The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of the next force rotation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The announcement involves three brigade combat teams, and one armored cavalry regiment totaling approximately 15,000 personnel. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the summer of 2010.
These units will serve as advise and assist brigades and will replace redeploying units, with no increase in overall force levels.
Specific units receiving deployment orders include:
4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Wahiawa, Hawaii
3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas
4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas
Additionally, the secretary of defense approved a request by the commander of Multi-National Forces-Iraq (MNF-I) to extend the deployment of the 1st Cavalry Division Headquarters for up to an additional 23 days, and elements of the II Marine Expeditionary Force for up to an additional 79 days.
The extensions will ensure that key capabilities are maintained during the critical period following the January elections, and provide additional support for the orderly redeployment of the remaining Marine Corps forces and equipment.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
GW Departs Yokosuka for 2009 Fall Deployment
An F/A-18C Hornet, from the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, executes a touch and go during an air demonstration aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, hosted a family and guest cruise after returning from her inaugural summer deployment supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Marcos Vazquez/Released) By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group departed Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), Japan Oct. 6 for its second annual fall deployment in support of maritime security and to participate in ANNUALEX 2009, the premiere bilateral exercise between the U.S. and Japan.
USS George Washington (CVN 73) recently completed a month-long maintenance and repair period at CFAY after returning from her inaugural summer deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations Sept. 3.
"As we sail back to sea, we look forward to building upon the successes of our inaugural summer deployment fostering strong and positive relationships with numerous global maritime partners throughout the 7th Fleet area of responsibility," said GW's Commanding Officer Capt. David A. Lausman. "The crew of the George Washington and Carrier Air Wing Five enjoy working closely with navies in complex training environments building interoperability and understanding.
"The real strength in building a true global maritime partnership is an exposure to the manner in which we each analyze and address the various security issues of the region. The unique diversity each partner brings to the problem solving table translates directly to increased security and stability throughout our critical shared maritime environment."
A key element of this year's fall patrol will be GW working alongside the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force as part of the largest and most complex yearly bilateral military exercise between Japan and the United States.
"Our participation in ANNUALEX is important because it enhances the interoperability between the U.S. Navy and Japan" said GW's Operations Officer, Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "Being able to work closely with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force allows us to build closer ties with our host country while at the same time helping us to work efficiently as a team in a time of crisis."
Commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin Donegan, the George Washington Carrier Strike Group with more than 5,000 Sailors, is also comprised of Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15), and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).
Gen. Wyatt: Associate missions must continue
The Air National Guard's associate missions with the active duty and Air Force Reserve need to continue beyond the new missions formed after Base Realignment and Closure in 2005, the director of the Air Guard said here Oct. 6.
Lt. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III told members of the Minuteman Institute for National Defense Studies that the Air Guard's "great talent" flowed into new, associate missions following BRAC, thanks to its participation in total force integration.
"Those were the days where it was easy to put together an association, because the Air Guard after BRAC had manpower available ... and so there were opportunities to do what Guardsmen do and to transition and adapt and move into these new mission sets and form these units," said Wyatt, who sat on a BRAC Total Force steering committee at that time.
Air Guard officials said TFI aligns the Air Force's equipment, missions, infrastructure and manpower to use assets effectively and efficiently.
"Total force" has been a Department of Defense policy for more than 35 years, but associate units surged in the early 2000s.
Three of the Air Guard's newest associate wings officially stood up Oct. 1, including the 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., and the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Birmingham ANGB, Ala. Those units conduct aerial refueling missions with the KC-135 Stratotankers.
The Air Guard leads 66 other TFI initiatives, but not all of those initiatives involve associate units. Officials said the latest chief of staff of the Air Force-approved TFI list contains 138 TFI initiatives, of which 96 impact the Air Guard.
"We need to continue doing that," General Wyatt said.
General Wyatt also pointed out that new weapons systems operate 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year as opposed to dated concepts of an eight-hour-a-day work cycle. Those systems, he said, require the manpower available to run them and their support missions.
"If we don't go to TFI constructs, and if we don't get the Guard concurrently and proportionally bedded down in this new capability, we will find ourselves limited, not by the platform, but limited by the manpower available to fly the mission," General Wyatt said.
Lt. Gen. Harry M. Wyatt III told members of the Minuteman Institute for National Defense Studies that the Air Guard's "great talent" flowed into new, associate missions following BRAC, thanks to its participation in total force integration.
"Those were the days where it was easy to put together an association, because the Air Guard after BRAC had manpower available ... and so there were opportunities to do what Guardsmen do and to transition and adapt and move into these new mission sets and form these units," said Wyatt, who sat on a BRAC Total Force steering committee at that time.
Air Guard officials said TFI aligns the Air Force's equipment, missions, infrastructure and manpower to use assets effectively and efficiently.
"Total force" has been a Department of Defense policy for more than 35 years, but associate units surged in the early 2000s.
Three of the Air Guard's newest associate wings officially stood up Oct. 1, including the 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., and the 117th Air Refueling Wing at Birmingham ANGB, Ala. Those units conduct aerial refueling missions with the KC-135 Stratotankers.
The Air Guard leads 66 other TFI initiatives, but not all of those initiatives involve associate units. Officials said the latest chief of staff of the Air Force-approved TFI list contains 138 TFI initiatives, of which 96 impact the Air Guard.
"We need to continue doing that," General Wyatt said.
General Wyatt also pointed out that new weapons systems operate 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year as opposed to dated concepts of an eight-hour-a-day work cycle. Those systems, he said, require the manpower available to run them and their support missions.
