by Tech. Sgt. Randy Redman, Thunderbirds Public Affairs
SUBANG AIR BASE, Malaysia (AFNS) -- Royalty, foreign diplomats, senior military members and civilians alike welcomed the members of the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron with open arms as the Thunderbirds arrived at Subang Air Base Sept. 30 for the third stop on their Far East Tour.
Lt. Col. Derek Routt, the Thunderbirds' operations officer, said the team was in Malaysia to represent the Air Force and America and strengthen the partnership with Malaysia and its military.
The city itself has a cosmopolitan air with bustling streets and shining modern office towers that project an unbounded spirit of progress and symbolize Malaysia's unhesitating leap into the future. Kuala Lumpur is home to the Petronas Towers, the tallest twin buildings in the world. Kuala Lumpur boasts an estimated population of 1.6 million, and the surrounding greater Klang Valley metropolitan area is pushing the 5 million mark and is the fastest growing metropolitan area in Malaysia.
"I've been to the region before to places like Thailand and (South) Korea, and Malaysia was exactly what I expected," Colonel Routt said. "The technological advancements of Kuala Lumpur rival that of any global city."
However, the locals had something much different to see in the sky over the city Oct. 3, when more than 45,000 people converged on the Royal Malaysian Air Force Base to see the Thunderbirds performance.
Distinguished visitors in attendance included the sultan of Selangor, the secretary general of the ministry of defence, the chief of defence forces and the host for the airshow the new chief of the Royal Malaysian Air Force, General Dato'Rodzali bin Daud. American Ambassador to Malaysia James Keith traveled to the airshow site to personally welcome the team.
The Thunderbirds' airshow represented skill, precision and airpower; however, Colonel Routt said the team's visit to Malaysia was about much more than an airshow. He explained that he felt his role as an ambassador was to continue fostering friendship in the region to help promote security and stability in the Pacific.
"It's about interacting and getting to know the people; that lets you truly experience what a place has to offer," he said.
The Thunderbirds presence in Malaysia is very timely, said Brig. Gen. Dato' Ansar Ali Majeth, Royal Malaysian air force director general operations and exercises. At a time when efforts are being made to enhance country-to-country and air force-to-air force relations, the airshow and interaction with the local community was perfect.
"Although I've been in the service many years, it was the first time I've seen (the show) live," General Ansar said. "I've no doubt they are some of the best demo pilots in the world. As a pilot, I can appreciate the skills it takes to perform such a show."
He also added that it was about much more than an aerial performance.
"Seeing the way (the Thunderbirds) interact with the crowd and seeing the crowd response, it's obvious they are doing a good job," the general said.
"It is truly an honor and a humbling experience for me to be here, and I hope to represent Americans well in every country we visit," said Colonel Routt, referring to the upcoming stops on the Thunderbirds' Far East tour.
In the next few weeks, the team will also visit Guam, Thailand, Japan and South Korea.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Interesting EAM ttraffic monitored on west coast last night
One of the top milcom monitors on the west coast, Matt Cawby in Washington, picked up some interesting Emergency Action Message (EAM) traffic late last night PDT and posted it to the Milcom list.
On 6739.0 kHz at 0530z, Andrews broadcast a 20-character EAM for Region Alpha, then followed with two 6-character EAMs, and a 20-character EAM for Region Bravo and Region Charlie.
A close friend of this blog Jeff Haverlah out in Houston earlier in the evening reported:
"15016.0 kHz was active at 0130z with EXTENSION (weak/fair levels here) broadcasting a 28-character EAM (Preamble-67L6BR) and simulcasting same on at least 11175.0 kHz (good levels) with nothing heard on 8992.0 or 4724.0 kHz."
Back on 29 Sep 2009 at 0521z a 6-character EAM was broadcast for Region Alpha.
Now do any of my readers here have some background on these regions that these EAMs are aimed for? If you know, and want to remain anonymous, drop me an email at n5fpw at brmemc dot net.
Also if you have monitored an EAM I would like to know about it. The minimum reporting requirements I am looking for are the start time (UTC), frequency / frequencies, the six character preamble, how many characters total (including premable) were broadcast and which station or unit transmitted the EAM.
Any help from our worldwide readers is sincerely appreciated and will be summarized here on this blog. Same email address as above will work for these reports as well.
On 6739.0 kHz at 0530z, Andrews broadcast a 20-character EAM for Region Alpha, then followed with two 6-character EAMs, and a 20-character EAM for Region Bravo and Region Charlie.
A close friend of this blog Jeff Haverlah out in Houston earlier in the evening reported:
"15016.0 kHz was active at 0130z with EXTENSION (weak/fair levels here) broadcasting a 28-character EAM (Preamble-67L6BR) and simulcasting same on at least 11175.0 kHz (good levels) with nothing heard on 8992.0 or 4724.0 kHz."
Back on 29 Sep 2009 at 0521z a 6-character EAM was broadcast for Region Alpha.
Now do any of my readers here have some background on these regions that these EAMs are aimed for? If you know, and want to remain anonymous, drop me an email at n5fpw at brmemc dot net.
Also if you have monitored an EAM I would like to know about it. The minimum reporting requirements I am looking for are the start time (UTC), frequency / frequencies, the six character preamble, how many characters total (including premable) were broadcast and which station or unit transmitted the EAM.
Any help from our worldwide readers is sincerely appreciated and will be summarized here on this blog. Same email address as above will work for these reports as well.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
DoD Announces Units for Next Iraq Rotation and Extension
The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of the next force rotation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The announcement involves three brigade combat teams, and one armored cavalry regiment totaling approximately 15,000 personnel. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the summer of 2010.
These units will serve as advise and assist brigades and will replace redeploying units, with no increase in overall force levels.
Specific units receiving deployment orders include:
4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Wahiawa, Hawaii
3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas
4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas
Additionally, the secretary of defense approved a request by the commander of Multi-National Forces-Iraq (MNF-I) to extend the deployment of the 1st Cavalry Division Headquarters for up to an additional 23 days, and elements of the II Marine Expeditionary Force for up to an additional 79 days.
The extensions will ensure that key capabilities are maintained during the critical period following the January elections, and provide additional support for the orderly redeployment of the remaining Marine Corps forces and equipment.
These units will serve as advise and assist brigades and will replace redeploying units, with no increase in overall force levels.
Specific units receiving deployment orders include:
4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Wahiawa, Hawaii
3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas
4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas
Additionally, the secretary of defense approved a request by the commander of Multi-National Forces-Iraq (MNF-I) to extend the deployment of the 1st Cavalry Division Headquarters for up to an additional 23 days, and elements of the II Marine Expeditionary Force for up to an additional 79 days.
The extensions will ensure that key capabilities are maintained during the critical period following the January elections, and provide additional support for the orderly redeployment of the remaining Marine Corps forces and equipment.
GW Departs Yokosuka for 2009 Fall Deployment
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) By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group departed Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), Japan Oct. 6 for its second annual fall deployment in support of maritime security and to participate in ANNUALEX 2009, the premiere bilateral exercise between the U.S. and Japan.
USS George Washington (CVN 73) recently completed a month-long maintenance and repair period at CFAY after returning from her inaugural summer deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations Sept. 3.
"As we sail back to sea, we look forward to building upon the successes of our inaugural summer deployment fostering strong and positive relationships with numerous global maritime partners throughout the 7th Fleet area of responsibility," said GW's Commanding Officer Capt. David A. Lausman. "The crew of the George Washington and Carrier Air Wing Five enjoy working closely with navies in complex training environments building interoperability and understanding.
"The real strength in building a true global maritime partnership is an exposure to the manner in which we each analyze and address the various security issues of the region. The unique diversity each partner brings to the problem solving table translates directly to increased security and stability throughout our critical shared maritime environment."
A key element of this year's fall patrol will be GW working alongside the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force as part of the largest and most complex yearly bilateral military exercise between Japan and the United States.
"Our participation in ANNUALEX is important because it enhances the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Japan" said GW's Operations Officer, Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "Being able to work closely with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force allows us to build closer ties with our host country while at the same time helping us to work efficiently as a team in a time of crisis."
Commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin Donegan, the George Washington Carrier Strike Group with more than 5,000 Sailors, is also comprised of Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15), and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).
Gen. Wyatt: Associate missions must continue
The Air National Guard's associate missions with the active duty and Air Force Reserve need to continue beyond the new missions formed after Base Realignment and Closure in 2005, the director of the Air Guard said here Oct. 6.
Lt. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III told members of the Minuteman Institute for National Defense Studies that the Air Guard's "great talent" flowed into new, associate missions following BRAC, thanks to its participation in total force integration.
"Those were the days where it was easy to put together an association, because the Air Guard after BRAC had manpower available ... and so there were opportunities to do what Guardsmen do and to transition and adapt and move into these new mission sets and form these units," said Wyatt, who sat on a BRAC Total Force steering committee at that time.
Air Guard officials said TFI aligns the Air Force's equipment, missions, infrastructure and manpower to use assets effectively and efficiently.
"Total force" has been a Department of Defense policy for more than 35 years, but associate units surged in the early 2000s.
Three of the Air Guard's newest associate wings officially stood up Oct. 1, including the 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., and the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Birmingham ANGB, Ala. Those units conduct aerial refueling missions with the KC-135 Stratotankers.
The Air Guard leads 66 other TFI initiatives, but not all of those initiatives involve associate units. Officials said the latest chief of staff of the Air Force-approved TFI list contains 138 TFI initiatives, of which 96 impact the Air Guard.
"We need to continue doing that," General Wyatt said.
General Wyatt also pointed out that new weapons systems operate 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year as opposed to dated concepts of an eight-hour-a-day work cycle. Those systems, he said, require the manpower available to run them and their support missions.
"If we don't go to TFI constructs, and if we don't get the Guard concurrently and proportionally bedded down in this new capability, we will find ourselves limited, not by the platform, but limited by the manpower available to fly the mission," General Wyatt said.
Lt. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III told members of the Minuteman Institute for National Defense Studies that the Air Guard's "great talent" flowed into new, associate missions following BRAC, thanks to its participation in total force integration.
"Those were the days where it was easy to put together an association, because the Air Guard after BRAC had manpower available ... and so there were opportunities to do what Guardsmen do and to transition and adapt and move into these new mission sets and form these units," said Wyatt, who sat on a BRAC Total Force steering committee at that time.
Air Guard officials said TFI aligns the Air Force's equipment, missions, infrastructure and manpower to use assets effectively and efficiently.
"Total force" has been a Department of Defense policy for more than 35 years, but associate units surged in the early 2000s.
Three of the Air Guard's newest associate wings officially stood up Oct. 1, including the 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., and the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Birmingham ANGB, Ala. Those units conduct aerial refueling missions with the KC-135 Stratotankers.
The Air Guard leads 66 other TFI initiatives, but not all of those initiatives involve associate units. Officials said the latest chief of staff of the Air Force-approved TFI list contains 138 TFI initiatives, of which 96 impact the Air Guard.
"We need to continue doing that," General Wyatt said.
General Wyatt also pointed out that new weapons systems operate 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year as opposed to dated concepts of an eight-hour-a-day work cycle. Those systems, he said, require the manpower available to run them and their support missions.
"If we don't go to TFI constructs, and if we don't get the Guard concurrently and proportionally bedded down in this new capability, we will find ourselves limited, not by the platform, but limited by the manpower available to fly the mission," General Wyatt said.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Milcom Blog Logs - Oct 1-5, 2009 - Mid Atlantic
Ron, a member of the MMP team, passed along the following HF frequencies monitored in from his Mid Atlantic monitoring post. Thanks Ron for sharing your frequency list with my readers.
1 Oct
05402.0 FC8FEM006 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 6 Denver CO): 0130 USB/ALE sounding. Also sounding on 03441.0 USB.
2 Oct
08912.0 AAA (Israeli Air Force): 2100 USB/ALE sounding.
4 Oct
08346.0 Unid: CW w/5-ltr groups. Probable Cuban DGI.
05 Oct
08847.0 AA1 (Israeli Air Force): 0100 USB/ALE sounding.
1 Oct
05402.0 FC8FEM006 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 6 Denver CO): 0130 USB/ALE sounding. Also sounding on 03441.0 USB.
2 Oct
08912.0 AAA (Israeli Air Force): 2100 USB/ALE sounding.
4 Oct
08346.0 Unid: CW w/5-ltr groups. Probable Cuban DGI.
05 Oct
08847.0 AA1 (Israeli Air Force): 0100 USB/ALE sounding.
Africa Exercise Strengthens Communications
By Marine Corps Sgt. Rocco DeFilippis, Special to American Forces Press Service
LIBREVILLE, Gabon - Nearly 200 people from 26 countries and three international organizations came together in Gabon to participate in Exercise Africa Endeavor.
The annual exercise, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command, aims to help African militaries improve their communications capabilities. The exercise this year began Sept. 29 and ends tomorrow.
The exercise focuses on two important areas of military communications: data, which includes the hardware and software of computer networks, and radio, used to send voice and data transmissions.
Marine Corps Sgt. Zach D. Zapotoski, exercise data chief/lead planner, said the purpose of the exercise is to bring communicators from throughout the various economic regions of Africa to evaluate and standardize communication plans.
"We are testing to ensure that all of the different kinds of gear that each participant uses is compatible," Zapotoski said. "Through this process we are collecting data, identifying gaps and shortfalls, and then working to address the areas where those gaps occur."
According to Marine Corps Capt. Dave Fuller, exercise technical director, the effort to standardize is one of the main goals of the exercise.
"The first goal is to increase the interoperability with the countries that are going to be working with each other in the different African Standby Forces," Fuller said.
Because each nation brings different capabilities, experience levels and operating methods, establishing standard operating procedures is key to future success, said Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Kish, exercise test network coordinator.
"The most important thing is that we are establishing [standard operating procedures]," Kish said. "It's important because as the African nations work together in the future or when we work with them in the future, we can have that data to look at to see what worked and what needs a solution."
In addition to the technical and professional aspects of the exercise, Fuller said, another important goal is to build and strengthen relationships.
"Our second goal is to pair up these nations to not only build up partner relations between us, but also to create and bolster partnerships between the African countries as well," Fuller said.
The exercise is broken down into phases in order to establish the standard operating procedures and collect all of the necessary data. Both the radio and data portions have three phases of execution throughout the exercise.
