Navy Carrier Strike Group Deployment Schedules to Shift

NORFOLK, Va (NNS) -- The Navy announced Sept. 11 the decision to shift near-term carrier strike group (CSG) deployment schedules to address a delay in the completion of USS Enterprise's (CVN 65) maintenance availability at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News.

Navy leaders have been closely monitoring the progress of Enterprise's maintenance availability and evaluating the upcoming carrier schedules in order to meet combatant commander requirements and minimize impacts to pre-deployment training cycles.

By extending the current USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and the upcoming USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) carrier strike group deployments to just under eight months each, the Navy will meet the near-term operational requirements generated by the Enterprise maintenance availability extension. The Navy remains committed to its general policy of maintaining deployment lengths to manage personnel tempo as essential components of force readiness. No new deployments result from this schedule change; all the affected carrier strike groups were scheduled to be deployed in 2010, the only changes are to the timing and lengths of those deployments.

"Adjusting these carrier deployment schedules was the best solution of available options," said Adm. J. C. Harvey Jr., commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. "We recognize this decision has operational and personnel impacts, such as training cycle changes and family uncertainty. Our Sailors and families also are ready to step up when necessary to meet the continued demands of a nation at war."

U.S. Fleet Forces and U.S. Pacific Fleet conducted a careful, in-depth analysis to ensure the Navy maintains continued support for the Maritime Strategy while minimizing the impact of schedule changes on crews and ships.

"We have been engaged in reducing the stress of lengthy deployments, and we remain committed to that goal for our Sailors and their families," said Adm. Robert F. Willard, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. "I know changes in deployment length affect everyone. Part of our Sailors' readiness and well-being is knowing their families are being cared for regardless of deployment length. We will continue to invest in family support and readiness programs to try to reduce the stress of lengthy deployments -- we owe it to them, and I am committed to it."

Makin Island to Arrive in San Diego

The amphibious assault ship Pre-Commissioning Unit Makin Island (LHD 8) is escorted by two Chilean Navy missile craft, Casma (LM 30) and Chipana (LM 31), as it enters the Strait of Magellan. Makin Island departed Pascagoula, Miss. July 10 and is circumnavigating South America while transiting to its new homeport at San Diego. Makin Island is the eighth and final Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and is scheduled to be commissioned in San Diego on Oct. 24. (Photo courtesy of Chilean Navy/Released)

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy's newest multi-purpose amphibious ship, USS Makin Island (LHD 8), will arrive at her homeport in San Diego Sept. 14, bringing more than 1,000 Sailors and their families to the community.

Makin Island is the final amphibious assault ship built in the LHD-1 Wasp-class, but the first of the class built with gas turbine engines and an electric drive. Steam is not used on board for heating or water production as in previous LHDs. Other significant changes from previous LHD-class ships include the Watermist Fire Suppression Systems, a fiber-optic Machinery Control System (which is also integrated with the Damage Control Systems), the SPQ-9B radar and Cooperative Engagement Capability.

"At high speeds it runs on gas turbine engines and at lower speeds it runs on an electric drive -- just like a hybrid car," says Makin Island Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Kopas, "Combined with this 'gas saving' propulsion plant is a new computerized machinery control system which is the most advanced in the fleet today. It controls everything from ventilation throughout the ship, to the engines, and ballasting systems."

This advancement results in significant fuel conservation. For instance, during transit from Pascagoula, Miss., to Lima, Peru, the ship consumed 673,148 gallons less in fuel than a steam ship completing the same transit, saving American taxpayers more than $1.6 million.

During her transit from Pascagoula, Miss., Makin Island conducted theater security cooperation activities with Brazil, Chile and Peru, which focused on working closely with partner nation civil and maritime forces - sharing methods and training to build on U.S. and partner nations' already strong relations and interoperability.

Makin Island is scheduled to be formally commissioned Oct. 24 in a ceremony in San Diego and witnessed by the friends and family of the ship's 1,100 plank-owners.

Makin Island will help provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50 million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

Milcom Blog Logs - Sep 8-11 2009 - Mid Atlantic

Our old friend and MMP reporter Ron checks in again with some more great HF blog logs from his Mid Atlantic listening post. Thanks Ron for sharing. All times are UTC and frequencies in kHz

8 Sep

13270.0 Gander: 1720 USB w/volmet.

10051,0 Gander: 1728 USB w/volmet.

16540.0 Maribel (O/M Tagalog/EE): 1748 Calling Paricoy (unid maritime company) for radio check. Indicates he's calling from Maryland. Changes and calls himself Maryland and is calling Morocco. He's

L/C at my Maryland location so sometimes must be using vessel's location as callsign.

08107.0 XSS (UK DHFCS-Forest Moor UK): 2210 USB/ALE sounding.

08340.0 O/M (Italian): 2256 USB w/O/M (Italian). Prob maritime link.

08134.0 Unid: 2303 CW in progress w/5-ltr group msgs. L/C at my QTH--prob Cuban DGI.

08040.0 Nat'l Meteorologial & Oceanography Centre, Northwood UK: 2329 FAX w/WX maps.

08454.0 Unid: STANAG 4285. Prob French Navy FUO-Toulon

08464.0 Unid: 2341 STANAG 4285. Prob French Navy

08474.0 Unid: 2343 STANAG 4285. Prob French Navy

08541.0 Unid: 2344 STANAG 4285. Prob French Navy

08695.0 Unid: 2348 STANAG 4285.

08141.0 O/M (Spanish): 2350 USB w/Y/L (Spanish).

9 Sep

14396.5 NNN0VUV (Navy/USMS MARS, CA): 1600 USB w/KEY 798 (ident as Maryland station) in weekly SHARES net check in. Key798 is possibly the National Institues for Health (NIH), Bethesda MD.

10194.0 FC8FEM001 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 8, Denver CO): 1800 USB/ALE sounding.

09462.0 COLLINS004 (unid Rockwell Collins entity): 1845 USB/ALE sounding. Also sounding on 10194.0 USB.

09462.0 MO7FEM (State EOC, Springfield MO): 1900 USB/ALE sounding.

10194.0 FC4FEM (Communications Manager FEMA Region 4 Thomasville GA): 1915 USB/ALE sounding. Also on 07348.0 USB

10 Sep

09075.0 F21 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 0300 LSB/ALE calling CGA2 (HQs Venezuelan Navy).

09075.0 2TB9 (Venezuelan Navy LSM "Goijaira" T-63): 0310 LSB/ALE calling T5L1 (CEDEF-Commander, Frigate Squadron).

09462.0 NC4FEM(State EOC, Raleigh NC), MS4FEM (State EOC, Jackson MS) & SC4FEM (State EOC, Columbia SC): 1600 USB/ALE sounding.

07348.0 AR6FEM (State EOC, Little Rock AR): 2030 USB/ALE sounding.

11 Sep

08540.0 T8R1 (unid Venezuelan Navy): 0030 LSB/ALE calling 1F5G (Venezuelan Navy Base "Amario").

09075.0 ESEQUIBO (Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "Esequibo" T-62): 0100 LSB/ALE calling CAPANA (Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship " Capana", T-61).

08912.0 500 (USCG HC-130H #1500, CGAS Elizabeth City NC): 1130 USB/ALE w/LNT--in voice reports airborne from CGAS Clearwater w/9 POB for " a couple of fly-bys" then RTB Clearwater.

08912.0 F35 (USCG HU-25 #2135 CGAS Miami FL): 1145 USB/ALE calling Z13 (USCG Sector Key West, FL).

08912.0 J19 (USCG MH-60J #6019 CGAS Clearwater FL): 1207 USB/ALE w/LNT (CamsLant Chesapeake) then in voice reporting airborne from homeplate CGAS Clearwater w/5 POB for local training mission.

08912.0 J12 (USCG MH-60J #6012 CGAS Clearwater FL): 1200 USB/ALE sounding. Also on 10242.0 USB.

08912.0 720 (USCG HC-130H #1720, CGAS Clearwater FL): 1215 USB/ALE sounding.

08983.0 CamsLant: 1340 USB w/CG 2112 (HU-25 CGAS Cape Cod MA) who reports they are 24nms on heading of 052 degrees from benchmark Echo.

08983.0 CamsLant: 1347 USB w/CG 2118 (HU-25 ATC Mobile AL who reports airborne from Mobile w/6 POB enroute to Talahassee FL.

08983.0 CamsLant: 1358 USB w/CG 2117 (HU-25 CGAS Miami FL-not heard)--also radio checks at 1735.

11175.0 Offutt: 1405 USB w/Roof 81 (EC-135 552nd ACW, Tinker AFB, OK) in pp w/Barksdale AFB Metro for 1715Z wx at Hurlburt Field FL (KHRT) & Blackwater Airfield ,Munson, FL (KCEW).

15867.0 I49 (US Customs CESSNA 550 #N12549, STB, Oklahoma City, OK): 1445 USB/ALE sounding.

15867.0 LNT: 1515 USB/ALE calling J15 (USCG MH-60J #6015 CGAS Elizabeth City NC).

08983.0 CamsLant: 1730 USB w/CG 2002 (HC-130J CGAS Elizabeth City NC-not heard) who reports departing CGAS Borienquen PR enroute to Guantanamo Bay Cuba.

07527.0 F29 (USCG HU-25 #2129 CGAS Cape Cod MA): 1812 USB/ALE sounding.

08285.0 LSH3 (unid Venezuelan Navy): 2310 LSB/ALE to 4LA3 (unid Venezuelan Navy)--DTM msgs.

08191.0 O/M (Hebrew): 2323 USB w/O/M (Hebrew). Poss maritime link.

08281.0 O/M (Spanish): 2338 USB w/O/M (Spanish)-prob maritime link.

33rd Fighter Wing says goodbye to last F-15

From the Air Forces Times

The F-15 Eagle era is over for the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

On Sept. 8, the last three of the wing’s F-15s left for the boneyard in Arizona.

In October, the wing formally ends its association with Air Combat Command and stands up as Air Education and Training Command’s schoolhouse for F-35 Lightning II pilots and crew chiefs.

"It's bittersweet knowing that once I'm airborne, it's the end of the Eagle's 30-year association with the 33rd Fighter Wing, and the ramp will sit empty until the F-35s arrive next year," Col. Todd Harmer, commander of the 33rd, said in an Air Force statement.