"If we don't go to TFI constructs, and if we don't get the Guard concurrently and proportionally bedded down in this new capability, we will find ourselves limited, not by the platform, but limited by the manpower available to fly the mission," General Wyatt said.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Milcom Blog Logs - Oct 1-5, 2009 - Mid Atlantic
Ron, a member of the MMP team, passed along the following HF frequencies monitored in from his Mid Atlantic monitoring post. Thanks Ron for sharing your frequency list with my readers.
1 Oct
05402.0 FC8FEM006 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 6 Denver CO): 0130 USB/ALE sounding. Also sounding on 03441.0 USB.
2 Oct
08912.0 AAA (Israeli Air Force): 2100 USB/ALE sounding.
4 Oct
08346.0 Unid: CW w/5-ltr groups. Probable Cuban DGI.
05 Oct
08847.0 AA1 (Israeli Air Force): 0100 USB/ALE sounding.
1 Oct
05402.0 FC8FEM006 (Communications Manager, FEMA Region 6 Denver CO): 0130 USB/ALE sounding. Also sounding on 03441.0 USB.
2 Oct
08912.0 AAA (Israeli Air Force): 2100 USB/ALE sounding.
4 Oct
08346.0 Unid: CW w/5-ltr groups. Probable Cuban DGI.
05 Oct
08847.0 AA1 (Israeli Air Force): 0100 USB/ALE sounding.
Africa Exercise Strengthens Communications
By Marine Corps Sgt. Rocco DeFilippis, Special to American Forces Press Service
LIBREVILLE, Gabon - Nearly 200 people from 26 countries and three international organizations came together in Gabon to participate in Exercise Africa Endeavor.
The annual exercise, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command, aims to help African militaries improve their communications capabilities. The exercise this year began Sept. 29 and ends tomorrow.
The exercise focuses on two important areas of military communications: data, which includes the hardware and software of computer networks, and radio, used to send voice and data transmissions.
Marine Corps Sgt. Zach D. Zapotoski, exercise data chief/lead planner, said the purpose of the exercise is to bring communicators from throughout the various economic regions of Africa to evaluate and standardize communication plans.
"We are testing to ensure that all of the different kinds of gear that each participant uses is compatible," Zapotoski said. "Through this process we are collecting data, identifying gaps and shortfalls, and then working to address the areas where those gaps occur."
According to Marine Corps Capt. Dave Fuller, exercise technical director, the effort to standardize is one of the main goals of the exercise.
"The first goal is to increase the interoperability with the countries that are going to be working with each other in the different African Standby Forces," Fuller said.
Because each nation brings different capabilities, experience levels and operating methods, establishing standard operating procedures is key to future success, said Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Kish, exercise test network coordinator.
"The most important thing is that we are establishing [standard operating procedures]," Kish said. "It's important because as the African nations work together in the future or when we work with them in the future, we can have that data to look at to see what worked and what needs a solution."
In addition to the technical and professional aspects of the exercise, Fuller said, another important goal is to build and strengthen relationships.
"Our second goal is to pair up these nations to not only build up partner relations between us, but also to create and bolster partnerships between the African countries as well," Fuller said.
The exercise is broken down into phases in order to establish the standard operating procedures and collect all of the necessary data. Both the radio and data portions have three phases of execution throughout the exercise.
In the first phase of the radio portion of the exercise, each nation uses internal testing to ensure that everyone's equipment is compatible and functioning properly, Marine Corps Sgt. Christian Valencia said.
"Each nation generally has the same types of gear, but brands and capabilities vary," he said. "So, in this first phase we are ironing out compatibility issues to get the ball rolling for the next phase."
During the first phase, Valencia said, all of the internal testing happens between radios on the site here.
From the testing phase, the radio communicators move to the second phase where they reach back to their home nation to establish communications. During the third phase, participants communicate from the host site to sites within other countries.
"We are taking the results of the various tests and compile them into a single package that can be used for future reference," Valencia said.
The phases for the data portion of the exercise run along similar lines as the radio portion, Zapotoski said.
During the first phase, each nation partnered with one other nation and constructed and tested their network.
For the second phase, the nations are building and testing a series of interconnected computers that share data within their associated economic region. And in the last phase, the regional networks will be tied together to simulate a wide-area network.
"Our goal is to be able to identify and configure a routing protocol that can be used to communicate on a basic level," Zapotoski said.
A quick visit to one of the tents or buildings on the site reveals that the exercise involves even more than technical exploits and data gathering.
The exercise has provided the U.S. and African participants with an opportunity to build professional and personal relationships, Fuller said.
"It's a rare opportunity to interact with military representatives from 25 different countries at one time," Kish said. "So there have been plenty of chances to interact with each other and share in each other's culture."
"The whole experience has been tremendous," Zambian Warrant Officer 2 Lufuma Augustine added. "In the sense that we are all Africans and we each face similar problems, being able to cooperate and work together to solve some problems is very nice."
Various events designed to increase interaction and cultural sharing are built into the exercise itself, Fuller said, including traditional meals, social gatherings, team sports and even the exercise's location, which is held in a different country each year to promote cultural exchange.
For this year's exercise, even the initial and mid-planning conferences were held in different countries.
"That's what this exercise is really all about," Fuller said. "Getting on the same sheet of music, as far as communication is concerned, and building those relationships so that these partner nations can work together in the future."
LIBREVILLE, Gabon - Nearly 200 people from 26 countries and three international organizations came together in Gabon to participate in Exercise Africa Endeavor.
The annual exercise, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command, aims to help African militaries improve their communications capabilities. The exercise this year began Sept. 29 and ends tomorrow.
The exercise focuses on two important areas of military communications: data, which includes the hardware and software of computer networks, and radio, used to send voice and data transmissions.
Marine Corps Sgt. Zach D. Zapotoski, exercise data chief/lead planner, said the purpose of the exercise is to bring communicators from throughout the various economic regions of Africa to evaluate and standardize communication plans.
