Coast Guard CAMSLANT Closed? Not!

I have seen some post around the hobby net indicating that CAMSLANT Chesapeake has closed. Nothing could be further from the truth.  First some background on the closure of CAMSPAC Point Reyes courtesy of the Point Reyes Light (9/17/2015) at
http://www.ptreyeslight.com/article/after-43-years-coast-guard-site-closes. Bolding within the article below is by the post author.

After 43 years, Coast Guard site closes

By Samantha Kimmey

 

The United States Coast Guard communications facility in the Point Reyes National Seashore was decommissioned last Friday as part of a nationwide process of consolidation to centralize communications. “It is a historic day. It is the end of a chapter in Coast Guard history,” said Vice Admiral Charles Ray, the Pacific Area commander of the Coast Guard, at the decommissioning ceremony. The Bay Area station first started in San Francisco in 1937, but was moved to the seashore in 1972, with a receiver station near Abbotts Lagoon and a transmitter site in Bolinas. The station—Communications Area Master Station Pacific, or CAMSPAC—called itself “the nerve center of the Pacific Area Coast Guard,” and provided communications to over 13,000 Coast Guard men and women at 358 units from Alaska to the Middle East to the South Pacific, as well as acting as a distress notification center and providing weather warnings and safety information to commercial and recreational vessels. At one point it had up to 183 employees, who generally lived in the former Coast Guard housing site in downtown Point Reyes. CAMSPAC, and all the communication stations, have been critical to the function of the Coast Guard. “You can’t operate if you can’t communicate,” Mr. Ray said, calling CAMSPAC a “lifeline” that has helped those in distress at sea. He told the story of a vessel named True Love that attempted to travel from Hawaii to Washington State in 1997. It encountered a bad storm, lost its drive shaft, and started to run out of food, water and ideas. The crew tried one last time to radio for help, and a 19-year-old crewman at CAMSPAC responded. “They lived because of this place,” Mr. Ray said. But changing technology, particularly the emergence of satellite communications, has made operating numerous stations unnecessary. Consequently the Coast Guard has been consolidating its communications sites for a few decades. In 1993, CAMSPAC took over operations once routed through Guam, and in 1997 it began remotely operating a station located in Honolulu. Now CAMSPAC—along with other stations in Boston, Miami, New Orleans, Honolulu and Chesapeake—will be remotely operated from a single station, eliminating about 200 full time jobs and saving the agency about $10 million a year. The guard has, however, established a small detachment in Novato to maintain the electronics at the decommissioned CAMSPAC facility, a Coast Guard report said. Speakers on Friday noted that the decommissioning was a solemn occasion, but said it was all in the name of forward progress. “We will be vigilant,” Mr. Ray said, “just from a different place.”

If you need any other proof that CAMSLANT is alive and well, here is the link to their website http://www.uscg.mil/lantarea/camslant/

CAMSLANT Chesapeake (USCG Photo)

 

USS Cleveland Decommissions After 44 Years of Service

By Electrician’s Mate Yasmine Muhammad, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Cleveland (LPD-7) was decommissioned Sept. 30 as Sailors, former crew members, family and friends gathered at Naval Base San Diego to celebrate the ship's 44 years of service.

Cleveland was commissioned April 21, 1967 in Norfolk, Va. The ship became a member of the Pacific Fleet's amphibious force when it transited to San Diego.

Less than six months after its arrival in, Cleveland sailed for its first Western Pacific deployment, deploying to the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam, where the ship saw its first action during the Tet Offensive.

Over its 44-year span, Cleveland deployed more than 20 times and participated in operations ranging from combat and disaster response to serving as a location for the movie Inchon which was filmed in 1978.

Cleveland concluded its life at sea with a four-and-a-half-month Pacific Partnership deployment to Southeast Asia and Oceania.

"It's an interesting moment because it brings a closure to Sailors who have served since the ship's commission", said Cmdr. Christopher Kipp, Cleveland's last commanding officer. "To be one of the last Sailors to serve on the ship is definitely something that's unique and will stay with me for a while."

