USS Jason Dunham Leads Strait Transit Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) William Jamieson, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) successfully led a simulated strait transit off the eastern coast of the United States May 8.

The exercise was designed to test the participant ship's ability to navigate safely, while also dealing with threats that could be encountered transiting straits in hostile waters.

"This exercise really helped to drive home the importance of coordination and communication between watchstanders, our bridge, and the other ships in the surface action group," said Cmdr. David A. Bretz, commanding officer of Jason Dunham. "Every member of the crew had an important part to play in this exercise, and I'm proud to say they performed up to the high expectations of Jason Dunham."

The surface action group participating in the Jason Dunham-led exercise consisted of guided-missile destroyers USS Farragut (DDG 99) and USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79); and guided-missile frigates USS Carr (FFG 52) and USS Klakring (FFG 42).

During the transit, the surface action group was confronted with multiple possible threats, including low-flying aircraft, small boats, and the presence of mines.

"We know we have to go into any strait transit, real or simulated, knowing anything can happen," said Ensign Omar Amakhtari, who served as officer of the deck aboard Jason Dunham during the exercise. "If one watchstander isn't doing his or her job for one moment, it can provide enough of an opening to compromise the ship. Our guys are mindful of that, and they did a great job of showing it."

Special care was taken throughout the exercise to avoid escalating an encounter and turning it into an unnecessary conflict.

"The men and women manning weapons on board are well trained and understand you have to stay calm while maintaining vigilance," said Amakhtari. "Our goal is to pass through without an incident, but we want to always be ready to respond and deal with any situation we confront."

Jason Dunham is a part of Carrier Strike Group 8, which is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) in the Atlantic Ocean, while preparing for their maiden deployment.

USS Nicholas Supports Drug Interdiction

By Lt. Matt Phillips, USS Nicholas Public Affairs

USS NICHOLAS, At Sea (NNS) -- Guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) assisted partner nation forces with the interdiction of a vessel carrying nearly 2,200 kilograms (4,850 pounds) of cocaine, with an estimated street value of more than $363 million, in the eastern Pacific May 6.

The interdiction was conducted as part of Operation Martillo, a U.S., European, and Western Hemisphere partner nation effort targeting illicit trafficking routes in coastal waters along the Central American isthmus. 'Martillo' is the Spanish word for 'hammer.'

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection P-3 Orion initially detected the speedboat, "El Kike," and then turned over tracking to a helicopter from Nicholas. The helicopter tracked the suspect "go-fast" vessel until Nicholas was in position to make a coordinated approach with the helicopter. The go-fast vessel then stopped, jettisoned approximately half of its cargo, then turned and made best speed to Colombia.

Nicholas, with embarked U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET), adjusted course while contacting nearby forces - USS McClusky (FFG 41) and Colombian navy ship ARC 20 de Julio for assistance. A helicopter attached to McClusky maintained surveillance of the go-fast and was able to divert the speedboat into Colombian territorial waters where it was interdicted by the Colombian navy.

"With the help of some friends, we accomplished what we set out to do - disrupt the drug trade," said Cmdr. Stephen Fuller, commanding officer of Nicholas. "Interdictions are challenging, but with the help of McClusky, [U.S.] Customs, and the Colombian navy, we executed a successful operation."

U.S. military participation in Operation Martillo is being led by Joint Interagency Task Force-South, a component of U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM). Operation Martillo is a component of the U.S. government's coordinated interagency regional security strategy in support of the White House strategy to combat transnational organized crime and the U.S. Central America Regional Security Initiative.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) supports USSOUTHCOM joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 9 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE0470 57-1428 SODA82 2012-05-09 19:17:36 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
C2B535 130602 CFC2574 2012-05-09 17:52:24 CC-130J-30 Canada CFC | 8WG [CYTR]
AE0470 57-1428 SODA82 2012-05-09 16:44:40 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
4D03C2 LX-N90444 NATO14 2012-05-09 16:41:39 E-3A Luxembourg NAEWandCF 1755 29000
AE07ED 96-0003 RCH103 2012-05-09 15:44:20 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
4D03C2 LX-N90444 NATO14 2012-05-09 14:54:57 E-3A Luxembourg NAEWandCF
AE068F 62-3534 KANZA91 2012-05-09 14:22:13 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] 6515 37000
AE1BF5 07-46312 GLEAN65 2012-05-09 14:19:47 C-130J-30 United States --- 1611 27000
AE1443 05-8157 REACH640 2012-05-09 13:56:23 C-130J-30 United States AFRC | 403AW | 815AS [KBIX]
AE1536 06-8159 REACH149 2012-05-09 13:27:40 WC-130J-30 United States AFRC | 403AW | 815AS [KBIX]
AE1444 05-8158 HOBBY67 2012-05-09 13:14:02 C-130J-30 United States AFRC | 403AW | 815AS [KBIX]
A6E75F N544GA --- 2012-05-09 03:17:13 690D United States STATE OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 7-8 May 2012 - Bowling Green KY

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor DavidP in Bowling Green, KY. Thanks David.

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-05-07
Military Hex Codes only

A71AB8 -------- N557PG C560 US FBI HQ --- 2012-05-07 10:30:13.902
ADFD86 -------- 94-0259 SW4 Det4/DC-ArNG --- 2012-05-07 10:55:53.551
ADFDC3 EPIC 60 93-1456 C130 NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT] --- 2012-05-07 14:27:45.205
ADFE77 -------- 92-1452 C130 IL ANG | 182AW | 169AS [KPIA] --- 2012-05-07 11:50:01.031
ADFE95 -------- 95-0096 BE20 USARMY --- 2012-05-07 10:16:08.059
ADFEB8 AF2 98-0002 B752 USAF | 89AW | 1AS [KADW] --- 2012-05-07 11:18:21.617
ADFF76 -------- 65-10474 T38 50thFTS --- 2012-05-07 17:21:51.510
AE014D HAPPY63 58-0023 K35R IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-07 17:42:13.175
AE0155 -------- 62-3507 K35R USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] --- 2012-05-07 15:42:27.622
AE01BD SPAR501 84-0131 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW] --- 2012-05-07 08:08:17.752
AE0265 SODA72 57-1436 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-07 13:34:02.920
AE02E2 -------- 81-0627 C130 AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE] --- 2012-05-07 10:00:53.707
AE02FF PITT 09 78-0809 C130 AFRC | 911AW | 758AS [KPIT] --- 2012-05-07 14:33:43.914
AE0361 SLUFF91 59-1444 K35R OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK] --- 2012-05-07 10:37:36.069
AE0389 TOPCAT4 62-3514 K35R NJ ANG | 108W | 141ARS [KWRI] --- 2012-05-07 11:38:05.271
AE0433 -------- 02-5001 B752 USAF | 486FLTS [KVPS] --- 2012-05-07 20:31:32.420
AE04AA -------- 99-0101 C560 USARC | C/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KGRK] --- 2012-05-07 17:16:07.162
AE0528 -------- 69-0002 C5 AFRC | 433AW | 68AS [KSKF] --- 2012-05-07 15:07:51.025
AE0596 -------- 59-1460 K35R PA ANG | 171ARW [KPIT] --- 2012-05-07 11:38:47.392
AE07D4 RHINO90 90-0535 C17 AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] --- 2012-05-07 12:35:04.343
AE07D6 RCH2292 92-3292 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-07 13:05:13.239
AE07DD RHINO50 93-0603 C17 AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] --- 2012-05-07 10:50:13.537
AE07E0 RCH616T 94-0066 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-05-07 17:20:56.661
AE07E4 RCH4070 94-0070 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-07 20:27:23.862
AE0976 CNV4284 165833 B737 USNR | VR-59 [KNFW] --- 2012-05-07 09:13:49.842
AE0C03 -------- 89-26170 H60 USARMY --- 2012-05-07 13:05:06.048
AE10B5 STORK41 01-0186 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-05-07 17:36:55.397
AE10BE -------- 01-0195 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-07 09:38:55.068
AE1193 -------- 166500 C560 USMC | VMR DET MIRAMAR [KNKX] --- 2012-05-07 07:38:51.377
AE11D9 SNTRY60H 75-0559 E3TF USAF | 552ACW [KTIK] --- 2012-05-07 13:45:17.454
AE123F -------- 04-4134 C17 USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI] --- 2012-05-07 08:06:06.346
AE13D1 -------- 04-1778 GLF5 USARMY | OSACOM PATD [KADW] --- 2012-05-07 14:56:29.031
AE143A -------- 166715 C560 USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT] --- 2012-05-07 09:40:18.358
AE146D RCH651 07-7175 C17 USAF | 436AW | 3AS [KDOV] --- 2012-05-07 22:10:32.710
AE1493 PEACH99 96-0043 B703 GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] --- 2012-05-07 11:58:29.728
AE151A -------- 166377 GLF5 USN | VR-1 [KADW] --- 2012-05-07 13:09:44.950
AE49C2 RCH9206 09-9206 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-07 16:57:33.477
AE4AE3 KEYS82 09-27020 ??? C27J OH ANG | 179AW | 164AS [KMFD] --- 2012-05-07 14:04:41.001

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-05-08
Military Hex Codes only

