Four U.S. Ships to Participate in Phoenix Express 08

Four U.S. Navy ships will participate in Phoenix Express 2008 (PE 08), a U.S.-hosted, multinational exercise designed to strengthen regional maritime partnerships and foster the ability to operate jointly, from April 8-22.

Two ships from the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group, the USS Nassau (LHA 4) and the USS Nashville (LPD 13); along with the USS John L. Hall (FFG 32) and USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) will represent the United States in this two-week exercise. Twelve other nations were also invited to participate or send representatives, to include Spain, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, Italy, France, Malta, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania and Libya.

"Phoenix Express 2008 aims to improve maritime security in the Mediterranean Sea through increased interoperability and cooperation among regional allies from the United States, Africa and Europe," said Capt. Robert G. Lineberry, commander, Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group.

A comprehensive and robust training agenda will provide participants with numerous opportunities to operate together and develop productive relationships. Exercises like PE 08 enable participants to advance information sharing which is crucial to maintaining a region free from transnational threats, as well as enhance capability to conduct multinational peacekeeping missions.

PE 08 is comprised of two large phases, inport and at sea. The exercise will include communications, maritime interdiction operations (MIO), search-and-rescue operations (SAR), division tactics, medical training and ashore maritime coordination.

Inport events, hosted at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Crete, will focus on medical training, MIO training and combined Maritime Forces will conduct workshops in helicopter operations and safety, damage control and firefighting, navigation, deck seamanship, SAR, small boat operations and a leadership round table.

Underway events will focus on maritime domain awareness (MDA) and the automatic identification system (AIS) including interaction between forces afloat and a maritime operations center ashore. Combined Maritime Forces will also conduct serials in force protection, MIO, SAR, RAS, towing and helicopter operations.

"PE 08 demonstrates U.S. and partner nations' commitment to regional stability and maritime security. This exercise will allow all participants to become more familiar and continue to build our partnerships," said Lineberry.

PE 08 is the third annual exercise in a long-term effort to improve regional cooperation and maritime security.

USS La Jolla departs for Western Pacific

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Cynthia Clark, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs


USS La Jolla (SSN 762) departed Pearl Harbor Naval Station for a scheduled Western Pacific deployment, April 3.

Cmdr. Doug Sampson, USS La Jolla commanding officer, said his crew is very excited about the deployment.

"This is what we get paid to do," he said. "Everybody's been looking forward to it for months."

La Jolla is heading to the Western Pacific, where, according to Sampson, they will be conducting many exercises with foreign navies as well being available for any tasking which comes down from the Commander, 7th Fleet.

"The opportunity to interact with other navies and other armed forces is always very interesting," he said. "The guys enjoy talking to their foreign counterparts, not only on the shore but on the radios too. The exercises also come with the traditional port calls the Sailors are very excited about as well."

Ronald Reagan Strike Group Returns Following Successful COMPTUEX

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, cross San Diego Harbor to return to homeport at Naval Air Station North Island after successfully completing composite training unit exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Spike Call (Released)

The officers and crew of USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 7, and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 returned to San Diego April 7, following completion of the ship's Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) that took place off the coast of Southern California.

Ronald Reagan, CCSG 7 and CVW-14 commenced the 22-day exercise March 17 shortly after departing the carrier's homeport of San Diego.

Rear Adm. James P. "Phil" Wisecup, commander, Carrier Strike Group 7, said he was impressed with the way the different components of the strike group worked together to conduct operations during COMPTUEX.

"I couldn't be happier with how the team is coming together," said Wisecup. "We're training hard to protect the freedom of the seas, deter our adversaries, and, if deterrence fails, take action in support of our nation's interests—all key elements of our Maritime Strategy."

COMPTUEX is an exercise designed to train embarked staffs, ships, and air wing that make up the carrier strike group to function as one highly effective fighting force. The exercise consists of two distinct phases and was evaluated by Commander, Strike Force Training, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Phase I of COMPTUEX included a detailed schedule of events (SOE) designed to provide specific task training and evaluation for the carrier strike group and warfare commanders. Phase II, also known as the final battle problem, consisted of a real-world type exercise with no pre-planned SOE.

