Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, the Blue Knights prepared for immediate departure. The 26th MEU set sail September 20. The MEU transited to a position off the coast of Pakistan to begin combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. HMM-365(REIN), in concert with HMM-163(REIN), launched 6 CH-53Es to secure Camp Rhino, nearly inland. After securing both Camp Rhino and Kandahar Airport deep in Afghanistan, the Blue Knights supported coalition forces conducting raids against the Taliban from December 2001 to February 2002. In March, the ARG transited to the Red Sea for a potential NEO in Yemen and to support Vice President Dick Cheney’s visit to the region.