Generations of Cleveland Sailors and Marines came together to say goodbye one last time.

"It's a cheerful goodbye to a beautiful ship", said Alexander Phillips, the first hospital corpsman assigned to Cleveland. "The ceremony was very emotional, especially seeing all the young Sailors carrying on the tradition that we started 44 years ago."

Cleveland will transit to Hawaii, where the ship will be in an inactive reserve status.

USS Memphis to Decommission

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The Navy will hold a decommissioning ceremony for Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Memphis (SSN 691) aboard Naval Submarine Base (NSB) New London, Conn., April 1.

All current and former crew members, their families, and friends are invited to attend activities connected to this historic event.

USS Memphis was commissioned Dec. 17, 1977, and became an Atlantic Fleet operational asset as part of Submarine Squadron 8 in Norfolk, Va., in 1978. Four years later, Memphis completed a "round-the-world" cruise via the Panama Canal, including operations with both the 6th and 7th fleets.

In January 1994, Memphis entered Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for refueling overhaul and equipment modifications, providing the world's most-advanced sonar, signal processing and fire control technology.

Several modifications were performed to enhance the ship's ability to accommodate major and multiple research and development projects. Upon completion of the overhaul in July 1996, Memphis was attached to Submarine Development Squadron 12 aboard NSB New London.

Fast-attack submarines like Memphis have multi-faceted missions. They use their stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.

USS Philadelphia 'Finishes Strong' Following 33-Year Service

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) was decommissioned June 25 during a ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn.

The decommissioning ceremony marked Philadelphia's 33rd anniversary.

Philadelphia was commissioned and officially put into service June 25, 1977.

The ceremony's guest speaker, Rear Admiral Douglas J. McAneny, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, was the seventh commanding officer of Philadelphia.

McAneny said he was honored to speak at the ceremony and to have the opportunity to have one last look at his old boat and eat one more meal in the wardroom.

"We gather today not only to recognize the important role played by the leaders, the crew members and the families," said McAneny. "But to say goodbye to our boat – USS Philadelphia."

In addition, McAneny asked those that have served aboard Philadelphia to remember the sacrifices they endured and the freedom they fought to defend.

"The soul of USS Philadelphia lives on forever in her crews," said McAneny.

Philadelphia has deployed to all regions of the globe in support of various operations vital to national security, including Desert Storm in 1991.

Cmdr. Dave Soldow, Philadelphia's final commanding officer, felt this ceremony marked a unique occasion.

"On one hand, it is truly heartwarming to see the enthusiastic support of the community for their Navy and the men who have volunteered to serve this great nation of ours," said Soldow. "On the other hand, it is indeed sad to take out of commission a warship that has so boldly and so proudly served the American people for all these years."

Soldow also said that the warship is much more than technology and steel.

"These men who stand before you today, and those seated throughout the audience who came before them represent some of the greatest American's to ever serve this nation of ours," said Soldow.

The contract to build Philadelphia was awarded to Electric Boat Division at the General Dynamics Corporation in Groton Jan. 8, 1971. Philadelphia's keel was laid Aug. 12, 1972, and was launched Oct. 19, 1974.

Philadelphia completed her final deployment in February 2010, conducting operations in the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility.

USS Nashville (LPD 13) is decommissioned.

It is a sad day. The USS Nashville LPD-13 has been decommissioned. For more
click here for an USN video report.

It's tankers away at Grand Forks Air Force Base

The curtain begins to come down on an era next week at the Grand Forks, N.D., Air Force Base when the remaining refueling tankers begin departing.

Having reinvented itself repeatedly since the end of the Cold War, the base will by next year be home only to unmanned aerial drones that will patrol the northern border.

The Air Force announced this week that the 912th Air Refueling Squadron will be deactivated March 20. The last KC-135 tanker will have left the base four days earlier.

