Nimitz Air Department Hits the Deck Running

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Patton, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

July 1, 2010 - SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Air Department Sailors conducted flight deck drills during a scheduled fast cruise June 28.

Sailors engaged in a variety of scenarios including setting up an aircraft barricade and fighting a simulated aircraft fire.

"The drills were a success," said Lt. Randy Stroman, Nimitz flight deck officer. "Considering we recently had a 40 percent turnover of our personnel, the evolutions went great."

One of the challenges the training team faced when dealing with an influx of new people was breaking any bad habits they may have brought with them, said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class (AW/SW) Christopher Greene, Air Department leading petty officer.

"What they know when they get here is basic stuff," said Greene. "What we're teaching them is advanced, so we have to correct anything that isn't right, because out here mistakes can get you or someone else hurt. With a few more drills and a little more experience under their belts, they'll be right where we need them to be. After that, we'll just keep pushing."

Nimitz is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 11. Nimitz returned home to San Diego March 26 after completing a successful eight-month Western Pacific deployment.