On August 6, 2024, the Gold military crew (MILCREW) of the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4), along with embarked Marines (MARDET) and the ship’s Military Sealift Command Civilian Mariners (CIVMARs), arrived in Luanda, Angola, for a regularly scheduled port visit.
This visit marks the Hershel “Woody” Williams’ return to Luanda after its last visit in November 2022. During this port call, the ESB-class ship aims to strengthen the U.S.-Angolan partnership by collaborating on maritime security and domain awareness. Additionally, the MARDET will engage in training and cooperation with Angolan partners ashore.
The USS Hershel “Woody” Williams will host a reception for senior Angolan government and military leaders, fostering lasting relationships built on trust and cooperation. The crew will also participate in community relations events alongside local partners, immersing themselves in the rich culture, historic landmarks, and warm hospitality of this important regional partner.
Captain Michael Concannon, commanding officer of the Hershel “Woody” Williams Gold MILCREW, expressed honor in bringing the ship to Luanda, emphasizing its role in supporting maritime domain awareness. He stated, “Our crew is eager to collaborate with our Angolan partners, sharing knowledge and strengthening our mutual commitment to security and stability in the region.”
The Hershel “Woody” Williams will continue its deployment to the African continent, leveraging opportunities to work alongside regional Allies and partners in various exercises and operations. Its credible and capable naval presence contributes to maritime security and underscores the shared commitment to regional stability among allied nation naval forces.
As the first U.S. Navy ship assigned to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) area of responsibility, the Hershel “Woody” Williams is equipped for expeditionary missions, counter-piracy efforts, maritime security, and humanitarian and disaster relief operations. Its unique capabilities play a vital role in the critical access infrastructure that supports global missions. Operating with blue and gold crews, the ship remains continually deployed throughout AFRICOM.
For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) have cultivated strategic relationships with allies and partners, grounded in shared values to preserve security and stability.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF oversees U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. The U.S. Sixth Fleet, permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, conducts joint and naval operations across the spectrum.
The Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams completed routine maintenance in Croatia in February before taking part in Exercise Obangame Express 2024 off West Africa in May. The vessel left Rota, Spain, in mid-July, heading south down Africa’s West Coast.
In May, the Hershel “Woody” Williams encountered a minor incident off the coast of West Africa. Following an initial review, the U.S. Navy relieved Captain Lenard C. Mitchell of his command due to concerns related to the “soft grounding” of the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB-4) near the coast of Libreville, Gabon on May 9, 2024.