The frigate Gary, with its embarked helicopter and Coast Guard law enforcement detachments, had a big day Feb. 10, seizing more pulling in than 143 kilos of cocaine during a vessel bust in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Central America.
While on patrol, a bridge watch stander noticed a vessel maneuvering at high speed on the horizon, according to a release from the ship’s public affairs officer.
The ship alerted an already airborne SH-60B SeahHawk helicopter, from embarked Helicopter Squadron 49 Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 49, Detachment 4, which flew to the small boat and identified it as a suspected smuggler.
A team boarded the vessel, finding three people and hundreds of roughly 315 pounds of cocaine hidden in compartments on the boat.
It was the eighth successful drug interdiction for Gary and its her crew in recent months, supporting counter-trafficking with Operation Martillo in U.S. 4th Fleet.
“The crew continues to demonstrate their commitment and dedication to the mission here in 4th Fleet,” said Cmdr. Steven McDowell, Gary’s commanding officer. “A suspect vessel can be detected at anytime, day or night. ,” said Cmdr. Steven McDowell, Gary’s commanding officer. Team Gary is always ready.”
