Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group Returns to San Diego

US Navy,

SAN DIEGO: USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Denver (LPD 9), and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) returned home Nov. 19, after completing a seven and one-half month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.

While deployed, ships from the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (BHRESG) conducted Maritime Security Operations alongside coalition partners to promote stability in the Persian Gulf.

“The primary mission of BHRESG was to complete maritime operations with partner nations such as Australia, Singapore, Kuwait, and others,” said Capt. Rod Clark, commander Amphibious Squadron 7. “The deployment overall was a complete success.”

The BHRESG patrolled international waters in the North Persian Gulf for four months, including the area around Iraq's two oil platforms.

“Working with other navies gave us the opportunity to get to know each other, and allows for a fostering relationship among nations,” said Clark.

Clark praised Bonhomme Richard Sailors for their accomplishments during the deployment.

“Bravo Zulu, they did a fantastic job by completing the mission successfully,” said Clark. “Each and every one worked not only for the Navy, but for the country as well.”

Family and friends waited for Bonhomme Richard Sailors to disembark the ship after her return.

“I'm very excited to see my husband,” said the wife of Electrician's Mate 1st Class Ron Fall. “It's a sense of fulfillment to have him back again.”

The new fathers aboard had the privilege to be the first to disembark the ship, and meet with their families.

“It feels great to be with my family again, especially because I have a newborn,” said Operation Specialist 3rd Class Luis Herrera. “It's hard to describe my feelings; it's a wonderful experience.”

BHRESG was comprised of Amphibious Squadron 7, 13th Marine Expeditionary from Camp Pendleton, Calif., Bonhomme Richard, Denver, Rushmore, USS Milius (DDG 69), USS Chosin (CG 65), and USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93).