Tin Can Sailors - The National Association of Destroyer Veterans

Tin Can Sailors


News From Today's Navy

(Last updated 01/27/12)

27 Jan 12	Stennis Strike Group Visits Singapore
23 Jan 12	Headlines From Around the Fleet
22 Jan 12	USS Halsey Gives Aid to Yemeni Dhow
20 Jan 12	Haney Assumes Command of U.S. Pacific Fleet
20 Jan 12	US Naval Observatory Donates Rare Book to Library of Congress
20 Jan 12	Adm. Cecil Haney, left, salutes Adm. Patrick M. Walsh as Haney relieves Walsh as U.S. Pacific Fleet commander.
20 Jan 12	USS Nitze Sailors Practice VBSS Operations
20 Jan 12	CNO Announces Voluntary Early Retirement Plan for ERB Affected Sailors
20 Jan 12	CNO Sees Hawaii as 'Gateway' to Operate Forward
19 Jan 12	Stennis Strike Group Enters 7th Fleet Area of Operations
19 Jan 12	Navy to Phase Out SEAL LDO Designator; USS Houston Arrives at New Homeport; USS Dewey Assists Stranded Iranian Fisherman; Secretary of the Navy Presents Award to World War II Veteran
19 Jan 12	USS Porter Completes Live-Fire Exercise
19 Jan 12	Porter's VBSS Team Prepares for Deployment
19 Jan 12	NAVSUP Command Master Chief Applauds WWII Veteran for Heroic Actions
19 Jan 12	A tug boat from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka pushes the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) from the pier as the ship gets underway.
18 Jan 12	Navy Solar Farm Construction Underway
18 Jan 12	Dewey Aids Sinking Iranian Fishing Dhow
18 Jan 12	Better Chow, Cooked from Scratch: Navy Food Management Team in Action
18 Jan 12	Dolphins swim in front of a rigid-hull inflatable boat as Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) participate in a visit, board, search and seizure exercise.
29 Dec 11	The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) receives fuel at two fueling stations.
28 Dec 11	Electronics Technician 1st Class James Kyne leads a team of Sailors and U.S. Coast Guardsmen around the weather decks during a training exercise.
27 Dec 11	Headlines From Around the Fleet
26 Dec 11	Future is Bright for ONR's Lightweight, Sun-Powered Generator
24 Dec 11	Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Victor Hernandez, assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91), directs an SA330J Puma helicopter.
22 Dec 11	Russell Sailor Receives Arleigh Burke Award
21 Dec 11	The guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) is decorated with Christmas lights at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
21 Dec 11	Truman Installs Port Anchor Chain
21 Dec 11	Unknown Service Members Remains Return to Hawaii
21 Dec 11	Headlines From Around the Fleet
21 Dec 11	USS Pinckney Disrupts Piracy
20 Dec 11	Students Go Wassailing Aboard Navy Ships in Japan
20 Dec 11	Therapy Dogs Help Patients at Walter Reed Military Medical Center
20 Dec 11	USS John C. Stennis Launches Navy's Final Air Mission Over Iraq
19 Dec 11	USNS Mercy Celebrates 25 Years of Service
19 Dec 11	Headlines From Around the Fleet
17 Dec 11	U.S. Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, right, tours a cemetery on the shores of Tripoli, Libya.
17 Dec 11	Navy Passes "Old Salt" Award
15 Dec 11	LCS Remote Minehunting System Reaches Reliability Milestone
15 Dec 11	Navy Updates Purple Heart Award Policy
14 Dec 11	Sailors aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts hoist the American flag.
14 Dec 11	USS Samuel B. Roberts Completes Six-Month Deployment
14 Dec 11	Sailor Awarded Soldiers Medal for Heroism
13 Dec 11	USS Nitze's Damage Control Program Gets a Makeover
10 Dec 11	USS Mitscher Returns to Homeport

US-Indonesian Navy Exercise Highlights Joint At-Sea Training
Release Date: 5/25/2011 3:02:00 PM

From Task Group 73.1 Public Affairs

JAKARTA, Indonesia (NNS) -- Three U.S. Navy ships arrived in Jakarta, Indonesia, May 25 for the beginning of the 17th annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia exercise.

The first phase of CARAT features events ashore, such as engineering and damage control training exchanges, joint medical, dental and civic action projects and joint community service projects at local schools.

Stennis Strike Group Visits Singapore

By John C. Stennis Strike Group Public Affairs

CHANGI, Sigapore – Ships from the John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG), including the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), and guided missile destroyers USS Dewey (DDG 105) and USS Pinckney (DDG 91), arrived in Singapore for a scheduled port visit Jan. 26.

“The U.S. Navy has been visiting Singapore for more than 100 years,” said Rear Adm. Craig Faller, commander of the JCSSG. “They are one of our closest partners in the region and an invaluable ally in our counter-terrorism and maritime security efforts.”

While in port the ships plan to host a formal reception for local and foreign dignitaries and conduct various community service projects while Stennis’ Morale, Welfare and Recreation program is offering a variety of local tours and activities to Sailors as well as trips to neighboring islands.

“This is one of the most diverse places in the world,” said Lt. Cmdr. Tiffany Dodson, a medical officer aboard Stennis. “I’m really looking forward to experiencing the many cultures here, as well as trying the laksa.”

The JCSSG is currently deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations conducting maritime security operations and cooperative engagements with regional partners.

The strike group consists of Stennis, aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, Mobile Bay, and ships from Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21.

USS Halsey Gives Aid to Yemeni Dhow
Release Date: 1/22/2012 12:51:00 PM

From Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs

USS HALSEY, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Halsey (DDG 97) responded to a call of distress from M/V Albrouj, a Yemeni dhow that was en route to Somalia from Yemen, while the U.S. ship was conducting helicopter operations in the Gulf of Aden, Jan. 19.

The guided-missile destroyer Halsey, which was two hours away from the position of the dhow, immediately responded to the distress call. The Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 49 air crew quickly relayed the vessel's position to Halsey. The ship responded quickly. Upon arriving on the scene, the ship launched two rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB's) to provide assistance. Two electricians from Halsey conducted an investigation along with Albrouj's boat engineer, and discovered a faulty alternator and four dead batteries. The ship provided the dhow with two batteries to allow the crew to safely continue their voyage to Somalia.

"We quickly realized that the problem lay with the alternator and that the batteries were being drained extremely fast," said Electrician's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Clinton D. Easley, one of the Halsey electricians who boarded the Yemen dhow. "By providing them with a couple of spare batteries that we had onboard, the problem was solved and the dhow was quickly on its way."

"All mariners who sail the oceans should respond quickly to a fellow mariner's distress call. The sea can be an unforgiving place, when your vessel is adrift and without power," said Commodore Aage Buur Jensen from Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 151. "I'm very pleased with the swift assistance that USS Halsey rendered on this occasion."

Halsey is currently the flagship of CTF-151 conducting counter piracy and maritime security operations.

Halsey has recently assumed the role of flagship to Commodore Aage Buur Jensen, Royal Danish navy and his multinational CTF-151 command staff. CTF-151 transferred command from the Pakistani navy who were stationed aboard the USS Kidd (DDG 100).

CTF-151 is one of three task forces assigned to combined maritime forces. Established in February 2002, the Task Force's key mission is to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. It protects and defends the legitimate use of the ocean by fisherman and merchants, and stands ready to assist any mariner in distress.

Haney Assumes Command of U.S. Pacific Fleet
Release Date: 1/20/2012 11:44:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Amanda Dunford, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Adm. Cecil D. Haney, former deputy of the U.S. Strategic Command, relieved Adm. Patrick M. Walsh as commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet during a change of command ceremony onboard Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Jan. 20.

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert presided over the ceremony and praised Walsh for his service in the Navy and the impact his leadership had on the command.

