Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) - Naval Cruise Book

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VBSS While in ihc Arabian Gull. HARPERS FERRY was a participant in Maritime In- tercept Operations (MIO) in support of the United Na- tions sanctions against Iraq. Vessels suspected of smug- gling contraband (oil. tires, dates and more) were or- dered to stop, and the Visit. Board. Search and Seizure (VBSS) team came aboard to pick the ship apart. The team was separated into two parts. The security team, led by MAC Garcia, was first aboard. Their job was to ensure that the crew was secured and not a threat. Behind them came the sweep team, led by ENS Harrison, and the Boarding Officer. LT McGrath. If the sweep team did find something, the ship was re-routed to port, where her cargo was removed. While there were no hos- tile vessels encountered, the team had to be prepared for such a contingency. We were well-trained, thanks to our Coast Guard shipmates, and we were ready to handle any situation. I ' m just glad that we were able to do something meaningful for our country and not get hurt doing it. -GMG2 James Luster Afc- ' — UI ' l-DCl Spobn. the other half of the sweep team, poses with MAC Gareia in the baekground. Below-Far in the distance sits HARPERS FERRY, with all eyes trained on the vessel where the VBSS team makes its search. 1 26 .VBSS Operations

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p EAGER MACE Aho c-This dc il doig is ready Cor another morning in the desert. Right-This is where the Ma- rines slept during the exer- cise. Not very cozy at all. 28 • Marines In I he Field