Military aircraft staged at JAXPORT's Blount Island Marine Terminal.

JAXPORT facilitates the move of nearly 900 pieces of military cargo ahead of Veterans Day

By AJOT

November 9, 2023

The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) recently facilitated the movement of approximately 877 pieces of military equipment, including dozens of aircraft, through the Blount Island Marine Terminal. The U.S. Army’s South Carolina-based 841st Transportation Battalion shipped the equipment to support the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade’s deployment to the Middle East, part of a regular rotation of forces supporting Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria fighting terrorist groups.

The Blount Island Marine Terminal was the preferred strategic port for completing the loading mission because of its proximity to the Fort Liberty, N.C. (formerly Fort Bragg) military base, as well as its availability of staging areas and deepwater piers, according to the U.S. Army.

“We appreciate the support of the community as we execute dynamic missions like this,” said Lt. Col. Mathew Ferretti, commander, 841st Transportation Bn., “The support of JAXPORT and its skilled labor force play a critical role in our ability to deploy forces and equipment worldwide.”

“One of our most important roles at JAXPORT is serving as a U.S. Strategic Seaport,” said JAXPORT CEO Eric Green. “The strength of Jacksonville’s transportation network and experienced maritime service providers complement our capabilities to serve our nation’s military forces any time the need arises.”

JAXPORT is one of the nation’s 17 strategic seaports, on-call 24/7 to move U.S. Military cargo for national defense, foreign humanitarian aid and disaster relief, and the only port in Florida with this designation.