4D03C2 -------- LX-N90444 E3TF NAEWandCF --- 2012-05-08 09:58:03.047
A0C100 -------- N148GB BE40 L-3 Communications Flight Capital LLC --- 2012-05-08 13:37:32.178
A4F2EE -------- N418MC B744 AtlasAir --- 2012-05-08 02:28:11.039
AAEC74 -------- 10-0256 BE20 US Army | B/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KFTK] --- 2012-05-08 13:04:12.933
ADFC6B -------- 90-0409 BE40 USAF | 71FTW | 32FTS [KEND] --- 2012-05-08 20:38:20.374
ADFCEB -------- 94-0140 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 16:15:36.325
ADFCEC -------- 94-0141 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 16:45:54.645
ADFCED -------- 94-0142 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 20:37:10.646
ADFCF2 -------- 94-0147 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 12:11:15.048
ADFCF5 -------- 95-0041 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 16:54:19.337
ADFD00 -------- 95-0052 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 13:22:57.473
ADFD02 -------- 95-0054 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 14:33:32.809
ADFD05 -------- 95-0057 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-05-08 21:49:12.868
ADFDBF TORCH88 93-7312 C130 IL ANG | 182AW | 169AS [KPIA] --- 2012-05-08 10:39:31.323
ADFE62 -------- 91-1231 C130 KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF] --- 2012-05-08 19:02:46.437
ADFE8E STGMA36 95-0089 BE20 USARC | 339 MI CO [KNFW] --- 2012-05-08 15:33:39.763
ADFECB -------- 84-0485 BE20 KY ARNG | OSACOM DET-11 [KFFT] --- 2012-05-08 09:22:54.886
ADFECF -------- 84-0489 BE20 NV ARNG | OSACOM DET-45 [KRTS] --- 2012-05-08 17:48:05.215
ADFED0 PAT263 85-1262 BE20 USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG) --- 2012-05-08 07:12:40.481
ADFEE3 -------- 159114 DC93 USNR | VR-61 [KNUW] --- 2012-05-08 12:46:06.558
ADFEFF -------- 86-0089 BE20 IL ARNG | OSACOM DET-36 [KDEC] --- 2012-05-08 09:29:57.494
ADFF76 -------- 65-10474 T38 50thFTS --- 2012-05-08 17:01:54.293
ADFF99 -------- 68-8202 T38 50thFTS --- 2012-05-08 20:45:54.576
ADFF9F -------- 69-7075 T38 50thFTS --- 2012-05-08 20:31:14.966
AE018C SPAR488 84-0098 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW] --- 2012-05-08 14:38:39.026
AE0197 -------- 84-0137 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW] --- 2012-05-08 05:34:10.883
AE0227 OPEC01 86-0028 DC10 USAF | 305AMW [KWRI] --- 2012-05-08 10:15:36.638
AE0265 -------- 57-1436 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-08 13:20:39.209
AE032A RCH4429 74-1684 C130 USAF | 374AW | 36AS [RJTY] --- 2012-05-08 09:07:44.047
AE0383 SOONR84 58-0079 K35R AFRC | 507ARW | 465ARS [KTIK] --- 2012-05-08 12:46:30.118
AE03E2 -------- 164995 C130 USNR | VR-53 [KADW] --- 2012-05-08 20:52:12.370
AE0423 SODA82 59-1505 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-08 10:47:58.033
AE0428 TAZZ72 62-3511 K35R OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK] --- 2012-05-08 12:27:39.161
AE0433 -------- 02-5001 B752 USAF | 486FLTS [KVPS] --- 2012-05-08 20:07:41.670
AE047F SODA81 59-1509 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-08 11:02:20.953
AE047F WIDE01 59-1509 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-08 11:02:20.953
AE04E4 DECEE22 59-1469 K35R AFRC | 459ARW | 756ARS [KADW] --- 2012-05-08 10:14:28.687
AE0523 -------- 68-0223 C5 AFRC | 433AW | 68AS [KSKF] --- 2012-05-08 19:09:23.912
AE0549 -------- 70-0452 C5 WV ANG | 167AW | 167AS [KMRB] --- 2012-05-08 12:02:58.510
AE0650 JEEP22 58-0049 K35R MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC] --- 2012-05-08 10:33:06.589
AE0656 OKIE21 58-0102 K35R AFRC | 507ARW | 465ARS [KTIK] --- 2012-05-08 11:33:36.198
AE0672 -------- 63-8014 K35R AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB] --- 2012-05-08 19:53:29.438
AE07D0 RCH875 89-1192 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-08 05:02:28.291
AE07D1 -------- 90-0532 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-05-08 16:34:23.719
AE07F6 RHINO50 97-0044 C17 AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] --- 2012-05-08 19:06:48.283
AE08BE RCH029 00-0184 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-05-08 09:10:15.556
AE093C -------- 00-1053 C560 US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW] --- 2012-05-08 15:51:49.531
AE10B7 RCH104 01-0188 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-08 21:46:39.899
AE1197 E33114 03-3114 C17 MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN] --- 2012-05-08 18:25:03.324
AE11D9 SNTRY60H 75-0559 E3TF USAF | 552ACW [KTIK] --- 2012-05-08 10:31:40.887
AE1239 HUNT31 04-4129 C17 USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI] --- 2012-05-08 15:16:17.779
AE1493 PEACH99 96-0043 B703 GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] --- 2012-05-08 08:48:05.175
AE189C SPAR15 05-0932 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-08 09:19:11.376
AE29D2 -------- 08-6205 ??? C30J --- --- 2012-05-08 11:34:37.311
B648D9 -------- 09-0540 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-08 19:22:13.020
E47EF6 RYN7638 N637TW B763 Ryan Intl Airlines --- 2012-05-08 00:24:17.707

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 8 May 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

31FF13 I-PDVD --- 2012-05-08 14:40:51 IPDVD Italy --- 5577 5475
A0616B N12310 AZAZ0909 2012-05-08 16:09:04 C-27A United States UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE
A0B1CF N144CS --- 2012-05-08 16:43:27 P3B United States UNITED STATES CUSTOMS SERVICE
A0C462 N149CS 11111111 2012-05-08 12:50:37 P3B United States UNITED STATES CUSTOMS SERVICE 1675 17975
A2191E N234U N234U 2012-05-08 21:36:18 206H United States US DOJ | DEA
A385CA N326ND --- 2012-05-08 13:34:17 PA-44-180 United States ---
A60F3C N49RF --- 2012-05-08 16:48:02 G-IV United States --- 0000 24200
A77AE7 N581PC --- 2012-05-08 20:24:01 PC-12/45 United States USAF | 1SOW [KHRT]
AC86A3 N906NA --- 2012-05-08 17:58:39 T-38N United States NASA 0757 12600
ADFE1C 1716 --- 2012-05-08 23:42:59 HC-130H United States USCG | CGAS Elizabeth City [KECG] 7445 7100
ADFE1E 1718 --- 2012-05-08 14:39:12 HC-130H United States USCG | CGAS Sacramento [KMCC] 3752 1200
AE0116 97-5305 TEAL38 2012-05-08 15:57:32 WC-130J United States AFRC | 403AW | 53WRS [KBIX]
AE0154 63-8045 PIRAT22 2012-05-08 14:10:14 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
AE01BC 84-0130 SPAR451 2012-05-08 15:51:25 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 311AS [KCOS]
AE0241 63-8021 BOLT06 2012-05-08 16:22:27 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AE037E 63-8887 BOLT21 2012-05-08 13:57:33 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
AE046D 162172 --- 2012-05-08 19:59:10 C-2A United States USN | VRC-30 [KNZY]
AE06E4 NAS Chambers 53403344 2012-05-08 14:42:59 UC-12F United States USNAVY 3765 6975
AE093A 00-1051 PAT102 2012-05-08 16:51:58 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE11D9 75-0559 SNTRY60H 2012-05-08 19:13:07 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK] 0000 32000
AE11FA 02-0203 BOXER45 2012-05-08 14:09:35 C-40C United States DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW] 1325 34000
AE1461 06-6163 RCH780 2012-05-08 22:00:48 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] 3055 34500
AE14F4 64-14855 ALLIED 1 2012-05-08 23:45:13 HC-130P United States AFRC | 920RQW | 39RQS [KCOF]
AE27A6 84-0047 --- 2012-05-08 13:44:32 E-9A United States 82ndATRS
AE4EB2 168428 LL428 2012-05-08 11:59:54 P-8A United States VP-30

VFA 211 Holds Aerial Change of Command

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- The Checkmates of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 held an airborne change of command ceremony in the skies over deployed aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) May 7.

Cmdr. John Bixby relieved Cmdr. James A. McCall as commanding officer (CO), as both flew in F/A-18F Super Hornets, assigned to VFA-211. They read their orders, with McCall giving the final flight lead to Bixby as they flew over Enterprise.

"Now it's just a matter of taking the baton from Cmdr. McCall and keeping the squadron going down the right path," said Bixby. "As one man, I cannot change how well the squadron performs, it's a matter of all 250 of our people doing what they do, and have been doing, to get the job done."

This deployment will be the final deployment for any squadron embarked aboard Enterprise, as the ship is scheduled to be decommissioned following its return to homeport in Norfolk, Va., making this the last in-flight change of command the Checkmates will have over Enterprise.

"I'm an aviator, so anything we can do in a jet is better than something we can do on the ground, and I'm all for that," said Bixby.

When asked his departing thoughts, McCall stated that leaving while his squadron was still flying combat missions was the best way he could think to depart.

"As for the Checkmates, it has been the greatest honor of my career to lead this team. It's made up of a tremendous group of Sailors who are dedicated to their craft and our country," said McCall. "I know Americans can sleep safely at night with this team out here doing what we're doing today."

Shortly after the ceremony, McCall departed Enterprise to report to his new command, Joint Theater Air and MSL DEF ORG.

With the completion of the change of command, VFA-211 pilots will continue to fly combat missions in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Phoenix Express 2012 Begins in Souda Bay

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Caitlin Conroy, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

SOUDA BAY, Crete (NNS) -- Phoenix Express 2012 (PE12), a multi-national exercise between Southern European, North African and U.S. naval forces, officially kicked off at the NATO Maritime Interdiction Operation Training Center (NMIOTC) in Souda Bay, May 7.

Phoenix Express is an at-sea maritime exercise designed to improve cooperation among participating nations to help increase maritime safety and security in the Mediterranean Sea.

"This is the seventh year for Phoenix Express, and it is one of four African regional ´Express´ series exercises that are designed to test skills obtained from participating in bilateral and Africa Partnership Station (APS) training in a regional maritime exercise," said Lt. Chase Ackerman, PE12 exercise planner. "One of the goals of PE12 is to build communication between North African and European partners so that there is a stronger united force in the Mediterranean Sea. At the same time, the training provided will help enhance maritime security."

Exercise events during PE12 will be held in-port at the NMITOC and aboard the Hellenic navy training ship Aris, while the at-sea training will be conducted aboard various ships. During the in-port portion of training the focus will be on medical and maritime interdiction operations (MIO) training at NMIOTC, while combined maritime forces located pier-side will conduct workshops in helicopter operations and safety, damage control and firefighting, deck seamanship, navigation, search and rescue (SAR), small boat operations and a leadership course. After in-port training is complete, the at-sea portion of PE12 will commence in the Mediterranean Sea.

At sea, ships and their Sailors will focus on maritime domain awareness (MDA) using the Automatic Identification System (AIS), and include interaction between forces afloat and the combined maritime operations center (CMOC) ashore. Combined maritime forces will also execute a series of scenarios exercising force protection measures, MIO - to include visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) and helicopter VBSS (HVBSS) - SAR, replenishment at sea and helicopter operations.

