Stennis Strike Group to Participate in Foal Eagle

Airman Stephen Pate, from Georgetown, Ky., directs the landing of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, John C. Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Rodriguez Santiago / Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Frost, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

WATERS SURROUNDING THE KOREAN PENINSULA (NNS) -- The John C. Stennis Strike Group left the Republic of Korea to participate in exercise Foal Eagle with the Republic of Korea armed forces, March 18.

 

 Foal Eagle is an annual exercise based on realistic training scenarios intended to improve U.S. and ROK forces' interoperability.

 

 The Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines will participate in the exercise, with the naval portion of Foal Eagle taking place in international waters around South Korea, featuring a full spectrum of maritime operations.

 

 The training incorporates scenarios such as gunnery exercises, communication drills, dynamic ship maneuvers, logistical rehearsals, salvage training and liaison officer exchanges with the ROK navy. JCSSG is slated to participate in Maritime Counter Special Operations Forces simulating joint defense operations.

 

 Sailors and locals had the opportunity to interact during JCSSG's port visit in Republic of Korea. Nearly 1,500 South Koreans toured USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck and hangar bay. Sailors participated in multiple community service events at schools, senior centers and a foundation for disabled children and adults; and participated in cultural tours of historical sites such as the Dragon Temple, Beomosa Temple and the Demilitarized Zone.

 

 "It was interesting to see worshippers practicing their traditions," said Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Ian Garconnette, from Miami, who toured the Dragon Temple. "It was a fascinating clash of ancient and modern."

 

 The strike group is comprised of John C. Stennis with Carrier Air Wing 9 and Destroyer Squadron 21 embarked, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS Stockdale (DDG 106), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110) and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53).

 

 CVW-9 consists of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 14, Airborne Early Warning Squadron 112, Electronic Attack Squadron 133 and Strike Fighter Squadrons 151, 97, 41, 14.

 

 Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, JCSSG is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment.

 

CVW-9 Conducts Air Power Demo

Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 fly in formation during an air power demonstration over USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan Jiang / Released)

Stennis Strike Group Wraps Up Routine Operations in the South China Sea

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) participates in a replenishment-at-sea with the fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Mobile Bay is receiving an advanced biofuel mixture from Rainier. Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew P. Holmes/Released)

From John C. Stennis Strike Group Public Affairs 

PHILIPPINE SEA (NNS) -- The John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) has completed routine operations in the South China Sea, and transited into the Philippine Sea through the Luzon Strait.

 The JCSSG operated in the South China Sea, March 1 through March 6.

 It was the crew's first time operating there since their regularly scheduled deployment began Jan. 15. The JCSSG conducted daily flight operations and a replenishment-at-sea during their transit, receiving advanced bio fuel, aviation fuel, and supplies from USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7).

 While operating in the South China Sea, the crew sharpened their skills in one of the most heavily trafficked areas in the world. Roughly $5 trillion in trade is shipped through the South China Sea every year.

 Senior Chief Quartermaster Henry Nicol, USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) navigation department leading chief petty officer, said it's essential to carefully monitor the ship's position and course, because of congested sea lanes.

 Sailors working in Stennis' Carrier Air Traffic Control Center (CATCC) also take on a more active role in controlling aircraft.

 Lt. Jason Falk, from the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, from Stuart, Florida, welcomes the challenge.

 "It feels exciting," Falk said. "I'm putting what I have learned to use."

 Falk said the crew remains on higher alert while operating in this congested area to identify contacts as early as possible to maintain awareness.

 Additionally, People's Liberation Army (Navy) ships remained in the vicinity of Stennis during its time in the South China Sea. All bridge-to-bridge interactions between the Sailors of both navies were professional.

 "Based on the bridge-to-bridge communications USS Chung-Hoon had with the PLA(N) ships, it is clear that the Chinese Navy prides itself on professional
communications and interactions," said Cmdr. Tom Ogden, commanding officer of USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93).