"We are testing to ensure that all of the different kinds of gear that each participant uses is compatible," Zapotoski said. "Through this process we are collecting data, identifying gaps and shortfalls, and then working to address the areas where those gaps occur."
According to Marine Corps Capt. Dave Fuller, exercise technical director, the effort to standardize is one of the main goals of the exercise.
"The first goal is to increase the interoperability with the countries that are going to be working with each other in the different African Standby Forces," Fuller said.
Because each nation brings different capabilities, experience levels and operating methods, establishing standard operating procedures is key to future success, said Marine Corps Sgt. Ryan Kish, exercise test network coordinator.
"The most important thing is that we are establishing [standard operating procedures]," Kish said. "It's important because as the African nations work together in the future or when we work with them in the future, we can have that data to look at to see what worked and what needs a solution."
In addition to the technical and professional aspects of the exercise, Fuller said, another important goal is to build and strengthen relationships.
"Our second goal is to pair up these nations to not only build up partner relations between us, but also to create and bolster partnerships between the African countries as well," Fuller said.
The exercise is broken down into phases in order to establish the standard operating procedures and collect all of the necessary data. Both the radio and data portions have three phases of execution throughout the exercise.
In the first phase of the radio portion of the exercise, each nation uses internal testing to ensure that everyone's equipment is compatible and functioning properly, Marine Corps Sgt. Christian Valencia said.
"Each nation generally has the same types of gear, but brands and capabilities vary," he said. "So, in this first phase we are ironing out compatibility issues to get the ball rolling for the next phase."
During the first phase, Valencia said, all of the internal testing happens between radios on the site here.
From the testing phase, the radio communicators move to the second phase where they reach back to their home nation to establish communications. During the third phase, participants communicate from the host site to sites within other countries.
"We are taking the results of the various tests and compile them into a single package that can be used for future reference," Valencia said.
The phases for the data portion of the exercise run along similar lines as the radio portion, Zapotoski said.
During the first phase, each nation partnered with one other nation and constructed and tested their network.
For the second phase, the nations are building and testing a series of interconnected computers that share data within their associated economic region. And in the last phase, the regional networks will be tied together to simulate a wide-area network.
"Our goal is to be able to identify and configure a routing protocol that can be used to communicate on a basic level," Zapotoski said.
A quick visit to one of the tents or buildings on the site reveals that the exercise involves even more than technical exploits and data gathering.
The exercise has provided the U.S. and African participants with an opportunity to build professional and personal relationships, Fuller said.
"It's a rare opportunity to interact with military representatives from 25 different countries at one time," Kish said. "So there have been plenty of chances to interact with each other and share in each other's culture."
"The whole experience has been tremendous," Zambian Warrant Officer 2 Lufuma Augustine added. "In the sense that we are all Africans and we each face similar problems, being able to cooperate and work together to solve some problems is very nice."
Various events designed to increase interaction and cultural sharing are built into the exercise itself, Fuller said, including traditional meals, social gatherings, team sports and even the exercise's location, which is held in a different country each year to promote cultural exchange.
For this year's exercise, even the initial and mid-planning conferences were held in different countries.
"That's what this exercise is really all about," Fuller said. "Getting on the same sheet of music, as far as communication is concerned, and building those relationships so that these partner nations can work together in the future."
DoD Announces Replacement Units for Afghanistan Rotation
The Department of Defense announced today major units scheduled to deploy as part of the next rotation operating in Afghanistan. This announcement involves a combat brigade and combat aviation brigade totaling approximately 6,100 service members. The scheduled rotation for these forces will begin in the spring and continue through the summer of 2010.
The spring rotation of approximately 2,800 soldiers of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, from Fort Campbell, Ky, continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the level of forces necessary to provide sufficient military capability for the NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to further improve security and stability operations.
The summer rotation of approximately 3,300 soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Co, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, will continue the ongoing training and mentoring mission of Afghan National Security Forces in Afghanistan.
In consultation with Afghan officials and NATO, commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure sufficient force levels to best support the Government of Afghanistan, perform counter-terrorism operations, assist with reconstruction, and train and equip the Afghan National Security Forces.
The spring rotation of approximately 2,800 soldiers of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, from Fort Campbell, Ky, continues the U.S. commitment to maintain the level of forces necessary to provide sufficient military capability for the NATO-International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to further improve security and stability operations.
The summer rotation of approximately 3,300 soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Co, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, will continue the ongoing training and mentoring mission of Afghan National Security Forces in Afghanistan.
In consultation with Afghan officials and NATO, commanders continue to assess the situation to ensure sufficient force levels to best support the Government of Afghanistan, perform counter-terrorism operations, assist with reconstruction, and train and equip the Afghan National Security Forces.
Bonhomme Richard ARG Enters 7th Fleet
The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J Kaiser (T-AO 187). Bonhomme Richard, the flagship for the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, is on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sarah E. Bitter/Released)BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), the flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), entered the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations Oct. 2 as part of its regularly scheduled deployment to promote peace, cooperation and stability in the region.
Led by Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG consists of three ships — amphibious assault ship Bonhomme Richard, amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).
"We have a great Navy, Marine Corps team and offer a full range of operational capabilities. We look forward to operating in the 7th Fleet and playing a role in regional security and cooperation," said Clark. "We are also prepared to provide assistance in the region when called upon."
The ARG's 2,300 personnel make up the Navy component of a multicapable team that also includes 2,200 embarked Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), commanded by Col. Gregg Olson.
Capt. John Funk, Bonhomme Richard's commanding officer, is also looking forward to operating in the 7th Fleet region.
"We are looking forward to every opportunity to build friendships and enhance partnerships in the region and wherever we visit, to show our hosts the best ambassadors the United States has to offer – the Sailors and Marines of Bonhomme Richard," said Funk.