See the complete story at
http://www.startribune.com/local/41019307.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUncacyi8cyaiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

USS Kitty Hawk Decommissioned

The USS Kitty Hawk is decommissioned after nearly 50 years of service. I have found memories and pictures of following the USS Kitty Hawk during my first bWestPac cruise for 9 months. Taught us an interesting lesson about fishing one of her pilots out of the water when he had to punch out.

Farewell old friend.

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) decommissions

The USS Tarawa (LHA 1) decommissions. Get a full video report from the US Navy Daily News Brief. Click here for this video report.

Fleet Composite Squadron 6 Deactivates

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Coleman Thompson, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Fleet Composite Squadron (VC) 6 was deactivated Aug. 7, in a ceremony held on Naval Station Norfolk.

Established in 1952 as Utility Squadron 6, VC-6 was originally designed to provide aerial target services for U.S. Naval forces in the Atlantic Ocean. After changing their name, the Firebees of VC-6 expanded their mission to include providing airborne reconnaissance and real-world threat simulations.

In 1958, VC-6 established a detachment in Dam Neck, Va., to provide surface and aerial target services for the Dam Neck Gunnery School, specializing in the BQM-74E Aerial Target Drone. Another detachment was later created in Patuxent River, Md., in 1986, to develop an experimental Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system. This later developed into the Pioneer UAV system, the nation's only 'forward from the sea' UAV.

"I'm sad to see it go, but the members of VC-6 are going to move on and continue to support the fleet," said Personnel Specialist Seaman Paul Richards. "I'll be taking the VC-6 pride and dedication to all my commands in the future."

"It is all about the people, the relationships you make, the spirit and camaraderie," said Cmdr. Gary Deal, VC-6 commanding officer. "That type of spirit is not just going to affect my Navy career, it's going to affect my life."

VC-6 provided support in the Persian Gulf for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and their UAV detachments supported combat operations in Kosovo and Iraq. The squadron also supported the war on terrorism.

"The squadron has a tremendous legacy of operational accomplishments which are inspiring," said Deal.

The ceremony celebrated the various accomplishments of the squadron and highlighted the Firebees' history of providing quality service to the fleet.

'Mission Complete' 19th Air Refueling Group mission ends at Robins

by Amanda Creel
78th ABW/PA

5/30/2008 - Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- When it comes to stories, few units can beat the arsenal of tales associated with the 19th Air Refueling Group.

The group's legacy provides an endless supply of sagas as the unit has recorded each chapter in its 80 year history.

On May 28, the Black Knights recorded the end to its many chapters of service during the group's 40-year residence here.

The unit has served in every major conflict since its inception Oct. 18, 1927, and has been designated as an observation, bombardment and refueling unit.

The "bittersweet end" was celebrated during a mission complete ceremony, where past and present members, community champions and family and friends of the unit gathered to say farewell.

As the Black Knights turn the page and its time at Robins comes to a close, the unit is comforted knowing the unit's designation will continue to make history with its new airlift mission.

The group starts its fourth chapter Oct. 1 as part of the newly designated 19th Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base.

Maj. Gen. James Hawkins,18th Air Force commander, said the Black Knights would continue to be invaluable in the war on terrorism as its mission transforms from supplying the warfighter with fuel in the air to supplying Airmen, Marines and Soldiers on the ground with the materials needed to continue the fight.

"This is not the night the lights went out in Georgia," he said.

Instead, he said the 80 years of heritage would serve as a foundation for the 19th Airlift Wing.

"Your flag will continue to play a vital role in our mission as we continue to fight the war on terrorism," General Hawkins said.

Colonel Chris Bence, 19th ARG commander, credited the diligence of the Black Knights in continuing to complete its mission in the wake of impending closure for helping make the Air Force's decision to not fold the group's flag an easy one.

"It's a true testament to the proud heritage and all the men and women of the 19th," Colonel Bence said.

He said Black Knight pride is unwavering. As the group prepared for its deactivation, the group earned numerous honors, including the Air Force Meritorious Unit Award, which was formally presented by General Hawkins, and its eighth consecutive Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

"You are the most decorated unit in Air Mobility Command and the 18th Air Force, and that is why your flag is going to continue to fly proudly," General Hawkins said.

