Somali Pirates Fire on Navy Helicopter

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs.

WASHINGTON - Somali pirates aboard a hijacked ship fired at a U.S. Navy helicopter yesterday, Navy officials said.

According to the Navy, the helicopter from the USS Chancellorsville was not hit, and there were no injuries. The helicopter did not return fire.

The chopper received fire while on a surveillance flight over a Taiwanese-flagged vessel that pirates had captured in April. Footage taken from the SH-60B helicopter shows at least one pirate opening fire with what appears to be "a large-caliber weapon," officials said.

Somali pirates hijacked the Taiwanese-flagged Win Far vessel, April 6, and since have used it as a "mother ship" to conduct attacks, most notably on the U.S.-flagged Maersk-Alabama in April. The incident occurred in the Indian Ocean south of Garacad, Somalia, where the Win Far is anchored.

During the flight, the aircrew members observed pirate activity, but did not confirm they were fired on until their return to Chancellorsville and review of the infrared surveillance footage. The helicopter was about 3,000 yards from Win Far when it happened.

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Okay, I have some questions that I hope you Vets and Active Duty guys and gals can help me with. Number one, what kind of a weapon can do damage to our helicopers 3000 yards away? Number two, why did they not shoot back? Was it for the safety of the Tiewanese captives? Do you really think they're still alive? Why don't we just take that ship back?

There are many things I do not understand about this. Is it President Obama's policy not to do anything? Oh, wouldn't want to disturb any of his 'friends'. This sure is frustrating. Thanks.

Source: DVIDSHub.

May you walk with the LORD always, and when you cannot take another step, may He carry you the rest of the way until you can walk along side Him again.