At one time, the 33rd was home to a trio of F-15 squadrons and more than 70 fighters. Several four-star commanders flew F-15s at the wing, including ACC commander Gen. John Corley, Air Force Vice Commander Gen. Howie Chandler and retired generals T. Michael Moseley, John Jumper, Gregory “Speedy” Martin and William Looney.

During Desert Storm, the wing’s F-15s were credited with shooting down 16 Iraqi jets.

Task Force Born on 9/11 Still Guards New York

By Army Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill
Special to American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK CITY, Sept. 11, 2009 - Army Staff Sgt. Michael Wilson stands watch outside Penn Station, part of a New York National Guard task force that has continuously served since the terrorist attacks eight years ago today.

Wilson enlisted in the National Guard because of the attacks that he first learned about as he labored as a 19-year-old landscaper in Albany, N.Y. Just as the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, triggered the transformation of the National Guard from a strategic reserve to an operational force, so have they prompted Wilson to morph from teenager to soldier.

Now 26, he's been on duty more or less continuously ever since, including a stint in Iraq – a story shared by many of the 280 remaining members of Joint Task Force Empire Shield, which has swelled to as many as 2,500 during surges.

"We are a full-time, state active-duty force of 280, New York City-centric," said Army Lt. Col. Greg Dreisbach, commander. "It was formed on 9/11 and has been here since. We have some guys that have been here since almost Day 1."

Members of Empire Shield were among first responders to the attacks. Some lost friends. Some served in Empire Shield, then fell serving overseas.

"What we are doing is very important," Army Spc. Armando Chadilliquen said during a recent visit to the World Trade Center site. "It is very important that we are prepared in case anything happens."

The mission of JTF Empire Shield is to provide homeland security and defense support to civilian authorities, as needed, Dreisbach said. The task force works with 53 local, state and federal partners.

Headquartered in Brooklyn at Fort Hamilton – in the shadow of the soaring Verrazano Narrows Bridge, the last bridge across the Hudson before the Atlantic Ocean – the task force has a fully operational staff and command and control structure. It is designed to absorb a surge of troops in the event of a disaster – natural or man-made.

"[On] 9/11, we had a cold start," Dreisbach said. "If anything ever happens again, we have a warm start. We can accept up to a thousand soldiers and be able to support them for the first 72 hours."

In the meantime, members of JTF Empire Shield train. They perform missions, such as patrolling John F. Kennedy International Airport, La Guardia Airport, Penn Station and other mass transit hubs. They join New York State Naval Militia and Coast Guard reserve colleagues on boats bought with homeland security money released after 9/11. They also conduct foot patrols in and around airports and nuclear power facilities.

Sometimes the task force joins multi-agency super surges, pouring assets into transit hubs or certain areas of the city in response to indications of a threat, or for an exercise. Sometimes task force members perform random antiterrorism measures at critical infrastructure, such as the Entergy's Indian Point Energy Center, north of the city.

"There's not any given set time or day," Dreisbach explained during one such recent patrol on the Hudson River. "It's very random. It keeps the enemy off guard. They don't know when you're going to be there, when you're not going to be there. It allows the force to be more flexible."

Each member of the task force still belongs to an Army or Air unit of the New York National Guard and attends weekend drills and annual training to prepare for federal missions. Their state active-duty status is an additional mission.

They've also found time to gather 80 tons of relief supplies for Haiti, palletize it for transport and send it as humanitarian relief to the island nation.

"It's a very diverse mission set," Dreisbach said. "The main thing is that we're trained and are ready to carry out the [adjutant general's] intent, whatever that may be."

Wilson said his infantry service in Iraq is an asset in his task force duties. It gave him teamwork, accountability, situational awareness and knowledge of potential threats.

"Combat experience ... gives us a better opportunity to provide support over here," he said. "It gives us a different point of view. ... Whatever goes on in combat, you can apply right here to this mission."

Dreisbach said every visit to Ground Zero is a reminder of why he and his troops serve today. "This is where it all started," he said. "It never loses its [impact]."

Wilson recalled his reaction. "Initially, it was shock, just like everybody else in America. Who would have even thought that the World Trade Center was going to come crashing down? After the initial shock wore off, a little bit of anger, a little bit of determination to go out there and change circumstances.

"It opened up a whole lot of opportunities that National Guard members didn't have. It's heightened our readiness. It's heightened our effectiveness. We're no longer 'weekend warriors.' ... We're out training. ... We're on overseas deployments."

Army Sgt. Willis Wynne has a year with the task force and an Iraq deployment. "It's not just overseas where we need to be," he said. "We need to offer a presence back home."

In a city where 9/11 remains fresher and more vivid than in most parts of the country, task force members say they get a lot of gratitude from the public.

"People come up to us and thank us countless times during the day," said Army Sgt. Jessica Clark.

"When I joined the National Guard, that's what it was for, to help the community," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Odessa Covington. "We are doing what a lot of soldiers raised their right hand to do, to help the community."

Air Force Staff Sgt. Marcus Calliste, a first-generation American from Trinidad who has spent six of his last eight years in the National Guard on orders, said, "This is an opportunity to participate in helping out the city, state and country, which I love so much. I have family and friends who live in New York, and the opportunity to be a deterrent is definitely a privilege."

"I was angry, and I wanted to be part of the [solution]," Chadilliquen added.

In his native Peru, before he came to the United States at 26, he said, he helped pick up pieces of people he knew after terrorist bombings there. "I'm in the right place," he said. "I'm doing the right job."

Air and Army National Guard members work alongside members of the volunteer New York Guard, the New York State Naval Militia and the Coast Guard in the task force, in addition to the dozens of agency partners.

"We're here every day," Dreisbach said. "We're working with our agency partners. They know us. We know them. If there ever is an incident in the city, we already have a lot of things worked out."

Army Deployment Changes and Updates

U.S. Army Forces Command is correcting an earlier Defense Department release regarding future troop rotations to Afghanistan.

MSRON 5 Conducts Harbor Security

U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard personnel operate harbor security, force protection boats assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 5 as Combined Task Group (CTG) 56.5 to provide port security supporting U.S. Third Army. U.S. Coast Guard units deploy with U.S. Navy personnel as a part of the Maritime Expeditionary Squadron under the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command supporting operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kim Harris/Released)

Enterprise One Step Closer to Sea Trials

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dale Patrick B. Frost, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) "Big E" Sailors and Northrop Grumman shipyard workers lowered the power cylinder of catapult four into place Sept. 1.

The catapults play an essential role in allowing Enterprise to complete her wartime mission.

"This is what gets me fired up," said Enterprise Executive Officer Capt. Ryan Scholl. "We have millions of dollars of aircraft and high technology that we need to be able to launch off the flight deck of Big E."

Catapult four was removed from its trough on the flight deck and overhauled when Big E entered the shipyards. The overhaul included replacement parts and a rust-removal cleaning. The catapult was then craned back onto the flight deck where it was lowered into place. The process involved a lot of hard work and coordination between Big E Sailors and shipyard workers.

"Everyone involved with the overhauling process of catapult four should be proud because they have been a major factor in getting the ship back to the fleet and ready for her mission," said Cmdr. Brad Kidwell,
Enterprise air boss.

By lowering catapult four back into place, the Enterprise is that much closer to its goal of rejoining the fleet and deploying in support of the nation's strategic objectives.

Enterprise is currently undergoing a maintenance period in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard and training to maintain proficiency in preparation to return to the fleet.

DESRON 31 Returns After Successful CARAT Deployment

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

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The staff of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 31 returned home Sept. 4 after completing a successful four-month deployment aboard USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) May 12 to Aug. 28.

Led by Capt. Richard L. Clemmons Jr., DESRON 31 commodore, the deployment focused on the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in the Southeast Asia region.

"The whole idea behind CARAT is to build and strengthen our relationships with those countries in Southeast Asia," said Clemmons. "Many people don't know, but a large percentage of the goods that the United States receives and delivers, imports and exports, go through that area. It's a very important strategic area for the United States. It's important to have good relations with those countries."

Since 1995, CARAT has provided the U.S. and six other Southeast Asian nations – the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia – the opportunity to sharpen maritime security through shared training, equipment and manpower.

More than 1,600 U.S. personnel took part in CARAT 2009. Task Group 73.5, the U.S. Navy task group for CARAT, is under the command of DESRON 31.

With DESRON 31 as the CARAT commander, the exercise involved deploying to each of the countries in a predetermined schedule of activities which typically took about a week to 10 days.

"What is most important is that the positive relationship and understanding between our armed forces which has developed these last few days through this exercise will continue to flourish well beyond today," said Col. Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Rosli, joint forces commander, Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

During the exercises, U.S. and partner nations conducted several exercises including ship movement operations; visit, board, search and seizure exercise mission, and damage control.

"I think what's important is that we build on 2009," said Clemmons. "One of the things I want to do for each country is to capture all the unique lessons and make sure we incorporate those in a tailored program for 2010."

"What I'm hoping to see in the future is in addition to the bilateral engagement between the US and the country that we might be able to do multilateral exercises where we involve more than one country with the U.S. and we go and do the exercise together," said Clemmons.

Milcom Blog Logs - September 2009 - Australia

Our friend and a MMP reporter from down under, Eddy Waters in South Australia, checks in with the following HF logs. Thanks Eddy for sharing with my MMP readers.

4304.00. 2340 UTC. USB.Australian military. MIL STD 110A idling only, no traffic. (EW).

5673.00. 1223 UTC. USB. Beijing Volmet. Lady reading weather information.(EW).

5727.00. 1308 UTC. USB. Unid air defence, Link 11 TADIL data exchange link. (EW).

6898.50. 1220 UTC. USB MIL STD 110A idling only no traffic. Very possibly Australian military. (EW).

8150.00. 1225 UTC. Singapore navy CN3 calling 70. ALE. (EW).

8460.00. 1340 UTC. USB.Australian military. MIL STD 110A idling only, no traffic. (EW).

8731.00. 1348 UTC. AT3400 in traffic mode. USB. All encrypted channels.(EW).

