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Written by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson, Deployable Operations Group.
Port Security Unit 307, a Clearwater, Fla., based Reserve unit, returned home today from a six-month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.
During the deployment, PSU 307 provided seaward security at strategic port locations around the Persian Gulf ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region.
“I’m extremely proud of everything we accomplished leading up to and during the deployment,” said Cmdr. James Wallace, the unit’s commanding officer. “Our members conducted themselves with poise and professionalism, and we’re happy to be home safely with our family and friends.”
PSU 307 operated and conducted joint training with the Navy’s Combined Task Group 56.5, under the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command. CTG 56.5 is charged with providing harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches and waterways within U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility.
Prior to deployment, PSU 307 members conducted waterside security and maritime force protection training including specialized combat, weapons and boat skills qualifications.
“We mobilized months in advance of the deployment to conduct training and medical, dental and personnel screening,” Wallace said. “Part of that screening includes ensuring the families are connected into the support system and are aware of all the resources available to them while the service member is overseas.”
PSU 307 families are benefiting from the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, a DOD-wide effort to help National Guard and Reserve members and their families locate resources before, during and after deployments. Yellow Ribbon events provide access to information on health care, education and training opportunities, financial and legal benefits.
Established in May 1999 as a Coast Guard Reserve unit, PSU 307 provides security and protects personnel and facilities from terrorism, sabotage, espionage, subversion and attack. The unit has a proud operational heritage, including recent security and humanitarian support to Haiti after the devastating island earthquake, January 2010; and, in support of Operations’ Enduring Freedom, Desert Storm, Noble Eagle and Uphold Democracy.