He added the group had lived up to its maxim "In Alis Vincimus," which means "on wings we conquer," throughout its history.

General Hawkins noted many of the unit's accomplishments, including being in the air within five hours of the attacks on Sept.11 providing homeland defense, and its service during World War II where the 19th Bombardment Group earned the honor of flying the last conventional bombing mission of the war.

Colonel Bence said the many decorations received during the past two years made it evident the group's story could not end.

Colonel Bence was also awarded the Legion of Merit Award for his service as commander and his recent deployment to the area of responsibility where he served as U.S. Central Command Combined Air Operations Center deputy commander of mobility.

He said he humbly accepted the honor because he knows without the support of his fellow Black Knights and his family, he would not have been selected for this honor.

"It truly is a team effort. I was just the one fortunate enough to be 'out front,'" he said.

General Hawkins said Colonel Bence's and his family's footprints were evident throughout the Robins community.

After the ceremony, the group's flags flew away with Cherokee Rose, the group's flagship aircraft, where they were returned to AMC at Scott Air Force Base for safe keeping.

Cherokee Rose's departure was meant to signal the conclusion of the ceremony; however the bad weather delayed its departure until 3:45 p.m.

Members of the unit all agreed the thunder, lightning and rain were a message from God that he too couldn't bear to see the unit's tenure at Robins come to an end.

It was fitting a former Black Knight, Maj. Gen. Fred Roggero, AMC Air, Space and Information Operations director, was behind the controls as Cherokee Rose made her symbolic exit. He served with the unit from 1978 to 1982.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be able to fly the aircraft out, although I know it's a sad day for the 19th and for Middle Georgia area," he said.

Instead of the ceremony ending with Cherokee Rose flying away, it ended in "true Black Knight fashion" as the men and women of the 19th bellowed its chant: "Black Knights, Out Front; Black Knights, Out Front; Black Knights, Out Front."

USS Augusta Arrives at NORVA

The nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Augusta (SSN 710) arrives at Naval Station Norfolk. Augusta is in Norfolk to continue the inactivation process that began on Feb. 7, 2008 in Groton, Conn. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kelvin Edwards

The Navy Bids Farewell to VS-31

An S-3B Viking, from the "Top Cats" of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 31, launches from the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is on a scheduled deployment to promote peace, regional cooperation and stability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul J. Perkins)
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toiete Jackson Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Southeast

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The Navy said farewell to the Topcats of Sea Control Squadron 31 (VS-31) in a disestablishment ceremony held March 27, aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville.

The Topcats, assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, ended 60 years of distinguished service. The squadron was originally established during World War II from 1942 to 1945, and was recommissioned in April 1948.

Guest speaker, retired Navy captain and former commanding officer, William Carey said he was honored to speak at the ceremony.

"I'm here because I love being part of the Topcat world and history," said Carey. "If you look in the audience today and if you think back through the years, the history and accomplishments of this fine squadron are really mind-boggling."

Carey went on to highlight some impressive accomplishments of the squadron and many of it's achievements. He also spoke of the high level of proficiency and professionalism of the Sailors. "They make me want to suit up again," said Carey.

"In 1940 VS-31 became the first Atlantic Fleet VS squadron, one of many firsts that this squadron has realized. This squadron has supported many foreign policy decisions and many crises," continued Carey. "They supported the Suez Canal Crisis and they were the first squadron to deploy and arrive on station to support Operation Desert Shield, literally within days of the invasion of Kuwait. And on 9/11, this squadron simultaneously deployed to two different aircraft carriers."

Also giving praises to the squadron during the ceremony was Capt. Sterling Gilliam, commander, CVW-9. "I am honored and fortunate to be associated with some tremendous S-3 squadrons, but none of them have come close to the sustained operational achievements of VS-31."

He also presented VS-31's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Muhammad Khan with the Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding meritorious service to the squadron.