In addition to its ships, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; the "Wild Cards" of Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.
The 7th Fleet operating area includes more than half of the world's population and more than 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian Oceans — stretching from the International Date Line to the east coast of Africa, and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south.
The Bonhomme Richard ARG is transiting the 7th Fleet Area of Operations and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
McInerney Sets Sail for Final Deployment
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sunday E. Williams, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East Detachment Southeast
MAYPORT, Fla (NNS) -- Family, friends and military gathered aboard Naval Station Mayport Oct. 5 to bid safe farewell to USS McInerney (FFG 8) as they set sail for their final deployment.
The McInerney will be the first gas turbine propelled ship to complete 30 years of service during their six-month deployment. All other ships of this kind have decommissioned prior to accomplishing this significant milestone.
According to McInerney's Command Master Chief, CMDCM (SW/AW/SCW) John T. Lawry this milestone pleases more than just the ship's current crew and the Navy.
"The pride I feel to have served on a warship with the history that McInerney possesses is indescribable. This ship was commissioned before anyone currently serving on her was in the Navy, and before many of her Sailors were even born. This accomplishment is a great testament to all who have sailed on her that this ship has performed at high levels for this long," said Lawry.
People not serving aboard McInerney felt that same pride about the ship's many years of success.
"I have watched this ship pull in and out of this harbor for years," said Neptune Beach local, "Buzz" Wilks. "I never get tired of watching ships leave full of Sailors, full of our country's angels setting out to serve, but nothing makes me happier than seeing them return home, and this one is going to come back having served this great country for 30 years. Now that's really something."
Lawry said the ship and its crew have many accomplishments, but he does have one that stands out.
"The accomplishments of any warship, let alone one with 30 years of service are so numerous and lengthy that I would do injustice trying to name them all. The accomplishment that stands out most to me during my tour would be the first capture of a SPSS (Drug Sub) by the crew while on deployment in 2008. Our combined efforts resulted in legislation being created to help stem the flow of illegal drugs into the United States and its allies," said Lawry.
The SPSS or self-propelled semi-submersible vessel Lawry referred to was carrying an estimated $107 million worth of cocaine that never hit the streets of the United States. Lawry said it is always great to take part in something so significant but the goal of every deployment is always bigger, it's always about safety.
"If you asked me what the goal of the deployment is I would answer that it is to bring back everyone we left with to their families and loved ones. Everything else that we accomplish as a team just makes my job that much more satisfying – but our primary goal whether it's for deployment, or just for a day, is to bring everyone home safely in the same condition or better than when we left."
Lawry's pride goes beyond the accomplishments of the ship and of its future milestone; his pride is in the crew.
"It is hard to describe my feelings for this crew and the growth they have shown as a whole during my tour aboard. We have been faced with so many challenges in such a short time it's seriously mind boggling. Watching these young men work together and put aside differences to accomplish something that was a huge undertaking is especially gratifying. I am proud to serve as the command master chief of such a hard working and professional group of individuals all who strive to improve and grow on a daily basis."
As McInerney sets out to unknown obstacles and achievements, people walk away already awaiting their return.
Air Force officials dedicate C-130 to Army's 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan
Servicemembers assembled on the flightline to tour a C-130 Hercules from the 440th Airlift Wing at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., Oct. 5, 2009, at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. The C-130 was dedicated to the Army's 82nd Airborne Division in honor of the cohesion of the Air Force and the Army in Afghanistan and was put on display for servicemembers to view the aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Felicia Juenke) by Tech. Sgt. John Jung, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- Air Force officials here dedicated a C-130 Hercules to the Soldiers of the Army's 82nd Airborne Division stationed in Afghanistan Oct. 5 at Bagram Airfield.
The transport was originally dedicated at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., Oct. 25, 2008, to Fort Bragg's entire 82nd Airborne Division based in North Carolina.
Tail number 79282 from the Air Force Reserve 440th Airlift Wing from Pope AFB has official nose art prominently displaying an American eagle in flight surrounding the iconic 82nd Airborne's insignia wings on the aircraft's fuselage. The plane also sports "Bragg-Pope" on its tail flash representing the close relationship between the Fort Bragg and Pope AFB.
Using the total force, an active duty crew deployed from the 2nd Airlift Squadron, an associate unit of the 440th AW, to fly the Reserve C-130 to Bagram Afghanistan. The crew included Capt. Alan Rathjen and Capt. Laura Easton, both C-130 pilots, and Staff Sgt. Matt Metz, C-130 loadmaster.
"The aircraft is being dedicated to the 82nd in honor of the cohesion of the Air Force and the Army in the fight in Afghanistan," said Captain Rathjen, a native of St. Louis who is assigned to the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron.
While the dedication was symbolic in nature, the tangible effects of the C-130 are felt every day by Airmen and Soldiers alike.
"A few days ago we airdropped (Meals, Ready to Eat) and water down to Soldiers at a (forward operating base)," said Captain Easton of the 774th EAS and a native of Pittsburgh. "It's the mission we trained for at the 2nd AS and (one) we're ready to employ here for the joint fight."
"I came here to be a part of history," said Army Master Sgt. John Plasse, assigned to the 38th Infantry Division and an Afghan national security forces liaison. "It's great to have something you've worked in, flown into and out of combat with ... and then it's gotten you home safely all those times ... dedicated to you and your fellow Soldiers."
Bringing critical supplies via airdrop to Soldiers on the ground is what the C-130 is suited to and is excelling at in Afghanistan. C-130s at Bagram Airfield average between five and eight tons of cargo per airdrop mission.