In the first phase of the radio portion of the exercise, each nation uses internal testing to ensure that everyone's equipment is compatible and functioning properly, Marine Corps Sgt. Christian Valencia said.
"Each nation generally has the same types of gear, but brands and capabilities vary," he said. "So, in this first phase we are ironing out compatibility issues to get the ball rolling for the next phase."
During the first phase, Valencia said, all of the internal testing happens between radios on the site here.
From the testing phase, the radio communicators move to the second phase where they reach back to their home nation to establish communications. During the third phase, participants communicate from the host site to sites within other countries.
"We are taking the results of the various tests and compile them into a single package that can be used for future reference," Valencia said.
The phases for the data portion of the exercise run along similar lines as the radio portion, Zapotoski said.
During the first phase, each nation partnered with one other nation and constructed and tested their network.
For the second phase, the nations are building and testing a series of interconnected computers that share data within their associated economic region. And in the last phase, the regional networks will be tied together to simulate a wide-area network.
"Our goal is to be able to identify and configure a routing protocol that can be used to communicate on a basic level," Zapotoski said.
A quick visit to one of the tents or buildings on the site reveals that the exercise involves even more than technical exploits and data gathering.
The exercise has provided the U.S. and African participants with an opportunity to build professional and personal relationships, Fuller said.
"It's a rare opportunity to interact with military representatives from 25 different countries at one time," Kish said. "So there have been plenty of chances to interact with each other and share in each other's culture."
"The whole experience has been tremendous," Zambian Warrant Officer 2 Lufuma Augustine added. "In the sense that we are all Africans and we each face similar problems, being able to cooperate and work together to solve some problems is very nice."
Various events designed to increase interaction and cultural sharing are built into the exercise itself, Fuller said, including traditional meals, social gatherings, team sports and even the exercise's location, which is held in a different country each year to promote cultural exchange.
For this year's exercise, even the initial and mid-planning conferences were held in different countries.
"That's what this exercise is really all about," Fuller said. "Getting on the same sheet of music, as far as communication is concerned, and building those relationships so that these partner nations can work together in the future."
LIBREVILLE, Gabon - Nearly 200 people from 26 countries and three international organizations came together in Gabon to participate in Exercise Africa Endeavor.
The annual exercise, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command, aims to help African militaries improve their communications capabilities. The exercise this year began Sept. 29 and ends tomorrow.
The exercise focuses on two important areas of military communications: data, which includes the hardware and software of computer networks, and radio, used to send voice and data transmissions.
Marine Corps Sgt. Zach D. Zapotoski, exercise data chief/lead planner, said the purpose of the exercise is to bring communicators from throughout the various economic regions of Africa to evaluate and standardize communication plans.
"We are testing to ensure that all of the different kinds of gear that each participant uses is compatible," Zapotoski said. "Through this process we are collecting data, identifying gaps and shortfalls, and then working to address the areas where those gaps occur."
According to Marine Corps Capt. Dave Fuller, exercise technical director, the effort to standardize is one of the main goals of the exercise.
"The first goal is to increase the interoperability with the countries that are going to be working with each other in the different African Standby Forces," Fuller said.
Because each nation brings different capabilities, experience levels and operating methods, establishing standard operating procedures is key to future success, said Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Kish, exercise test network coordinator.
"The most important thing is that we are establishing [standard operating procedures]," Kish said. "It's important because as the African nations work together in the future or when we work with them in the future, we can have that data to look at to see what worked and what needs a solution."
In addition to the technical and professional aspects of the exercise, Fuller said, another important goal is to build and strengthen relationships.
"Our second goal is to pair up these nations to not only build up partner relations between us, but also to create and bolster partnerships between the African countries as well," Fuller said.
The exercise is broken down into phases in order to establish the standard operating procedures and collect all of the necessary data. Both the radio and data portions have three phases of execution throughout the exercise.
In the first phase of the radio portion of the exercise, each nation uses internal testing to ensure that everyone's equipment is compatible and functioning properly, Marine Corps Sgt. Christian Valencia said.
"Each nation generally has the same types of gear, but brands and capabilities vary," he said. "So, in this first phase we are ironing out compatibility issues to get the ball rolling for the next phase."
During the first phase, Valencia said, all of the internal testing happens between radios on the site here.
From the testing phase, the radio communicators move to the second phase where they reach back to their home nation to establish communications. During the third phase, participants communicate from the host site to sites within other countries.
"We are taking the results of the various tests and compile them into a single package that can be used for future reference," Valencia said.
The phases for the data portion of the exercise run along similar lines as the radio portion, Zapotoski said.
During the first phase, each nation partnered with one other nation and constructed and tested their network.
For the second phase, the nations are building and testing a series of interconnected computers that share data within their associated economic region. And in the last phase, the regional networks will be tied together to simulate a wide-area network.
"Our goal is to be able to identify and configure a routing protocol that can be used to communicate on a basic level," Zapotoski said.
A quick visit to one of the tents or buildings on the site reveals that the exercise involves even more than technical exploits and data gathering.
The exercise has provided the U.S. and African participants with an opportunity to build professional and personal relationships, Fuller said.
"It's a rare opportunity to interact with military representatives from 25 different countries at one time," Kish said. "So there have been plenty of chances to interact with each other and share in each other's culture."
"The whole experience has been tremendous," Zambian Warrant Officer 2 Lufuma Augustine added. "In the sense that we are all Africans and we each face similar problems, being able to cooperate and work together to solve some problems is very nice."
Various events designed to increase interaction and cultural sharing are built into the exercise itself, Fuller said, including traditional meals, social gatherings, team sports and even the exercise's location, which is held in a different country each year to promote cultural exchange.
For this year's exercise, even the initial and mid-planning conferences were held in different countries.
"That's what this exercise is really all about," Fuller said. "Getting on the same sheet of music, as far as communication is concerned, and building those relationships so that these partner nations can work together in the future."
DoD Announces Replacement Units for Afghanistan Rotation
The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of the next rotation operating in Afghanistan. This announcement involves a combat brigade and combat aviation brigade totaling approximately 6,100 service members. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the spring and continue through the summer of 2010.
The spring rotation of approximately 2,800 soldiers of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, from Fort Campbell, Ky, continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the level of forces necessary to provide sufficient military capability for the NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to further improve security and stability operations.
The summer rotation of approximately 3,300 soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Co, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, will continue the ongoing training and mentoring mission of Afghan National Security Forces in Afghanistan.
In consultation with Afghan officials and NATO, commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure sufficient force levels to best support the Government of Afghanistan, perform counter-terrorism operations, assist with reconstruction, and train and equip the Afghan National Security Forces.
The spring rotation of approximately 2,800 soldiers of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, from Fort Campbell, Ky, continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the level of forces necessary to provide sufficient military capability for the NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to further improve security and stability operations.
The summer rotation of approximately 3,300 soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Co, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, will continue the ongoing training and mentoring mission of Afghan National Security Forces in Afghanistan.
In consultation with Afghan officials and NATO, commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure sufficient force levels to best support the Government of Afghanistan, perform counter-terrorism operations, assist with reconstruction, and train and equip the Afghan National Security Forces.
Bonhomme Richard ARG Enters 7th Fleet
The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J Kaiser (T-AO 187). Bonhomme Richard, the flagship for the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, is on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah E. Bitter/Released)BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), entered the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations Oct. 2 as part of its regularly scheduled deployment to promote peace, cooperation and stability in the region.
Led by Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG consists of three ships — amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).
"We have a great Navy, Marine Corps team and offer a full range of operational capabilities. We look forward to operating in the 7th Fleet and playing a role in regional security and cooperation," said Clark. "We are also prepared to provide assistance in the region when called upon."
The ARG's 2,300 personnel make up the Navy component of a multicapable team that also includes 2,200 embarked Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), commanded by Col. Gregg Olson.
Capt. John Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer, is also looking forward to operating in the 7th Fleet region.
"We are looking forward to every opportunity to build friendships and enhance partnerships in the region and wherever we visit, to show our hosts the best ambassadors the United States has to offer – the Sailors and Marines of Bonhomme Richard," said Funk.
In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.
The 7th Fleet operating area includes more than half of the world's population and more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian Oceans — stretching from the International Date Line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.
The Bonhomme Richard ARG is transiting the 7th Fleet Area of Operations and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
McInerney Sets Sail for Final Deployment
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sunday E. Williams, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Detachment Southeast
MAYPORT, Fla (NNS) -- Family, friends and military gathered aboard Naval Station Mayport Oct. 5 to bid safe farewell to USS McInerney (FFG 8) as they set sail for their final deployment.
The McInerney will be the first gas turbine propelled ship to complete 30 years of service during their six-month deployment. All other ships of this kind have decommissioned prior to accomplishing this significant milestone.
According to McInerney's Command Master Chief, CMDCM (SW/AW/SCW) John T. Lawry this milestone pleases more than just the ship's current crew and the Navy.
"The pride I feel to have served on a warship with the history that McInerney possesses is indescribable. This ship was commissioned before anyone currently serving on her was in the Navy, and before many of her Sailors were even born. This accomplishment is a great testament to all who have sailed on her that this ship has performed at high levels for this long," said Lawry.
People not serving aboard McInerney felt that same pride about the ship's many years of success.
"I have watched this ship pull in and out of this harbor for years," said Neptune Beach local, "Buzz" Wilks. "I never get tired of watching ships leave full of Sailors, full of our country's angels setting out to serve, but nothing makes me happier than seeing them return home, and this one is going to come back having served this great country for 30 years. Now that's really something."
Lawry said the ship and its crew have many accomplishments, but he does have one that stands out.
"The accomplishments of any warship, let alone one with 30 years of service are so numerous and lengthy that I would do injustice trying to name them all. The accomplishment that stands out most to me during my tour would be the first capture of a SPSS (Drug Sub) by the crew while on deployment in 2008. Our combined efforts resulted in legislation being created to help stem the flow of illegal drugs into the United States and its allies," said Lawry.
The SPSS or self-propelled semi-submersible vessel Lawry referred to was carrying an estimated $107 million worth of cocaine that never hit the streets of the United States. Lawry said it is always great to take part in something so significant but the goal of every deployment is always bigger, it's always about safety.
"If you asked me what the goal of the deployment is I would answer that it is to bring back everyone we left with to their families and loved ones. Everything else that we accomplish as a team just makes my job that much more satisfying – but our primary goal whether it's for deployment, or just for a day, is to bring everyone home safely in the same condition or better than when we left."
Lawry's pride goes beyond the accomplishments of the ship and of its future milestone; his pride is in the crew.
"It is hard to describe my feelings for this crew and the growth they have shown as a whole during my tour aboard. We have been faced with so many challenges in such a short time it's seriously mind boggling. Watching these young men work together and put aside differences to accomplish something that was a huge undertaking is especially gratifying. I am proud to serve as the command master chief of such a hard working and professional group of individuals all who strive to improve and grow on a daily basis."
As McInerney sets out to unknown obstacles and achievements, people walk away already awaiting their return.
Air Force officials dedicate C-130 to Army's 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan
Servicemembers assembled on the flightline to tour a C-130 Hercules from the 440th Airlift Wing at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., Oct. 5, 2009, at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. The C-130 was dedicated to the Army's 82nd Airborne Division in honor of the cohesion of the Air Force and the Army in Afghanistan and was put on display for servicemembers to view the aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Felicia Juenke) by Tech. Sgt. John Jung, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- Air Force officials here dedicated a C-130 Hercules to the Soldiers of the Army's 82nd Airborne Division stationed in Afghanistan Oct. 5 at Bagram Airfield.
The transport was originally dedicated at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., Oct. 25, 2008, to Fort Bragg's entire 82nd Airborne Division based in North Carolina.
Tail number 79282 from the Air Force Reserve 440th Airlift Wing from Pope AFB has official nose art prominently displaying an American eagle in flight surrounding the iconic 82nd Airborne's insignia wings on the aircraft's fuselage. The plane also sports "Bragg-Pope" on its tail flash representing the close relationship between the Fort Bragg and Pope AFB.
Using the total force, an active duty crew deployed from the 2nd Airlift Squadron, an associate unit of the 440th AW, to fly the Reserve C-130 to Bagram Afghanistan. The crew included Capt. Alan Rathjen and Capt. Laura Easton, both C-130 pilots, and Staff Sgt. Matt Metz, C-130 loadmaster.
"The aircraft is being dedicated to the 82nd in honor of the cohesion of the Air Force and the Army in the fight in Afghanistan," said Captain Rathjen, a native of St. Louis who is assigned to the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron.
While the dedication was symbolic in nature, the tangible effects of the C-130 are felt every day by Airmen and Soldiers alike.
"A few days ago we airdropped (Meals, Ready to Eat) and water down to Soldiers at a (forward operating base)," said Captain Easton of the 774th EAS and a native of Pittsburgh. "It's the mission we trained for at the 2nd AS and (one) we're ready to employ here for the joint fight."
"I came here to be a part of history," said Army Master Sgt. John Plasse, assigned to the 38th Infantry Division and an Afghan national security forces liaison. "It's great to have something you've worked in, flown into and out of combat with ... and then it's gotten you home safely all those times ... dedicated to you and your fellow Soldiers."
Bringing critical supplies via airdrop to Soldiers on the ground is what the C-130 is suited to and is excelling at in Afghanistan. C-130s at Bagram Airfield average between five and eight tons of cargo per airdrop mission.
Continuing the overall mission to feed, fuel and arm the fight, September marked the fourth consecutive month in which an increase of supplies was airdropped by the Air Force to coalition partners and local citizens across Afghanistan.
In total, 4.1 million pounds of goods were dropped to forward operating bases, combat outposts and other austere locations in support of ground forces.
"It's our day-to-day job," said Sergeant Metz of the 774th EAS who is a native of Springfield, Va. "I'm proud to have brought this C-130 to Afghanistan for the dedication, but I'm more gratified being the loadmaster who gets to airdrop (supplies) to the guys on the ground."
Airdrops have proven to be a safe and reliable method for delivering vital supplies into locations where roads don't exist, the terrain is too mountainous, the cargo is too heavy for helicopters or where the insurgent threat is too great.
