USS Wasp Sets Sail from Rota, Heading Homeward

A recent visit by the USS Wasp to Rota marks a critical stopover in the fleet’s mission to uphold stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategic replenishment comes as part of broader efforts to support U.S. and allied interests in deterring regional aggression.

Captain Paul O’Brien, the executive officer of the Wasp, highlighted the crew’s vigilance during their deployment. “Our Sailors and Marines maintained heightened awareness while serving as the nation’s crisis response force,” O’Brien stated. He added that the brief pause allowed the crew to celebrate their achievements over the past months before heading home.

The USS Wasp is expected to return to Naval Station Norfolk in early December 2024. Since April, it has been operational across the Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, and Mediterranean as the flagship of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable).

The 24th MEU (SOC) offers rapid response capabilities, showcasing strategic speed and agility. This Marine Air-Ground Task Force is designed to prepare and protect U.S. national interests globally, responding swiftly to a range of military conflicts.