Khan then took the podium to thank former Topcats and guests for attending the ceremony and gave accolades to the remaining third of his squadron.

"I have been living the dream for the past year," stated Khan. "For a kid growing up in Pakistan, we heard about the capabilities of the U.S. military and we were in absolute awe, and then we would hear about the U.S. Navy in the Indian Ocean, and sometimes see the aircraft carriers conducting flight operations; I was so impressed. But never in my wildest dreams would I imagine that I'd be commanding a U.S. Navy squadron. As a new recruit, I didn't think that it was possible. But only in this great Navy, can an immigrant reach as high as the goal he sets for himself. This is truly the land of opportunity."

The ceremony closed with reading of "The Watch" and the stand-down of the squadron's last S-3B Viking aircraft.

VS-31 Sailors, past and present, have proudly served the Jacksonville area since 1973. Previously located at NAS Quonset Point, R.I., the squadron moved to NAS Cecil Field, Fla., and eventually to its current home base of NAS Jacksonville. In August 2007, VS-31 returned from its last deployment in the Persian Gulf aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

The S-3B aircraft is being phased out and it's roles are being assumed by existing helicopter and super hornet squadrons.

The Sailors and officers of the community will transition to different communities and platforms, and are able to maintain their same career path. The squadron will exists on paper until the last Sailor checks out and moves on in late April 2008.

VS-31 was comprised of 190 members with aproximatley eight aircraft. All but one of their S-3B aircraft have been reassigned to other VS squadrons. The last remaining aircraft will be flown to Davis-Mothan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz. for preservation in the war-time ready reserve fleet.

USS Augusta Inactivated After 23 Years of Protecting the Frontier

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myer, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs



GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Augusta (SSN 710) conducted an inactivation ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base New London's Shepherd of the Sea chapel Feb. 7.

Augusta lived up to its motto, "protecting the frontier" for more than two decades. Most recently, she returned from a six-month deployment to the U.S. European Command's area of responsibility September 2007, where she completed a wide range of joint requirements supporting national security.

Retired Capt. Thomas Turner, Augusta's first commanding officer, was the guest speaker and relived his experience in bringing the ship to life.

"The feeling as the crew ran aboard at the commissioning was incredible," said Turner. "The crew is what makes the ship a ship. Everything else is just an empty hull."

Cmdr. Chad Brown, Augusta's current commanding officer, expressed his feelings regarding the decommissioning.

"Augusta will not be forgotten," said Brown. "The tradition and spirit of excellence will live on in the Sailors who proudly served aboard her."

Numerous plank owners and Augusta Alumni Association members attended the ceremony. The alumni association plans on forming a nonprofit organization to promote the purchase of Augusta's sail as a memorial for the state of Maine.

"I feel blessed to have been an Augusta crew member," said Malcolm Milligan, alumni association founder. "Our experiences as crew members give us a lot in common and many stories to share and we wish to share those experiences with the residents of Maine."

Augusta is the fifth ship of the fleet to bear the name Augusta, and the first to be named for the capital of the great state of Maine. Others include a 14-gun brigantine commissioned in 1799; a side wheel steamer that participated in the Union forces capture of Port Royal, N.C. in 1861; a motor patrol boat used for maritime patrol of the U.S. coast in World War I; and a heavy cruiser commissioned in 1931 and built specifically as a command ship.

Augusta will transit to Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va. later this month to commence its inactivation process.

With stealth, persistence, agility and firepower, fast-attack submarines like Augusta are multi-mission capable – able to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity and ensure undersea superiority.

522FS makes final flight before inactivation

by Airman 1st Class Thomas Trower, 27th Special Operation Wing Public Affairs

The final 522nd Fighter Squadron jet makes its flight over Cannon Dec. 21. The 522FS was the final F-16 fighter squadron to inactivate at Cannon after a decision from the Base Realignment and Closure Commision forced the base to find a new mission. As a result, Air Force Special Operations Command took control of Cannon and their first squadron, the 73rd Special Operations Squadron, is in place now. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Erik Cardenas)

The 522nd Fighter Squadron encased its colors, in preparation of storing the squadron legacy until it is again needed by the Air Force, Dec. 21 in Hangar 208 after its final passes over Cannon Air Force Base, N.M.