8743.00. 1210 UTC. USB voice mirror, HSA Bangkok Thailand. , providing frequency information etc.(EW).

8977.00. 1037 UTC. USB. Unid air defence, Link 11 TADIL data exchange link. (EW).

9325.00 1029 UTC. USB. AT3400 in traffic mode. All encrypted channels.(EW).

9945.00. 1203 UTC. CW. Belawan, Indonesia. Weqather information. (EW).

11203.00. 830 UTC. USB. Unid air defence, Link 11 TADIL data exchange link. (EW).

13360.70. 608 UTC. USB. Unid Stanag 4285 sending short encrypted traffic messages, 600 long. (EW).

13965.00. 735 UTC. USB.Australian military. MIL STD 110A idling only, no traffic. (EW).

14141.00. 723 UTC. 81 baud. 81/500. Russia somewhere. All encrypted text. (EW).

14332.00. 724 UTC. AT3400 in traffic mode. USB. All encrypted channels.(EW).

14403.50. 603 UTC. USB. Australian military Stanag 4285 idling only, no traffic. (EW).

15838.00. 713 UTC. AT3400 in traffic mode. USB. All encrypted channels.(EW).

16200.00. 548 UTC. Baudot 50/200 Russian naval station somewhere. Encrypted traffic. (EW).

16486.00. 826 UTC. USB MIL STD 110A. Chinese navy sending short, encrypted bursts of traffic. Centre frequency is 1660 hz. (EW).

16536.00. 555 UTC. USB MIL STD 110A. Chinese navy sending short, encrypted bursts of traffic. Centre frequency is 1660 hz. (EW).

17003.50. 620 UTC. USB. Crowd 36. Russia. All encrypted text. (EW).

18536.50. 700 UTC. USB.Australian military Stanag 4285 idling only, no traffic. (EW).

20977.00. 931 UTC. USB. LINK 11 PSK 8. 2400 baud serial. Mode I have not heard before. Special thanks to Maria from Signals analyser for help with identifying this one.

Pearl Harbor and Hickam to Merge

Naval Pearl Harbor and Hickam AFB will combine into one - Joint Base Pearl Harbor/Hickam on Jan 31, 2010. Get the complete story by clkicking here.

Russian Military Exercises Underway

Courtesy of the Old Crow.

The following extract, taken from the Russian Ministry of Defence website, has been translated and submitted for information and interest by Old Crow. Date of extract 8 September. Note of interest: That's two large-ish scale Exercises that the Russians are running. Can't be short of cash, can they?

Operational-Strategic Exercise "Zapad-2009" ...

Today sees the beginning of Exercise Zapad-2009 which involves the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation together with those of the Republic of Belarus'. The Exercise will run between 8th and 29th of September and will be under the general direction of the Minister of Defence of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus' and the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. It is the ultimate operational training measures by the Armed Forces of each nation in the Union for the year 2009.

The concept of the Exercise has been developed jointly by the General Staffs of the Armed Forces of Belarus' and the Russian Federation and bears an exclusively defensive character. It represents training by the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus' and the Russian Federation in guaranteeing strategic stability in the Eastern European region.

Participation in the joint Exercise will involve:

Russian Federation Forces.. Military Direction Staffs; Detachments and units from the Moscow and Volga-Urals Military Districts; the Baltic Fleet; Air Force, Air Defence, and Airborne Forces command staffs, Rear Services command staffs and operational groups from federal executive functions.

Armed Forces of Republic of Belarus'.. Military Direction Staffs; Detachments and units from operational commands, operational groups from civil organisations, personnel and assets from Internal Security Forces, police, State Security etc.

In all, some 12.5 thousand service personnel will be involved. (Russia: 5-6 thousand; Belarus' 7-8 thousand) Up to 40 aircraft and up to 200 combat vehicles.

Virginia National Guard’s Richmond Armory to close

By Maj. Cotton Puryear
Virginia Guard Public Affairs

RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia National Guard will close the armory located in Richmond and relocate units currently stationed at the facility to other Virginia Guard installations throughout the state, Maj. Gen. Robert B. Newman, Jr., the Adjutant General of Virginia, announced Sept. 9.

The decision to close the Richmond facility located on Dove Street was part of Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine’s 2010 budget reduction plan. Closing the Richmond facility, along with closing the Roanoke armory, will result in a projected 2010 budget reduction of $115,000.

“The Virginia National Guard, like many state agencies, has been forced to make difficult decisions in these tough economic times,” Newman said. “The decision to close the facility in Richmond was not an easy one, but it made the most sense given our current location of units.”

The number of Virginia Army National Guard Soldiers and units impacted by the move are:



Headquarters, 91st Troop Command, consisting of approximately 40 Soldiers, will relocate to the Sandston Readiness Center.

Headquarters Company, 276th Engineer Battalion and A Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, consisting of approximately 175 Soldiers, will relocate to the Bowling Green Readiness Center.

Headquarters Company, 1710th Transportation Company, consisting of approximately 65 Soldiers, will relocate to the Petersburg Readiness Center.

A Company, 1st Battalion, 111th Field Artillery Regiment, consisting of approximately 95 Soldiers, will relocate to the Sandston Readiness Center.

Newman said that any Soldier who would have to drive more than 50 miles to their new duty location would be given the option of being reassigned to a unit closer to Richmond area.

Milcom Blog Logs - Sep 9 2009 - Mid Atlantic

Our old buddy Ron in the Mid Atlantic checks in with more Milcom Blog Logs. As always Ron thanks.

ACY-Atlantic City NJ
ADW- Andrews AFB MD
BW- Bay Watch-NAS PAX Area Advisory Control
DAA- Davison AAF, Ft Belvoir VA
DCA- Reagan National Airport/CGAS Washington, Wash DC
DOV- Dover AFB DE
GK- Giantkiller (FACSFAC, Virginia Capes)
LFI- Langley AFB VA
MTN-Martin State Airport, Baltimore
NGTF-Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
NXX- Willow Grove JRB PA
PAX-NAS Patuxent River MD
PTC- Potomac Area TRACON
WRI-McGuire AFB NJ
ZBW-Boston ARTCC
ZDC- Washington ARTCC
ZNY- New York ARTCC

1. VHF/UHF: ((Times are EDT))

1005- Boxer 35 & 99 (C-38/C-40, 201st AS DC ANG ADW)-patterns at ADW.

1006- Marine 767 (UC-35 # 166767, MAW-4)-patterns at ADW.

1007- Colt 1 flt (A-10Cs, 104th FS MD ANG MTN)-check in w/ZNY Lancaster (239.05). Prob headed for Bollen Range.

1008- N94AR (DHC-7, NGTF)-on Northrop discrete (123.4)

1009- Wild flt (4 X F-16s, 121st FS DC ANG ADW-)-check into W107 (255.0). Also on sqdn discrete (143.6). bAfternoon sorite in W107 in the 1400 hour.

1020- Bolar ?9?2 (C-5, 436th AMW DOV)-patterns at DOV.

1024- Reach 803-check in w/ZDC Cape Charles (132.55).

1030- Tester 11 (T-38C # 68-8158, NTPS PAX)-w/BW (256.5)

1033- Scary flt (F-16s, 121st FS DC ANG ADW)- w/ZDC Casino (285.4). Also on sqdn freq (139.15).

1245- N164W (BAC-1-11, NGTF)-w/Northrop Base (123.225) upon return to Baltimore

1251- Roper 95 (C-5 WESTOVER ANGB MA)-depart DOV (132.425).

1252- SPAR 20-land at ADW

1254- Navy 691 (C-20D # 163691, VR-1 ADW)-w/PAX departure (121.0)

1304- SAM 2-9000 (VC-25, PPO ADW)-depart ADW (125.65)--requests routing info from PTC but not heard here. Heads direct to Paleo intersection so prob heading north-northeast.

1306- Navy JR 093 (C-20G # 165093, VR-48 ADW)-patterns at ADW.

1414- Drago 51 (unid)-w/ZDC Calvert requesting FL160 because of wx.

1416- Raven flt (2 X A-10Cs, 104th FS MD ANG MTN)-land at MTN (297.2)

1420- Lobo 41 (F-16 SD ANG -deployed to Langley)- w/Huntress (228.9) & on 138.0 talking to a civilian acft (simulated foreign accent) on 138.0 who says he has many sick passengers and needs to land at Wash DC. Lobo 41 idents self as Air Defense fighter and will escort the civilan acft to IAD. Lobo 41 tells him to contact ATC on 123.9 "simulated" so most prob is an exercise. At 1438 Lobo 41 clears out of
W386 (249.8) RTB LFI.

1425- Devil (F-16s, 119th FS NJ ANG) & Jaws flt (F-16s, VT ANG Burlington VT) in ACM training on discrete (138.0)

1433- Venus 44 (VC-37A # 97-0404, 89th AS ADW)-w/ZDC Calvert (133.9)

1510- Venus 92 (VC-32A # 98-0002, 1st AS ADW)-patterns at ADW.

1513- Pacer 22 (C-21A, 457th AS ADW)-patterns at ADW.

1520- TP 63 (NSH-60B # 162974, NTPS PAX)-w/ADW tower (118.4)

1522- N162W (BAC-1-11, NGTF)-on Northrop discrete (123.225). At 1435 checks in w/BW (270.8)-alos working on NGTF discrete (123.175).

1525- Gunny 24 (prob E-4B NAOC)-land at ADW.

1529- Tester 961 (T-6A Texan II # 165961, NTPS PAX)-w/BW (354.8) min North Spin Area then to Webster OLF.

1532- Guard 858 (UH-60 # 23858, MD ArNG Weide AAF)-local acty at Weide (126.2)

1534- Navy 501 (UC-12 7A1501, Base Flt PAX)-w/ZDC Calvert (133.9)--returns to PAX at 1705.

1535- Zapper 11 (EA-6B VAQ-130, NAS Whidbey Island, WA-female pilot)-checks in w/ZDC Montebello (284.7) at FL160.

1538- Army 301 (UC-35 # 01-0301, OSACOM ADW)-land at ADW.

1603- Crab 53 (C-130J # 97-1353, 135th AS MD ANG MTN)-w/Crab Ops (384.1) w/inbound msg.

