Stennis Begins Exercise In Preparation For Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kathleen O'Keefe, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) began its composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) May 6 after pulling out of San Diego.

COMPTUEX, a three-week evolution required of each carrier strike group before departing for a deployment overseas, qualifies JCSCSG to deploy to any theater of operations world-wide.

"COMPTUEX is the cornerstone of our workup cycle," said Stennis' Strike Operations Officer, Cmdr. Stevin Johnson. "It will be the first full integration with the strike group, in which we will train for operations that we might face on deployment."

Stennis will work with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) and other independent Navy ships in combating different scenarios presented by Commander, Strike Force Training Forces Pacific (CSFTP).

"COMPTUEX really makes everyone come together as a team," said Electronics Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Patrick McKeever, who participated in COMPTUEX with Stennis during its last deployment cycle. "On a large scale all the ships come together and train for deployment. Internally, the ship's company trains with essentially everyone that will be on deployment. It really prepares the entire strike group for successful operations when we deploy."

The scenarios led by CSFTP will challenge ships, the air wing, and the entire strike group, in their ability to handle a variety of circumstances the strike group could potentially encounter while deployed. CSFTP will evaluate the strike group and present results to Commander, U.S. Third Fleet.

"We will be demonstrating the strike group's combat efficiency," said Stennis Executive Officer Capt. Michael Wettlaufer. "Everything on Stennis will be a key part to the success. From our communication links, satellites, launching aircraft, down to the propulsion plants, Stennis will act as a huge piece in this exercise."

The cruiser and destroyers in the strike group will act as defense perimeters against air, submarine and surface threats, protecting Stennis so it can project its force abroad.

"COMPTUEX is the final stone, and will bring us into joint task force exercise [JTFEX], where other branches of the military will work with the strike group and we can train as a joint service," said Johnson.

JTFEX is the final exercise Stennis and the strike group must complete before deployment.

COMPTUEX will bring JCSCSG ships and aircraft together to prepare a force capable of protecting the nation's interests and security anywhere in the world.

Guantanamo Supports Coast Guard Ships, Missions in Caribbean

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leona Mynes, Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- Medium-endurance cutter USCGC Vigilant (WMEC-619) departed Naval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, May 8 after a two day port visit.

For Quartermaster 2nd Class (SW) Carlton Jones, a dockmaster attached to NS Guantanamo Bay's Port Operations Department, it was the base's 880th successful ship movement since he arrived in July 2009.

"The dockmaster is the liaison between the vessels coming in and out of port, and all of the services offered here in GTMO," said Jones. "We're the middle man for all of these ships."

Vigilant and several other U.S. Coast Guard ships frequently conduct missions in the Caribbean Sea and are regular customers of NS Guantanamo Bay, said Jones.

"Vigilant usually takes on fuel, gas, stores, water, makes liberty calls and will sometimes onload helicopter support kits," said Jones. "They can do all of that here, and we provide the support for those missions."

Providing efficient support to ships like Vigilant can present several challenges to members of the port operations department, said Jones.

"I would say the most challenging part is being able to piece everything together for the ship you're supporting," said Jones. "Between sending e-mails back and forth between the ship and here, and coordinating logistical request replies, our tasks have to be managed in a timely and professional manner."

Among the tasks Jones must coordinate for ships are fuel and stores provided by the Fleet Industrial Supply Center–Jacksonville (FISC–J) Detachment aboard NS Guantanamo Bay; weapons training facilitated by NS Guantanamo Bay's weapons department; and locations for swimming qualifications, physical readiness tests, and group workout sessions provided by Morale, Welfare and Recreation Guantanamo Bay.

Today in the Department of Defense, Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus delivers remarks at 9:45 a.m. EDT at the U.S. Green Building Council 2011 Government Summit in Washington, D.C.  Media interested in attending may contact Lt. Cmdr. Tamara Lawrence at 703-697-5342.

Army Maj. Gen. John Campbell, commanding general of Regional Command East, will brief the media live from Afghanistan at 10:30 a.m. EDT in the Pentagon Briefing Room (2E973) to provide an update on current operations.  Journalists without a Pentagon building pass will be picked up at the River Entrance only.  Plan to arrive no later than 45 minutes prior to the event; have proof of affiliation and two forms of photo identification.  Please call 703-697-5131 for escort into the building.

This Day in Naval History - May 09

By Navy News Service

1926 - LCDR Richard Byrd and Chief Machinist Mate Floyd Bennett make first flight over North Pole; both receive the Medal of Honor.

1942 - USS Wasp in Mediterranean launches 47 Spitfire aircraft to help defend Malta.

Kearsarge ARG Almost Home After Successful Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Mann

USS KEARSARGE, At Sea (NNS) -- The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), entered U.S. 2nd Fleet area of responsibility (AOR)on May 8, after completing a deployment to U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet AORs.

Entering 2nd Fleet is one of the last phases of the deployment that begun Aug. 27, when the ships deployed one month early to provide humanitarian assistance to flood-stricken Pakistan.