 Rear Adm. Ronald Boxall, JCSSG's commander, said he is not surprised by other countries' interests in the strike group.

 "We're exercising our right to operate in international waters," Boxall said. "Our presence here promotes peace and stability in the region."

 The strike group is comprised of Stennis with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 embarked, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS Stockdale (DDG 106), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53).

 CVW-9 consists of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 112, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 and Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 151, 97, 41, and 14.

 The strike group is the centerpiece of the Great Green Fleet, a yearlong initiative highlighting the Navy's efforts to transform its energy use to increase operational capability. JCSSG will use energy efficiency measures, to include technologies and operational procedures, and alternative fuel in the course of its normal operations.

The U.S. just sent a carrier strike group to confront China

Aircraft carrier John C. Stennis has sailed into the South China Sea to exercise their freedom to navigate through the tense region. The show of force comes a week after the head of U.S. Pacific Command said China was militarizing the region.(Photo: MCSA Justin Rayburn/Navy)

By David Larter, Navy Times

The U.S. Navy has dispatched a small armada to the South China Sea.
The carrier John C. Stennis, two destroyers, two cruisers and the 7th Fleet flagship have sailed into the disputed waters in recent days, according to military officials. The carrier strike group is the latest show of force in the tense region, with the U.S. asserting that China is militarizing the region to guard its excessive territorial claims.
Stennis is joined in the region by the cruisers Antietam and Mobile Bay, and the destroyers Chung-Hoon and Stockdale. The command ship Blue Ridge, the floating headquarters of the Japan-based 7th Fleet, is also in the area, en route to a port visit in the Philippines. Stennis deployed from Washington state on Jan. 15.

The rest of the article can be seen on the Navy Times website at http://www.navytimes.com/story/military/2016/03/03/stennis-strike-group-deployed-to-south-china-sea/81270736/

HSM-37 Operating in the Philippine Sea

 An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter of the Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HSM 37) lands on the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93). Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, Chung-Hoon is operating as part of the John C. Stennis Strike Group and Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marcus L. Stanley/Released)

Stennis CSG sailing through Philippine Sea

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) sails through the Philippine Sea. Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cole C. Pielop/Released)

USS John S. Stennis Operating in 7th Fleet AOR

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Emmanuel Bonsu, from Accra, Ghana, directs an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Tophatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck. Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Rodriguez Santiago/Released)

USS John C. Stennis CSG Participating in Great Green Fleet in WestPAC

 

 

Airman Tuan Hoang, from Cleveland, signals an MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 to take off from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck. Providing a combat-ready force to protect collective maritime interests, Stennis is operating as part of the Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cole C. Pielop (Released)

#Warfighting: John C. Stennis Strike Group Enters US 5th Fleet

JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG), entered the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR), Oct. 17.

The JCSSG takes the place of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, which departed U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to return to the United States where flagship USS Enterprise (CVN 65) will be deactivated after more than 50 years of service.

"We're looking forward to working with our partner nations and ensuring the vital sea lanes of this region remain free for all maritime traffic," said Rear Adm. Chuck Gaouette, commander, JCSSG. "We have trained for a wide variety of contingencies, from supporting coalition ground troops in Afghanistan to conducting humanitarian assistance operations, and I'm confident this strike group will accomplish any mission that we are asked to execute."

JCSSG deployed four months ahead of schedule, to support combatant commander requirements for U.S. assets in the region.

While en route to 5th Fleet, the JCSSG conducted integrated training within the strike group, as well as combined operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet with the George Washington Carrier Strike Group. The JCSSG also had two port visits in 7th Fleet, Sepangar, Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand.

The JCSSG consists of the aircraft carrier USS John. C. Stennis (CVN 74), Carrier Air Wing 9, Destroyer Squadron 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). 

