SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS McClusky (FFG 41) returned to San Diego April 5 after an independent six-month deployment to the 4th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR).
"McClusky's recent deployment in support of counter-illicit trafficking operations is a great example of how the Surface Forces of our Navy can have an immediate and lasting impact on our nation and global partners," said McClusky's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Mark A. Lakamp. "The men and women of McClusky carried out their mission with professionalism and enthusiasm."
USS McClusky performed a variety of tasks during the deployment. The ship seized or disrupted more than 11 metric tons of cocaine, with an estimated street value of more than $775 million, and detained 13 suspected narcotic smugglers.
McClusky also operated with Costa Rican, Colombian, and Panamanian law enforcement during Operation Pacifico and Operation Triangulo in a joint effort to counter illicit drug traffic.
While in Panama and Costa Rica, Sailors from McClusky contributed more than 400 man hours to community relations projects by refurbishing a host nation school and a summer camp for underprivileged children, as well as delivering medical supplies donated by Project Handclasp.
"McClusky Sailors performed superbly in a dynamic environment that tested their resolve almost daily," said McClusky's Command Senior Chief, Senior Chief Cryptologic Technician Technical (SW/SG) Steven Giordano. "As senior leadership, we provide education and training to assist our Sailors in achieving personal and professional goals. These proud Surface Warriors are returning home to be reunited with their families and friends and they have not just met, but exceeded expectations."
McClusky helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's maritime strategy when forward deployed.