A portion of the Kearsarge ARG/26th MEU team detached to support the flood relief efforts while the rest of the group continued support to maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet AOR's. The Kearsarge ARG later participated in U.S. 6th Fleet operations by supporting Operation Odyssey Dawn and the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector.

"Now that we are in 2nd Fleet we are one step closer to the successful completion of a challenging, rewarding and safe deployment," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Charles Kates, Kearsarge command safety representative. "We still have a mountain of things to accomplish once we return to Norfolk. We should always keep safety in mind while on the ship and back home."

The entrance into the U.S. 2nd Fleet AOR triggers additional requirements for the Kearsarge ARG. The crew members now have to readjust to the policies and procedures of its home AOR.

"Entering 2nd Fleet is significant because all of the special entitlements that we received in 5th and 6th Fleet will stop at the end of this month," said Kearsarge Administration Officer Lt. Anthony Franklin. "We also will have an influx of new Sailors and people transferring out. The end of deployment does not mean the end of work; the crew just has different task to accomplish that are equally important."

The Kearsarge ARG is en route to disembark the 26th MEU in North Carolina and take on some family members for a "Tiger Cruise" back to homeport.

Kearsarge ARG is led by Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 4, and is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50).

Embarked detachments include Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 6, Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 21-detachment 1, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, Beach Master Unit (BMU) 2, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22.

The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) is based out of Camp Lejuene, N.C., and consists of Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 3/8, Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 26, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266 (Reinforced), 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine regiment and the Command Element.

USS Carter Hall Arrives in U.S. 2nd Fleet

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristin L. Grover, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 4 Public Affairs

USS CARTER HALL, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) returned to the U.S. 2nd Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) May 8, nearly nine months after departing Little Creek, Va.

Carter Hall, which is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), will offload Marines and cargo from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and bring families on board for a Tiger Cruise before returning to homeport.

"This is the final stop in a very lengthy and highly successful deployment," said USS Carter Hall Executive Officer Cmdr. Damon Amaral. "Everyone on board has worked extremely hard during our time at sea and will continue striving to reach the ship's goals after we return. We are maintaining focus on the current mission and looking forward to seeing our loved ones again."

The 26th MEU will offload a portion of its personnel and equipment via landing craft air cushion (LCAC) in Camp Lejeune, N.C. before arriving in Morehead City, N.C. to unload the rest of the embarked Marines and cargo.

"We have accomplished so much since we left for deployment and it is exciting to think about returning home," said Cpl. Robert Walker. "This is my second MEU deployment, and I feel fortunate that I learned new things and improved my skills during the training and exercises we took part in."

After the Marines depart, the ship will host a Tiger Cruise which allows family and friends of crew members to come on board and ride the ship back to Little Creek. This provides many Carter Hall Sailors, like Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Robert Dye, with an opportunity to see their friends and families a few days prior to homecoming.

"It has been a long deployment, and everyone is eager to see their families again," said Dye. "My dad and two brothers will be riding back with us on the Tiger Cruise. I know they are excited about seeing me and riding the ship for a few days."

Carter Hall spent the greater part of the deployment operating independently in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR before reuniting with the Kearsarge ARG in the U.S. 6th Fleet April 13.

Kearsarge ARG is led by Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 4, and is comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50). Embarked detachments include Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 6, Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 21-detachment 1, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, Beach Master Unit (BMU) 2, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22.

The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26th MEU) is based out of Camp Lejuene, N.C., and consists of Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 3/8, Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 26, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266 (Reinforced), 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine regiment and the Command Element.

Carrier Strike Group One Arrives in 7th Fleet

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 returned to the 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) May 6 after spending 95 days supporting maritime theater security operations for Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation New Dawn (OND) in the 5th Fleet AOR.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) is deployed with USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), Destroyer Squadron 1 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17. CSG-1 will reunite with USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and USS Gridley (DDG 101) which remained in Seventh Fleet during the deployment.

For OEF and OND, Carl Vinson and CVW 17 flew 1,656 combat sorties, logging a total of 9,140 hours of flight time. For OEF, the ordnance expenditure added up to 33 bombs and 2,970 rounds of 20mm ammunition.

Carrier Strike Group 1 (CSG-1) is led by Rear Adm. Samuel Perez.

"Every member of the strike group played an important role in our 5th Fleet Deployment. Our Sailors thwarted piracy, advanced partnerships in the region and supported our ground troops in the fight against insurgents," said Rear Adm. Samuel Perez, Commander, CSG-1. "From the most junior airman to the most senior pilot, Carrier Strike Group 1 Sailors played a vital role in achieving 5th Fleet Theater objectives."

"We have completed, in fine fashion, our operational tasking in protecting our men and women on the ground," said Vinson Commanding Officer Captain Bruce Lindsey. "The Sailors have worked hard every day, and have done a fantastic job."

On the last day in the 5th Fleet AOR, CSG-1, in coordination with international forces, prevented a pirate attack against the Chinese owned and crewed M/V Full City.

With the major operational tasking complete for Carl Vinson's Western Pacific deployment, there remain several tasks for Vinson and CVW 17 Sailors to complete. While in the 7th Fleet AOR, the Strike Group will conduct routine exercises with their allies and partners and visit ports around the region.

