Makin Island Sailors and Marines Help Deliver Food to the Elderly during Hong Kong Port Visit

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David McKee, USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- A group of Sailors and Marines from USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) joined local volunteers to help deliver bags of food to residents of the Kwai-Chung Elderly Center in Hong Kong during a community service project May 26.

A group of 35 Sailors and Marines participated in the event as part of the ship's May 25-28 port visit to Hong Kong.

The project also coincided with local observances of Mother's Day, Father's Day and the upcoming Dragon Boat festival in June.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handing) 1st Class Mark Higgenbottom, one of the Sailors volunteered for the project, said that in addition to bringing food and sundry items to the residents he shared his time with men like Cheung Kin Yip.

Through a translator, Higgenbottom said he got to know the 70 year-old man and found out that he enjoys table tennis and the Internet.

"Mr. Yip was hip for an old guy," said Higgenbottom. "The guy had a lot of energy and went out of his way to show us he stayed active playing table tennis and using the Internet to stay in touch with his family and friends."

Yip lives alone in his apartment, which is about the size of a large bedroom in a typical American home and contains a living area, bathroom and kitchen.

Through the translator, he told Higgenbottom that he enjoys a simple life of getting up in the morning and checking the stock market on the Internet and checking his email and Facebook page.

"It's easier to live on my own," said Yip through the translator. "I like my independence."

Lt. Jeff Perry, a chaplain aboard Makin Island who organized the community service project, said he thinks community relations projects like helping the elderly foster good relations in the communities that the Navy and Marine Corps visits.

"Projects like this put a face on the Navy and Marine Corps and helps build a truer and broader image of us and shows another side of the military that isn't often shown by the media," said Perry.

The group of Makin Island Sailors and Marines delivered food to two communities and another group of volunteers spent time at a local dog shelter. More than 2,000 Sailors and Marines were able to experience the Hong Kong culture during the four-day port visit.

Makin Island is the first U.S. Navy ship to deploy using a hybrid-electric propulsion system. By using this unique propulsion system, the Navy expects over the course of the ship's lifecycle, to see fuel savings of more than $250 million, proving the Navy's commitment to energy awareness and conservation.

This initiative is one of many throughout the Navy and Marine Corps that will enable the Department of the Navy to achieve the Secretary of the Navy's energy goals to improve our energy security and efficiency afloat and ashore, increase our energy independence and help lead the nation toward a clean energy economy.

Makin Island is the flagship of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group that is currently deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

The 7th Fleet area of operations includes more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans, stretching from the international date line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

USS Makin Island Arrives in Hong Kong for Port Visit

From USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), along with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Hong Kong May 25 for a port visit.

More than 2,000 Sailors and Marines are expected to go ashore to visit the city and participate in goodwill-generating activities as well as cultural exchanges.

"We appreciate the rich history of Hong Kong and look forward to enjoying our time in this part of the world," said Capt. Cedric Pringle, Makin Island's commanding officer. "Dozens of U.S. Navy ships visit Hong Kong each year, and we are fortunate to make this visit as part of our maiden deployment."

Pringle said the Sailors and Marines serving aboard Makin Island are also excited about taking part in the community service projects that include distributing food to the elderly and helping to renovate a local animal shelter.

"We are excited to have this opportunity to help promote peace and stability in the Asian-Pacific region," said Pringle. "Makin Island Sailors and Marines are excellent ambassadors for the United States during every port visit we make."

Makin Island joins the amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18), also assigned to the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which arrived in Hong Kong May 23.

Sailors and Marines are also expected to participate in a variety of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours around the city including trips to Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, the Buddha Statue Museum and Victoria Peak.

Kristen Venoy, Makin Island's MWR "fun boss," said she hopes all Makin Island Sailors and Marines enjoy their port visit to Hong Kong and take time to enjoy the culture.

"From shopping and eating to Disneyland and mountain biking, I think we have a tour for just about everyone," said Venoy. "The Sailors and Marines have worked hard over the past few months and this port visit is a reward for all of that hard work."

This is the first time Makin Island has visited Hong Kong. The ship and its crew, along with the embarked 11th MEU, departed San Diego Nov. 14, 2011, on deployment.

