Boston Cutter Heads to Mediterranean

The Boston-based Coast Guard Cutter Spencer received orders recently to deploy overseas at the request of the Department of Defense (DOD) to support Operation Enduring Freedom. This deployment is part of the Coast Guard’s longstanding, annual commitment to DOD security cooperation initiatives and fosters continued interoperability between the U.S. Navy and the Coast Guard. The 270-foot medium endurance cutter with a crew of about 100 departs Thursday for the Mediterranean Sea. A seven-man Coast Guard law enforcement detachment team based in Yorktown, Va. will also deploy with Spencer. While patrolling the Mediterranean Sea, CGC Spencer will be engaged in Anti-terrorism, Force Protection and Maritime Interdiction Missions and as needed by the operational commander. "Spencer has a long and distinguished history of serving the nation," said Lt. Cmdr. Bill Kelly, Executive Officer. "This deployment is characteristic of the kinds of missions this ship was built for. We are a multi-mission, maritime and military force, and we’re ready to do whatever it is our country or the operational commander needs us to do." Spencer’s unique capabilities in maritime law enforcement, port security and search and rescue, plus its modern command, control and communications equipment make the cutter an important asset for this mission.