Ship Returns to Iraq to Aid in Rebuilding

In the first sign that local troops will play a major role in the nation-building effort in Iraq, the amphibious assault ship Boxer left here Wednesday for the Persian Gulf, carrying 200 Marines, 900 sailors, 16 heavy-lift helicopters, and tons of gear.

Military Sealift Command cargo ships will also deploy next week to support the approximately 20,000 Marines from the Camp Pendleton-based 1st Marine Expeditionary Force who are going to western Iraq to relieve the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division.

Many of the Marines took part in combat operations to topple the regime of Saddam Hussein. But the new mission is part of U.S. attempts to stabilize and rebuild the country’s economy and infrastructure before the Iraqis assume control later this year.

Most Marines are set to fly into the region next month in time to meet up with the equipment arriving by ship.

The goal, said the Boxer’s commanding officer, Capt. Tom Crowley, is to make sure the Marines “are ready to go on Day One.”

Next week, the amphibious assault ship Bataan will leave Norfolk, Va., on the same mission as the Boxer. About 5,000 Marines from Camp Lejeune, N.C., are deploying to Iraq.

All departures of Navy ships are occasioned by tears from family members, but the Boxer departure Wednesday was particularly emotional.

The ship returned to San Diego on July 26 after a seven-month mission to the Persian Gulf. In normal times, the ship would be in port for at least a year to 18 months.

“For him to leave again so soon, it’s so tough,” said Christie Green, tearfully hugging her husband, Petty Officer Heath Green, and their two small children. “I hate it but I wouldn’t have it any other way: I’m so proud of him.”

Some families have experienced numerous deployments and long separations.

Navy photographer Carole Rollman, making her final deployment as she finishes 20 years in the Navy, embraced her daughter, Lisa, 16, and promised to e-mail frequently.

“She won’t be here for me to talk about school and things,” said the tearful teenager, who will stay with relatives.

For some, the deployment was a new and jarring experience. “I know it’s going to be sad and tough being on my own, but I’ll adjust,” said Rebecca Gibbons, 21, whose husband, Seaman Allan Gibbons, is aboard the Boxer.

The couple were married a week ago in a civil ceremony. Plans for a church wedding and honeymoon are on hold until the Boxer returns in late April after offloading the Marines.