USS Harry S. Truman Dons Battle "E" for Sixth Time in Twelve Years

From USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) was named the 2010 Battle Efficiency, or Battle "E", award winner by Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic, Feb. 2.

This is Truman's third consecutive Battle "E" award and the sixth award in the ship's twelve-year history. The ship also won the award in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2008, and 2009.

"Success breeds success," said Capt. Joseph M. Clarkson, USS Harry S. Truman commanding officer. "When a carrier is able to perform the way Truman has and manages a 'three-peat repeat'; it is obvious there is something being passed down through the crew over the years that is reflected in their performance as a team."

Clarkson, who took command of Truman shortly after it received the 2008 Battle "E" Award, said he is impressed and proud to be Truman's commanding officer.

"In my opinion, there is no better crew in the fleet," said Clarkson. "Their personal motivation and ability to maintain the high standard of excellence they set for themselves is inspiring."

Truman crew members are both proud and excited to be a part of an award winning and operational successful team.

"I was extremely excited when I found out I had orders to Truman," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Frances Vasquez. "I heard about Truman's reputation while in 'A' school. I arrived on board during deployment and will wear my Battle 'E' ribbon proudly."

After a very successful 2010, during which Truman was deployed for 213 days and conducted nearly 3,000 combat sorties in support of ground forces in Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn, Truman is authorized to wear the "E" on its superstructure until next year's winner is announced.

Following a brief underway period in which the ship will participate in the E-2D "Advanced Hawkeye" carrier suitability testing, Truman will spend the majority of 2011 in an extended maintenance period.

"Unfortunately, because of our shipyard period we will not be in the running for the award next year," said Clarkson. "Truman will be forced to let another carrier shine – but it is okay. I have confidence that Truman's crew members will maintain their exemplary work ethic and return to the sea with the same vigor and self-determination that has made them a stand out carrier for the past three years."

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/.

This article was sponsored by Military Books.