USS Houston Visits Singapore During Western Pacific Deployment

By Lt. Luis Luy, USS Houston Public Affairs

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Houston (SSN 713) arrived in Singapore July 15 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 142, Houston will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"Being in Singapore and part of a bilateral exercise with the Republic of Singapore Navy is a great opportunity," said Cmdr. Scott McGinnis, Houston's commanding officer. "Singapore and Houston have a long history together; during World War II, Sailors from the heavy cruiser Houston (CA-30), after fighting in the Java sea were brought to Singapore for three months as prisoners of war. It is an honor to return here in memorial to their sacrifices.

"The crew is excited about the engagement during CARAT [Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training] Singapore and proud to be a part of the strong relationship between the Republic of Singapore and the United States."

Houston is equipped with four torpedo tubes, two countermeasure tubes and the ability to deploy and operate around the globe. Houston's design and crew spirit has earned recognition for being one of the fastest and fiercest vessels in the Pacific.

"Since departing Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, mighty warship Houston and her crew have been deployed to the 7th Fleet AOR demonstrating both the professionalism and perseverance that it takes to be a successful Western Pacific asset," said Senior Chief Sonar Technician Paul McCrory, the chief of the boat aboard Houston. "Their pride is displayed daily by continuing our storied history in the United States Navy and the Pacific Fleet with challenging operations and successful port calls. This deployment will culminate 33 years of dedication to the silent service. My crew is looking forward to our port visit in Singapore. We look forward to strengthening our bond and sharing our experiences with our Singaporean counterparts. We are also excited and grateful for the hospitality and the opportunity to experience Singapore's culture and all that Singapore has to offer, especially to our many young Sailors who are visiting for the first time."

For some of the crew, this is their first time visiting Singapore.

"I am quite excited about visiting Singapore since I hear that it offers a great variety of stores, in addition to an enhanced quality of life," said Electronics Technician Seaman Juanya Whittaker. "In particular, I am looking forward to exploring their computer stores and culture as a whole. I expect to purchase a few memorable items to send back home since this is my first time. Nonetheless, I will definitely ride on their famous Ferris wheel. Lastly, I look forward to being a tourist and experiencing all that Singapore has to offer."

Measuring 360 feet long and displacing 6,900 tons when submerged, Houston is one of the stealthiest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, intelligence, and surveillance and reconnaissance.

Houston is homeported out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and is the fourth U.S. Navy vessel to be named after the city of Houston, Texas. In commemoration of the heavy weight cruiser USS Houston (CA 30), most commonly known as the Ghost of the Java Coast, which was lost in the Battle of the Java Sea, Houston (SSN 713) was commissioned on Sept. 25, 1982 and has starred in deployments, exercises and the famous submarine movie, The Hunt for Red October. Houston is the 132nd nuclear-powered submarine and the 20th of the Los Angeles class.

Navy Plays Key Role in CJLOTS 2015 Combined Weather Team

By Staff Sgt. Christopher Perkey and Capt. Agneta Murnan, CJLOTS 2015 Public Affairs

ANMYEON BEACH, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- The Navy played a key role in a combined weather team which helped to overcome the challenges of extreme tidal fluctuations on the west coast of South Korea during the Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (CJLOTS) 2015 exercise June 29 to July 9.

At Anmyeon, the tide can vary up to 8 meters (29 feet), but wave heights, tide schedules, sea states, ocean currents, changing beach shape, wind speeds and visibility all factored into U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) decision-making about the safe and efficient movement of cargo from the sea to the shore.

Around the clock, a team of U.S. and ROK meteorologists and oceanographers (METOC) worked through data and weather model analysis to inform the decisions of commanders and harbor masters, directing the complex flow of amphibious cargo movements.

Because ROK and U.S. forecasters use different models, it was important to collaborate in order to achieve consensus on predictions about the sea and sky conditions.

"One team, one forecast," said Lt. Cmdr. Gon, the Expeditionary Strike Group 3 METOC detachment officer in charge.

More than 40 vessels had to maneuver safely in the sea area. Vehicles, cargo and service members were in constant motion ashore.

"I considered every phase of the exercise for safety," said ROK Senior Chief Petty Officer Lee, Soon Hwa, the ROK Navy's lead weather instructor for its education command. "I had to think about the operations to advise go, or no-go, decisions."