"Our purpose in the NMIOTC, besides hosting the exercise, is to provide all the necessary training, and with U.S. assistance, we can help make the command boarding teams better for their maritime interdiction operations," said Hellenic air force Lt. Col. Lampinos Lamprinakis, deputy education training director for the NMIOTC. "I believe we have had a smooth start to everything and I see that everyone is ready and willing to work together."

Participating and observing countries in PE12 include Algeria, Canada, Croatia, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Libya, Malta, Morocco, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey and the United States.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 8 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

ADFF96 68-8198 --- 2012-05-08 21:08:16 T-38C United States 50thFTS
A979B3 N71 --- 2012-05-08 18:44:59 King Air 300 United States FAA Flight Check
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH99 2012-05-08 18:21:47 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE06E4 NAS Chambers 53403344 2012-05-08 17:57:00 UC-12F United States USNAVY 0703 5700
AE093D 01-0301 --- 2012-05-08 17:51:58 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]
AE2FAA 08-8198 PALM37 2012-05-08 17:25:01 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI] 3226 0
AE0428 62-3511 TAZZ72 2012-05-08 17:20:45 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE0428 62-3511 TAZZ72 2012-05-08 16:34:29 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE29D2 08-6205 ??? --- 2012-05-08 16:24:47 MC-130J United States --- 5224 24000
4D03C2 LX-N90444 --- 2012-05-08 16:13:26 E-3A Luxembourg NAEWandCF
AE047F 59-1509 --- 2012-05-08 15:49:11 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE047F 59-1509 SODA81 2012-05-08 15:49:11 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
ADFC6C 90-0410 --- 2012-05-08 14:58:10 T-1A United States USAF | 71FTW | 32FTS [KEND] 6055 9575
AE189C 05-0932 SPAR15 2012-05-08 14:40:31 C-40C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH99 2012-05-08 13:36:15 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE047F 59-1509 --- 2012-05-08 13:12:37 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE047F 59-1509 SODA81 2012-05-08 13:12:37 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE07D0 89-1192 RCH875 2012-05-08 10:21:32 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
E47EF6 N637TW RYN7638 2012-05-08 05:55:31 Boeing 767-33AER United States Ryan Intl Airlines --- 25150

RIMPAC to begin June 29

By Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Twenty-two nations, 42 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise scheduled June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands.

The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Hosted by U.S. Pacific Fleet, and led by Vice Adm. Gerald Beaman, commander of the U.S. Third Fleet (C3F), RIMPAC 2012 marks the first time non-U.S. officers will command components of the combined task force during the exercise. Commodore Stuart Mayer of the Royal Australian Navy will command the Maritime Component and Brig. Gen. Michael Hood of the Royal Canadian Air Force will command the Air Component. Other key leaders of the multinational force include Royal Canadian Navy Rear Adm. Ron Lloyd, deputy commander of the Combined Task Force (CTF), and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Rear Adm. Fumiyuki Kitagawa, vice commander of the CTF.

The theme of RIMPAC 2012 is "Capable, Adaptive, Partners." The participating nations and forces will exercise a wide range of capabilities and demonstrate the inherent flexibility of maritime forces. These capabilities range from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control and complex warfighting. The relevant, realistic training syllabus includes amphibious operations; gunnery, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises as well as counter-piracy, mine clearance operations, explosive ordnance disposal and diving and salvage operations.

RIMPAC 2012 will feature the first demonstration of a U.S. Navy "Great Green Fleet," during which U.S. surface combatants and carrier-based aircraft will test, evaluate and demonstrate the cross-platform utility and functionality of biofuels. This demonstration will also incorporate prototype energy efficiency initiatives such as solid state lighting, on-line gas turbine waterwash and energy management tools.

This year's exercise includes units or personnel from Australia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga, the United Kingdom and the United States.

First refueling unit to reach 25,000 missions in single AOR

by Senior Airman Lynsie Nichols, 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

TRANSIT CENTER AT MANAS, Kyrgyzstan (AFNS) -- Members of the 22nd Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron here reached a milestone of 25,000 air refueling missions May 4.

During the past year, 22nd EARS sortie support has grown 23 percent, allowing them to quickly eclipse the 25,000th mission mark.

"Like their squadron mascot, the mule, the 22nd EARS has stubbornly labored to safely and efficiently fuel the fight despite harsh winter and other operations-related challenges," said Col. Brian Newberry, the 376th Expeditionary Operations Group commander.

The 22nd EARS provides one-third of the aerial refueling for coalition aircraft supporting international efforts in Afghanistan.

Capt. Tanya Dubiel, a 22nd EARS pilot, said she was honored to fly the 25,000th mission.

"I think it's a really proud day for our unit; we've accomplished a lot," Dubiel said. "(This crew was) specifically chosen (for this mission), and I think it says a lot about our crew. We're young, but highly capable of performing the mission and doing it well."

Although the day was like any other, Dubiel said she enjoys the interaction with the receiving aircraft.

"Engaging with our receivers and knowing the fuel we give them helps the troops on the ground, is a very special part of the job," she said. "It makes me feel really good about what I do."

Besides accomplishing their 25,000th mission, 22nd EARS members held recently a change-of-command ceremony. Lt. Col. Peter Tschohl handed his role as commander over to Lt. Col. Russell Davis May 3.

Throughout his command, Tschohl and his unit have contributed to 4,700 missions.

"I'm humbled to be part of such an awesome team, and it's amazing to be part of the history that is taking place here," Tschohl said. "The men and women of the 22nd EARS have worked non-stop throughout the past 10 years to deliver fuel to our coalition receivers so they can protect and support our coalition ground troops and the Afghan civilians."

Davis said he feels honored and privileged to take command during this milestone and has high standards set for the 22nd EARS reputation.

"I think this is an incredible milestone, and it says something about the endurance, dedication and the hard work of everybody involved throughout the last 10 years," he said. "My number one goal is to maintain the relationship the squadron has throughout the tanker community. I want to make sure that this is still the desired place to come that it always has been."

The 22nd EARS has been a unit here since 2002 and is the only KC-135 Stratotanker unit to reach 25,000 missions dedicated to one region.

"(The mission of the 22nd EARS) extends the fight allowing us to give great top cover for the military members that are on the ground in Afghanistan," Davis said. "It allows them to be able to call in air power on a moment's notice with insurance that it's going to be there to provide the support that they need."

USS Underwood Transits Panama Canal

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stuart Phillips, Southern Seas 2012 Public Affairs

USS UNDERWOOD, Panama Canal (NNS) -- The Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36) transited the Panama Canal in support of Southern Seas 2012, May 6.

The transit began early Saturday evening and spilled over into the early hours of Sunday morning.

"The transit normally takes 10-12 hours to complete," said Quartermaster 3rd Class Joshua Hughes, a native of Detroit, who steered the ship as the master helmsman for part of the transit. "It's a long transit and the times will always vary depending on traffic because there are a variety of vessels that use the canal. Last night's transit moved fairly quickly. Traffic was at a minimum so we were able to get through it in a timely manner."

Hughes has navigated the canal five times, but the novelty has yet to fade.

"If you've done it once, if you've done it a thousand times, it feels the same," said Hughes. "It's the excitement. It's the focus that is required in order to safely navigate a passage like this. Not a lot of people get to do this and I am truly pleased to say I've been able to do it at least once, let alone multiple times, and I hope to do it again."

The meticulous passage of the ship is possible only with the efforts of all crew members aboard the ship.

"Teamwork was essential to our transit, especially due to the length of our transit," said Command Master Chief Michael Bates. "The transit lasted over 11 hours. We didn't pull in until 2 a.m. The ship did a great job of relieving people on time and putting the right people on station."

Transiting the canal is only the beginning for the crew of Underwood as they prepare for UNITAS Pacific, an annual multinational maritime exercise, scheduled to begin May 14.

"The success of this event really set the tone for the deployment in terms of teamwork getting us through an evolution like that," said Bates. "The evolution was pretty flawless. I think that will set us up for success over the next six months."

After completing the transit, the crew of Underwood took on supplies and refueled the ship at Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal.

Underwood is embarked on a six-month deployment to Central and South America and the Caribbean Sea in support of Southern Seas 2012 to engage in multinational naval exercises with partner nations.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) supports U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) Completes Acceptance Trials

MARINETTE, Wis. (NNS) -- The future USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) successfully completed acceptance trials May 4, testing the ship's major systems and equipment in port and underway in Lake Michigan.

Acceptance trials are the last significant milestone before delivery of the ship to the Navy. The ship was presented to the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) with high levels of completion.

"Fort Worth performed extremely well during its trials," said LCS Program Manager Capt. John Neagley. "The ship's level of completion coupled with Marinette Marine's excellent craftsmanship resulted in relatively few material deficiencies."

During the four-day trial, the Navy conducted comprehensive tests intended to demonstrate the performance of the propulsion plant, ship handling and auxiliary systems. This improved performance in comparison to the first ship of the class is a result of design stability, facility improvements and production efficiencies by the shipbuilder.

Fort Worth will join her sister ships USS Freedom and USS Independence, which have already been commissioned, when she is commissioned September 22, in Galveston, Texas. In addition, Milwaukee (LCS 5) is under construction at the Marinette Marine Corp. shipyard, and Coronado (LCS 4) and Jackson (LCS 6) are under construction at the Austal USA shipyard in Mobile, Ala.

LCS is a new breed of U.S. Navy warship, capable of open-ocean operation but optimized for littoral, or coastal, missions.

