Mission:
The mission of the PIONEER (MCM 9) is to clear the ocean bottom and
water volume of anti-ship mines. A combination of stealth, endurance,
and the latest mine countermeasures technology allows the PIONEER to
conduct sustained, full-spectrum, mine countermeasures operations in
the world’s critical maritime regions. Specific advantages
and
capabilities include the ship’s low magnetic signature diesel
engines and wooden hull, which reduce the ship’s
vulnerability to
magnetic-influence mines; a precise navigation system, which allows the
ship to find, plot, and report suspected mines with great accuracy; a
high frequency sonar, used to locate and classify mines; three
minesweeping systems (mechanical, acoustic, magnetic), used to destroy
mines; two rigid hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs), used to carry divers
and mark suspected mines; and a remotely controlled mine neutralization
system used to identify suspected mines and destroy them with explosive
charges. A product of intense research and unique construction, the
PIONEER plays a vital role in America’s enduring objective to
maintain uninterrupted access to the world’s strategic
waterways. |
Ship's Crest:
 Seal:The
coat of arms as blazoned in full color on a white ellipse pointed at
the top and bottom edges. The seal is enclosed by a white designation
band with black edges. On the left-hand side is incscribed "USS
PIONEER" in black letters. On the right-hand side is inscribed "MCM 9"
in black letters, surrounded by two silver stars on each side.
The Shield: Blue represents
the sea
and
dedication to duty. The sinister, or left-handed, gauntlet grasping a
cracked mine symbolizes PIONEER's primary mission of destroying sea
mines.
The Crest:
The sun rays allude to
excellence,
life, and safety. The heraldic fountain signifies peaceful seas.
Supporters: The lightning bolts, crossed to emphasize strength,
underscore PIONEER's electronic technology. Red denotes courage, zeal,
and action.
Motto:
"Pioneer for Freedom"
|