ACC officials hold bomb wing transition summit
Responsibility for Air Combat Command's three nuclear-capable bomb wings will transition from ACC to Air Force Global Strike Command Feb. 1, 2010, and include bomber forces, like the B-2 Spirit shown here from the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., as well as bombers from the 2nd BW at Barksdale AFB, La., and the 5th BW at Minot AFB, N.D. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Kenny Holston)by Tech. Sgt. Mike Slater, Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFNS) -- Staff members from Air Combat Command and Air Force Global Strike Command along with representatives from Headquarters Air Force and U.S. Strategic Command met Sep. 30 to work on solutions for the smooth transition of ACC's three bomb wings with nuclear missions to AFGSC.
On Feb. 1, 2010, control of ACC's three nuclear-capable bomb wings -- the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La.; the 5th BW at Minot AFB, N.D.; and the 509th BW at Whiteman AFB, Mo. -- will move to AFGSC, with headquarters located at Barksdale.
This is the first in a series of responsibility transfer summits.
"Our goal is to make sure that we have a very smooth and safe handoff of the functions that are accomplished at the (major command level) between Air Combat Command and Global Strike Command, so that we continue to support the numbered Air Forces and the field units that are out there," said Col. Jim Dunn, ACC A/10 Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration director.
Additional summits will be held in November and December.
According to Col. Howard Shrum, AFGSC Det. 1 commander, "I think there are a lot of programs we can transfer over very easily into Global Strike Command. One of the niceties that we have here with Air Combat Command is that they've already been doing a lot of the work, so all we need to do is make sure we have a good transfer of all of that information into Global Strike Command and that we're ready, willing and able to take over."
AFGSC's Det. 1 staff is located at Langley to aid the transition.
One of the issues discussed at the summit was manning.
"Just like everywhere else in the Air Force, we are finding out that people are really our most critical resources," Colonel Dunn said.
In this instance, the issue is finding people who have the training, experience and background in the nuclear enterprise, he said.
"Making sure that we find the right people that we can move into the right jobs at Global Strike Command has probably been our biggest challenge and will continue to be our biggest challenge in the future.
"To some degree, we are trapped in a 'rob-Peter-to-pay-Paul' situation," Colonel Dunn said. "There is not an overwhelming number of people with nuclear experience within the Air Force at large."
He added that once the right person is found, getting him or her to Global Strike Command often will require a permanent change of station.
"There, we have a transition period where we lose somebody for 30-45 days as they take care of their family and their lives and make the move happen," Colonel Dunn said. "So we're working very, very hard to make those transitions move as smoothly as we possibly can, to meter them throughout the course of winter and next summer so we don't have a huge falloff in capacity here at Langley or a slow ramp-up at Global Strike Command."
Representatives from AFGSC and ACC echoed that the partnership between the commands will continue well after the responsibility transfer because both belong to the combat air forces and each command plays a key role in America's defense.
As KC-135Es retire, Air Force officials' focus shifts to KC-X
by Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol, Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNS) -- One of the last of the KC-135E Stratotankers to retire made its final flight Sept. 28 to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, and after more than 50 years of service, tail number 56-1503 will be relegated to a life as one of several planes used for aircraft maintenance training on the base.
This KC-135E was built in 1956 and was one of 161 KC-135Es that once were in the Air Force fleet. Today's Airmen keep the current Air Force fleet of 415 KC-135Rs flying until they will be replaced in the decades to come.
The KC-135E also brings to light the Air Force's need to get the new KC-X tankers, Air Mobility Command officials said.
On Sept. 24, just four days before the Sheppard AFB KC-135E was flown for the last time, Department of Defense officials announced a new KC-X tanker draft request for proposal has gone out. The plan calls for 179 aerial refueling tankers to replace the half-century old KC-135. The new KC-X will also augment the airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers and medical patients in a secondary role.
With the KC-X announcement, Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, the AMC commander, was glad to hear the news.
"This is a great day not only for Air Mobility Command, which operates our nation's fleet of aerial refueling aircraft, but also for our country as this is a capability we critically need," he said. "As a warfighter, I'm glad to see this day come."
As the KC-X process continues, officials said AMC's challenge will be to continue meeting a steep requirement of worldwide air refueling needs by the Air Force and its joint and coalition partners. That job falls to the aircrew, maintenance and other support personnel.
The KC-135 fleet currently maintains an 80 percent mission capable rate, officials from AMC's Logistics Directorate reported. For each hour of flight of a KC-135, it requires an average of seven to eight man-hours of maintenance. The KC-135E sent to Sheppard AFB to train maintenance Airmen helps in preparing new maintainers to meet this effort.
In the Air Force, every time a KC-135 mission is flown, it requires a crew chief and two assistants to inspect the plane for repairs. When something needs repaired, a specialist is called in. Currently, the top KC-135 systems incurring the most maintenance man-hours in the field are the fuel tank systems, auxiliary power units, flight controls and engine instruments.
Another item to consider is every year, approximately 72 KC-135s go through Air Force Materiel Command's depot maintenance with a number of age-related issues needing to be addressed. KC-135 systems and maintenance managers said this is causing the days in depot to grow. Planners also note that the older the KC-135s get, the more resources in time, manpower and money it will takes to fix them.
AMC projections show that in the next 15 to 30 years, there will be an anticipated increase in planned depot maintenance for KC-135s. This will include rewiring, reskinning, corrosion control and other structural maintenance as well as overhauling flight controls and upgrading aging analog systems in the aircraft. That extra maintenance could increase annual costs anywhere from $2 billion to $6 billion.
While some retired KC-135Es are set up for training at Sheppard AFB, others are set aside for parts at the "boneyard" at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.
"It (the aircraft) may be here for another 15 to 20 years as we harvest parts off it," said Col. Tom Schneider, the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group commander. "We are going to put this aircraft to good use. It will go into storage, which means it will be eligible for parts withdrawal to keep the rest of the fleet flying."
Officials are confident they can keep the worldwide air refueling mission going with the KC-135R and KC-10 Extender fleet. However, they also are fervently awaiting the new tanker.
The time is now to move on with this program, said General Lichte of the Air Force's No. 1 procurement priority. This is a critical commitment to recapitalize a key aircraft supporting the national military strategy.
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNS) -- One of the last of the KC-135E Stratotankers to retire made its final flight Sept. 28 to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, and after more than 50 years of service, tail number 56-1503 will be relegated to a life as one of several planes used for aircraft maintenance training on the base.
This KC-135E was built in 1956 and was one of 161 KC-135Es that once were in the Air Force fleet. Today's Airmen keep the current Air Force fleet of 415 KC-135Rs flying until they will be replaced in the decades to come.
The KC-135E also brings to light the Air Force's need to get the new KC-X tankers, Air Mobility Command officials said.
On Sept. 24, just four days before the Sheppard AFB KC-135E was flown for the last time, Department of Defense officials announced a new KC-X tanker draft request for proposal has gone out. The plan calls for 179 aerial refueling tankers to replace the half-century old KC-135. The new KC-X will also augment the airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers and medical patients in a secondary role.
With the KC-X announcement, Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, the AMC commander, was glad to hear the news.
"This is a great day not only for Air Mobility Command, which operates our nation's fleet of aerial refueling aircraft, but also for our country as this is a capability we critically need," he said. "As a warfighter, I'm glad to see this day come."
As the KC-X process continues, officials said AMC's challenge will be to continue meeting a steep requirement of worldwide air refueling needs by the Air Force and its joint and coalition partners. That job falls to the aircrew, maintenance and other support personnel.
The KC-135 fleet currently maintains an 80 percent mission capable rate, officials from AMC's Logistics Directorate reported. For each hour of flight of a KC-135, it requires an average of seven to eight man-hours of maintenance. The KC-135E sent to Sheppard AFB to train maintenance Airmen helps in preparing new maintainers to meet this effort.
In the Air Force, every time a KC-135 mission is flown, it requires a crew chief and two assistants to inspect the plane for repairs. When something needs repaired, a specialist is called in. Currently, the top KC-135 systems incurring the most maintenance man-hours in the field are the fuel tank systems, auxiliary power units, flight controls and engine instruments.
Another item to consider is every year, approximately 72 KC-135s go through Air Force Materiel Command's depot maintenance with a number of age-related issues needing to be addressed. KC-135 systems and maintenance managers said this is causing the days in depot to grow. Planners also note that the older the KC-135s get, the more resources in time, manpower and money it will takes to fix them.
AMC projections show that in the next 15 to 30 years, there will be an anticipated increase in planned depot maintenance for KC-135s. This will include rewiring, reskinning, corrosion control and other structural maintenance as well as overhauling flight controls and upgrading aging analog systems in the aircraft. That extra maintenance could increase annual costs anywhere from $2 billion to $6 billion.
While some retired KC-135Es are set up for training at Sheppard AFB, others are set aside for parts at the "boneyard" at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.
"It (the aircraft) may be here for another 15 to 20 years as we harvest parts off it," said Col. Tom Schneider, the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group commander. "We are going to put this aircraft to good use. It will go into storage, which means it will be eligible for parts withdrawal to keep the rest of the fleet flying."
Officials are confident they can keep the worldwide air refueling mission going with the KC-135R and KC-10 Extender fleet. However, they also are fervently awaiting the new tanker.
The time is now to move on with this program, said General Lichte of the Air Force's No. 1 procurement priority. This is a critical commitment to recapitalize a key aircraft supporting the national military strategy.
Air Show at MCAS Miramar Awes the Community
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Thomas E. Coffman,
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar opened its gates to the community to celebrate "A Salute to Teamwork," air show Oct. 2-4.
All branches of the United States military participated in what has become not just an air show, but a joint forces community outreach.
Navy divers stationed at Naval Station San Diego were a big splash with the kids. Throwing Nerf footballs, commemorative coins and splashing water were all part of their display. The biggest spectacle was when the kids could write notes on the glass with grease pencils to the divers, who would respond back under water in the same manner.
"It's hard writing backwards while chatting with the divers," said Nicole Potvin of Redondo, Calif. "But it's the best part of the air show."
Based in Fort Bragg, N.C., The Golden Knights invite all branches of the U.S. military to try out for the Golden Knights. Once accepted, they are crossed over to the Army.
"It's my first year on the team, and it is an honor to represent all the soldiers of the U.S. Army on our 50th anniversary," said Sgt. Rachel Medley of Eureka California. "We have Marines and Air Force members that have crossed over specifically to serve with the Golden Knights. One of the requirements before trying out is having logged over 150 free fall jumps."
Another display in full force was the Virtual Army Experience. Requiring four semi trailers and a large staff to run, it was comparable with any popular theme park.
"The experience was developed so the public could see firsthand with a high degree of realistic representation what life in a combat zone is like," said Sgt. Michael Morphis currently attached to San Diego Recruiting Company. One element of the tour included the unseen element, the hidden sniper.
With just three days left on tour in Iraq, Morphis recalls waking up on the way to an Army hospital in Germany. Morphis was awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in action.
The Virtual Army Experience concluded with a slide presentation of real life heroes and the Silver Stars and Purple Hearts they proudly earned in defense of their country. The participants realized that the people giving the tour they just experienced were these great heroes.
The most anticipated part of the air show was the performance of a team that has been performing for crowds all over the world since 1946. Home-based at
Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., and flying the F/A-18 Hornet, the Blue Angels consist of U.S. Navy and Marine Aviators, accompanied by the all-Marine Corps crew of the C-130T Hercules, known as Fat Albert. The team performed various displays of close formation aerial acrobatics and high speed head to head maneuvers. Fat Albert performed one aspect of its display for the last time, its jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) capability by lighting up the night sky with blazing rockets boosting the aircraft at a 45 degree angle on takeoff.
Hundreds of thousands of spectators gazed skyward as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army parachute team Golden Knights and the Canadian Snow Birds, and highlighted the aerial displays.
Marine Corps Air Station is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and over 10,000 Marines and Sailors on constant rotation in support of combat operations all over the world.
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar opened its gates to the community to celebrate "A Salute to Teamwork," air show Oct. 2-4.
All branches of the United States military participated in what has become not just an air show, but a joint forces community outreach.
Navy divers stationed at Naval Station San Diego were a big splash with the kids. Throwing Nerf footballs, commemorative coins and splashing water were all part of their display. The biggest spectacle was when the kids could write notes on the glass with grease pencils to the divers, who would respond back under water in the same manner.
"It's hard writing backwards while chatting with the divers," said Nicole Potvin of Redondo, Calif. "But it's the best part of the air show."
Based in Fort Bragg, N.C., The Golden Knights invite all branches of the U.S. military to try out for the Golden Knights. Once accepted, they are crossed over to the Army.
"It's my first year on the team, and it is an honor to represent all the soldiers of the U.S. Army on our 50th anniversary," said Sgt. Rachel Medley of Eureka California. "We have Marines and Air Force members that have crossed over specifically to serve with the Golden Knights. One of the requirements before trying out is having logged over 150 free fall jumps."
Another display in full force was the Virtual Army Experience. Requiring four semi trailers and a large staff to run, it was comparable with any popular theme park.
"The experience was developed so the public could see firsthand with a high degree of realistic representation what life in a combat zone is like," said Sgt. Michael Morphis currently attached to San Diego Recruiting Company. One element of the tour included the unseen element, the hidden sniper.
With just three days left on tour in Iraq, Morphis recalls waking up on the way to an Army hospital in Germany. Morphis was awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in action.
The Virtual Army Experience concluded with a slide presentation of real life heroes and the Silver Stars and Purple Hearts they proudly earned in defense of their country. The participants realized that the people giving the tour they just experienced were these great heroes.
The most anticipated part of the air show was the performance of a team that has been performing for crowds all over the world since 1946. Home-based at
Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., and flying the F/A-18 Hornet, the Blue Angels consist of U.S. Navy and Marine Aviators, accompanied by the all-Marine Corps crew of the C-130T Hercules, known as Fat Albert. The team performed various displays of close formation aerial acrobatics and high speed head to head maneuvers. Fat Albert performed one aspect of its display for the last time, its jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) capability by lighting up the night sky with blazing rockets boosting the aircraft at a 45 degree angle on takeoff.
Hundreds of thousands of spectators gazed skyward as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army parachute team Golden Knights and the Canadian Snow Birds, and highlighted the aerial displays.