The Navy continues to remain committed to a 55 ship LCS program and is leveraging competition, fixed-price contracting and serial production to reduce construction duration and costs. In addition, the Navy is committed to ensuring that prior to the start of fabrication, the ship design is mature and the requirements are well understood.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 7 May 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

AE4EB2 168428 LL428 2012-05-07 23:34:22 P-8A United States VP-30 --- 12075
AE013C 60-0344 BOLT96 2012-05-07 23:17:22 KC-135T United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
AE037E 63-8887 PIRAT13 2012-05-07 23:17:12 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
31FF13 I-PDVD --- 2012-05-07 21:34:41 IPDVD Italy --- 0000 4875
AE1191 03-0016 --- 2012-05-07 19:03:37 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
ADFEDA 86-0084 PAT865 2012-05-07 19:00:53 C-12U United States VA ARNG | OSACOM DET-26 [KRIC] 6251 21975
AE04AC 99-0103 --- 2012-05-07 18:29:52 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE] 0000 40000
AE012E (73-1683)/97-01 --- 2012-05-07 18:13:04 C-9C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]
AE1491 95-0121 KOMODO4 2012-05-07 17:42:52 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE037E 63-8887 PIRAT11 2012-05-07 16:45:08 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
AE4EB2 168428 LL428 2012-05-07 16:42:02 P-8A United States VP-30
ADFED4 85-1266 00000000 2012-05-07 16:41:34 C-12U United States VA ARNG | OSACOM VA RFC [KDAA] 1355 19025
AE037E 63-8887 PIRAT11 2012-05-07 16:33:19 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 927ARW
B648D9 09-0540 SPAR17 2012-05-07 16:28:03 C-40C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 7 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE11D9 75-0559 --- 2012-05-07 20:47:06 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE0155 62-3507 CODY01 2012-05-07 20:39:57 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] 7303 36000
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH99 2012-05-07 19:59:18 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE02FF 78-0809 PITT 09 2012-05-07 19:40:33 C-130H United States AFRC | 911AW | 758AS [KPIT]
AE11D9 75-0559 --- 2012-05-07 19:14:50 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE49C2 09-9206 RCH9206 2012-05-07 18:57:20 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 0775 36000
ADFE95 95-0096 --- 2012-05-07 18:26:31 C-12R+ United States USARMY
AE04AA 99-0101 --- 2012-05-07 18:13:02 UC-35a1 United States USARC | C/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KGRK]
AE07D4 90-0535 RHINO90 2012-05-07 17:42:48 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] 6623 35000
AE02F4 86-0411 DEUCE43 2012-05-07 17:19:17 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
AE0470 57-1428 --- 2012-05-07 16:54:56 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH99 2012-05-07 16:49:16 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0596 59-1460 STEEL64 2012-05-07 16:30:55 KC-135T United States PA ANG | 171ARW [KPIT] 7271 27100
00000A Various --- 2012-05-07 15:57:00 Various Various --- 7172 25050
AE0596 59-1460 STEEL64 2012-05-07 15:55:12 KC-135T United States PA ANG | 171ARW [KPIT] 7271 27100
AE0596 59-1460 STEEL64 2012-05-07 15:34:48 KC-135T United States PA ANG | 171ARW [KPIT] 7271 27100
AE0361 59-1444 SLUFF91 2012-05-07 15:32:29 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK] 2036 0
AE02E2 81-0627 ROUGE31 2012-05-07 14:48:32 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
ADFD86 94-0259 --- 2012-05-07 14:43:50 C-26D United States Det4/DC-ArNG
AE10BE 01-0195 --- 2012-05-07 14:30:21 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE093D 01-0301 --- 2012-05-07 13:55:54 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]
AE1198 03-3115 E33115 2012-05-07 00:32:10 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]6017 34000

Secretary of The Navy Announces DDG 116 to be Named Thomas Hudner

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced today the next Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer (DDG) will be named the USS Thomas Hudner.

Thomas J. Hudner Jr., a naval aviator who retired as a captain, received the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman for displaying uncommon valor during an attack on his wingman, the first African American naval aviator to fly in combat, Ensign Jesse L. Brown. During the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War, anti-aircraft fire hit Brown's aircraft, damaging a fuel line and causing him to crash. After it became clear Brown was seriously injured and unable to free himself Hudner proceeded to purposefully crash his own aircraft to join Brown and provide aid. Hudner injured his own back during his crash landing, but he stayed with Brown until a rescue helicopter arrived. Hudner and the rescue pilot worked in the sub-zero, snow-laden area in an unsuccessful attempt to free Brown from the smoking wreckage.

Hudner is the last living Navy recipient of the Medal of Honor from the Korean War.

After receiving recognition for his heroism, Hudner remained on active duty, completing an additional 22 years of naval service during which his accomplishments include flying 27 combat missions in the Korean War and serving as the executive officer aboard the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War.

"Thomas Hudner exemplifies the core values of honor, courage and commitment the Navy holds dear," said Mabus. "Naming the Navy's next DDG for him will ensure his legacy will be known, honored and emulated by future generations of sailors and Marines who serve and all who come in contact with this ship."

The Arleigh Burke class destroyer will be able to conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. It will be capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and will contain a myriad of offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare in keeping with the Navy's ability to execute the Department of Defense's defense strategy.

Ohio National Guard training exercise tests Guard members, local and state agencies

Soldiers of the Ohio National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Enhanced Response Force Package search for role players in the role of casualties amongst wreckage during a training exercise at Camp Sherman Joint Training Center, Ohio, May 5, 2012. The training exercise included Ohio National Guard members as well as personnel from a variety of local, state and federal emergency responders. (Ohio National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Kresge)

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Ross County public safety agencies and the Ohio National Guard conducted a multi-jurisdictional exercise recently at Camp Sherman Joint Training Center.

Training for participants focused on Camp Sherman's structural collapse simulator, a pile of concrete, rubble, old cars, and a school bus replicating what an explosion might do to an industrial facility. The training scenario featured emergency personnel responding to a simulated explosion at a local paper mill, with the simulator providing a realistic training experience.

Responding first to the structural collapse the Chillicothe Fire Department determined the simulated explosion that caused the collapse in the training scenario released potentially hazardous chemicals into the air.

"We were overwhelmed by the initial incident," said Jeff Creed fire chief for Chillicothe, and the incident commander at the training exercise. "We called in different support from the county and the Ohio National Guard.”
Creed said the Ohio Guard integrated easily into the incident response operations.

"We did a hand-off for some of the responsibilities but maintained (overall) control,” he said. “Our staff has been working hand in hand with theirs. It's worked out real well."

One of the key participants from the Ohio Guard was the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Enhanced Response Force Package (CERFP), a 186-person unit which rapidly deploys to perform search and extraction, mass patient decontamination, medical triage and patient stabilization before transportation to a local hospital or medical treatment facility.

"We understand the mission that we are here to save lives and this exercise gives us an opportunity to work with our civilian counterparts to close gaps," said Lt. Col. David Mason Jr. CERFP commander

The exercise tested multiple agencies and Ohio Guard units, teaching valuable lessons for future exercises or a real incident.

"It's been a great learning experience," said Chillicothe Fire Department Capt. Joe Minney. "It’s nice to know the resources are available for a real incident and training."

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Smith, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

USS JASON DUNHAM, At Sea (NNS) -- Members of the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) conducted a simulated boarding of training support vessel Prevail (TSV 1), May 6.

The boarding exercise was conducted as a part of the Carrier Strike Group Eight composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) to provide hands-on training to VBSS team members before Jason Dunham's upcoming deployment.

"When you do one of these exercises, you never know what to expect," said VBSS team member, Ensign Ryan Kelly. "You have to rely on your training and the other team members, and that is exactly how it is in a real-world situation."

As part of the exercise, the team members boarded Prevail after Jason Dunham established bridge-to-bridge communications and determined Prevail qualified as a vessel of interest.

Once aboard Prevail, team members encountered a crew that was "uncooperative" and discovered contraband, including drugs and weapons.

"At that point, we knew we were going to have to detain the vessel," said team member, Quartermaster 2nd Class David Rodriguez. "We phoned back to Jason Dunham and had them send over the ship-control team."

A ship-control team takes control of detained vessels and consists of damage control, deck and engineering personnel fully capable of controlling and managing any situation a vessel might encounter while transiting to the nearest port.

"We were fully prepared to take control and stay on the ship for 24-48 hours," said ship-control team member, Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Ronald Virgin.

After the ship-control team demonstrated their ability to navigate and control the ship both teams were called together for debriefing.

"We had a successful boarding and learned a lot during the exercise," said Kelly. "We just want to keep this momentum going into our deployment. We can't know what we might see out there, but I think we all realize we can trust each other during a boarding. That's all you can really ask."

Jason Dunham is a part of Carrier Strike Group Eight, which is underway conducting a COMPTUEX in the Atlantic Ocean.

Enterprise, CVW-1 Support Operation Enduring Freedom

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Smith, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 began flying combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), May 1.

Through these missions, the Navy and Marine Corps squadrons aboard Enterprise are providing direct support to coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan.

The missions include close-air support, electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and airborne command and control.

In Afghanistan, these missions degrade terrorist activities, diminish Taliban influence and improve security, which leads to stability and economic prosperity.

CVW-1 spent months preparing for these missions, and is ready to join coalition forces in the region.

Enterprise joins the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the region. Thus far, Abraham Lincoln has flown more than 1,400 sorties, totaling more than 8,700 flight hours in support of coalition efforts in Afghanistan, according to the Lincoln's Public Affairs Office.

Over the course of May 1, their first day supporting OEF, CVW-1 aircraft flew 29 sorties.

According to Capt. Jeffrey Trent, commander, CVW-1, the number of sorties flown on the first day will be the standard throughout much of the time CVW-1 is supporting OEF.

"That will be a very standard number," said Trent. "This is a marathon. We're going to be here for a number of months, and we're in it for the long haul, and getting jets on and off the deck is no easy task."

Accomplishing this task falls on the shoulders of the Sailors and Marines working aboard Enterprise every day.

"It's not just the airplanes flying. It's the Sailors and Marines working on the flight deck; it's the men and women working in the engineering plant, and those working everywhere in between, that support this mission," said Trent.

Enterprise should fly approximately 170 OEF sorties per week.

Commander U.S. 5th Fleet reported U.S. Navy aircraft have averaged about 5,000 close-air support missions per year in support of OEF, since 2009. As they did in 2011, Enterprise and CVW-1 will directly contribute to that total in 2012. During last year's deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Enterprise and CVW-1 supported OEF with a total of 1,450 combat sorties.

"During this deployment we get to capitalize on all the experience gained last year," said Trent. "However, training is happening every flight and every event improves overall readiness."

Enterprise and CVW-1 will not be the only Navy assets supporting operations in Afghanistan during the carrier's final deployment. Sailors serve throughout all 34 Afghan provinces and in the six Navy-led Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs), promoting governance, enhancing security and aiding in reconstruction efforts.

CVW-1 is comprised of the "Red Rippers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, the "Checkmates" of VFA 211, the "Knighthawks" of VFA 136, the "Thunderbolts" of Marine Attack Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 251, the "Rooks" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137, the "Screwtops" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123, and the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 11.

Enterprise is deployed on its 22nd and final deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

Makin Island, Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Groups Turnover Duties

USS MAKIN ISLAND, Gulf of Aden (NNS) -- The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) were relieved of their duties in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) by the Iwo Jima ARG and the 24th MEU, May 5.

