This particular Utahn likes to keep things local.
Marine Lance Cpl. Clifford Oram, a Layton native, just finished serving a six-month naval deployment, including a peace-keeping mission off the coast of Somalia aboard the amphibious transport ship USS Ogden, named after the city of Ogden.The USS Ogden docked at San Diego Tuesday after traveling more than 40,000 in support of last month's Operation United Shield - the withdrawal of United Nation peacekeeping troops from Somalia.
In addition, the ship was part of the multinational forces enforcing U.N. economic sanctions against Iraq by providing air and surface surveillance throughout the Middle East region.
"My company's job is to preserve order if called upon during crisis situations," Oram said. "My favorite part of the deployment was to be able to participate in a real-world situation utilizing all the skills I have learned while in the Marine Corps. I like pulling into port and being able to see how the rest of the world spends their time."
While stationed in the region, Oram and his fellow soldiers dedicated some time to the town of Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates. The sailors and Marines helped paint the outdoor theater of an East Indian social center as well as distribute more than 600 social studies books to the students of Al Ain Little Flower school.
"I am extremely proud of each and every sailor and Marine on board USS Ogden, and it was my honor to serve with them during Operation United Shield," said Navy Capt. Dale Rauch, the ship's commanding officer.