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U.S. Navy Lieutenant Bryan Licona, a native of Miami, is serving aboard USS Carney, currently deployed to the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of operations.
Licona was aboard the ship Oct. 19, when the crew of Carney shot down multiple land attack cruise missiles and unmanned aerial drones launched by Houthi forces in Yemen while the ship was operating in the northern Red Sea. The missiles and drones were believed to be headed toward Israel when Carney intercepted them.
“I am the anti-terrorism tactical watch officer responsible for maintaining a surface and air-recognized maritime picture for our unit and those escorted while demonstrating a robust force protection posture,” Licona said. “The focus of my watch was deterrence, early threat recognition and implementing the use of force on known hostile targets, if required.”
The engagement lasted several hours and made news worldwide. According to Commander Jeremy Robertson, Carney’s commanding officer, crewmembers like Licona made all the difference.
“We train to go into harm’s way,” Cmdr. Robertson said. “Our ship’s motto is ‘Resolute, Committed, Successful,’ and on that day, the Carney crew lived up to those three words.
It’s an honor to be the commanding officer of every single sailor aboard this ship.”
Carney’s deployment helps ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.
“It means that all my loved ones back home will continue to be afforded the opportunity to keep seeking out the American dream,” Licona said. “Partaking in this mission has shown me what it means and what it takes to fight selflessly for the peace of our people.”
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers such as Carney are outfitted with the world’s most sophisticated weaponry systems. They further strengthen the U.S. Navy’s contribution to national security by deterring potential adversaries and protecting vital assets.
“I’m extremely proud of the Carney team,” Robertson added. “Every member of the crew performed exactly what we have been training to do and kept Carney engaged throughout the fight during this act. We could not have done this without all of the preparation and the support from our families back home. This is what we are meant to do, and on that day, the crew came together and executed the mission seamlessly.”
The U.S. Navy is engaged, postured, and ready with credible force to assure, deter, and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. Our primary goal is to contribute to a peaceful, stable, and conflict-free region through the combined naval power of our allies and partners.
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