The Makin Island ARG deployed Nov. 14, 2011 and conducted maritime security operations, theater security cooperation engagements, and multiple bilateral military exercises with regional partners within the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.

"I could not be more pleased with the hard work and dedication from every Sailor and Marine," said U.S. Navy Capt. Donald R. Cuddington, commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) Five. "Each individual's outstanding professionalism and dedication to their training during our pre-deployment phase and through this deployment contributed greatly and was the key to the overall success of the Makin Island ARG and 11th MEU team."

Following the turnover, Makin Island ARG will depart the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR and return to their homeport of San Diego.

"As I look back, every ship had some challenges either before or during this deployment; however, each ship met every challenge or every mission with great commitment and determination to succeed," said Cuddington. "I would say the key to our success was, that the blue-green team always focused on the mission first. It was never a blue mission or a green mission. It was our mission."

The Makin Island ARG is comprised of PHIBRON Five, with detachments from Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 11, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, Beach Master Unit (BMU) 1, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1 and ACU 5.

The ships that make up the Makin Island ARG are San Diego-based amphibious assault ship Makin Island, amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52).

The 11th MEU major subordinate elements consist of Battalion Landing Team 3/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (VMM) 268 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 11.

"The 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit has completed every task and exceeded expectations in supporting both U.S. Central Command and U.S. Navy Forces Central Command as a forward deployed Marine air-ground task force," said Col. Michael Hudson, 11th MEU's commanding officer. "The Marines and Sailors have continuously demonstrated the flexibility and adaptability of the Navy and Marine Corps team as they hit every pitch. This journey started over a year ago, during pre-deployment training and we leave here now proud of what we have accomplished.

"As we begin our voyage home to our friends and families in Southern California, we know that the 24th MEU, who is relieving us, is well led, trained and ready to take the next watch as America's forward deployed force," Hudson added.

The Iwo Jima ARG includes PHIBRON Eight, with detachments from TACRON 21, FST 4, HSC 22, BMU 2, ACU 2 and ACU 4. ARG ships include Norfolk-based amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story-based amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

This is the maiden deployment for USS New York (LPD 21), built with seven-and-a-half tons of steel from the World Trade Center, symbolizing sacrifice while having the watch being forward deployed.

"We've been working hard to prepare for our new duties in our new theatre, as we recently completed exercise African Lion off the coast of Morocco shortly after departing for deployment, and we are looking forward to getting work done in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR," said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark H. Scovill, commodore, PHIBRON Eight.

Embarked with the Iwo Jima ARG is the 24th MEU, a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force, comprised of major subordinate elements: Battalion Landing Team 1/2, VMM-261 (Reinforced) and CLB-24.

"The 24th MEU is manned, trained, equipped and ready to serve as U.S. 5th Fleet's forward deployed crisis response force," said Col. Frank Donovan, commanding officer, 24th MEU. "Teamed with our great Navy partners aboard the amphibious ships of PHIBRON Eight, we make a truly flexible, adaptable, decisive, and when required, lethal Navy and Marine Corps expeditionary force. We stand ready to take over for 11th MEU/PHIBRON Five and continue the superior work they have done across the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR. We wish them fair winds and following seas as they begin their transit home."

The Iwo Jima and embarked 24th MEU will provide support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 5-6 May 2012 - Bowling Green KY

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor DavidP in Bowling Green, KY. Thanks David.

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-05-05
Military Hex Codes only

A0600A -------- A7-AAF A310 --- --- 2012-05-05 12:43:16.792
A28F77 -------- N264SP BE20 INDIANA DEPT OF ADMINISTRATION --- 2012-05-05 10:57:45.214
A7C77E -------- N600CN LJ60 CHICKASAW NATION --- 2012-05-05 19:06:59.232
ADFDBF -------- 93-7312 C130 IL ANG | 182AW | 169AS [KPIA] --- 2012-05-05 18:23:26.266
ADFEB6 -------- 75-0125 B742 USAF | 55WG | 1ACCS [KOFF] --- 2012-05-05 17:45:48.505
ADFED0 PAT255 85-1262 BE20 USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG) --- 2012-05-05 18:32:46.703
ADFEEC CNV9392 160048 DC93 USNR | VR-52 [KWRI] --- 2012-05-05 15:37:50.234
AE0111 E65300 96-5300 C30J AFRC | 403AW | 53WRS [KBIX] --- 2012-05-05 20:07:16.998
AE0155 CODY01 62-3507 K35R USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] --- 2012-05-05 14:01:00.880
AE0317 RCH 279 74-1689 C130 USAF | 317AG [KDYS] --- 2012-05-05 15:26:59.621
AE0471 SODA50 57-1451 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-05 11:55:54.398
AE0474 RCH5799 57-2599 K35R AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB] --- 2012-05-05 14:01:22.388
AE047A DIXIE76 58-0073 K35R AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM] --- 2012-05-05 16:50:36.781
AE087F SPAR32 01-0029 GLF5 USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 2012-05-05 14:13:24.816
AE1251 -------- 165835 B737 USNR | VR-57 [KNZY] --- 2012-05-05 15:55:47.265
AE1471 RCH710 07-7179 C17 USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] --- 2012-05-05 15:09:20.240
AE29D2 -------- 08-6205 ??? C30J --- --- 2012-05-05 11:37:43.666
AE4A60 CNV4125 166696 B737 USNR | VR-58 [KNIP] --- 2012-05-05 20:10:46.842

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-05-06
Military Hex Codes only

AAEC74 -------- 10-0256 BE20 US Army | B/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KFTK] --- 2012-05-06 12:14:36.665
ADFDBF TORCH88 93-7312 C130 IL ANG | 182AW | 169AS [KPIA] --- 2012-05-06 22:54:00.669
ADFED0 PAT255 85-1262 BE20 USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG) --- 2012-05-06 08:52:27.335
ADFED0 PAT263 85-1262 BE20 USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG) --- 2012-05-06 08:52:27.335
ADFED0 PAT721 85-1262 BE20 USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG) --- 2012-05-06 08:52:27.335
AE013D -------- 64-14839 K35R IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-06 14:53:11.921
AE0155 CODY01 62-3507 K35R USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] --- 2012-05-06 18:52:54.944
AE0247 BATON91 96-8153 C30J PA ANG | 193SOW | 193SOS [KMDT] --- 2012-05-06 11:29:22.702
AE03F5 -------- 84-0167 BE20 OSACOM/PAT --- 2012-05-06 11:48:06.626
AE0415 GOTO FMS 164388 E6 USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] --- 2012-05-06 09:59:47.365
AE0423 SODA81 59-1505 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-05-06 14:05:00.548
AE04A3 MASH61 62-3518 K35R AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS] --- 2012-05-06 12:11:24.239
AE05E1 FUZZY46 87-9285 C130 AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG] --- 2012-05-06 11:50:48.828
AE07D6 RCH2292 92-3292 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-06 17:04:43.738
AE07E0 RCH616T 94-0066 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-05-06 10:49:15.289
AE07E4 RCH4070 94-0070 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-05-06 17:27:04.953
AE0806 -------- 99-0060 C17 AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] --- 2012-05-06 11:14:44.092
AE08A7 -------- 00-3586 TEX2 USAF | 14FTW | 41FTS [KCBM] --- 2012-05-06 13:24:09.986
AE1198 E33115 03-3115 C17 MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN] --- 2012-05-06 19:39:53.843
AE1251 -------- 165835 B737 USNR | VR-57 [KNZY] --- 2012-05-06 09:37:58.365
AE128F RCH 1017 85-0011 C130 USAF --- 2012-05-06 16:14:25.590
AE14AA -------- 160854 BE9L USN | TW-4 | VT-31 [KNGP] --- 2012-05-06 15:47:09.880
AE189C -------- 05-0932 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-06 15:58:53.389
AE1E7C -------- 166030 TEX2 --- --- 2012-05-06 12:28:09.502
AE4AE6 VENUS95 09-0015 B752 USAF | 89AW | 1AS [KADW] --- 2012-05-06 15:24:34.068
B648D9 -------- 09-0540 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-05-06 12:10:32.022

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 6 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE07E4 94-0070 RCH4070 2012-05-06 22:12:47 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE07D6 92-3292 RCH2292 2012-05-06 21:54:38 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]6232 34000
AE128F 85-0011 RCH 1017 2012-05-06 21:15:46 MC-130H United States USAF3401 20100
4D03C2 LX-N90444 NATO11 2012-05-06 18:02:17 E-3A Luxembourg NAEWandCF2537 21500
AE02EB 85-1362 ROPER 62 2012-05-06 17:49:08 C-130H United States TX ANG | 136AW | 181AS [KFWH]5732 22100
AE0806 99-0060 RHINO90 2012-05-06 16:03:49 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]
AE0423 59-1505 SODA81 2012-05-06 14:25:32 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
E47EF6 N637TW RYN7085 2012-05-06 10:20:00 Boeing 767-33AER United States Ryan Intl Airlines
AE4A60 166696 CNV4125 2012-05-06 01:35:15 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP]

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 6 May 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

4D03C2 LX-N90444 NATO11 2012-05-06 14:09:35 E-3A Luxembourg NAEWandCF
A0CE66 N151FC --- 2012-05-06 17:19:26 Cessna 182T United States DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES
A1FCA6 N227SV --- 2012-05-06 16:01:05 GLF4 United States Assembly Point Aviation/US Gov 0000 26450
A6DCE9 N541PA --- 2012-05-06 17:47:00 LJ-35 United States PhoenixAirGroup
AA606D N768NA NAO985 2012-05-06 23:18:40 Boeing 767-36N United States North American Airlines 3612 13000
AE010F 94-1569 BOXER026 2012-05-06 13:57:45 C-38A United States DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW]
AE03DA 165315 --- 2012-05-06 15:52:54 KC-130T United States USMCR | VMGR-452 [KSWF]
AE03EB 165314 CNV3726 2012-05-06 13:17:28 C-130T United States USNR | VR-62 [KNIP] 7371 19900
AE08B2 165958 --- 2012-05-06 17:52:06 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA] 4361 16975
AE08B5 165960 ??? --- 2012-05-06 16:44:27 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE08B7 165962 --- 2012-05-06 15:57:44 T-6A United States ---
AE08BD 165968 --- 2012-05-06 16:01:52 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE10BF 01-0196 RCH899 2012-05-06 23:34:20 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE10D5 165519 --- 2012-05-06 17:38:05 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE10D9 165523 --- 2012-05-06 17:32:07 T-39N United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE1140 165974 --- 2012-05-06 14:42:48 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE1146 165980 --- 2012-05-06 18:19:40 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE1149 165983 --- 2012-05-06 16:29:15 T-6A United States USN | TW-6 [KNPA]
AE12CC 66-0223 ROGUE 01 2012-05-06 20:32:08 MC-130P United States CA ANG | 129RQW | 130RQS [KNUQ] 3271 24000
AE143E 05-1436 SHARK06 2012-05-06 13:06:28 C-130J-30 United States RI ANG | 143AW | 143AS [KOQU] 2642 24000
AE1524 167108 OTIS05 2012-05-06 10:29:27 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX] 2626 20000