"We have a little more to finish for this deployment, and there's not a doubt in my mind we'll finish with style, grace and professionalism," said Perez.

Leap Frogs Descend on Denver Navy Week

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (PJ) Michelle Turner, U.S. Navy Parachute Team Public Affairs

DENVER (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, the Leap Frogs, made several performances during Denver Navy Week, May 6-7.

The Leap Frogs visited Standley Lake High School and Valor High School, and performed during the Cinco de Mayo Festival at Civic Center Park to showcase opportunities in the Navy and to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy as a global force for good.

The jumpers, Navy SEALs and support personnel from Naval Special Warfare Command in Coronado, Calif., parachuted onto the athletics fields at both schools and were welcomed by a crowd of cheering of students and teachers.

"It was outstanding," said Jeff Pearson, Standley Lake High School principal. "Any time high school kids get to see something that's out of the ordinary it's going to go home with them. For them to see something that they might want to do in the future that looks adventurous; it makes an impact on our kids."

Special Warfare Operator 1st Class (SEAL) Justin Gonzales was the first team member to jump from the ramp of the Minnesota Air National Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft. He trailed blue smoke from a smoke grenade attached to his foot bracket to indicate the performance was about to begin. Moments later, when all the jumpers were in the air, they maneuvered their parachutes toward one another to create canopy formations. Some jumpers stacked their parachutes to form biplanes while others swirled colored smoke across the sky and flew different flags.

After the performances, the Leap Frogs invited students and spectators to watch them pack their parachutes. They even let some spectators actually help pack their parachutes, under a watchful eye, giving the public a chance to ask questions about life as a Navy SEAL.

Navy Recruiting District Denver is part of a nationwide recruiting team looking for the best and brightest candidates to serve in the U.S. Navy, said Cmdr. Scott Hendrix, Navy Recruiting District Denver commanding officer.

"We're in the heartland of America, and there are not a lot of Navy people around here," said Hendrix. "Any time we can get Naval assets here it's great because they [the public] get to see a little snapshot of the fleet."

Taylor Goff, a senior at Valor High School, didn't need any convincing and has already decided to dedicate his life to Naval service, he said.

"I've known I was going to do it [join the Navy] since I was 11 or 12," said Goff. "This just solidified it again."

The Leap Frogs are based in San Diego and perform aerial parachute demonstrations across America in support of Naval Special Warfare and Navy Recruiting.

Bataan Contributes to First Hundred Years of Naval Aviation History

By MC1(SW) Michael J. Scott, USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, Mediterranean Sea (NNS) -- Multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) added to the Navy's 100 years of aviation heritage and Bataan's flight legacy as its Sailors and Marines spent the day conducting flight operations in the Mediterranean Sea, May 8.

Ships named Bataan have been leaving their mark on aviation history for more than 67 years, since the first Bataan (CVL 29), a light aircraft carrier was commissioned in November 1943.

"We're extremely proud of Bataan's naval aviation legacy," said Capt. Steve Koehler, Bataan's commanding officer, an F-14 Tomcat pilot by trade, who was in command of VFA-143 when the squadron made its own history and transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet. "From the missions CVL-29 flew during World War II and Korea, to the air strikes launched from our decks during Operation Iraqi Freedom, to the first at-sea operational deployment of the [MV-22] Osprey in 2009, to standing the watch off the coast of Libya today, our Navy-Marine Corps team has always been a true representation of naval aviation."

CVL-29 served the Navy from 1943 through 1954, earning a total of 13 battle stars. "Big 5" was commissioned Sept. 20, 1997, and has flown missions in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom; conducted search and rescue efforts in the Gulfport, Miss., and New Orleans areas in support of Hurricane Katrina relief efforts; and provided relief supplies ashore and conducted medical evacuations in support of Operation Unified Response in Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake.

"What an honor to be making history," said Lt. Jack Parker, Bataan's aircraft handling officer. "One hundred years ago, naval flight was in its infancy, and today we're carrying out missions all across the world."

Bataan's current mission includes maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area or responsibility, as well as providing support as required for coalition forces assigned to the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector.

"It's good to be here in the middle of the sea carrying out these missions, flying day in and day out," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Fabian Gallegos. "It's going to be written down in history someday, and I can tell my kids I was a part of it, and this is what we did."

The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Air Combat Element (ACE), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced), is currently operating a complement of MV-22B Ospreys, CH-53E Super Stallions and AV-8B Harriers from Bataan's decks. The Navy's Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, Detachment 2, is providing search and rescue support with MH-60S Seahawks. Bataan's Air Department is serving as the maestro by safely directing, launching and recovering the aircraft.

"It's nice to be a part of this history," said Capt. Charles Arnold, a naval flight officer and the assistant aircraft maintenance officer for VMM-263. "Almost everything we do is integrated within the Navy. The best part is when you are executing the missions and they go off like planned. It takes everybody coming together for that to happen."