#Warfighting: Washington, Stennis Carrier Strike Groups Operate in Andaman Sea

The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS George Washington (CVN 73) and USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) are underway together in formation. Ships and aircraft of the George Washington and John C. Stennis carrier strike groups are conducting exercises to increase interoperability, readiness, and the capability to respond quickly to various potential crises in the region, ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance. The U.S. Navy is constantly deployed to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression through forward presence. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

ANDAMAN SEA (NNS) -- The USS George Washington and USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) steamed together in the Andaman Sea Oct. 12, conducting integrated flight operations while also practicing surface and anti-submarine drills.

Located in the northeast edge of the Indian Ocean, the Andaman Sea narrows to form the Strait of Malacca, one of the most important shipping lanes in the world. Both CSGs have been conducting forward presence operations and port visits in the vital Asia-Pacific region for the past three weeks, but having two aircraft carriers operating together in the Andaman Sea is an unusual opportunity.

"The U.S. Navy routinely conducts dual-aircraft carrier operations in international waters when and where opportunities exist; however, I believe this is the first time it has been done in the Andaman Sea," said Capt. Greg Fenton, USS George Washington's (CVN 73) commanding officer. "These operations are vital in improving interoperability and readiness to respond across the full range of military operations from humanitarian assistance to combat missions."

The two CSGs conducted similar dual-carrier operations in late September near Guam following exercise Valiant Shield.

"Integrated operations are essential to our ability to effectively respond to any threat or crisis in the region," said Rear Adm. Chuck Gaouette, commander of the Stennis CSG. "As the Asia-Pacific region continues to grow in importance, we must ensure we are capable of operating in a complex environment in order to continue to promote peace, cooperation and stability here."

Consisting of more than 10,000 Sailors, 120 aircraft, four escort ships and a supply replenishment ship, both CSGs patrolled the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations over the last few weeks before conducting highly successful port visits.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) anchored in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Sept. 30 for a four-day port visit during which Sailors conducted numerous professional exchanges with the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) while also performing community service projects. Stennis then transited the Strait of Malacca and conducted a port visit in Phuket, Thailand. Sailors worked with the Royal Thai Navy, conducted community service events, and took some time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

After recently patrolling in the South China Sea, USS George Washington conducted a port visit to Port Klang, Malaysia Oct. 7. Sailors continued advancing partnerships with the RMN by practicing Explosive Ordnance Disposal team training, conducting a medical subject matter exchange, and visiting the RMN's world class National Hydrographic Center in Port Klang.
Both aircraft carriers departed from their respective port visits in preparation for operating together in the Andaman Sea Oct. 12, the day before the U.S. Navy's 237th birthday.

"It seems appropriate that we have two of our 11 aircraft carriers working side-by-side as we celebrate the Navy's birthday," said Cmdr. Shawn Mangrum, Carrier Air Wing 5 operations officer aboard the USS George Washington. "Working with another carrier air wing increases sortie generation and provides a more robust simulated threat environment and more realistic training."

The George Washington CSG is led by Rear Adm. J. R. Haley and consists of his Carrier Strike Group 5 staff, Destroyer Squadron 15, Carrier Air Wing 5, the flagship aircraft carrier USS George Washington, the guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and the frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48).

The John C. Stennis CSG is led by Rear Adm. Gaouette and consists of his Carrier Strike Group 3 staff, Destroyer Squadron 21, Carrier Air Wing 9, the flagship aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis, guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) and guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60). The group is also joined by the fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE-10).

John C. Stennis to Depart for 8-month Deployment

ABOARD USS JOHN C STENNIS (NNS) -- The flagship of the John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG), Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), will depart Monday, Aug. 27, to begin an eight-month deployment to the western Pacific Ocean and the Persian Gulf.

Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta spoke here Wednesday with the crew of the ship to thank them for the extraordinary effort to prepare for this upcoming deployment.

"I understand that it is tough," said Panetta. "We are asking an awful lot of each of you, but frankly you are the best I have and when the world calls we have to respond. You are the heart and soul of our national defense. You are the heart and soul of what makes America strong. That's why I'm here. To thank you for what you do to help keep America the strongest military power in the world."

