USS Gary (FFG 51) and embarked Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 45 Detachment (Det) 2 departed April 8 for a deployment supporting counter-illicit trafficking (CIT) in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
The frigate's mission will be to counteract trafficking in illegal substances and halt illegal activities. U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) 103 will conduct boarding and seizure missions aboard suspected trafficking vessels during the deployment. CIT operations are joint efforts designed to support participating nation's drug control programs.
Gary completed an extensive maintenance, upkeep and rigorous training cycle in preparation for the deployment. Gary is commanded by Cmdr. Daniel J. Senesky and the ship falls under Commander, Destroyer Squadron 1, led by Capt. Michael W. Selby, commodore, who saw the Gary off at her departure.
He commended the Sailors for their hard work during the past several months, which included a successful Board of Inspection and Survey material inspection that certified the frigate fit for sustained combat operations.
Gary's mission will directly support the U.S. maritime strategy by providing sustained interdiction operations and promoting cooperative relationships with the Coast Guard to provide a layered defense of the homeland.