MSS 3 Provides Force Protection for Tippecanoe

Sailors from Mobile Security Squadron Three (MSS 3) are providing force protection for the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) while the ship conducts operations in the Gulf of Aden.

Tippecanoe is a civilian operated vessel for the Military Sealift Command (MSC), and MSS 3 has been tasked with safeguarding the ship’s crew and cargo while it conducts replenishment at sea operations off the Somalia coast.

“We’re embarked to provide maritime security and deter piracy attempts against
Tippecanoe while the ship conducts its operations,” said Chief Master-at-Arms Eric D. Hancock, Mission Commander aboard Tippecanoe. “Keeping 5th Fleet ships supplied allows them to remain at sea and provide invaluable support for Coalition forces operating off the east coast of Somali and in the Gulf of Aden.”

Fleet replenishment oilers, like Tippecanoe deliver passengers, mail, cargo, ammunition, fuel and food throughout the 5th Fleet area of operations helping to ensure Sailors aboard ships have what they need to complete their mission.

“I'm glad they're here,” said Joseph Trogdlen, the ship's master for the Tippecanoe. “We feel more secure having them aboard.”

MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seeks to disrupt violent extremist use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. Through training opportunities with regional partners, CTF 150 enhances existing cooperative relationships which aim to support regional countries’ struggles against violent extremism.