The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) operates at sea as an SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Dragonslayers of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 11 conducts plane guard patrols. Enterprise is conducting fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications in preparation for work-ups leading to the ship's 21st deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brooks B. Patton/Released)By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jared Walker, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) returned to its home port after successfully completing multiple missions in support of Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRSCQ) and engineering drills July 23, which helped the crew train for future certifications.
The "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 completed 420 launches and arrested landings aboard the Navy's oldest, longest and fastest aircraft carrier which provided the pilots and crew important at-sea operational training.
"Everyone did exceptionally well. The crew on the flight deck demonstrated unmatched motivation and dedication," said the Air Operations Officer Cmdr. Charles A. Broomfield. "We set a one-day record of 172 traps and launches this underway, the most we have achieved in one day since we left the shipyard."
The Sailors aboard Big E also ran multiple, complex drill scenarios which tested the crew's ability to rapidly react to a wide variety of emergent situations on the ship.
Two general quarters drills tested every Sailor's ability to quickly muster in their assigned repair lockers and set material condition Zebra throughout the ship.
A second drill, required the entire crew to react to a chemical, biological and radiological attack to the warship. This drill requires Sailors to don special protective clothing to avoid unnecessary exposure while investigating the threat to the ship.
The Security division conducted several drills to simulate terrorist attacks aboard the ship. These drills required all hands to stand fast and remain vigilant as the primary reaction force swept the ship and apprehended an intruder.
The Security division and Weapons department also conducted small arms qualifications for the newest members of the ship's self defense force.
The ship's Deck department and bridge watch teams successfully completed two separate precision anchorage exercises which require the teams to anchor the ship in a predetermined location.
The ship and its crew of approximately 3,100 Sailors return to Norfolk for a short time to bring Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 aboard before departing for future operations.
Enterprise is in preparing for work-ups leading to its 21st deployment.