"He's had a marvelous career. He knows what it means to take care of a family, he knows what it means to take care of a command, and he's encouraged his staff to do the same," said Greenert to a crowd of almost 900 attendees. "He's (Walsh) all about being ready, he's harnessed that Pacific Fleet teamwork, the talent and resources."

Greenert also praised Walsh for his ability to foster strong international relationships. "Pat has been committed to the building and improving of our relationships in and around the Western Pacific."

Under Walsh's command, U.S. Pacific Fleet provided humanitarian relief for numerous countries struck by natural disasters including Operation Tomodachi, a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief effort conducted in response to the earthquake, tsunami and subsequent radiological crisis that impacted Japan in March 2011.

Commander, U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) Adm. Robert F. Willard praised Walsh for his work leading all U.S. military support efforts during Operation Tomodachi.

"As the magnitude of this epic disaster reached an unprecedented scale of any of our experience, my senior staff implored me to assign our senior-most joint warfighting commander to lead the U.S. response. That morning Adm. Pat Walsh assembled elements of his joint task force staff and prepared to depart for Japan," said Willard. "Everyday I observed Pat's organization, initiative, imagination and drive to provide Gen. Oriki (Japan Joint Staff) and his forces every service they required, including nuclear engineering expertise on an unprecedented scale. Such leadership will never be forgotten in Japan nor in the Pacific Fleet. That is the legacy of Admiral Pat "Sponge" Walsh."

"In this region, sea power is an essential element of national power," said Walsh. "In the Pacific Century, sea power resumes its traditional role in the sea-lines of communication. It's an instrument of peace; it's an instrument of stability; it's a protector of trade and development."

He warned that other nations are gauging our commitment, particularly in light of budget constraints.

"They are watching with keen interest the effect of the U.S. economic challenges, the strain of more than a decade of war on the Navy's ability to remain forward, to remain engaged and ready," said Walsh.

But he stressed that the Navy has overcome such challenges before and remains committed to maintaining regional stability.

"Let's be very clear: we have been here before," said Walsh. "We have faced austere economic cycles in the past. And while the American public has kept faith with the Navy, they have not changed their view of our mission or their expectations of our response to crisis conditions."

Walsh, who is retiring after 34 years in the Navy, is confident in Haney's capabilities and leadership.

"If ever there were a person who's ready for the challenge to assume command of the Pacific Fleet with all its complexities, with all of its challenges and who has worked and held critical leadership positions at every level, it's Cecil Haney," said Walsh.

After reading his orders and assuming command, Haney thanked "our international allies and partners and our local community for (their) enduring relationship with the U.S. Navy" and expressed enthusiasm about his tour at Pacific Fleet.

"I look forward to getting acquainted with you and building on the foundation of trust and mutual respect that Adm. Walsh has nurtured," Haney said. "The U.S. Navy has been a dutiful servant of the nation and its people, and a champion of freedom, security and prosperity abroad. In the Pacific, our history is rich and we have played an integral role in furthering those principles to better the lives of others."

Haney said he will work with the other military services to support U.S. Pacific Command to enhance "maritime security and freedom of the seas with the talented men and women of Pacific Fleet and our allies and partners."

Haney said he is "most grateful to Adm. Walsh for his unparalleled leadership of Pacific Fleet and tireless efforts strengthening critical ties to enhance security of the region" as well as the Sailors "headquartered here and on station across the Pacific (who) performed remarkably across a wide spectrum of our Navy's mission areas."

Haney is the 33rd naval officer to command the Pacific Fleet since it was established in February 1941 with headquarters at Pearl Harbor. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanic Engineering, Haney is also a recipient of the Vice Admiral James Stockdale Leadership Award for 1998.

The world's largest fleet command, U.S. Pacific Fleet encompasses 100 million square miles from the west coast of the United States into the Indian Ocean. The Pacific Fleet consists of approximately 180 ships, nearly 2,000 aircraft and 125,000 Sailors, Marines and Civilians. U.S. Pacific Fleet staff report administratively to the CNO and operationally to U.S. Pacific Command, whose headquarters are at Camp H.M. Smith.

US Naval Observatory Donates Rare Book to Library of Congress
Release Date: 1/20/2012 8:08:00 PM

By Geoff Chester, U.S. Naval Observatory Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Naval Observatory's (USNO) James M. Gilliss Library donated a copy of a rare book to the Thomas Jefferson collection at the Library of Congress Jan. 20.

Rear Adm. Jonathan White, commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command (CNMOC), presented a Latin version of Sur la Figure de la Terre, written by the 18th century French mathematician and philosopher Pierre-Louis Moreau de Maupertuis, to Dr. James H. Billington, the librarian of Congress to help the library recreate its collection of books that were once owned by Thomas Jefferson.

While serving as the U.S. ambassador in Paris in 1789, Jefferson ordered a copy of Maupertuis' Latin version, Figura Telluris de Maupertuis, which was published in Leipzig, Germany in 1742. It was one of a number of books he selected from a catalogue issued by a book seller in Strasbourg, Armand Koenig.

The book was ordered June 29, 1789. It was sent to Jefferson and was included in a bill from Koenig dated July 17. It was entered without price by Jefferson in his undated manuscript library catalogue.

In 1815, Jefferson sold his books to the Library of Congress to restart its collection after the burning of the original library in the War of 1812. His library - now on display in the Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress - was considered one of the finest in the United States at the time.

Over the years the Library of Congress' copy of Figura Telluris de Maupertuis was lost. The USNO library has two copies of the work, the original French edition printed in 1738, and the Latin version from 1742. Lt. James M. Gilliss purchased the French version and a copy of Maupertuis' Astronomie Nautique in 1843 in Paris. USNO has no record of when the Latin version was purchased.

The USNO library was established in 1842 with an $800 allotment from the $25,000 appropriation which funded the observatory's first permanent home in Washington's Foggy Bottom district. Today it holds more than 80,000 titles and is considered to be one of the world's premier astronomical libraries.

USNO's mission includes determining the positions and motions of the Earth, sun, moon, planets, stars and other celestial objects, providing astronomical data; determining precise time; measuring the Earth's rotation; and maintaining the master clock for the United States.

USS Nitze Sailors Practice VBSS Operations
Release Date: 1/20/2012 11:53:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs

USS NITZE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) participated in a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training exercise, Jan. 18.

The scenario tested the ability of the VBSS team to conduct a boarding after pirates attacked a vessel.

"They hit us hard," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Jehovani Berrocales, the assistant boarding officer for the VBSS team. "The scenario was difficult. This proves we need to be ready for anything."

The VBSS team boarded a training ship with personnel playing the role of foreign sailors to give the team a sense of what it may be like to actually board another vessel.

"We usually board the ships to verify their paperwork and documentation but also to make sure they do not have any contraband or weapons onboard," said Chief Fire Controlman Matthew Bergroschtje, boarding officer for the VBSS team.

In this case, a mock distress call was received from the training vessel and the VBSS team responded.

"When it happens for real, it is usually just like the training," said Berrocales.

After a search of the vessel, there were no pirates found remaining aboard.

"We need to be able to think on our feet," said Berrocales. "If there are non-compliant people, we need to know what to do immediately."

In most cases, the VBSS teams visit the other vessel to give them supplies and check documentation.

"Our guys are gaining experience and they are taking the training seriously," said Bergroschtje. "We need to get on the other vessel and help the people who need help."

"We will take them food, water and medical supplies," said Berrocales. "It is important to have a good relationship with the local boats."

At the end of the event, the team accomplished their goals.

"Everyone did really well," said Bergroschtje. "There are always areas to improve in but all major objectives were met."

The crew of the training vessel in the scenario was taken care of and the VBSS team helped restore power and operations to the vessel.

