U.S. Marines Injured During Port Visit in Turkey: USS Wasp Investigation Underway

Two members of the U.S. 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit faced an attack during their recent visit to Izmir, Turkey. The Marines, part of the USS Wasp mission, were "on liberty" when the incident occurred. Immediate actions included taking them to a local hospital for precautionary evaluation, as confirmed by U.S. Navy Cmdr. Timothy Gorman, representing the U.S. Sixth Fleet. Prompt Investigation Initiated in Turkey and at USS Wasp Following the incident, the Marines were swiftly returned to their ship. Local Izmir police, along with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, have initiated a prompt investigation into the attack. Fortunately, no Marines have been detained, and those involved are fully cooperating with the investigators. The Navy has refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the incident, such as the activities of the Marines at the time or the identity of the suspects involved

USS Wasp and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit's Role 

The USS Wasp is currently part of the routine deployment to the eastern Mediterranean Sea for the marine expeditionary unit. Notably, the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit recently concluded a successful bilateral training exercise in the region, further highlighting their active engagement in operational readiness and international collaboration.

As the investigation unfolds, attention will be on the findings of both local authorities and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, aiming to shed light on the circumstances of the attack and ensure the safety and security of personnel during international engagements.