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Tin Can Sailors


News From Today's Navy

(Last updated 02/05/10)

03 Feb 10	Climate Change On Navy's Radar
03 Feb 10	Battleship Missouri Memorial reopens after a three month overhaul
03 Feb 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
02 Feb 10	Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hickam Air Force Base Combine To Form Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
02 Feb 10	Comfort Corpsmen Give Infant Another Shot at Life
02 Feb 10	Comfort Reunites Mother, Daughter Separated by Earthquake
02 Feb 10	Navy Confirms Sunken Sub in Balabac Strait is USS Flier
02 Feb 10	Haiti Multimedia - a one minute look at the Navy's humanitarian relief effort in Haiti
02 Feb 10	The cast and crew of the movie Avatar visit USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69)
01 Feb 10	Fiscal Year 2011 Department of the Navy Budget Submission
01 Feb 10	Gunston Hall, Underwood Work Quality of Life Issues at Killick
01 Feb 10	Underwood Sailors Provide Medical Care to Injured Haitians
31 Jan 10	Comfort Cares for Man Buried Alive After 13 Days in Rubble
31 Jan 10	Lincoln Strike Group Changes Command
31 Jan 10	Bataan Medical Delivers Earthquake Miracle
31 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
31 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
30 Jan 10	Prospective Commanding Officers Complete First SOSMRC Course
30 Jan 10	Freedom Arrives In Mayport, Prepares For Maiden Deployment
30 Jan 10	Service members and veterans gather for groundbreaking of Miramar National Cemetery
28 Jan 10	Bataan Provides Vital Link to Haiti Relief
28 Jan 10	Navy Leads Haitian Harbor Assessment
28 Jan 10	Operation Unified Response Support Flows Nonstop
28 Jan 10	Seabees Departing to Support Haiti Relief Operations
28 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) uses ordnance elevators for transporting Haitian patients
28 Jan 10	Headlines From the Active Fleet
28 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
27 Jan 10	High-Speed Ferry Ships to Support Haiti Relief
27 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson Releases Haitian MEDEVAC Patients
27 Jan 10	Bataan Receives First Landing Craft MEDEVACs
27 Jan 10	Navy Ships Provide Critical Resources in Haiti
27 Jan 10	U.S. Postal Service to Honor Four Distinguished Sailors with Special Stamps
27 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
27 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) chaplains help in Haiti
27 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
26 Jan 10	USS Samuel B. Roberts Departs Congo
26 Jan 10	Commodore Conveys Gratitude for Multinational Effort in Haiti
26 Jan 10	Center for Surface Combat Systems Provides Training to Support Navy's Newest Ship
26 Jan 10	Haiti Multimedia - a one-minute look at the Navy's humanitarian relief effort in Haiti
26 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
26 Jan 10	USS Eisenhower Relieves USS Nimitz to Continue Navy Support to Coalition Troops in Afghanistan
25 Jan 10	Bataan's First 'Miracle' Patient in Haiti Returns Home
25 Jan 10	Gunston Hall Sailors Help Haitians in Quake Aftermath
25 Jan 10	USS Fort McHenry Treats MEDEVAC Patients from Haiti
25 Jan 10	Carter Hall Deck Department 'Delivers" in Haiti
24 Jan 10	Nassau Arrives in Haiti
24 Jan 10	USS Los Angeles Decommissions at the Port of Los Angeles
24 Jan 10	Navy Aircraft Carrier Playing Major Role in Relief Efforts
24 Jan 10	Merchant Vessel Repels Pirate Attack
23 Jan 10	Bataan LCACs Land Ashore to Bring More Relief in Haiti
22 Jan 10	Carl Vinson Touches Hearts, Saves Lives at Haitian Clinic
21 Jan 10	Commander Discusses the Role of USS Bataan in Humanitarian Efforts
21 Jan 10	PWD GTMO Prepares Airfield to Support Logistics Mission in Haitian
21 Jan 10	USS Higgins Supports Relief Effort from Coast of Haiti
21 Jan 10	Coalition Counter-piracy Task Force Changes Command
21 Jan 10	George H.W. Bush Sailors Assisting in Haiti Relief Effort
20 Jan 10	Coalition Counter Piracy Task Force Changes Command
20 Jan 10	USNS Comfort Begins Work in Haiti, Prepares To Expand Medical Capability
20 Jan 10	Maritime Force Serves as Cornerstone of Relief Operations in Haiti
20 Jan 10	Bataan Receives MEDEVAC, Treats 19 Injured Haitians
20 Jan 10	CNO Approves Service Dress Khaki Uniform Design, Initial Wear Policy
20 Jan 10	New Radar Detection Lab Will Enhance Navy's Ability to Protect Nation
20 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
20 Jan 10	VIDEO -- Haiti Multimedia - a one-minute look at the Navy's humanitarian relief effort in Haiti
20 Jan 10	USS Independence (LCS 2) revolutionizes naval technology
20 Jan 10	Sailors from USS Lassen (DDG 82) and JS Ohnami (DD 111) observe 50th anniversary of U.S.-Japanese partnership
20 Jan 10	VIDEO Haiti Multimedia - a one-minute look at the Navy's humanitarian relief effort in Haiti
20 Jan 10	Surgery performed on board USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) saves life of Haitian girl
20 Jan 10	Headlines from around the fleet
20 Jan 10	Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Gary Roughead, talks about USS Independence (LCS 2) crew.
20 Jan 10	Higgins Crew Makes a Difference in Haiti
20 Jan 10	USS Bataan Ready to Help in Haiti
20 Jan 10	Carl Vinson Reunites 12-Year Old Haitian with Family
20 Jan 10	Carl Vinson Sends Desperately Needed Water Ashore
20 Jan 10	Comfort Receives First Patients
19 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
19 Jan 10	Gunston Hall Arrives in Haiti to Assist Earthquake Victims
19 Jan 10	USS Reuben James Deploys to the Western Pacific
19 Jan 10	USS Bataan Receives MEDEVAC, Treats Three Injured Haitians
19 Jan 10	Normandy, HSL 46 Det 3 Provide Relief to Haitian Earthquake Victims
19 Jan 10	USS Fort McHenry Arrives in Haiti
19 Jan 10	Enterprise Sailors Support Haitian Relief Effort
18 Jan 10	Sanjay Gupta Assists Vinson Medical Team
18 Jan 10	USNS Grasp, Divers Arrive in Port-au-Prince, Begin Port Assessments
18 Jan 10	Hospital Ship Comfort to Support Operation Unified Response Haiti
18 Jan 10	Maritime Civil Affairs Team Aboard Bataan Prepares to Assist in Haiti
18 Jan 10	Safety Measures Protect Ship From Piracy
17 Jan 10	UPDATE: U.S. Navy Delivers Assistance, Capabilities to Unified Response
17 Jan 10	USS Normandy Arrives off Coast of Port-Au-Prince
17 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson Receives Haitian MEDEVAC Patients
17 Jan 10	Gunston Hall Deploys in Support of Relief Operations in Haiti
17 Jan 10	NHB Staff Preparing to Support Relief Efforts in Haiti
16 Jan 10	USS Underwood En Route to Haiti
16 Jan 10	CNO Speaks at LCS 2 Commissioning in Mobile
16 Jan 10	USS Independence Commissioned
16 Jan 10	Carl Vinson Begins Humanitarian Operations in Southern Command
16 Jan 10	Navy Medicine Responds to Haiti Earthquake Disaster
16 Jan 10	Vinson Helicopters Perform Medical Evacuations; "Sea Base" On the Way
16 Jan 10	USNS Comfort Readies to Leave for Haiti
16 Jan 10	Top Navy Doc Predicts Long USNS Comfort Deployment
16 Jan 10	Hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) deploys to Haiti
16 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
16 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
15 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson Arrives in Haiti
14 Jan 10	Military Preps for Broader Haiti Relief Mission
14 Jan 10	Obama Makes Haiti Response Top U.S. Priority
14 Jan 10	Sailors from MCAST Prepare for Deployment en route to Haiti
14 Jan 10	Sailors from MSRON-6 Prepare for Deployment en route to Haiti
14 Jan 10	NATO Commander Expects 'Significant Progress' in Afghanistan
14 Jan 10	NTTC Meridian Named Bainbridge Award Winner
14 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
14 Jan 10	Photo of the Day
13 Jan 10	Vinson Deploys to Respond to Haiti Earthquake
13 Jan 10	SOUTHCOM to Deploy Assessment Team to Haiti
13 Jan 10	Navy to Commission Littoral Combat Ship Independence
13 Jan 10	Mission Packages Key to LCS Capabilities
13 Jan 10	U.S.-Japan Alliance is Cornerstone of Security in Asia, says 7th Fleet Commander
13 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
13 Jan 10	USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) deploys in support of Southern Seas 2010
13 Jan 10	The Naval Undersea Museum in Keyport, Wash., unveils a display featuring 50th anniversary of the ballistic missile submarine
13 Jan 10	Navy assists in US relief efforts in Haiti
11 Jan 10	USS Missouri Returns, 100 Service Members Reenlist
11 Jan 10	Sailors reenlist aboard the former USS Missouri (BB 63) during its return to Battleship Row
11 Jan 10	Yokosuka Morale, Welfare and Recreation department hosts Polar Bear Plunge.
11 Jan 10	Navy Supply Corps School Commanding Officer Relieved
11 Jan 10	Keep Your Family Safe: Practice Operational Security on Social Media
11 Jan 10	Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Rick West, talks about social media.
08 Jan 10	Navy's Second Littoral Combat Ship to be Commissioned
08 Jan 10	Former USS Oriskany (CVA 34) becomes artificial reef.
08 Jan 10	Two New Navy Working Uniforms Announced
07 Jan 10	American Hero Awarded Purple Heart and POW Medals
07 Jan 10	Pre-Commissioning Unit Independence (LCS 2) features new surface warfare technology
07 Jan 10	From Sculptor to Sailor
06 Jan 10	CNO Lands on Carrier Operating in the North Arabian Sea
06 Jan 10	Revolutionary Ship Readies for Commissioning
06 Jan 10	Navy Non-Kinetic Air Power for OEF
05 Jan 10	Headlines From Around the Fleet
02 Jan 10	Nimitz Keeps Golden Anchor for Fourth Year
02 Jan 10	Ike Strike Group Deploys
	Tips on how to protect your computer and personal data