"It is very intense training," said Berrocales. "You don't know how you will react until you are in the situation and our guys did very well."

Nitze is part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, which is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is designed to bring every part of a strike group together to work effectively and efficiently as one cohesive unit, ensuring overall readiness prior to regular deployment. Click here for photo.

CNO Sees Hawaii as 'Gateway' to Operate Forward
Release Date: 1/20/2012 5:05:00 AM

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

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The chief of naval operations (CNO) appeared on local Fox affiliate television station KHON2's Wake Up 2day morning show in Honolulu, Jan. 19.

CNO Adm. Jonathan Greenert talked to news anchor Olena Heu about the strategic importance of Hawaii and the Pacific region.

"Hawaii is really the gateway to the western Pacific," said Greenert. "Here in Hawaii, you have a hospital, a shipyard. You have ships, aircraft, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Coast Guard and Airmen. Really, this is our gateway. It is probably the most important strategic base for the western Pacific, which is the centerpiece of our strategy."

In the morning show, Heu asked how potential budget cuts will impact the Navy and specifically the Navy in Hawaii. Greenert provided no details but emphasized the strategic importance of Asia Pacific and of Hawaii as a base to operate from.

"It's a matter of where the proper investments should be to really align with our strategy," adding, "Hawaii and the Pacific are key to our strategy and that will be reflected in the budget."

Adm. and Mrs. Darleen Greenert arrived in Hawaii, Jan. 18, to meet with Sailors and their families and to participate in the U.S. Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) change of command ceremony, Jan. 20. Adm. Cecil Haney, former deputy of U.S. Strategic Command, will be replacing Adm. Patrick Walsh as PACFLT commander.

On Thursday morning, Darleen Greenert visited Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) and toured the Center Drive Child Development Center with Joint Base Commander Capt. Jeff James. She also visited the Ford Island Community Center and was invited to visit the homes of several military families, where she discussed quality of life issues.

After Adm. Greenert's morning show, the CNO held an All Hands Call with more than 500 Sailors at Sharkey Theater on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

"We are so lucky to have a generation who give much more than themselves to a larger institution, and we have a generation of people who are dedicated to our country," said Greenert. "I just want to say thank you to them and thank you to the people of Hawaii for supporting these Sailors and their families. They are truly the land of Aloha. It's a privilege to be here."

With a world map as a backdrop, Greenert fielded questions and talked about the Navy's overall strategy not only in the Pacific region but to the entire world. He said that at any given time, there are about 100 ships forward deployed around the world, more than half of which are in the Pacific region.

"The focus of the Navy in the future is the Asia Pacific region - where you are," said Greenert.

Stennis Strike Group Enters 7th Fleet Area of Operations
Release Date: 1/19/2012 9:31:00 AM

From John C. Stennis Strike Group Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) entered the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations(AOO) Jan. 19 after nearly three months supporting Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF) and New Dawn (OND), as well as maritime security operations and anti-piracy efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO.

While operating in the seas surrounding the Arabian Peninsula, JCSSG played a pivotal role in the drawdown of U.S. forces in Iraq and provided aviation support to coalition ground troops in Afghanistan.

After conducting weeks of command and control support operations to coalition forces in OND, an E-2C Hawkeye from the "Golden Hawks" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 112 embarked aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) flew the last Navy aviation mission over Iraq Dec. 18.

"Flying the last Navy air mission in Iraq was a historic achievement for all of us," said Capt. Dale Horan, commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 embarked aboard Stennis, the flag ship of the strike group.

"Everyone in this strike group played a part in making that happen and it's a part of history we will always share," Horan said.

In January, after transitioning from OND to supporting operations in Afghanistan, JCSSG forces thwarted an attempted pirate attack on a Bahamian-flagged cargo vessel, then freed a group of Iranian mariners held captive by the same crew of suspected pirates.

"This was a well-executed display of the mutli-mission capability of the carrier strike group and a testament to the professionalism of our Sailors," said Stennis' Command Master Chief Stanley Jewett.

In the 7th Fleet AOO, the strike group plans to conduct several readiness exercises with partner countries in the region as well as visits to Singapore and the Philippines before preparing to head back to the United States.

"The manner in which we've conducted ourselves and executed our mission is indicative of the character of our Sailors and the spirit of our country," said JCSSG commander, Rear Adm. Craig Faller. "While we have much to accomplish before returning home, and I'm confident that we will finish our deployment with the same level of professionalism and personal conduct we've displayed throughout."

The JCSSG consists of Stennis, the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), aircraft from CVW 9, and guided missile destroyers USS Pinckney (DDG 91), USS Kidd (DDG 100), USS Dewey (DDG 105), and USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) from Destroyer Squadron 21.

Navy Solar Farm Construction Underway
Release Date: 1/18/2012 8:52:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Cassatt, Public Affairs Center San Diego

CHINA LAKE, Calif. (NNS) -- The Navy made another leap into renewable energy integration Jan. 18 with groundbreaking on a new 118 acre solar farm in China Lake, Calif.

Construction of a SunPower Corporation 13.78 megawatt solar photovoltaic power system officially got underway at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake following a mid-morning ceremony at the sprawling weapons development base.

"This is the largest solar project in the Navy," said Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installation and Environment Jackalyne Pfannenstiel. "It demonstrates tangible progress toward national energy independence and reaching the Department of the Navy's energy goals."

SunPower's Oasis Power Plant product, a fully-integrated, modular solar block consisting of 31,680 solar panels, is expected to generate more than 30 percent of NAWS China Lake's annual energy load.

"The weapons division here is the consumer, and with that consumption requirement comes responsibility," said Rear Adm. Mat Winter, commander, Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division.

"This project gives us the opportunity as the major consumer of the energy to look into our own processes and practices," Winter said. "As we are more efficient in executing and continuing to do our mission it frees up resources for us to provide to our war fighter."

The solar farm integration, which is made possible through a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA), will allow the Navy to buy electricity below the retail utility rate and reduce costs by an estimated $13 million over the next 20 years.

The PPA involves no initial out-of-pocket expenses for the Navy and will provide increased energy independence and reliable, emission-free solar power to NAWS China Lake beginning at the end of this year.

"The Navy has a longstanding record of identifying energy and water conservation opportunities across our facilities," said Rear Adm. Dixon Smith, commander, Navy Region Southwest. "We are continuing to transform our culture from one of consumption to one focused on conservation."

NAWS China Lake's solar farm is representative of the Navy's energy initiative, laid out by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in 2009, which aspires to achieve 50 percent of the Navy's shore-based energy requirements produced by alternative sources by the year 2020.

"We face a global energy challenge, which is for us a national strategic imperative that we solve," said Capt. Clifford Maurer, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest commanding officer. "There was an extraordinary level of effort that went into market research, industry partnering, preparing complicated acquisition documentation, navigating complicated regulations and incentives, and doing technical analysis."

Under the 20-year federal solar PPA, SunPower will build, operate and maintain the solar power system that uses the company's high-efficiency solar panels, and which it guarantees through a 25-year warranty. SunPower has worked with federal agencies since 1999 and has installed more than 25 megawatts of solar power systems at government facilities, including solar power plants at Navy installations in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and Coronado, Calif.

"We are so honored to be here today," said Howard Wenger, president of SunPower. "It really is a testament to the commitment and leadership of many people in the Navy, and the base here in China Lake, that we are here today celebrating this very significant groundbreaking."

NAWS China Lake is located in the Western Mojave Desert region of California. The installation is the Navy's largest single landholding, representing 85 percent of the Navy's land for research, development, acquisition, testing and evaluation of weapons systems. The two ranges and main site of NAWS China Lake cover more than 1.1 million acres, an area larger than the state of Rhode Island.