1620- Scary 1 flt ()-land at ADW (348.725 & 349.0)-also w/121st FS SOF (139.9)

1655- Nighthawk 6 (prob VH-60, HMX-1 MCAF Quantico VA)-w/Wash Helo (134.35).

1658- Reach 9008-w/DOV Metro (342.0)

1700- SAM 5587 (99th AS ADW)-depart ADW- then w/ZDC Calvert (133.9)

VFA-195 Operating from the USS George Washington

An F/A-18C Hornet, from the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, executes a touch and go during an air demonstration aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, hosted a family and guest cruise after returning from her inaugural summer deployment supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Marcos Vazquez/Released)

CIAS 2009 Airshow Report

The 2009 Canadian International Airshow (www.cias.org), still has one day left (Monday) and some of my blog readers might be interested in what has been monitored. Airshow report courtesy of the ScanOnt team from Canada.(It's a Yahoo email group.)

Air show organizers:
119.200 Air boss
123.100 Holding
123.600 Air-to-ground/PA

Horsemen P-51s:
122.925

Blue Angels:
139.8125 Air-to-ground
237.800 Solos
275.350 Diamond
284.250 Box
(No startup/apron frequencies noted since this is an off-airport show)

F-16 and F-22 Demos:
376.025 Air-to-ground and also air-to-air while co-ordinating hand-off from one display to another

USAF Heritage flight (F-16, F-22, 2xP-51s):
123.600 (one of the discrete air show frequencies)

Snowbirds:
246.500 This is unusual - it is not a new frequency for them but they have been on 272.100 or 116.00 at every Canadian show I've been to for at least 10 years

Milcom Blog Logs - Sep 2-7 2009 - Mid Atlantic

MMP team member Ron checks in with some more HF intercepts for this edition of Milcom Blog Logs. (All times in UTC and frequencies in kHz)

2 Sep

08200.0 O/M (Russian): 2259 USB w/unheard station. Prob maritime link.

08337.6 Shark 19 (USCGC Chandeleur, WPB-1319, Miami FL): 2324 USB asking Striker 21 (prob UCGC HH-65C #6521, CGAS Borinquen) intentions after landing to refuel.

3 Sep

08050.0 FC8FEM010 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 8, Denver CO): 1700 USB/ALE sounding. Also on 10194.0 USB & 13446.0 USB

09462.0 FC4FEM (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 4, Thomasville GA): 1630 USB/ALE calling KY4FEM (State EOC, Louisville KY); MS4FEM, Sate EOC Jackson MS) & M07FEM (State EOC, Springfield MO). Also on 07348.0 USB.

07348.0 FP5FEM (unid entity FEMA Region 5, Battle Creek MI): 2100 USB/ALE sounding.

09080.5 O/M (Spanish): 2310 USB w/O/M (Spanish).

4 Sep

08540.0 5JL1 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 0300 LSB/ALE calling 7RC4 (unid Venezuelan Navy).

09380.0 T8R1 (unid, Venezuelan Navy): 1130 LSB/ALE sounding.

08889.0 O/M (Spanish): 2137 USB w/unheard station.

08280.0 T8R1 (unid, Venezuelan Navy): 2300 LSB/ALE calling 1F5G (Venezuelan Navy Base "Amario")

08280.0 2TB9 (unid, Venezuelan Navy): 2315 LSB/ALE calling T5L1 (CEDEF-Commander, Venezuelan Navy Frigate Squadron).

5 Sep

08280.0 2TB9 (unid, Venezuelan Navy): 0010 LSB/ALE calling 1EW9 (unid, Venezuelan Navy) & T5L1 (CEDEF-Commander, Venezuelan Navy Frigate Squadron).

08280.0 F21 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 0100 LSB/ALE calling CGA1 (HQs, Venezuelan Navy).

08340.0 1F5G (Venezuelan Navy Base "Amario"): 0500 LSB/ALE calling T8R1 (unid, Venezuelan Navy).

09081.5 STPOPS (Minnesota ArNG, Army Avn Support Facility (AASF) St. Paul, MN): 1600 USB/ALE sounding.

07120.0 KB3JAJ (Crownsville MD): 2315 USB/ALE sounding.

07120.0 N4EF (Oplaka, FL): 2330 USB/ALE sounding.

7 Sep

08218.0 O/M (Spanish): 0007 USB w/O/M (Spanish) w/sea conditions and position reports. Maritime link.

08344.0 7RPEK (CIS miliary/Russian navy): 0018 CW calling RMG8K & sending short 5-figure group msgs for RFH77, RJH45, RJH74, RJE73.

Final Mine Countermeasure Ship To Arrive in San Diego

Sentry (front) and USS Kingfisher (MHC-56)

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Sentry (MCM 3), the final of eight mine countermeasure ships (MCM), is scheduled to arrive to its new homeport at Naval Base San Diego the second week of September after transiting from Ingleside, Texas.

Sentry is part of Commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron (COMCMRON) 2. USS Champion (MCM 4), USS Devastator (MCM 6), USS Pioneer (MCM 9), USS Warrior (MCM 10) and USS Chief (MCM 14) arrived in San Diego in April and May. USS Defender (MCM 2) and USS Avenger (MCM 1) were heavy lifted to Japan for deployments in the western Pacific in June.

COMCMRON 2 is the squadron commander for all mine countermeasure ships in San Diego. The relocation of mine warfare surface assets from Ingleside, Texas, to San Diego is in accordance with the Defense Base Relocation and Closure Commission's (BRAC) directed closure of Naval Station Ingleside and is part of the consolidation to align resources, consolidate expertise and increase cost savings in maintenance, training and operations.

Naval Mine and Anti-submarine Warfare Command (NMAWC) based in San Diego will oversee the mission of the MCMs. NMAWC focuses efforts across numerous resource sponsors, systems commands, research laboratories, training organizations and operational commands to ensure Navy-wide competency in the naval mine warfare (MIW) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) mission areas.

MCM ships possess the ability to effectively control, shape and dominate the littoral operational area which includes locating and neutralizing mines. The merger between naval MIW and ASW is the latest step towards improving the efficiency and effectiveness of these warfare capabilities, resources and technology functions.

Sentry helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50 million square mile area of responsibility in the eastern Pacific as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

USS Benfold Deploys in Support of BMD

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) is nearing preparations for her upcoming deployment to the western Pacific and Middle East.

Benfold is expected to depart Naval Station San Diego Sept. 8.

During the deployment, Benfold and her crew of about 18 officers and 250 enlisted Sailors will operate independently from any carrier strike group, and will directly support the U.S. Central and Pacific commands as a ballistic missile defense (BMD) asset.

Commanded by Cmdr. Thomas C. Disy, Benfold is one of 18 U.S. ships - three cruisers and 15 destroyers - fitted with the full Aegis BMD capability in the Navy, allowing them to detect, track and engage enemy ballistic missiles.

Maritime ballistic missile defense, a core capability of the Navy, will enhance deterrence by providing an umbrella of protection to forward-deployed forces and friends and allies, while contributing to the larger architecture planned for defense of the United States.

As one of 20 destroyers that belong to U.S. 3rd Fleet, Benfold helps provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50 million square mile area of responsibility in the western Pacific as well as supporting the Navy's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

Amphibious Force 7th Fleet Staff Embarks ROK Command Ship

U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and Republic of Korea Ship Dokdo (LPH 6111) moored at Busan. Blue Ridge is in Korea for exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian 2009. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Mitchell/Released)

By Lt. Cmdr. Denver Applehans, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Several members of the Amphibious Force 7th Fleet staff, including the Amphibious Force Commander embarked Republic of Korea Ship Dokdo (LPH 6111) as part of exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) last week.

During the week of the pierside embark, American personnel experienced day-to-day life working aboard a Republic of Korea naval vessel.

Amphibious staffs from both nations worked together to develop plans and execute operations in a computer simulation driven exercise aimed at supporting a turnover of operational control (OPCON) of the defense of ROK in 2012.

"Moving toward Korean OPCON in 2012, an embark such as this enables us to work and train side-by-side with our Korean counterparts in their command and control environment," said Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, Amphibious Task Force Commander. "The ROK military is outstanding at all levels, and it was a pleasure to see them in action on Dokdo."

The vessel, commissioned into the ROK Navy in April 2007, has a state of the art operations center that proved extremely capable for coordination, communication and command and control.

"Living and working aboard Dokdo gave us a unique opportunity to train and learn from our Korean counterparts as they prepare to assume operational control of the defense of the ROK in 2012," said Lt. Col. Evan Holt, embarked U.S. personnel and Amphibious Force 7th Fleet plans officer.

UFG 09 is part of a series of annual U.S.-Korean bilateral defensive exercises designed to evaluate and improve combined and joint coordination, procedures, plans and systems for conducting contingency operations between ROK and U.S. forces.

Air Force officials reactivate 69th Bomb Squadron at Minot

by Tech. Sgt. Lee Osberry Jr., 5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. (AFNS) -- Air Force officials reactivated the 69th Bomb Squadron Sept. 3 at Minot Air Force Base.

The new unit is the fourth operational B-52H Stratofortress squadron in the Air Force and joins the 23rd Bomb Squadron as the second squadron here.

The new squadron was established to provide each B-52 wing with two active-duty combat coded squadrons, which will give the Air Force "bench depth" to rotate the squadrons across the mission sets as recommended in the Defense Science Board Report.

Barksdale AFB, La., has two operational B-52H units, the 20th Bomb Squadron and the 96th Bomb Squadron.

The much-anticipated stand up was previously announced in 2008 and extensive studies were conducted to determine which base the unit would best fit. Minot AFB was announced as the home and the 69th BS was designated for reactivation Aug. 28.

"The activation of the 69th Bomb Squadron at Minot Air Force Base is a historic event that continues the legacy of the distinguished 69th Bomb Squadron," said Maj. Gen. Floyd L. Carpenter, the 8th Air Force commander. "In World War II, the 69th Bomb Squadron deployed A-26 and B-26 bombers to Australia and the South Pacific. And during the Vietnam War, the 69th Bomb Squadron stepped up to the plate and deployed B-52 aircraft to Guam and Thailand. Now more than 65 years after its initial activation, the 69th Bomb Squadron returns to provide deterrence forces and help balance the demands of both the nuclear and conventional missions of the B-52 fleet."