The 522FS was the only remaining F-16 fighter squadron remaining at Cannon since the Base Realignment and Closure Commission deemed that the base needed to find a new mission. The 523rd Fighter Squadron and the 524th Fighter Squadron inactivated earlier this year.

The squadron's motto of "First in, Last out" was fitting to the squadron, said Col. Tod Fingal, the 522FS commander who relinquished command in the ceremony. The unit was the first to call Cannon home and was the last fighter squadron to depart, he said.

The 522FS, known as the Fireballs, has been in service for the Air Force in some form for the past 67 years, 48 of those were here at Cannon. The unit served in World War II where it was the only unit in Air Force history to fight as an infantry unit, they fought until they were captured and forced to walk in the Battan Death March. The squadron also saw service in Korea, Japan, Operations SOUTHERN WATCH and NOBLE EAGLE, and most recently in Guam.

The final pilot to fly a sortie in the name of the 522FS was Maj. Bob Battema. He said that at its prime, the 522FS had about 21 aircraft, 30-40 pilots and 350 maintainers worked together to keep the squadron flying.

At the time of the inactivation, there were six aircraft at Cannon and 12 pilots, said Major Battema, 522FS director of operations.

"This is not bitter sweet at all," said the major. "This is a great moment. The Fireballs have a great history and this is a great opportunity."

Cannon is now under command of Air Force Special Operations Command and their first squadron, the 73rd Special Operations Squadron, is set to be in place by February. Following the 73SOS, which will fly the MC-130W Combat Spear, the 3rd Special Operations Squadron will move to Cannon to begin flying the MQ-1 Predator.

Final Four MHCs Decommission

By Fifi Kieschnick, Naval Station Ingleside Public Affairs

USS Skrike (MHC-62)

INGLESIDE, Texas (NNS) -- A lone bugler played as Union Jacks and national ensigns were lowered marking the end of service for the final four Osprey-class coastal mine hunters.

USS Kingfisher (MHC 56), USS Cormorant (MHC 57), USS Blackhawk (MHC 58) and USS Shrike (MHC 62) were decommissioned Dec. 1, during a ceremony aboard Naval Station Ingleside, Texas.

"Just as a commissioning signals a bright future," said Lt. Cmdr. Andrew Carlson, commanding officer of MHC Crew Endurance embarked in Cormorant, "a decommissioning marks the end of an era."

The ceremony also marked the date the ships' names would be struck from the registry of active Navy ships. And, their ensigns would fly no more, stated Rear Adm. John Christenson, commander, Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command, Corpus Christi.

"This is why we gather together today," Christenson added, "to honor the coastal mine hunter and her crews, who have paved the way for the next generation of war fighters."

The Osprey-class ships are the world's largest glass reinforced plastic ships and the first U.S. Navy ships designed solely for minehunting, the technique of locating mines with sonar and neutralizing them with a remotely controlled underwater vehicle.

These ships' mission is to clear harbors, coastal and ocean waters of acoustic, magnetic, pressure, and contact type mines, using reconnaissance, classification and neutralization tactics. The ships' design integrates mine countermeasures technology into a uniquely designed platform with exceptionally low magnetic and acoustic signatures to protect again mine detonations during minehunting operations.

These are the final four of the 12 Osprey-class ships to be decommissioned.

Following the ceremonies, these vessels will complete decommissioning maintenance availabilities, and then be towed to Beaumont, Texas.

Black Stallions Disestablish After 24 Years

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Riza Caparros, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Atlantic

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The “Black Stallions” of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 4 officially disestablished Sept. 28 after 24 years of service during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk.

Acting Command Master Chief (AW) Barry Rice spoke about the pride he felt for the squadron and their contribution to the Navy.