USS Porter Completes Live-Fire Exercise
Release Date: 1/19/2012 1:00:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse L. Gonzalez, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs

USS PORTER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) successfully completed a live-fire exercise of its entire array of gun weapon systems while underway conducting its composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Jan. 17.

Porter fired 47 blank load and powder rounds plus three illumination rounds from the MK-45 5-inch/54 caliber lightweight gun at a moving target that was approximately four nautical miles away, said Ensign Lauren M. Chatmas, the ship's ordnance officer.

Porter also successfully fired 55 rounds from the MK-38 25mm machine gun, 300 rounds from the M2 .50 caliber machine guns, 600 rounds from the M240 machine guns and 200 rounds from the MK-15 20mm close-in weapons system (CIWS), said Chatmas.

"Each station is manned by a number of qualified individuals," said Chatmas. "For the M240 machine guns, .50 caliber machine guns and the MK-38 25mm machine gun, there is at least two Sailors per station."

According to Chatmas, most Sailors assigned to the gun mounts are gunner's mates and fire controlmen, but there are also some other qualified rates, such as sonar technician (surface). The MK-45 5-inch/54 caliber lightweight gun typically requires four gunner's mates to man the gun control computers and other equipment, as well as a crew of Sailors in the projectile magazine to reload the weapon if necessary, said Chatmas.

"There is also a fire controlman stationed in combat at the Mk-46 Optical Sight System to visually lock on a target," said Chatmas. "We currently have six crew-served weapons mounts that have weapons on them, and more mounts that will be armed and manned while on deployment."

Live-fire training events are important to improve crew proficiency at countering smaller sized, asymmetric threats. The maneuverability of the NAVAIR remote-controlled targets and having the ship moving at 15 knots presents a more realistic and challenging training opportunity, said Cmdr. Martin F. Arriola, Porter's commanding officer.

"For the Sailors, the immediate feedback of seeing rounds impact maneuvering targets is immeasurably important and builds tremendous confidence," said Arriola.

Arriola said the importance of well-trained Sailors is critical to the successful completion of any mission. The ability to repeatedly and successfully execute tasking when the call comes is probably the most valuable outcome of any training.

"I am proud to serve with the men and women that make up "Team Porter" because they are professionals of the highest caliber who have proven time and time again that they are ready for any challenge," said Arriola.

Porter's VBSS Team Prepares for Deployment
Release Date: 1/19/2012 10:10:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse L. Gonzalez, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS PORTER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) conducted training while underway Jan. 18.

Porter is underway in the Atlantic Ocean to better prepare for real-world threats it may encounter on deployment.

Maritime interception operations require VBSS teams to intercept and determine the nature of vessels of interest. VBSS teams will board and search these vessels to determine if the vessel is hostile, said Ensign Bo Doran, the VBSS officer aboard Porter.

"Training works to prepare the team mentally and physically for real-world events," said Doran. "The VBSS teams need to train in order to develop the proficiency necessary to carry out missions effectively."

The 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation are primarily where the VBSS team will combat trafficking and piracy.

Piracy and the threat of terrorist activity impede commerce between the U.S. and its allies, said Fire Controlman 1st Class Christian A. Echeverri, a senior member of Porter's VBSS team.

"In the Mediterranean we encounter a lot of trafficking of drugs, oil and sometimes even weapons," said Echeverri. "When we are in 5th Fleet we focus on piracy, protecting our allies' waterways and helping vessels in distress."

VBSS teams also establish positive relationships with local militaries. These relationships improve cooperation when there are reports of pirates or other illegal activities in the area.

Sailors must meet specific pre-requisites, including weapons qualifications, physical fitness standards and swimming proficiency before they join a VBSS team

"Serving on the VBSS team is a tremendous responsibility but it's a real honor and a privilege to be entrusted with such responsibility," Doran said.

Dewey Aids Sinking Iranian Fishing Dhow
Release Date: 1/18/2012 5:10:00 PM

By Ensign John Tanalega, USS Dewey Public Affairs

USS DEWEY, At Sea (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) rendered aid to the crew of a sinking Iranian fishing dhow in the central Arabian Sea, Jan. 18.

At 7:53 a.m. local time, an MH-60R Seahawk from the "Raptors" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 spotted the disabled fishing vessel, Al Mamsoor, with one person on board. The vessel was tethered to one of two other dhows nearby.

"Our first priority was to make sure that all the crew (of the fishing vessel) was safe," said Lt. Will Jourdan, pilot of the helicopter. "After we identified the vessel and reported it to back to the ship, we remained on scene."

Dewey travelled to Al Mamsoor quickly to assist the Iranian fishermen who had fled the sinking dhow and boarded the other dhows.

The destroyer's visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team was sent to communicate with the displaced crew members and determine their needs.

"Once we talked with their captain, it was clear that they needed food and water," said Lt. j.g. Jason Dawson, the VBSS team leader.

For more than two hours, the VBSS team provided food, water, medical and hygienic supplies, and confirmed that the dhow's crews did not need additional fuel.

While rendering aid, they learned that the Al Mamsoor crew fought flooding for three days before finally abandoning their vessel.

After ensuring the safety of the crew and providing approximately 150 pounds of supplies, the VBSS team departed the scene and returned to Dewey.

"I'm very proud of my team," said Dawson. "The crew of the dhow knew that we were there to help, and we did."

Dewey, part of Destroyer Squadron 21, is conducting maritime security operations while on a scheduled deployment with the John C. Stennis Strike Group.

The commander of the strike group, Rear Adm. Craig Faller, commented on Dewey's assistance to the Iranian mariners. "I am extremely proud of our John C. Stennis Strike Group Sailors for demonstrating once again their readiness to render life-saving assistance at sea."

Better Chow, Cooked from Scratch: Navy Food Management Team in Action
Release Date: 1/18/2012 9:52:00 PM

By Story by Candice Villarreal, NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- When NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) San Diego's Navy Food Management Team (NFMT) crossed the brow to depart USS Stockdale (DDG 106) Jan. 13, they knew the crew would be eating well.

NAVSUP FLC San Diego's NFMT visited the guided-missile destroyer for a four-day period to conduct a routine assessment for the ship's food service divisions.

The assessment - or "assist visit" - covered areas like sanitation practices, inventory procedures, record keeping and inspection. Unlike most shipboard assessments, however, there was an added incentive for the crew at the end: better meals, cooked from scratch.

"What we do is conduct our assessments, and then based on the results, we conduct specialized training in the areas we think could benefit them, but we always place a special emphasis on scratch cooking," said Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Pickins, the team's lead analyst.

Scratch cooking is a hands-on cooking style that uses fresh ingredients and recipes to create home-made meals that are individually crafted from start to finish. Due to the operational tempo and manpower restrictions in the Navy's galleys, daily menus often alternate between heat-and-serve dishes and freshly prepared selections.

"We look at the standard course menus with the culinary specialists and teach them how they can spice them up," said Pickins. "We focus on teaching them to cook from scratch as much as possible, and we'd like to see 50 percent of all meals prepared that way."

The team's goal is to enhance the skills of culinary specialists to provide better food service throughout the Navy's general messes. The NFMT is comprised of Sailors in culinary rates at pay grades at or above E-7 which, according to Pickins, ensures the trainers not only boast finely-tuned culinary skills, but also have the firsthand experience of running their own food service operations at sea and ashore.

Aboard Stockdale, NFMT trainers scanned the day's pre-planned menu of chicken chalupas, beef tacos, beef stir-fry and egg foo young and taught the Sailors to make each dish from scratch, rather by than using heat-and-serve alternatives. The end result: wholesome, hearty meals, freshly crafted and seasoned to perfection.

"Stockdale received us very well," said Pickins. "The Sailors were very receptive to the training we provided and I think they enjoyed the meals they created. When we train them one day and we return to see them applying those skills the next day, we consider that a success."