Wisecup added, "We're not done yet. We still have another phase of tough operations to get us ready for deployment."

Capt. Terry B. Kraft, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer said he was also impressed with the working cohesiveness exhibited by Sailors assigned to the ship, air wing and embarked staffs.

"This exercise stressed our ship-airwing team in every warfare area," said Kraft. "I'm extremely proud of the effort and obvious results during this exercise. All hands performed superbly."

USS Peleliu Completes COMPTUEX in Preparation for Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Walter Shannon, USS Peleliu Public Affairs


USS PELELIU, Pacific Ocean (NNS) -- Commander, Amphibious Squadron 3 (CPR-3), USS Peleliu (LHA 5) and the other ships of Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group completed Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) March 28.

The exercise, performed from March 12 through March 28, was an integrated training exercise that tested different warfare aspects of the strike group's forces.

"It takes a list of tasks called the Navy Mission Essential Tasks List, which are a list of evaluated competencies which strike groups are supposed to possess and you test that in an integrated warfare environment," said Ensign Pete Wengel, CPR-3 assistant staff intelligence officer.

"This exercise aims at certification to ensure that the strike groups that are deploying can accomplish the missions that they may need to perform while deployed," Wengel said. "However, the ships are not all doing the same thing because different ships in the strike group have different capabilities, so they are tested on what their capabilities are."

Peleliu succeeded in demonstrating many different tasks, including safe flight operations, counter-targeting, as well as operating in numerous defensive formations.

"There were activities going on 24-hours a day," said Wengel. "We had to be flexible and account for what the strike group had planned."

The environment created by the exercise was meant to reflect what could be expected during the actual deployment.

Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Rodney Boyd said the exercise allowed the chance to see Peleliu operate in a stressful environment.

"We want the exercise to be challenging to our analysts and other departments because in the region we're deploying, the environment will be somewhat stressful so we want a lot of challenges," Boyd said.

This was Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 3rd Class Nicholas Schmidt's first COMPTUEX.

"There were times where the normal collections methods we used were purposely cut out to make you think outside of your comfort zone, to make you come up with new ideas on how to get the information you need and what other options you have," he said.

USS Enterprise unreps with the USNS Supply

Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducts an underway replenishment with Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) while guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) and guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69) follow. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor)

Nassau Strike Group Conducts VBSS training

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver, Nassau Strike Group Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Nassau Strike Group’s (NASSG) visit, boarding, search and seizure (VBSS) teams participated in practice scenarios Sept. 25-27 as part of its Expeditionary Strike Group Integration (ESGINT) Exercise in preparation for its regularly scheduled deployment next year.

NASSG’s VBSS units included teams from USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Ashland (LHD 48), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Ross (DDG 71). They all participated in the exercises to strengthen team building skills while working towards the VBSS teams’ overall goal of ensuring safety of the waterways by preventing piracy, the transportation of illegal goods and terrorism.

“Maritime interdiction operations are a primary mission for every strike group that goes overseas,” said Fire Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Jeff Lewetski, Aegis technician on board Bulkeley and member of the her VBSS team. “As a team, it is our job to conduct these boardings to carry out that mission. While on deployment we get off the ship and search any and every suspicious boat we can find. Doing this not only cuts down on terrorist activity that may take place, but also provides a safer environment for the fisherman that are out there trying to make a living.”

There are four VBSS threat levels. Levels 1 and 2 are low-threat situations, while a VBSS Level 3 involves non-compliance after an official request to inspect a ship in sovereign waters. Level 4 would involve overt armed resistance. Lewetski explained that Bulkeley’s team executed two VBSS exercises, one of which was a non-compliant boarding.

“As a sweep/security team member, I and the rest of the team are responsible for verifying the number of crew members on board and sweeping the ship for any type of cargo that may be unsafe or unauthorized,” Lewetski explained.

In order to conduct realistic training scenarios, the NASSG employs the services of Training Support Vessel Prevail (TSV-1), a 224-foot ship used to replicate a suspicious vessel for the VBSS teams. Once Prevail has been identified as "suspicious," teams then replicate their boarding, search and seizure procedures in order to hone their skills in a safe and life-like environment.

