USS Russell Makes Triumphant Return to San Diego Shores

The USS Russell and its crew, known as the Red Dragons, returned to port after an eight-month deployment to various regions, having left San Diego on February 10, 2024. Their mission was part of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), aimed at conducting global maritime security operations.

Cmdr. Mike McInerney, commanding officer of the USS Russell, praised his crew’s performance during this period. “Our Red Dragon team performed superbly on deployment. No matter the challenge, our Sailors rose to the occasion and represented our ship, Navy, and country with honor,” he stated. The crew maintained a high level of readiness throughout their deployment, demonstrating self-sufficiency and determination.

During their time at sea, the Russell played a crucial role in providing ballistic missile defense support and air and missile defense for the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. Their operations included executing 161 MH-60 Seahawk helicopter deck landings for refueling and personnel transfers.

The Red Dragons also engaged in community outreach during port visits, reinforcing goodwill with local communities. In Singapore, they volunteered at the Teen Challenge therapeutic center, and in Thailand, they assisted the Father Ray Foundation for underprivileged children. These initiatives allowed the Sailors to connect with local cultures and strengthen international relationships.

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Chilee Osuji shared his experience with the community work, saying, “It was really cool to be of service to the Father Ray Foundation in Thailand. It felt rewarding to provide services to those in need, meet the local people, and play soccer with the kids!”

Strengthening naval partnerships was a key component of their mission. Exercises with navies from Japan, South Korea, and Italy were vital in enhancing joint operational capabilities and reinforcing security collaborations.

The Red Dragons focused on maintaining high operational standards through extensive training exercises. They conducted over 150 drills, improving their tactical and technical response abilities across various warfare scenarios.

The TRCSG, comprising the USS Theodore Roosevelt, Carrier Strike Group 9 staff, Destroyer Squadron 23 ships including the USS Russell, and other vessels, continues to form a pivotal part of the U.S. 3rd Fleet. Their operations in the Indo-Pacific aim to uphold freedom of navigation and regional security through cooperation with allies and partners.

For more information on the USS Russell, visit Arizonanews.org.