The Navy Food Management Team conducts assist visits for commands across the west coast every 18 months to provide CS-types with both refresher and advanced training.

"We're providing Sailors with a skill, and in the end it makes a big difference throughout the fleet," said Pickins. "Taking something out of a box and heating it up is not a skill, and that's not the kind of cooking that will make them competitive when they get out of the Navy and go into the private sector. When culinary specialists take scratch cooking skills and put them to work, everybody benefits and morale improves. The cooks take more pride in what they do and Sailors on the mess decks get to enjoy some really good food."

While at-sea staples like hot dogs and chicken nuggets will never disappear completely, the training offered by NFMT professionals ensures that Sailors answering the call of duty are offered more selections that bring them a little taste of home.

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center San Diego, one of seven fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other joint and allied Forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS comprises more than 5,700 military and civilian logistics professionals, contractors and foreign nationals operating as a single cohesive team providing global logistics services from 110 locations worldwide.

A component of the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pa., NAVSUP GLS is part of a worldwide logistics network of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel providing combat capability through logistics.

NAVSUP Command Master Chief Applauds WWII Veteran for Heroic Actions
Release Date: 1/19/2012 4:31:00 PM

By Debbie Dortch, Naval Supply Systems Command Corporate Communications

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. (NNS) -- A representative from Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) attended a ceremony honoring a World War II ship's steward in Mountain View, Calif., Jan. 17 for his lifesaving actions during the Battle of Okinawa.

During the ceremony, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus presented veteran Carl Clark, 95, with the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device. Clark's heroic actions following a kamikaze attack on USS Aaron Ward (DM 34) saved the ship from sinking and many lives.

NAVSUP Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Sidney Dawson Jr. who attended the ceremony, leads today's enlisted supply community of more than 28,000 active and Reserve Sailors, which includes culinary specialists. Clark served as a ship's steward - a job which has evolved into today's culinary specialist (CS).

CSs perform duties similar to those of their ship's steward predecessors, who prepared and served meals, in addition to a variety of other maintenance duties.

"It's an extreme honor and privilege for me to be able to connect with Mr. Clark," Dawson said. "Stewards like Mr. Clark have made it possible for me to serve in the capacity that I do now and I stand on their shoulders today, along with nearly 8,000 CSs.

"Today, CSs are being afforded more training opportunities both ashore and afloat, learning a variety of cooking and presentation techniques that result in better food throughout the Navy. Training like this, coupled with guidance from their community leaders, ensures CSs are given every opportunity to be creative in the kitchen, to produce a variety of from-scratch dishes, and to proactively build menus their crews will enjoy and remember," Dawson said.

"Being a culinary specialist today is a challenging but rewarding Navy career choice," said Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Kathryn Thompson. "A Sailor has the ability to be a Navy chef for the commander in chief to running a Navy Galley afloat and/or ashore. Every day there are more and more opportunities for us to train with industry, to earn real-world culinary certifications, and to cook from scratch with fresh ingredients. The hard work and long hours are there but seeing the smiling faces of Sailors we serve is the epitome of 'service to others.' I wouldn't want to be anything else in the Navy.

"I think if Mr. Clark were to see today's Navy culinary specialists at work, he'd be very thrilled to see how far the CS rating has come since World War II and the respect CSs garner from all those who serve," Thompson said.

NAVSUP is responsible for quality of life issues for the naval force, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods. In addition, NAVSUP oversees logistics programs in the areas of supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, and security assistance.

Future is Bright for ONR's Lightweight, Sun-Powered Generator
Release Date: 12/26/2011 9:23:00 PM

By Katherine H. Crawford, Office of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Department of the Navy continues its move toward renewable energy with an Office of Naval Research (ONR)-funded solar generator that recently entered full production, officials announced Dec. 21.

The Ground Renewable Expeditionary ENergy System (GREENS) is a portable, 300-watt, hybrid battery generator that uses the sun to produce electric currents. It was developed to provide Marines with continuous power in the field.

"This item significantly reduces the amount of fuel that has to be delivered, minimizing the number of warfighters on the roads, convoys and hazards, as well as the logistics expenses associated with distributing fuel," said Cliff Anderson, logistics program officer in ONR's Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare & Combating Terrorism Department. "That was really the objective: to get warfighters out of harm's way and reduce the cost of transporting fuel."

The system, which rapidly transitioned from ONR to Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) and then into production, provides Marines in remote locations with battery and plug-in power for charging various devices. Several small Marine Corps outposts have successfully used GREENS as their sole energy source. This is notable because transporting fuel to these remote locations is often challenging and expensive.

"Infantry battalions that are far forward do not have immediate access to a wide range of logistics and maintenance equipment; therefore, any source of power that requires no [military-grade fuel], low maintenance and no special skills to operate becomes an instant success," said Maj. Sean Sadlier, a logistics analyst with the Marine Corps Expeditionary Energy Office, who trained users on and tested GREENS in the field with India Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. He added, "GREENS is modular, portable, rugged and intuitive enough to deploy in a combat environment. Units trained on GREENS as part of pre-deployment training have provided positive feedback."

GREENS supports the Marine Corps' objective of generating all power needed for sustainment and command, control, communications, computers and intelligence equipment in place in the field by 2025. This vision, as laid out in the USMC Expeditionary Energy Strategy, aligns with the Marine Corps Vision and Strategy 2025. The goal is to enable Marines to travel more lightly and quickly by reducing the amount of fuel needed.

Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division developed and tested the GREENS prototypes. Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division at China Lake assessed the final prototype, subjecting it to continuous power testing in temperatures exceeding 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Even under these conditions, GREENS worked at 85 percent capacity. This result exceeded expectations and led to an MCSC request that the product be rapidly developed and readied for acquisition.

ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 30 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and more than 900 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,065 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.

Russell Sailor Receives Arleigh Burke Award
Release Date: 12/22/2011 10:49:00 AM

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

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKHAM, Hawaii (NNS) -- A Hawaii-based independent duty corpsman was selected to receive the annual Arleigh Burke Award for Surface Warfare Operational Excellence Dec. 15.

Chief Hospital Corpsman Jason Adams is currently deployed aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) when he was notified by his commanding officer of his award.

"I was truly honored," said Adams. "Most of all, I was honored by the fact that my chain of command found me deserving enough to put me in for the award. I work with some of the greatest Sailors the Navy has to offer on board USS Russell. I am very proud to be a Sailor in our great Navy and it is truly a privilege to serve amongst the spectacular crew on USS Russell."

The SNA recognizes the contributions and leadership of surface warfare officers and enlisted surface warfare specialists by giving the Adm. Arleigh Burke Surface Warfare Operational Excellence Award. The annual honor is awarded within the paygrades O-1 through O-4, W-2 through W-4, and E-3 through E-7, from which the nominees have displayed a noteworthy performance while deployed.

"As President of the Surface Navy Association, it gives me great pleasure to inform you that you have been selected from a very competitive group of nominees to receive the annual Arleigh Burke Award for Surface Warfare Operational Excellence," said retired Vice Adm. Ronald Route, SNA president, in a letter to Adams. "The purpose of this award is to recognize superior achievement in the operational aspects of surface warfare by qualified surface warfare officers and enlisted surface warfare specialists."

Route continued to say that nominees for this award were proposed by the battle group, amphibious ready group, forward deployed naval forces unit operational commanders and ship squadron commanders.

"Clearly, this award focuses on operational performance by junior leaders," said Route. "You can be justifiably proud of your selection."

The guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) departed Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 1 for a seven-month independent deployment to the Western Pacific and U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

"I would like to convey to my fellow Sailors that hard work and dedication pays off," said Adams. "It doesn't always payout in the form of awards and medals, but most importantly it does pay out in the successes of your command and the successes of those you have the privilege of influencing. It is our responsibility to train like we fight and to leave the Navy better than we found it. It is our Duty as Leaders to continue to strive for excellence and to impart those qualities upon our Sailors."