Makin Island is the first U.S. Navy ship to deploy using a hybrid-electric propulsion system. By using this unique propulsion system, the Navy expects over the course of the ship's lifecycle, to see fuel savings of more than $250 million, proving the Navy's commitment to energy awareness and conservation.

This initiative is one of many throughout the Navy and Marine Corps that will enable the Department of the Navy to achieve the Secretary of the Navy's energy goals to improve our energy security and efficiency afloat and ashore, increase our energy independence and help lead the nation toward a clean energy economy.

Makin Island is the flagship of the Makin Island ARG that is currently deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

The 7th Fleet area of operations includes more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans, stretching from the international date line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.

GW Sailors Volunteer at Ning Po College

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By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Marcus D. Mince, USS George Washington Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- Sailors and command-sponsored sports team members from the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) visited Ning Po College during a port visit to Hong Kong, Nov. 11.

Sailors interacted with young adults 14 to 18 years of age one day of their five-day port visit in Hong Kong for a community service project (COMSERV).

Upon arrival, the more than 20 Sailors were greeted by Ning Po College students and Sunshine Action volunteers who assisted in organizing the event.

"It's a great way for these students to interact with native English speakers," said Susanna Auyeung, a full-time volunteer for Sunshine Action. "It helps to build an established sense of self-confidence in their ability to speak proper English."

George Washington Sailors played sports, games and even gave a few drum lessons to the students, followed by an opportunity to speak one-on-one on how to deal with hardship and failure.

"The COMSERVs that we do allow everyone from the ship to give of themselves and they are very unique opportunities for all of us to share our experiences and what we've learned throughout our careers in the military," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 1st Class Paul Hryhorenko, the COMSERV leader for the event.

The trip to Ning Po College was one of 14 COMSERV events George Washington Sailors participated in during the port visit to Hong Kong.

Both the male and female soccer teams, the male and female basketball teams, and the ships rugby team were represented by volunteers for this COMSERV project.

This was George Washington's first time visiting Hong Kong since Oct., 2009. As the Navy's only full-time forward deployed aircraft carrier, George Washington's mission is to help ensure security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean and work with regional partners and allies of the United States.

Gridley Returns to San Diego After Successful Deployment

By Naval Surface Force, U.S Pacific Fleet Public Affairs Office

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) return to its San Diego homeport July 22, after completing a seven-month deployment to the Western Pacific with the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) carrier strike group.

While deployed, Gridley's mission focused on theater security cooperation, increasing stability and cooperation among regional allies. Gridley conducted exercises with ships from other navies, including the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Navy, and Republic of Singapore Navy. In conjunction with Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines (JSOTF), Gridley combated violent extremism through training events and professional exchanges.

"We have a remarkable relationship and growing partnership with many countries throughout the Western Pacific, and I'm pleased that our Sailors had the opportunity to experience rich cultures while acting as ambassadors for the United States," said Cmdr. Benjamin Allbritton, Gridley commanding officer. "Gridley was able to demonstrate goodwill and cooperation through community service projects, selected group tours, and other interactions during scheduled port visits."

Gridley Sailors participated in community relations projects in Korea, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong and the Philippines.

Gridley deployed with Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1, led by Rear Adm. Samuel Perez, and Destroyer Squadron 1, led by Capt. John Steinberger. Helicopter Squadron Light (HSL) 49 Detachment Five was embarked. Other ships in the CSG included USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), and USS Stockdale (DDG 106).

Gridley helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

'Commitment Remains Steadfast' in Asia-Pacific

By By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Kenneth R. Hendrix, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Vice Adm. Scott R. Van Buskirk told members of the Asia Society in Hong Kong on Feb. 21 that the Navy's increased capabilities and growing maritime partnerships reflect an enduring commitment to peace and stability in the region.

"The 7th Fleet has actually increased its capabilities in several significant ways. The ships and aircraft that we operate today are vastly more capable than they were just a few years ago. At the same time, we have enhanced our maritime partnerships with navies around the region, enabling us to work together cooperatively more than ever before," Van Buskirk said.

He said the numbers of ships operating in the 7th Fleet on any given day are about 70 on average, which is about the same or more than it was a decade ago with increased capabilities aboard those ships today.

Van Buskirk cited the deployment to Japan of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) -- with greater speed, range, ammunition stowage and endurance, as an example of how the fleet's capabilities have increased.

