Z-1-151-1 Riv-Ron 15

• Riverine Squadron 15 (RIVRON 15): Designated as part of the U.S. Navy's riverine force, RIVRON 15—often referred to in shorthand as Z-1-151-1 in reporting—was established to provide security and patrol operations in riverine and coastal environments. • Modern Brown-Water Navy: RIVRON 15 continues the legacy of the Vietnam-era "brown-water navy," operating small, highly maneuverable craft in inland waterways and littoral zones. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: RIVRON 15 played a key role in Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting maritime security operations on the Shatt al-Arab and other vital waterways in Iraq. • First Deployment: The unit’s first deployment to Iraq began in 2007, where it supported U.S. Army and Marine operations in the volatile Anbar Province. • Joint Operations: RIVRON 15 frequently operated jointly with Marine and Army units, providing insertion, extraction, and fire support for ground forces in riverine environments. • Riverine Command Boats (RCB): The unit utilized advanced Riverine Command Boats, equipped with state-of-the-art communications and weaponry, to conduct interdiction and patrol missions. • Combat Action Ribbon: Many sailors in RIVRON 15 earned the Combat Action Ribbon for their direct engagement with enemy forces during riverine operations. • Training: RIVRON 15 sailors underwent specialized training in small boat handling, navigation, and close-quarters combat to prepare for the unique challenges of riverine warfare. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat roles, RIVRON 15 participated in humanitarian and civil affairs missions, helping to build infrastructure and foster goodwill with local populations. • Deactivation: As part of a Navy realignment, RIVRON 15 was deactivated in 2012, but its contributions to modern riverine warfare continue to influence U.S. Navy doctrine and training.