Guided-missile destroyers are multi-mission anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare surface combatants. They operate independently for support of carrier and expeditionary strike groups and surface strike groups.

Truman Installs Port Anchor Chain
Release Date: 12/21/2011 10:23:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Thomas Miller, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs

Portsmouth, Va (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) installed its port anchor chain Dec. 16, marking completion of another goal in Truman's docking planned incremental availability (DPIA).

More than 30 Sailors and 10 shipyard workers assisted in lifting the 249,000-pound anchor chain 80 feet from the dry dock into the ship's forecastle. Truman expects installation of both anchor chains and anchors to be complete by the end of January.

The anchor chains and anchors were removed in April for sandblasting and painting.

"Having the anchors back on the ship is important because without them, we would not be able to go underway safely," said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Shawn Pankratz, assigned to Truman's deck department.

Prior to the evolution, the deck department and rehabilitation teams were working in the forecastle, sand blasting and painting the hawse pipe, the hole for the anchor chain on the bow of the ship.

"We had to make sure that the hawse pipe was being rehabbed properly, so we stayed in constant communication with rehabilitation teams to make sure we were on schedule," said Pankratz.

When anchor chain and anchor rehabilitation was complete, the anchors were transported to Truman. Sailors attached a line to the anchor chain and pulled it up using the ship's port side capstan.

When the bitter end of the chain, or the attaching link, reached the forecastle, Sailors wrapped it around the wildcat and guided it into the chain locker. There, the chain was attached to the bulkhead.

"By sandblasting and painting the chains, we can clearly see the markers on it, which is key to dropping the anchor underway," said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Mason Ellison, assigned to Truman's deck department. "It also ensured that the detachable links are working properly, making it easier to conduct maintenance."

Truman is undergoing a docking planned incremental availability (DPIA) at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) to conduct maintenance and refurbish shipboard systems.

Truman is expected to return to the fleet in the summer of 2012.

USS Pinckney Disrupts Piracy
Release Date: 12/21/2011 9:20:00 AM

By Ensign Elizabeth Kandt, USS Pinckney Public Affairs

USS PINCKNEY, Gulf of Aden (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91), assigned to Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, disrupted a group of suspected pirates close to the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC), south of Yemen, Dec. 19.

The Merchant Shipping Industry Best Management Practices, Version 4 (BMPv4) encourages merchant vessels to register with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) while transiting areas known to be high risk for piracy.

At approximately 8:40 a.m., the Motor Vessel (M/V) Nordic Apollo reported to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) they were under attack and been fired upon by pirates from a skiff.

Having registered their route with UKMTO in accordance with BMPv4, Nordic Apollo's position was relayed to counter-piracy forces operating in the region.

At approximately 11:00 a.m., the M/V Heather, operating 30 nautical miles from Nordic Apollo, reported suspicious activity by a skiff.

Pakistan Navy Rear Adm. Kaleem Shaukat, CTF 151's commander, authorized Pinckney to investigate.

Nordic Apollo confirmed the pirate attack, but stated they no longer had sight of the skiff. In response to the distress call, Pinckney made best speed to the area, issued a radio warning to other vessels in the vicinity, and launched its MH-60R helicopter.

The helicopter crew successfully tracked and located the skiff, observing nine suspected pirates and pirate paraphernalia on board, including several ladders, weapons and fuel containers. The suspected pirates were seen attempting to cover their weapons with blankets and throwing the ladders overboard as Pinckney closed their position.

Intercepted by the helicopter and Pinckney, the skiff stopped and the suspected pirates threw their weapons, identified as five AK-47 rifles, one rocket propelled grenade (RPG) launcher and three RPG rounds, overboard.

Pinckney was given authorization to conduct a boarding using their visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team and once aboard, the VBSS team confirmed there were nine suspected pirates, one grappling hook, 36 barrels of fuel, and 75 and 45 horsepower outboard engines. The VBSS team scuttled one outboard motor and left the skiff with enough fuel and water to return back to shore.

Cmdr. Matthew M. McGonigle, Pinckney's commanding officer, praised the crew for their efforts.

"My crew responded in an exceptional reaction time and with complete professionalism. With the helicopter in the air, acting in conjunction with the ship, we were able to have full coverage of the situation and stop them carrying out any further illegal activities.

"The operation was carried out in accordance with our pre-rehearsed responses to such an event, and I am very proud of the Pinckney's crew and all those involved."

Piracy is a threat to the security of all nations and requires an international solution. The presence of coalition navy vessels in the region demonstrates a commitment to regional security and stability. To continue to counter and deter piracy successfully, coalition efforts must be complimented by proactive measures by commercial shippers, regional governments, and the international community.

Pinckney is assigned to Combined Task Force 151, a multi-national, mission-based task force working under Combined Maritime Forces, to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Southern Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

USS John C. Stennis Launches Navy's Final Air Mission Over Iraq
Release Date: 12/20/2011 7:53:00 AM

From USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USNS Mercy Celebrates 25 Years of Service
Release Date: 12/19/2011 8:01:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Regan, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Crew members and visitors gathered on the mess decks of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) Dec. 19 to celebrate its 25 years of service as a hospital ship.

The crew cut a cake after a few words from Commanding Officer, Capt. Timothy Hinman, marking the quarter-century milestone.

"It's an honor to be a part of this 25-year anniversary celebrating the heritage of this ship," said Hinman. "We are part of such a remarkable legacy which has provided tsunami relief and humanitarian aid during conflicts and taken part in numerous Pacific Partnership events."

Mercy carries a longstanding tradition of humanitarian aid provided by Sailors and civilians who are proud to serve on board.

"I was stationed here 16 years ago as a young Sailor and was honored to be able to come back and now serve as the ship's senior enlisted leader," said Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Guy Gagui.

Mercy was transformed from the oil tanker SS Worth and was commissioned as a USNS hospital ship in 1986.

Since then, Mercy has continued on the legacy of providing humanitarian aid when called upon.

"Service is our main mission on this ship, whether it's dealing with conflicts, natural disasters or call for aid, we help others with humanitarian aid," said Hinman.

Mercy is currently preparing for Pacific Partnership 2012, which is an ongoing effort to provide humanitarian support and strengthen bonds throughout the Pacific region.

"The ship is currently getting ready to take part in Pacific Partnership 2012 and we couldn't be more excited," said Hinman. "Everyone is really eager to work side by side with the partner and host nations of this mission."

Navy Passes "Old Salt" Award
Release Date: 12/17/2011 8:58:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rafael Martie, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The "Old Salt" designation, honoring the Navy's Surface Warfare Officer serving on active duty with the earliest Officer of the Deck (OOD) fleet qualification, changed hands during a ceremony aboard USS San Antonio (LPD 17) at Naval Station Norfolk, Dec. 16.

The qualification passed from retired Adm. Mike Mullen to Adm. John C. Harvey, Jr., commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

The "Old Salt" award was initiated in 1988, by the Surface Navy Association (SNA) and is accompanied by a bronze statue depicting a World War II naval officer on the pitching deck of a ship. The statue is cast from metal salvaged from historic U.S. naval ships, most notably the battleship USS Maine, which exploded and sank in Havana Harbor in 1898, precipitating the Spanish-American War.

Mullen held the award since 2007, and recently retired as the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff. Mullen was unable to attend the ceremony, so retired Vice Adm. Hank Giffin, East Coast vice president of the Surface Navy Association (SNA) passed the "Old Salt" designation to Harvey, who earned his OOD letter in 1977 aboard USS Bainbridge (CGN 25).

