Celebrating Navy Excellence: Key Takeaways from the Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year Award

Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year,

Introduction

The United States Navy has a long and proud history of excellence, and the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to ensuring that this tradition continues. Recently, the Navy Reserve Center Miami announced Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, highlighting the dedication and skill of the men and women who serve our nation. In this blog post, we will explore the key takeaways from this achievement and how it reflects the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Summary

The Navy Reserve Center Miami recently announced Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication to service. This achievement is a testament to the excellence and commitment of the men and women who serve in the Navy Reserve. In this blog post, we will explore the key takeaways from this award and how it reflects the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication to service.
  • The Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year award highlights the exceptional dedication and performance of Navy personnel.
  • This award demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Navy to excellence and professionalism.
  • By recognizing the achievements of Navy personnel, we can inspire future generations to serve their country and uphold the values of the Navy.

Conclusion:

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be a part of the Navy community and to support the men and women who serve our nation. The Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and excellence of Navy personnel, and we are honored to celebrate this achievement. We encourage all Americans to support our Navy and to uphold the values of peace, strength, and security that the Navy represents.

Honoring the Best: Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet

Introduction

The American Navy has been instrumental in keeping the nation safe and secure. The Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to report on recent developments and innovations that promote a stronger and more effective Navy. This blog post will focus on the Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet, held during Fleet Week, which honors the service members’ accomplishments and hard work.

Summary

The Fort Lauderdale Council of the Navy League hosted the Enlisted Person of the Year banquet to honor Sailors and Marines during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas. Each Sailor and Marine was announced, and their Command Master Chief or Leading Chief Petty Officer would describe the accomplishments that earned their selection as Sailor of the Year for the command. This year is the 32nd time the Navy has come down for Fleet Week Port Everglades to showcase naval technology and the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who defend the nation.

Recognition

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is a vital event that recognizes the hard work and accomplishments of Sailors and Marines. This event offers several key benefits that strengthen the Navy and the nation, including:

Service members are recognized for their hard work and dedication, which promotes morale and motivates them to continue to excel in their service.

The service members recognized include:

  • Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kristin Stoops from USS Cole (DDG 67)
  • Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun from Navy Recruiting District Miami
  • Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega from Navy Reserve Center Miami
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan from Navy Region Southeast
  • Machinist’s Mate (Auxillary) 3rd Class Fernando Villarreal from USS Indiana (SSN 789)
  • Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ernesto Rivera
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown
  • Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Charmae Peria
  • Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Sydney Thayer from USS New York (LPD 2)
  • U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp from Second Assault Amphibian Battlion

Learning tool

Recognized Sailors and Marines can use the experience as a learning tool to motivate junior Sailors in the future.

Realistic Testing or Implementation:
The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet was held during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas.

Conclusion

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is an event that promotes a stronger Navy and honors the accomplishments and hard work of Sailors and Marines. The Americans for a Stronger Navy encourages readers to support the Navy and the nation by promoting the importance of the Navy and its service members. Let us rally together and support our Navy, which is instrumental in keeping our nation safe and secure.

US Seizure of Oil Vessel Triggers Iran Tanker Capture

Frame grab from video released Friday April 28, 2023, Iranian marines rappel onto the Advantage Sweet, a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker’s deck in the Gulf of Oman.

The US seizure of an oil vessel carrying Iranian crude oil and bound for China triggered Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker on Thursday, according to sources.

The US Department of Justice seized the tanker, the Suez Rajan, under a court order with the cooperation of at least one company involved with the vessel.

The tanker has been the subject of scrutiny since it was accused last year of taking on board a cargo of Iranian oil, then intended for China, from another ship near Singapore.

The US action towards the Suez Rajan sheds new light on Iran’s decision to capture the Advantage Sweet, a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.

The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital. That contrasts with the so-called “ghost fleet” of vessels usually used to move Iranian oil.

Key points:

  • US authorities ordered a tanker of Iranian crude oil to redirect towards the US, prompting Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.
  • The US Department of Justice seized the tanker, the Suez Rajan, under a court order with the cooperation of at least one company involved with the vessel.
  • The US seizure will raise questions about whether US-linked operators were given sufficient warning of the potential increased dangers of sailing ships close to Iran.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade in Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital.

Key takeaways:

  • The US seizure of the Iranian oil vessel triggered Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade of Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group, leading to a civil legal action in Manhattan.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital, which contrasts with the so-called “ghost fleet” of vessels usually used to move Iranian oil.

