Today, the USNS Comfort has embarked on a path straight for Puerto Rico to provide aid to the U.S. territory recently devastated by Hurricane Maria, the most powerful storm to land a direct hit on the island in nearly a century.
The damage caused by Hurricane Maria left the island without electricity while also subjecting residents to flash floods and mudslides.
As for the USNS Comfort, the 894′ long ship has a maximum speed of approximately 20 miles per hour (17.5 knots) and is expected to reach Puerto Rico by Tuesday.
Also on board, the floating hospital boasts a dental suite, one CAT scan unit, four X-ray machines, a physical therapy center and even a pharmacy.
The ship was originally named SS Rose City before being converted into a hospital ship and joining the Navy fleet.
Per the Geneva Conventions, the USNS Comfort does not carry any offensive weapons, including the crew. »