“The (strike group) has definitely benefited from using Prevail as a training platform during ESGINT,” said Lt.j.g. Reynel Saa, Nassau Strike Group VBSS officer. “It’s been a great opportunity to work out some kinks, sharpen our skills and prepare for the upcoming deployment.”

According to Lewetski, there are many benefits and advantages as to why these exercises are important to both the mission and readiness of the strike group.

“Every mock boarding we do together as a team builds our ability to conduct efficient and safe boardings,” he explained. “When we are in theater, on an unfamiliar boat, we don’t have time to stop and think. Once we get on board everything needs to get done as fast and as safely as possible. The more we practice the easier that will be.”

VBSS Sailors face many different challenges, obstacles and risks when conducting each and every mission, to include the chances of being attacked, experiencing rebellion and even suffering a casualty.

“It’s definitely a dangerous evolution but these guys receive the proper training and with that training they should be able to respond to any threat,” said Saa.

The ability to perform VBSS helps to set the conditions for security and stability in the foreign maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. It also assists in disrupting the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport hostile personnel, weapons or other material.

The next certification step for NASSG and the VBSS teams will occur during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in Nov., when each unit will have the responsibility of successfully completing a boarding order outlining a particular VBSS mission.

ESGINT is the second of three pre-deployment exercises designed to test the fundamental capabilities and shipboard interoperability between the NASSG and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) out of Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Currently preparing for its regularly scheduled 2008 deployment, the NASSG is made up of more than 5,000 Sailors and Marines, and projects sea power ashore by maintaining the capability of landing amphibious forces by helicopters, amphibious track vehicles, air cushion landing craft, and assault craft whenever and wherever the need arises.

Stennis and CVW-9 Return to San Diego

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Christopher Gethings, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

Guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54) transits with Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) prior to Stennis conducting an air power demonstration. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul J. Perkins)

The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG) returned to San Diego Aug. 27, marking the successful end of deployment for Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 and the guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54).

While deployed, JCSSG supported Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Iraqi Freedom (OIF), maritime security operations, coalition operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO), Expeditionary Strike Force training and most recently, Exercise Valiant Shield 2007.

JCSSG departed San Diego Jan. 20 and entered the 5th Fleet’s AOO one month later, where the strike group spent five months supporting OEF and OIF.

“The performance of the John C. Stennis Strike Group has been magnificent,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 3 Rear Adm. Kevin M. Quinn. “I couldn’t be more proud of them. Contributing to security and stability in the Middle East, as well as the Pacific is one of the most important missions of the United States Navy.”

Stennis, CVW-9 and the strike group supported combat operations over Afghanistan from the North Arabian Sea, and over Iraq from the Persian Gulf while in 5th Fleet. During OIF and OEF, CVW-9 flew approximately 8,000 sorties providing more than 22,000 flight hours, dropped more than 160 bombs and expended more than 11,000 rounds of ammunition during 82 strafing runs.

“The operations we did for our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, we did those in support of troops on the ground, troops in contact with enemy forces, and our aircraft came in and provided the support they needed, which in some cases was the difference between life and death for our troops,” added Quinn. “Through [CVW-9’s] precision bombing and their precision strafing in support of troops on the ground, they helped achieve our national objectives in that area and more importantly, they helped save the lives of our troops who were in direct contact with the enemy in Afghanistan.”

While supporting combat operations, CVW-9 conducted a variety of missions, including close-air support for troops in combat on the ground, command and control operations as well as surface search and surveillance, ensuring the safe operation of the strike group at sea.

“The missions we sent into Afghanistan and Iraq and the strong presence we established in the Persian Gulf made a very significant difference in providing security and stability to the entire region,” said Stennis’ Commanding Officer, Capt. Brad Johanson.

As a Combined Forces Air Component Command asset, CVW-9 integrated closely with multinational coalition forces to prevent and counter attacks. The carrier-based aircraft provided close air-power support and delivered ordnance on enemy positions designated by ground forces.

“CVW-9 provided a variety of efforts both kinetic and non-kinetic,” said Capt. Sterling Gilliam, commander, CVW-9. “We were tasked with close-air support, reconnaissance and other tactical missions while operating in support of OEF and OIF.”