The CJLOTS 2015 exercise tested both ROK and U.S. pipelines, ROK amphibious cargo deliveries and the establishment of a temporary 560 meter (1,840 foot pier) Trident Pier.

Because operational and weather information were so interrelated, both the METOC and the harbor masters controlling movements were located together on the beach.

Air Force Staff Sgt. Anthony Chavis, a battlefield weather forecaster for the 18th Weather Squadron at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, said he stepped in as staff weather officer to provide real time data to the harbormasters next-door.

"If you don't have a weather person here that is experienced at analyzing the situation as far as the weather perspective, you may not have the lead time for the person in charge to make a timely and informed decision to protect their assets in bad weather," said Chavis.

"The implemented Air Force staff weather officers are absolutely vital to the operations that we do here," said Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Clinton M. Smith, commander of the 545th Harbor Master Detachment, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. "They give us the weather forecast anywhere from 24 hours to a week of information at a time, to make the decisions that made CJLOTS 2015 successful."

Some vessels and equipment needed to be moved in low tide conditions, some at high tide. The tides might move sand mass to the pier or away from it. Given the complexity of operations, Lee said he knew that the combined team's work was essential to the exercise's success.

"This is my third time for CJLOTS," said Lee. "This was the best for me because I did my job successfully, and the exercise was successful."

Logistics Over-the-Shore (LOTS) operations are military activities that include offshore loading and unloading of ships when fixed port facilities are unavailable or denied due to enemy activities. LOTS operations are conducted over unimproved shorelines, through fixed ports not accessible to deep draft shipping, and through fixed ports that are otherwise inadequate without the use of LOTS capabilities.

"This Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore exercise conducted by the ROK and U.S. forces is significant in the sense that it was the first successfully conducted exercise in the west sea overcoming operational difficulties and limitations," said Republic of Korea Navy Rear Adm. Park, Ki Kyung, Flotilla 5 commander.

More than 1,700 total personnel took part in the CJLOTS 2015 exercise with approximately 900 U.S. and 800 ROK personnel participating in the event. The exercise, which took place June 29 through July 9 at the Anmyeon Beach on the west coast of the Republic of Korea, demonstrated the ROK and U.S. ability to transfer solid and liquid cargo from the sea to the shore and is designed to improve logistics interoperability, communication and cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea.

CJLOTS Team Connects Pipeline at Anmyeon Beach in South Korea

By Army Sgt. Maricris C. McLane, CJLOTS 2015 Public Affairs

ANMYEON BEACH, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- U.S. and Republic of Korea forces successfully connected and tested a 3.2 kilometer (2 mile) long temporary fuel transfer pipeline from a U.S. Naval vessel to Anmyeon Beach in South Korea July 1-3 as part of the Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (CJLOTS) 2015 exercise.

This is the first successful connection of the pipeline on South Korea's west coast, due to the challenges of significant tidal fluctuations, or changes in water levels of up to 8 vertical meters (29 feet), in a busy coastal area.

"This expeditionary capability can be used worldwide for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, contingencies or crisis response," said Cmdr. Erik Palin, naval liaison officer for Military Sealift Command Korea. "This success validates the capability for a rapid supply of water or petroleum from sea to shore in times of need."

A large part of any logistical support is the movement of liquid cargo.

"Typically, diesel, JP8, JP5 are the products we deliver," said Rick Bower, senior mission specialist of the Offshore Petroleum Distribution System. "It's whatever the customers use or require."

The formal name of the system tested was the Offshore Petroleum Discharge System, but during CJLOTS 2015, potable water is delivered from the USNS Vice Adm. K. R. Wheeler (T-AG 5001) to a collapsible bag that acts as a tank on shore.

Palin explained that the Wheeler is anchored approximately two miles away from the shore, and the Wheeler's work boat, the USNS Fast Tempo, first needed to pull the pipeline closer to the coast. Then a lightweight shot line was sent to a Lighter Amphibious Resupply Cargo craft on shore and with the use of dozers the pipe was pulled ashore.

"As soon as the pipeline reached the shore, we hooked up the pipe to the Beach Termination Unit, which will interface with the Army Inland Petroleum Distribution System to allow the product to be pumped to the warfighter," told Bower.