Marine Corps Air Station is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and over 10,000 Marines and Sailors on constant rotation in support of combat operations all over the world.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Cocoa Beach 2009 Airshow Report
An anonymous source passes along the following report for the 2009 Cocoa Beach Florida airshow. Thanks to this member of the MMP team for sharing this information.
118.9000 FAA Space Coast Regional Tower (SABER, VIPER recovery)
122.4750 USAF Heritage flight air-air (SABER-VIPER)
123.1500 Airshow Discrete (also possible PA feed)
123.4750 USA Golden Knights air-ground
124.5750 USAF Air Boss / Patrick Tower
128.5500 NASA Tower (C-17A HIRE 81 recovery)
132.6500 FAA Orlando Approach
157.1000 Marine Channel 22A 920th RQW Demo KING or JOLLY with GONDOLA CHARLIE
251.9000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY-KING air-air
255.5000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY
384.5500 USAF VIPER Demo
118.9000 FAA Space Coast Regional Tower (SABER, VIPER recovery)
122.4750 USAF Heritage flight air-air (SABER-VIPER)
123.1500 Airshow Discrete (also possible PA feed)
123.4750 USA Golden Knights air-ground
124.5750 USAF Air Boss / Patrick Tower
128.5500 NASA Tower (C-17A HIRE 81 recovery)
132.6500 FAA Orlando Approach
157.1000 Marine Channel 22A 920th RQW Demo KING or JOLLY with GONDOLA CHARLIE
251.9000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY-KING air-air
255.5000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY
384.5500 USAF VIPER Demo
USS Nashville (LPD 13) is decommissioned.
It is a sad day. The USS Nashville LPD-13 has been decommissioned. For more
click here for an USN video report.
click here for an USN video report.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Heavy Israeli Air Force Traffic Monitored
Michael in Paris on the UDXF group is reporting this morning heavy traffic from Israeli Air Force units on 8847.o kHz. Traffic ran for over one hour and consisted of numerous callsigns with encrypted ? messages.
USS Cole Prepares for Joint Warrior
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker, Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs
ABOARD USS COLE , At Sea (NNS) -- The crew aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) is conducting around-the-clock training to prepare for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009, which will qualify the ship for their next deployment.
Joint Warrior is a U.K.-led multiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployments.
The exercise, which is scheduled from Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet's three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fleet operations to achieve mission, providing ready maritime forces for global assignment, and teaming with allies and partners in execution of the maritime strategy.
Cole has been training since May, initially learning NATO policies and building charts, templates, and overlays for navigation, air space and operation areas. The entire crew is pulling together to ensure the ship is ready to react to whatever scenarios they will encounter during the exercise.
"Right now we are training to become a cohesive team," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Harrold Tejeda, from the Dominican Republic.
"The training we are doing now and the exercise we are preparing for will help us with our upcoming deployment," said Cole's Assistant Operations Officer Chief Warrant Officer Bryan Begley. "We are training on how to react to small attack vessels, conduct boarding operations, defend merchant shipping traffic, and maintain control of the air space in the maritime environment during our real-life operations."
Joint Warrior also allows crew members to earn qualifications before deployment.
"During this exercise there will be a lot of activities going on in such a short amount of time," said Tejeda. "It's a great way for the crew to observe and be involved with these real-life situations."
Tejeda said the junior enlisted crew members are very willing to learn and look forward to taking advantage of all the operations the exercise has to offer.
Destroyer Squadron 24 Commodore Capt. John Kersh addressed the crew to thank them for the effort they have shown in preparation for the exercise.
"You continue to do well as we conduct our trans-Atlantic crossing. The ship has done so well and you have worked so well as a team."
ABOARD USS COLE , At Sea (NNS) -- The crew aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) is conducting around-the-clock training to prepare for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009, which will qualify the ship for their next deployment.
Joint Warrior is a U.K.-led multiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployments.
The exercise, which is scheduled from Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet's three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fleet operations to achieve mission, providing ready maritime forces for global assignment, and teaming with allies and partners in execution of the maritime strategy.
Cole has been training since May, initially learning NATO policies and building charts, templates, and overlays for navigation, air space and operation areas. The entire crew is pulling together to ensure the ship is ready to react to whatever scenarios they will encounter during the exercise.
"Right now we are training to become a cohesive team," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Harrold Tejeda, from the Dominican Republic.
"The training we are doing now and the exercise we are preparing for will help us with our upcoming deployment," said Cole's Assistant Operations Officer Chief Warrant Officer Bryan Begley. "We are training on how to react to small attack vessels, conduct boarding operations, defend merchant shipping traffic, and maintain control of the air space in the maritime environment during our real-life operations."
Joint Warrior also allows crew members to earn qualifications before deployment.
"During this exercise there will be a lot of activities going on in such a short amount of time," said Tejeda. "It's a great way for the crew to observe and be involved with these real-life situations."
Tejeda said the junior enlisted crew members are very willing to learn and look forward to taking advantage of all the operations the exercise has to offer.
Destroyer Squadron 24 Commodore Capt. John Kersh addressed the crew to thank them for the effort they have shown in preparation for the exercise.
"You continue to do well as we conduct our trans-Atlantic crossing. The ship has done so well and you have worked so well as a team."
Saturday, October 03, 2009
104th FW to Standup for Alert Duty
Ken on the Milcom newsgroup reported the following today:
"According to the 104th Fighter Wing's monthly publication Airscoop (October 2009), the unit will stand up an alert force by February 15, 2010 to support Operation Noble Eagle and Homeland Defense.
Prior issues of the Airscoop can be found at the unit's website: http://www.104fw.ang.af.mil/
"According to the 104th Fighter Wing's monthly publication Airscoop (October 2009), the unit will stand up an alert force by February 15, 2010 to support Operation Noble Eagle and Homeland Defense.
Prior issues of the Airscoop can be found at the unit's website: http://www.104fw.ang.af.mil/
USS Williams Gets Underway for 5th Fleet
The guided-missisle destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) prepares to go underway after a routine port visit to Crete. James E. Williams is homeported in Norfolk and has been on a scheduled six-month deployment since April, operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley/Released)
Navy Establishes Carrier Strike Group 1
An F/A-18E Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 prepares to land on USS Carl Vinson's (CVN 70) flight deck during routine flight operations. Carl Vinson is underway conducting flight deck certification after the completion of its scheduled refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. The RCOH was an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year life cycle. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Rowe/Released)SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy formally established Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 in San Diego October 1, 2009. The flagship for CSG 1 will be the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), currently homeported in Newport News, Va. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1, USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) will round out the strike group.
Commanded by Rear Adm. Ted "Twig" Branch, CSG 1 will be a San Diego-based operational command and will report to Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet.
"We are excited by the opportunity to establish this new command and bring the power of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group online in support of our nation's defense," said Branch. "I'm also very happy to bring this capability, along with the men and women who make it possible, to the great city of San Diego."
Carrier Strike Group 1's first mission is expected to be a transit around South America in the spring of 2010 as Vinson relocates to its new homeport of San Diego.
In support of the nation's maritime strategy, CSG-1 will help promote regional partnerships, deter crisis, project power, promote maritime security, and provide humanitarian assistance or disaster relief within the U.S. Pacific Fleet's 100 million square-mile area of operations.
The Navy took redelivery of Vinson July 11, 2009, following the successful completion of the ship's midlife refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH).
USS Carl Vinson is the third Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to complete RCOH at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News and is undergoing a four-month post-refueling shipyard maintenance period to prepare for its transit to San Diego.
64th Air Refueling Squadron Activated at Pease Air National Guard Base
157th Air Refueling Wing -- An Activation and Assumption of Command Ceremony took place at Pease Air National Guard Base Oct. 2. This ceremony officially recognized the 64th Air Refueling Squadron and its new commander, Lt. Col. Christopher Leist.
This is a "very momentous day for the Air National Guard and the Air Force," said 157th Air Refueling Wing Commander Col. Richard Martell.
The 64th ARS is a part of the 22nd Operations Group of McConnell Air Force Base but is operationally assigned to the 157th Air Refueling Wing. The partnership was formed as part of the Active Associate concept where Active Duty Airmen are assigned to an Air National Guard unit and work hand-in-hand with Guardsmen.
"This ceremony is unique because we not only activate a new flying squadron but we also assign a new commander," said Col. Steven Greco, Director of Operations and emcee for the ceremony.
"This is a day to celebrate the beginnings of a new way to capitalize on America and New Hampshire's investment in both the Active Duty Air Force and the Air National Guard," said Leist. "The next greatest generation is standing before you in formation today."
Col. Billy Langford, 22d Operations Group Commander, said this association will bring together the proud tradition of three renowned units "and set the course for a hugely successful partnership for years to come."
After the activation order was read, the 64th ARS guidon was unfurled and raised. Langford passed the guidon to Leist as a symbol of Leist's assumption of command of the 64th ARS. And with the words, "I assume command," Leist officially assumed authority and responsibility of command of the 64th ARS. Leist was presented with the United States Air Force Commander's Badge and also received his first salute from the 64th ARS.
"When the call came to nominate a squadron commander for the 64th, for me there was no deliberation necessary," said Langford. "I knew I had the perfect fit in Lt. Col. Leist."
This is a "very momentous day for the Air National Guard and the Air Force," said 157th Air Refueling Wing Commander Col. Richard Martell.
The 64th ARS is a part of the 22nd Operations Group of McConnell Air Force Base but is operationally assigned to the 157th Air Refueling Wing. The partnership was formed as part of the Active Associate concept where Active Duty Airmen are assigned to an Air National Guard unit and work hand-in-hand with Guardsmen.
"This ceremony is unique because we not only activate a new flying squadron but we also assign a new commander," said Col. Steven Greco, Director of Operations and emcee for the ceremony.
"This is a day to celebrate the beginnings of a new way to capitalize on America and New Hampshire's investment in both the Active Duty Air Force and the Air National Guard," said Leist. "The next greatest generation is standing before you in formation today."
Col. Billy Langford, 22d Operations Group Commander, said this association will bring together the proud tradition of three renowned units "and set the course for a hugely successful partnership for years to come."
After the activation order was read, the 64th ARS guidon was unfurled and raised. Langford passed the guidon to Leist as a symbol of Leist's assumption of command of the 64th ARS. And with the words, "I assume command," Leist officially assumed authority and responsibility of command of the 64th ARS. Leist was presented with the United States Air Force Commander's Badge and also received his first salute from the 64th ARS.
"When the call came to nominate a squadron commander for the 64th, for me there was no deliberation necessary," said Langford. "I knew I had the perfect fit in Lt. Col. Leist."
Friday, October 02, 2009
Navy Conducting Amphib Ops on the Pacific Ocean
Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) tend to a Marine Corps CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter during flight operations. Nearby, the amphibious transport dock USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) is conducting landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Geronimo Aquino)
USS McClusky Deploys in Support of Counter Illicit-trafficking
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate, USS McClusky (FFG 41) will depart San Diego for an independent deployment to the 4th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) in the Eastern Pacific Ocean Oct. 5.
McClusky will deploy in support of counter illicit-trafficking (CIT) efforts. A crew of about 30 officers and 210 enlisted Sailors will conduct integrated operations with Joint Interagency Task Force South, based in Key West, Fla., and Coast Guard District 11, based in Alameda, Calif.
Commanded by Cmdr. Mark A. Lakamp, McClusky will deploy with HSL 45 Detachment 3, who will provide aerial support with a SH-60B helicopter and a Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment who will conduct boardings and law enforcement operations.
"Our crew is well trained and ready to take on the CIT mission as well as support the 4th Fleet commander's theater security cooperation (TSC) strategy," said Lakamp.
McClusky is credited with more than 20 drug seizures since it began deployments to the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean in 2000. On its most recent surge deployment in the summer of 2008, McClusky disrupted more than eight tons of cocaine bound for the United States.
USS McClusky falls under the command of Destroyer Squadron 1 (DESRON1) led by Capt. Eric C. Young and is one of six Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigates in DESRON 1. McClusky will relieve two DESRON 1 ships, the USS Gary (FFG 51) and USS Jarrett (FFG 33). Gary and the Jarrett are currently underway supporting CIT efforts in the 4th Fleet AOR.
McClusky 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.
Fourth Fleet Achieves Pre-Accreditation During PANAMAX 09
A multi-national naval force, including the San Antonio class-amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), USS Doyle (FFG 39), USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913), the Colombian navy frigate ARC Independiente, the Dutch navy auxiliary ship HMNLS Amsterdam, and the Uruguayan navy frigate General Artigas, underway in formation as part of Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX 2009. FA PANAMAX is an annual multi-national training exercise tailored to the defense of the Panama Canal. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gary B. Granger Jr./Released) By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Holly Boynton, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet Public Affairs
MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- U.S. 4th Fleet achieved a major milestone during PANAMAX 09 Sept. 11-22 upon receiving their Maritime Operations Center (MOC) pre-accreditation at the end of the exercise.
During the annual PANAMAX exercise, U.S. 4th Fleet used its role as Coalition Forces Maritime Component Commander (CFMCC) to test their MOC procedures, bringing them to an equal playing field with other MOCs in the Navy.
MOCs are an operational construct designed to provide fleets with the flexibility and control needed to execute missions at the operational level of war, from personnel, to intelligence, to logistics and communication.
During several exercise scenarios, including riverine operations, use of Unmanned Aerial Systems, and a hijacking/piracy event, during PANAMAX 09, 4th Fleet put their MOC to the test. A team of observers from U.S. Fleet Forces Command and the Naval War College followed the staff's activities during the exercise, viewing the various departments' roles in working groups, cells, and boards, and during battle rhythm briefings. Fourth Fleet was able to test interoperability, integrating many foreign military partner nation representatives, as well as U.S. Army, Air Force and Marine Corps servicemembers and a strong reserve augmentation.
Rear Adm. David Anderson, Vice Commander U.S. Fleet Forces, commended Rear Adm. Victor Guillory, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet on his staff's performance during the exercise and pre-accredited 4th Fleet's MOC.
"It was apparent you took (pre-accreditation) very seriously and seeing how the staff cooperated, it was obviously a priority to you and your team," said Anderson.
The ability to work effectively within the joint environment is a necessity within the fleet today. The MOC construct enables increased maritime capabilities in the joint arena.
