MSC Reserve Sailors Take Command in Thrilling Ulchi Freedom Shield 24 Operation

BUSAN, South Korea — Military Sealift Command (MSC) reserve-component Sailors ventured to Pier 8, Busan, to partake in the Ulchi Freedom Shield 2024 exercise from Aug. 19-29.

Ulchi Freedom Shield 2024, a joint exercise between the U.S. and South Korea, also saw participation from United Nations Command Member State militaries and governmental agencies. The goal was to fortify defense readiness and enhance response capabilities through simulated and defensive drills.

The 11-member MSC team, from Reserve unit MSC Far East Det. 101 in St. Louis, participated in the complex training. They managed simulated U.S. government and commercially contracted ships, ensuring smooth operations under diverse scenarios like adverse weather and unscheduled maintenance.

Navy Reserve Capt. Jonathan B. Bass emphasized the challenge and importance of their role. “We’re that liaison between the ship and port operations,” Bass said. “Our familiarity with ships and ports allows us to recommend actions if ships need diversion.”

At Pier 8, the team supported the permanent MSC Office Korea (MSCO-K) staff by manning a 24/7 crisis action team. They collaborated with various military entities, ensuring effective coordination of shipping traffic.

“Naval Reserve augments from MSC Far East are critical to our success,” said Cmdr. Patrick J. Moore, commanding officer, MSCO-K. “Having new Sailors ensures continuous training depth. The team integrated seamlessly.”

Despite yearly participation, the exercise continually poses challenges due to rotating personnel. This year, the team included a variety of specialists from different parts of the U.S., enhancing the richness of the experience.

Lt. Cmdr. Steven D. Pascal, on his third consecutive year in Korea, focused on training newcomers. “This is such a unique exercise,” Pascal said. “Our preparation paid off, and the new members are performing well.”

Preparation at Navy Reserve Center included discussions about command structure and Korean culture, ensuring the team was well-equipped for the exercise.

MSC Far East supports the U.S. 7th Fleet, ensuring operational readiness for approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC continues to support military operations with a sizable workforce of Civil Service Mariners, contract mariners, and military personnel.