JCSSG is returning to the U.S. 7th and 5th Fleet areas of operation four months ahead of schedule in order to maintain combatant commander requirements for the presence in the region. Stennis returned in March from its most recent deployment.

JCSSG is comprised of the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 and USS Mobile Bay (CG53). CVW-9 consists of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, and Fleet Logistics Combat Support Squadron (VRC) 30 from Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, Calif.; Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, VFA-41, VFA-97, and VFA-192, from NAS Lemoore, Calif.; and Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 from NAS Whidbey Island, Wash.

Panetta Accelerates Stennis Carrier Strike Group Deployment

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 is directed onto the catapult on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Stennis is conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California designed to maintain mission readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Nolan Kahn/Released)

By Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy will deploy the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis and its strike group four months early and shift its destination to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, DOD officials said at the Pentagon July 16.

The deployment late this summer is in response to Central Command's requirement for an extended carrier presence, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said. The move affects 5,500 sailors aboard the Stennis and the Aegis cruiser USS Mobile Bay.

Last week, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta approved a request from Central Command commander Marine Corps General James N. Mattis to accelerate Stennis' deployment. "The decision will help support existing naval force requirements in the Middle East and reduce the gap caused by the upcoming departure of the USS Enterprise Strike Group," Little said. "It is in keeping with our long-standing commitments to the region."

Aircraft carrier strike groups provide commanders with ample and flexible air assets to enhance interoperability with partner nations and maintain strong military-to-military relations as well as respond to a wide variety of contingencies, Little said.

The Bremerton, Wash.-based Stennis strike group was due to deploy at the end of the year to U.S. Pacific Command. The group returned from duty in the Middle East in March.

The accelerated deployment to the Central Command area of responsibility is not aimed at any specific threat. "In keeping with Centcom's requirements, this is a very important region for our defense strategy," Little said. "We've had a presence in the region for decades and we have a range of interests that this extension of our capabilities will support."

Nor, he said, is the deployment a direct response to tensions with Iran. The U.S. military is "always mindful of the challenges posed by Iran, but ... this is not a decision based solely on the challenges posed by Iran," Little said.

Currently the USS Enterprise and USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike groups are deployed to U.S. Central Command. The USS Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is due to relieve the Lincoln group shortly. The Stennis group will relieve Enterprise.

The Navy continues to operate at a high operational tempo in order to meet U.S. security needs around the world,. "Our deployment strain is as great as or greater today than it has been at any time in the past 10 years," a Navy official said.

Sailors and their families have been informed of the change, Little said. Navy officials looked at a wide range of options to ensure Navy commitments and combatant commander mission requirements are met and to lessen the impact of schedule changes.

The carrier strike group will be ready to deploy even given the accelerated timeline, Little said. "The U.S. Navy is well-equipped to ensure our sailors are trained and ready for this deployment," he said.

Navy leaders understand the operational and personnel impacts this accelerated deployment will have. These include training cycle adjustments, crew and family uncertainty and reductions to quality of life port visits.

As more information becomes available, the Navy will release it, officials said, noting defense leaders are "committed to keeping sailors and their families informed about current and future deployments to the best of our ability."

USS John C. Stennis Launches Navy's Final Air Mission Over Iraq

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCS CSG) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 launched the Navy's final air sortie over Iraq Dec. 18, effectively ending naval support for Operation New Dawn.

The final command and control mission for U.S. forces over Iraq was flown by an E-2C Hawkeye from the "Golden Hawks" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 112.

The crew of five launched from Stennis at 7:32 a.m. and returned at 11:04 a.m.

"I think all of us went up to the flight deck focused on executing our assigned mission," said Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Reynolds, a pilot aboard the last flight. "We knew that we might be the crew to fly the last mission over Iraq. As always, we stayed focused on completing the mission we were assigned. After confirmation that we were the last, I realized I was part of something pretty special."

