Picture of the Day: Fleet Tug

Ironic how when it is Russia deploying a fleet tug the comments fill with sarcasm, then we see this picture and it is a reminder how useful they are in the wilds of the maritime domain.

This is what it looks like when merchant mariners and sailors from USS Mason (DDG 87) team up and do what our fleet does best, rendering assistance to those in need.

SOMALIA (Feb. 6, 2009) - The U.S. Navy fleet ocean tug USNS Catawba (T-ATF 168) provides fuel and fresh water to Motor Vessel Faina following its release by Somali pirates Feb. 5, after holding it for more than four months. The U.S. Navy has remained within visual range of the ship and maintained a 24-hour, 7-days a week presence since it was captured. The Belize-flagged cargo ship is owned and operated by Kaalbye Shipping Ukraine and is carrying a cargo of Ukrainian T-72 tanks and related equipment. The ship was attacked on Sept. 25 and forced to proceed to anchorage off the Somali Coast. U.S. 5th Fleet conducts maritime security operations to promote stability and regional economic prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael R. McCormick/Released)