Climate Change On Navy's Radar
Release Date: 2/3/2010 9:47:00 PM

From Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command Public Affairs

ATLANTA, Ga. (NNS) -- The director of the U.S. Navy's Task Force Climate Change (TFCC) said the earth is truly experiencing a climate change and the Navy needs to be prepared for potential impacts on its mission areas.

Oceanographer and Navigator of the Navy and TFCC Director Rear Adm. David Titley made his remarks as part of a panel discussion on environmental security and climate change at the annual meeting of the American Meteorological Society in Atlanta last month.

The Task Force makes recommendations to Navy leadership regarding policy, strategy, force structure and investments relating to climate change. Of immediate interest is the Navy's investment in observation and prediction capabilities.

Titley said the rate of global warming has not slowed, and the long term trend is rising. The Arctic is among the areas seeing the greatest impact from climate change, with sea ice coverage during summer months steadily diminishing, and the ice is thinner when the Arctic Ocean freezes again in the winter.

Titley said the ice volume has declined and is not coming back.

"We're really seeing a tremendous change in the Arctic," he said, adding that the "new" normal for the Arctic is to be not completely frozen all year.

The implications are significant for the Navy's fixed assets as well as operations and potential operations, and Navy leadership will have to decide how to respond.

For instance, a sea-level rise of two meters can cause the Navy to evaluate which of its bases will be viable, and additionally queries whether or not the Navy should operate ice-hardened ships in an ice-diminished arctic, even though ice-hardened ships cost more to build and to operate.

Consequently, Titley said, the Navy is interested in reducing its carbon-based energy output by 50 percent by 2020.

Task Force Climate Change recently released its Arctic Roadmap, which guides Navy policy, investment, action and public discussion regarding the Arctic. Another roadmap for the broader issue of global climate change will subsequently be developed.

The Navy also works with interagency and international partners to assess changes in the Arctic and to prevent conflict that might result from the change.

Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hickam Air Force Base Combine To Form Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
Release Date: 2/2/2010 11:59:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Naval Station Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base held a Jan. 31 ceremony unveiling Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam (JBPHH), marking the beginning of the transition period which will see the two military installations combine.

This transition period is called Initial Operational Capability (IOC), and according to JBPHH Commander Capt. Richard Kitchens, the two facilities will build on existing relationships.

"It is truly an honor as we stand here and bring these two historic bases together today," he said. "The Navy and Air Force share the same goals with passion and pride, and with the joining of forces today, we will be able to further our partnership between the two services."

United States Air Force 15th Airlift Wing Commander Col. Giovanni Tuck expressed the significant capabilities the joint base can offer.

"With the combining of forces, we will bring unity along with excellence into the future," he said. "I look forward to seeing a strong partnership prosper when we merge bases together today. Just because we are creating something new here today, the history of Hickam Air Force Base and Naval Station Pearl Harbor will never be forgotten."

During the ceremony, the JBPHH seal was unveiled and Sailors and Airmen opened up and removed the Aloha Aina Park pedestrian gate which previously separated the two bases.

Kitchens and Tuck then symbolically joined a traditional Hawaiian lei together, marking the beginning of the JBPHH IOC.

Kitchens said he looked forward to the future of JBPHH's tradition continuing to grow.

"There is plenty of history and tradition that is already involved with Pearl Harbor and Hickam," he said. "I know and I anticipate that there will only be plenty of good things involved with JBPHH that will continue to add to that history and tradition."

The IOC will continue through Oct. 1, when full operational capability will take effect. At that time all resources, property, personnel and authority for installation management functions will transfer to the Navy, which was designated by Base Realignment and Closure law to be the lead agency for the new installation.

United States Air Force 15th Mission Support Group, 15th Airlift Wing, Col. Charles Baumgardner will serve as the deputy, joint base commander. Mission commanders and other tenants will remain in charge of their units. The joint base commanders will report to Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Rear Adm. Dixon Smith.