He also cited the deployment of the Ohio-class fleet ballistic missile submarines (SSBN), the 60-40 split of attack submarines from the Atlantic to the Pacific and the recent deployment of the Virginia-class submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776), which reflects the fleet's growing capability under the sea.

Van Buskirk added that upgrades to surface ships, including Ballistic Missile Defense capability and enhanced sonar suites, making them "increasingly potent."

He rejected the notion that the U.S., with its sluggish economy and military operations in Afghanistan, is lessening its commitment to the region.

"U.S. Navy and defense leadership continue to give me exactly the forces I need to do my mission," Van Buskirk said.

Improvements in capability have been made even stronger by a deepening of our alliances and partnerships around the region, Van Buskirk commented.

"Our alliance with Japan continues to be the cornerstone of our forward presence in Asia, and has in my view been the foundation of security in this region for the past 50 years," Van Buskirk said.

He also expanded on the alliance with the Republic of Korea, interoperability with the Royal Australian Navy and growth of navy-to-navy relations in Southeast Asia.

Asia Society chairman Ronnie C. Chan said the group was delighted to hear Van Buskirk's views about security in the region.

"The vice admiral touched on subjects of interest to a wide range of our members. It was very well received."

Van Buskirk reiterated that the U.S. Navy remains "committed and engaged".

"That is the message. We remain committed to this region, we remain committed to the Pacific and actively engaging where ever we can to foster maritime partnerships," he said.

USS Blue Ridge Arrives in Hong Kong

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Melvin Orr, USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- Seventh Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Hong Kong on Feb. 20 for the ship's first port visit since March 2010.

In addition to participating in community service events, more than 70 Blue Ridge, 7th Fleet embarked staff Sailors and Marines from Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Pacific, will experience the hospitality of 18 families who will host them in their homes for lunch or dinner through the "Meals in the Home" program.

"Meals in the Home" is an exchange program designed to connect local Hong Kong residents with U.S. Navy Sailors to encourage cultural differences and experiences in a domestic setting.

"I'm looking forward to meeting new people and having new experiences," said Yeoman 3rd Class Ashley Laws.

Sailors will also participate in community service projects at Fu Hong Society and Hong Chi Pinehill Village where they plan to clean rooms, playgrounds, and roofs, and to perform landscaping in the surrounding areas.

The crew will also have the opportunity to experience Hong Kong through Morale, Welfare and Recreation tours to visit nearby Chinese cities Guangzhou and Shenzen, Ocean Park and Disneyland Resort theme parks, China's gaming city of Macau, and Victoria Peak to see "A Symphony of Light," an exterior building light and laser display presented every night.

"Hong Kong is a favorite port of many Sailors, one rich with culture and history," said Blue Ridge Command Master Chief David A. Unnone. "Over the next few days, our Sailors will enjoy the warm hospitality and vibrant city landscapes this international city so proudly embraces. We look forward creating new and lasting friendships while participating in community service and while on liberty."

Blue Ridge serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy's only forward deployed amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the command ship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. CTF 76 is headquartered aboard White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan; with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Stethem Makes Port Visit to Hong Kong

From USS Stethem (DDG 63) Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Hong Kong for a port visit during the Chinese New Year celebration Feb. 4.

"We on Stethem are excited to be back in Hong Kong, and are pleased to not only enjoy liberty in Hong Kong, but also to be here to witness the great traditions associated with the New Year's festivals," said Cmdr. Hank Adams, Stethem's commanding officer.

"Port visits like this are great for the crew, giving everyone a chance to broaden their horizons through exposure to new cultures and customs," Adams added.

During Stethem's visit, crew members will take part in a community service project at the Fu Hong Society in the Cheung Sha Wang Adult Training Center, and participate in the "Meals in the Home" program hosted by the Hong Kong American Women's Association.

Sailors dine in the homes of local Hong Kong families, as part of the Meals in the Home program. This enables them to eat local cuisine, experience Hong Kong culture and strengthens relations with the local community.

Additionally, the Stethem soccer team is scheduled to play a game against the Hong Kong University soccer team.

Stethem is currently on patrol in Southeast Asia to support U.S. 7th Fleet's interoperability and training commitments in mine neutralization warfare and maritime operations.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c7f/.

This article was sponsored by Military Books.