According to Rear Adm. Craig Faller, commander, JCS CSG, the mission came after two decades of combat missions flown in support of operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and finally, New Dawn.

"Navy air presence has been absolutely essential to Operation New Dawn, and the overall military mission in Iraq," said Faller.

Although the Navy's air support mission in Iraqi airspace has drawn to a close, Navy airpower continues supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan as well as maritime security operations in the region.

Carrier strike groups will continue to maintain a forward presence in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with regional partners while deterring aggressors, ensuring freedom of the seas and regional security and stability.

"I believe that John C. Stennis and Nimitz class carriers are the world's pre-eminent arbitrators of peace and stability," said Capt. Ronald Reis, commanding officer of John C. Stennis.

Stennis departed from its homeport of Bremerton, Wash. July 25, and has been conducting maritime security operations in the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation, and directly supported operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom.

In addition to Stennis and CVW 9, JCS CSG is comprised of guided missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), and Destroyer Squadron 21 which consists of guided missile destroyers USS Kidd (DDG 100), USS Dewey (DDG 105), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) and USS Pinckney (DDG 91).

U.S. 5th Fleet encompasses 2.5 million square miles of water and includes the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean.

Stennis Strike Group Completes COMPTUEX

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Carla Ocampo, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) completed a successful Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) May 27 off the coast of Southern California.

COMPTUEX, a three week exercise required for each carrier strike group, and designed to drill every warfare area from subsurface, surface and air to practice responses to situations that may occur while on deployment.

JCSCSG is made up of John C. Stennis, CVW-9, guided missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), and DESRON 21; guided missile destroyers USS Kidd (DDG 100), USS Dewey (DDG 105), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) and USS Pinckney (DDG 91).

"We all came together at the beginning of COMPTUEX as individual operating elements, and combined the forces into an effective strike group that is ready to deploy," said Cmdr. Stevin Johnson, strike operations officer.

This is the first time the strike group has worked together since last deployment.
Embarked Strike Force Training Pacific evaluators mentored the JCSCSG on integrated operational capabilities through a series of simulations.

Stennis simulated strait transits with other ships from the strike group; conducted multi-mission air wing operations; participated in replenishments at sea; and ran many shipboard drills.

"Like any evolution you have to meet certain requirements before you can get the grade of satisfactory," said Johnson.

Unit specific training allowed the separate strike group assets to practice their roles individually, while other situations reinforced the strike group's ability to integrate and operate as a single force.

"As a strike group we have gotten much better at coordinating our efforts and achieving the desired goal through a united front rather than individual warfare commanders," said Johnson.

With COMPTUEX complete, JCSCSG will begin a Joint Training Force Exercise.
"This is just the next step to a higher level of training and readiness for JCSCSG," said Johnson. "Next, we roll right into JTFEX and continue the same training we're doing right now but in a more complicated scenario.

COMPTUEX and JTFEX prepared Stennis and the JCSCG for the upcoming deployment this year.

"COMPTUEX has equipped our Sailors to meet worldwide challenges in a safe and professional manner," said John C. Stennis Commanding Officer Capt. Ron Reis. "It has given our crew the confidence and knowledge to be able to execute mission requirements during deployment; from humanitarian relief efforts to dealing with piracy or warfare in any region of the world."

Stennis Wraps Up, Comes Home

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eboni Cameron and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dimitry Chepusov

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) will return to its homeport of Bremerton, Wash., after completing 21 days at sea in support of fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications (FRSCQ) and an offload of the ship's ordnance.

Stennis embarked five squadrons in March for FRSCQ, qualifying 34 new pilots who completed 641 arrested gear landings.

"We gave every pilot the opportunity to get qualified by having the deck ready at all times," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class (AW) Christopher Callahan. "That took hard work and dedication from everybody."

