25.06.2010
Text:
Photo:
Marshal Shaposhnikov at Guam Island, 2006. Edward N. Vasquez
The unit headed by Capt 1 rank Ildar Akhmerov left Vladivostok on Feb 24 and had been attending international anti-piracy mission since March 27 till June 5. Large ASW ship
Marshal Shaposhnikov had two deck-based helicopters on board; they had been providing permanent aerial reconnaissance. Besides, on board each vessel were PF marine units which had to counter pirates many times, including successful release operation of captured tanker
Moscow University.
As reported by
RIA Novosti citing the PF Commander, the unit has worthily accomplished the mission. "Brilliant operation conducted by Pacific mariners while releasing captured tanker
Moscow University was highly appraised not only by Russian defense ministry but numerous foreign military commands", said Admiral K. Sidenko at the meeting ceremony held at the Golden Horn Harbor. All participants of the tanker release operation were distinguished by state awards which will be triumphantly handed out in the nearest time.
During anti-piracy mission the unit had escorted 11 convoys with over 100 merchant ships from various countries, reported
RIA Novosti citing Capt 1 rank Roman Martov, the head of PF Information and Public Relations Service.
According to Martov, directors of numerous foreign companies sent dozens of grateful letters and telegrams to PF command.
Most of shipmasters were seeking to join convoys escorted by Russian mariners as the length of their route was much longer than the ordinary ones. That provided extra security guarantees for crews of civil ships, Martov said.