Continuing the overall mission to feed, fuel and arm the fight, September marked the fourth consecutive month in which an increase of supplies was airdropped by the Air Force to coalition partners and local citizens across Afghanistan.
In total, 4.1 million pounds of goods were dropped to forward operating bases, combat outposts and other austere locations in support of ground forces.
"It's our day-to-day job," said Sergeant Metz of the 774th EAS who is a native of Springfield, Va. "I'm proud to have brought this C-130 to Afghanistan for the dedication, but I'm more gratified being the loadmaster who gets to airdrop (supplies) to the guys on the ground."
Airdrops have proven to be a safe and reliable method for delivering vital supplies into locations where roads don't exist, the terrain is too mountainous, the cargo is too heavy for helicopters or where the insurgent threat is too great.
ACC officials hold bomb wing transition summit
Responsibility for Air Combat Command's three nuclear-capable bomb wings will transition from ACC to Air Force Global Strike Command Feb. 1, 2010, and include bomber forces, like the B-2 Spirit shown here from the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., as well as bombers from the 2nd BW at Barksdale AFB, La., and the 5th BW at Minot AFB, N.D. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Kenny Holston)by Tech. Sgt. Mike Slater, Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFNS) -- Staff members from Air Combat Command and Air Force Global Strike Command along with representatives from Headquarters Air Force and U.S. Strategic Command met Sep. 30 to work on solutions for the smooth transition of ACC's three bomb wings with nuclear missions to AFGSC.
On Feb. 1, 2010, control of ACC's three nuclear-capable bomb wings -- the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La.; the 5th BW at Minot AFB, N.D.; and the 509th BW at Whiteman AFB, Mo. -- will move to AFGSC, with headquarters located at Barksdale.
This is the first in a series of responsibility transfer summits.
"Our goal is to make sure that we have a very smooth and safe handoff of the functions that are accomplished at the (major command level) between Air Combat Command and Global Strike Command, so that we continue to support the numbered Air Forces and the field units that are out there," said Col. Jim Dunn, ACC A/10 Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration director.
Additional summits will be held in November and December.
According to Col. Howard Shrum, AFGSC Det. 1 commander, "I think there are a lot of programs we can transfer over very easily into Global Strike Command. One of the niceties that we have here with Air Combat Command is that they've already been doing a lot of the work, so all we need to do is make sure we have a good transfer of all of that information into Global Strike Command and that we're ready, willing and able to take over."
AFGSC's Det. 1 staff is located at Langley to aid the transition.
One of the issues discussed at the summit was manning.
"Just like everywhere else in the Air Force, we are finding out that people are really our most critical resources," Colonel Dunn said.
In this instance, the issue is finding people who have the training, experience and background in the nuclear enterprise, he said.
"Making sure that we find the right people that we can move into the right jobs at Global Strike Command has probably been our biggest challenge and will continue to be our biggest challenge in the future.
"To some degree, we are trapped in a 'rob-Peter-to-pay-Paul' situation," Colonel Dunn said. "There is not an overwhelming number of people with nuclear experience within the Air Force at large."
He added that once the right person is found, getting him or her to Global Strike Command often will require a permanent change of station.
"There, we have a transition period where we lose somebody for 30-45 days as they take care of their family and their lives and make the move happen," Colonel Dunn said. "So we're working very, very hard to make those transitions move as smoothly as we possibly can, to meter them throughout the course of winter and next summer so we don't have a huge falloff in capacity here at Langley or a slow ramp-up at Global Strike Command."
Representatives from AFGSC and ACC echoed that the partnership between the commands will continue well after the responsibility transfer because both belong to the combat air forces and each command plays a key role in America's defense.
As KC-135Es retire, Air Force officials' focus shifts to KC-X
by Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol, Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNS) -- One of the last of the KC-135E Stratotankers to retire made its final flight Sept. 28 to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, and after more than 50 years of service, tail number 56-1503 will be relegated to a life as one of several planes used for aircraft maintenance training on the base.
This KC-135E was built in 1956 and was one of 161 KC-135Es that once were in the Air Force fleet. Today's Airmen keep the current Air Force fleet of 415 KC-135Rs flying until they will be replaced in the decades to come.
The KC-135E also brings to light the Air Force's need to get the new KC-X tankers, Air Mobility Command officials said.
On Sept. 24, just four days before the Sheppard AFB KC-135E was flown for the last time, Department of Defense officials announced a new KC-X tanker draft request for proposal has gone out. The plan calls for 179 aerial refueling tankers to replace the half-century old KC-135. The new KC-X will also augment the airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers and medical patients in a secondary role.
With the KC-X announcement, Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, the AMC commander, was glad to hear the news.
"This is a great day not only for Air Mobility Command, which operates our nation's fleet of aerial refueling aircraft, but also for our country as this is a capability we critically need," he said. "As a warfighter, I'm glad to see this day come."
As the KC-X process continues, officials said AMC's challenge will be to continue meeting a steep requirement of worldwide air refueling needs by the Air Force and its joint and coalition partners. That job falls to the aircrew, maintenance and other support personnel.
The KC-135 fleet currently maintains an 80 percent mission capable rate, officials from AMC's Logistics Directorate reported. For each hour of flight of a KC-135, it requires an average of seven to eight man-hours of maintenance. The KC-135E sent to Sheppard AFB to train maintenance Airmen helps in preparing new maintainers to meet this effort.
In the Air Force, every time a KC-135 mission is flown, it requires a crew chief and two assistants to inspect the plane for repairs. When something needs repaired, a specialist is called in. Currently, the top KC-135 systems incurring the most maintenance man-hours in the field are the fuel tank systems, auxiliary power units, flight controls and engine instruments.
