Enterprise Conducts Fast Cruise Replenishment

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jacob D. Galito, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va (NNS) -- In preparation for sea trials, Sailors aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducted a mock underway replenishment (UNREP) April 12 during its fast cruise exercise.

The drill simulated refueling and receiving cargo while underway, and provided Sailors the opportunity to hone rate-specific skills and ultimately bring Enterprise another step closer to sea trials.

The world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier can stay out at sea almost indefinitely, limited mainly by its stock of supplies and fuel. Conducting an UNREP allows the ship to restock necessary supplies without having to interrupt the ship's mission for a significant length of time.

While UNREPs require the participation of nearly all hands, the Deck department and bridge watch team play especially vital roles integral roles. The officer of the deck, conning officer, helmsman and lee helmsman actually navigate the ship through the required maneuvers, while Deck department Sailors are tasked with completing the UNREP in a safe and timely manner.

"My role, overall, is to make sure that we are manned up, on station on time, with safety briefs complete and qualified personnel on station to refuel or take on cargo," said Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW/AW) Sequincy Culver, Deck department's leading chief petty officer.

Additionally, Culver ensures all Deck department Sailors are fully trained and ready for all other at-sea operations.

"We have a new crew so it's going to take a lot of alongside time to get these personnel qualified to do underway replenishments efficiently and safely," said Culver. "However, with the help of my seasoned Deck Sailors who've been on deployment, I have no doubt they will teach them everything they need to know to do this event effectively. Getting Sailors qualified for details like UNREP allows us to show the fleet that we are ready to join the fight."

The Engineering department also plays a critical role, ensuring all UNREP equipment has electrical power, hydraulic fluid and is in good working order.

An UNREP is an all-hands event, and one for which Enterprise continues to train for as the ship prepares to get underway for the first time in two years.

Enterprise is conducting a fast cruise exercise in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard in preparation for sea trials scheduled later this month.