According to Bower, the system is now capable of supplying water to be used by exercise participants.

"The system is designed to deliver 1.7 million gallons of product," said Bower. "What we did here is we took another step to show that we not only deliver in a standard environment, but we now show them that in this extended mud flat type of situation, we can deliver product anywhere in the world."

Logistics Over-the-Shore (LOTS) operations are military activities that include offshore loading and unloading of ships when fixed port facilities are unavailable or denied due to enemy activities. LOTS operations are conducted over unimproved shorelines, through fixed ports not accessible to deep draft shipping, and through fixed ports that are otherwise inadequate without the use of LOTS capabilities.

"This Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore exercise conducted by the ROK and U.S. forces is significant in the sense that it was the first successfully conducted exercise in the west sea overcoming operational difficulties and limitations," said Republic of Korea Navy Rear Adm. Park, Ki Kyung, Flotilla 5 commander.

More than 1,700 total personnel took part in the CJLOTS 2015 exercise with approximately 900 U.S. and 800 ROK personnel participating in the event. The exercise, which took place June 29 through July 9 at the Anmyeon Beach on the west coast of the Republic of Korea, demonstrated the ROK and U.S. ability to transfer solid and liquid cargo from the sea to the shore and is designed to improve logistics interoperability, communication and cooperation between the U.S. and South Korea.

Louisiana Senate honors 2nd Bomb Wing

by Airman 1st Class Curt Beach
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

7/15/2015 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Louisiana State Senator Barrow Peacock presented Col. Kristin Goodwin, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, with a resolution congratulating the 2nd BW for earning the 2014 Brigadier General Frederick W. Castle Award here, July 13.

"The Castle Award is the culmination of Airmen, civilians, and community partners working together to achieve even greater heights," said Goodwin. "The honor of a Louisiana Senate resolution highlights the importance of this relationship. Our team extends well beyond our gates. Whether military or civilian, they all contribute to our collective success."

Peacock wrote the resolution and sent it before the Louisiana State Senate, where it passed, 24-15.

The Castle Award, founded in 2010, memorializes Brig. Gen. Frederick W. Castle, Medal of Honor recipient and namesake of a former Strategic Air Command base. Awarded annually, it recognizes Air Force Global Strike Command's best bomb wing for its accomplishments and quality initiatives and honors the heritage of courageous Airmen and their role in the nuclear deterrence mission.

Throughout 2014, the 2nd BW reformed processes which earned Air Force and Department of Defense accolades punctuated by the highest possible ratings on multiple major inspections.

This is the second time 2nd BW has earned the prestigious award, the first being in 2010. Last year's recipient was the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri; the nation's B-2 Spirit unit and one of three AFGSC active duty bomb wings.

"Whether it is their role in the Nuclear Enterprise, supporting combatant commanders or enhancing the capabilities of their base, the Airmen of Barksdale, in conjunction with community partners, are making a difference every day," the resolution reads.

It continues, "Therefore, be it resolved that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana does hereby commend and congratulate the Airmen of Barksdale Air Force Base and 2nd Bomb Wing commanders, Brig. Gen. Andrew Gebara and Col. Kristin Goodwin, for being awarded the 2014 Brigadier General Frederick W. Castle Award for best bomber wing in Air Force Global Strike Command and does hereby express enduring appreciation for the pride they bring to the citizens of the United States and Louisiana."

2nd Bomb Wing Commander shares insights on Continuous Bomber Presence Mission

by 2nd Bomb Wing staff
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

7/13/2015 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Recently, Col. Kristin Goodwin, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, visited Barksdale Airmen deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, in support of U.S. Pacific Command's Continuous Bomber Presence mission.

Warriors from the 2nd BW have been supporting this mission, designed to provide an assurance and deterrence presence in the critical Asia-Pacific region, - since its inception more than 11 years ago.

Here, the colonel shares some insight regarding her visit:

Q1. What types of missions have our Airmen been supporting during this rotation?

A1:  Since arriving in early March, our Airmen from the 20th Bomb Squadron have flown more than 900 hours in support of U.S. Pacific Command objectives. Unique opportunities have included: exercising interoperability with joint terminal air controllers; integrating with the B-1 during a pair of sorties; and showcasing the power of the B-52 through participation in airshows in unique places like Malaysia.