After the completion of FRSCQ, Stennis began preparing for its ammunition offload. Within two days, 1,300 lifts were performed through connected and vertical replenishments to offload 2.5 million pounds of ammunition.

"It was tiring, but rewarding to get the job done," said Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class (AW/SW) Travis Bohling. "We had to get all the ordnance off the ship to enter into the industrial environment of [planned incremental availability]."

Stennis' Executive Officer Capt. Michael Wettlaufer said this underway period went very well.

"We finished our qualifications ahead of schedule, there were countless numbers of enlisted surface and air warfare qualifications and we improved our knowledge and readiness for our planned incremental availability."

Known as PIA, it is part of a cycle that all ships go through, which is normally followed by sea trials, work-ups, deployment and a surge period, before going back into another maintenance phase.

"We have been preparing for PIA since before I took over a year-and-a-half ago," said Stennis Commanding Officer Capt. Joseph Kuzmick. "That's how much effort it takes to do one of these things."

Since its last deployment, the ship completed 3100 arrested landings and qualified 115 naval aviators as the only platform available to do so in the Pacific.
"So we have been the workhorse for the aircraft carrier Navy," said Kuzmick. "Everyone else that's not deployed has been either working up to deploy or getting a maintenance availability done themselves."

After completing a six-month Western Pacific deployment in the summer of 2009, Stennis returned to sea again in a surge-ready status and completed five underway periods between September and April.

"We have been extremely successful; great work," said Kuzmick. "We don't need a whole lot, we just get the job done and that's become the Stennis way of doing things and I love it."

Carrier Air Wing 9 Completes 2009 Deployment

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Black Knights" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 fly off. John C. Stennis is returning from a scheduled six-month deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Walter M. Wayman/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Steve Owsley, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 completed their 2009 deployment when the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., July 6.

CVW 9 began its deployment Jan. 17, when it embarked Stennis for a scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific Ocean as the air assets of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group.

According to CVW 9 Deputy Commander Capt. Paul Haas, the deployment was more like the traditional Western Pacific Ocean deployments from his days as a junior officer.

"We've spent a lot of generations in the Arabian Gulf doing Fifth Fleet operations," said Haas. "This is a vital and very important thing that we do in the Western Pacific."

During the deployment, CVW 9 participated in an undersea warfare exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, annual exercise Foal Eagle with the Republic of Korea and joint exercise Northern Edge 2009.
CVW 9 Sailors also participated in 38 community service projects during seven port visits.

The deployment marked several milestones within the air wing. The Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 completed their maiden deployment, while the "Yellow Jackets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 138 made their last scheduled deployment with the EA-6B Prowler. The "Argonauts" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 completed their first deployment with the F/A-18E Super Hornet after transitioning from F/A-18C Hornet.

CVW 9 flew more than 7250 sorties, consisting of approximately 12,747 flight hours with a sortie completion rate of 97 percent during deployment.

While deployed, the squadrons of CVW 9 increased maritime security in the Western Pacific Ocean through their active presence and working with partner nations during exercises and port visits.

HSM-71 Completes Maiden Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dmitry Chepusov, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The "Raptors" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 will complete their maiden deployment when the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulls into San Diego July 6.

HSM-71 was commissioned Oct. 3, 2007 and started its first deployment on Jan. 17, 2009.

In 2007 the squadron was comprised of two aircraft and a handful of personnel. Now it has more than 270 Sailors and 11 MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopters. HSM-71 serves aboard Stennis and mans detachments aboard USS Antietam (CG 54), USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Kidd (DDG 100).

"Raptors" Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jeffrey Dodge said he has seen the squadron grow as they experienced their first deployment.

"Many of our people had never gone to sea before," said Dodge. "There was a lot of training we had to do, but everyone rose to the challenge."

Dodge said a large part of their training was on the helicopter systems, which were new to everyone in the squadron.

"Most of our training was [on the job training], and we've made more than 500 changes to the maintenance and flight publications," said Dodge. "We've had three major upgrades since we've gotten the aircraft and have set the foundation for the entire community to build upon."

