Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Richard-E-Byrd

On July 28, 2014, the USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4), a Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship, successfully executed a daring rescue operation in the Gulf of Oman, saving nine crew members from the Yemeni-flagged cargo vessel 'Asaed.' The vessel had succumbed to mechanical failure, losing power and taking on water, leaving its crew in a precarious situation. U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs reported that the Asaed's crew sought assistance, prompting the USNS Richard E. Byrd to respond as the first ship on the scene. In a remarkable display of professionalism and maritime solidarity, the stranded Yemeni sailors evacuated their endangered ship via lifeboat and navigated towards the awaiting military vessel, where they were safely recovered by the Byrd's crew. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or casualties during the incident. The rescued sailors are currently undergoing medical evaluations by the USNS Richard E. Byrd’s medical team. The U.S. Navy is also coordinating their safe transfer to shore. At the time of the operation, the USNS Richard E. Byrd was on a routine deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area, focusing on essential maritime security operations and fostering regional security cooperation efforts. For further details and visual coverage, you can check the report at: http://www.stripes.com/news/us-navy-rescues-mariners-in-gulf-of-oman-1.295725#

In a remarkable naval milestone, the USNS Richard E. Byrd, a dry cargo and ammunition ship operated by the Military Sealift Command, departed from Cam Ranh Bay in southern Vietnam today. This departure marks the conclusion of a significant visit, being the first by a U.S. Navy vessel to this port in nearly four decades, as reported by MarineLink. The USNS Byrd underwent a week-long stay at Cam Ranh Shipyard where it received essential maintenance services. Tasks included underwater hull cleaning, propeller polishing, shipboard piping repairs, and an overhaul of the saltwater cooling system crucial for both engine function and air conditioning. Notably, Cam Ranh Bay, located approximately 180 miles north of Ho Chi Minh City (previously known as Saigon), served as a major U.S. military facility during the Vietnam War between 1965 and 1973. This visit signifies a new chapter in maritime relations between the United States and Vietnam.