"The 69th has close ties with the 5th (Bomb Wing), and is definitely a logical choice," said Lt. Col. Kevin J. Notari, 5th Operations Group Det. 1 commander. "Both units fought simultaneously out of two different locations in the Southwest Pacific theater during World War II. Furthermore, the unit was the first Air Force unit to fly night low-level combat sorties during the first three days of Desert Storm."

As a result, 10 B-52 aircraft from Barksdale AFB will flow to Minot AFB between October and April 2010.

There won't be a significant number of personnel that will flow with the aircraft, as personnel for the new squadron will flow in gradually through the normal (permanent change of station) process and support from the 23rd Bomb Squadron.

"This activation is a measure of the confidence our nation has in the men and women of Minot Air Force Base," said North Dakota Gov. John Hoeven. "The 69th Bomb Squadron will bring approximately 1,000 new military members and their families to the state and will be a major asset to the community, Minot Air Force Base and our nation," he added.

The squadron is expected to mirror the other three currently established active B-52 squadrons. As the squadron builds up, many of the resources and functions from the 23rd BS will be shared including training, exercises and deployments.

"This adds flexibility to the Air Force Global Strike Command mission," said Maj. William Byers, the 5th OG Det. 1, chief of standard evaluations. "The 69th allows for an even distribution of operations tempo between the 2nd Bomb Wing and 5th BW, and at the same time, supports the persistent presence in United States Pacific Command," he added. This will help refine and focus nuclear mission training for B-52 units and is part of continued Air Force efforts to reinvigorate the nuclear enterprise.

The Air Force has a legacy of providing strategic capabilities as stewards of the nuclear enterprise, and is committed to conducting safe, secure and reliable nuclear operations.

Dual Carrier Operations Give Brothers Chance to Take to the Sky Together

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Amara R. Timberlake, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS NIMITZ, At Sea – (NNS) -- Lieutenants Lee and Travis Amerine, the Amerine brothers, knew they wanted to fly from an early age.

"There was an F-4 Phantom squadron near our hometown in Paris, Ark. We would watch them take off from the end of the runway," said Travis, assigned to the "Royal Maces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27 of Carrier Air Wing (CAW) 5 embarked on George Washington. "It didn't take much more than one afterburner takeoff to convince us that we wanted to go do that."

Lee blazed the trail for Travis and their younger brother Denver, by graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 2003. Travis and Denver are also Naval Academy graduates.

"We all got the idea at the same time when we were kids," said Lee, assigned to the "Tophatters" of VFA-14 of CVW 11 embarked on Nimitz. "I was just the first one who was able to pursue it."

Since the brothers are assigned to two different air wings on different carriers, the opportunity they had to fly together was very rare.

"I didn't think it was going to happen," said Lee.

"The chances of us being up there at the same time were slim. It is still hard to believe that we got airborne together, in the same cycle from two separate flight decks with all the possibilities that could have canceled us," said Travis.

Both pilots are thankful for the once in a lifetime opportunity and the chance they have to serve their country everyday.

"We're both loving what we're doing," said Lee.

"It was incredible," said Travis. "I just hope to keep serving my country both in and out of the cockpit, and to never forget that every sortie is a gift."

Wednesday, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG) concluded routine air and surface operations with the forward deployed George Washington Carrier Strike Group in support of the maritime strategy.

Nimitz CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, Commander, CSG 11, is comprised of USS Nimitz (CVN 68), the guided-missile destroyers USS Pinckney (DDG 91) and USS Sampson (DDG 102) of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin (CG 55) from Commander, Naval Surface Group, Mid Pacific and the Perry-class frigate USS Rentz (FFG 46) from DESRON 1. Squadrons from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 117. Detachments from the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45 and the "Scorpions" of HSL 49. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 11 and the USNS Bridge (T-AOE-10) embarking the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 also accompany Nimitz CSG.

Enterprise Trains to Rejoin the Fleet

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeffry Willadsen, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- The crew of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) is accelerating its shipwide training in preparation for leaving the shipyards.

Training, along with preparation and restoration of the ship, has been a priority during its one-and-a-half years at Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard.

However, as the ship is preparing to become fully operational once again, quality training has become the top priority of everyone from the commanding officer down to the most junior Sailor aboard Big E.

"Since we're working on getting out of the shipyard and back on deployment, the ship's focus has shifted almost entirely to training," said Chief Operations Specialist (SW/SS) Brian Wemmerus, Training department leading chief petty officer.

Damage Control and Material Maintenance Management (3M) training are a priority, as well as shipwide qualifications and certifications.

"We're ramping up to get this ship out to sea and back in the fight, and we need qualified Sailors to do it," said Wemmerus.

3M training is especially important considering the age of the ship and its extended period in the shipyard.

"Maintenance is the life blood of the fleet," said Lt. George Bodine, Enterprise's material maintenance management officer. "If we're going to get the ship fully operational and keep it that way, we're going to need Sailors who know how to maintain the ship."

To do so, the 3M division has begun implementing much more intensive 3M assessment testing. The testing judges the crew's maintenance knowledge, combined with targeted maintenance training sessions in individual departments, to ensure that all Enterprise Sailors are where they need to be with 3M procedures.

Damage control readiness is another aspect of training and is essential to keeping the ship running smoothly in case of casualties, and for the safety of the crew.

"We need Sailors who know what to do in case of a fire, flooding, or any other emergency that can happen underway," said Damage Controlman Chief (SW) James Waddell, Enterprise's Damage Control Training Team (DCTT) coordinator.

To ensure that all hands are proficient in damage control the ship conducts general quarters drills which are designed to ensure Sailors maintain proficiency on what to do in case a real casualty takes place.

A damage control academy was also established on the ship and is led by the ship's DCTT. The academy is designed to instruct members of the ship's ten repair lockers on the specifics and real-life execution of damage control procedures.

"The training will be progressive, but every sailor will be ready for any emergency before the ship gets underway," said Waddell.

"I am inspired by all of the training we are doing around the ship," said Enterprise's Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Dominic Musso. "Each day our training brings us one day closer to being able to take our great warship to sea and do what we do best...maintain sea control, deter our enemies, establish a forward presence and project power."

Enterprise is currently undergoing a maintenance period in the Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard and training to maintain proficiency in preparation to return to the fleet. For more information about USS Enterprise, Carrier Strike Group 12 or Carrier Air Wing One visit www.Enterprise.navy.mil, www.ccsg12.surfor.navy.mil, and www.cvw1.navy.mil. You can also visit www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn65/.

NNSY Completes USS Boise Availability Early

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class submarine USS Boise (SSN 764) finished her maintenance availability one day early at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Aug. 31, completing the largest modernization package to date on a Los Angeles-class submarine at the shipyard.

Improving performance on submarine availabilities has been a major emphasis of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Commander, Vice Adm. Kevin M. McCoy's "Back to Basics" initiative.

"Back to basics" is about eliminating bottlenecks and optimizing the workday to improve shipyard processes with the goal of completing quality availabilities, on time and on cost.

"Los Angeles-class submarines are the toughest product line we shipyards face," said NNSY Submarine Program Manager, Oliver "Buddy" Bennett. "We have put a lot of effort into improving this area of our business at NNSY."

Additionally, NNSY Lean efforts, designed to improve the quality of work processes, improved the co-location of the project team and facilities for mechanics onboard Boise. Co-location minimizes lost work time due to travel and increases time for productivity on the site. Other NNSY submarine projects benefiting from enhanced co-location include USS Augusta (SSN 710) and the current availability for USS Tennessee (SSBN 734).

"We stayed focused doing the right things at the right time," said NNSY Project Superintendent Billy Cox. "Our work integration team did an outstanding job integrating 23,000 mandays of modernization."

Boise team leaders said the spirit of teamwork was essential during the project, which drew on personnel from Norfolk Naval Shipyard, ship's force, Alteration Installation Teams, and-as part of the One Shipyard concept-a Portsmouth Naval Shipyard team.

NNSY is one of four NAVSEA public shipyards that play a major role in maintaining America's fleet and providing wartime surge capability to keep the nation's ships ready for combat.

NMCB 22 Ready for Deployment to SW Asia

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Kuzlik, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 22 Public Affairs

GULFPORT, Miss. (NNS) -- Nearly 600 Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 22 returned to Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport Aug. 26 following successful completion of a two-week field training exercise (FTX) at the national mobilization site aboard Camp Shelby, near Hattiesburg, Miss.

Even though the official motto of the Seabees is Construimus, Battuimus, or "We Build, We Fight," Seabees do much more of the former but must continue to be prepared for the latter, especially with U.S. forces simultaneously engaged in combat operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

During the exercise, the battalion was evaluated to ensure that it is mission capable and is ready to carry out tasking as necessary in preparation for the battalion's upcoming deployment to Southwest Asia in September.

"The Lone Star Battalion", as NMCB 22 is called, "line hauled" its trucks and much of its equipment and personnel in convoys from NCBC Gulfport to a pre-constructed contingency operations location (COL) at Camp Shelby, about 60 miles to the north.

While at the COL, Seabees received training in chemical, biological and radiological (CBR) defense, indirect fire drills, and prepared for the push to a forward operating base (FOB).

Three days later, an air detachment moved out to construct the FOB, constructing a defensive perimeter with concertina wire and fighting positions, an entry control point (ECP), and Command Operations Center (COC). Afterwards, the main body followed constructing a galley, chapel, showers, and a laundry facility.

The same day, a detachment pushed out to construct a medium-girder bridge, a SWA (Southwest Asia) Hut, a 12 x 800-foot road project with two culverts, one crow's nest (armored observation tower), a four-hole burnout (lavatory facility), a hardened security bunker, heavy timber bunker at the FOB, and also completed quick reaction road repair to fix a bomb-crater hole.

All this tasking was completed while under the constant threat of attack from an aggressor battalion, whose job was to simulate attacks by snipers, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), suicide bombers and even the use of civilians as human shields for intelligence gathering, civil disobedience and other attacks.

NMCB 22 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Ernst K. Walge commented on the battalion's performance during the exercise.

"We learned a lot of very valuable, 'real world' skills while in the field, making this a very real, very relevant experience for everybody." Walge said.

