US Navy vessels in Subic for PHIBLEX 14

Two U.S. Navy vessels carrying around 4,000 American sailors and Marines arrived at this free port on Monday, September 16, to join an upcoming military exercise between the Philippines and the United States.

The U.S. Navy Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD-4) docked at the Alava Pier here alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land, which has been here two weeks ago for a routine port call.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD-18) docked at the Rivera Pier nearby.

The USS Boxer and USS New Orleans, both of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (BOXARG), left their home port at San Diego, California, last August 23.

The two vessels are part of the Philippines–US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 14), which will officially kick off on Wednesday, September 18.

The USS Boxer and USS New Orleans will stay here until Friday, September 20, while their personnel undertake some community outreach activities in Olongapo City and Zambales.

Subic Bay, which has a sheltered deep harbor and facilities for re-supply and recreation, is a frequent host to US Navy vessels. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)
 
PHOTO:
The US Navy’s amphibious landing ship USS Boxer (left) docks alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land at the Alava Pier after arriving in the Subic Bay Freeport Monday afternoon. It will take part in the Philippines–US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 14), scheduled on September 18 to October 11, 2013.