About this Unit
USS SENTRY (MCM-3) is an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship commissioned by the United States Navy on September 2, 1989. Designed for the detection and neutralization of naval mines, SENTRY utilizes sophisticated sonar and remotely operated vehicles to clear sea lanes and protect fleet operations. Over its service, the ship has participated in various mine warfare exercises and real-world operations, including deployments to the Persian Gulf to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation. USS SENTRY continues to play a vital role in safeguarding U.S. and allied naval forces against the threat of underwater mines.
Historical Facts
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Commissioned in 1989: USS Sentry (MCM-3) was officially commissioned into the United States Navy on September 2, 1989, at Naval Base Charleston, South Carolina.
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Avenger-Class Mine Countermeasures Ship: Sentry is part of the Avenger-class, a group of minesweepers specifically designed to locate, classify, and neutralize moored and bottom mines in coastal waters.
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Wooden Hull Construction: The ship is primarily constructed with a wooden hull sheathed in fiberglass, reducing its magnetic signature and making it less likely to trigger magnetic mines.
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Named for Vigilance: The name "Sentry" represents vigilance and watchfulness, reflecting the ship’s mission to protect naval and commercial shipping from the threat of mines.
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Persian Gulf Deployments: USS Sentry has been deployed multiple times to the Persian Gulf as part of the U.S. Navy's ongoing efforts to secure critical maritime chokepoints from mine threats.
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Key Role in Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2003, Sentry was part of the coalition naval forces that cleared mines from Iraqi waters to open up the port of Umm Qasr for humanitarian aid.
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Advanced Minehunting Technology: The ship is equipped with sophisticated mine countermeasure systems including AN/SQQ-32 minehunting sonar and remotely operated vehicles for mine disposal.
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Homeport in Bahrain: As of recent years, USS Sentry's forward-deployed homeport has been Naval Support Activity Bahrain, enhancing U.S. mine countermeasure capabilities in the Fifth Fleet area of operations.
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Notable Humanitarian Participation: The crew and ship have participated in joint exercises and international mine countermeasure operations, fostering international partnerships and maritime security.
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Unique Engineering Crew: The Sentry’s engineering team is trained to perform repairs on the ship’s unique non-magnetic engines and systems, a skill set that distinguishes MCM crews from other Navy engineering teams.
