30 Sailors And Mariners Injured During U.S. Navy Training Exercise Off Florida

An incident involving two US Navy landing craft, air cushions (LCACs), during a training exercise off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida, injured 30 sailors and mariners, according to Navy officials.

The incident happened on the evening of May 1, 2024, and involved LCACs from the USS Wasp (LHD 1) and USS New York (LPD 21).

Five of the 30 injured sailors required medical evacuation to Savannah Memorial University Medical Center in Georgia.

Four of these sailors have been released from the hospital after receiving the treatment, while one remains in medical care and is being evaluated for further treatment.

Those who sustained minor injuries were treated aboard the USS Wasp and USS New York.

The incident occurred during a pre-development training exercise between the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

The Wasp, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is the lead ship for Ready Group, which has taken the 24th MEU from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, for scheduled training ahead of an overseas deployment.

While the specific details of the incident are unknown, United States Second Fleet officials have launched an investigation.

As the inquiry proceeds, more information is expected to be released.

This incident is the latest in an ongoing series of challenges involving the Navy’s amphibious fleet, which is crucial in supporting the deployment of Marine expeditionary troops.

Last month, the USS Boxer (LHD-4) returned to San Diego due to technical problems after deploying with the 15th MEU, headquartered in Camp Pendleton, California.

The Boxer had steering problems that required extensive modifications to its rudder.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, had previously hinted at possible delays in the Wasp’s deployment due to fleet-wide repair backlogs.

The incident highlights the Navy and Marine Corps operational challenges as they strive to sustain mission readiness and effectiveness.

Reference: US Navy

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