The guided-missile frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48) will return from its six-month, independent deployment to the Western Pacific Ocean Nov. 28.
Vandegrift participated in five exercises supporting Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2012.
CARAT is an annual bi-lateral naval exercise series between the U.S. and Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Vandegrift also conducted operations with the carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while deployed.
“The honor of commanding this outstanding crew and returning this proud warship to its homeport after a successful deployment is matched only by the respect deserved by our Sailors and their families,” said Capt. H. Thomas Workman , Vandegrift’s commanding officer. “Their mutual dedication to our national objectives is unmatched and represents the cornerstone of Vandegrift’s and our Navy’s success.”
Third Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the West Coast of North America to the international date line and is responsible for providing realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, November 28, 2012