"We have had 14 "Old Salts" since 1988, and today we recognize our number 15," said Giffin. "This award reflects the ideal of the Surface Navy and the tradition of our heritage."

During the presentation Harvey spoke about the importance of those around him through the years that contributed to his success and reasoning for staying in the Navy for as long as he has.

"As much as things have changed since June 6, 1973, the most important thing that is unchanged has been people like you, the Sailors, chiefs, and officers who have dedicated themselves for four years or 40," said Harvey. "You come through for your ship, Navy, and nation."

After the presentation Harvey reflected on his past as a young OOD on board USS Bainbridge.

"I remember when I first qualified; we were in the Gulf of Thailand working with USS Constellation (CV 64) and 14 other ships in tough formations, and I can remember very well those long watches during those intense period of activities," said Harvey.

As the ceremony came to a conclusion on the San Antonio, some of the junior officers spoke about the impact Harvey's message had on them.

"It's amazing to imagine that Adm. Harvey was in my shoes, and to be part of the tradition that he is speaking of is really nice," said Ensign Nick Artabazon, USS San Antonio.

The custodian of the "Old Salt" upon his or her retirement passes the responsibility to instill the ideals of the Surface Warfare Community, the core values of the Navy, and the tradition of the surface warrior to the next "Old Salt," and a miniature replica of the statue is presented to each "Old Salt" as he or she retires.

Previous holders of the "Old Salt" award were Adm. Lee Baggett, Jr.; Rear Adm. Lawrence Layman; Vice Adm. Albert J. Herberger; Vice Adm. Joseph S. Donnell III; Adm. David E. Jeremiah; Vice Adm. David M. Bennett; Vice Adm. Philip M. Quast; Rear Adm. George F. A. Wagner; Rear Adm. George A. Huchting; Rear Adm. Dennis R. Conley; Rear Adm. James B. Ferguson III; Vice Adm. James F. Amerault and Vice Adm. Rodney Rempt.

LCS Remote Minehunting System Reaches Reliability Milestone
Release Date: 12/15/2011 1:47:00 PM

From Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The remote minehunting system (RMS), a critical component of the mine countermeasures mission package for the littoral combat ship class, completed the first phase of reliability testing Nov. 22, at the Lockheed Martin facilities off the coast of Palm Beach, Fla.

The RMS, which will provide an off-board mine reconnaissance capability, successfully completed more than 500 hours of offshore, in-water testing, including line-of-sight and over-the-horizon communications checks and full exercise of vehicle control, mobility, maneuvering, and sonar towing capability. Completed six-weeks early, the tests validated reliability and maintainability improvements made to the baseline vehicle.

"Initial analysis of the data indicates that we have met or surpassed all testing and program objectives and we obtained the required data needed to proceed to the next phase," said Steve Lose, program manager for the Remote Minehunting System program.

The RMS is designed to conduct rapid reconnaissance of bottom and moored mines from the deep-water region to the very shallow water region. The RMS will aid in the determination of the presence of mines and help identify safe routes or operating areas around potential minefields.

The RMS is a combination of the remote multi-mission vehicle (RMMV), coupled with the towed AN/AQS-20A mine-hunting sonar system. The RMMV is an unmanned, autonomous, semi-submersible, high endurance, low-visibility system that will be operated and maintained from the LCS. The vehicle has self-contained control, propulsion, power, and navigation. The AN/AQS-20A sonar system is designed to detect, classify, and localize mine-like contacts and identify bottom mines.

The program will now begin preparing for the next phase of reliability testing, scheduled to commence in third-quarter of fiscal year 2012. RMS will also be an integral part of ongoing LCS mine countermeasures mission package developmental testing scheduled for first-quarter of fiscal year 2012.

PEO LCS, an affiliated Program Executive Office of Naval Sea Systems Command, provides a single Program Executive responsible for acquiring and sustaining mission capabilities of the littoral combat ship class, beginning with procurement, and ending with fleet employment and sustainment. The combined capability of LCS and LCS mission systems is designed to dominate the littoral battle space and provide U.S. forces with assured access to coastal areas.

Navy Updates Purple Heart Award Policy
Release Date: 12/15/2011 1:48:00 PM

From Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In response to advances in the diagnosis and treatment of mild traumatic brain injuries, the secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) discussed updates to the standards and procedures for awarding the Purple Heart Dec. 15, one of the military's most recognized awards.

"In light of recent research, military neurologists have discovered the scope of mild traumatic brain injuries is wider than previously thought," said SECNAV Ray Mabus. "Wounds suffered while defending our nation, whether seen or unseen, deserve our utmost gratitude and respect."

The standards provided in the ALNAV message are consistent with historic standards and previous awards of the Purple Heart since World War II, when the award was first authorized for the Navy and Marine Corps.

"Sailors and Marines may be awarded the Purple Heart for certain mild traumatic brain injuries that were caused by enemy action" explained Jim Nierle, president, Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals. "If they suffered a loss of consciousness, or had to be given the disposition of 'not fit for full duty' by a medical officer for a period greater than 48 hours after a concussive event, they may qualify for the Purple Heart."

Purple Hearts awarded for MTBI will continue to meet the historical standards of severity applied to all types of wounds, ensuring the prestige of the award is maintained. Applying these standards to MTBI, the concussive event must have been caused either directly or indirectly by an enemy action with intent to kill or maim.

To learn more about Purple Heart award standards and procedures, read ALNAV 079/11.

USS Samuel B. Roberts Completes Six-Month Deployment
Release Date: 12/14/2011 1:57:00 PM

By Lt. j.g. K. Matthew Wall, USS Samuel B. Roberts Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Families and friends welcomed home Sailors from USS Samuel B. Roberts during their scheduled return to Mayport Dec. 14.

The historic warship departed for Africa exactly six months earlier June 14 to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Africa Partnership Station (APS).

Roberts sailed more than 34,000 nautical miles operating in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Horn of Africa and Indian Ocean. They also transited through the Straits of Gibraltar and Suez Canal twice during the deployment.

As an independent deployed ship, Roberts was accompanied by Jacksonville-based helicopter squadron, HSL-42 Detachment 1, "Yellow Belly Sliders." As a vital asset, they provided increased radar range for the Roberts and were instrumental during anti-piracy operations.

During deployment the ship conducted many joint military exercises with partnering African navies. As part of APS, Roberts embarked officers and Sailors from Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa and Seychelles to participate in a variety of training to include visit, board, search and seizure, ship navigation and damage control.

In addition to the training, the crew committed many hours of community outreach with projects and athletic events to engage and assist the peoples of East Africa. Some of these outreach projects included painting classrooms, planting trees in neighbourhoods and playing soccer games with children in the local schools.

The overall goal of APS is to strengthen relations between the U.S. and partner countries in Africa to improve maritime security and safety.

"I couldn't be more proud of this crew for the incredible job they did during this deployment," said Samuel B. Roberts' Commanding Officer Cmdr. Angel Cruz. "It was a complete success not only for the Sammy B, but for the Navy, our African counterparts and, most importantly, our country."

By the end of deployment Roberts advanced 20 Sailors ranging from the ranks of seaman to chief petty officer and qualified more than 60 enlisted surface warfare specialists.

The deployment adds to Roberts many accomplishments for 2011 to include a successful joint-Navy maritime training exercise, Joint Warrior, conducted in the United Kingdom between March and May and her record-setting board of inspection and survey in early March.

Samuel B. Roberts is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 14 and is homeported in Mayport, Fla.

Sailor Awarded Soldiers Medal for Heroism
Release Date: 12/14/2011 4:19:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Paul D. Williams, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

YORKTOWN, Va (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to Riverine Squadron 3, part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, was awarded the Soldier's Medal Dec. 13, for his acts of heroism in Afghanistan.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Roy Jaquez helped save the lives of three crew members May 3, 2010, when a commercial Russian Mi - 17 Heavy Lift Transportation helicopter fell from the sky at Forward Operating Base Kala Gush, in Nuristan Province, Afghanistan.