Cmdr. Heath Howell, Bataan's air boss, said as science and technology increase, they will enlarge the sphere of influence and capabilities of the ship and her air-strike team.

"We're a floating airfield, and we can deploy anywhere in the world," said Howell. "It allows us greater flexibility in strategic planning. I don't see naval aviation ever going backwards."

Demonstration Pilot Eugene Ely flew a small aircraft from a temporarily erected flight deck on the fo'c'sle aboard USS Birmingham (CL-2) in 1910, while the ship was at anchor in the Chesapeake Bay. A few months later, Ely landed his plane on an armored cruiser in the San Francisco Bay. Ely's work led the Navy to the requisition of the service's first aircraft May 8, 1911, considered to be the birth date of naval aviation.

Ceremony Honors Fallen EOD Warriors

By Ed Barker, Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (NNS) -- The names of 15 fallen EOD warriors were added to the EOD Memorial wall during a ceremony at the Kauffman Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Training Complex aboard Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., May 7.

The names were of Army, Marine Corps and Air Force EOD technicians killed in action last year in Iraq and Afghanistan. This 42nd annual ceremony gave family, friends and members of the EOD community, past and present, a chance to honor their fallen comrades.

The event is sponsored by the EOD Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the legacy of fallen EOD warriors by providing for the maintenance and upkeep of the memorial at Eglin. Hosted by the Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal, all preparations were coordinated and executed by staff volunteers from all four services at the school.

"The EOD Memorial Foundation funds the memorial's maintenance and assists EOD families with scholarships and travel expenses to and from the annual memorial ceremony," said Foundation President Robert Fay. "We work closely with the services to document and verify that the member was killed during an EOD-related incident to be eligible to earn a place on the memorial's wall."

Oversight and management of the EOD school is the responsibility of the Navy, with joint-service manning by the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and the Air Force. The school's mission is to train officers and enlisted personnel in the best methods of detection, identification, render safe, and disposal of explosive ordnance and related devices.

Capt. Adam Guziewicz, the school's commanding officer, said reading the new names placed on the wall at the annual memorial is a poignant reminder that EOD technicians are on the front lines, risking their lives every day. The fallen warriors added to the wall in this year's ceremony consisted of five Army, eight Marines and two Air Force EOD technicians. All received their training at the EOD School aboard Eglin.

"They sacrificed all for their country, and we will never know the countless lives they have saved," said Guziewicz. "Their legacy will live on in the lives of those they left behind."

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos, served as the guest speaker for the ceremony.

"This memorial stands as a testament to the sacrifice and fidelity of our brothers and sisters-in-arms who gave everything so that Americans might live in peace," said Amos. "The explosive ordnance disposal family is a unique fraternity with a special bond, and we will always remember those noble warriors and their families for their supreme courage and steadfast loyalty to our nation and each other."

The EOD Memorial was originally built by EOD technicians in Indian Head, Md., the location of the first EOD School. The memorial was relocated to the Kauffman EOD Training Complex when the school moved to its present location in the late 1990's. The new memorial incorporates elements of the original in recognition of its history.

Gates Visits Littoral Combat Ship USS Independence

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

NAVAL BASE MAYPORT, Fla, May 7, 2011 – Seeing one of the littoral combat ships in the flesh was one of the items on Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates’ bucket list, and he got to mark that off yesterdayfollowing a visit to the USS Independence here.

“This ship is the embodiment of the revolution in military affairs,” Gates told the crew gathered in the ship’s hangar.

The crew size is just one aspect of the revolution Gates was talking about. There are only 40 crewmen (eight officers and 32 enlisted) who man a ship 104 feet wide by 418 feet long. The crew is augmented by sailors in charge of the various “packages” the ship takes aboard, and it can be configured for different missions.

In its different configurations, the ship can perform anti-mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare and humanitarian relief.

The ship can carry helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles or a mix of the two. It is a trimaran with a top speed of 44 knots, and while it is labeled the LCS-2, it is the first of its class. Much of the ship is aluminum, and several sailors spoke about how that means they don’t have to paint it.

The Navy plans to buy 55 of these littoral combat ships.

Gates joked that the first Navy ship that bore the name USS Independence was bought in 1814 to fight pirates. The current Independence, which can operate in blue water and “green water” close to shore, will be handy in the same mission. “The more things change... ” Gates quipped.

The secretary received a tour of the ship with chiefs and petty officers explaining just how different the ship is from anything else the Navy has.

The bridge is huge, and sailors don’t steer with the typical wheel. Instead, the ship is steered at computer stations and a joy stick. The bridge is carpeted, and the ship is like a floating computer network.

The berthing area is also a revelation with some rooms having two-men per room and others four. The crew is relatively senior, with the lowest-ranking person on the crew being a petty officer second class, and all personnel are trained in multiple jobs on the ship.

In Mayport, the ship was at the end of a long dock with the traditional Arleigh Burke frigates. The first view of the ship is striking. One member of Gates’ party noted that the ship looks like a floating Stealth Fighter.

“It looks sinister,” the secretary said. “That’s a good thing.”

