CNRH Adds New Social Media Outlet

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Commander Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH) announced the addition of its latest social media outlet, YouTube, July 20.

CNRH has added YouTube alongside its Facebook, Twitter and Flickr accounts and the command history blog.

CNRH is one of only six commands recognized by the U.S. Navy with active accounts for all five social media applications.

Family and friends of USS O'Kane (DDG 77) Sailors were able to comment on the photos of the O'Kane's recent deployment on the CNRH Facebook page.

"I have a really good friend whose husband is going to be on this ship. May they stay safe and their families stay strong while they are gone," one online post read.

CNRH's Facebook page and Twitter applications allow Sailors and family members to access different topics ranging from community events to emergency information.

"Facebook is a great way to keep in touch with things that are happening with Navy Region Hawaii," said Lt. j.g. Casey Twobears. "I believe social media can be invaluable especially in the event of an emergency. It really helps me stay up to date with immediate information."

CNRH used its social media outlets to communicate information regarding a tsunami warning in March 2009.

"We were able to communicate early, correct misinformation quickly and succeeded in ways we had not fully anticipated, thanks to the use of social media," said Rear Adm. Dixon R. Smith, CNRH and commander, Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific.

Commands under CNRH have also implemented social media, with Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Pacific Missile Range Facility creating Facebook pages.