USS Laboon Triumphantly Returns Home from Deployment

The USS Laboon has returned from a challenging 279-day deployment. The crew operated in volatile regions including the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Rear Adm. Kavon Hakimzadeh of Carrier Strike Group 2 greeted the ship’s return. “We are honored to welcome back the men and women of USS Laboon,” said Hakimzadeh. “Their proficiency and resolve have been outstanding.”

During its deployment, Laboon took part in Operation Prosperity Guardian. This multinational effort aimed to protect international shipping lanes in critical maritime areas. The crew successfully countered multiple attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists.

Cmdr. Eric Blomberg, Laboon’s commanding officer, praised his team’s performance. “This team has shown just how capable and professional our warfighters are,” he stated.

Chief Petty Officer Rickey Gisclair emphasized the importance of training. “This deployment highlighted why we train so hard,” said Gisclair. “Every Sailor stepped up in a challenging environment.”

Laboon’s operations were inspired by its namesake, John Francis Laboon, a decorated Naval officer and chaplain. The crew continued his legacy by rescuing three mariners stranded in the Gulf of Aden for ten days.

U.S. 5th Fleet’s operational area covers 2.5 million square miles, including key waterways. NAVEUR-NAVAF, based in Naples, Italy, oversees naval forces in Europe and Africa.

U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018, focuses on the Atlantic and Arctic. It ensures access and deters aggression in these regions.

U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC) manages over 125 ships and 1,000 aircraft. It supports global U.S. interests and joint missions as Commander, Naval Forces Northern Command and Strategic Command.

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