Comfort Corpsmen Give Infant Another Shot at Life
Release Date: 2/2/2010 4:25:00 PM

By Mass Communication 2nd Class Chelsea Kennedy, USNS Comfort Public Affairs

USNS COMFORT, At Anchor (NNS) -- Two Sailors aboard USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) gave an infant another chance at life Jan. 24 when the child was born in critical condition aboard the hospital ship as it operated off the coast of Haiti.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Matthew Blake and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Catherine Andrews were both working in Casualty Receiving (CASREC) when a pregnant woman was brought aboard. She was in labor and in need of immediate medical care for injuries suffered in the earthquake that struck Haiti Jan. 12.

Because she was unstable, the medical personnel in CASREC passed the word that she would have to deliver immediately. The woman was rushed into the operating room for a Caesarian section where Andrews and Blake were on hand to assist.

"I normally work as an orthopedic technician," said Andrews, a native of Mounds, Ill. "I worked as a labor and delivery nurse for two years, so I was like, okay I can catch the baby."

Assisting in a birth was completely new to Blake, but his training kicked in when the baby was handed to him from the doctors.

"When the baby was delivered, he was not breathing independently and his heart was beating very slowly," said Blake, a Clarksville, Tenn. native.

Andrews said, "Initially we tried to rub towels on the baby and try to get baby to wake up and cry. When that wasn't working we took vitals and the heart rate was down, so I automatically tried to give the baby oxygen. Oxygen wasn't helping so we had to start CPR."

With quick action and unwavering confidence in their training as hospital corpsmen, Blake and Andrews' saved the baby's life.

"I physically did the chest compressions and I was pushing the fluid of life around that child," said Blake. "At that moment procedure took over."

Saving an infant's life is something that resonated deeply with both Sailors, but it was only one of many experiences they've had providing medical care in support of Operation Unified Response in Haiti.

"I have poured my time, effort and heart into this mission," said Blake. "I feel that I have contributed a lot to these people's lives."

Said Andrews of the experience, "I can't even explain it. We pretty much gave the baby a chance at life."

Comfort Reunites Mother, Daughter Separated by Earthquake
Release Date: 2/2/2010 12:52:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shannon Warner, USNS Comfort Public Affairs

USNS COMFORT, At Anchor (NNS) -- A mother and daughter reunited Jan. 31 aboard Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) after a 10-day separation.

Twelve-year-old Gedline Agard was in school when a massive earthquake devastated Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 12. The building collapsed on top of Agard, breaking her leg and fracturing her skull and spine. She was discovered the next day and transported to a general hospital for treatment.

Local doctors could not treat Agard's injuries effectively due to their severity and decided Comfort could provide the care she needed. Agard was taken to Terminal Varreux, a medical screening and evaluation center for Comfort and was brought aboard for treatment.

Doctors aboard agreed that spinal surgery was necessary. However, due to Agard's age, her parents needed to grant consent for the operation to take place. Agard's doctors were able to get a relative's phone number from her which they passed to Lt. Cmdr. Mill Etienne, a neurosurgeon aboard Comfort. Etienne, who speaks fluent Creole and French, was able to get a phone number for the girl's mother from the relative.

Etienne's call was one Ginette Laforest had been eagerly waiting.

"I didn't realize until I spoke to Laforest that she didn't know her daughter was alive," Etienne said. "It was a really big surprise … I was reuniting a family when I was making this phone call."

Following the call, Laforest arrived aboard Comfort by helicopter.

"As soon as we brought [Laforest] and walked her over to [Agard's] bed, Gedline started calling out for her mother," said Lt. Cmdr. Diane Hite, pediatrics assistant division officer aboard Comfort.

Mother and daughter were happy to be reunited after a challenging separation from one other.

"I couldn't eat or drink anything because I was so worried about her," Laforest said. "There are no words to describe how happy I am right now. I'm speechless."

Agard is currently in stable condition after her treatment.

Comfort is in Haiti supporting Operation Unified Response, providing medical care and humanitarian assistance to those like Agard who were affected by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince.

Navy Confirms Sunken Sub in Balabac Strait is USS Flier
Release Date: 2/2/2010 9:21:00 AM

By Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The wreck of a U.S. submarine sunk during World War II has been discovered in the Balabac Strait area of the Philippines, Rear Adm. Douglas McAneny, commander Submarine Forces Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), announced Feb. 1.

USS Flier (SS 250) was discovered by a documentary film company and identified by COMSUBPAC through the use of video evidence and the assistance of the Naval Heritage and History Command, McAneny said.

"We hope this announcement will provide some closure to the families of the 78 crewmen lost when Flier struck a mine in 1944," he said.

USS Flier, a 1,525-ton Gato-class submarine built at Groton, Conn., was commissioned in mid-October 1943. She departed from Pearl Harbor for her first war patrol in January 1944. While entering the harbor at Midway Island during a storm, she went aground and was seriously damaged.

The damaged submarine was towed back to Pearl Harbor and finally reached the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, where she was repaired. Flier made another start on her first war patrol in May 1944, heading from Pearl Harbor to the waters off Luzon. While en route on June 4 she attacked and sank the transport Hakusan Maru. On June 13, she attacked a Japanese convoy off Subic Bay, receiving a depth charging in return, and on June 22-23, hit another convoy off Mindoro, apparently damaging one or more ships.

In early August 1944 Flier left Fremantle, Australia, for her second war patrol. On August 13, while transiting shallow water to enter the South China Sea, she struck a mine and quickly sank. Fourteen of 86 crewmen escaped, but only eight survived the subsequent long swim to reach shore. After making their way by raft to Palawan and being protected by local people and a group of guerrillas, at the end of the month they were evacuated by the submarine USS Redfin (SS-272).
The last surviving crew member of Flier, Ensign Al Jacobson, never gave up the search for his lost shipmates. Sadly, Jacobson passed away in 2008, but his family was determined to continue the search. The family provided notes and research to the production company YAP Films, which investigates nautical mysteries, and Jacobson's son Steve and grandson Nelson participated in the search.

"After my father retired, he became very active in the quest to understand more of what happened," said Steve Jacobson. "He put together as much information as he could from naval records of the investigation and put together charts of where he believed Flier was. We provided YAP Films with everything my father had collected."

In the spring of 2009, with the aid of the Jacobson family, the team from YAP Films located wreckage of a submarine in the area that USS Flier was lost. Father and son divers Mike and Warren Fletcher of the television show "Dive Detectives" captured the first views of the sunken submarine in more than 64 years. YAP Films provided the Naval History and Heritage Command with footage taken in the Balabac Strait to aid in the identification.

"The Flier discovery presented the Dive Detectives with one of our most challenging dives," said Warren Fletcher. "At a depth of 330 feet there is little margin for error. As my father and I descended into the dark blue water, the unmistakable shape of a Gato-class submarine came into view. That moment made all of the hard work and danger pale in comparison with the feeling of pride it gave me to know that the Flier and her crew will not be forgotten."

