User:R585779/sandbox

On 20 June 1991, Wasp departed homeport for her first six-month Mediterranean deployment. WASP carried the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) made up of a Command Element, Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines, Aviation combat element Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 162 and MEU Service Support Group-26. Since this was the maiden voyage of not only the Wasp but was also the first for this class of ships, the WASP participated in many high visibility diplomatic engagements along with a number of operations designed to test the ship and its crew. in Fiumicino, Italy on 4 July 1991 the WASP hosted a reception on behalf of the American Ambassador to Rome. This visit to Fiumicino was the first time since World War II a United States vessel dropped anchor in her harbor.
 * Maiden Voyage

In mid-July in Iskenderun, Turkey, WASP relieved Commander Amphibious Squadron Eight and then the 24th MEU (SOC) turned over its duties as Landing Force Sixth Fleet to the 26th MEU (SOC) as part of Operation Provide Comfort.

The Marines of 26 MEU (SOC) were returned to Morehead City, North Carolina on 18 December 1991. Wasp returned to her homeport al Norfolk Naval Base, 20 December 1991