Conclusion:

The US seizure of the Iranian oil vessel and subsequent retaliation from Iran highlights the tensions between the two nations and the increasing enforcement of sanctions on Iran. The involvement of US-linked operators and the alleged trade of Iranian oil by the Suez Rajan raises questions about the effectiveness of sanctions and the need for increased transparency in the shipping industry.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy’s mission to inform and inspire readers to subscribe is even more important in light of these recent events as a strong navy is essential in protecting the US’s interests and maintaining peace in the international waters.

Facts:

  • US authorities redirected a tanker of Iranian crude oil towards the US, prompting Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude chartered by Chevron.
  • The US Department of Justice seized the Suez Rajan, a tanker accused last year of taking on board a cargo of Iranian oil, under a court order with cooperation from at least one company involved with the vessel.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade in Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group, leading to a civil legal action in Manhattan.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital, which contrasts with the so-called

Celebrating Women’s Contributions to the Military at Fleet Week Port Everglades

Members of the USS Cole (DDG-67), USS New York (LPD-21), USS Indiana (SSN 789), USNS Newport, Marines from the 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, Coast Guardsmen from the local area and local citizens stopped for a group photo during the Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon. This luncheon has been an annual event on the Fleet Week Port Everglades schedule since 2017. (Photo by Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs Specialist Twilla Burns/released).

Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon at Lauderdale Yacht Club

Nearly 80 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen attended a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, honoring the service of women in the military and providing a chance to socialize with professional women in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Speeches by Female Officers

The event featured speeches from two female officers, Lt. Lexie Silva and Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch, who shared their experiences as officers in the Navy.

Lt. Lexie Silva’s Experience as a Submariner

Lt. Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy, and how important it is to her to be a good leader. She shared, “Many think to be a female submariner today is exceptional. I feel lucky to be a part of that small group, but even luckier to be a part of something bigger and more impactful. Being a member of the crew of USS Indiana (SSN-789) means I am part of a family – a family of hardworking and humble submariners that don’t see me as a woman submariner but see me more simply as a submariner, just like them.” Silva also stated, “I get to lead and work with a group of the smartest and most caring Sailors I have encountered. I’ve learned about working hard and how to get a “yes” in the face of impossible material issues.”

Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch’s Role as a Navy Chaplain

Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch, who is a Navy Chaplain, spoke about how she knew her job was vital for the Navy, and how she felt about her role onboard and her strongest motivations. She shared, “When I think about my role in service, I’m not only glad to be the first female chaplain on the Cole, but what also brings me joy is the why I am where I am. I remain committed to serve at the forefront of the Navy for the purposes of the Almighty…Who cares for His children wherever they serve to remind them of their identity, their purpose, and the source of their strength.”

Fleet Week Port Everglades Showcases Pride in Service

Fleet Week Port Everglades allows Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. The event will continue until the ships depart Sunday, April 30.

Key Takeaways:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club provided a chance to honor the service of women in the military and socialize with professional women in the area.
Lt. Lexie Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy and the importance of being a good leader.
Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch discussed her role as a Navy Chaplain and her motivation for serving.
Fleet Week Port Everglades allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents.

Conclusion:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at Fleet Week Port Everglades was a powerful reminder of the vital contributions women have made to our armed forces. As Lt. Silva and Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch shared their experiences, it was clear that they, like many other women in the military, are trailblazers and leaders in their own right. We are grateful for their service and the service of all women in the military. If you would like to learn more about Fleet Week Port Everglades and other events celebrating our military, visit

Fact: Fleet Week Port Everglades is an annual event that allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. This year’s event took place from April 26 to April 30, 2023, and included a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club.

Iran seizes oil tanker bound for Texas: US Navy

Iran has seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman according to the Associated Press

The US Navy’s 5th Fleet called for the vessel’s immediate release, adding that Iran’s actions were contrary to international law and destabilizing to regional security. The vessel had just left Kuwait and was headed to Houston, Texas. Iran did not acknowledge the seizure, and the vessel’s owners were not immediately available for comment. The incident is the latest in a string of tanker seizures and explosions in the region amid heightened tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Key Points:

  • Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman.iThe
  • US Navy’s 5th Fleet called for the vessel’s immediate release.
  • The tanker had just left Kuwait and was headed to Houston, Texas.
  • Iran did not acknowledge the seizure, and the vessel’s owners were not immediately available for comment.
  • Tanker seizures and explosions have been a part of a wider shadow war between Iran and the West since 2019

Conclusion:

The seizure of the Advantage Sweet by Iran underscores the need for a strong navy to ensure regional security and stability. Tanker seizures have become a tactic in the shadow war between Iran and the West, and incidents like these only serve to increase tensions. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to informing and inspiring readers to support the mission of a strong navy.