With the information provided by YAP Films, COMSUBPAC and the Naval History and Heritage Command examined the evidence and historical records and determined that the submarine found at the reported position could only be USS Flier. No Japanese or U.S. submarine other than Flier was ever reported lost in the area, and the gun mount and radar antenna clearly identifiable in the video matched historical photographs of USS Flier. Additional identifiable characteristics of the hull indicated that the wreck is indeed a Gato-class submarine. These factors taken together led COMSUBPAC and the Naval History and Heritage Center to conclude that the wreck found by YAP Films could only be that of USS Flier.

"The Flier was found because all the right people came together for all the right reasons," said Mike Fletcher. "But mostly the Flier was found because of the love a family has for their dad."

"It was a pretty emotional experience," said Jacobson. "Although I was really confident of the position, you still don't know. Literally, it was exactly at the coordinates he said it would be. It is tremendous closure and I wish that my dad could have experienced this."

Former Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz once said, "When I assumed command of the Pacific Fleet on 31 December 1941 our submarines were already operating against the enemy, the only units of the fleet that could come to grips with the Japanese for months to come. It was to the Submarine Force that I looked to carry the load until our great industrial activity could produce the weapons we so sorely needed to carry the war to the enemy. It is to the everlasting honor and glory of our submarine personnel that they never failed us in our days of great peril."

By the end of World War II, submarines had made more than 1,600 war patrols. Pacific Fleet submarines like Flier accounted for more than half of all enemy shipping sunk during the war. The cost of this success was heavy: 52 U.S. Pacific Fleet submarines were lost, and more than 3,500 submariners remain on "eternal patrol."

Fiscal Year 2011 Department of the Navy Budget Submission
Release Date: 2/1/2010 5:38:00 PM

By Defense Media Activity - Anacostia

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Department of the Navy (DoN) budget submission of $160.6 billion delivered today is consistent with the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review, the basic tenets of the National Defense Strategy and the Maritime Strategy. The fiscal year (FY) 2011 baseline budget is a $4.6 billion, or 3 percent increase over the FY2010 level.

Navy and Marine Corps resources have been prioritized to prevail in today's wars, prevent and deter conflict in all domains, prepare for a wide range of contingencies and preserve the force.

Additionally, the FY 2011 request for overseas contingency operations (OCO) of $18.5 billion integrates sustained support for the warfighter. It includes incremental costs to sustain operations, manpower, equipment and infrastructure repair, as well as equipment replacement to support the focus on increasing threats.

The FY 2011 budget supports a deployable battle force of 284 ships including 11 aircraft carriers and 29 large amphibious ships. It also reflects a shift to support irregular warfare and includes funds for the littoral combat ship (LCS), expeditionary E/A-18G aircraft supporting national electronic warfare requirements, P-8 Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance aircraft supporting increased emphasis on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and a variety of unmanned aerial vehicles.

In the area of ship procurement, this budget funds nine new construction ships in FY2011 and 50 ships across the Future Years Defense Plan (FY 2011 through FY 2015)including two Virginia-class submarines per year, 17 LCSs, 8 DDG-51-class ships to continue the DDG-51 program restart, three new Mobile Landing Platforms, the first LHA(R) and the second Ford-class aircraft carrier.

In addition, aircraft procurement funds 206 airframes in FY 2011 and 1,006 airframes across the FYDP.

Navy Operation and Maintenance resources are increased to tightly focus on meeting increased combatant commander operational tempo requirements, properly sustaining and resetting ships and aircraft to reach expected service lives, restoring base budget enduring flight hour requirements previously funded with overseas contingency operations funding, and funding price increases, most notably in fuel.

Military and civilian basic pay is increased by 1.4 percent. Commitment to our investments in science and technology, cyberspace capabilities, facilities sustainment, base closure and family housing is maintained.

Gunston Hall, Underwood Work Quality of Life Issues at Killick
Release Date: 2/1/2010 2:58:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) John Stratton, USS Underwood Public Affairs

KILLICK, Haiti (NNS) -- Sailors from USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and USS Underwood (FFG 36) are working together with the Haitian people to expedite work on plumbing and sanitation deficiencies at the Killick Haitian Coast Guard Base.

Sailors from the two Navy ships were able to successfully install a well pump and have it running in a few days' time, providing potable water and sanitation primarily needed to support the medical clinic at the Haitian Coast Guard base.

"This well is essential to the quality of life here because it delivers water throughout the base," said Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class (SW) Chris Dreiling, from Salina, Kan. "It will provide water to the toilets, sinks and showers here."

The joint effort required the skills of several Sailors to ensure this much-needed project was completed.

"Gunston Hall provided us with the supplies and together we've been working on this project for the past few days," said Underwood Sailor and Jacksonville, Fla., native Electrician's Mate 1st Class (SW) Nelson Arnzten.

Gunston Hall Sailor Electrician's Mate 3rd Class Nayeli Benitez, a Hanover Park, Ill., native, said challenges with the project were to be expected.

"The electrical system here in Haiti is nothing like it is back in the United States," she said, after discovering the base's electrical system was tied to a generator, making it difficult to perform electrical maintenance.

Now that the well is functioning, other projects can be completed.

"I've been taking a look at the toilets and showers," said Gunston Hall Damage Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Gary Darling, a native of Morley, Mich. "A few of us have been making much-needed repairs to the toilets and showerheads, and we're ready for the pump to get the water flowing."

Gunston Hall, a Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock-landing ship, was originally scheduled for a deployment to Africa in support of Africa Partnership Station (APS) West. The ship was diverted to assist in humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations as part of Operation Unified Response.

The ship recently completed a mid-life modernization availability. The work included major upgrades to the ship's control system, local area network and machinery control system, propulsion systems, HVAC, as well as replacement of the ship's boilers and evaporators with an all-electric services system.

Underwood Sailors Provide Medical Care to Injured Haitians
Release Date: 2/1/2010 2:28:00 PM

By Ensign Kim Hanson, USS Underwood Public Affairs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- USS Underwood (FFG 36) has provided critical medical assistance in support of Operation Unified Response since their arrival in Haiti Jan. 16.

Underwood Sailors have worked at a triage center at Killick Joint Operations Center, located in Port-au-Prince. The 20 Sailors have treated patients with infections and minor injuries.

Underwood's Independent Duty Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/FMF) Joe Swanson, has been leading Sailors in the medical assistance efforts, which includes administrating antibiotics, bandaging wounds, splinting and setting fractures, and minor surgical operations. The Sailors act as medical assistants, handing the doctors supplies, instruments, bandages, and some clean and sterilize wounds. Many other Sailors are transporting patients on stretchers either to medical wards or to wait for medical evacuation at the helicopter landing zone near the treatment center.

One of the patients Swanson treated was a woman with a large infected abscess above her left eye. He cleaned and disinfected the wound and gave the woman antibiotics.

"She came back the next day 100 percent better, so happy. She came to find me immediately, gave me a hug, and said, 'Thank You very much,'" said Swanson.

Other minor surgeries included a woman with a large cyst on her chin and a man with an abscess in his knee. "The big thing is the people know we're there," added Swanson. "No matter if [their injury] is earthquake related or not, they come to us because they know we're going to take care of them."