"Moving our MOC to the next level continues to be my top priority," said Guillory. "I want to mature 4th fleet staff activities, behavior, and products. For other MOCs and higher headquarters, we are ready for additional responsibilities that come with being a numbered fleet staff."
Fourth Fleet is the numbered fleet assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO), exercising operational control of assigned forces. Fourth Fleet conducts the full spectrum of maritime security operations (MSO) in support of U.S. objectives and security cooperation activities that promote coalition building and deter aggression.
As the Navy component command of U.S. Southern Command, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.
A multi-national naval force, including the San Antonio class-amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), USS Doyle (FFG 39), USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913), the Colombian navy frigate ARC Independiente, the Dutch navy auxiliary ship HMNLS Amsterdam, and the Uruguayan navy frigate General Artigas, underway in formation as part of Fuerzas Aliadas PANAMAX 2009. FA PANAMAX is an annual multi-national training exercise tailored to the defense of the Panama Canal. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gary B. Granger Jr./Released)
New post-Soviet force begins military exercises
By PETER LEONARD, Associated Press Writer
Associated Press article vai BreitBart
ALMATY, Kazakhstan (AP) - Thousands of troops from Russia and four other ex-Soviet nations began military exercises in southern Kazakhstan on Friday, the first of its kind for the newly formed NATO-style rapid-reaction force.
More than 7,000 troops gathered at the Matybulak training grounds for the maneuvers, which are expected to last two weeks, the Kazakh Defense Ministry said in a statement on its Web site.
You can read the full story at
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D9B2UBOG0&show_article=1
Associated Press article vai BreitBart
ALMATY, Kazakhstan (AP) - Thousands of troops from Russia and four other ex-Soviet nations began military exercises in southern Kazakhstan on Friday, the first of its kind for the newly formed NATO-style rapid-reaction force.
More than 7,000 troops gathered at the Matybulak training grounds for the maneuvers, which are expected to last two weeks, the Kazakh Defense Ministry said in a statement on its Web site.
You can read the full story at
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D9B2UBOG0&show_article=1
Milcom Blog Logs - September 2009 - Mid Atlantic
Ron, a member of the MMP team, passed along the following frequencies monitored in September from his Mid Atlantic monitoring post. Thanks Ron for sharing your frequency list with my readers.
AAF Army Air Field
AFB Air Force Base
ArNG Army National Guard
ARTCC Air Route Traffic Control Center
RCAG Remote Communications Air/Ground
--118.125 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--118.400 Andrews AFB Tower
--118.950 Potomac TRACON
--119.300 Potomac TRACON
--119.850 Potomac TRACON
--120.050 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--121.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--121.300 Martin State Airport Tower
--121.500 VHF guard
--123.175 Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.225 Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.400 FAA Operations Reagan National & Atlantic City International Airport-also alternate freq for Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.700 NAS Patuxent River tower
--125.900 Dover AFB Arrival
--126.150 Phillips AAF Aberdeen MD
--126.200 Weide AAF Aberdeen MD
--126.300 Davison AAF Tower
--126.350 Dover AFB Tower
--126.550 Potomac TRACON
--127.950 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--132.425 Dover AFB Approach/Departure
--133.900 Washington ARTCC Calvert
--134.100 Dover AFB and McGuire Command Post
--134.350 Washington Helo Control (DCA)
--135.025 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--138.000 134FS VT ANG F-16 Air-Air (AM mode)
--138.200 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG (AM mode)
--138.425 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG (AM mode)
--139.000 Martin State Airport 104FS MD ANG A-A (AM mode)
--139.150 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--139.300 Andrews AFB Pilot to Dispatcher (AM mode)
--139.400 Davidson AAF Operations (AM mode)
--139.700 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector Huntress (AM mode)
--139.900 121st FS DC ANG ADW Ops
--141.550 Andrews AFB Griffin Command Post (AM mode)
--143.150 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--143.600 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--227.125 Washington ARTCC Hagerstown RCAG
--228.450 LFI A-A
--228.450 Langley AFB 1FW Air-Air
--228.900 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector Huntress & Guard Dog CAP secondary
--229.400 Weide AAF Ops (Maryland Army National Guard)
--229.600 Phillips AAF Ops (Maryland Army National Guard)
--233.550 Willow Grove NAS/JRB Pennsylvania ANG Air-Air
--236.825 Washington ARTCC Snow Hill RCAG
--237.200 Bollen Range, Ft Indiantown GAP PA
--238.100 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--238.900 Aerial Refueling Anchor AR-636 primary
--239.050 New York ARTCC Joliet RCAG Lancaster sector
--239.800 McGuire AFB/Langley AFB Metro
--243.000 UHF guard
--249.800 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--250.300 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--250.700 NAS Patuxent River VX-23 Operations
--254.200 GK discrete.
--254.300 Washington ARTCC Ship Bottom RCAG Coyle sector
--255.000 Giantkiller W107
--255.400 Leesburg Radio
--256.500 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--257.700 Washington ARTCC Whaleyville RCAG Salisbury sector
--257.875 Dover AFB Approach/Departure
--260.900 NORAD Guard Dog CAP
--261.000 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG Devil Operations
--262.025 Langley AFB Air-Air
--264.150 NAS Patuxent River NTPS Operations
--266.500 Aerial Refueling Anchor AR 777 primary
--268.800 NAS Chambers VA Operations
--270.275 Potomac TRACON
--270.800 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--273.525 Harrisburg approach/departure
--273.950 MCB/MCAF Quantico HMX-1 discrete
--276.675 LFI A-A
--279.575 Potomac TRACON fly by controller
--281.400 Washington ARTCC Patuxent River RCAG Calvert sector
--281.450 Washington ARTCC Atlantic City RCAG (changed from Sea Isle)
--281.525 Harrisburg Approach/Departure
--281.800 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--282.200 Washington ARTCC Bucks Elbow RCAG Casanova sector (now on 282.250-LVH)
--285.400 Washington ARTCC Sea Isle RCAG Casino sector
--290.425 Washington ARTCC Green Bay RCAG Franklin sector
--292.200 Andrews AFB 89AW/1HS Air-Air
--292.300 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386 common
--297.200 Martin State Airport Tower
--306.200 New York ARTCC Philipsburg RCAG
--310.550 NAS Patuxent River Echo Control
--311.000 Lighthouse Control- CP Seymour-Johnson AFB NC
--312.300 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386 common (LFI 36 prime)
--314.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--317.425 Potomac Tracon Departure
--320.450 Echo Control NAS Patuxent River MD
--322.400 ZNY Middletown RGAG
--322.550 Washington ARTCC Linden RCAG Linden sector
--327.000 Washington ARTCC Falls Church RCAG Brooke sector
--327.225 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W-107 discrete
--328.400 Andrews AFB VR-53 Operations
--335.500 Potomac TRACON
--335.600 New York ARTCC Modena RCAG
--341.750 AR 20 primary
--342.000 Dover AFB Metro
--347.200 Martin State Airport MD ANG Raven Ops
--348.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--348.725 Potomac TRACON
--349.000 Andrews AFB Tower
--349.400 Dover AFB Command Post
--349.500 NAS Chambers VA CP
--350.250 Washington ARTCC Guard Dog CAP
--351.200 Andrews AFB 459ARW/756ARS Command Post "Liberator"
--351.900 Washington ARTCC Green Bay RCAG Gordonsville sector
--354.150 Washington ARTCC Smyrna RCAG Kenton sector
--354.800 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--355.300 MCAF Quantico Base Ops
--355.800 Bay Watch NAS Patuxent River MD
--357.100 Langley AFB 1FW/71FS Operations
--360.150 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector (DC NORAD Guard Dog CAP) Langley AFB A-A
--360.700 Washington ARTCC Baltimore RCAG Swann sector
--360.850 Washington ARTCC Falls Church RCAG Irons sector
--363.000 Washington ARTCC Millville RCAG Woodstowne sector
--365.700 NAS Patuxent River test discrete
--372.200 Andrews AFB Dispatch
--375.700 Coronet 31 C2
--376.200 Langley Dispatch.
--378.100 Andrews AFB Griffin Command Post
--384.100 Martin State Airport 135th Command Post Crab Ops
--389.100 GK discrete
--395.100 Harrisburg International Airport 193rd SOG PA ANG Baton Ops
AAF Army Air Field
AFB Air Force Base
ArNG Army National Guard
ARTCC Air Route Traffic Control Center
RCAG Remote Communications Air/Ground
--118.125 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--118.400 Andrews AFB Tower
--118.950 Potomac TRACON
--119.300 Potomac TRACON
--119.850 Potomac TRACON
--120.050 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--121.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--121.300 Martin State Airport Tower
--121.500 VHF guard
--123.175 Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.225 Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.400 FAA Operations Reagan National & Atlantic City International Airport-also alternate freq for Northrop-Grumman Test Facility, Baltimore
--123.700 NAS Patuxent River tower
--125.900 Dover AFB Arrival
--126.150 Phillips AAF Aberdeen MD
--126.200 Weide AAF Aberdeen MD
--126.300 Davison AAF Tower
--126.350 Dover AFB Tower
--126.550 Potomac TRACON
--127.950 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--132.425 Dover AFB Approach/Departure
--133.900 Washington ARTCC Calvert
--134.100 Dover AFB and McGuire Command Post
--134.350 Washington Helo Control (DCA)
--135.025 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--138.000 134FS VT ANG F-16 Air-Air (AM mode)
--138.200 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG (AM mode)
--138.425 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG (AM mode)
--139.000 Martin State Airport 104FS MD ANG A-A (AM mode)
--139.150 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--139.300 Andrews AFB Pilot to Dispatcher (AM mode)
--139.400 Davidson AAF Operations (AM mode)
--139.700 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector Huntress (AM mode)
--139.900 121st FS DC ANG ADW Ops
--141.550 Andrews AFB Griffin Command Post (AM mode)
--143.150 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--143.600 Andrews AFB 121FS DC ANG (AM mode)
--227.125 Washington ARTCC Hagerstown RCAG
--228.450 LFI A-A
--228.450 Langley AFB 1FW Air-Air
--228.900 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector Huntress & Guard Dog CAP secondary
--229.400 Weide AAF Ops (Maryland Army National Guard)
--229.600 Phillips AAF Ops (Maryland Army National Guard)
--233.550 Willow Grove NAS/JRB Pennsylvania ANG Air-Air
--236.825 Washington ARTCC Snow Hill RCAG
--237.200 Bollen Range, Ft Indiantown GAP PA
--238.100 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--238.900 Aerial Refueling Anchor AR-636 primary
--239.050 New York ARTCC Joliet RCAG Lancaster sector
--239.800 McGuire AFB/Langley AFB Metro
--243.000 UHF guard
--249.800 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386
--250.300 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--250.700 NAS Patuxent River VX-23 Operations
--254.200 GK discrete.
--254.300 Washington ARTCC Ship Bottom RCAG Coyle sector
--255.000 Giantkiller W107
--255.400 Leesburg Radio
--256.500 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--257.700 Washington ARTCC Whaleyville RCAG Salisbury sector
--257.875 Dover AFB Approach/Departure
--260.900 NORAD Guard Dog CAP
--261.000 Atlantic City International Airport 119FS NJ ANG Devil Operations
--262.025 Langley AFB Air-Air
--264.150 NAS Patuxent River NTPS Operations
--266.500 Aerial Refueling Anchor AR 777 primary
--268.800 NAS Chambers VA Operations
--270.275 Potomac TRACON
--270.800 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--273.525 Harrisburg approach/departure
--273.950 MCB/MCAF Quantico HMX-1 discrete
--276.675 LFI A-A
--279.575 Potomac TRACON fly by controller
--281.400 Washington ARTCC Patuxent River RCAG Calvert sector
--281.450 Washington ARTCC Atlantic City RCAG (changed from Sea Isle)
--281.525 Harrisburg Approach/Departure
--281.800 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--282.200 Washington ARTCC Bucks Elbow RCAG Casanova sector (now on 282.250-LVH)
--285.400 Washington ARTCC Sea Isle RCAG Casino sector
--290.425 Washington ARTCC Green Bay RCAG Franklin sector
--292.200 Andrews AFB 89AW/1HS Air-Air
--292.300 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386 common
--297.200 Martin State Airport Tower
--306.200 New York ARTCC Philipsburg RCAG
--310.550 NAS Patuxent River Echo Control
--311.000 Lighthouse Control- CP Seymour-Johnson AFB NC
--312.300 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W386 common (LFI 36 prime)
--314.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--317.425 Potomac Tracon Departure
--320.450 Echo Control NAS Patuxent River MD
--322.400 ZNY Middletown RGAG
--322.550 Washington ARTCC Linden RCAG Linden sector
--327.000 Washington ARTCC Falls Church RCAG Brooke sector
--327.225 FACSFAC, Virginia Capes "Giant Killer" W-107 discrete
--328.400 Andrews AFB VR-53 Operations
--335.500 Potomac TRACON
--335.600 New York ARTCC Modena RCAG
--341.750 AR 20 primary
--342.000 Dover AFB Metro
--347.200 Martin State Airport MD ANG Raven Ops
--348.000 NAS Patuxent River Approach/Departure
--348.725 Potomac TRACON
--349.000 Andrews AFB Tower
--349.400 Dover AFB Command Post
--349.500 NAS Chambers VA CP
--350.250 Washington ARTCC Guard Dog CAP
--351.200 Andrews AFB 459ARW/756ARS Command Post "Liberator"
--351.900 Washington ARTCC Green Bay RCAG Gordonsville sector
--354.150 Washington ARTCC Smyrna RCAG Kenton sector
--354.800 NAS Patuxent River Area Advisory Control Bay Watch
--355.300 MCAF Quantico Base Ops
--355.800 Bay Watch NAS Patuxent River MD
--357.100 Langley AFB 1FW/71FS Operations
--360.150 NORAD Eastern Air Defense Sector (DC NORAD Guard Dog CAP) Langley AFB A-A
--360.700 Washington ARTCC Baltimore RCAG Swann sector
--360.850 Washington ARTCC Falls Church RCAG Irons sector
--363.000 Washington ARTCC Millville RCAG Woodstowne sector
--365.700 NAS Patuxent River test discrete
--372.200 Andrews AFB Dispatch
--375.700 Coronet 31 C2
--376.200 Langley Dispatch.