Bataan Conducts Amphibious Training

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Erin Lea Boyce, USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, Mediterranean Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, ACU-2 and embarked Marines from 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conducted full-scale amphibious operations training May 7, allowing the crew to maintain proficiency and readiness on three different types of craft.

Bataan opened its well deck to the sea and began launching landing craft air-cushions (LCAC), and receiving landing craft utility (LCU) and combat rubber raiding crafts (CRRC) from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41).

"Amphibious day is a chance to show our operational capability and to demonstrate the fact that we can do amphibious operations," said Lt. Cmdr. Shannon Wells, Bataan's damage control assistant. "It's also to show that our equipment works, and it serves as a test to make sure the procedures we have in place are correct."

Bataan Sailors from engineering, combat systems and deck departments played primary roles in the evolution.

"Combat systems has all the communications, and they are more of the overall operations part of it," said Wells. "The deck department takes care of all the physical manhandling of the equipment, like putting the lines out, bringing the craft in and setting up the operation. Engineering department [Sailors] do the ballasting. We are the ones who ballast the ship down, literally sink the ship, and bring it back up from the water."

Wells said each craft has unique requirements for how much water is in the well.

Amphibious crews from ACU-4, operating LCACs, and ACU-2, operating LCUs, spent the day gaining proficiency in entering and leaving the well deck.

"We did what we call ins-and-outs, where we go into the well deck, set down the LCAC, we got back up, came out and went back in," said Gas Turbine Systems Technician 3rd Class Earl Langondorf, ACU-4.

Cpl. Erick Crumley, a radio operator with the 22nd MEU's radio reconnaissance unit, said the amphibious events gave the Marines a chance to gain experience in integrated blue-green operations. Crumley said when his CRRC arrived in Bataan's well deck deck, he saw "a wall of Navy there just to help pull us in."

"Every time we go out, its always great training," said Crumley. "If we were to do an amphibious certification, this is how we would leave and return, so it's good to have that down."

The focused training is keeping Sailors adept in all facets of amphibious operations.

"It was a training evolution with all the new personnel and old personnel to get qualified and to freshen up on their skills," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Christina Hicks, who is training to be the well deck control officer. "We had different issues come up that weren't expected, but everybody came out okay and had the chance to learn ."

Bataan is the command ship of the Bataan Amphibious Ready (ARG) group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

New Orleans Navy Week Gets Underway

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Steve Johnson, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

NEW ORLEANS (NNS) -- New Orleans Navy Week 2011 officially got underway with the reading of a proclamation inside city council chambers May 5.

Mark Gorenflo, deputy under secretary of the Navy, is one of the official spokesman during New Orleans Navy Week 2011. During a television interview, Gorenflo described the purpose of New Orleans Navy Week.

"This is an opportunity for the Navy to show how it is working around the world for the people of New Orleans," said Gorenflo. "The Navy is America's away team, ready to fight, ready to respond to global threats anywhere in the world, or to perform humanitarian missions."

President of the New Orleans City Council, Jackie Clarkson, read the proclamation honoring Navy men and women, after the colors were paraded through city hall and Navy musicians performed for spectators.

The Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO), Navy Recruiting District (NRD) New Orleans and Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NASJRB) New Orleans have joined forces this week, along with the Navy Blue Angels and Navy Band New Orleans to provide opportunities for citizens to meet Sailors and learn more about the Navy's vast operational capabilities.

New Orleans Navy Week is one of 21 Navy Weeks being held across America in 2011, and is designed to provide local residents an up-close and personal look at the service performed by the men and women of the U.S. Navy.

The week is slated to include the following events: Navy participation in the Nawlin's Air Show, which is expected to attract upwards of 75,000 visitors each day; the U.S. Navy Band New Orleans will perform at several area schools as well as at a variety of free public concerts; Sailors from namesake ships and from local Navy commands will volunteer at projects coordinated by Habitat For Humanity and Beacon of Hope, as well as area high schools.

The week-long schedule of events also includes government, corporate, civic and educational engagements by Navy spokesmen who aim to tell the Navy's role in world affairs.

During New Orleans Navy Week 2011, Rear Adm. Victor G. Guillory, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, U.S. 4th Fleet will throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the New Orleans Zephyer's baseball game, conduct media interviews throughout the city, speak to members of the Downtown Rotary Club and the New Orleans Urban League, and he will deliver ball caps and good cheer to young patients during a Caps For Kids event in the Children's Ward of the Ochsner Hospital. Guillory will also pay a visit to his alma mater Holy Cross High School.

"New Orleans is at its heart a true Navy town, dating back more than 200 years," said Cmdr. John Filostrat, a native of New Orleans and the officer-in-charge for the Navy Office of Community Outreach during New Orleans Navy Week 2011.

"The local community has embraced the Navy, which is home to a Navy Recruiting District, Naval Air Logistics Office, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chasse and the Navy Operational Support Center in Algiers," said Filostrat. "The partnership that exists here remains strong and thriving."

