The USS Oak Hill, a Harpers Ferry-class amphibious landing dock ship, docked in Limassol, Cyprus, marking its second scheduled port visit to the city in recent months, according to a press release from the U.S. Navy.
During this visit, Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC) will re-embark on Oak Hill after two weeks of joint sustainment training with Cypriot forces.
“Our visit to Cyprus enables us to re-embark the 24th MEU after interoperability training with the Cypriots, as we continue to build and strengthen our relationships,” said Cmdr. Jason Nowell, Oak Hill’s commanding officer. He noted the crew’s enthusiasm, adding, “The Sailors and Marines onboard are excited to return to Limassol.”
The Oak Hill’s return to Limassol also provides its crew an opportunity to explore the historic city, following a previous 10-day port visit in September, which included scheduled maintenance for the vessel.
Currently, Oak Hill is operating as part of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 24th MEU (SOC), conducting missions under U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa. The Wasp ARG-24th MEU (SOC) is engaged in operations aimed at supporting U.S. and allied interests in the eastern Mediterranean, a region where their presence contributes to regional stability and deterrence.
The Wasp ARG-24th MEU consists of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), USS Oak Hill, and the 24th MEU (SOC).
The 24th MEU (SOC) itself operates as a Marine Air-Ground Task Force, including a command element, an Aviation Combat Element from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced), a Ground Combat Element from Battalion Landing Team 1/8, and a Logistics Combat Element from Combat Logistics Battalion 24.
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big ships due for the chop by 2026
I think all the Harpers will have their lifetime extended. Especially as they strive to achieve 21 LPD.
To be replaced by the Flight II San Antonio class LPDs.