CG cutter Legare deploys to Africa

PORTSMOUTH, Va. - The Coast Guard cutter Legare deployed Wednesday to the west and central coasts of Africa.

During the three-month Africa Partnership Station (APS) mission, the Legare and her crew will visit and work with such countries as Morocco, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Cape Verde.

According to the Coast Guard, the Legare will support the Navy's 6th Fleet by serving as the primary APS platform, conducting activities and exchanges that bolster maritime safety and security.
During the deployment, it will be under the direction of Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa.

This is the second time Legare has deployed in support of the Navy's operations in Africa. In 2007 Legare had a 108-day deployment to the Gulf of Guinea region of West Africa where it conducted professional training, operations and community service with such countries as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana and the Togolese Republic.

The Legare, based in Portsmouth, is a 270-foot medium endurance cutter carrying a crew of 14 officers and 78 enlisted personnel.