JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. deployed three ships to the Eastern Mediterranean, adding to the carrier strike group already stationed in the area, as hostility grows against Israel. One of the ships deployed left from Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville.
The guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) left Mayport Friday, marking the third ship to leave from Mayport since the start of the conflict in Israel, according to Commander, Navy Region Southeast (CNRSE).
In a statement Saturday, the U.S. Department of Defense, announced the deployment of the USS Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG), including the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), USS Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Mason. The Eisenhower CSG also includes a Carrier Air Wing 3, along with nine aircraft squadrons and headquarter staff.
While overseas, the group will engage with allies and partners to support naval diplomacy and "build comprehensive U.S. and allied maritime power," according to CNRSE.
"Mason is more than ready to answer the call for any tasking we may receive," said Commander Justin B. Smith, Mason’s commanding officer.
Over the last year, Mason completed a list of certifications to strengthen its naval superiority.
"Every certification has been building up for this very moment,” said Command Master Chief Carlos Slade.
Earlier this week, the U.S. sent the USS Gerald R.Ford Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Eastern Mediterranean, including the USS Normandy, USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt.
Of those ships, the two destroyers, USS Carney and USS Thomas Hunder, deployed from Mayport.
The DOD said the increase of U.S. presence in the Eastern Mediterranean area shows "the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security.
First Coast News spoke with military members at the U.S. Navy Commissary in Jacksonville about what it means to have three local ships heading into a war zone.
"Being in the military, it's kind of like, we have to. We don't always like it, but it's a part of the deal," said Will Parsons, with the U.S. Navy Reserves. "The best thing we hope for is everyone comes back," said Parsons.