Security Team Critical Aboard Enterprise

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tiger Martinez, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) performed an at-sea gun shoot to train new members of its security force July 20 as part of the crew's training leading up to the ship's 21st deployment.

Enterprise is equipped with stationary and reaction security forces on watch 24/7 while in port or at sea. The stationary security force are positioned around the ship and on the pier as a deterrent.

"This training is extremely important, because it gives our security force the experience of safely handling firearms," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class (SW/AW) Eugene A. McBride, firearms instructor for Weapons department. "These Sailors have to defend the ship in case of an emergency, and this training prepares them for threats or attacks against our ship."

All security force team members are required to qualify with the M9, the standard Navy sidearm, before standing their first watch.

"Learning to become a security task force member is an awesome experience," said Logistics Specialist Seaman John P. Bannasch, a future security force team member. "The protection of the ship and its crew is an integral part of the success of the mission, and I'm honored to be a part of it."

Security team members also receive training on lethal and non-lethal weapons.

"We constantly train and re-qualify our security members so that these guys have the knowledge and experience to pull from in the event of an emergency," said McBride.