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USS Iwo Jima’s departure for disaster assistance delayed due to mechanical issue

Posted at 11:13 AM, Oct 06, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-07 09:22:13-04

Mayport, Fla. – Amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima’s departure from Naval Station Mayport has been delayed due to a mechanical issue with the ship’s propulsion system.

However, amphibious transport dock ship USS New York will still leave its homeports to support the gulf coast region ahead of Hurricane Nate.

The ships are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, medium and heavy lift air support, and bring diverse skills including assessment and security.

USS Iwo Jima and USS New York went to the Florida Keys in early September to provide help following Hurricane Irma.  Sailors and Marines worked along the Lower Keys, from Marathon to Key West, clearing debris from roadway, distributing food, water, tarps and blankets, and repairing generators and other critical infrastructure such as water-pumping stations.  The ships returned to their homeport in Mayport, Florida on September 19.