Jacksonville, FL — Ships home ported at Naval Station Mayport are preparing for Hurricane Irma.
USS Shamal, USS The Sullivans, and USCG Tahoma are headed out to sea today.
USS Philippine Sea, USS Farragut, USS Milwaukee, USS Lassen, and USS Tornado are scheduled to depart on Thursday.
For now, USS Detroit will remain in port.
The decision to sortie is based on concerns for the safety of Sailors and preservation of the ships and associated equipment.
Navy vessels can remain safe at sea by maneuvering to avoid storms altogether. Additionally, having ships underway ensures they are ready to respond to any national tasking if required.