Jaquez and four other service members kicked in the cockpit glass and pulled the three crewmen to safety dodging rocks, earth and parts of the helicopter that were kicked up from the spinning rotors.

"These guys were doing this while the engines were still running, and hot exhaust shooting out at them," said Capt. Raymond Benedict, Provincial Reconstruction Team Nuristan commanding officer.

After the crash, one of the helicopter's fuel tanks ruptured spilling highly flammable aviation fuel around the wreckage and threatening a massive explosion, but this didn't stop Jaquez and the other responders.

"They were able to get the three crew members out within three minutes of the crash," said Benedict.

Thanks to the heroic efforts of Jaquez and the others, injured crewmen were pulled to safety and evacuated to a medical facility within an hour of the crash. Eventually they made a full recovery from their injuries.

"When I found out that they were all going to be ok, that was the happiest moment for me," said Jaquez.

"The way that everyone responded in such a heroic fashion was inspiring," said Benedict. "It was the most awesome thing I have ever seen in my career in the Navy. I cannot underestimate the reaction of those guys who ran toward the wreckage. I was there, and I saw it; it was incredible."

According to Jaquez, being awarded for his actions is an honor and extremely humbling.

"I never expected to be put in a situation like this when I joined the Navy," said Jaquez. "If there is someone who is hurt I have to go help them because that is what corpsman do."

Jaquez is among a select few Sailors to be awarded the Soldier's Medal. The medal was authorized by Congress July 2, 1926, and is the highest non-combat medal awarded for heroism.

Notable recipients of the Soldier's Medal include Colin Powell, who was awarded the decoration during his second tour in Vietnam (1968-69). Other recipients include 28 people who risked their lives following the terrorist attack on the Pentagon in 2001.

USS Nitze's Damage Control Program Gets a Makeover
Release Date: 12/13/2011 1:14:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS NITZE, At Sea (NNS) -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) put its new damage control program to the test while underway Dec. 9.

Nitze recently adjusted its damage control program in an effort to better fight the ship in a multi-mission environment.

With the implementation of the Rapid Response and Isolation (RRI) team, Nitze is innovating the way their Sailors respond to damage, to any part of the ship, while the ship is performing any of its myriad missions.

"With the increase in multi-warfare platforms and technology and decrease in personnel, reorganizing the remaining Sailors to complete missions of increasing complexity is key to success," said Cmdr. Christopher Nerad, Nitze commanding officer. "Nitze Sailors are now functionally aligned to fight the ship and to save the ship. This organizational approach maximizes both combat readiness and our ability to sustain operations when deployed."

Sailors on the RRI team are distinguishable by their red coveralls, setting them apart as personnel whose primary responsibility is the combating of fires, toxic gas and hull damage, which could occur at any time.

"On other ships, when a casualty is called away, sometimes Sailors may be delayed while waiting for watch relief for whatever station they may be at," said Lt. j.g. Dirk Wooten, the damage control assistant aboard Nitze. "Using our method, the only other watch a Sailor on the Rapid Response and Isolation team might be standing would be an under instruction watch, meaning they can report to the assigned repair locker immediately and not have to wait for someone else to take over that station."

The primary team is made up of Sailors with a higher level of damage control training and experience. They are the first to respond to any casualty that may be called away. These Sailors are constantly on standby to fight the ship, making damage control readiness their watch station.

If the initial response team cannot combat the problem on their own, one of three specialized and functionally aligned "attack" teams will be called in to assist. Attack team alpha specializes in fighting fires, while team bravo responds to hull damage, from flooding to burst pipes, and team charlie is responsible for crash and salvage on the flight deck, as well as toxic gas leaks. Attack team bravo is also the primary rescue and assistance crew.

"Normally, Sailors assigned to a certain repair locker will respond to any type of casualty that occurs as long as it happens in the area assigned to that locker," said Wooten. "We have teams that cover the entire ship, but only respond to their team's assigned casualty type."

Organizing Sailors with this method leaves plenty of time to train the Rapid Response and Isolation team for all possible variables, while leaving the rest of the ship with an adequate number of Sailors to maintain a three-section watch rotation.

"As far as I know, we're the only ship that has our watchbills set up to the point that we can run full damage control drills during other major evolutions, like a replenishment at sea," said Damage Controlman 1st Class John Pogue, the Damage Control Training Team (DCTT) coordinator.

The RRI team keeps the ship from going to general quarters for anything less than a simulated combat emergency with multiple casualties, or a situation determined by the commanding officer. The DCTT runs multiple casualty exercises daily to keep the RRI and attack teams prepared to work together and, ultimately, discover the best way for all teams to repair any casualties as a cohesive unit.

"We've been using this system for around six to eight months, and after we started getting the initial kinks worked out, we're seeing a big improvement in our abilities to maintain the ship," said Pogue. "I wouldn't be surprised at all to see this type of damage control organization get picked up by the rest of the Navy."

Nitze is currently underway preparing for an upcoming scheduled deployment as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

USS Mitscher Returns to Homeport
Release Date: 12/10/2011 9:27:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Dec. 10, after a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th areas of responsibility.

While in theater, Mitscher conducted maritime security operations and security cooperation efforts, and supported Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. Mitscher was assigned to various task forces combating piracy and terrorism, conducting escort and humanitarian missions and standing by to launch missiles at a moment's notice. She also served the Navy's mission to build global maritime partnerships through joint exercises and operations with the British, Spanish, Pakistani, Montenegrin, Croatian and Albanian navies.

"It was a highly successful deployment. It was deployment of a lot of firsts with (aircraft carrier) George H.W. Bush. The crew performed magnificently across every department and the ship was ready to answer bells at all times and put ordnance on target. We did everything we were asked to do, and we were on time, ready, willing and able," said Cmdr. Brian K. Sorenson, Mitscher's commanding officer.

After seven port visits, including Albania, Montenegro, Bahrain, The Republic of Seychelles, Portugal and two to the United Arab Emirates, the crew of approximately 300 Sailors, including 39 new enlisted surface warfare specialists, 10 new surface warfare officers and 12 new fathers, is excited to be with their families and friends again.

Command Master Chief William J. Mullinax said the crew, from the most junior Sailor to the most senior, is glad to be back after performing their duties and accomplishing their mission

"This is my 11th deployment. The mission may be different every time, but that feeling of excitement and the happiness of being home stays the same. It doesn't go away, no matter how many deployments you have done." said Mullinax.

"It's great to finally be home after a long and trying deployment. We did a lot of great things out there, but I'm looking forward to spending time with my family and seeing how much my baby girl has grown," said Yeoman 1st Class Chad Shortridge.

Some crewmembers didn't have to wait to see their loved ones. Mitscher made a brief stop at Naval Station Mayport, Fla., Dec. 8, to pick up family members for a "tiger cruise" to homeport. During the two-day cruise, guests were treated to weapons demonstrations, front-row seats to replenishment-at-sea and a chance to see how Mitscher held up in a drag race against other ships in her strike group.

"It's a unique opportunity to be on board a U.S. Navy ship," said Tony Knight, Shortridge's brother-in-law and guest for the cruise.

"It's interesting to see how everything operates, and to be on board for the homecoming was amazing. It's pretty special to see if from the other side, to see how everyone gets prepared and just be a part of the excitement. I'm honored to have been a part of it," Knight said.

Mitscher was deployed as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group. The strike group consisted of Carrier Strike Group 2 staff, Carrier Air Wing 8, Destroyer Squadron 22 staff, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), guided-missile cruisers USS Gettysburg (CG 64), and USS Anzio (CG 68) and guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103).