--378.100 Andrews AFB Griffin Command Post
--384.100 Martin State Airport 135th Command Post Crab Ops
--389.100 GK discrete
--395.100 Harrisburg International Airport 193rd SOG PA ANG Baton Ops
It's official: 33rd Fighter Wing is the F-35 training unit
And here is a story from the NewsHerald.com website in Panama City:
EGLIN AFB — The 33rd officially shed its “fighter” wing status Thursday morning as it transitioned to the first F-35 training unit. The former operational F-15 Air Combat Command unit is now a training unit under the Air Education and Training Command’s 19th Air Force.
The wing will continue the legacy of the 33rd, maintaining the “fighter wing” moniker and the “Nomad” name.
Get the rest of the copyrighted story online at
http://www.newsherald.com/news/photo-77962-fighter-33rd.html
EGLIN AFB — The 33rd officially shed its “fighter” wing status Thursday morning as it transitioned to the first F-35 training unit. The former operational F-15 Air Combat Command unit is now a training unit under the Air Education and Training Command’s 19th Air Force.
The wing will continue the legacy of the 33rd, maintaining the “fighter wing” moniker and the “Nomad” name.
Get the rest of the copyrighted story online at
http://www.newsherald.com/news/photo-77962-fighter-33rd.html
Milcom Blog Logs - September 2009 - Central Florida
Jack, a member of the MMP team, has passed along his Milcom blog log freqs monitored during the month of July from his central Florida location. Thanks Jack.
"Thing's were wild during the month of September. We had an ATLANTIC STRIKE exercise at Avon Park Range and a JTFEX exercise at Pinecastle Range. These are the call sign's monitored by myself and other monitor's. Big thank you to the monitor's to my South! The following call sign's were used during these exercise's."
WARHAWK(ASOC??)
RAVEN A-10C 77FS
THUNDER B--1B 34BS
GAMBLER F-16CM 77FS
RAID KC-135 319ARW
CHILL B-52H 5BW
AVENGER B-52H 2BW?
POKER F-16CM 77FS
TURBO KC-135 22ARW
DEFIANT F-16CM 77FS
JTAC'S
ADVANCE SANDHOG BRUTAL HORSEMEN BLACKJACK DESTORYER HARDLUCK SLAYER BLACKFOOT GHOST
COWBOY SMASHER LIGHTING GRIFFIN
JTFEX
DART (PHOENIX AIR GROUP) COUGAR ?? SENTRY-51 ZAPPER EA-6B VAQ-130 CHECK
RAGIN VICIOUS GYPSY HUSKY
Frequency's monitored:
138.1500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
139.0000 A/G/A UNKNOWN USER
139.2500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
139.2750 USED BEFORE BY MOODY A-10'S
139.6000 A/G/A UNKNOWN USER
140.3750 77FS INTERFLIGHT
140.7000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTIONS
141.3000 NASA VARIETY NET
141.8250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
143.7000 USED BEFORE BY MOODY A-10'S
150.3000 USCG??
225.1500 J-STARS
225.1750 B-1B THUNDER***
225.3250 77FS
225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE
225.6750 VMFA-115 MCAS BEAUFORT SC
225.8750 AWACS
226.4250 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
227.1000 JTFEX??
228.4000 R-3007 TOWNSEND RANGE GA
228.5750 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
229.1750 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
229.3500 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
230.1500 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
230.2250 JTFEX??
231.6000 JTFEX??
233.2000 ARMY
233.3750 JTFEX??
233.7500 J-STARS
234.2250 JTFEX??
234.8000 159FS/125FW
234.9500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.0500 USAF UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.1500 USAF UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
235.8500 DART MARITIME CONTROL**
236.0750 GRAND BAY RANGE MOODY AFB GA
237.0250 TYNDALL AFB UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
237.2000 ARMY
237.7000 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
238.3500 JTAC AVON PARK RANGE "RED-3"
238.8000 AF OPS NAS KET WEST
239.0000 ORLANDO EXEC TOWER
239.2500 FAA
239.3000 JTFEX "CHECK" INTERFLIGHT??
239.3500 JTFEX??
239.5000 ARMY
239.5500 JTFEX??
239.9000 AR-620
240.1000 DZ OPS MACDILL AFB
240.3000 J-STARS
240.4250 VMFA-112 INTERFLIGHT
240.4750 JTFEX??
240.6000 USCG
242.1500 310AS MACDILL AFB INTERFLIGHT??
242.2000 ARMY
242.2500 JTAC ATLANTIC STRIKE
242.4250 JTFEX??
245.2000 ARMY
245.2500 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
245.6500 VFA-31 TAC
245.7000 ARMY
249.5500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
251.1500 JAX IAP A/D
251.2000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
251.2500 159FS/125FW
252.1000 AF RESERVE
252.1250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***??
252.8000 PATRICK AFB 920RQW??
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.7000 159FS/125FW
254.3250 KZJX
256.1500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
256.5000 NAVY
256.7500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
256.8750 KZMA
256.8750 KZJX
256.9000 KZJX
257.5000 "HYDRA CONTRON" GCI OPS
257.7000 KZMA
257.7500 KZJX
257.7750 NAS WHITING FIELD
257.9000 FAA
257.9750 BREWTON FLD RADIO NAS WHITING FLD
258.7500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
258.9250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
260.8000 NORAD
263.0500 KZJX
263.4500 MOODY AFB GA METRO
264.2000 NAS JAX VP-16 EAGLE BASE
264.6500 BOEING OPS
265.9000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
268.5000 NAVY
269.2500 KZJX
269.3250 JAX IAP A/D
269.4000 TAMPA IAP TOWER
269.5000 FAA
270.5000 NAVY
271.8000 95FS INTERFLIGHT
271.9500 HAVEQUICK
273.2750 JTFEX??
273.3750 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
273.5000 PATRICK AFB ATIS
273.5250 KZJX
273.5500 KZJX
273.8500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
274.5000 VMFA-115 INTERFLIGHT MCAS BEAUFORT SC
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
275.5000 NAVY
275.6500 NAS MAPORT FL
275.7500 NAS MAYPORT FL
275.8000 HURLBURT FLD GROUND CONTROL??
276.0250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
276.3250 JTFEX??
276.4000 NAS JAX GCA
276.6000 AVON PARK RANGE
277.2000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
277.4000 KZJX
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
278.4000 NORAD
279.0500 JTFEX??
279.6000 TAMPA IAP A/D
279.7500 HAVEQUICK
281.5000 KZMA
282.2000 KZJX
282.3000 KZJX
282.4250 CUSTOMS
283.7000 BUCCNEER OPS MACDILL AFB
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.1500 J-STARS
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.5000 KZMA
285.6500 KZJX
288.3000 KZJX
288.4000 NORAD
289.0500 AWACS
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE
290.0000 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
290.3000 TAMPA IAP A/D
290.3500 KZJX
290.4000 KZJX
290.9500 JTFEX??
292.2000 R-2901 AVON PARL RANGE
292.8750 JTFEX??
293.2250 KZMA
293.6000 NORAD
294.5250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
298.5000 NORAD
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
299.5000 NAVY
303.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
303.1000 EGLIN AFB??
303.2750 HAVEQUICK
303.6000 SOUTH WHITING FIELD HT-8 FDO
306.0000 NAS JAX VP-30 OPS
306.9000 KZMA
307.2000 KZJX
307.2500 KZJX
307.3000 KZMA
308.0750 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
308.4000 JAX IAP A/D
308.7500 AWACS
310.2000 NAS JAX BASE OPS
311.0000 6AMW"LIGHTING OPS" MACDILL AFB
311.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI OPS "BRISTOL"
314.2000 159FS/125FW
314.4500 HAVEQUICK
316.2250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
316.3000 NORAD
316.5250 JTFEX??
317.4000 KZJX
317.5250 KZJX
317.6000 KZJX
317.6000 KZMA
318.6000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
319.0000 KZMA
320.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
320.8000 NORAD
321.0000 PATRICK AFB 920RQW
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4250 KZJX
322.4750 KZJX
323.0500 KZJX
323.6250 JTFEX??
324.8000 NAVY
327.1000 KZJX
327.5750 JTFEX??
335.5000 KZMA
335.6000 JAX IAP A/D
338.2500 JAX IAP A/D
341.7000 ORLANDO IAP CD
341.7500 AWACS
343.0000 159FS/125FW
343.5000 NAS JAX METRO
346.3000 KZJX
348.7000 KZMA
349.0000 KZMA
349.4000 USAF ALCC
350.0250 CUSTOMS
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
352.0000 KZJX
352.0250 JTFEX??
353.5750 TAMPA IAP A/D
353.6000 KZMA
357.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
358.8500 NORAD
360.7000 KZJX
360.8000 KZJX
363.0000 KZJX
364.1000 AWACS
364.2000 NORAD AICC
371.0000 EGLIN AFB??
371.9500 KZTL
377.0500 JAX IAP A/D
377.1000 KZMA
380.3000 KZMA
381.5000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
387.0000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
392.2000 EGLIN AFB??
"I am going out on a limb and say this "freqs marked *** are new USAF tactical exercise freqs". I have had these programmed for over 2 years and this is the first time used during a major USAF exercise. The "DART"** A/C was broadcasting description,course and speed of ship's in the exercise area. JTFEX freqs marked ?? are freqs that I have monitored carrier activity in the past."
Jack in Deltona, FL
"Thing's were wild during the month of September. We had an ATLANTIC STRIKE exercise at Avon Park Range and a JTFEX exercise at Pinecastle Range. These are the call sign's monitored by myself and other monitor's. Big thank you to the monitor's to my South! The following call sign's were used during these exercise's."
WARHAWK(ASOC??)
RAVEN A-10C 77FS
THUNDER B--1B 34BS
GAMBLER F-16CM 77FS
RAID KC-135 319ARW
CHILL B-52H 5BW
AVENGER B-52H 2BW?
POKER F-16CM 77FS
TURBO KC-135 22ARW
DEFIANT F-16CM 77FS
JTAC'S
ADVANCE SANDHOG BRUTAL HORSEMEN BLACKJACK DESTORYER HARDLUCK SLAYER BLACKFOOT GHOST
COWBOY SMASHER LIGHTING GRIFFIN
JTFEX
DART (PHOENIX AIR GROUP) COUGAR ?? SENTRY-51 ZAPPER EA-6B VAQ-130 CHECK
RAGIN VICIOUS GYPSY HUSKY
Frequency's monitored:
138.1500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
139.0000 A/G/A UNKNOWN USER
139.2500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
139.2750 USED BEFORE BY MOODY A-10'S
139.6000 A/G/A UNKNOWN USER
140.3750 77FS INTERFLIGHT
140.7000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTIONS
141.3000 NASA VARIETY NET
141.8250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
143.7000 USED BEFORE BY MOODY A-10'S
150.3000 USCG??
225.1500 J-STARS
225.1750 B-1B THUNDER***
225.3250 77FS
225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE
225.6750 VMFA-115 MCAS BEAUFORT SC
225.8750 AWACS
226.4250 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
227.1000 JTFEX??
228.4000 R-3007 TOWNSEND RANGE GA
228.5750 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
229.1750 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
229.3500 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
230.1500 ATLANTIC STRIKE??***
230.2250 JTFEX??
231.6000 JTFEX??
233.2000 ARMY
233.3750 JTFEX??
233.7500 J-STARS
234.2250 JTFEX??
234.8000 159FS/125FW
234.9500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.0500 USAF UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.1500 USAF UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
235.8500 DART MARITIME CONTROL**
236.0750 GRAND BAY RANGE MOODY AFB GA
237.0250 TYNDALL AFB UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
237.2000 ARMY
237.7000 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
238.3500 JTAC AVON PARK RANGE "RED-3"
238.8000 AF OPS NAS KET WEST
239.0000 ORLANDO EXEC TOWER
239.2500 FAA
239.3000 JTFEX "CHECK" INTERFLIGHT??
239.3500 JTFEX??
239.5000 ARMY
239.5500 JTFEX??
239.9000 AR-620
240.1000 DZ OPS MACDILL AFB
240.3000 J-STARS
240.4250 VMFA-112 INTERFLIGHT
240.4750 JTFEX??
240.6000 USCG
242.1500 310AS MACDILL AFB INTERFLIGHT??
242.2000 ARMY
242.2500 JTAC ATLANTIC STRIKE
242.4250 JTFEX??
245.2000 ARMY
245.2500 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
245.6500 VFA-31 TAC
245.7000 ARMY
249.5500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
251.1500 JAX IAP A/D
251.2000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
251.2500 159FS/125FW
252.1000 AF RESERVE
252.1250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***??