Killick was previously a minor first aid station. It is now used as a treatment center and operating room for minor surgeries. The center treats more than 150 patients a day, providing them with medical care or evacuating them to the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) for more intensive care. Underwood Sailors treated more than 130 patients and performed 15 minor surgeries.

"I did what I could to comfort those in pain, especially the women and children," said Yeoman 1st Class (SW/AW) Jeremy Campbell. "There was not much pain medicine to go around, so a hand to hold and a hug was all I could give. What was obvious to me was the thankfulness in their eyes. There was a graciousness and hope that cannot be overstated, and it is something that I will carry with me forever. Helping the Haitians is undoubtedly my finest moment as a Sailor and an American."

The triage center at Killick Joint Operations Center was staffed by many different organizations, including Sailors from USS Gunston Hall (LSD-44), USS Higgins (DDG 76), Haitian caregivers, and doctors and nurses from Mexico.

Ensign Angela Duran from Underwood served as a translator between ship personnel and Mexican doctors.

"It was incredibly uplifting to see people from different services and different countries, speaking different languages, coming together for the common goal of helping the Haitian people in their time of need," said Duran. "I feel privileged to have been able to be a part of that effort. I will never forget this experience."

Chief Quartermaster (SW) Karl G. Miller was deeply affected by his experience in Haiti. "It was an eye-opener. What you see on the news cannot prepare you for the devastation that you walk into when you step off the ship and onto shore. There was no end to the work that needed done or the help that could be given," said Miller.

Underwood, from Mayport, Fla., is conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations for Operation Unified Response under control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet (NAVSO/C4F). NAVSO/C4F is directing all naval assets and personnel in support of Joint Task Force Haiti, the joint command element directing U.S. military capabilities support to United States Agency for International Development and the U.N. Stabilization Mission in Haiti.

Bataan Medical Delivers Earthquake Miracle
Release Date: 1/31/2010 10:43:00 PM

By USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At sea (NNS) -- The medical professionals aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) successfully delivered 8 lb. 3 oz. Theo Joe, a baby boy, at approximately 4:40 p.m., Jan. 30 in the ship's hospital, following a medial evacuation to Bataan from Grand Goave, Haiti.

A team of doctors and corpsmen from Bataan were volunteering at the Lifeline Christian Ministries Mission Medical Clinic, in Grand Goave, when they identified a pregnant Haitian woman, who had been laboring for nearly four hours and needed urgent care exceeding the clinic's capabilities.

Bataan's team in Grand Goave ordered an evacuation of the patient to the ship by way of an air cushion landing craft (LCAC) from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4.

"Mom and her baby boy are doing great," said Cmdr. Michael Cackovic, the delivering doctor, who is embarked aboard Bataan from Naval Medical Center, San Diego. "The LCAC ride relaxed her enough to be able to give birth naturally and safely."

Cackovic said the mother and baby are currently listed in stable condition and recovering aboard Bataan.

Bataan is part of the Amphibious Relief Mission, along with USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), in support of Operation Unified Response in Haiti after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated the island nation Jan. 12.

Comfort Cares for Man Buried Alive After 13 Days in Rubble
Release Date: 1/31/2010 10:47:00 PM

By Communication Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Wilson, USNS Comfort Public Affairs

PORT-au-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- A Haitian man survived with no food, sunlight or human contact for 13 days was rescued from the rubble and is being treated by medical staff aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), anchored off the coast of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

While walking down a street in his neighborhood, a house fell on top of Rico Duprevil Jan. 12 when a disastrous earthquake struck the country, trapping his right leg, crushing his femur and dislocating his pelvis. Only a gap in the cement enclosure and a pint-sized amount of water kept Duprevil alive.

"There was darkness all around, all of the time," Duprevil said. "I could not move inside. I could hear distant voices but they could not hear mine."

The massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated the Caribbean nation, killing thousands and injuring countless more. In the aftermath, Port-au-Prince is merely a widespread landscape of rubble with wandering people constantly searching for food, water, employment or missing loved ones among the debris and medical facilities.

"At this time in our lives, with God, anything is possible," Duprevil said. "If the Lord wanted me to die, He would have decided to do so. Only God has the solution for me." During a search of the area Jan. 25, townspeople found Duprevil alive and in high spirits, managing to dislodge him.

"I was never scared because God was on my side," Duprevil said. "I survived by thinking of Him and praying. I thought about my family."

Carried to a local hospital, Duprevil received basic triage for his wounds. On Jan. 26, the International Medical Surgery Response Team (IMSuRT), assumed responsibility but was only able to place him in traction, suspending his leg, hoping to realign the bone.

To receive the necessary medical care, medical evacuation was arranged the following morning with the Navy and Duprevil arrived at a landing zone to be screened for admission aboard Comfort.

"The facilities [in Port-au-Prince] could not handle this type of case so we moved him to people that could help," said Richard Stephens, a flight nurse for IMSuRT.

Capt. Richard Sharpe, on-scene medical commander from Comfort, performed a medical evaluation on Duprevil and deemed it necessary to provide immediate transport to Comfort for urgent medical care.

"Humans can go without nutrition for up to several weeks because the body goes into 'starvation mode,'" Sharpe said. "It conserves calories while vital organs start using other sources for energy."

After diagnosis, Sharpe requested an immediate airlift to Comfort. While waiting, Duprevil spent his time singing songs with his wife, Nadine, and watching two of his sons play with members of the IMSuRT staff. His other son and two daughters were not in Port-au-Prince at the time of the earthquake.

When the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter arrived, Duprevil was carried by stretcher with the help of Sailors from Comfort and members of the Army 82nd Airborne Division from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, who were providing ground support for the helicopter to transport to Comfort.

Minutes later, the helicopter arrived on Comfort's flight deck. The hospital ship is designed to quickly admit and evaluate inbound patients to begin immediate treatment. Using the medical information collected on land by Sharpe and his medical team, a full diagnosis followed and helped to move Duprevil into the Orthopedics ward for the medical care he needed. Less than one hour elapsed from Duprevil's departure from the medical screening facility at Port-au-Prince to admission into the proper care ward aboard Comfort.

"He is here on Comfort and will be receiving the surgery he needs," Sharpe said. "He needs to have his femur repaired with hardware and this can only be accomplished in our operating rooms. The surgical centers in Port-au-Prince are not sterile enough since the earthquake to allow internal fixation."

Comfort is equipped to support 1,000 patients on board, and is staffed by more than 1,100 military, civilian and non-governmental medical personnel. The hospital ship is deployed to Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response, a multinational humanitarian effort to ease the pain and suffering of the Haitian people during their critical time of need.

Freedom Arrives In Mayport, Prepares For Maiden Deployment
Release Date: 1/30/2010 8:16:00 AM

By Lt. Ed Early, USS Freedom (LCS 1) Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- USS Freedom (LCS 1), the Navy's first littoral combat ship (LCS), arrived at Naval Station Mayport, Fla., Jan. 26 to begin final preparations for her maiden deployment.

While in Mayport, Freedom will undergo final counterillicit trafficking and airborne use of force training and certification in preparation for expected missions in the U.S. Southern Command/Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

Readying for this deployment was a unique process for Freedom's Sailors. Starting in November 2009, Freedom engaged in independent training and certification exercises off the Virginia and Florida coasts, including maritime security surge training for both the Blue and Gold Crews.