"Communications and accountability are the big topics. For sure this is something that every Seabee in the battalion will take with them when we deploy forward next month."

For Yeoman 2nd Class Clayton Brennen, a former field artillery Soldier in the Army, this was his first field training exercise with the Seabees.

"It was really a good experience. I helped build the heavy timber bunker, and got to see how the Seabees build, and make stuff happen. They did a great job with the shower just to make life in the field a little more bearable."

NMCB 22 is based at Joint Reserve Base NAS Fort Worth, Texas, with nine detachments at Navy Operational Support Centers in Texas and Oklahoma. Its mission is to train for mobilization readiness and construction operations in support of Commander, First Naval Construction Division.

USS Doyle, HMNLS Amsterdam Conduct Passing Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Patrick Grieco

USS DOYLE, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Doyle (FFG 39) and the Dutch Amsterdam-class fast combat support ship HMNLS Amsterdam (A 836) conducted a multi-event Passing Exercise (PASSEX) Aug. 28 as both ships were in vicinity of Willemstad, Curacao.

Events included small boat operations, a personnel cross deck, alongside approaches, connected replenishment at sea, Helicopter Deck landing Qualifications with Amsterdam's Lynx helicopter.

Doyle's Commanding Officer Cmdr. John Zuzich said multinational operations such as this, can only benefit Doyle's crew and the Navy as a whole.

"Anytime we have a chance to work with our partner nations it improves our confidence in each other and our interoperability," said Zuzich. "So when we conduct multinational operations or joint operations it is very seamless and we come together effectively. This operation was a perfect example of that."

As part of the operations, Amsterdam requested testing of their NATO fuel probe to ensure proper operation prior to the ship participating in upcoming PANAMAX 2009 exercise. Doyle was able to accommodate the request, and received over 2000 gallons of fuel from Amsterdam.

Deck department Sailors also had the unique opportunity of simulating a Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) with the Amsterdam's helicopter.

These operations were important to Amsterdam in preparation to support the 12 multinational ships that will be operating in the Caribbean as part of PANAMAX 09.

After the CONREP, Zuzich also had the chance to spend a few hours aboard the Amsterdam and witness a first-hand view of life aboard a Dutch ship.

"It was very nice to be able to spend some time with the CO of their ship and talk about just how much we have in common. When we're able to work with our friends, like the Dutch, it can only bring us closer together, it helps us to operate together and improve upon our friendship." said Zuzich.

Sailors from the Amsterdam also had a chance to cross-deck to the Doyle. One Dutch sailor, from Amsterdam's Administration department, Able-body Seaman Deen Polman said this was his second time conducting a CONREP with an American ship, but his first time viewing it from the American ship.

"Normally I stay over there to help the guys, but this time I was here and it was very fun to watch," said Polman. "Multinational events such as the Passing Exercise and PANAMAX are a very good idea and concept. It can only benefit the world to work together as a team."

Doyle is on a six-month deployment to Latin America and the Caribbean as part of Southern Seas 2009 in support of U.S. Southern Command's Partnership of the Americas Maritime Strategy. Southern Seas focuses on working with partner nations in the region conducting exercises, military to military engagements, and theater security cooperation engagements to enhance interoperability. This year's deployment includes Doyle, USS Kauffman (FFG 59) and USS Ford (FFG 54), and is executed by DESRON 40 as CTG 40.0.

GW Carrier Strike Group Completes Inaugural Summer Deployment, Returns to Yokosuka

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki, USS George Washington Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) completed their inaugural summer deployment Sept. 3, returning to their forward-deployed home at Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

The GW CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan, is comprised of CVW-5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, and the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

USS George Washington (CVN 73), flagship of the carrier strike group and the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, departed Yokosuka June 10, traveling 4,552 nautical miles on its inaugural summer deployment since replacing the decommissioned aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk last year. GW was accompanied into port by the guided missile cruiser USS Cowpens (CG 63) and the guided missile destroyers USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) and USS McCampbell (DDG 85). Most of Carrier Airwing Five (CVW 5) flew off from GW August 2, returning to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan.

A central focus of the deployment was promoting security and stability throughout the Western Pacific Ocean by enhancing interoperability and building partnerships with Western Pacific nations.

"Throughout our Western Pacific deployment, we were able to work with a large number of allies and global maritime partners, which enhances our joint capacity to preserve security and stability," said GW's Commanding Officer, Captain David A. Lausman. "Being on our first summer deployment in the region, it was important to get out and meet our regional maritime partners for the first time, and show our readiness and willingness to partner with them now and in the future.

"We continue to look forward to all future underway periods where we can nurture growth and understanding with all of our global maritime partners throughout the 7th Fleet area of responsibility," continued Lausman.

During the deployment, the GW CSG participated in Talisman Saber 2009 (TS 09) July 13-25. TS09 is a biennial exercise hosted by the Australian Defense Force focused on enhancing combat readiness, building and fostering relationships between nations, and preparing responses to possible crises and conflicts. Aviators from embarked CVW 5 made simulated strikes on targets in central and northern Australia during TS09, and Sailors from GW's Air Department were able to launch and recover aircraft in an increased-tempo flight operations environment.

Another way GW Sailors fostered partnerships and interoperability was through the three port visits made by the aircraft carrier: in Perth, Australia; Singapore; and Manila, Republic of the Philippines. During each visit, local citizens and military members toured the ship and interacted with Sailors.

During the Manila visit, the first by a U.S. aircraft carrier in more than 13 years, Sailors from CVW 5 and six different GW departments hosted their counterparts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for tours of their spaces and demonstrations of some of their equipment.

"No one nation wants to go it alone," said GW Operations Officer Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "It's just so much better if we work as a team, which is enhanced by our port visits, community service projects, and the exchange of knowledge."

The strike group's three port visits also provided an opportunity for Sailors to get out into the local communities to make a difference through volunteerism. According to GW Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Tadeusz Gegotek, more than 1,000 Sailors worked on 41 different community service projects, devoting a total of 4,500 man-hours toward making a difference for their host cities.

"The best way to build a strong relationship is to interact with locals—but it's a small part of a much bigger picture," Gegotek said. "Whether interacting with local citizens while on liberty or through community service projects, both contribute toward the same goal—building lasting relationships with our host country."

Training was also a key element of the deployment. In order to maintain readiness in case of an at-sea emergency, Sailors completed 16 general quarters drills, during which Sailors battled simulated emergency scenarios with the ship in its highest state of readiness.

The high-tempo operations and training led to approximately 250 Sailors earning their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) qualifications since June 10, with nearly 200 Sailors attaining their Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (EAWS) qualification during that period.

"Training is essential to the mission. It is vital for Sailors to be able to react at a moments notice to keep the ship safe and ready at all times," said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Russell, GW's training officer. "Warfare qualifications are a big part of that, because more Sailors with warfare pins mean that the ship is better prepared for any situation that arises."

Throughout the course of the nearly three-month deployment, aviators flew approximately 4,500 sorties to attain and maintain the highest level of readiness in carrier operations, according to Commander CVW-5, Capt. Ross Myers. Aviators spent a total of 8,326 hours in the air sustaining their strike and anti-air warfare capabilities.

Sailors from GW's Supply Department worked around the clock providing essential services to the crew of more than 5,000. S-2 division (Food Services) prepared more than 1.3 million meals, providing the crew with a variety of options for their three meals a day. GW also conducted eight underway replenishments, receiving approximately 1,500 tons of spare parts, consumable supplies and food worth about $5 million.

Sailors from S-12 division (Postal Services) received, sorted and distributed more than 500,000 pounds of mail while underway.

"Email messages are great, but you can't email mom's cookies," said Postal Clerk 2nd Class (SW/AW) Kent Landis, leading petty officer of GW's Post Office. "You can't replace the satisfaction Sailors get when they receive a package from a loved one."

For many Sailors, GW's inaugural summer deployment from Yokosuka represented their first extended period aboard a Navy ship at sea.

Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Apprentice Christopher Jennings, a newly-reported Sailor from Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Department's IM-3 division, joined his shipmates in early August while the ship was pierside in Singapore. The native of Missoula, Mont., said he learned many lessons underway, even if it was only for a short time.

"Even though I've only been underway for a few weeks, I've managed to learn a lot," said Jennings. "It was a little intimidating at first when I arrived, but it's been a great experience so far. It's my first time out of Montana and I've already done, seen and learned so much that I'm really looking forward to seeing what's next."

GW is scheduled to head back to sea later this year for its second fall patrol.

Afghan C-27A program takes flight

by Lt. Col. Mark Hersant, 438th Air Expeditionary Advisor Group

KABUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- Test pilots, engineers and ground crews from Alenia North America performed an initial test flight of the first of 20 programmed Afghan C-27A "Spartans" recently in Italy.

The medium-sized tactical military transport remains on schedule for delivery to Naples in late September. Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan is currently refurbishing these C-27As, which will be added to the Afghan National Army Air Corps' fleet in November.

Currently, the Afghan National Army Air Corps operates seven refurbished Soviet-era fixed-wing aircraft that are familiar platforms to the aircrews and maintenance personnel. The transition to the C-27A requires significant training already underway. Over the past three months, 30 Afghan Antonov AN-26/32 pilots traveled to San Antonio to attend English Language Training and Specialized English Training at the Defense Language Institute.

After completing of up to 12 months of language training, the Afghan pilots will attend an eight-week instrument flight rules course in San Antonio, and will obtain an International Civil Aviation Organization IFR certification. Then, 10 U.S. pilots will teach the new students C-27A transition training.

"As we're already doing with the (AN-26/32s), I look forward to working with the Americans to develop the C-27(A) program for the (Afghan National Army Air Corps)," said Brig. Gen. Mohammad Barat, the Kabul Air Wing commander. "This will ensure (the Afghan National Army Air Corp will) maximize the capabilities of the aircraft."

Officials from the Air University at Maxwell AFB, Ala., recently certified eight Afghans after a three-month basic loadmaster course July 23. Their training included weight and balance theory, loading operations, passenger handling and forklift certification. This was the first loadmaster class conducted in more than 30 years, and helped prepare these personnel for transition to the C-27A. Eight U.S. mentors provided specific loadmaster training to the recent graduates.

