Over the weekend, the United States Navy successfully fended off Houthi attacks of three U.S. flagged vessels being escorted through the Gulf of Aden, U.S. Central Command reported in a press release December 1.
The Stena Impeccable, Maersk Saratoga and the Liberty Grace – each crewed in all licensed positions by American Maritime Officers members – all safely arrived into port after the Navy shot down a half dozen munitions over the course of two days.
According to USCENTCOM, two Navy destroyers successfully engaged and defeated three anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs), three one-way attack uncrewed aerial systems (OWA UAS), and one anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM), ensuring the safety of the ships and their personnel, as well as civilian vessels and their crews.
The involved AMO-contracted operating companies and AMO officials are in contact with the officers on board, and all are safe as they continue with their missions.
“Bravo Zulu to our U.S. Navy for successfully defending our vessels while AMO officers and crews continue to do what U.S. Merchant Mariners have always done – carry out our mission in support of our national forces worldwide no matter what the conditions,” said AMO National President Willie Barrere. “Thank you to the AMO officers and SIU crew on board for your service to our nation.”