Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Allen Cameron and Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Juan Mejia lower the National Ensign aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) for the ship's departure from Pearl Harbor. Peleliu is currently in Pearl Harbor for a scheduled port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Shannon K. Cassidy)USS PELELIU, At Sea (NNS) -- The San Diego-based Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group (PELESG) departed Naval Station Pearl Harbor, May 12, following a two-day port visit that served as the first leg of the 2008 deployment.
"Hawaii is always a favorite port call for Sailors and Marines on deployment," said Capt. Jon Padfield, the commander of Amphibious Squadron 3. "We enjoy bringing young Sailors and Marines to historic places such as Pearl Harbor and are always welcomed by the warm hospitality of the wonderful people here."
While in Hawaii, many Sailors and Marines from the PELESG took advantage of the ship's and Naval Station Pearl Harbor's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) discounted ticket program for tours and attractions all over the island -- including luaus and golf. Other Sailors and Marines visited the historic USS Arizona Memorial as well as the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
The PELESG is led by Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 3 and includes the flag ship, USS Peleliu (LHA 5), the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the amphibious ships USS Dubuque (LPD 8) and USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and the guided-missile destroyers USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Benfold (DDG 65).
The PELESG departed Naval Station San Diego, May 4, for a regularly scheduled deployment in support of U.S. national security objectives.