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 4-5 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

ADFEEB 160047 --- 2012-05-05 22:19:26 C-9B United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
ADFEEA 160046 LOBO 207 2012-05-05 22:03:09 C-9B United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE047A 58-0073 DIXIE76 2012-05-05 22:00:47 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE1471 07-7179 RCH710 2012-05-05 19:59:58 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE0474 57-2599 RCH5799 2012-05-05 19:32:55 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB]
AE0155 62-3507 --- 2012-05-05 19:03:56 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]

AE0411 163919 --- 2012-05-04 13:16:50 E-6B United States USN | VQ-3 [KTIK] 0522 35025
AE0411 163919 GOTO FMS 2012-05-04 13:16:50 E-6B United States USN | VQ-3 [KTIK] 0522 35025
A4F2EE N418MC GTI628 2012-05-04 07:26:21 B747-47UF United States AtlasAir --- 39000
AE1171 02-1099 RCH707 2012-05-04 04:48:43 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 0000 35000
AE031E 74-2072 GLEAN 32 2012-05-04 02:31:57 C-130H United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
AE1282 62-1863 KING21 2012-05-04 02:30:27 HC-130p United States USAF | 563RQG | 79RQS [KDMA] 0000 14800
AE1282 62-1863 KING21 2012-05-04 01:26:38 HC-130p United States USAF | 563RQG | 79RQS [KDMA] 0000 14800
A05F2F N123DN CMB548 2012-05-04 00:34:24 Boeing 767-332 United States Ryan Intl Airlines 5643 38975

Secretary of the Navy Announces LHA 7 Will Be Named USS Tripoli

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced today the selection of USS Tripoli as the name for the Navy's next large-deck amphibious assault ship (LHA 7).

The USS Tripoli will be the third ship to bear the name Tripoli. The name commemorates the capture of Derna in 1805 by a small force of U.S. Marines and approximately 370 soldiers from 11 other nationalities. The battle, later memorialized in the Marines' Hymn with the line "to the shores of Tripoli", brought about a successful conclusion to the combined operations of the First Barbary War. The first USS Tripoli, an escort carrier, fought in the battle of the Atlantic during World War II. The second, an amphibious assault ship, earned nine battle stars, a Meritorious Unit Commendation, and a Navy Unit Commendation for service in Vietnam.

"USS Tripoli and the proud heritage the name represents will be an inspiration for generations of sailors and Marines who serve aboard and those who come in contact with her, reminding all the freedoms our Navy protects are as vital today as they were centuries ago," Mabus said.

Like the future USS America (LHA 6), LHA 7 has an increased aviation capacity to include an enlarged hangar deck, realignment and expansion of the aviation maintenance facilities, a significant increase in available stowage for parts and support equipment, and increased aviation fuel capacity.

The LHA 7 will use the same gas turbine propulsion plant, zonal electrical distribution and electric auxiliary systems designed and built for the USS Makin Island, replacing the maintenance intensive steam plants of earlier ships. This unique auxiliary propulsion system is designed for fuel efficiency.

The LHA 7 will provide a flexible, multi-mission platform with capabilities that span the range of military operations -- from forward deployed crisis response to forcible entry operations. The ship also will provide forward presence and power projection as an integral part of joint, interagency and multinational maritime expeditionary forces. The ship will operate for sustained periods in transit to and operations in an amphibious objective area to include: embarking, transporting, controlling, inserting, sustaining and extracting elements of a marine air-ground task force, and supporting forces by helicopters and tilt rotors supported by Joint Strike Fighters F-35B.

Little Rock AFB members say goodbye to last C-130E

C-130E Hercules 61-2358 takes off from the flightline for the last time May 1, 2012, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. 61-2358 will be used as a static display at Edwards AFB, Calif. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Chad Chisholm)

by Staff Sgt. Jacob Barreiro, 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. (AFNS) -- Airmen gathered for a ceremony here May 1 to say goodbye to the first C-130E Hercules ever produced and the last one to be retired.

Tail No. 61-2358 will retire to Edwards AFB where it will be used as a static display after more than 50 years of service. Leaders and Airmen from three different wings and civic leaders from the local community in attendance to honor the plane prior to its final flight.

"This plane represents a milestone in the history of the C-130 and the history of the Air Force," said Col. Brian Robinson, the 19th Airlift Wing commander. "This is the most capable, tough as nails aircraft, and it's been to every remote corner of the planet, including Antarctica."

Robinson said the aircraft had a distinguished career that fittingly began here. The aircraft flew its first operational mission Sept. 24, 1957, by the mandate of President Dwight Eisenhower, to airlift 1,200 paratroopers to enforce the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. The mission was carried out successfully, the first of thousands upon thousands 2358 would be used for in its five-decade long career.

"She never rested; she did her mission to the end," Robinson said.

Fred Ross, the vice president of C-130 programs at Lockheed Martin, said the aircraft had a distinguished career, from its first flight to its twilight run to retirement.

"C-130s always carry the load," he said.

Ross said the plane's five decades in the sky is a rare sight, and that no other aircraft has been in continuous production for 57 years like the C-130.

Tail No. 2358 is the last of the C-130E models to be retired from the active duty fleet and is slated to be replaced by the newer J models. The J models are a huge leap in technology, Ross said, but will still be a Hercules in the C-130 tradition, a tradition exemplified by 2358.

"I'm proud of 2358 ... it's been involved in humanitarian airlifts all over the world and contributed numerous air drops in the lands of Afghanistan and Iraq. Most of all I'm proud it was built for (the Air Force) and served (the Air Force) well for more than 50 years."

Robinson said the retirement of 2358 was a great occasion to celebrate the history of combat airlift and to recognize the efforts of the local community.

"Today we not only recognize those who fly and maintain our aircraft, but also the local community and their leaders," he said. "Without your support these planes would not fly."

Air Force accepts final F-22 Raptor

A crowd that included Air Force leadership, senators and congressional representatives, executives and plant personnel from the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Corporation attended a ceremony dedicating the delivery of the final F-22 Raptor in Marietta, Ga., May 2, 2012. (U.S. Air Force photo/Don Peek)

by Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Gaston, 94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

MARIETTA, Ga. (AFNS) -- Senior Air Force officials attended a ceremony here May 2 commemorating the delivery of the final F-22 Raptor to the service.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz was joined by Sen. Johnny Isakson of Georgia and other industry, Air Force and civilian leaders as they were welcomed to Dobbins Air Reserve Base and the Lockheed Martin Marietta plant for the event.

The final delivery completes the Air Force's fleet of 195 F-22s. The Raptor is a key component of the Global Strike Task Force and is unmatched by any fighter aircraft due to its speed, stealth and maneuverability, according to Air Force officials.

During his remarks at the ceremony, Schwartz said the delivery represents an important element in the Air Force's overall modernization effort.

"Thank you to all of the partners in industry and government that made this occasion a reality," the general said. "I especially want to pay tribute to the line workers and engineers whose technical expertise, attention to detail and commitment to our nation's defense transformed an innovative notion into America's first 5th generation fighter aircraft."

When it was time to unveil the final F-22, the hangar doors rose and cheers from the assembled guests and workers erupted.

Robert Stevens, Lockheed Martin chairman and chief executive officer, said the very existence of the F-22 has altered the strategic landscape forever.

"It is also fair to say that, along the way, the F-22 has had a fair number of challenges and a fair number of critics," Stevens said. "But let's not fail to take note today of the number of nations, who rank among either competitors or adversaries, who are frantically trying to replicate what you have done."

The final F-22, tail number 4195, will be flown to its new unit at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson near Anchorage, Alaska.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 3 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE031D 74-2069 GLEAN 11 2012-05-03 23:52:44 C-130H United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
ADFED0 85-1262 PAT255 2012-05-03 23:20:21 C-12U United States USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG)
AE03F8 84-0154 --- 2012-05-03 21:54:46 C-12U United States LA ARNG | OSACOM Det38 [KHDC]
B648D9 09-0540 AVLON31 2012-05-03 20:59:44 C-40C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]
A68C86 99-0100 --- 2012-05-03 20:49:04 UC-35 United States US Army | 0000 41000
AE03F8 84-0154 --- 2012-05-03 19:20:30 C-12U United States LA ARNG | OSACOM Det38 [KHDC]
ADFE66 91-1235 --- 2012-05-03 18:41:55 C-130H United States KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF]
AE07F1 96-0007 RULER68 2012-05-03 17:35:18 C-17A United States 183AS
AE087E 01-0028 --- 2012-05-03 17:32:42 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
ADFE63 91-1232 DERBY 22 2012-05-03 17:22:21 C-130H United States KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF]
AE1196 03-3113 RULER31 2012-05-03 16:32:32 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AA90A0 N780BA --- 2012-05-03 15:55:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International --- 36000
AA90A0 N780BA GTI4356 2012-05-03 15:55:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International --- 36000
AE0258 98-5307 TEAL37 2012-05-03 15:55:00 WC-130J United States AFRC | 403AW | 53WRS [KBIX]
AE04E6 59-1516 SODA81 2012-05-03 15:14:30 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] 0000 15800
ADFED0 85-1262 PAT255 2012-05-03 14:38:18 C-12U United States USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG)
AE1460 06-6162 RCH6162 2012-05-03 14:19:49 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE04E6 59-1516 SODA81 2012-05-03 13:12:30 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
B648D9 09-0540 AVLON31 2012-05-03 12:23:46 C-40C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]
AA4CD0 N763BK RYN391 2012-05-03 07:56:20 B767-379ER United States Ryan Intl Airlines 2032 29675
AE1198 03-3115 RCH876 2012-05-03 01:52:32 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN] 0000 39000
AE05E3 88-4401 BREWR67 2012-05-03 01:16:15 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
AE0603 80-0324 REACH140 2012-05-03 01:06:36 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
AE1495 97-0200 PEACH98 2012-05-03 00:51:11 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] 0000 20000
ADFED0 85-1262 --- 2012-05-03 00:26:47 C-12U United States USARMY (OSACOM Det25 TNArNG)