Interactive displays including the Navy Suburban, a Navy-themed media center on wheels equipped with video games, and the Navy Simulator which is a ride that moves in sync with live-action video imagery to give a person the sense and idea of what the Navy is about, will provide additional entertainment during Navy Week events at a variety of locations in and around the New Orleans region.

The last time New Orleans was selected to host a Navy Week was in 2009.

Guardsman Deployed to Afghanistan Publishes Leadership Book

Captain Corey D. Roberts, USA is the 1248th US Military Servicemember listed on Military-Writers.com.

1n 1993, Corey D. Roberts joined the Iowa Army National Guard at the age of 17 following his father’s footsteps. He began as an enlisted soldier and worked his way up to Non-Commissioned Officer. In 1998 Corey was selected for and attended the Officer Candidate School at the Iowa Military Academy and graduated in 1999. Corey chose to postpone his Commissioning and as a Sergeant, was deployed to Montana in 2000 to battle the wildfires in the western mountains of the state.

In 2001, Corey took his Congressional Commission as a 2nd Lt in the Armor Branch and joined a Cavalry Unit in the state of Iowa. Corey attended the Armor Officer Basic Course in Ft Knox KY in 2002 and graduated in early 2003. Following graduation from the school, Corey was deployed as a Platoon Leader of Reconnaissance Scouts to Kosovo in support of the NATO Peacekeeping Operation. During this time he and his troops were assigned to work with a Coalition of International Forces and Corey was a Forward US Commander under a Swedish Battalion.

Upon return, Corey held positions of Tank Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, Squadron Logistics Officer, Brigade Plans Officer, and Brigade Liaison Officer. Corey was deployed in 2010 to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Corey currently serves as a Brigade Current Operations Officer in the 2nd Brigade, 34th Infantry Division.” Corey D. Roberts is the author of The Pack Mentality and the Leadership Lessons of Ike.

According to the book description of The Pack Mentality and the Leadership Lessons of Ike, “In the world of Law Enforcement we are the protectors, the defenders, the warriors against the evils of the world. We are the pack of Sheepdogs, searching out what goes bump in the night and confronting the wolf. We must identify with the Alpha Dog if we are to lead this group of dedicated warriors in the pure and honorable fight.

Corey D Roberts has dedicated his life to being a Sheepdog and has served in leadership roles in the US Army, in Law Enforcement, and in the private sector. Ike was a border collie, a constant presence during Corey’s formative years and a great example of leadership for us all. Ike was the Sheepdog, he was the Alpha Dog.

The Pack Mentality and the Leadership Lessons of Ike takes the lessons of the Border Collie and his dedicated pack of sheepdogs and applies them in a practical way to the leaders of our brave men and women in Law Enforcement. These practical and often hard learned lessons can direct you to the path of a true leader, an Alpha Dog.”

Korean War Novel

With the addition of Jeffrey Miller’s Korean War novel, War Remains, Military-Writers.com now lists 1247 US Military personnel and the 3956 books they have written.

Jeffrey Miller, USAF, is ”Originally from LaSalle, Illinois, he has been living and working in Asia since 1989. After serving in the United States Air Force from 1976-1980, attended Southern Illinois University, Illinois Valley Community College, Eureka College and Western Illinois University.

Jeffrey Miller is currently teaching at Woosong University in Daejeon, South Korea, he has also been a feature writer for the Korea Times (2000-2006); it was during this time that his interest in the Korean War led to his coverage of many Korean War Commemorative events in Korea. Eventually this would become the inspiration for his first novel, War Remains.”

According to the book description of War Remains, “Robert "Bobby" Washkowiak battles his way through the bitter first winter of the Korean War, longing for home, his wife, and newborn son. Fifty years later, his son and grandson come across his wartime letters and together, they try to find out what really happened to him on one of the battlefields of that "forgotten war.”

Today in the Department of Defense, Monday, May 09, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

Bethesda Facilities Certified LEED Gold

By Ensign Kat Smith, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The Officer-in-Charge of Construction (OICC) Bethesda hosted a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) ceremony at the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) May 5, recognizing the LEED Gold certification of the new in-patient and out-patient facilities.

Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Washington commissioned OICC in 2008, to oversee Base Closure and Realignment (BRAC) construction at the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) Bethesda.

"It's a good time to reflect on what our mission is, particularly for NAVFAC," said Capt. Steve Hamer, OICC commanding officer. "I think that we see ourselves as good stewards of resources. I think that's what our Navy and our Department of Defense expect of us."

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded the Gold certification for the newly built Arrowhead and America facilities, which were scored together as one project.

"Today, once again, the Navy is setting the example," said Jason Hartke, vice president of national policy, USGBC. "Today's achievement, the America building and the Arrowhead facility will be a shining example to us all; a beacon that inspires others to follow."

The America building, located to the left of the main tower, is designed as an outpatient facility providing services for cancer patients, amputees and other outpatient clinical needs. The Arrowhead building, located to the right of the tower, houses emergency in-patient services.

