towing it towards Somalia where the small boat and patients will be turned over to Somali authorities.
Photo credit:
Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Nicholas Mason, left, takes vital signs of a patient brought aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) as Ens. Melanie Chambers, Ens. Lisa Bydairk and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Matthew Thompson assist. Russell responded to a vessel in distress Sunday, June 8, 2008 between Bassasso, Somalia and the Yemeni coast in the Gulf of Aden. The 45-foot small boat had serious engine problems leaving it adrift for two days. U.S. Navy photo (Released)
I hope the "Somali authorities" sort out who the smugglers are and carry out an appropriate punishment.

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