Special Security Unit, 300 strong, coming to Seal Beach

Navy to Commission New Security Unit at Seal Beach on September 11, 2010

SEAL BEACH, Calif. – The Navy will commission the newest Maritime Expeditionary Squadron, MSRON-11, during a ceremony 1 p.m. on Sept. 11 at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach.

Capt. Gary R. Buchanan is the commanding officer of MSRON-11.  The squadron consists of approximately 300 officers, chief petty officers and enlisted Sailors.

MSRON-11 will be home ported at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach as a member of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

MSRON-11 is a specialized security unit that provides anti-terrorism and force protection from local harbors to foreign ports.  They operate in high-density, multi-threat environments utilizing advanced communications, boats, sensors and security measures to protect and defend seaward approaches, waterways and high-value assets.

MSRONs, formerly known as Mobile Security Squadrons (MSS), were established in the wake of terrorist attacks abroad, in particular the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole (DDG 67). MSRONs provide rapidly deployable point defense personnel and assets for force protection and anti-terrorism operations in support of fleet commanders.

Guest Speaker for the commissioning will be  Vice Commander of Naval Surface Forces, Rear Adm. Michael Shatynski.

The event is not open to the public.