PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii - United States Ship (USS) Michael Murphy arrived today alongside Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, with family members and civilian contractors transferred off Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Protecteur, five days after a fire onboard Protecteur.

A team of RCN personnel are in Pearl Harbor providing technical support to HMCS Protecteur's crew members and assisting family members who are arrived on USS Michael Murphy.

HMCS Protecteur remains under tow by USNS Sioux and accompanied by USS Chosin. As of 9 a.m. PST, Mar.4, the ships were approximately 150 nautical miles northeast of Pearl Harbor. Fair weather conditions are expected to continue for the remainder of the transit of the three ships.

HMCS Protecteur has limited electrical power and onboard systems continue to be reactivated in a controlled manner. The ship's company is well and focused on recovery and towing operations. Ongoing medical and support services are being provided as required to everyone onboard.

Once in Hawaii, an extensive and detailed damage assessment of the ship will begin. An investigation into the cause of the fire is being initiated. Work will begin to prepare HMCS Protecteur for her return to Esquimalt.

Family members in Canada continue to receive briefings by senior staff through the Military Family Resource Centre.