 On October 22, 2001, the "Merchant Marine Act of 2001" was enacted, providing for the construction of 300 ships in a span of ten years.In 2003, 40 RRF ships were used in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.This RRF contribution was significant and included sealifting equipment and supplies into the theatre of combat operations, which included combat support equipment for the Army, Navy Combat Logistics Force, and USMC Aviation Support equipment.