The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) entered the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation (AOO), May 17 after approximately six months of maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operation in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

While deployed to U.S. 5th Fleet AOO, Milius played a crucial role in providing missile defense to the Carl Vinson and Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Groups, ensuring the success of multiple combat missions. Also, Milius played a central role in developing a comprehensive maritime picture while enhancing international cooperation between local Gulf countries by conducting numerous visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) missions.

"These destroyermen trained hard to be ready when we deployed last October and they have performed exceptionally well in theater," said Cmdr. Michael Rak, Milius' commanding officer. "They have faced each challenge with intensity and focus, and repeatedly accomplished each task with professionalism and proficiency."

While patrolling U.S. 7th Fleet AOO, Milius will conduct theater security operations while maintaining stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Milius is a multi-mission ship with anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare surface combatants capabilities, designed to operate independently or with an associated strike group. They began their independent deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans, Oct. 31, 2014.