Q2. Has our team participated in any notable missions or exercises during this rotation?

A2:  Supporting Balikatan, a bilateral Philippines-U.S. exercise stands out. This year's was one of the largest, involving more than 11,000 service members between the two nations. Opportunities to integrate with international allies are great training for our crews and it demonstrates how conventional capabilities of the B-52 can be leveraged. Training with allied nations is just one more way we demonstrate American resolve and our commitment to the region. 

Q3: What makes our Airmen and the B-52s well-suited to support the Pacific region?

A3:  Beyond its ability to cover a lot of ground through long-duration sorties and carry a wider variety of munitions than any other airframe in the USAF's inventory, the B-52 is a very visible symbol of American airpower. Our allies and adversaries take note of when, where, and how we employ, making the B-52 an ideal platform for the increasingly dynamic Asia-Pacific Theater.

As for our Airmen who operate and maintain the jet in this expeditionary environment; first and foremost, they are Warriors. They are ready and prepared for any mission and contingency. Just a few weeks ago, they were forced to evacuate for a typhoon.  For many, this would have disrupted the mission - not our team! They persevered and were able to plan and launch complex, higher headquarters-directed missions from their remote location. When we talk about an Air Force powered by Airmen, this is what we are talking about: undeniable warrior spirit, and our Airmen have it!

Q4: What stood out to you during this visit?

A4:  Teamwork. When we deploy to Guam, our team join the men and women of the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base. With their support, we bed-down our Airmen, establish connectivity with the AOR, and set up flying and maintenance operations - not to mention we rely on them for all the other functions you would expect on an Air Force Base: a dining facility, gym, medical support, security...the list goes on. Thanks to our partnership, our deployed Airmen are mission-ready on day one. The success of our assurance and deterrence role in the Asia-Pacific Region is a result of great Airmen working together to accomplish great things. Every job contributes to the mission, and every Airman is helping shape the future of the region.

Q5: How have you seen the Continuous Bomber Presence mission evolve over the past 10 years? What does the 2nd Bomb Wing's future look like in regards to supporting this mission?

A5:  The CBP deployment is a fantastic opportunity for training and real-world operations. Over the years, our team has been able to work with an increasing number of joint and international partners. There is no substitute for this type of experience.  When the B-52 goes to combat, we will be striking the enemy with a team composed of our sister services and coalition partners. Guam affords our Airmen the opportunity to work, train and employ alongside these forces and establish relationships enabling future operations.

Speaking of future operations, the nature of the Pacific AOR is constantly changing.  The strategic aims of constituent nation-states change over time, and the manner by which they pursue their goals change as well. As a result, our Airman must constantly adapt and remain ever vigilant. Each deployment produces new tactics and new innovations that drive how we employ the latest technology designed for the B-52.  The future of CBP is exciting. We look forward to the impact the Airmen of Barksdale will have as they perform our mission in support of Pacific Command objectives.

Q6: How is the morale of our team there?

A6:  It is never easy to be away from family and loved ones. Whether you are across the country or across the ocean, being separated from home is tough. We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of support our Airmen receive from friends and family state-side. From phone calls to care packages, simple acts really make a difference while deployed.

Team Barksdale is much more than just our Airmen. It is all those who support and encourage, those who motivate our deployed Airmen to do their best every day.  Because of this, our team is doing great! They are excited about the mission, proud of their accomplishments and eager to support our Combatant Commanders.

Q7: What would you say to people who think about CBP and say, "Oh, that's just a trip to Guam."?

A7:  The mission on Guam is real. Our Airmen are helping stabilize a region of the world through every jet loaded and every sortie launched. Our crews have flown alongside hostile nations, been intercepted by foreign aircraft, and have curbed aggressive international action. Barksdale Airmen are making a real difference, and we are incredibly proud of the role each has in this important mission.

Q8: Any final thoughts?

A8:  The Barksdale mission touches every corner of the globe.  Our Airmen are actively supporting every Combatant Command. The Continuous Bomber Presence on Guam is just one example of the tremendous impact the Airmen of Barksdale are making on the world.  We are incredibly proud of the great work our team is doing while deployed and at home. Thank you for the opportunity to tell their story.