Along with five months of combat operations in 5th Fleet, JCSSG also participated in a number of exercises during its deployment, such as a unique humanitarian relief exercise in the Persian Gulf, dual-carrier exercises with USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and Expeditionary Strike Force training with USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) while simultaneously providing close-air support to coalition ground forces in support of OEF and OIF.

“The support for the troops on the ground and in combat is by far the most significant thing we did,” Gilliam said. “But what I really am proud of, is that from the moment we pushed away from the pier, we took an aggressive operational mindset to make sure that we were combat ready and kept it until our mission was complete.”

Antietam served as the air defense commander for Stennis during JCSSG’s deployment.

“Antietam performed outstandingly across the board,” said Quinn. “She was right there with us in the North Arabian Sea when we were conducting strike operations into Afghanistan, literally saving the lives of our troops on the ground. She was with us when we transited the Straits of Hormuz and went up to the North Persian Gulf to conduct operations in support of our troops on the ground in Iraq. She also participated in several multinational exercises to develop the capabilities of those regional navies.”

After successfully completing operations in the 5th Fleet AOO July 11, JCSSG sailed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility where Sailors and Marines enjoyed port visits in Singapore and Hong Kong and participated in more than 20 community relations projects.

Following the visit to Hong Kong, JCSSG participated in exercise Valiant Shield 2007 off the coast of Guam from Aug. 7 to Aug. 14. The joint military exercise brought together more than 30 ships including the Kitty Hawk and Nimitz Carrier Strike Groups, 280 aircraft and more than 20,000 service members from the Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Valiant Shield tested the military’s ability to rapidly bring together joint forces in response to any regional contingency, demonstrating the United States’ commitment to ensuring peace and stability throughout the Asian-Pacific region.

Next on Stennis’ plate is a docked, planned, incremental availability period where it will go through about six months of maintenance and upgrades.

CVW-9 will also go through some changes before embarking Stennis again: Sea Control Squadron (VS) 31 will disestablish, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 will transition from the F/A-18C Hornet to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 8 will become Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, transitioning from the SH-60 Seahawk to the H-60S Knight Hawk, and CVW-9 will welcome Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, who fly the MH-60R helicopters.

Gilliam said the rest of the squadrons will take their lessons learned from this deployment and begin preparing for when CVW-9 embarks Stennis again next year during work-ups.

JCSSG includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), embarked CVW-9, Destroyer Squadron 21, the guided-missile cruiser Antietam, the guided-missile destroyers USS O’Kane (DDG 77), USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) and the fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10). More than 6,500 Sailors and Marines are assigned to JCSSG.

The squadrons of CVW-9 include: the “Black Knights” of VFA-154, “Blue Diamonds” of VFA-146, “Argonauts” of VFA-147, “Death Rattlers” of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 323, “Yellow Jackets” of Electronic Attack Squadron 138, “Golden Hawks” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 112, “Top Cats” of VS-31, “Eightballers” of HS-8 and “Providers” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30.

Photo Below: An F/A-18C Hornet, from the "Argonauts" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, breaks the sound barrier while making a high-speed pass close to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an air power demonstration. The air power demonstration showed the capability of Stennis and Carrier Air Wing 9 to service members' family and friends who were invited to get underway with the ship. Stennis is returning to the United States after a 7.5-month-long deployment promoting peace, regional cooperation and stability and supporting the global war on terrorism. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Reeves)

Stennis Announces Return to Bremerton

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) is scheduled to arrive in its homeport of Bremerton, Wash., Aug. 31, marking the ship’s return after being deployed for seven-and-a-half months.

While deployed, Stennis supported Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom; conducted maritime operations, coalition operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Expeditionary Strike Force (ESF) training; and most recently, participated in Exercise Valiant Shield 2007.

“The very presence of a nuclear aircraft carrier and the strike group that surrounds it, helped provide stability and security throughout the Middle East and Pacific regions,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 3, Rear Adm. Kevin M. Quinn. “It helped to dissuade and deter potential adversaries, and at the same time, helped to assure friendly countries in that region that we have the commitment and capability to maintain stability and security throughout the maritime environment; Stennis was the focal point of that.”