After completing a Continuous Maintenance Availability at Colonna's Shipyard in Norfolk, Va., in mid-January 2010, Freedom got underway again for sea trials to verify the integration of the Surface Warfare Mission Package and aviation detachment with the core crew. Upon completion of a successful set of trials and onload of deployment ammunition, Freedom sailed south to Mayport to complete the final certification process and prepare for the mid-February 2010 deployment.

"This deployment comes a full two years ahead of schedule," said Cmdr. Randy Garner, commanding officer of Freedom's Gold Crew. "We are ready and eager to get to sea, head south and show what Freedom and her crew are capable of doing."

Freedom's deployment will be the first for the revolutionary LCS program, whose ships are designed to handle mission sets that do not require the full breadth and depth of capabilities of a traditional surface combatant.

Instead of the wide spectrum of combat capability inherent to those platforms, an LCS will embark tailored mission packages (surface warfare, mine countermeasure, anti-submarine warfare or maritime security) and an aviation detachment to fulfill a specific mission set. These tailored packages allow the LCS to fulfill several niche missions with a much smaller crew and at less cost than larger surface combatants.

Additionally, the shallower draft of the LCS allows it to operate in many areas where larger, deeper-draft combatants cannot venture.

The Sailors of Freedom's Gold Crew, some of whom served aboard the ship before her commissioning, are eagerly anticipating her first operational deployment.

"Absolutely – everyone's looking forward to this deployment," said Command Master Chief Anthony Decker, who will be embarking on his last shipboard deployment. "This is what these men and women get paid to do – not testing, not trials, but actually doing real-world missions."

Freedom's deployment will conclude later this spring when she arrives in her new homeport of San Diego.

Lincoln Strike Group Changes Command
Release Date: 1/30/2010 7:06:00 PM

From USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 held a change of command ceremony aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Jan. 29.

During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Mark D. Guadagnini relieved Rear Adm. Scott Swift as Carrier Strike Group 9 commander.

Swift served as commander of CSG 9 since Oct. 9, 2008. During his tour Swift was instrumental in orchestrating and leading sustained operations in support of the Navy's fleet response plan and U.S. 3rd Fleet's theater security cooperation plan.

Also under Swift's leadership, Lincoln successfully completed a nine-month planned incremental availability ahead of schedule, during which the ship underwent a complete overhaul estimated at nearly $350 million.

In his farewell remarks Swift highlighted the support the people and civic leaders of the Puget Sound, Wash., area have shown the Navy, as well as the community and military leaders of nearby Canada.

"We receive tremendous support here in Puget Sound and it's because of their leadership," said Swift.

Before ending his remarks Swift called Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Eric Schmidt to the stage to express his gratitude for the dedication Schmidt has given the Sailors of the Lincoln and to give away his final command coin as CSG 9 commander.

Swift is scheduled to report to U.S. Pacific Command to serve as the director of operations.

Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt, commander, 3rd Fleet, was the guest speaker and he reflected on the strong bonds Swift has forged with the local community. Hunt noted the positive relationships Swift built within the Navy, Coast Guard, community and with Canadian partners.

"Trust cannot be surged, trust must be built over time," said Hunt. "I rely heavily upon [Swift] to forge relationships within the strike group and within the community. These relationships have resulted in the Puget Sound area warmly welcoming our Sailors into the community."

Guadagnini most recently hails from Chief of Naval Air Training, where he served as commander since August 2007. During the ceremony he revealed his top three guidelines: "winners have fun, take care of each other and be the best."

Guadagnini said that not only does the Navy depend on the strike group, coalition maritime forces do as well.

"We will be the best allies and partners to those who enjoy freedom of the seas," said Guadagnini.

Aircraft carrier Lincoln is the flagship for CSG 9, which is homeported in Everett, Wash. Lincoln Strike Group consists of Carrier Air Wing 2, Destroyer Squadron 9 and its associated ships USS Cape St. George (CG 71), USS Shoup (DDG 86), USS Momsem (DDG 92), USS Halsey (DDG 97), USS Sterett (DDG 104), USS Ford (FFG 54), USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG 60) and USS Ingraham (FFG 61).

Prospective Commanding Officers Complete First SOSMRC Course
Release Date: 1/30/2010 11:04:00 AM

From Naval Surface Force Public Affairs

NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- Prospective commanding officers (PCOs) completed the academic portion of the first Senior Officer Ship Material Readiness Course (SOSMRC) at the Surface Warfare Officers' School in Newport, R.I. on Jan. 29.

SOSMRC is an updated version of a 13-week course that was offered in the 1980s and 90s. The course is focused on providing PCOs and prospective executive officers with core knowledge and skills such as damage control procedures and equipment operation, material self-assessment and shipboard safety requirements, to be better prepared for their upcoming command.

The first class included 29 officers assigned to command guided-missile destroyers and frigates, amphibious ships, mine countermeasures ships, or coastal patrol craft. The training provided for the PCOs included engineering and combat systems equipment fundamentals, damage control fundamentals and readiness, instruction in maintenance management and safety programs, and engineering and combat systems program management.

The intent of the course is to better prepare PCOs in self-assessing the material condition and readiness of their future command. The classroom portion of SOSMRC consisted of eight days of core fundamental lectures and five full days on specifics of the type of ship they will command. The PCOs also had two full days of maintenance university, where they reviewed, and refined, their skills of maintenance management.

Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn, commander, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic Fleet and the Surface Force Chief Readiness Officer, spoke to the group and emphasized the importance of SOSMRC – not only for their own professional development and preparation for their next assignment, but to teach their future crews the abilities and importance of self-assessment.

The PCOs toured USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) which was in Newport to assist with this new training endeavor. The students spent time on board refining their zone inspection skills and discussing their class and command issues with the Arleigh Burke's commanding officer.

Although the PCOs have completed their classroom instruction in Newport, they will have another week to visit the waterfront in Norfolk, San Diego, or Mayport –depending on their ship types. This week will provide opportunities for them to discuss maintenance and readiness issues with appropriate class readiness squadrons and other commands they will be dealing with in the near future.

Most importantly, this week will provide time for these future commanding officers to go to sea with ships similar to the ones they will command to hone their readiness assessment skills they have learned in the classroom.

Bataan Provides Vital Link to Haiti Relief
Release Date: 1/28/2010 3:02:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Samantha Robinett, USS Bataan (LHD 5) Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) successfully completed a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2) Jan. 27, receiving approximately 170 pallets to support Operation Unified Response.

The relief supplies have been quickly moving into Haiti from Sacagawea and USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) where they're brought ashore by amphibious ships like Bataan operating off the coast.

The supplies are ultimately distributed to the people of Haiti through close coordination with the government of Haiti, USAID, the Department of State and the United Nations.

"It's amazing," said Lt. Andre Trofort, a chaplain aboard Bataan. "There has been a great response, not just from the United States, but from the world. It feels good to know that there are so many people backing us up at home. It is affirming me that we are doing a good thing."