"The C-27(A) will be good for Afghanistan because it's much easier to load," said Faizadeen Abadi, an Air University BLM course instructor. "The roller system increased capability for loading equipment access to the aircraft, and the capacity to transport larger tactical vehicles are outstanding attributes of the aircraft."

The recent graduates of the loadmaster course said they are eager to see the new aircraft.

The C-27A is a rugged, twin-engine turboprop aircraft with short take-off and landing capability. It can carry up to 23,600 pounds of cargo and fuel, as well as operate on unimproved airfields as short as 3,000 feet. This allows access to airstrips otherwise unreachable by fixed-wing aircraft. The C-27A is an adverse-weather, day and night transport with the capability to carry 44 personnel, 32 paratroopers or 36 litter patients. A three-person crew consisting of an aircraft commander, co-pilot and loadmaster is an ideal team for the remote, mountainous terrain of Afghanistan.

"I can't wait to work and fly on the C-27(A). I've heard it's modern, easier to load and capable of carrying more cargo," said Sergeant Khoshal Pashtoon Zai, an Afghan National Army Air Corps loadmaster.

California International Airshow 2009 Airshow Report

MMP reporter Claude "b52hbuff" Cartee checks in with a report from the California International Airshow in Salinas last month. Thanks for reminding me Claude that I had this. I stuck it in the airshow folder instead of the blogpost folder. My bad and a thousand lashes with a wet penguin flipper. Let the flogging begin.

Salinas Airshow
123.1500 Discrete
127.3000 Airboss
134.7000 Discrete: Hog (A-10) Safety Observer, Heritage Flight
462.7125 Robosaurus spotter (D464/FRS7)
467.6375 Rich's Incredible Pyro (233.6 Hz PL/FRS11)

Blue Angels
139.8125 Comcart B Maintenance
142.6125 Comcart A "Comcart" / Tower spotter
237.8000 Solos - out of show box
275.3500 Diamond - out of show box
284.2500 Show box - Diamonds & Solos
305.5000 Bert (C-130) / Maintenance Officer
346.5000 Preflight checklist

Thanks for sharing your intercepts with MMP readers Claude.

TRAWING 5 Welcomes New Training Aircraft

Fire trucks spray a bridge of water over two T-6B training aircraft to celebrate their arrival. The aircraft will be used to replace the venerable T-34C Turbo Mentor plane in flight training for student pilots. (U.S. Navy photo by Jay Cope/Released)

NAVAL AIR STATION WHITING FIELD, Fla. (NNS) -- Inclement weather failed to dim the enthusiasm of the more than 150 people who assembled to see the first new airframe at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in more than 30 years.

The arrival of the Texan signals the official start of the turnover from the venerable T-34C Turbo Mentor to the T-6B for primary flight training under Training Air Wing (TRAWING) 5. To mark the occasion, TRAWING-5 hosted a fly-in ceremony at 9:30 a.m. at the hangar, followed by a reception at the Joint Primary Air Training System (JPATS) building on the base.

The event featured a flyby of the new aircraft, arrival of the T-6Bs to the hangar, brief speeches, a cake cutting at the reception, and a demonstration of the T-6 simulators. Rear Adm. Mark Guadagnini, the Chief of Naval Air Training Command, served as the featured speaker.

"It is an excellent time to be involved in naval aviation," he stated. "These modern digital systems are unlike any other flown before and surpass anything here in the U.S. or other countries. Our naval and Marine Corps pilots will continue to be the best ever because of training in the T-6B."

TRAWING-5, NAS Whiting Field's major tenant command, provides primary flight training to nearly 60 percent of all Navy and Marine Corps aviators as well as to U. S. Coast Guard aviators, select Air Force pilots and flight students from Allied foreign countries. The T-34C training aircraft was implemented in 1977 and is aging. TRAWING-5 will continue receiving new aircraft at the rate of about one per week until the transition is completed in 2015. The training wing will have 156 of the new aircraft at that time. With the preponderance of new fleet aircraft utilizing digital technology, it was deemed vital to train with similar systems.

"As our students train to operate more sophisticated fleet aircraft, the more modern cockpit design of the T-6B will enable our students to receive their "Wings" and better transition to modern fleet aircraft," Col. Scott Walsh, TRAWING 5 commander said. "It is imperative that we position our students for success."

The T-6B is a faster, stronger, more efficient aircraft that features an enhanced cockpit design and avionics that make it a good first step in teaching students before they begin their fleet tours. The heads-up displays and digital readouts are an impressive improvement in technology from the T-34C.

Initially, the new aircraft will be used for training instructor pilots. Student pilots from Training Squadron 3 are expected to begin flying the new aircraft in April 2010. The new aircraft already has a fan in Lt. Cmdr. Dave Hoten, USCG, one of the instructors who will be training the instructor pilots for TRAWING-5.

Hoten was one of the two pilots who flew the aircraft for the ceremony and was excited to play such an important role in the ceremony.

"With the T-6B, there will no longer be a gap between primary training and stepping into a fleet aircraft. It is a lot of fun to fly, and the magnitude of the day was pretty amazing," he said. "It is incredible to be in on the ground floor of saying goodbye to a 30-year old proven aircraft."

USS Theodore Roosevelt Transitions to Newport News Shipyard for Complex Overhaul

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Nathan L. Lockwood, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Theodore Roosevelt (TR) (CVN 71) made the move across the James River Aug. 29 to Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News to begin the aircraft carrier's scheduled Refueling Complex Overhaul (RCOH).

During the "dead-stick" move, Sailors on the ship's bridge maneuvered the ship while it was moved by tugs en route to a dry-dock at the shipyard where it was built and commissioned nearly 25 years ago.

"RCOH is an important process for the life-span of the ship that will require the combined efforts of the shipyard and the Sailors to finish on time," said TR's commanding officer, Capt. Ladd Wheeler. "I am confident that the 'Big Stick' will complete this yard period safely and efficiently and return to the fleet in the coming years ready for full service."

A multi-year overhaul, RCOH involves the alterations, repair, maintenance, and refueling of the aircraft carrier. The RCOH enables the ship to meet future mission and continue service life requirements for approximately the next 25 years. USS Theodore Roosevelt is the fourth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to participate in the RCOH at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding.

Shortly after returning to Naval Station Norfolk on April 18, the ship began the process of preparing the ship for the transit to Newport News. This included making cuts in the ship's hull to accommodate removal and replacement of major ship components.

TR, along with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2, completed a seven-and-a-half month deployment in April during which they deployed to the Gulf of Oman in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The ship also made a historic visit to Cape Town, South Africa, and a port call in Portsmouth, England.

After successful completion of all mission requirements Theodore Roosevelt arrived at Naval Station Norfolk on May 30 and began the transition period from an operational front-line, surge capable aircraft carrier into a complex maintenance period where just about every space will undergo refurbishment to sustain the next 25 years of service. Referred to as the "Smart Start" period, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding and other maintenance activities were able to get a jump start and prepare TR for entering drydock.

"The Smart Start period allowed the crew and the shipyard to begin building the foundation work on a successful RCOH," according to Cmdr. Gunter Braun, TR's chief engineer. "Based on the results the foundation for success is well-rooted."

Theodore Roosevelt, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, was commissioned Oct. 25, 1986. The 1,092-foot ship weighs 101,000 tons and carries a crew of approximately 3,200.

GW CSG Begins Training with Nimitz CSG

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) began its participation in joint aircraft carrier operations with USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the Western Pacific Ocean Aug. 30.

The goal of the joint operation is to practice integrating the operations of embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 with Nimitz's embarked CVW-11, said Cmdr. Pete Walczak, GW's combat direction center officer.

Walczak said the opportunity to conduct joint-carrier operations doesn't present itself often, which is why GW planned part of its summer deployment schedule around it.

"It's unique for any aircraft carrier to get the chance to work with another," Walczak said. "Having another aircraft carrier near GW is not something we can always count on because of the crucial role carriers play in maintaining maritime security throughout the world."

Commander CVW-5, Capt. Ross Myers said the exercise will increase interoperability between both carrier strike groups while also preparing Nimitz Sailors and CVW-11 aviators for future combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"This is an invaluable opportunity for CVW-5 to conduct air-to-ground and air-to-air training with Nimitz, and we are capitalizing on it by flying together as much as we can," Myers said.

Walczak added that dual operations with Nimitz will present a variety of new challenges to the Sailors of GW's Operations Department.

"Successful training with Nimitz is all about proper planning," he said. "Among other things, each strike group requires a certain mileage of water and airspace, and we'll have to coordinate so our aircraft and ships don't encroach upon each other."

During the exercise, CVW-5 aviators will conduct strike training on Okino Daiti Jima's advanced range, according to Lt. Cmdr. Jerry Bartee, GW's ordnance handling officer.

The George Washington Carrier Strike Group is commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan. The strike group includes CVW-5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

GW, commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, is making its inaugural deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan in support of stability and security in the Western Pacific region. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier replaced USS Kitty Hawk last year as the Navy's forward-deployed carrier presence. The ship and crew departed Yokosuka June 10.

Russian naval Landing Ships Arrive at Baltijsk

Following extract taken from the pages of the Russian Armed Forces daily "Red Star". Translated and submitted for information and interest by "Old Crow". Date of publication 1st Sep 2009. (Translator's note/aside:- There are more Large Landing Ships than was originally thought.. Wonder which one is RFH77.. if any)

From cruising to exercising

The detachment of Large Landing Ships (BDK): "Azov", "Yamal" and "Novocherkassk" from the Black Sea Fleet, under the command of the Brigade commander - Captain 1st Rank Oleg Ignasyuk - has arrived from Sevastopol' at the Baltijsk naval base. To get here, they have traversed 8 seas, an ocean, four inlets and twelve straits. In all, they have covered a distance of some 4600 nautical miles. En route, on the approaches to Baltijsk, there was a symbolic and agreeable rendezvous when on the beam, there became visible the Large Landing Ships (BDK) "Aleksandr Otrakovskij" and "Georgij Pobedonosets" from the Northern Fleet.

