La Vergne Sailor Supports Naval Replenishment Operations in the Indian Ocean

INDIAN OCEAN (WGNS) — Operations Specialist 2nd Class Htee Shee, a native of La Vergne, was recently photographed supporting replenishment-at-sea operations aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) while underway in the Indian Ocean on April 26.

Shee was seen using a sound-powered telephone on the ship’s fo’c’sle during a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14). The operation is part of routine logistical support efforts carried out by Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, which ensures deployed naval units and their regional allies and partners are supplied throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

USS Ralph Johnson is forward deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest destroyer squadron and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

This deployment highlights the ongoing efforts and contributions of sailors like Shee, who play a vital role in maintaining naval readiness and global maritime security.