Stennis’ Commanding Officer, Capt. Brad Johanson expressed his pride in the ship’s impact on the mission while serving as the centerpiece of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG).

“We are proud of what we accomplished,” said Johanson. “The people I have the privilege to lead continually amaze me in their abilities and desires. I can honestly say I’m not too concerned about our younger generation after serving with great folks like these.”

JCSSG spent five months deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO. While there, Stennis and embarked Carrier Air Wing 9 flew more than 8,000 sorties providing more than 22,000 flight hours and dropping nearly 90,000 pounds of ordnance in support of coalition forces operating on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq.

"Throughout this deployment Stennis has set a new standard for the performance of carriers in a combat zone,” said Johanson. “The missions we sent into Afghanistan and Iraq and the strong presence we established in the Arabian Gulf made a very significant difference in providing security and stability to the entire region.”

The Arabian Gulf is a body of water more commonly known as the Persian Gulf.

“When I look back on this great adventure of ours, the thing I’m most proud of is the performance of our young Sailors and Marines,” said Quinn. “They’ve left the comforts of their homes; they’ve left their families; they’ve gone forward into the combat zone to fight for our country, and their performance in that combat zone has been outstanding.”

Nassau ESG Conducts Group Sail

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ardelle L. Purcell, USS Nassau Public Affairs

The Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) set sail Aug. 24 for their first at-sea group exercise, in preparation for next year’s six-month deployment.

Comprised of USS Nassau (LHA 4), USS Nashville (LPD 13) and USS Ashland (LSD 48), as well as the 24th Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the ESG’s group sail provides the opportunity for crews to focus on teamwork and communications that will prove to be vital to the mission success of their 2008 deployment.

“The group sail is designed to provide basic amphibious training to the Amphibious Readiness Group ships prior to forming up with the rest of the ESG,” said Capt. James R. Boorujy, commanding officer of Nassau. "It includes working with all types of landing craft in the Navy and Marine Corps inventory as well as becoming proficient in ship handling, communication and live-fire exercises."

The ESG concept centers on the combined flexibility and readiness of a Navy amphibious readiness group and a MEU, augmented by surface combatant ships and a fast-attack submarine, armed with expanded offensive and defensive warfare capabilities, by land with embarked Marines, and at sea. This exercise is designed to forge the strike group into a cohesive, fighting team and represents a critical step in the pre-deployment training cycle.

The 24th MEU’s goal for the ESG group sail is to conduct evolutions that they would execute during the upcoming deployment and real-world operations.

“This is a great opportunity for our Marines to get familiar with the ship and its capabilities,” said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony M. Bargallo, non-commissioned officer in charge of Combat Cargo. "It helps us identify and iron out kinks and combat any potential operational problems. It also allows the Navy and Marine Corps team to take any steps necessary for assuring a smooth deployment."

Once the group sail is complete, Nassau and the other ships in the ESG will continue on to the next step of their Integrated Readiness Cycle.

Nassau is assigned to Commander Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group. The six ships and 5,000 Sailors and Marines allow warfighting naval amphibious forces to operate with joint and combined forces for combatant commanders.

Reuben James Departs Pearl for WestPac

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael A. Lantron, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs
Friends and family gathered at the pier on Naval Station Pearl Harbor Aug. 24, to say goodbye to more than 240 Sailors of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate, USS Reuben James (FFG 37).

The ship departed its homeport for a deployment to the Western Pacific in support of the global war on terrorism.

"We are extremely excited about this deployment," said Cmdr. Rich Haidvogel, commanding officer of Reuben James. "We have been training for this and the crew is ready to complete the tasking of the mission."

For months prior to deploying, Sailors anxiously awaited the day they would get underway.

"We've been pumped up so much for the last couple of months, and we're ready to go," said Operational Specialist 3rd Class Jeremy Zimmer.

During a deployment, the Sailors must rely on each other more than a typical workplace, due to the close quarters that a Navy vessel provides.

"We come together more underway and go from being co-workers to more like a family because all we have is each other, said Zimmer.