Supplies delivered by Bataan Jan. 27 included 80 pallets of meals-ready-to-eat, 16 Red Cross pallets of clothing, canned food and diapers and 70 Project Hand Clasp pallets of medical supplies, hygiene supplies and blankets.

Since Bataan arrived in Haiti to support Operation Unified Response, the ship has received more than 1,000 pallets of food and other items, helping to facilitate relief efforts.

"It's important that we bring these items on board for the Haitian community," said Machinist's Mate 3rd Class (SW) Sanford Darlington.

Darlington said the supplies are not only helping the people of Haiti but helping to fuel the Sailors and Marines on board through their efforts ashore.

Bataan moves relief supplies ashore by way of air cushion landing craft, landing craft utility boats and helicopters to support the overall relief efforts in Haiti.

Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) are supporting Operation Unified Response as the Amphibious Relief Mission, providing military support capabilities to civil authorities and to help stabilize and improve the situation in the wake of this disaster.

Navy Leads Haitian Harbor Assessment
Release Date: 1/28/2010 3:11:00 PM

From Naval Sea Systems Command Office of Corporate Communications

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Naval Sea Systems Command's Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV) embedded with Commander, Task Group 42.1 on board USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51) Jan. 18 to support port clearance and harbor re-opening in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

The surveys are part of the U.S. Navy's disaster response to the 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti Jan. 12. Cargo has begun flowing through Port-au-Prince's south pier terminal. Assessments of the pier and fuel terminal structures and approaches are ongoing.

SUPSALV's efforts, in conjunction with Mobile Diving Salvage Unit 2 and Underwater Construction Team 1, are designed to restore harbor operations as quickly as possible, enabling humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to be provided in support of Operation Unified Response.

SUPSALV is responsible for all aspects of ocean engineering, including salvage, diving, oil pollution response, underwater ship repair, towing and heavy lift.

Operation Unified Response Support Flows Nonstop
Release Date: 1/28/2010 8:22:00 AM

By Kaylee LaRocque, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville civilian and military personnel have been working nonstop at the airfield palletizing thousands of pounds of materials for shipment to Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response.

As of Jan. 26, NAS Jacksonville personnel have filled 22 C-130s Hercules, 11 C-40s Clippers, seven Boeing 747s and one C-17 Globemaster III with 2.3 million pounds of water, food, medical supplies, tents and radios for the relief effort in Haiti following an earthquake Jan. 12.

"Since we began supporting Operation Unified Response, we've unloaded approximately 60 semi trucks filled with water, humanitarian daily rations, tents and medical supplies and have spent days preparing them for transport and loading them onto cargo planes headed to Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and then on to Haiti," said Doug Chaney, NAS Jacksonville airfield facilities manager. "We are also supporting personnel transports to Cuba, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Haiti. VRC 30 (Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30) has been in and out of here continuously to support the Vinson. And now, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) is off the coast conducting workups so we are supporting the aircraft for their training. That plus all the C-130s coming in from National Guard units all over the country, the C-17s and 747s, we are extremely busy."

"We are working extremely close with the airfield manager at Guantanamo Bay so we don't inundate them with aircraft. We have become their holding ramp until we're cleared to send the cargo planes south. We are also trying to stay ahead of the game by having pallets ready to go when the aircraft arrive here so they leave with full loads. This has been a huge challenge with cargo issues and coordinating all the flights," continued Chaney.

"But, the NAS Jacksonville team has stepped up to help with this mission. They've pulled together and are helping in any way they can. We have no idea how long this will last, but we'll do what we need to in support of the relief efforts," added Chaney. "We've been working hand-in-hand with Defense Distribution Depot Jacksonville personnel who have been awesome. They've provided me with forklifts, drivers, pallets, strapping and anything I need to get the job done – all I have to do is make a call."

Chaney was also quick to mention the military members helping with the mission.

"Sailors from various departments and tenant commands have been extremely busy building pallets and helping in any way they can. It's taking a toll, but this is when we are at our best," he said.

NAS Jacksonville Sailors and civilians work diligently to get the job done in order to get supplies to those in need. Sam Brown, NAS Jacksonville Air Operations Department airfield facilities division cargo handler, has been working long hours unloading trucks and loading numerous aircraft in support of the relief efforts.

"We have a good supervisor here and don't have too much stress. We know what needs to be done and we do it no matter how long it takes or how many trucks come in to be unloaded. However, I wish I was in Haiti," said Brown.

Chief Logistics Specialist (AW/SW) Reuben Amarh from U.S. 4th Fleet has been working at NAS Jacksonville since Jan. 15, helping coordinate the loading of the cargo planes.

"We just keep loading these aircraft with materials until the mission is accomplished. The people here have really been great palletizing the items, moving the pallets and loading the aircraft. Everything has been running pretty smoothly," said Amarh.

A team of air traffic controllers from NAS Jacksonville's Air Department work to keep the aircraft continually coming and going in a safe, efficient manner.

"NAS Jacksonville Air Traffic Control Division has had to step up manning levels to handle the increase of air traffic operations in support of Haiti relief efforts. The airfield is supporting these efforts 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Lt. Michael Fahnestock from NAS Jacksonville's Air Department.

"What is challenging is that the controllers are working with an increase of larger aircraft such as Boeing 747s, C-130s and C-40s, which require more landing/departing separation between aircraft due to wake turbulence criteria. These additional operations are taking place along with our normal operations; however, with the experience staff on duty, there have been minimal delays," said Fahnestock.

So until the mission is complete, NAS Jacksonville personnel will continue to work together to support the Navy's participation in Operation Unified Response.

Seabees Departing to Support Haiti Relief Operations
Release Date: 1/28/2010 1:45:00 PM

By Rob Mims, Naval Construction Battalion Center

GULFPORT, Miss. (NNS) -- Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 homeported at the Naval Construction Battalion Center hin Gulfport departed Jan. 26 on board Air Force C-17 aircraft to support relief operations in Haiti after a 7.0 earthquake devastated the city of Port-au-Prince.

"The Seabees from NMCB 7 are eager to get boots on the ground in Haiti to start performing their assigned mission, said Cmdr. Jayson Mitchell, commanding officer of NMCB 7. "They've refined their plans over the past week and are poised to make an immediate and positive impact on a dire situation."

This flight is the first of four aircraft which will be loaded with personnel headed to Haiti to clear a path for aid coming into the country. Seabees will join up with some 25 pieces of heavy equipment from U.S. Navy Maritime Prepositioning Ship USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011).

"NMCB 7 has been tasked with rapid deployment of a tailored Air Detachment in support of disaster relief/recovery operations in Haiti" said Mitchell. "At this time, primary mission areas include route clearance and opening up lines of communication in order to facilitate flow of incoming aid."

NMCB 7 was tasked Jan. 13 to provide support. Since then, personnel from NCBC and the 20th Seabee Readiness Group has pulled more than 50 pieces of civil engineer support equipment (CESE) and other non-CESE items from warehouses and prepped it to fly out with the air detachment from the battalion. Due to the lack of heavy lift aircraft and congestion at the Haitian airports, the flight plans have changed.