252.8000 PATRICK AFB 920RQW??
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.7000 159FS/125FW
254.3250 KZJX
256.1500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
256.5000 NAVY
256.7500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
256.8750 KZMA
256.8750 KZJX
256.9000 KZJX
257.5000 "HYDRA CONTRON" GCI OPS
257.7000 KZMA
257.7500 KZJX
257.7750 NAS WHITING FIELD
257.9000 FAA
257.9750 BREWTON FLD RADIO NAS WHITING FLD
258.7500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
258.9250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
260.8000 NORAD
263.0500 KZJX
263.4500 MOODY AFB GA METRO
264.2000 NAS JAX VP-16 EAGLE BASE
264.6500 BOEING OPS
265.9000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
268.5000 NAVY
269.2500 KZJX
269.3250 JAX IAP A/D
269.4000 TAMPA IAP TOWER
269.5000 FAA
270.5000 NAVY
271.8000 95FS INTERFLIGHT
271.9500 HAVEQUICK
273.2750 JTFEX??
273.3750 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
273.5000 PATRICK AFB ATIS
273.5250 KZJX
273.5500 KZJX
273.8500 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
274.5000 VMFA-115 INTERFLIGHT MCAS BEAUFORT SC
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
275.5000 NAVY
275.6500 NAS MAPORT FL
275.7500 NAS MAYPORT FL
275.8000 HURLBURT FLD GROUND CONTROL??
276.0250 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
276.3250 JTFEX??
276.4000 NAS JAX GCA
276.6000 AVON PARK RANGE
277.2000 UNKNOWN USER/FUNCTION
277.4000 KZJX
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
278.4000 NORAD
279.0500 JTFEX??
279.6000 TAMPA IAP A/D
279.7500 HAVEQUICK
281.5000 KZMA
282.2000 KZJX
282.3000 KZJX
282.4250 CUSTOMS
283.7000 BUCCNEER OPS MACDILL AFB
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.1500 J-STARS
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.5000 KZMA
285.6500 KZJX
288.3000 KZJX
288.4000 NORAD
289.0500 AWACS
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE
290.0000 ATLANTIC STRIKE??
290.3000 TAMPA IAP A/D
290.3500 KZJX
290.4000 KZJX
290.9500 JTFEX??
292.2000 R-2901 AVON PARL RANGE
292.8750 JTFEX??
293.2250 KZMA
293.6000 NORAD
294.5250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
298.5000 NORAD
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
299.5000 NAVY
303.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
303.1000 EGLIN AFB??
303.2750 HAVEQUICK
303.6000 SOUTH WHITING FIELD HT-8 FDO
306.0000 NAS JAX VP-30 OPS
306.9000 KZMA
307.2000 KZJX
307.2500 KZJX
307.3000 KZMA
308.0750 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
308.4000 JAX IAP A/D
308.7500 AWACS
310.2000 NAS JAX BASE OPS
311.0000 6AMW"LIGHTING OPS" MACDILL AFB
311.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI OPS "BRISTOL"
314.2000 159FS/125FW
314.4500 HAVEQUICK
316.2250 ATLANTIC STRIKE***
316.3000 NORAD
316.5250 JTFEX??
317.4000 KZJX
317.5250 KZJX
317.6000 KZJX
317.6000 KZMA
318.6000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
319.0000 KZMA
320.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
320.8000 NORAD
321.0000 PATRICK AFB 920RQW
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4250 KZJX
322.4750 KZJX
323.0500 KZJX
323.6250 JTFEX??
324.8000 NAVY
327.1000 KZJX
327.5750 JTFEX??
335.5000 KZMA
335.6000 JAX IAP A/D
338.2500 JAX IAP A/D
341.7000 ORLANDO IAP CD
341.7500 AWACS
343.0000 159FS/125FW
343.5000 NAS JAX METRO
346.3000 KZJX
348.7000 KZMA
349.0000 KZMA
349.4000 USAF ALCC
350.0250 CUSTOMS
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
352.0000 KZJX
352.0250 JTFEX??
353.5750 TAMPA IAP A/D
353.6000 KZMA
357.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
358.8500 NORAD
360.7000 KZJX
360.8000 KZJX
363.0000 KZJX
364.1000 AWACS
364.2000 NORAD AICC
371.0000 EGLIN AFB??
371.9500 KZTL
377.0500 JAX IAP A/D
377.1000 KZMA
380.3000 KZMA
381.5000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
387.0000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
392.2000 EGLIN AFB??
"I am going out on a limb and say this "freqs marked *** are new USAF tactical exercise freqs". I have had these programmed for over 2 years and this is the first time used during a major USAF exercise. The "DART"** A/C was broadcasting description,course and speed of ship's in the exercise area. JTFEX freqs marked ?? are freqs that I have monitored carrier activity in the past."
Jack in Deltona, FL
Face of Defense: Soldier Draws From Seven Deployments
By Army Sgt. Brandon T. Metroka
Special to American Forces Press Service
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq, Oct. 7, 2009 - For Army Sgt. William Altman, an operations noncommissioned officer with the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade, doing his job with excellence is the motivation that carries him through his daily shift.
"I just enjoy doing a good job," said Altman, an 18-year veteran with seven deployments under his belt. "Keeping the commander updated on the goings-on in our sector is pretty important, and is the objective."
Along with more than 20 other soldiers working various shifts and taskings, Altman is responsible for manning the brigade's tactical operations center, which requires vigilant manning 24 per day, seven days per week. For Altman, the brigade's blue force tracker and fires sergeant, continuity is often the greatest challenge.
"While we might work shifts, any issues must be resolved or worked to completion," Altman said. "Otherwise, we're creating a sort of 'butterfly effect' for the next shift."
Altman is no stranger to working in current operations. With his multiple deployments, Altman brings a trove of experience to a fairly reactive job often misunderstood by other soldiers.
"Other sections might work a normal work day and be closed for certain periods," Altman said. "Here, the lights never go out. Operations are continuous."
Fighting complacency and mid-deployment doldrums is essential to proficiency, he said. All soldiers, from the battle captain, who is the quarterback of the section, to the radio telephone operator who functions as the primary medium for passing and receiving information, must be cognizant of the big picture at all times. Soldiers must be prepared for the unexpected, including indirect fire attacks, small-arms fire attacks on aircraft and diverting air support for soldiers on the ground.
"We manage to handle high-stress events well, mostly because we all know our roles," Altman said. "Even when days are fairly quiet, we have to fight boredom by trying to stay proficient on our equipment."
Although the tempo occasionally slows, there is never a shortage of work for the soldiers. Altman and the staff keep busy by organizing various document binders, from fragmentary orders to Red Cross messages, maintaining the daily log, making changes to personnel flight manifestos, and keeping track of scheduled flights.
Soldiers also are trained on state-of-the-art electronic systems like the Blue Force Tracker, which uses global-positioning technology to view the location of aircraft and vehicles during missions. In addition, soldiers have more traditional methods of communication and battle-tracking tools at their disposal, to include instant messaging, phone lines and FM and high-frequency radios. Numerous maps and overlays line the walls of the operations center for reference and as an alternative method of tracking the location of aircraft.
"If technology fails, we still must be knowledgeable enough to be able to accomplish our mission," Altman said. "Pencils and paper, charts and darts; our jobs don't stop just because the technology stops working."
(Army Sgt. Brandon T. Metroka serves with the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq, Oct. 7, 2009 - For Army Sgt. William Altman, an operations noncommissioned officer with the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade, doing his job with excellence is the motivation that carries him through his daily shift.
"I just enjoy doing a good job," said Altman, an 18-year veteran with seven deployments under his belt. "Keeping the commander updated on the goings-on in our sector is pretty important, and is the objective."
Along with more than 20 other soldiers working various shifts and taskings, Altman is responsible for manning the brigade's tactical operations center, which requires vigilant manning 24 per day, seven days per week. For Altman, the brigade's blue force tracker and fires sergeant, continuity is often the greatest challenge.
"While we might work shifts, any issues must be resolved or worked to completion," Altman said. "Otherwise, we're creating a sort of 'butterfly effect' for the next shift."
Altman is no stranger to working in current operations. With his multiple deployments, Altman brings a trove of experience to a fairly reactive job often misunderstood by other soldiers.
"Other sections might work a normal work day and be closed for certain periods," Altman said. "Here, the lights never go out. Operations are continuous."
Fighting complacency and mid-deployment doldrums is essential to proficiency, he said. All soldiers, from the battle captain, who is the quarterback of the section, to the radio telephone operator who functions as the primary medium for passing and receiving information, must be cognizant of the big picture at all times. Soldiers must be prepared for the unexpected, including indirect fire attacks, small-arms fire attacks on aircraft and diverting air support for soldiers on the ground.
"We manage to handle high-stress events well, mostly because we all know our roles," Altman said. "Even when days are fairly quiet, we have to fight boredom by trying to stay proficient on our equipment."
Although the tempo occasionally slows, there is never a shortage of work for the soldiers. Altman and the staff keep busy by organizing various document binders, from fragmentary orders to Red Cross messages, maintaining the daily log, making changes to personnel flight manifestos, and keeping track of scheduled flights.
Soldiers also are trained on state-of-the-art electronic systems like the Blue Force Tracker, which uses global-positioning technology to view the location of aircraft and vehicles during missions. In addition, soldiers have more traditional methods of communication and battle-tracking tools at their disposal, to include instant messaging, phone lines and FM and high-frequency radios. Numerous maps and overlays line the walls of the operations center for reference and as an alternative method of tracking the location of aircraft.
"If technology fails, we still must be knowledgeable enough to be able to accomplish our mission," Altman said. "Pencils and paper, charts and darts; our jobs don't stop just because the technology stops working."
(Army Sgt. Brandon T. Metroka serves with the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade.)
Polar icebreaker returns from Arctic
The Seattle Times online website (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009985331_polar02.html) is reporting the following story.
The Coast Guard icebreaker Healy has returned to Seattle after completing a summer scientific mission that included mapping parts of the Arctic Ocean seafloor along with a Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker.
The 420-foot Healy, home-ported in Seattle, arrived at Pier 36 midday Thursday, a Coast Guard spokesman said. It now will go into dry dock for maintenance.
The Healy, commissioned in 2000, is the largest of the three Coast Guard polar icebreakers. The cutter's primary mission is scientific support in the Arctic. It also can handle other missions, such as search and rescue, ship escorts, environmental protection and enforcement of laws and treaties in the polar regions.
Milcom Blog Logs - October 2, 2009 - Australia
Our friend and a MMP reporter from down under, Eddy Waters in South Australia, checks in with a couple of HF logs including a possible Indonesia earthquake related freq. Thanks Eddy for sharing with my MMP readers.
6768.5 Unknown Indonesian location. Messages re- update of various areas situation re the recent earthquake. In indonesian language, but could understand names of places, Banda Aceh, Padang, Matan, Medang etc. CW. Went off the air at 0930 UTC. First time heard. (EW).
8050.0 Fort Bragg North Carolina. Ale address DKB. Mil-Std 141A. 1055 UTC.
6768.5 Unknown Indonesian location. Messages re- update of various areas situation re the recent earthquake. In indonesian language, but could understand names of places, Banda Aceh, Padang, Matan, Medang etc. CW. Went off the air at 0930 UTC. First time heard. (EW).
8050.0 Fort Bragg North Carolina. Ale address DKB. Mil-Std 141A. 1055 UTC.
Thursday, October 01, 2009
New Missile Plan Serves Same Objectives, Officials Say
By John J. Kruzel, American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON - The adoption of a new U.S. missile defense approach does not represent a departure from earlier objectives nor was it influenced by U.S.-Russian relations, top Defense Department officials said today.
Like the old system that would have placed missile defense equipment in Poland and the Czech Republic, the proposal announced last month places priority on protecting the United States, American troops abroad and NATO allies on the European continent, Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told lawmakers.
"Our recommendations are not a departure from the objectives," he told the House Armed Services Committee, referring to what he called the three-layered approach.
As opposed to earlier plans to build ground-based components in Eastern Europe, defense officials have said a new sea-based approach is better suited to intelligence on Iranian threats and would provide protection sooner.
Some have interpreted this move away from the plan to place advanced radars in the Czech Republic and 10 ground-based interceptors in Poland as intended to gain political favor with Moscow, which vocally opposed the ground-based approach. But in her remarks to the committee today, Michele Flournoy, undersecretary of defense for policy, emphasized that the decision to alter the missile defense system's architecture was aimed at better securing American interests.
"We certainly welcome Russian interest in the new approach, as well as potential Russian cooperation in sharing data from their radars. But this is not about Russia," she said. "It never has been about Russia. Regardless of the Russian reaction, we will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure our security and those of our partners and allies."
In December 2006, when intelligence suggested the development of Iran's intercontinental ballistic missile was the foremost threat to the United States and its allies, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates recommended to then-President George W. Bush that the United States adopt the ground-based approach.
But with current intelligence reports suggesting Iran is moving faster to develop its shorter-range missiles, Gates has said the new architecture better protects the United States and its European allies.
"The original program that I recommended would have had no capability against short- and medium-range missiles until probably 2018," Gates said at a Pentagon news conference last month. "What the new system provides is some capability beginning in 2011 that will grow steadily each year in terms of its sophistication and its coverage of Europe. The next phase would begin in 2015."
Gates -- a former CIA director -- said the new arrangement is preferable even if U.S. intelligence assessments that indicate Iran is more focused on developing short and mid-range missiles over long-range capabilities prove incorrect.
Flournoy amplified that position at today's hearing, saying the previous configuration was based on threat information and technology that is now outdated.
"Circumstances have changed since then," she told lawmakers. "First, the intelligence picture has evolved. And second, we have made major strides in missile defense technologies and capabilities in just the last few years. We are now in a position to put in place a far more effective missile defense system more rapidly than just a few years ago."
An additional drawback to the previous plan was that ground-based interceptors designed to deal with no more than five enemy missiles at once were prone to being overwhelmed by a larger salvo fired simultaneously, Army Lt. Gen. Patrick J. O'Reilly, director of the Missile Defense Agency, told lawmakers.
"The previously proposed European defense architecture was insufficient to protect NATO and our forward-based forces, and provide redundant coverage of the United States homeland," he said.
President Barack Obama's announcement of the new program last month puts the United States on track for a four-phase missile defense program with the ultimate goal being a robust, interconnected, multinational system.
Deploying the Navy's ships equipped with the Aegis weapons system to the region by 2011 drives the new plan's initial phase. Their Standard Missile 3 interceptor has passed several tests in the past two years, and forward-position Army radar systems will support them.
This will give the military a smaller range of detection and protection, but is enough initially to protect U.S. troops and allies against Iran's shorter-range missiles, officials said.
WASHINGTON - The adoption of a new U.S. missile defense approach does not represent a departure from earlier objectives nor was it influenced by U.S.-Russian relations, top Defense Department officials said today.
Like the old system that would have placed missile defense equipment in Poland and the Czech Republic, the proposal announced last month places priority on protecting the United States, American troops abroad and NATO allies on the European continent, Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told lawmakers.
"Our recommendations are not a departure from the objectives," he told the House Armed Services Committee, referring to what he called the three-layered approach.
As opposed to earlier plans to build ground-based components in Eastern Europe, defense officials have said a new sea-based approach is better suited to intelligence on Iranian threats and would provide protection sooner.
Some have interpreted this move away from the plan to place advanced radars in the Czech Republic and 10 ground-based interceptors in Poland as intended to gain political favor with Moscow, which vocally opposed the ground-based approach. But in her remarks to the committee today, Michele Flournoy, undersecretary of defense for policy, emphasized that the decision to alter the missile defense system's architecture was aimed at better securing American interests.
"We certainly welcome Russian interest in the new approach, as well as potential Russian cooperation in sharing data from their radars. But this is not about Russia," she said. "It never has been about Russia. Regardless of the Russian reaction, we will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure our security and those of our partners and allies."