Reuben James is a multi-mission platform designed to escort and protect carrier strike groups, expeditionary strike groups, underway replenishment groups and convoys, in addition to conducting anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.

USS George Washington Underway for Sea Trials

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tanner Lange, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS George Washington (GW) (CVN 73) left Norfolk Naval Shipyard on Aug. 27 and headed for sea trials.

Sea trials, which are expected to be completed later this week, are traditionally the final hurdle for a shipyard maintenance availability and are designed to assess GW’s material readiness and ability to rejoin the fleet as a fully operational unit.

Once complete, GW will return to the U.S. 2nd Fleet to commence final operational preparations to relieve USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier in Japan in 2008. The $300 million, 11-month Planned Incremental Availability plus Docking is expected to be completed on time and within budget.

”Sea trials are really the culmination of a lot of hard work. Norfolk Naval Shipyard and GW Sailors really came together as a team to produce an outstanding availability,” said GW Commanding Officer, Capt. Dave Dykhoff.

The availability was specifically designed to prepare the ship to become the Navy’s forward deployed aircraft carrier with numerous system upgrades. One specific accomplishment included the removal and replacement of the entire main mast and all associated radar and combat systems.

“The capstone mast upgrade improves the ship’s defensive capabilities and the reliability of associated systems,” said Combat Systems Officer, Cmdr. Mark Loose.

While the scheduled trials are expected to tax every Sailor and system on the ship to ensure full capability, the transition from shipyard to sea is a welcome one.

“Everyone involved is extremely proud to clear this hurdle and get these tests underway,” said Dykhoff. “Our transition to Japan is very important to our nation’s security, and we have worked very hard to keep that transition on track.”

Navy Says Farewell to Last Sea King

Photo: MH-60 Seahawk helicopters fly in formation with an H-3 Sea King assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight Five (HSC-85) during a ceremonial flight honoring more than 40 years of service by the H-3 Sea King. Sea King is being replaced by the SH-60 Seahawk helicopter throughout the Navy. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dustin Kelling

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephanie Tigner, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific

Sailors from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85 held a decommissioning ceremony for the Navy’s last H-3 Sea King helicopter March 6.

The helicopter departed Naval Air Station North Island en route to Atlanta to be prepped for foreign military sales.

For the past six months the Navy has phased out the H-3s and replaced them with the MH-60 helicopters which have newer technology, capabilities, and advanced ergonomics.

“Although this is a sad day for anyone who has had the pleasure of flying or working on it," said Cmdr. James Cluxton, commanding officer of HSC-85 who has flown the H-3 for the past seven years. "The Sea King has far exceeded original expectations and has forged a long, proud legacy.”

During the past 37 years, HSC-85 used the H-3 for search and rescue missions as well as to launch/recover mobile anti-submarine warfare targets and torpedoes.

Dave Williams, the Navy’s last official H-3 technical representative, said it was sad to see it go.

“I will miss its reliability and versatility," he said. "It’s an all around good aircraft.”

As the H-3 Sea King prepared to taxi down the runway for the last time, Cluxton concluded his farewell.

“Today we say ‘fair winds and following seas’ to an old friend as this aircraft moves on to another location and to another round of dedicated service. There’s only one King -- long live the King!”

Sailors and Marines Training to be Blue Angels

The March 2007 MT is in final production and it will include my new 8th annual air show guide, articles on attending/monitoring the Andrews AFB air show, and an exclusive look at the 193rd SOW. This issue always sells out so you might want to get your subscription started right now so you don't miss this or any other issue of Monitoring Times - the world's No. 1 radio hobby monitoring magazine.

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Orlando Ramos, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific

EL CENTRO, Calif. (NNS) -- Members from the Blue Angels are in El Centro, Calif. from January to March practicing, and training pilots and new team members in preparation for their upcoming show season.

The Blue Angels’ mission is to enhance Navy and Marine Corps recruiting efforts and to represent the Naval service to the United States. The Blue Angels serve as positive role models and goodwill ambassadors for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

“It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but it’s a great opportunity,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) Rebecca Kent. “It’s difficult, but not impossible, and if somebody wants it, I recommend they just go for it.”