Another item to consider is every year, approximately 72 KC-135s go through Air Force Materiel Command's depot maintenance with a number of age-related issues needing to be addressed. KC-135 systems and maintenance managers said this is causing the days in depot to grow. Planners also note that the older the KC-135s get, the more resources in time, manpower and money it will takes to fix them.
AMC projections show that in the next 15 to 30 years, there will be an anticipated increase in planned depot maintenance for KC-135s. This will include rewiring, reskinning, corrosion control and other structural maintenance as well as overhauling flight controls and upgrading aging analog systems in the aircraft. That extra maintenance could increase annual costs anywhere from $2 billion to $6 billion.
While some retired KC-135Es are set up for training at Sheppard AFB, others are set aside for parts at the "boneyard" at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.
"It (the aircraft) may be here for another 15 to 20 years as we harvest parts off it," said Col. Tom Schneider, the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group commander. "We are going to put this aircraft to good use. It will go into storage, which means it will be eligible for parts withdrawal to keep the rest of the fleet flying."
Officials are confident they can keep the worldwide air refueling mission going with the KC-135R and KC-10 Extender fleet. However, they also are fervently awaiting the new tanker.
The time is now to move on with this program, said General Lichte of the Air Force's No. 1 procurement priority. This is a critical commitment to recapitalize a key aircraft supporting the national military strategy.
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNS) -- One of the last of the KC-135E Stratotankers to retire made its final flight Sept. 28 to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, and after more than 50 years of service, tail number 56-1503 will be relegated to a life as one of several planes used for aircraft maintenance training on the base.
This KC-135E was built in 1956 and was one of 161 KC-135Es that once were in the Air Force fleet. Today's Airmen keep the current Air Force fleet of 415 KC-135Rs flying until they will be replaced in the decades to come.
The KC-135E also brings to light the Air Force's need to get the new KC-X tankers, Air Mobility Command officials said.
On Sept. 24, just four days before the Sheppard AFB KC-135E was flown for the last time, Department of Defense officials announced a new KC-X tanker draft request for proposal has gone out. The plan calls for 179 aerial refueling tankers to replace the half-century old KC-135. The new KC-X will also augment the airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers and medical patients in a secondary role.
With the KC-X announcement, Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, the AMC commander, was glad to hear the news.
"This is a great day not only for Air Mobility Command, which operates our nation's fleet of aerial refueling aircraft, but also for our country as this is a capability we critically need," he said. "As a warfighter, I'm glad to see this day come."
As the KC-X process continues, officials said AMC's challenge will be to continue meeting a steep requirement of worldwide air refueling needs by the Air Force and its joint and coalition partners. That job falls to the aircrew, maintenance and other support personnel.
The KC-135 fleet currently maintains an 80 percent mission capable rate, officials from AMC's Logistics Directorate reported. For each hour of flight of a KC-135, it requires an average of seven to eight man-hours of maintenance. The KC-135E sent to Sheppard AFB to train maintenance Airmen helps in preparing new maintainers to meet this effort.
In the Air Force, every time a KC-135 mission is flown, it requires a crew chief and two assistants to inspect the plane for repairs. When something needs repaired, a specialist is called in. Currently, the top KC-135 systems incurring the most maintenance man-hours in the field are the fuel tank systems, auxiliary power units, flight controls and engine instruments.
Another item to consider is every year, approximately 72 KC-135s go through Air Force Materiel Command's depot maintenance with a number of age-related issues needing to be addressed. KC-135 systems and maintenance managers said this is causing the days in depot to grow. Planners also note that the older the KC-135s get, the more resources in time, manpower and money it will takes to fix them.
AMC projections show that in the next 15 to 30 years, there will be an anticipated increase in planned depot maintenance for KC-135s. This will include rewiring, reskinning, corrosion control and other structural maintenance as well as overhauling flight controls and upgrading aging analog systems in the aircraft. That extra maintenance could increase annual costs anywhere from $2 billion to $6 billion.
While some retired KC-135Es are set up for training at Sheppard AFB, others are set aside for parts at the "boneyard" at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.
"It (the aircraft) may be here for another 15 to 20 years as we harvest parts off it," said Col. Tom Schneider, the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group commander. "We are going to put this aircraft to good use. It will go into storage, which means it will be eligible for parts withdrawal to keep the rest of the fleet flying."
Officials are confident they can keep the worldwide air refueling mission going with the KC-135R and KC-10 Extender fleet. However, they also are fervently awaiting the new tanker.
The time is now to move on with this program, said General Lichte of the Air Force's No. 1 procurement priority. This is a critical commitment to recapitalize a key aircraft supporting the national military strategy.
Air Show at MCAS Miramar Awes the Community
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Thomas E. Coffman,
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar opened its gates to the community to celebrate "A Salute to Teamwork," air show Oct. 2-4.
All branches of the United States military participated in what has become not just an air show, but a joint forces community outreach.
Navy divers stationed at Naval Station San Diego were a big splash with the kids. Throwing Nerf footballs, commemorative coins and splashing water were all part of their display. The biggest spectacle was when the kids could write notes on the glass with grease pencils to the divers, who would respond back under water in the same manner.
"It's hard writing backwards while chatting with the divers," said Nicole Potvin of Redondo, Calif. "But it's the best part of the air show."
Based in Fort Bragg, N.C., The Golden Knights invite all branches of the U.S. military to try out for the Golden Knights. Once accepted, they are crossed over to the Army.
"It's my first year on the team, and it is an honor to represent all the soldiers of the U.S. Army on our 50th anniversary," said Sgt. Rachel Medley of Eureka California. "We have Marines and Air Force members that have crossed over specifically to serve with the Golden Knights. One of the requirements before trying out is having logged over 150 free fall jumps."
Another display in full force was the Virtual Army Experience. Requiring four semi trailers and a large staff to run, it was comparable with any popular theme park.
