SAN DIEGO (NNS) — January 25, 2016 — The 10 U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Coastal Riverine Squadron 3 who were briefly detained by Iran Jan 12-13, returned to their homeport in San Diego last night.
All of the Sailors are in good health and each will complete the final phase of reintegration. During this phase, which can last several days, Sailors reunite with their families, continue debriefings, and receive any ongoing medical care and support as necessary.
“Our Sailors are being reintegrated with dignity and professionalism,” said Rear Adm. Frank Morneau, Commander Navy Expeditionary Combat Command. “My top priority is the health, welfare and well-being of our Shipmates as they return to duty.”
The three-phased reintegration process began in theater immediately following their release, Jan. 13. The focus of Phase I of the reintegration process was to ensure the immediate health and safety of the Sailors. During the second phase of the reintegration process, individuals completed a medical exam and critical decompression, which included mental and physical coping strategies that will enable them to return to duty. The final and third phase commenced when the Sailors reunited with families, while ongoing medical evaluations and various levels of support are provided.
A Navy command investigation, initiated Jan. 14, is ongoing.