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 2 May 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE1495 97-0200 PEACH98 2012-05-02 23:35:31 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] 0000 20000
AE1467 07-7169 RCH880 2012-05-02 23:32:34 C-17A United States USAF | 436AW | 3AS [KDOV] 0000 35000
AE0174 84-0119 COUGR73 2012-05-02 20:32:45 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV]
AE1440 05-1466 OCEAN15 2012-05-02 20:02:13 C-130J-30 United States CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD]
AE047A 58-0073 DIXIE71 2012-05-02 20:00:31 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE1165 02-0201 BOXER81 2012-05-02 19:02:57 C-40C United States DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW] 4067 39000
000001 ------ 00000000 2012-05-02 18:57:16 Various ------ ---
AE017A 84-0142 BATTL 20 2012-05-02 18:20:05 C-21A United States MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL]
AE1496 97-0201 PEACH99 2012-05-02 18:14:42 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE068B 62-3510 INDY81 2012-05-02 17:53:50 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE0223 85-0031 FORCE07 2012-05-02 17:20:07 KC-10A United States USAF | 305AMW [KWRI]
ADFC6C 90-0410 --- 2012-05-02 16:47:06 T-1A United States USAF | 71FTW | 32FTS [KEND]
AE152C 166378 --- 2012-05-02 16:29:01 C-37B United States USN | VR-1 [KADW]
AE0692 63-7997 TURBO34 2012-05-02 16:19:37 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE07A6 59-1474 JEEP31 2012-05-02 16:18:24 KC-135R United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE062A 58-0129 --- 2012-05-02 16:13:33 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE062A 58-0129 JEEP32 2012-05-02 16:13:33 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE062A 58-0129 JEEP32 2012-05-02 15:50:56 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE07A6 59-1474 JEEP31 2012-05-02 15:49:40 KC-135R United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0471 57-1451 SODA81 2012-05-02 15:32:42 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE1165 02-0201 BOXER81 2012-05-02 15:31:17 C-40C United States DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW]
AE0806 99-0060 RHINO90 2012-05-02 15:23:07 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO] 0000 33000
AE0174 84-0119 COUGR73 2012-05-02 15:15:23 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV]
AE0422 59-1499 --- 2012-05-02 15:14:54 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE1496 97-0201 PEACH99 2012-05-02 13:45:28 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0471 57-1451 SODA81 2012-05-02 13:17:48 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE093A 00-1051 --- 2012-05-02 13:11:28 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE] 5672 27000
A725D7 N56PA --- 2012-05-02 13:10:59 Lear 36A United States Phoenix Air Group [KVPC]
AE29CE 08-6201 --- 2012-05-02 03:12:14 MC-130J United States ---
AE1199 03-3116 E33116 2012-05-02 00:25:14 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]

Blue Angels Announce New Boss

NAS PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, announced the commanding officer for the 2013-14 seasons during a press conference at the National Aviation Museum on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., May 1.

A panel of admirals and former Blue Angels commanding officers selected Cmdr. Thomas Frosch to succeed Capt. Greg McWherter.

Frosch, a native of Clinton Township, Mich., joins the Blue Angels after serving as the commanding officer for Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146), on board Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif. His previous assignments include four squadrons, where he flew the F/A-18 Hornet and deployed in support of Operations Southern Watch, Allied Force and Iraqi Freedom. Frosch was also selected to attend the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan as an Individual Augmentee with the NATO International Security Assistance Force.

Frosch attended the U.S. Naval Academy, where he lettered in football, graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering and was commissioned an ensign in the Navy. He also attended the Naval War College, where he earned his Master of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.

Frosch has more than 3,000 flight hours and 830 carrier-arrested landings. His decorations include a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, six Strike Flight Air Medals, two Individual air Medals with Combat "V," three Navy Commendation Medals, one with Combat "V," as well as various campaign and unit awards.

The change-of-command ceremony is slated for November 4, 2012 at the National Museum of Aviation.

The mission of the Blue Angels is to enhance Navy recruiting, and credibly represent Navy and Marine Corps aviation to the United States and its Armed Forces to America and other countries as international ambassadors of good will.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 1 May 2012 - Btown

AAEC74 10-0256 --- 2012-05-01 22:43:04 C-12V1 United States US Army | B/6-52 AVN (TA) DET-1 [KFTK]
ADFEEE 160050 JT038 2012-05-01 22:34:31 C-9B United States USNR | VR-52 [KWRI]
AE1194 166472 OTIS18 2012-05-01 22:03:15 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]
AE0227 86-0028 TEAM55 2012-05-01 21:24:53 KC-10A United States USAF | 305AMW [KWRI]
AE1E5E 07-3894 --- 2012-05-01 20:13:27 T-6A United States ---
AE13C9 04-3755 --- 2012-05-01 20:13:15 T-6A United States USAF | 71FTW [KEND]
A7A899 N593AN 00000000 2012-05-01 18:50:09 DC-9-83 (MD-83) US JPATS
A00001 N1 --- 2012-05-01 18:37:46 G-IV United States FAA HQ [KDCA]
AE031E 74-2072 GLEAN 52 2012-05-01 18:32:33 C-130H United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS] 0000 19100
A0C100 N148GB --- 2012-05-01 18:15:59 BEECH 400A United States L-3 Communications Flight Capital LLC
AE016F 84-0077 PACER54 2012-05-01 18:06:10 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE05A3 61-0309 UPSET22 2012-05-01 17:19:22 KC-135R United States WI ANG | 128ARW | 126ARS [KMKE]
AE03CA 163310 --- 2012-05-01 16:54:55 KC-130T United States USMCR | VMGR-234 [KNFW]
AE035A 57-2593 TAZZ79 2012-05-01 16:40:18 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE015F 58-0119 SODA52 2012-05-01 16:24:56 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE00C6 67-14927 --- 2012-05-01 16:15:01 T-38C United States 87thFTS
AE035A 57-2593 TAZZ79 2012-05-01 15:54:37 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE1493 96-0043 --- 2012-05-01 15:36:57 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH98 2012-05-01 15:36:57 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0265 57-1436 SODA81 2012-05-01 15:35:32 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE1493 96-0043 PEACH98 2012-05-01 14:21:46 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0194 84-0134 --- 2012-05-01 13:59:05 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 311AS [KCOS]
AE0265 57-1436 SODA81 2012-05-01 13:15:33 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE118A 02-1863 R1863 2012-05-01 11:36:58 C-37A United States US Army 2435 40000
AE20C2 07-7181 IMPAC88 2012-05-01 04:50:10 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 0000 21000
AE49C1 09-9205 IMPAC89 2012-05-01 04:48:57 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 0000 21000
AE49C1 09-9205 IMPAC89 2012-05-01 01:38:45 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE04BA 58-0055 --- 2012-05-01 01:28:19 KC-135T United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE1491 95-0121 PHENOM06 2012-05-01 00:20:30 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]

NORAD and USNORTHCOM conducting ARDENT SENTRY 2012 starting tomorrow

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. - The North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command will conduct a major exercise, ARDENT SENTRY 2012, focused on Defense Support of Civil Authorities, May 2 – 9, 2012.

The exercise will be primarily a Command Post Exercise, but there will be field training events within the exercise. Those events will take place in North Dakota, Oregon, Texas, Alaska, Connecticut and Nova Scotia and involve United States and Canadian military units.

- North Dakota, the Air Force Global Strike Command will respond to a simulated Nuclear Weapons Incident (NUWAIX) on Minot Air Force Base.

- Oregon, the Oregon National Guard will work with state and local officials to respond to numerous weather-related and security events.

- Texas, US Army North will deploy a task force to work through the process of leading a military response to a major hurricane.

- Alaska, Joint Task Force-Alaska will conduct a coordinated response to a major aircraft crash in a remote area.

- Nova Scotia, Canadian and US Naval forces will work together to handle a security related event.

ARDENT SENTRY 12 will validate existing plans, policies, and procedures, including the Federal Inter-agency Response Plan, as well as state and regional plans.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 30 Apr 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE07D8 92-3294 --- 2012-04-30 23:44:05 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE11D9 75-0559 SNT@HD3@ 2012-04-30 23:30:09 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE07D6 92-3292 RCH527 2012-04-30 23:23:43 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
ADFEF1 161529 CNV9685 2012-04-30 21:24:51 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] 0000 34000
AE11DA 75-0560 SNTRY40H 2012-04-30 21:03:50 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE0811 00-0175 RCH895 2012-04-30 21:00:06 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE10D0 165514 --- 2012-04-30 20:30:27 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE1171 02-1099 RCH707 2012-04-30 20:19:51 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 0756 34000
AE29DE 08-3174 --- 2012-04-30 19:40:38 C-130J United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
A7A899 N593AN 00000000 2012-04-30 19:06:35 DC-9-83 (MD-83) US JPATS
AE10D0 165514 --- 2012-04-30 18:38:37 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
ADFD0D 95-0065 --- 2012-04-30 18:36:43 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS

AF Reserve, FBI train together during 'Patriot Sands'

Reservists with the 512th Airlift Control Flight, Dover Air Force Base, Del., 452nd ALCF, March Air Reserve Base, Calif., and 439th ALCF, Westover ARB, Mass., joined up with FBI Rapid Deployment Teams during Patriot Sands at MacDill Air Force Base and Patrick AFB, Fla., April 26-29. The exercise involved several units and utilized a C-130 from the 43rd Airlift Group, Pope Field, N.C., a C-17 from the 446th Airlift Wing, McChord AFB, Wash., and a C-17 and C-5M from Dover. (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Marnee A.C. Losurdo)

by Capt. Marnee A.C. Losurdo, 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) -- Five Reserve units and a federal agency teamed up April 26-29 in Florida for Patriot Sands, an airlift training exercise simulating deployed bare base conditions with limited support.

Reservists with the 512th Airlift Control Flight, Dover Air Force Base, Del., 452nd ALCF, March Air Reserve Base, Calif., and 439th ALCF, Westover ARB, Mass., trained with two FBI Rapid Deployment Teams from New York and Washington, D.C.

The Air Force Reserve Command has five airlift control flights, which consist of experienced airlift personnel to manage, coordinate and control air mobility assets. Depending on the mission, the specialized units may have to set up in an austere area, which was the purpose of the exercise--to gain experience and train in a fast-paced environment.

