USNS Patuxent Makes Festive Journey Home Just in Time for Christmas

The U.S. Navy’s replenishment oiler, Patuxent, recently returned to Norfolk, Virginia, following an extensive mission across the globe. Chief Mate Chris Parke spoke highly of the crew’s performance, applauding their exceptional service throughout challenging maritime operations. Their arrival coincides with the holiday season, allowing many crew members to reunite with their families just in time for Christmas.

Patuxent’s contribution over the past 75 years highlights the critical support fleet replenishment oilers provide to the Navy’s global logistics system. Their role enables U.S. Navy combatant ships to remain deployed for extended periods, safeguarding national interests worldwide. The oiler’s recent operational achievements underline its capability and commitment.

During its operations, Patuxent covered 54,827 nautical miles, effectively completing two global circumnavigations. With only 77 civil service mariners, the vessel supported various high-profile international operations. It delivered multi-mission combat logistic support, crucially providing 12.9 million gallons of fuel and facilitating 86 successful underway replenishments to 54 U.S. Navy and 32 Allied Surface Combatant ships.

Amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Patuxent played a vital humanitarian role. The ship ensured the secure shipment and delivery of 120 pallets of bottled water. This effort was essential to supporting the well-being of individuals in Gaza, underlining the ship’s versatility and importance in emergency situations.

Patuxent also strengthened international relationships through 25 diplomatic port visits. Locations included Augusta Bay, Sicily; Malaga and Rota, Spain; Souda Bay, Crete; and Taranto, Italy. These visits are significant for fostering naval diplomacy, symbolizing cooperative engagement between nations.

As the fifteenth vessel of the Henry J. Kaiser’s Combat Logistic Force ships, Patuxent showcases the essential naval capability of underway replenishment. This allows the resupply of fuel, food, and essentials without the need to dock, which is critical when ships cannot access local ports due to security concerns. These oilers are built for efficiency, achieving speeds of 20 knots and equipped with robust fueling stations to provide capabilities at sea.

The Combat Logistic Force is a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s extended maritime presence. With a fleet of 33 ships, including replenishment oilers, ordnance and cargo carriers, and fast support ships, they allow Navy warships to exert sustained influence and power.

The Military Sealift Command primarily operates these non-combatant, civilian-crewed ships. They engage in resupplying operations, manage specialized missions, and maintain strategic positions of combat cargo globally, playing a crucial role in supporting U.S. and coalition forces overseas.

For more news on Military Sealift Command, visit Arizonanews.org.