“It’s been an honor and privilege to be a part of the Navy’s premier airlift squadron,” said Rice. “This squadron has served the Navy well and we did it with pride and great success.”

HC-4 was stationed in Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Italy for 23 years where they provided heavy lift combat support for units serving in the 5th and 6th fleets' areas of responsibility.

“We stood up much faster than a typical Navy squadron,” said retired Capt. James F. Scurria, HC-4’s second commanding officer. “Just seven months from initial establishment we were in combat operations in Beirut.”

“The squadron’s tenaciousness to get the job done and serve the country is what I will always remember,” he continued. “I would say my time at the Black Stallions was the highlight of my navy career.”

For the past year, the Black Stallions provided heavy lift combat support for the U.S. 3rd Army in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“The squadron’s final missions ran out of Kuwait to run into Iraq transporting troops with their packs and some supplies for the U.S. 3rd Army,” continued Rice. “We left there knowing we did a job well done.”

Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class (AW/NAC) Carl Stewart, who first joined the squadron in 1999, also expressed pride for his time as a Black Stallion.

“Being a part of the Black Stallions gave me a sense of pride to stand out because of our unique job within the air community,” said Stewart. “Wherever my Navy career takes me from here on out, I will always be proud to say I was a part of their legacy.”

Since their commissioning, the Black Stallions of HC-4 have received numerous personal and unit awards, including two European Region National Defense Transportation Association awards, three Golden Anchors and one Silver Anchor award for retention, five Navy Unit commendations, three Meritorious Unit Commendations, three Navy Battle "E" Efficiency awards, a Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Secretary of Defense Maintenance Award.

“Over the years the squadron developed and grew to become a national asset,” added Scurria. “I underscore the fact that the key to HC-4’s success was always based on the phenomenal quality of people who served in the squadron.”

“The squadron has been given many opportunities to succeed and our service to the Navy has been impressive,” said Cmdr. Robert H. Buckingham, commanding officer. “The awards speak for themselves.”

The squadron held a final landing ceremony June 26 at Naval Station Norfolk’s Chamber field. HC-4’s last “Sea Dragon” will be reassigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14 in Norfolk.

Naval Station Norfolk Bids Farewell to USS Shreveport

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin L. Burleson, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The amphibious transport dock USS Shreveport (LPD 12) was decommissioned during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 26.

Guest speaker Capt. Peter Fanta, commander, Amphibious Squadron 2, expressed his pride in the long tradition of excellence of the ship and its crew, past and present.

“The Shreveport has been through every armed conflict since the 1960’s, 24 commanding officers, seven presidents, and 12 theaters of operations,” said Fanta.

Shreveport was a significant help to Louisiana during Hurricane Katrina, bringing in the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, who supported the search for survivors, and aided with casualties, during the disaster. Sailors also did their part in helping clean up the St. Bernard Parish.

Some of the Shreveport’s Sailors had mixed feelings about the decommissioning.

“I had fun here, and it was an honor to serve on board, but it’s sad since it was my first duty station,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class (SW) Ricky Martinez.

The Shreveport has also maintained a history of earning awards through the years. In 1982, she earned the Navy Unit Commendation and the Navy Expeditionary Medal for spending four months off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon. In 1984, she received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for clearing mines in the Red Sea as part of Operation Intense Look. From 1990 to 1991 the Shreveport earned the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy for Operational Readiness for her role in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

“It’s sad to see her go. I’m just glad I was able to be a part in the beginning and in the end,” said Norman Allen, who was an Airman Apprentice on board when the Shreveport was commissioned.

USNS Apache (T-ATF 172) will tow the Shreveport to Philadelphia, where the ship will become part of the inactive fleet, and reused for spare parts for other ships.

“Top Cats” Approach Pacific Sundown

An S-3B Viking, attached the "Top Cats" of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 31, lands on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jon Hyde

By Lt. Blackford Huntington, Sea Control Squadron 31 Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- The “Top Cats” of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 31 are nearing the end of the S-3 Viking community’s final deployment to the Western Pacific aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

While VS-31 is conducting their sundown cruise embarked on Stennis as part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, the "Top Cats" continue to support ground forces in Afghanistan and Iraq conducting maritime security operations. By providing surface surveillance, reconnaissance and in-flight refueling to other aircraft, the "Top Cats" are invaluable to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).