"We are part of contingency operations, and, if there is a surge in military operations or a natural disaster, we have 36 hours to get on a plane and head to a location that needs us, and we set up a mobile command post," said Capt. Jessica Rose, Contingency Response Element commander with the 439th ALCF.

The 512th ALCF was staged at MacDill AFB, Fla., and the 439th ALCF operated out of Patrick AFB, Fla., while the 452nd ALCF worked at both locations. The units controlled airflow between the two bases. The exercise involved several units and utilized a C-130 from the 43rd Airlift Group, Pope Field, N.C., a C-17 from the 446th Airlift Wing, McChord AFB, Wash., and a C-17 and C-5M from Dover.

Master Sgt. Sean Pyne, 512th ALCF loadmaster, planned the exercise for almost 60 Airmen to include reservists with Dover's 46th Aerial Port Squadron and Westover's 42nd Aerial Port Squadron. He said Patriot Sands provided vital training by presenting opportunities for Airmen to get experience establishing a parking area for aircraft, offloading and uploading cargo and managing aircraft arrival and departure times while ensuring load plans and cargo were correctly configured for shipment.

The training wasn't only for Airmen.

"We do the command and control of airplanes, passengers and equipment, but as such we need passengers and equipment to track," said Rose. "So, we help an affiliate, and in this case it's the FBI because if the FBI has to respond quickly to an event, they use Air Force assets. They need practice on how to load their equipment onto the plane, and we need the practice on how to track that plane. So, it's a good fit for both of us."

Reserve ALCFs and active-duty Contingency Response Groups work with the FBI RDTs as part of the Air Mobility Command Affiliate Program. The New York and Washington, D.C. RDT participated in this exercise because they are affiliates of the 512th ALCF.

"Our mission is to deploy anywhere, anytime within a certain amount of time depending on the incident and location," said Amy Landman, FBI supervisory special agent.

The RDT consists of a variety of response teams specializing in areas such as hazardous materials, evidence collection and special weapons and tactics. They deploy state side and overseas to support FBI missions, which can range from terrorist to criminal incidents against the United States.

"As part of the affiliate program, we teach people equipment preparation and load planning, so they can get their cargo prepared for airlift on AMC aircraft and delivered to locations throughout the world," said Master Sgt. Henry Fortney, 512th ALCF loadmaster and exercise planner.

In addition to classroom instruction, Patriot Sands provided hands-on training for the RDTs.

"We have some really good loadmasters, and we have some brand new guys, too," said Landman, who added the New York and Washington D.C. FBI RDTs participates in about two exercises a year. "For a few of us, it's the first time tying things down and seeing this side of military airlift."

"These guys need to be able to get out of town on their own," said Pyne, who works for the FBI as a logistics management specialist. "This means they have to do all the weighing, measuring, marking, taping, load plans; everything independently. Patriot Sands allowed them to get out, get on a plane, practice moving, do their uploads and downloads, and become proficient. They also got to work with our aerial porters and learn from them."

"We try to link up with our Reserve affiliates as they have their mandates for training as well," said Landman. "This is a joint training effort; we couldn't do it without them; that's for sure."

Training such as this is vital when the time comes to respond to a crisis, said Lt. Col. Mark Visco, 512th ALCF commander. In January 2010, the unit responded within 12 hours to run air operations at Homestead ARB, Fla., to provide humanitarian relief supplies to the earthquake-ravaged Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response. Over a two-week period, their unit had more than 600 aircraft bringing thousands of tons of cargo from all different types of agencies in and out of Homestead ARB bound for the Caribbean nation.

"It was a record-setting operation, never before accomplished in AFRC," said Visco. "Our preparation, like the training we are accomplishing here at MacDill, ensured we were up to the task and ready to respond."

USS Underwood Completes COMTUEX

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Frank J. Pikul, Southern Seas 2012 Public Affairs

USS UNDERWOOD, At Sea (NNS) -- The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36) completed Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMTUEX) April 30 and is deploying to Central and South America and the Caribbean in support of Southern Seas 2012.

The ship participated in events for COMTUEX that simulated various situations, including combat-orientated exercises.

"This was a great opportunity for us to get underway working in a multi-ship, complex warfare environment and set us up very well for success on deployment," said Cmdr. Michael D. Brassuer, USS Underwood executive officer.

The COMPTUEX included a live-fire gun exercise of the ship's weapon systems, simulated missile attacks, small boat attacks, man overboard drills, underway replenishments, and ship boarding training by the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team. Underwood also sailed in formation with other U.S. Navy ships and practiced evasive maneuvers. These exercises were designed to be as true-to-life as possible.

"It was realistic training," said Brassuer. "I could see by the watch team's reactions that they thought the scenarios were real."

One of the highlights of COMTUEX for Underwood was the VBSS ship boarding exercise. The team boarded a simulated "ship of interest", USNS Hugo (TYL-8201), to search the vessel. They provided medical aid and engineering support during the simulation.

"For COMTUEX, the VBSS team gets ready to be certified so that in case of emergencies, we can board vessels to search for any kind of contraband, such as illegal drugs and firearms," said Electricians Mate 2nd Class Aldo Rodriguez, a member of the VBSS team aboard Underwood. "They just want us to be ready to go whenever we spot a suspicious ship in the area."

Underwood is deploying in support of Southern Seas 2012. Its first exercise will be UNITAS Pacific (UNITAS PAC), an exercise with foreign navies of South America, designed to practice security and stability operations. Crew members will also participate in community relation events while in port and will perform maritime security operations at sea.

Underwood completed COMTUEX to gain qualifications required for its deployment.

"It gave us a chance to come together as a team and get ready for deployment," said Brassuer.

UNITAS, Latin for "unity", is the oldest maritime exercise conducted each year since 1959. The multinational exercise is focused on operating and training together in scenario-based environments, theater security operations, anti-terrorism and anti-narcotic operations. UNITAS also includes live-fire exercises, humanitarian assistance and disaster response training.

U.S. personnel are given the opportunity to work and train side-by-side with sailors of Latin American navies and build relationships. The relationships that develop from this exercise will help foster cooperation and understanding between participating countries.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F) support U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

Navy, Coast Guard Ships Depart Port Everglades Following Fleet Week

By By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Greg Johnson, Commander, Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs

PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- The Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps completed participation in Fleet Week Port Everglades 2012 , as four Navy ships, one submarine and one Coast Guard cutter departed April 30 following a five-day visit intended bring the military and local civilian communities together.

Throughout the week, Sailors, Marines and Coastguardsmen participated in numerous Fleet Week community relations events at various locations throughout Port Everglades and surrounding areas. According to Broward Navy Days Chairperson Mary Anne Gray, this year's event was a resounding success.

"We look forward to this event every year because we want to honor our service members," she said. "We get to meet great people who serve selflessly every day to keep this country safe and we want them to have a great time and show them the appreciation they deserve."

This year's festivities featured a variety of events, including 15 community relations projects, ship tours for the public, Damage Control Olympics, "Galley Wars," a blood drive, a military-civilian fishing tournament, and a military-civilian five-kilometer run. According to Electrician's Mate 1st Class (SS/DV) Chris Duman, who participated in a community relations project at Harbordale Elementary School, the week was a rewarding experience for those who engaged in community service projects.

"Being able to come out here and spend the time with the children of the community has been absolutely great," he said. "It's an opportunity for us and the kids to get together and learn more about each other. Who knows, maybe today will have such an impact on one of these kids and they go on to be a great leader in the Navy."

Four U.S. Navy ships, a submarine and a U.S. Coast Guard cutter participated in Fleet Week Port Everglades 2012, an event designed to showcase the investment Americans have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.

Guam, New Mexico Guard CSTs perform disaster training

Members of the joint Civil Support Team collect, mark and bag unknown chemical samples on the suspected terrorist tugboat Pono during a simulated training event in Honolulu, April 24, 2012. (Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Matt Young)

By Army National Guard Matt Young, Hawaii National Guard

HONOLULU -- The New Mexico National Guard’s 64th Civil Support Team along with Guam’s 94th CST recently participated in the multi-agency exercise Kai Malu O Hawaii - Protected Waters of Hawaii - and responded to a call from the Coast Guard about a stolen tugboat.

The stolen tugboat named Pono was seized during the night of April 24 by the U.S. Coast Guard off the shore of Oahu. Eight Coast Guard members boarded ready for action and discovered four vials of an unknown substance, bomb-making materials and mortars. They brought the boat back to the docks and called upon a Civil Support Team to investigate the findings. Fortunately, this was only a training exercise.

The 14 members of the combined CST are specifically qualified to deal with hazardous materials, have more than 1,000 hours of training and are trying to teach area responders how to better handle potential disasters and terrorist attacks during this event.

“Even a small-scale attack directed at a maritime target in Hawaii could disrupt maritime operations and create an immediate need for increased security at all regional ports,” said Ray Toves, director, Civil Support Team Training and Readiness Division, 196th Infantry Brigade.

“An attack using a weapon of mass destruction would further complicate the emergency response efforts and would create a tremendous burden on a wide variety of local, state and federal recourses,” Toves said.

When the CST arrives on the scene, they work for the local incident commander and bring him a unique capability to analyze suspected hazardous agents on site. Their first step is to set up their operations area, ready their medical truck, check all equipment and set up a decontamination area.

“The first thing we try to do is have our teams set up the equipment and prep the [decontamination] area while the leaders collect the latest [intelligence] to brief the entry team,” said Army Maj. Xavier Miller, commander of the 64th CST, New Mexico.

During the KOH exercise, the three-person entry team, which consisted of team chief Army Staff Sgt. Anthony Cruz of the 94th CST, Army Spc. Patrick Gallegos of the 64th CST and Air Force Senior Airman Christine Eclavea of the 94th CST, got their mission brief, suited up and proceeded to board the tugboat.

Once on board, the entry CST began taking samples of the air and checking for abnormal readings on their machines that would detect anything out of the ordinary.

As the CST made their way into the kitchen of the tugboat they came upon the vials, bomb materials and mortars. The team continued to take readings, air samples and pictures of the suspect devices and carefully bagged the vials to bring them back for further testing.

While these procedures are standard for responding to a hazardous material threat, not everything about this training exercise was what the teams are used to.

“This mission was unique in that we were working on a tugboat,” Gallegos said. “When I saw what we were going into, I was like ‘whoa’, this will be interesting.”

One of the key factors I thought was performing missions that some of the participating CST members may not have been used to, Miller said.

Miller believes KOH was a great and unique opportunity to be able to come out and work with other CSTs from Guam and across the states.