Maintenance Master Chief (AFCM) (AW) Walter Butac, who has been with the squadron since its commissioning, said the major challenge was working with brand new aircraft, which were the first ones of their type to be manufactured in the world.

"We have been learning how to maintain it from day one," said Butac.

Butac said the squadron's electronics technicians had to be retrained to maintain the new helicopter.
When the Navy first established the squadron, personnel being assigned to the "Raptors" came from various backgrounds and job experiences.

"We had people coming from fixed-wing aircraft and different helicopter squadrons, and they all had different ways of doing business," said Butac. "That was the real challenge – to make them work together. But we learned a lot during the workups, and it worked out pretty good."

According to Dodge, the high point of HSM-71's maiden deployment was the USWEX [undersea warfare exercise].

"Since one of our primary missions is ASW [anti-submarine warfare], the USWEX that we did in February really showed the tactical capabilities of what we can do with the aircraft," said Dodge. "It was nice to see because it validated everything else that we've done."

During the USWEX, HSM-71 deployed multiple aircraft to simulate engagements with U.S. and Japanese submarines.

The squadron kept three helos airborne throughout the entire four-day exercise for a total 222 flight hours and conducted 28 simulated attacks on two U.S. and two Japanese submarines.

Dodge said he was proud of what his squadron accomplished during the USWEX, but he really saw them come together as a team when a helo had to be downed due to mechanical failure.

"One of the aircraft had a problem with its sensors," said Dodge. "It was replaced by another aircraft that launched within 15 minutes. So the crew and the maintainers had that aircraft prepped and ready to go. The failed system was fixed within two hours and was ready to go back into the rotation. From the warfare commander's perspective, there was no gap. It was pretty impressive."

As the "Raptors" approach the end of their first deployment, Dodge said the squadron has been blessed to be incident free while still meeting all their mission requirements.

During their workups and maiden deployment, HSM-71 flew more than 4,690 hours with a 95 percent sortie completion rate and earned the right to fly the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Pennant.

VAQ-138 Completes 2009 Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Steve Owsley, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- The "Yellow Jackets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 138 completed their 2009 Western Pacific deployment when USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Naval Station Everett, Wash., June 29.

VAQ-138 deployed Jan. 17, as part of Carrier Air Wing 9 embarked aboard Stennis.

This was the "Yellow Jackets'" last scheduled deployment with the EA-6B Prowler.

VAQ-138 will continue to fly the Prowler to sustain their pilots' qualifications, conduct training missions and take part in a joint training exercise before beginning the transition to the E/A-18G Growler in March. The transition is expected to take approximately six months and be completed in the fall of 2010.

John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group Visits Thailand

LAEM CHABANG, Thailand (NNS) -- John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) arrived in Laem Chabang, Thailand April 9 for a scheduled port visit during its western Pacific Ocean deployment.

The strike group supports maritime security in the region and promotes regional partnerships through joint operations and community service projects during port visits with host nations.

"We appreciate the people of Thailand allowing us to visit this beautiful port," said Rear Adm. Mark Vance, commander, Carrier Strike Group 3. "Our Sailors are looking forward to the opportunity to explore this magnificent region."

The Maritime Strategy focuses on joint and international partnerships across a range of operations through forward presence, deterrence, freedom of the world's sea lanes, maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

JCSCSG includes Carrier Air Wing 9, comprising Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 8, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, VFA 154, VFA 146, Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 323, Electronic Warfare Squadron 138, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 112 and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30. JCSCSG also includes ships from Destroyer Squadron 21, including the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Kidd (DDG 100) and USS Preble (DDG 88) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54).

Stennis Conducting Port Visit at Sasebo

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) transits to its anchoring point in Sasebo Ko, Japan. Stennis, as part of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, is in Sasebo for a scheduled port visit during a six-month deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Josue L. Escobosa/Released)