By Alvin Plexico, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Cole Smith, a native of Chandler, Arizona, serves aboard USS Carney (DDG 64), currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
Smith serves as a boatswain’s mate and was aboard the ship Oct. 19, when the crew of Carney shot down multiple land attack cruise missiles and unmanned aerial drones launched by Houthi forces in Yemen while the ship was operating in the northern Red Sea. The missiles and drones were believed headed toward Israel when Carney intercepted them.
“I was on watch maintaining surveillance to aid in anti-missile operations,” said Smith.
The engagement lasted several hours and made news worldwide. According to Cmdr. Jeremy Robertson, Carney’s commanding officer, crewmembers like Smith made all the difference.
“We train to go into harm’s way,” Robertson said. “Our ship’s motto is ‘Resolute, Committed, Successful’ and on that day, the Carney crew lived up to those three words. It’s an honor to be the Commanding Officer of every single Sailor aboard this ship.”
Carney’s deployment helps ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.
“We saved lives of innocent people and further supported our allies,” said Smith.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers such as Carney are outfitted with the world’s most sophisticated weaponry systems. They further strengthen the U.S. Navy’s contribution to national security by deterring potential adversaries and protecting vital assets.
The U.S. Navy is engaged, postured, and ready with credible force to assure, deter, and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. Our primary goal is to contribute to a peaceful, stable, and conflict-free region through the combined naval power of our allies and partners.