New team members have to train extensively to become a part of the Blue Angels demonstration team. The training involves completing a wide array of personal qualification standards (PQS), certifications and cross training. Each member of the Blue Angels team, no matter their rate, has to learn and be qualified to perform different functions on the aircraft they work around.

“We operate with almost half the amount of personnel that a normal air squadron operates with,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class (AW) Krishna Budhoo. “So, we all have to know more than just our job. It allows us to be more efficient.”

Upon arrival, new team members have approximately 100 days to become qualified before they can begin working with the team and earn their Blue Angels crest, worn on the front of their uniform.

“Getting your crest is an amazing feeling,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class (AW) Katie Kilbourn. “It felt even better than graduating boot camp. Being a part of the Blue Angels is an honor and a privilege. It’s something that only a handful of Sailors get to do and I’m extremely proud to be apart of it.”

Stennis Strike Group Begins Transit Toward 5th Fleet

Photo: San Diego (Jan. 19, 2007) – The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) makes an early morning arrival in San Diego. Stennis is stopping in San Diego to embark Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) and will be joined by USS Antietam (CG 54) and USS Preble (DDG 88) to begin a regularly scheduled deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. U. S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gary Prill (RELEASED)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gethings, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- Elements of the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Carrier Strike Group left San Diego, Jan. 20, after picking up Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, and began steaming west toward the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which left its Bremerton, Wash., homeport Jan. 16, spent one day in port on-loading the air wing, and departed San Diego with the guided missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54) and guided missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88).

The guided missile destroyers USS O’Kane (DDG 77) and USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, will join the group in transit.

Stennis and its strike group are scheduled to enter 5th Fleet’s area of operation and provide support to U.S. and coalition forces operating there.

“We will support Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, the Horn of Africa and maritime security operations with the purpose to provide regional and global stability,” said Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn, Commander, Carrier Strike Group 3. “We’ve been preparing for this deployment for more than one year, we have trained and trained so that we are completely combat ready.”

Since the beginning of 2006, Stennis has been completing required training events, qualifications and inspections, all leading up to certification as a combat-ready ship. Stennis has also conducted numerous exercises with its air wing and strike group in preparation for this deployment.

“We are ready, we are sustainable, we are flexible and we provide awesome combat capability,” said Quinn. “Just the fact there are going to be two carrier strike groups operating in that region could deter any state or non-state sponsored organizations from doing something we wouldn’t want them to do.”

With its air wing embarked and its strike group assembled Stennis will steam toward the Persian Gulf and provide unmatched capability and flexibility wherever it is needed in the region.

“Not much else matters aside from the fact that when we send up aircraft, they’ll be supporting our troops already fighting,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Edison Grace of air department. “I have friends on the ground out there and I’m looking forward to sending up planes to hopefully assist them in what they’re doing.”

Grace has been aboard the Stennis since May but has done two deployments to the Persian Gulf during his tour aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

“I think we all know why we’re there and we’ll be taking it one day at a time, rather two launches at a time,” Grace said. “I’ve been looking forward to this deployment the entire year, in fact, for the last four years.”

Stennis Deploys with Carrier Strike Group 3

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Sailors said goodbye to their family members and friends Jan. 16, as the ship departed Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton for San Diego to onload Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9. The carrier, with its embarked air wing, USS Antietam (CG 54), and USS Preble (DDG 88), will deploy from San Diego Saturday, Jan. 20.

USS O'Kane (DDG 77) and USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) will deploy from their homeport of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Stennis is the flagship for Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 3, headed by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Quinn.

Stennis’ embarked air wing consists of the F/A-18C Hornet, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-6B Prowler, E-2C Hawkeye 2000, C-2A Greyhound and SH-60F/HH-60H Seahawk. The aircraft can be used to conduct strikes, support land battles, protect the CSG or other friendly ships, and implement a sea or air blockade.

The John C. Stennis Strike Group will operate in the Persian Gulf region with the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, already in the Central Command Area of Operations. The presence of two aircraft carriers, while not unprecedented, demonstrates U.S. resolve to bring security and stability to the region.

These strike groups will support Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa, and will conduct Maritime Security operations. They will also work closely with allies to build regional security and long-term stability.

