Military Sealift Command Public Affairs
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Laura M. Seal 202-685-5055
December 28, 2008

MSS 3 provides force protection for Tippecanoe

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael R. McCormick

Sailors from Mobile Security Squadron 3 are providing force protection for Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe while the ship conducts operations in the Gulf of Aden.

Tippecanoe is crewed by civil service mariners working for MSC, and MSS 3 has been tasked with safeguarding the ship's crew and cargo while it conducts replenishment at sea operations off the coast of Somalia.

"We're embarked to provide maritime security and deter piracy attempts against Tippecanoe while the ship conducts its operations," said Chief Master-at-Arms Eric D. Hancock, mission commander aboard Tippecanoe.

"Keeping 5th Fleet ships supplied allows them to remain at sea and provide invaluable support for coalition forces operating off the east coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden."

The Navy's fleet of replenishment ships including oilers like Tippecanoe deliver passengers, mail, cargo, ammunition, fuel and food throughout the 5th Fleet area of operations helping to ensure Sailors aboard ships have what they need to complete their mission. Mobile Security Squadrons help to protect them.

"I'm glad they're here," said Capt. Joseph Trogdlen, Tippecanoe's civil service master. "We feel more secure having them aboard."

As part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, coalition ships conduct maritime security operations in the region. Maritime security operations complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremist use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. Through training opportunities with regional partners, CTF 150 enhances existing cooperative relationships which aim to support regional countries' struggles against violent extremism.

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