"Operation Iraqi Freedom 2004/2005" by Travel2write

These are photos taken while aboard the USS Harpers Ferry LSD-49 Amphibious Assault ship while providing a 24-hour security presence on the Iraqi Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminals.

While assigned to the Northern Arabian Gulf, the mission was to protect the oil terminals that insurgents had previously tried to destroy.
The oil terminals are significant sources of revenue for the Iraqi people - revenue that is important to the rebuilding of Iraq.

Practice makes perfect, and the drills went morning, noon, and night!

8 hours a day these sailors stood next to there guns every day. Temps over 108 degrees in the summer, sand storms, flies that bite, rain, and freezing cold temps at night. They stood the watch!

Every American should be proud of these young Sailors.

Working closely with foreign interpreters to ensure fishing boats were aware of the threat to themselves.
Standing watches with foreign nationals give you a greater appreciation and understanding of what is really going on over here. If you arte opposed to the Liberation of the Iraqi people, then you have no clue of what people really want.

Cheerio, and quick demonstration from a young American female Sailor. Showing one of the British blokes how to operate her 25MM guns.

Without the friendships and mutual support from the Coalition forces, life would be alot more difficult!

Spacing between the ships remained tight to ensure nothing would get withing the security perimeter.

17 years in the Navy, and we never did this many flight Operations!
But it was always good when it would bring us mail!

The ship delivered meals to theh Oil platforms three times a day for six months. Somewhat suprised the engineers could keep them boats runnning.