Stennis has a flight deck of about 4.5 acres and towers nearly seven stories above the sea. The ship is capable of carrying a crew of about 5,600 sailors, more than 3.5 million gallons of fuel, 70 aircraft, and enough weapons and stores for extended operations without replenishment.

The ship's two nuclear reactors give it virtually unlimited range and endurance, and a top speed in excess of 30 knots. The ship’s four catapults and four arresting gear engines enable it to launch and recover aircraft rapidly and simultaneously.

CTF 150 Maintains Presence Off East Coast of Africa

This is the Task Force that is hunting down Al-Qaida in Somalia.

From U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Coalition ships from the British-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 continue to maintain a presence off the east coast of Africa in response to the recent events in Somalia.

CTF 150 includes USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and other coalition ships. These warships are conducting maritime security operations (MSO) to ensure continued security and stability of international waters surrounding the Horn of Africa.

Coalition naval forces are performing boardings on a number of vessels to deter individuals with links to al-Qaida and other terrorist organizations the use of the sea as a potential escape route.
The coalition ships of CTF 150 maintain a maritime presence in the international waters of the Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea.
Recent events in Somalia are a cause of concern because of the potential for an increased risk of piracy and illegal activities that historically has followed the instability in that country.

Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams, Commander, Task Force 150, based in Bahrain, said, “In response to international will, CTF 150 provides an enduring coalition maritime presence in the region to promote a safe and secure maritime environment, and most importantly, support our regional friends in their drive for peaceful use of the high seas and territorial waters. Coalition Forces will continue routine operations in this unstable area as long as the need exists for our presence.”

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

CTF 150 is one of three coalition maritime task forces that conduct MSO under the direction of U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Patrick Walsh, Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander, based in Bahrain. Walsh also commands CTF 158 in the North Arabian Gulf and CTF 152, which is responsible for patrolling the Central and Southern Arabian Gulf.

HSL 43 Det. 4 Returns from Counter Narco-Terrorism Deployment

By Lt. Ryan Atwood, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 43 Public Affairs

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) -- The “Rat Pak” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 43, Detachment (Det.) 4, returned to San Diego Dec. 15 from a six-month counter narcotics deployment aboard USS Thach (FFG 43).

The detachment conducted operations in the eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. The primary mission of the deployment was detection and monitoring of suspected drug smuggling vessels using Airborne Use of Force (AUF), the Navy’s newest tactic in the war on narco terrorism. AUF combines Navy helicopters with U.S. Coast Guard airborne controllers and gunners to use warning shots and disabling fire to stop drug trafficking speed boats. The speed boats previously out-ran slower Navy ships and outlasted fuel limited helicopters.

Squadron personnel integrated with Thach and U.S. Coast Guard Sailors to locate, identify and query vessels for boarding and search by the Coast Guard law enforcement team.
During the deployment, counter narcotic operations resulted in four successful drug busts. A combined total of nearly 23 tons of cocaine, with a street value estimated at $600 million, was seized and 34 drug-traffickers were detained.

In one instance Det. 4, used AUF by firing two rounds to disable the engines of a high-speed drug-trafficking vessel known as a “go fast” boat. After the boat was stopped, Det. 4 seized 1,000 lbs. of cocaine and captured four drug traffickers. Over the course of the deployment, Det. 4 flew over 500 mishap-free flight hours. While deployed, the detachment visited Panama, Peru, and the Bahamas.

Second Carrier to Deploy to the Persian Gulf

The Reuters news agency is reporting that the USS John C. Stennis will soon join the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Persian Gulf. According to anonymous sources this is at the request of US Central Command and is designed as a show of force to Iran and Syria.

You can read the complete story at:

http://today.reuters.com/news/articlenews.aspx?type=topNews&storyid=2007-01-03T214012Z_01_N03190103_RTRUKOC_0_US-USA-GULF-NAVY.xml&src=rss

Thanks to Chris Corley via the Milcom newsgroup for this heads up. And remember if you have something to share with the blog and our readers, please send it along to larryvanhorn @ monitoringtimes.com.

US Navy Photo: VFA-146 F/A-18 side number 307 flies over the USS John C. Stennis.