Bataan deploys from Norfolk for hurricane relief exercises

As two new tropical storms roll through the Atlantic, the amphibious assault ship Bataan left Norfolk Naval Station this morning to conduct hurricane relief exercises.

The ship, holding a crew of 1,100 sailors, will practice humanitarian efforts at sea with helicopters, landing crafts and medical staff for the ship’s 600-bed hospital.

Ship commander Capt. Rick Snyder said the mission is open-ended and will make the crew better prepared to respond to an emergency while underway. The ship has been on call for hurricane and other emergency duties, Snyder said during a pier side interview this morning.

Tropical Storm Hannah blew through the Bahamas today, while Tropical Storm Ike picked up strength behind it, according to the Associated Press.

Snyder also served as the executive officer aboard the Bataan during the ship’s response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The multipurpose vessel was the first Navy ship in the gulf after the storm, and its helicopter squadrons evacuated hundreds of people. The ship also provided food and supplies to rescue workers and civilians.

Snyder said the experience was “bittersweet,” adding that the Navy and Department of Defense are more prepared for responding quickly to a big storm.

Louis Hansen, (757) 446-2322, louis.hansen@pilotonline.com