By subscribing to our website, you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments and help us rally support for this important cause.

According to a report by the Associated Press, Iran has seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The incident underscores the need for a strong navy to ensure regional security and stability, as tanker seizures have become a tactic in the shadow war between Iran and the West. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to informing and inspiring readers to support the mission of a strong navy, and this incident only reinforces the urgency of our cause.

US Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) reveal its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions

South China Sea, – An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) as the ship prepares to pull alongside the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) for an underway replenishment. Credit: DVIDS.

The US Department of Defense has released its annual Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) for the fiscal year 2022, protesting against 22 excessive maritime claims worldwide. FONOPs are protests made by the DoD against “unlawful maritime claims” that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order. The FONOP made against Malaysia in the South China Sea seeks to prevent the country from prohibiting military exercises or manoeuvres in its economic exclusive zone without consent. While this is an affront to Malaysia’s self-determination, it is seen as a potential military exercise to be conducted in the SCS in the near future. Similarly, Taiwan is included as a claimant in the SCS, and challenging its prerequisite for prior notification for foreign military or government vessels to enter its territorial sea will give the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.

US protests against excessive maritime claims

The US Department of Defense has released its annual Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) protesting against 22 excessive maritime claims for 2022, revealing its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific

Countries around the world are jostling to maintain their interests at sea more than ever before, largely due to the geopolitical tensions across the Indo-Pacific. Within this boiling pot of competing interests in the region, the US Department of Defense (DoD) has released its annual FONOPs in its report for the fiscal year 2022.

FONOPs challenge unlawful maritime claims

FONOPs are protests made by the DoD against “unlawful maritime claims” that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order.

FONOPs against Malaysia

The FONOP made against Malaysia in the South China Sea seeks to prevent the country from prohibiting military exercises or manoeuvres in its economic exclusive zone without consent. Politically, this is an affront to the country’s self-determination, and it is also hypocritical given the DoD’s claim that its FONOPs aim to “uphold the freedom of navigation as a principle”.

Potential military exercise in the SCS

However, in the broader context of their conflict with the PRC, which we see from the FONOPs made against them, is encroaching upon its neighbouring territories, from India to Taiwan. As tensions rise in the SCS, this FONOP signals a potential military exercise to be conducted in the SCS in the near future. This tactic would follow the large-scale military exercises the US have conducted this year on the Korean peninsula and in the Middle East that were designed to deter their adversaries.

Challenging Taiwan’s prerequisite for prior notification

Similarly, Taiwan is included as a claimant in the SCS as well, as the island country requires prior notification for foreign military or government vessels to enter its territorial sea. Challenging this prerequisite will give the US far more manoeuvrability as the DoD seek to contain the PRC, and potentially control the wider activity in the region such as commerce.

Conclusion

The US Department of Defense’s annual Freedom of Navigation Operations protests against excessive maritime claims and reveals its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. With tensions rising in the South China Sea, the FONOP made against Malaysia and Taiwan seeks to prevent restrictions on military exercises and manoeuvres, giving the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region

Key takeaways

  • The US Department of Defense’s annual Freedom of Navigation Operations protests against excessive maritime claims and reveals its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
    FONOPs challenge unlawful maritime claims that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order.
  • The FONOP made against Malaysia seeks to prevent restrictions on military exercises and manoeuvres, giving the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.
  • Challenging Taiwan’s prerequisite for prior notification will give the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.

US Ships Arrive FT Lauderdale, FL for Fleet Week

Introduction:

Greetings to all our members and subscribers! We at Americans for a Stronger Navy are thrilled to share the latest news from the 32nd Fleet Week Port Everglades in Southeast Florida. This event is an excellent opportunity for Southeast Florida residents to witness and tour Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ships. We believe that promoting Peace Through Strength is crucial, and events such as Fleet Week Port Everglades provide an excellent platform to showcase the capabilities of the US Navy.

PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (April 23, 2023) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) watch as the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) arrives in port for Fleet Week Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. This year marks the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week. Fleet Week has been hosted by Broward Navy Days and other military support organizations since 1990, interrupted by COVID in 2020 and 2021. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary D. Behrend)

The USS Cole, a US Navy destroyer commissioned in 1996, arrived first at the 32nd Fleet Week Port Everglades, followed by the USS New York, USS Indiana, and USNS Newport on April 23. The USCGC William Flores will arrive the following day. Over 9,000 reservations were taken for the Monday through Saturday tours, indicating the event’s popularity. The Navy Band will perform at over 15 venues in the city, including at the Florida Panthers’ playoff game and the Miami Marlins’ game.

Community Engagement

“We look forward to being in Port Everglades to spend time with the outstanding citizens of South Florida,” said Rear Adm. Tom Williams, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group TWO. The ships’ crew and servicemembers will be volunteering at various locations across Fort Lauderdale, including mentoring and visiting with students from several area schools, helping refurbish areas around the Naval Air History Museum, visiting veterans at a senior facility, and supporting youth fitness at two separate YMCA events.

Educational Initiatives

On Monday, more than 800 JROTC students from Broward County Schools will visit the ships as part of a Fleet Week STEM summit, followed by 300 JROTC cadets from Miami on Tuesday morning as part of the youth VIP tours. In addition to the ships, equipment displays, Marine and Navy recruiting information, and Navy environmental programs will be available for visitors to see as they wait for their tours.

Events and Competitions

The Sailors will participate in a series of other events, including an all-hands welcome ceremony involving the mayor, a salute to veterans event and a salute to women in the military, a traditional chili cook-off against local fire and police teams, and a Damage Control Olympics competition. The latter will pit teams of Sailors from each ship and the USCG against each other through a series of challenging events at a damage control trainer.

Key Takeaways:

The 32nd Fleet Week Port Everglades is an excellent opportunity for Southeast Florida residents to witness and tour Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ships.
More than 9,000 reservations were taken for the Monday through Saturday tours, indicating the event’s popularity.
The event provides an excellent platform to showcase the capabilities of the US Navy and promote Peace Through Strength.
In addition to the ships, equipment displays, Marine and Navy recruiting information, and Navy environmental programs will be available for visitors to see.
The Sailors will participate in a series of other events and competitions, including an all-hands welcome ceremony, a chili cook-off, and a Damage Control Olympics competition.
The servicemembers will be volunteering at various locations across Fort Lauderdale, including mentoring and visiting with students from several area schools and visiting veterans at a senior facility.

Conclusion:

We hope that the news of the 32nd Fleet Week Port Everglades has inspired you to learn more about the capabilities of the US Navy and its commitment to promoting Peace Through Strength. We encourage our readers to be an active supporter by subscribing to our website, StrongerNavy.org. We thank you for your time and for supporting a Stronger Navy

USS Nimitz and Carrier Strike Group Arrive in Thailand After Journey Across South China Sea

This handout photo taken on April 4, 2023 and provided by the South Korean Defence Ministry in Seoul shows the US Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (C), the South Korean Navy’s destroyer Yulgok Yi I (R) and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s destroyer Umigiri (front L) sailing in formation during a joint naval exercise in the international waters off South Korea’s southern island of Jeju. (Photo by Handout / South Korean Defence Ministry / AFP)

Greetings to our members and subscribers, and to all Americans who share our mission of promoting Peace Through Strength.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe that a strong and capable Navy is essential to ensuring global peace and security.

We are excited to bring you the latest news and updates from the U.S. Navy, and to inspire you to join us in supporting this vital mission.

USS Nimitz and Carrier Strike Group Arrive in Thailan

The U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and its carrier strike group have arrived in Thailand for a week-long visit. The Nimitz crossed the South China Sea and made a U-turn in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone before arriving in Thailand’s territorial waters. The Nimitz’s automatic identification system (AIS) signal was turned on at around 21:30 p.m. UTC on Sunday, and it arrived and docked at Laem Chabang Port three hours later.

The Nimitz’s Journey Across the South China Sea.

The journey across the South China Sea is significant given the tensions in the region, and the ongoing disputes over territorial claims in the area. The Nimitz’s presence in the region is intended to promote peace and stability, and to demonstrate the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region.

Trilateral Exercise with Japan and South Korea

Prior to arriving in Thailand, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group conducted a trilateral maritime exercise with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Republic of Korea Navy. The exercise was conducted on April 3-4 and aimed to enhance cooperation and interoperability among the three navies.

