July 16, 2006

Press Release

U.S. Navy cargo ship arrives in Estonia

The noncombatant Military Sealift Command cargo ship USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat arrived in Tallinn, Estonia, for a routine port visit Sunday, July 16.

Wheat frequently travels to commercial ports like Tallinn because she is forward deployed to Europe year-round as a member of the U.S. Navy's Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron One, or MPSRON One. The three ships of MPSRON One strategically stage U.S. military cargo at-sea in the European theater. In the event of a military or humanitarian crisis, the mission of this squadron is to deliver its cargo to forces ashore, ensuring a fast U.S. response to contingency situations.

The squadron also plays an important role supporting NATO military exercises in the region and bolstering U.S. ties with its allies in Europe.

"Port visits like this one to Estonia are vital in strengthening the partnership between our two nations," said Capt. Jim Driscoll, Commander, MPSRON One.

MPSRON One is commanded by a U.S. Navy captain and a small contingent of military personnel embarked aboard the squadron's flagship. The individual ships of the squadron, however, are operated by U.S. merchant mariners. There are 30 U.S. merchant mariners aboard Wheat.

"The crew of USNS Wheat is looking forward to spending time in Estonia," said the ship's civilian master Capt. Rick Jordan. "August is a special month for this ship and we cannot think of a better place to spend it than Tallinn."

August 11 marks the 39th anniversary of the death of the ship's namesake, Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat. Wheat died in combat on August 11, 1967 during the Vietnam War, throwing himself on an exploding mine to save the lives of his fellow Marines.

"He was a hero of the highest order," said Capt. Jordan. "We are privileged to serve on the vessel that bears his name."

The U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command has three Maritime Prepositioning Squadrons stationed around the globe. In addition to MPSRON One, MPSRON Two operates in the Indian Ocean. MPSRON Three operates in the Pacific Ocean.

For more information please contact the Public Affairs Office at U.S. Embassy Tallinn by e-mail tamsalup@state.gov.