In a defining chapter of naval prowess, the USS Carney destroyer has returned home after a deployment characterized by the relentless interception of missiles and drones from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Carney’s crew faced a barrage of threats in the Red Sea, demonstrating exceptional readiness and courage under fire.
It all commenced without any forewarning for Commander Jeremy Robertson and his crew, who embarked from Naval Station Mayport, Florida, on September 27, unaware of the imminent challenges.
Mere weeks into their deployment, the Carney found itself amid an explosive scenario that would demand utmost precision and rapid response from the sailors.
On October 19, the Carney became the first confirmed U.S. warship to engage with a volley of Houthi missiles and drones—an hours-long confrontation that set the tone for the months to follow.
This marked the beginning of a historical engagement, catapulting the crew into a series of combat actions unseen since the era of World War II.
The encounters in the Red Sea were not just numerous but varied, testing every facet of the Carney’s capabilities and the sailors’ training. “From start to finish, it’s anywhere from nine to 20 seconds,” Cmdr. Robertson explained, emphasizing the speed and dynamic nature of the engagements. The ship’s tactical action officers and watch team worked in unison with the advanced systems onboard to counter these threats with precision.
The crew’s valor and proficiency were on full display when they not only intercepted Houthi offensives but also played a pivotal role in thwarting an Iranian missile and drone assault on Israel on April 14. “Their responsibility and actions and follow-up came very instinctual,” Cmdr. Robertson remarked with pride.
Over six grueling months, the Carney executed a record 51 engagements, each distinctly different, each a testament to their unyielding pursuit of excellence.
The Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, upon welcoming the ship during a brief stop in Norfolk, Virginia, acknowledged 14 sailors for their commendable accomplishments at sea.
This historic deployment also saw the Carney crew being awarded Combat Action Ribbons for a December engagement where they successfully shot down 14 Houthi air drones. The Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, upon the ship’s arrival in Mayport on Sunday, presented the Navy Unit Commendation to the ship for its outstanding heroism.
The Carney’s deployment was not solely a testament to military might; it was also one of humanity and assistance. The crew rescued the stricken oil tanker M/V Marlin Luanda after a missile strike, providing critical aid and dousing the flames with 600 gallons of fire-suppressing foam.
The commitment and gallantry displayed by the Carney’s crew have not only etched their deployment into the annals of naval history, but they have also validated the rigorous training and preparedness that the U.S. Navy instills in its sailors.
Their actions in the unforgiving waters of the Red Sea will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for future naval engagements and strategy.
In a display of solidarity and collective strength, the Carney’s sailors emerged from the crucible of combat a cohesive and unbreakable unit.
Their historic deployment against a formidable adversary in the Red Sea will forever be remembered, having decisively defended maritime freedom and the international order against relentless aggression.