"This is the largest outpatient building in the military health system; right behind us," said Vice Adm. John Mateczun, Joint Task Force (JTF) Capital Medicine commanding officer. "When you add it and the parking garage, and the building that's on the other side, that's a million square feet of construction. So when we can achieve energy efficiencies there, it's a great thing."

The location of the project, promotes views to the main tower, open space and contributes to the overall healing environment for the wounded warriors. The proximity of the new facilities to mass transit impacts the congestion in the surrounding community and improves the accessibility of the facility.

Achieving LEED Gold certification for the New Construction facilities at NNMC was an exceptional feat as hospitals are inherently energy inefficient since they operate around the clock and use high-energy major medical equipment, said Andrew Gutberlet, supervisory project manager, OICC.

Two of the most significant contributions were site selection and energy efficiency. One of the most notable energy conservation systems is the use of a heat recovery system within the two facilities, which significantly decreases the energy cost of operating the buildings and allows for other enhancements that promote quality of care for wounded warriors.

The heat recovery wheels and other energy-efficient improvements result in a 32 percent reduction in energy usage. This corresponds to an energy savings of more than $580 per year. This savings exceeds the projected 50-year lifetime of this facility, which is a savings of more than $29 million in energy costs alone.

"As we accept the certification for LEED Gold, we recognize our responsibility to the nation, to the taxpayer and to the American people to be good stewards of the resources that have been provided us," said Col. Charles Callahan, deputy commander, NNMC. "But more importantly, we care for America's treasures when we take care of the warriors and their families. And we accept this plaque and these facilities on behalf of the men and women who will care for those warriors here in the next year, and for the next century as we become Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda."

Under a mandate from the Secretary of the Navy, all new construction must meet the USGBC LEED Silver Certification requirements. The design and construction team for these buildings, a collaboration between Clark and Balfour Beatty construction companies and their design subcontractors, structured their design with the intent to meet that standard. The project achieved 30 percent more points than is required to achieve a LEED Silver certification.

This achievement exceeds the requirements of the executive order and provides an outstanding level of environmental stewardship, energy efficiency and sustainability that directly supports the goals of the U.S. Navy and DOD.

All MIDPAC Ships Receive Green "H" Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Mark Logico, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Commander, Navy Surface Group Middle Pacific (CNSG MIDPAC) announced that all 11 of its Hawaii-based Navy surface ships received the 2010 Force Health and Wellness Award, or the Green "H", May 6.

"The Green H Award is a milestone we all can take pride in as it encompasses everything from Safety/Operational Risk Management to Tobacco Cessation, all of which affect the lives of our most precious resource - our people," said Vice Adm. D. C. Curtis, the Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SURFPAC). "Without the professional oversight of SURFPAC's very own medical department, the awareness and execution of these programs would not have achieved this impressive milestone."

The purpose of this unit award is to recognize the Sailors aboard ships who demonstrate their dedication to helping Sailors make constructive changes in their life by conducting activities like cardiopulmonary resuscitation training, smoking cessation courses, regular health fairs, fitness sessions and education on healthy living.

"It has never happened before," said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Timothy George, the independent duty corpsman program manager for CNSG MIDPAC. "This is the first time that we have attained a hundred percent of our ships getting Green H. It also tells that more focus is being placed on health and wellness programs on board these ships. It means these ships have realized that a healthier ship is a better ship to go out a fight with."

The ships under CNSG MIDPAC include USS Chafee (DDG 90), USS Chosin (DDG 65), USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS Crommelin (FFG 37), USS Hopper (DDG 70), USS Lake Erie (CG 70), USS Okane (DDG 77), USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), USS Port Royal (CG 73), USS Reuben James (FFG 57) and USS Russell (DDG 59).

"My personal congratulations to all commands that made submission and special recognition is extended to this year's winners," Curtis said in an official message. "You have again demonstrated unfailing commitment to the health and wellness of our Sailors, our Navy's most valuable asset. Their welfare is absolutely essential to our readiness and to the success of our mission. Continue to provide tools and awareness to out Sailors so they may be successful."

The qualifying period for this award was from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2010. Ships that receive the COMNAVSURFOR Force Health and Wellness award can paint a Green "H" on the ship's bridge wing. Hash marks are painted below the "H" to indicate sequential awards. Commands awarded the Green "H" five consecutive times are authorized to paint a green star above the Green "H".

"It took a constant push to remind Sailors how important fitness, safety and mission readiness," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW) William Triplett, the independent Corpsman assigned to Port Royal. "It was only accomplished through a collaborative effort from the drug and alcohol prevention advisor, command fitness leaders, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, safety officer and the food service officer. Without their help and drive, we would not have been able to pull this off."

Port Royal and Hopper received their 12th consecutive Green H award.

"For most, I think it shows that our decrease in alcohol related incidents, physical fitness assessment failures and reduction in overall mishaps has not gone unnoticed," said Triplett. "This ship has come a long way in a short time and her crew is finally reaping the rewards for getting her back in the game."

Operational Uncertainties Require Flexibility, Gates Says

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C., May 6, 2011 – The lesson Americans should take from recent military operations is that we cannot predict where or how U.S. forces will be engaged, and having flexible capabilities is the best defense for the nation, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said here today.