"The experience was developed so the public could see firsthand with a high degree of realistic representation what life in a combat zone is like," said Sgt. Michael Morphis currently attached to San Diego Recruiting Company. One element of the tour included the unseen element, the hidden sniper.
With just three days left on tour in Iraq, Morphis recalls waking up on the way to an Army hospital in Germany. Morphis was awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in action.
The Virtual Army Experience concluded with a slide presentation of real life heroes and the Silver Stars and Purple Hearts they proudly earned in defense of their country. The participants realized that the people giving the tour they just experienced were these great heroes.
The most anticipated part of the air show was the performance of a team that has been performing for crowds all over the world since 1946. Home-based at
Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., and flying the F/A-18 Hornet, the Blue Angels consist of U.S. Navy and Marine Aviators, accompanied by the all-Marine Corps crew of the C-130T Hercules, known as Fat Albert. The team performed various displays of close formation aerial acrobatics and high speed head to head maneuvers. Fat Albert performed one aspect of its display for the last time, its jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) capability by lighting up the night sky with blazing rockets boosting the aircraft at a 45 degree angle on takeoff.
Hundreds of thousands of spectators gazed skyward as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army parachute team Golden Knights and the Canadian Snow Birds, and highlighted the aerial displays.
Marine Corps Air Station is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and over 10,000 Marines and Sailors on constant rotation in support of combat operations all over the world.
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar opened its gates to the community to celebrate "A Salute to Teamwork," air show Oct. 2-4.
All branches of the United States military participated in what has become not just an air show, but a joint forces community outreach.
Navy divers stationed at Naval Station San Diego were a big splash with the kids. Throwing Nerf footballs, commemorative coins and splashing water were all part of their display. The biggest spectacle was when the kids could write notes on the glass with grease pencils to the divers, who would respond back under water in the same manner.
"It's hard writing backwards while chatting with the divers," said Nicole Potvin of Redondo, Calif. "But it's the best part of the air show."
Based in Fort Bragg, N.C., The Golden Knights invite all branches of the U.S. military to try out for the Golden Knights. Once accepted, they are crossed over to the Army.
"It's my first year on the team, and it is an honor to represent all the soldiers of the U.S. Army on our 50th anniversary," said Sgt. Rachel Medley of Eureka California. "We have Marines and Air Force members that have crossed over specifically to serve with the Golden Knights. One of the requirements before trying out is having logged over 150 free fall jumps."
Another display in full force was the Virtual Army Experience. Requiring four semi trailers and a large staff to run, it was comparable with any popular theme park.
"The experience was developed so the public could see firsthand with a high degree of realistic representation what life in a combat zone is like," said Sgt. Michael Morphis currently attached to San Diego Recruiting Company. One element of the tour included the unseen element, the hidden sniper.
With just three days left on tour in Iraq, Morphis recalls waking up on the way to an Army hospital in Germany. Morphis was awarded the Purple Heart for being wounded in action.
The Virtual Army Experience concluded with a slide presentation of real life heroes and the Silver Stars and Purple Hearts they proudly earned in defense of their country. The participants realized that the people giving the tour they just experienced were these great heroes.
The most anticipated part of the air show was the performance of a team that has been performing for crowds all over the world since 1946. Home-based at
Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla., and flying the F/A-18 Hornet, the Blue Angels consist of U.S. Navy and Marine Aviators, accompanied by the all-Marine Corps crew of the C-130T Hercules, known as Fat Albert. The team performed various displays of close formation aerial acrobatics and high speed head to head maneuvers. Fat Albert performed one aspect of its display for the last time, its jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) capability by lighting up the night sky with blazing rockets boosting the aircraft at a 45 degree angle on takeoff.
Hundreds of thousands of spectators gazed skyward as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army parachute team Golden Knights and the Canadian Snow Birds, and highlighted the aerial displays.
Marine Corps Air Station is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, and over 10,000 Marines and Sailors on constant rotation in support of combat operations all over the world.
Monday, October 05, 2009
Cocoa Beach 2009 Airshow Report
An anonymous source passes along the following report for the 2009 Cocoa Beach Florida airshow. Thanks to this member of the MMP team for sharing this information.
118.9000 FAA Space Coast Regional Tower (SABER, VIPER recovery)
122.4750 USAF Heritage flight air-air (SABER-VIPER)
123.1500 Airshow Discrete (also possible PA feed)
123.4750 USA Golden Knights air-ground
124.5750 USAF Air Boss / Patrick Tower
128.5500 NASA Tower (C-17A HIRE 81 recovery)
132.6500 FAA Orlando Approach
157.1000 Marine Channel 22A 920th RQW Demo KING or JOLLY with GONDOLA CHARLIE
251.9000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY-KING air-air
255.5000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY
384.5500 USAF VIPER Demo
118.9000 FAA Space Coast Regional Tower (SABER, VIPER recovery)
122.4750 USAF Heritage flight air-air (SABER-VIPER)
123.1500 Airshow Discrete (also possible PA feed)
123.4750 USA Golden Knights air-ground
124.5750 USAF Air Boss / Patrick Tower
128.5500 NASA Tower (C-17A HIRE 81 recovery)
132.6500 FAA Orlando Approach
157.1000 Marine Channel 22A 920th RQW Demo KING or JOLLY with GONDOLA CHARLIE
251.9000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY-KING air-air
255.5000 USAF Patrick AFB 920th RQW Demo JOLLY
384.5500 USAF VIPER Demo
USS Nashville (LPD 13) is decommissioned.
It is a sad day. The USS Nashville LPD-13 has been decommissioned. For more
click here for an USN video report.
click here for an USN video report.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Heavy Israeli Air Force Traffic Monitored
Michael in Paris on the UDXF group is reporting this morning heavy traffic from Israeli Air Force units on 8847.o kHz. Traffic ran for over one hour and consisted of numerous callsigns with encrypted ? messages.
