Arabian Gulf Maritime mishap

[USMC5831]

Arabian Gulf Maritime Mishap
Story Number: NNS040723-06
Release Date: 7/23/2004 8:45:00 AM



From Coalition Forces Maritime Component Commander/Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

ABOARD USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (NNS) -- During night flight operations in international waters, USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) and an unidentified dhow collided in the Arabian Gulf, at approximately 10:20 p.m., July 22.

All indications are that the dhow sank as a result of this accident. John F. Kennedy and HMS Somerset immediately launched helicopters and small boats to search for any crewmembers of the dhow. U.S. Navy P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft were launched to assist in the search and rescue operation. Although a debris field has been located, no survivors or remains have been found. Rescue operations are continuing.

All airborne aircraft from Kennedy's air wing were recovered, and all crewmembers have been accounted for. No Kennedy personnel were injured.

The U.S. Navy is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this accident. Further details will be made available as appropriate.

Kennedy is deployed to the U.S Central Command's area of responsibility under the command of the U.S. 5th Fleet.

For related news, visit the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cusnc.