Other US military assets moved into the region to support the operation, including the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams and the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The Makin Island ARG, commanded by Amphibious Squadron Three, is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and amphibious transport dock ships USS San Diego (LPD 22) and USS Somerset (LPD 25). The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, a naval integration force of nearly 5 000 Sailors and Marines, project expeditionary striking power in the maritime, littoral, and inland environment by conducting amphibious operations.

Hershel “Woody” Williams began its inaugural deployment in July and has been operating in the US Sixth Fleet area of responsibility as part of the US Africa command mission. The Hershel “Woody” Williams provides the US a forward deployed presence in Africa as well as increased naval power through Navy and Marine Corps integrated operations, including Marine aviation and support to amphibious operations.Īir support included the AC-130W Stinger II aircraft, designed for close air support and air interdiction. The aircraft is a highly modified C-130H featuring improved navigation, threat detection, countermeasures, and communication suites. All AC-130W aircraft are modified with a precision strike package to perform the gunship mission.

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