Essex ARG Supports OIR

AV-8B Harriers assigned to the “Greyhawks” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 (Reinforced), which launched from the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), conducted strike missions in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) Aug. 17.

The Harriers executed strike missions to dismantle and ultimately defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) as part of the multinational coalition participating in OIR in the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility.

VMM-161 is the aviation combat element of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) currently embarked with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and deployed to maintain regional security in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

In addition to supporting sorties in support of OIR, the MEU’s Marines and Sailors are deployed to several other locations throughout the 5th Fleet AOR executing sustainment training and engaging regional partners.

Image: US Navy