Prior to deploying aboard Stennis, VS-31 flew cross-country to embark the West Coast-based carrier for the squadron’s farewell deployment, and last S-3 Viking deployment to the Pacific.

“It is a great opportunity to be part of the final western Pacific deployment,” said Lt. John Kovalsky. “The entire squadron is proactive and focused on keeping our jets flying safe and making this deployment the best one to date.”

Stennis and CVW-9 entered the 5th Fleet AOO on Feb. 19 and have been conducting missions in support of coalition forces operating on the ground in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

“Of course we miss our children, our wives, and the pleasures of home,” said Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Levitt. “However, to be flying over Iraq one day, providing late night tanker support the next, we are certainly keeping ourselves busy."

From the "Top Cat’s" home away from home, ready room 7, Levitt spoke about the positive morale of the squadron and its flexibility and professionalism over the past five months.

“Couple that with the outstanding advancement and reenlistment rate of the Sailors within our squadron, I’d say that makes for a cruise with accolades that cannot be challenged,” he said.

Several "Top Cats" are also chasing many career milestones this deployment. VS-31’s Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Mohammad Khan is 40 arrested landings away from reaching 1,000 and Lt. Robert Chandler is close to 1,000 hours in the S-3 Viking, a rare feat among junior officers.

Four S-3 Viking squadrons remain, all based in Jacksonville, Fla. One squadron is set to retire this spring, followed by VS-31 in March 2008, a third later in 2008, and the final squadron bidding adieu in early part of 2009.

JFK Departs Mayport on Last Journey

Decommissioned aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy (CV 67) departs Naval Station Mayport en route to Norfolk, Va. Homeported at Naval Station Mayport since 1995, the ship will be towed to Hampton Roads until the ship can be transferred to the Navy Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility in Philadelphia. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tommy Gilligan.

'Mission accomplished' for NRO at Onizuka AFS

by Capt. Tony Muro, Operating Division 4 Detachment 1

4/23/2007 - ONIZUKA AIR FORCE STATION, Calif. -- The National Reconnaissance Office's mission here ended recently after 46 years of service to the nation.

Dr. Donald Kerr, director of the NRO in Washington, D.C., presided over a deactivation ceremony in March wherein he thanked the men and women of the Blue Cube here for their dedicated service.

More than 800 guests attended the ceremony and open house, including Lt. Gen. Frank Klotz, vice commander of Air Force Space Command; Brig. Gen. Larry James, director of the Signal Intelligence Systems Acquisitions and Operations Directorate; and former NRO Director Jeff Harris.

The ceremony reflected upon the rich history and many contributions that the Onizuka facility has made to the nation's space reconnaissance efforts. The division's story dates back to the late 1950s and the beginning of Soviet and American efforts in space.

The space race began with the launch of Sputnik in 1957, after which a small plot of land in Sunnyvale, Calif., became the hub of space reconnaissance. At its peak in 1993, the Blue Cube housed more than 1,200 people and provided communications and infrastructure support to a wide variety of organizations.

Onizuka AFS holds a legendary history of firsts that helped the NRO become the leading-edge organization it is today, Dr. Kerr said. Throughout the years, the facility has been a critical node in space operations and has led the way during the nation's first steps in groundbreaking reconnaissance from space.

At the dawn of imagery intelligence from space, Onizuka AFS was the birthplace of the Corona program, the world's first photo reconnaissance satellite. Included in this program was the first mapping of Earth from space, the first midair recovery of a vehicle returning from space and the first views of denied areas from space.

Dr. Kerr honored the men and women of Onizuka for their dedication to establishing the NRO, as well as for being the cornerstone in the nation's security from space. He thanked them for their tenacity in protecting freedom and for ensuring the United States always held the ultimate high ground.