Since the Vietnam War, U.S. leaders have a “perfect” record in forecasting where America is going to use military power next: “We have never once gotten it right,” Gates said to about 450 airmen in a hangar at this F-15 Strike Eagle base.

“We just don’t know, and that’s why we have to be prepared,” he said.

Given that record, Gates said, the equipment the military buys and the capabilities it develops must be broad based. Especially in a time of budget constraints, he said, “we need to buy capabilities that have the maximum possible flexibility for the broadest possible range of conflict.”

Americans should be cautious about significant cuts in the defense budget, Gates said. Four times in the last century America has significantly reduced its military capabilities after a war – World War I, World War II, Vietnam and the Cold War. Each time it was because people thought the world had changed, that challenges had gone away.

“Human nature hasn’t changed,” he said. “There will always be despots out there, there will always be aggressors and tyrants.

“The United States must keep its military capabilities strong as it look to the future, because we can’t tell what the future will hold,” he said.

The federal debt crisis is dire, but that seems to be the only time a democracy will confront a problem, the secretary said. “All through our history, people will try and put off dealing with a crisis for as long as they can, until it cannot be put off any longer,” he said. “If there is a consensus in Washington on one thing, it is that we cannot put off dealing with this crisis any longer.”

A strong defense needs a strong economy, and the Defense Department has a role to play in cutting the deficit, Gates said. There are more savings to be made, particularly in infrastructure and medical coverage, which is eating away at the Defense budget, he said.

“What I have been trying to do – in dealing with the Congress and the White House – is say, ’Let’s not do this as math, as opposed to strategy,” he said. “Let’s take a look at our capabilities; let’s take a look at scenario-based force planning and see where we can take additional risk.”

The country needs a process that provides the president and Congress options that make sense, the secretary said. The options would be realistic and convey, “if you want to reduce Defense by this much, these are the changes in assumptions you have to make, and here is the added risk you face if you head in that direction,” he said.

If the country has the time to adopt this budget strategy, and plans for reductions, “and do it intelligently, we can do our part without weakening our national security,” he said.

Family Matters Blog: President Honors Military Spouses

By Carol L. Bowers

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 6, 2011 – Just as service members serve our nation every day, so, too, do their military spouses. In recognition of their significant daily contributions, President Barack Obama has proclaimed today Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

“On Military Spouse Appreciation Day, we have an opportunity to not only honor the husbands and wives of our service members, but also thank them by actively expressing our gratitude in both word and deed,” Obama said in the proclamation. “We can show our appreciation in countless ways, from offering to help with household maintenance and childcare to encouraging the community involvement and career development of military spouses.”

Here at Family Matters, we encourage you to reach out to military spouses not just today, but every day. We also invite you to send us suggestions about ways to provide support and encouragement to military spouses throughout the year.

Meanwhile, be sure to read Obama’s full proclamation.  Also, check out the related AFPS Web special reports: “Strengthening Our Military Families” and “Joining Forces”

Today in the Department of Defense, Sunday, May 08, 2011

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates and Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn have no public or media events on their schedules.

Navy Medicine, FBI Share Initiatives During Denver Navy Week

By Valerie A. Kremer, Navy Medicine Public Affairs

DENVER (NNS) -- Navy Medicine and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Denver Division, examined shared initiatives in global partnerships, medical care, and the protection of the nation, as part of Denver Navy Week, May 4.

Rear Adm. William M. Roberts, fleet surgeon, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, met with leadership and staff and toured the facility during the visit.

"Everything is done in a joint environment," said James Yacone, special agent in charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation Denver Division. "We must work to partner with the Department of Defense, law enforcement, and community leaders to protect our country. Developing a relationship with Navy Medicine further demonstrates how we can work together to protect our homeland."

During the visit, FBI Denver Division leadership and Roberts shared ideas and agreed on the importance of creating inter-agency and community partnerships to include humanitarian assistance/ disaster relief missions and homeland security operations around the globe.

"We are proud to have the opportunity to advance the relationship between the FBI and Navy Medicine," said Roberts. "The relationship between the FBI and other agencies is crucial in developing partnerships to protect our citizens and their freedom."

During his presentation to staff, Roberts shared how Navy medical humanitarian assistance missions are a critical piece of the Navy's maritime strategy. Along with traditional roles like deployments and projecting power abroad, Roberts discussed how international military medical partnerships and teaming with non-government organizations support the Navy's mission.

Roberts also met with FBI medical staff to discuss trauma care, lifesaving techniques, procedures currently used on the battlefield in Afghanistan, and advancements in Navy Medicine research and development.

"We are proud to know that if our special agents are in need of medical care overseas, they will receive world-class care from Navy Medicine," said Amy Hanks, FBI regional occupational and environmental program manager, FBI headquarters, Washington, D.C.

The FBI Denver Division covers the states of Colorado and Wyoming and has 10 satellite offices, or "resident agencies," located throughout both states.

Denver Navy Week is one of 21 Navy weeks across the country in 2011. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they make in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.