USS Cole Prepares for Joint Warrior
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker, Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs
ABOARD USS COLE , At Sea (NNS) -- The crew aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) is conducting around-the-clock training to prepare for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009, which will qualify the ship for their next deployment.
Joint Warrior is a U.K.-led multiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployments.
The exercise, which is scheduled from Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet's three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fleet operations to achieve mission, providing ready maritime forces for global assignment, and teaming with allies and partners in execution of the maritime strategy.
Cole has been training since May, initially learning NATO policies and building charts, templates, and overlays for navigation, air space and operation areas. The entire crew is pulling together to ensure the ship is ready to react to whatever scenarios they will encounter during the exercise.
"Right now we are training to become a cohesive team," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Harrold Tejeda, from the Dominican Republic.
"The training we are doing now and the exercise we are preparing for will help us with our upcoming deployment," said Cole's Assistant Operations Officer Chief Warrant Officer Bryan Begley. "We are training on how to react to small attack vessels, conduct boarding operations, defend merchant shipping traffic, and maintain control of the air space in the maritime environment during our real-life operations."
Joint Warrior also allows crew members to earn qualifications before deployment.
"During this exercise there will be a lot of activities going on in such a short amount of time," said Tejeda. "It's a great way for the crew to observe and be involved with these real-life situations."
Tejeda said the junior enlisted crew members are very willing to learn and look forward to taking advantage of all the operations the exercise has to offer.
Destroyer Squadron 24 Commodore Capt. John Kersh addressed the crew to thank them for the effort they have shown in preparation for the exercise.
"You continue to do well as we conduct our trans-Atlantic crossing. The ship has done so well and you have worked so well as a team."
ABOARD USS COLE , At Sea (NNS) -- The crew aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) is conducting around-the-clock training to prepare for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009, which will qualify the ship for their next deployment.
Joint Warrior is a U.K.-led multiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployments.
The exercise, which is scheduled from Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet's three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fleet operations to achieve mission, providing ready maritime forces for global assignment, and teaming with allies and partners in execution of the maritime strategy.
Cole has been training since May, initially learning NATO policies and building charts, templates, and overlays for navigation, air space and operation areas. The entire crew is pulling together to ensure the ship is ready to react to whatever scenarios they will encounter during the exercise.
"Right now we are training to become a cohesive team," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Harrold Tejeda, from the Dominican Republic.
"The training we are doing now and the exercise we are preparing for will help us with our upcoming deployment," said Cole's Assistant Operations Officer Chief Warrant Officer Bryan Begley. "We are training on how to react to small attack vessels, conduct boarding operations, defend merchant shipping traffic, and maintain control of the air space in the maritime environment during our real-life operations."
Joint Warrior also allows crew members to earn qualifications before deployment.
"During this exercise there will be a lot of activities going on in such a short amount of time," said Tejeda. "It's a great way for the crew to observe and be involved with these real-life situations."
Tejeda said the junior enlisted crew members are very willing to learn and look forward to taking advantage of all the operations the exercise has to offer.
Destroyer Squadron 24 Commodore Capt. John Kersh addressed the crew to thank them for the effort they have shown in preparation for the exercise.
"You continue to do well as we conduct our trans-Atlantic crossing. The ship has done so well and you have worked so well as a team."
Saturday, October 03, 2009
104th FW to Standup for Alert Duty
Ken on the Milcom newsgroup reported the following today:
"According to the 104th Fighter Wing's monthly publication Airscoop (October 2009), the unit will stand up an alert force by February 15, 2010 to support Operation Noble Eagle and Homeland Defense.
Prior issues of the Airscoop can be found at the unit's website: http://www.104fw.ang.af.mil/
"According to the 104th Fighter Wing's monthly publication Airscoop (October 2009), the unit will stand up an alert force by February 15, 2010 to support Operation Noble Eagle and Homeland Defense.
Prior issues of the Airscoop can be found at the unit's website: http://www.104fw.ang.af.mil/
USS Williams Gets Underway for 5th Fleet
The guided-missisle destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) prepares to go underway after a routine port visit to Crete. James E. Williams is homeported in Norfolk and has been on a scheduled six-month deployment since April, operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley/Released)
Navy Establishes Carrier Strike Group 1
An F/A-18E Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 prepares to land on USS Carl Vinson's (CVN 70) flight deck during routine flight operations. Carl Vinson is underway conducting flight deck certification after the completion of its scheduled refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. The RCOH was an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year life cycle. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Rowe/Released)SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy formally established Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 in San Diego October 1, 2009. The flagship for CSG 1 will be the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), currently homeported in Newport News, Va. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1, USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) will round out the strike group.
Commanded by Rear Adm. Ted "Twig" Branch, CSG 1 will be a San Diego-based operational command and will report to Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet.
"We are excited by the opportunity to establish this new command and bring the power of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group online in support of our nation's defense," said Branch. "I'm also very happy to bring this capability, along with the men and women who make it possible, to the great city of San Diego."
Carrier Strike Group 1's first mission is expected to be a transit around South America in the spring of 2010 as Vinson relocates to its new homeport of San Diego.
In support of the nation's maritime strategy, CSG-1 will help promote regional partnerships, deter crisis, project power, promote maritime security, and provide humanitarian assistance or disaster relief within the U.S. Pacific Fleet's 100 million square-mile area of operations.
The Navy took redelivery of Vinson July 11, 2009, following the successful completion of the ship's midlife refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH).
USS Carl Vinson is the third Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to complete RCOH at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News and is undergoing a four-month post-refueling shipyard maintenance period to prepare for its transit to San Diego.
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