In December 2006, when intelligence suggested the development of Iran's intercontinental ballistic missile was the foremost threat to the United States and its allies, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates recommended to then-President George W. Bush that the United States adopt the ground-based approach.
But with current intelligence reports suggesting Iran is moving faster to develop its shorter-range missiles, Gates has said the new architecture better protects the United States and its European allies.
"The original program that I recommended would have had no capability against short- and medium-range missiles until probably 2018," Gates said at a Pentagon news conference last month. "What the new system provides is some capability beginning in 2011 that will grow steadily each year in terms of its sophistication and its coverage of Europe. The next phase would begin in 2015."
Gates -- a former CIA director -- said the new arrangement is preferable even if U.S. intelligence assessments that indicate Iran is more focused on developing short and mid-range missiles over long-range capabilities prove incorrect.
Flournoy amplified that position at today's hearing, saying the previous configuration was based on threat information and technology that is now outdated.
"Circumstances have changed since then," she told lawmakers. "First, the intelligence picture has evolved. And second, we have made major strides in missile defense technologies and capabilities in just the last few years. We are now in a position to put in place a far more effective missile defense system more rapidly than just a few years ago."
An additional drawback to the previous plan was that ground-based interceptors designed to deal with no more than five enemy missiles at once were prone to being overwhelmed by a larger salvo fired simultaneously, Army Lt. Gen. Patrick J. O'Reilly, director of the Missile Defense Agency, told lawmakers.
"The previously proposed European defense architecture was insufficient to protect NATO and our forward-based forces, and provide redundant coverage of the United States homeland," he said.
President Barack Obama's announcement of the new program last month puts the United States on track for a four-phase missile defense program with the ultimate goal being a robust, interconnected, multinational system.
Deploying the Navy's ships equipped with the Aegis weapons system to the region by 2011 drives the new plan's initial phase. Their Standard Missile 3 interceptor has passed several tests in the past two years, and forward-position Army radar systems will support them.
This will give the military a smaller range of detection and protection, but is enough initially to protect U.S. troops and allies against Iran's shorter-range missiles, officials said.
Hawaii National Guard, FEMA Teams to Assist American Samoa
By Gerry J. Gilmore, American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON - In response to Federal Emergency Management Agency requests, National Guard assets from Hawaii continue to provide air-cargo operations and other support to tsunami victims on American Samoa, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters here today.
Support requested by American Samoa authorities includes power-generation equipment, medical supplies, food, water and shelter-support, including bedding and blankets, Whitman said.
"We'll continue to do that for some time," Whitman told reporters, noting nearly 100 Hawaii National Guard personnel are involved in airlift and humanitarian-relief operations for American Samoa.
An 8.4 magnitude earthquake struck near the Samoa Islands region Sept. 29, causing devastating 15-to-20-foot-high waves to cascade inland across the South Pacific archipelago, including the eastern side of American Samoa, a U.S. possession.
FEMA, which maintains well-stocked warehouses in Guam and Honolulu, is deploying resources to American Samoa, including water and meals, to support 70,000 survivors over the coming week.
Two C-17 Globemaster III cargo planes departed Hawaii today en route to American Samoa with FEMA members, food and water, and mortuary-affairs assets aboard, Whitman said. Another C-17 is slated to leave Hawaii for American Samoa later today, he added, carrying more equipment and supplies.
The first of four C-17 relief flights to American Samoa left Hawaii yesterday afternoon, Whitman said, carrying medical, search-and-rescue, and communications personnel, as well as supplies and equipment.
Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell yesterday outlined some of the infrastructure for the effort.
"We are providing Travis Air Force Base in California, Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii [and] Andersen Air Force Base in Guam as base support installations," he said. "These are basically staging areas for operations to provide aid and assistance to those in American Samoa. We're going to be providing medical triage, [hazardous materials] response, mass-casualty care and strategic airlift. That's what the focus at the outset will be of our assistance."
The Navy yesterday dispatched the frigate USS Ingraham to assist humanitarian-relief efforts in American Samoa. The Ingraham was in the region when the tsunami struck.
U.S. military personnel also are assisting relief efforts in the Philippines, which has experienced massive flooding.
WASHINGTON - In response to Federal Emergency Management Agency requests, National Guard assets from Hawaii continue to provide air-cargo operations and other support to tsunami victims on American Samoa, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters here today.
Support requested by American Samoa authorities includes power-generation equipment, medical supplies, food, water and shelter-support, including bedding and blankets, Whitman said.
"We'll continue to do that for some time," Whitman told reporters, noting nearly 100 Hawaii National Guard personnel are involved in airlift and humanitarian-relief operations for American Samoa.
An 8.4 magnitude earthquake struck near the Samoa Islands region Sept. 29, causing devastating 15-to-20-foot-high waves to cascade inland across the South Pacific archipelago, including the eastern side of American Samoa, a U.S. possession.
FEMA, which maintains well-stocked warehouses in Guam and Honolulu, is deploying resources to American Samoa, including water and meals, to support 70,000 survivors over the coming week.
Two C-17 Globemaster III cargo planes departed Hawaii today en route to American Samoa with FEMA members, food and water, and mortuary-affairs assets aboard, Whitman said. Another C-17 is slated to leave Hawaii for American Samoa later today, he added, carrying more equipment and supplies.
The first of four C-17 relief flights to American Samoa left Hawaii yesterday afternoon, Whitman said, carrying medical, search-and-rescue, and communications personnel, as well as supplies and equipment.
Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell yesterday outlined some of the infrastructure for the effort.
"We are providing Travis Air Force Base in California, Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii [and] Andersen Air Force Base in Guam as base support installations," he said. "These are basically staging areas for operations to provide aid and assistance to those in American Samoa. We're going to be providing medical triage, [hazardous materials] response, mass-casualty care and strategic airlift. That's what the focus at the outset will be of our assistance."
The Navy yesterday dispatched the frigate USS Ingraham to assist humanitarian-relief efforts in American Samoa. The Ingraham was in the region when the tsunami struck.
U.S. military personnel also are assisting relief efforts in the Philippines, which has experienced massive flooding.
Denver ARG Conducts Amphibious Integration Training
Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) embark Marines from 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) during combat rubber raid craft exercises. Harpers Ferry is part of the Denver Amphibious Ready Group and is conducting Amphibious Integration Training with the 31st MEU off the coast of Okinawa, Japan in preparation for Fall Patrol. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua J. Wahl/Released)
Ramage Departs for Joint Warrior
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker, Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs
USS RAMAGE, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), led by Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 24, departed Naval Station Norfolk Sept. 23 and is in transit to participate in Exercise Joint Warrior 2009 (EJW09).
EJW09 is a multiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployments.
The exercise, which is scheduled Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, 2nd Fleet's three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fleet operations to achieve missions, providing ready maritime forces for global assignment and teaming with allies and partners in execution of the maritime strategy.
Ramage will be working alongside the Royal Navy's HMS Illustrious's (R 06) strike group, acting as the air defense commander. The crew's mission in the scenario will be to defend friendly forces against air and missile attacks, as well as to perform maritime security operations and various warfare missions, such as defense against small boat attacks, air defense, anti-submarine warfare and boarding operations.
"Ramage's crew is looking forward to the outstanding training and once-in-a-lifetime, post-exercise liberty opportunities," said Ramage's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Peter Galluch. "The ship will get realistic training with great U.S. and allied forces that will prepare us for our upcoming deployment."
Ramage has prepared for this exercise since returning from deployment in April 2009. Since her return, the ship spent nine weeks in the shipyards, followed by a rigorous training cycle to ensure all equipment and personnel are mission-ready.
DESRON 24 Commodore, Capt. John Kersh, visited Ramage Sept. 25 to thank the crew for all their hard work.
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your great work in making this ship so very ready to get underway for Joint Warrior [EJW09]," Kersh said. "You have all had a tough schedule, and I am very proud of you! Thank you for delivering a warship ready for tasking."
EJW09 is held twice a year and serves as a deployment certification for U.S. ships.
Nations participating in EJW09 include Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States.
USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) conducts joint exercises with French Navy.
The USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) recently conducted joint exercises with the French Navy.
To view a video report click here http://www.navy.mil/swf/mmu/mmplyr.asp?id=13215
To view a video report click here http://www.navy.mil/swf/mmu/mmplyr.asp?id=13215
Coast Guard hoists crewman from U.S. Navy submarine - video
ASTORIA, Ore. – The Coast Guard medically evacuated a crewmember from a U.S. Navy submarine off the coast of Washington on Tuesday.
The Navy contacted the Coast Guard at 5:50 p.m. to request assistance in transferring a crewmember to a hospital from the submarine.
Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Ore., launched an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew to assist. The rescue helicopter arrived on scene at 7:12 p.m. and hoisted the crewmember by basket from the sail of the submarine.
The crewmember was transferred to Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Ore.
The first video was shot by the helicopter crew while the second is from the helicopter hoist camera.
U.S. Coast Guard video by Air Station Astoria
The Navy contacted the Coast Guard at 5:50 p.m. to request assistance in transferring a crewmember to a hospital from the submarine.
Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Ore., launched an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew to assist. The rescue helicopter arrived on scene at 7:12 p.m. and hoisted the crewmember by basket from the sail of the submarine.
The crewmember was transferred to Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Ore.
The first video was shot by the helicopter crew while the second is from the helicopter hoist camera.
U.S. Coast Guard video by Air Station Astoria
Milcom Blog Logs - Sep 28-30 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.
28 Sep
08094.0 Unid: 1820 CW w/5-ltr groups. Prob Cuban DGI. (RP-MD)
10242.0 N05 (USCG HC-144A #2305 ATC Mobile AL): 2000 USB/ALE calling LNT (CamsLant Chesapeake VA)--in voice Casa 05 calling CamsLant.(RP-MD)
08266.0 O/M (Spanish): 2105 USB w/O/M (Spanish).(RP-MD)
08125.0 O/M (Brazilian Portuguese): 2107 USB w/O/M (Brazilian Portuguese).(RP-MD)
08350.0 Unid: 2120 CW w/5-ltr groups. Prob Cuban DGI.(RP-MD)
08141.0 O/M (Italian): 2144 USB w/O/M (Italian). Prob maritime link.(RP-MD)
08392.0 O/M (Brazilian Portuguese): 2302 USB w/O/M (weak-unreadable). (RP-MD)
29 Sep
08376.7 Unid: 2125 ARQ. Looks like Egyptian diplomatic ARQ but poor signal. (RP-MD)
08345.0 RFH77 (Russian Navy warship): 2230 CW working w/RIW (HQs Russian Navy, Moscow) & RIT (Russian Navy Northern Fleet HQs). (RP-MD)
08343.0 O/M (Spanish): 2252 USB w/Y/L & O/M (Spanish). Poss maritime link. (RP-MD)
08337.6 Shark 03 (USCGC Matagorda, WPB-1303, Mimai FL): 2259 USB w/Tiger 24 (USCG MH-60J # 6024, CGAS Clearwater FL), Shark 03 gives position as 20nms from benchmark Echo on heading of 261 degrees. Shark 03 advises Shark 24 that UHF comms are on 354.0 and VHF comms are on marine channel 83A. Shark 03 advises 24 that the flight deck is currently not manned and that 24 should orbit for awhile. (RP-MD)
08404.0 O/M (Spanish): 2329 LSB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
08285.5 O/M (Spanish): 2335 USB w/O/M (Spanish). Caught at sign off. (RP-MD).
30 Sep
08350.0 Unid: 2140 CW w/5-ltr groups. Poss Cuban DGI. (RP-MD)
08902.5 O/M (Spanish): 2351 USB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
08858.0 Y/L (Spanish): 2353 LSB w/O/M (Spanish). Poss out-of-band maritime link. (RP-MD)
08989.0 O/M (Spanish): 2355 USB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
28 Sep
08094.0 Unid: 1820 CW w/5-ltr groups. Prob Cuban DGI. (RP-MD)
10242.0 N05 (USCG HC-144A #2305 ATC Mobile AL): 2000 USB/ALE calling LNT (CamsLant Chesapeake VA)--in voice Casa 05 calling CamsLant.(RP-MD)
08266.0 O/M (Spanish): 2105 USB w/O/M (Spanish).(RP-MD)
08125.0 O/M (Brazilian Portuguese): 2107 USB w/O/M (Brazilian Portuguese).(RP-MD)
08350.0 Unid: 2120 CW w/5-ltr groups. Prob Cuban DGI.(RP-MD)
08141.0 O/M (Italian): 2144 USB w/O/M (Italian). Prob maritime link.(RP-MD)
08392.0 O/M (Brazilian Portuguese): 2302 USB w/O/M (weak-unreadable). (RP-MD)
29 Sep
08376.7 Unid: 2125 ARQ. Looks like Egyptian diplomatic ARQ but poor signal. (RP-MD)
08345.0 RFH77 (Russian Navy warship): 2230 CW working w/RIW (HQs Russian Navy, Moscow) & RIT (Russian Navy Northern Fleet HQs). (RP-MD)
08343.0 O/M (Spanish): 2252 USB w/Y/L & O/M (Spanish). Poss maritime link. (RP-MD)
08337.6 Shark 03 (USCGC Matagorda, WPB-1303, Mimai FL): 2259 USB w/Tiger 24 (USCG MH-60J # 6024, CGAS Clearwater FL), Shark 03 gives position as 20nms from benchmark Echo on heading of 261 degrees. Shark 03 advises Shark 24 that UHF comms are on 354.0 and VHF comms are on marine channel 83A. Shark 03 advises 24 that the flight deck is currently not manned and that 24 should orbit for awhile. (RP-MD)
08404.0 O/M (Spanish): 2329 LSB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
08285.5 O/M (Spanish): 2335 USB w/O/M (Spanish). Caught at sign off. (RP-MD).
30 Sep
08350.0 Unid: 2140 CW w/5-ltr groups. Poss Cuban DGI. (RP-MD)
08902.5 O/M (Spanish): 2351 USB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
08858.0 Y/L (Spanish): 2353 LSB w/O/M (Spanish). Poss out-of-band maritime link. (RP-MD)
08989.0 O/M (Spanish): 2355 USB w/O/M (Spanish). (RP-MD).
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