Key takeaways:

The USS Nimitz and Carrier Strike Group have arrived in Thailand for a week-long visit
The Nimitz crossed the South China Sea and made a U-turn in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone before arriving in Thailand
The Nimitz’s journey is significant given the tensions in the region and ongoing territorial disputes
The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group conducted a trilateral maritime exercise with Japan and South Korea on April 3-4 to enhance cooperation and interoperability

In conclusion, the USS Nimitz’s journey across the South China Sea and its visit to Thailand highlight the importance of a strong and capable U.S. Navy in promoting peace and stability in the region. The trilateral exercise with Japan and South Korea demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to enhancing cooperation and interoperability among allied navies. We encourage all Americans to support a Stronger Navy by subscribing to our mission at StrongerNavy.org. Thank you for your time and for your support.

U.S. Navy Intercepts Fishing Vessel Smuggling $42 Million in Illegal Drugs

U.S. Navy Intercepts Fishing Vessel Smuggling $42 Million in Illegal Drugs

Greetings to all members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy!

As an organization dedicated to promoting Peace Through Strength, we are proud to share a recent success story of the U.S. Navy in supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 in interdicting a fishing vessel smuggling illegal drugs in the Gulf of Oman.

Content Summary

USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), operating under CTF 150, intercepted a fishing vessel smuggling 802 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1,000 kilograms of hashish worth $42 million. The crewmembers of the vessel were identified as Iranian nationals.

Before the Navy and Coast Guard members could seize the vessel, five smugglers attempted to discard 50 bags of methamphetamine by throwing them overboard.

However, some of the bags were recovered. Maritime forces supporting CTF 150 have seized illegal drugs worth an estimated U.S. street value of $150 million in 2023 alone, contributing to the total of $1 billion in value in drug interdictions by U.S. and international naval units in 2021 and 2022.

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Navy intercepted a fishing vessel smuggling illegal drugs worth $42 million in the Gulf of Oman.
Maritime forces supporting CTF 150 have seized illegal drugs worth an estimated U.S. street value of $150 million in 2023 alone.
U.S. and international naval units have contributed to a total of $1 billion in value in drug interdictions in 2021 and 2022.
CTF 150 conducts maritime security and counter-terrorism operations in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean to disrupt criminal and terrorist organizations and their related illicit activities.
Conclusion:
The successful interception by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard members under CTF 150 highlights the importance of promoting Peace Through Strength. We commend the sailors for their outstanding work in removing illicit narcotics from the high seas and deterring destabilizing activity in regional waters. As supporters of a Stronger Navy, we encourage our readers to subscribe and continue to engage with us in promoting a stronger and more secure America.

Iran alleges that it forced a U.S. submarine to surface in Gulf, U.S. Fifth fleet denies

Greetings to all our members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

As an organization, our mission is to promote Peace Through Strength, a valuable central theme that aligns with our goals.

In this blog post, we would like to bring to your attention to an incident that Iran alleged recently occurred in the Gulf involving the United States Navy Fifth Fleet and Iran’s navy. We hope that this story will inspire you to continue supporting our mission and to engage Americans to rally behind the cause of a stronger Navy.

United States Fifth Fleet insignia

On April 20, Iranian navy commander Shahram Irani claimed that Iran’s navy had forced a U.S. submarine to surface as it entered the Gulf. He said that the Iranian submarine Fateh detected the U.S. submarine approaching while submerged and carried out manoeuvres to force it to surface as it went through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Irani, the U.S. submarine had also entered Iranian territorial waters but corrected its course after being warned. However, the United States Navy’s Fifth Fleet denied that such an incident had taken place, calling it Iranian disinformation.

Background on Iranian-U.S. confrontations

Iranian and U.S. forces have had a number of confrontations in the past. In early April, the Iranian navy said it had identified and warned off a U.S. reconnaissance plane outside the mouth of the Gulf. In 2019, Iran shot down a U.S. drone which it said was flying over southern Iran.

Key takeaways:

  • Iran’s navy claimed to have forced a U.S. submarine to surface as it entered the Gulf, but the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet denied that such an incident had occurred.
  • Iran has had confrontations with the U.S. Navy in the past, including identifying and warning off a U.S. reconnaissance plane in early April 2023 and shooting down a U.S. drone in 2019.

    In conclusion, we hope that this story has shed light on the importance of a strong Navy in promoting peace through strength. We urge all our readers to support our mission and engage Americans to rally behind the cause of a stronger Navy. Let us work together to ensure that our Navy is well-equipped and prepared to face any challenge that may arise.