Saturday, March 05, 2011

USS Bonhomme Richard Earns Battle "E"

By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class (SW) Kurt Riggs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) earned the Battle "E" award for its performance demonstrating the highest state of battle readiness in 2010.

The award recognizes sustained superior performance in an operational environment as a command and several significant achievements for excellence such as maritime warfare, engineering/survivability, command and control and logistics management. The command must then be nominated by their immediate superior in command.

"It's a significant achievement," said Capt. Charles Litchfield, Bonhomme Richard's executive officer. "The crew put in a lot of hard work in order to earn this honor and they should be recognized. This award validates what Bonhomme Richard sailors have known for a long time that this ship and her crew are top-notch in every regard."

Sixteen different areas are considered in the competition such as a ship's performance during training exercises, weapons inspections and tactical readiness. The evaluation in a year-long process and demands demonstrated excellence and superior achievement during certifications and qualifications throughout the year.

Commands earning the achievement may display a white "E" with a black shadow in a prominent position, as well as uniform ribbons noting the achievement.

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