Gunboats scheduled to train on river
Navy squadron to train on Rappahannock before going to Iraq
Date published: 3/23/2008
By COREY BYERS
Before a Norfolk-based Navy squadron heads to Iraq, it will be training for combat on the Rappahannock River.
Navy Lt. Michael Quaresimo, a training officer with Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base, said a 12-person team will conduct exercises on the river Tuesday through Thursday.
Quaresimo said training would occur within 21/2 miles east and west of the Port Royal bridge on U.S. 301, as well as at Fort A.P. Hill in Caroline County.
"The river is a great training opportunity for us," Quaresimo said. "It simulates the waterways and rivers that we'll operate on."
He said as many as four gunboats could be participating in the three-day exercise, but would use only blank ammunition.
"We're going to go out of our way to make sure everyone is safe," Quaresimo said of the training.
He encouraged people boating on the river not to approach the Navy gunboats, for safety reasons.
Corey Byers: 540/735-1976 Email: cbyers@freelancestar.com
Date published: 3/23/2008
Most recent reader comments:
Welcome!
(posted by
Tamerlane
, Mar. 23, 2008 7:56 am)  
If I see these guys (probably driving rigid-hull inflatables) I will welcome them with a big wave from afar. Go Navy!
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