After careful deballasting, USNS Sgt Metaj Kocak was successfully refloated today at approximately 1730 local time, according to an emailed statement from the U.S. Military Sealift Command.
The vessel was lightered yesterday by a fuel tanker and took on ballast in order to remain secure until conditions were determined safe to refloat the vessel.
Incredibly, the vessel sailed under her own power to Naval Fleet Activity Okinawa’s White Beach and arrived pierside at 1942L JST.
Kocak is now protected by boom as an environmental precautionary measure and salvage divers are expected to inspect the hull tomorrow, according to MSC.