41.   The USS Nassau, the helicopter assault ship, was the main staging base for the evacuation from Tirana.

42.   Nine US ships are patrolling, including an amphibious assault ship.

43.   Navy officials said the USS Bonhomme Richard, another amphibious assault ship, was headed for the region and was expected to replace the Peleliu.

44.   The force is led by the San Diego-based amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu, which has been stationed off the east African coast since March.

45.   The marines will be deployed from the HMS Fearless assault ship which is currently stationed in the Indian Ocean, she said.