The personnel of the ships of the Baltic, Black Sea and Northern Fleets were welcomed by Vice-Admiral Viktor Chirkov - carrying out the duties of CinC Baltic Fleet. He expressed his belief in the success of the forthcoming exercises (presumably Ladoga-2009) and also urged that all personnel should do their duty in an extensive and painstaking way for the successful completion of the schedule for the Strategic-Operations exercises (ie. Ladoga-2009). They should help each other, enhance a spirit of cooperation and not diminish the tempo of the combat training.

So, there's at least five large landing ships floating around in the Southern Baltic and it seems highly likely that they'll all, either collectively or separately, be involved the the exericise which is planned to run through to the end of September. There'll be other ships and aircraft involved, Leningrad Military District Ground
Force elements, Internal Security Forces, Border Guards - there should be plenty to catch your ears if you happen to point them in the direction of the Kaliningrad enclave and Central Baltic between now and the end of September.

Mesa Verde Gets First Experience with Osprey

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Hodges Pone III, USS Mesa Verde Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Members of USS Mesa Verde's (LPD 19) flight deck team had their first opportunity to provide support for an MV-22 Osprey during helicopter operations Aug. 31.

The aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (VMM 162) made six landings on the flight deck which gave the pilots a chance to train on landing and gave Mesa Verde personnel the experience of bringing an Osprey aboard the ship.

"It was a learning process for everyone because there were a lot of people on our team who hadn't worked with the Osprey before," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 1st Class (SW) Greg Kucharski. "We were able to come together and accomplish bringing the aircraft onboard faster."

Before the Osprey made its first landing, there were measures put in place to ensure the safety of personnel working on the flight deck. Air Department utilized special equipment to make sure this happened in addition to receiving support from the pilot.

"This evolution was a great learning experience for our Flight Deck Team," said Lt. Dee Gordon, Mesa Verde Air Boss. "Through coordination between the V-22 flight crew and the hard work of our own team onboard, we were able to accomplish this first landing of the V-22 onboard Mesa Verde safely and without incident."

"This was my first time seeing an Osprey which is a very large aircraft," said Hull Technician 3rd Class Derek Bunch of the ship's repair division and flight deck team member. "With it being a bigger aircraft, there was a strong downwash. We did all we could to make sure all of the members of the team were safe and this was an overall safe evolution."

During one of the landings, the crew of the Osprey picked up members of Combat Logistics Battalion 24. Members of VMM 162 were impressed by how the Air Department was able to get the helicopter onboard as efficiently as they did.

"The flight deck crew handled bringing the helicopter aboard well," said Sgt. Zachary Brown of VMM 162. "They were fast in getting the Osprey on deck as well as off."

"I'm especially proud of the ship's flight deck crew," said Gordon. "They are the best in the Navy."

Milcom Blog Logs - August 2009 - Mid Atlantic

Ron, a member of the MMP team, passed along the following frequencies monitored in August from his Mid Atlantic monitoring post. Thanks Ron for sharing your frequency list with my readers.

ACY-Atlantic City NJ
ADW- Andrews AFB MD
BW- Bay Watch-NAS PAX Area Advisory Control
DAA- Davison AAF, Ft Belvoir VA
DCA- Reagan National Airport/CGAS Washington
DOV- Dover AFB DE
GK- Giantkiller (FACSFAC, Virginia Capes)
LFI- Langley AFB VA
MTN-Martin State Airport, Baltimore
NGTF-Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
NXX- Willow Grove JRB PA
PAX-NAS Patuxent River MD
PTC- Potomac Area TRACON
WRI-McGuire AFB NJ
ZBW-Boston ARTCC
ZDC- Washington ARTCC
ZNY- New York ARTCC

118.125 GK W386
118.400 ADW tower
118.950 PTC
119.275 BW
119.300 PTC
119.850 PTC
120.050 PAX A/D
121.000 PAX A/D
121.300 MTN tower (MD ANG)
123.200 NTPS PAX
123.225 NGTF
123.400 FAA Ops DAA & ACY
125.900 DOV arrival
126.150 Phillips AAF Aberdeen MD
126.200 Weide AAF Aberdeen MD
126.300 DAA tower
126.350 DOV tower
126.550 PTC
127.950 PAX A/D
132.425 DOV A/D
133.900 ZDC Calvert
134.100 DOV & McGuire CP
134.350 Washington Helo Control (DCA)
134.425 DOV A/D
135.025 PAX A/D

138.000 134FS VT ANG F-16 Air-Air (AM mode)
138.125 119FS NJ ANG ACY (AM mode)
138.200 119FS NJ ANG ACY (AM mode)
138.425 119FS NJ ANG ACY (AM mode)
138.875 119FS NJ ANG ACY (AM mode)
139.000 104FS MD ANG A-A (AM mode)
139.150 121FS DC ANG ADW (AM mode)
139.300 ADW PTD (AM mode)
139.400 DAA Operations (AM mode)
139.700 Huntress (AM mode)
139.875 McGuire Tanker Interplane (AM mode)
141.550 Griffin Command Post (ADW) (AM mode)
141.700 1st Helo Sqdn Operations (AM mode)
141.750 Langley AFB Dispatch (AM mode)
143.150 121FS DC ANG ADW (AM mode)
143.600 121FS DC ANG ADW (AM mode)

227.125 ZDC Hagerstown
228.450 LFI A-A
229.400 Weide AAF Ops (MD ArNG)
233.550 PA ANG A-A NXX
233.700 GK W72
236.825 ZDC Snow Hill
237.200 Bollen Range, Ft Indiantown GAP PA
238.100 GK W386
238.900 AR 636 primary
239.050 ZNY Lancaster
239.800 McGuire/Langley Metro
249.100 Unidentified
249.800 GK W386
250.300 PAX A/D
250.700 VX-23 Ops PAX
250.850 BW
251.250 LFI CP (Raymond 16)
254.300 ZDC Coyle
255.400 Leesburg Radio
256.500 BW
256.800 ZDC Cape Charles
257.200 PTC
257.700 ZDC Salisbury
257.875 DOV A/D
259.100 ZBW Sardi
260.900 Guard Dog CAP
261.000 Devil Ops 119th FS NJ ANG ACY
262.025 LFI A-A
262.950 Echo Control, PAX
264.150 NTPS Ops PAX
264.550 Echo Control PAX
268.800 NAS Chambers VA Ops
269.425 unid ZDC
270.275 PTC A./D
270.350 ZDC Shenandoah
270.300 ZNY Lancaster
270.800 BW
273.950 HMX-1 discrete, MCAF Quantico VA
274.450 AAR discrete
278.300 ZNY Pottstown
279.575 PTC fly by controller
281.200 Invader Jack A-A
281.400 ZDC Calvert
281.450 ZDC Atlantic City (changed from Sea Isle)
281.525 Harrisburg A/D
281.800 PAX A/D
282.200 ZDC Casanova
282.300 ZNY Kennedy
284.700 ZDC Montebello
285.400 ZDC Casino
285.600 ZDC Blue Ridge
288.000 AWACS discrete
288.400 Huntress
290.200 ZNY Yardley
290.425 ZDC Franklin
291.200 GK discrete
292.200 1st Helo Sqdn ADW-A-A
292.300 W386 common
297.200 MTN tower
299.400 PAX test discrete
299.700 ZBW Calverton
305.200 BW
306.200 ZNY Phillipsburg
306.800 NXX Ops
307.025 ZDC Potomac
307.325 ZOB Altoona
310.550 Echo Control PAX
311.000 Steel Control (PA ANG Pittsburgh)
312.300 W386 common (LFI 36 prime)
314.000 PAX A/D
317.425 PTC departure
322.550 ZDC Linden
323.300 ZNY Lancaster
327.000 ZDC Brooke
328.400 VR-53 Ops ADW
338.300 ZNY Williamsport
335.500 PTC A/D
335.600 ZNY Modena
342.000 DOV Metro
347.200 Raven Ops (MTN)
348.725 PTC
349.000 ADW tower
349.400 DOV CP
351.200 Liberator CP (756th ARS ADW)
351.900 ZDC Gordonsville
354.000 ZNY Oceanic (Barnegat)
354.150 ZDC Kenton
354.000 BW
357.100 71st FS Ops LFI
356.200 PAX Metro
360.150 LFI A-A (DC CAP)
360.700 ZDC Swann
360.850 ZDC Irons
363.000 ZDC Woodstowne
363.075 ZOB Altoona
365.700 PAX test discrete
370.925 Norfolk approach
371.900 Norfolk A/D
372.200 ADW Dispatch
373.100 GK discrete W386
378.100 Griffin CP (ADW)
378.200 Coronet 31 C1
379.300 ZDC Martinsburg
381.300 Pope AFB NC CP
383.200 LFI SOF
384.100 Crab Ops, 135th CP MTN
395.100 Baton CP (193rd SOG PA ANG)-Harrisburg PA

If you folks in the Mid-Atlantic area are looking for a good milair frequency list, you now have it courtesy of Ron. Thanks again Ron.

AF general thanks Coast Guard for continuous shuttle support

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) -- The Air Forces Northern commander and overseer of the Joint Task Force-Space Transportation System visited the Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral, Fla., to express his thanks to the team for their continued support of the JTF-STS mission.

"NASA's mission is one of international importance, and your work to ensure the safety and security of the astronauts and ground crew does not go unnoticed," Maj. Gen. Hank Morrow, told the Coast Guard members during a recent visit to the unit supporting STS-128. STS-128 launched Aug. 28 from Cape Canaveral.

"This is truly a multiorganizational, joint effort, in which you play a starring role, and I wanted to express my thanks to you for your dedication and support," the general said.

Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral has been providing security to NASA since the shuttle's first launch in 1981, and has been on call for more than 500 space missions. During shuttle missions, the JTF-STS requests support from the Coast Guard to support launch operations by providing maritime security for NASA's and the Air Force's critical infrastructure and assisting with range safety.

The JTF-STS team's role is twofold: provide search and rescue capabilities for the astronauts and recovery of the orbiter in the event of a contingency; and support NASA if consequence management is required.

"It means a great deal to us to have General Morrow recognize our efforts in support of the shuttle mission," said Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer 3 James Dubea, the Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral commanding officer. "This is what we train to do on a daily basis, and we're proud to be a part of protecting this highly-visible national asset."