The non-CESE and Seabees will still fly; however, now the CESE will be placed on a ship. All told more than 690 short tons or roughly 1.38 million pounds of cargo and personnel are ready to roll. Initial indications are the air detachment will be in Haiti three to six months.

"The air detachment has been training extensively throughout the past 10 months in executing contingency construction and disaster relief operations and I'm confident in their collective ability to accomplish such an important mission," said Mitchell.

This tasking comes less than a month prior to the battalion's main body deployment to Rota, Spain, the Horn of Africa and several other locations in Africa and Europe. Due to the surge in Afghanistan, NMCB 7, which was originally scheduled to deploy for six months, will now deploy for approximately 10 months.

Seabees are well-known for their humanitarian assistance and disaster recovery efforts around the world, having recently provided support for victims of hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters. Recent disaster recovery efforts include:

About 125 Seabees deployed to Pakistan from Okinawa to help clear roads and remove debris to help relief workers get to isolated areas following the 7.6 magnitude earthquake that occurred Oct. 8, 2005.

When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in August 2005, nearly 3,000 Seabees provided invaluable support to local communities. They made temporary repairs to more than 100 schools, removed 20,000 tons of debris, cleared 750 miles of roads, and delivered more than 100,000 gallons of fuel and water.

More than 135 Seabees deployed to Indonesia, Thailand and Sri-Lanka to provide humanitarian support in the wake of the massive tsunami that devastated the area in December 2004.

High-Speed Ferry Ships to Support Haiti Relief
Release Date: 1/27/2010 8:17:00 PM

By Adrian Schulte, Military Sealift Command Public Affairs

NORFLOK, Va. (NNS) -- High-speed ferry ships MV Huakai and MV Alakai are preparing to sail to Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response to provide disaster relief following the Jan. 12 earthquake.

Huakai and Alakai were originally built to serve as passenger and vehicle ferries in Hawaii but were turned over to the Maritime Administration's custody when the ferry service went bankrupt.

The ships will be under operational control of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) during Operation Unified Response.

The ships' main tasks will be to transfer equipment and personnel in the region. They are configured for the mission to each hold 450 tons of cargo and 500 passengers and can travel at a sustained speed of 33 knots.

Huakai loaded a rapid port opening package, communications gear, fork lifts, trucks, Humvees, supplies and other equipment at Fort Eustis, Va., Jan. 27. Huakai will also carry personnel from the 689th Rapid Port Opening Element, MSC's Expeditionary Port Unit Detachment and elements from the Army's 7th Sustainment Brigade. Huakai got underway Jan. 27 and is scheduled to arrive in Haiti Jan. 29.

Alakai is currently in Norfolk, Va., and is scheduled to get underway for Haiti in the next several days.

Huakai and Alakai are two of 12 ships under MSC control mobilized to date in support of humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti. These ships include hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51), oceanographic survey ship USNS Henson (T-AGS 63), maritime prepositioning ships USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011) and USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams (T-AK-3009) and dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2). In addition, three ships have been activated from the Maritime Administration's Ready Reserve Force to assist with the effort. When activated, these ships will fall under operational control of MSC.

MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, merchant mariner-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.

USS Carl Vinson Releases Haitian MEDEVAC Patients
Release Date: 1/27/2010 4:42:00 PM

From USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) released three Haitian patients Jan. 26 after they received treatment from the ship's medical staff.

The three patients suffered from a variety of injuries sustained during a 7.0 earthquake that struck Jan. 12, including a new mother, a 16-year-old boy, and a 75-year-old man.

The new mother had suffered a fractured pelvis and was malnourished and dehydrated after she and her newborn were trapped for ten days in a collapsed building before being rescued. The baby was able to survive by breast-feeding from the mother and remained in Haiti until the mother was treated and released.

The 16-year-old boy arrived onboard Carl Vinson after both his legs had been amputated at a shore medical facility. After treating his injuries, the ship provided him with clothes and a wheelchair before his flight back to Haiti.

The 75-year-old man suffers from Huntington's Disease and arrived aboard Carl Vinson with injuries including lacerations and blunt trauma.

"I'm extremely proud of the entire [medical] department." said Cmdr. Alfred F. Shwayhat, the ship's senior medical officer. "This was their time to show everyone what they could do and they did it well."

"Usually medical supports the ship's personnel and operations- this time the ship helped support medical." Shwayhat said. "Every Navy platform has to plan for a humanitarian mission, and you never know when that event will happen. We are still standing by, we're not finished yet."

Carl Vinson is conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations for Operation Unified Response under control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet (NAVSO/C4F). NAVSO/C4F is directing all Naval assets and personnel in support of Joint Task Force Haiti, the joint command element directing U.S. military capabilities support to USAID and the U.N. Stabilization Mission in Haiti.

Bataan Receives First Landing Craft MEDEVACs
Release Date: 1/27/2010 4:38:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) received patients medically evacuated from Haiti by air cushion landing craft (LCAC) Jan. 26.

Earlier that morning, Bataan had sent a six-person team of doctors and corpsmen, along with relief supplies, on an LCAC to the Lifeline Christian Ministries Mission Medical Clinic, in Grand Goave, Haiti, to assist Doctors Without Borders with the care of local Haitians requiring medical assistance.

"They provide good care, and the people of Haiti know that," said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman (SW/AW) Huben Phillips, Bataan's medical department leading chief petty officer. "Since the earthquake, the amount of patients flowing in has been more than they can handle. We wanted to help with that."

Phillips and his team immediately began treating patients, and he quickly realized there were four who needed more attention than the clinic could offer.

"I knew they needed the next level of care," said Phillips. "I knew where that care was and how to get them there."

Phillips knew the quickest way for his patients to receive the necessary care wasn't waiting for a helicopter, it was loading them into the nearby LCAC and bringing them to Bataan, sailing just off the coast.

He called the LCAC crew from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4, and the team safely transported the patients to the well deck of Bataan.

"We hadn't done that before," said Phillips.
The cycle of well deck operations that begins shortly after the crew comes to life at 6:00 a.m. and lasts well into the night, has brought pallets upon pallets of relief and aid to the people of Haiti, but this is the first time the people of Haiti have been brought by LCAC directly to the aid.

"We do what we can, get rest when we can, and we work when we have to because we still have to keep the LCACs running," said Chief Operations Specialist (SW/AW) James Hay, the LCAC craftmaster who delivered the patients to Bataan. "We were ready and waiting for them."

The medical evacuation was an unprecedented team effort and a reminder of the important work Bataan has been a part of during Operation Unified Response.

"Something like this doesn't happen every day, but nothing we're doing out here is business as usual," said Capt. Sam Howard, Bataan's commanding officer."Our Sailors on the ground in Haiti saw four people in need of urgent medical care, and they brought them to our medical team the fastest way they knew how. There was no panic; there was no second guessing; they just got the job done, and they did it together."

Phillips said corpsmen and doctors aboard Bataan will continue to volunteer where they're needed.

"We're here to support. We're here to help."

Bataan is part of the Amphibious Relief Mission, along with USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), in support of Operation Unified Response in Haiti after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated the island nation Jan. 12.

Navy Ships Provide Critical Resources in Haiti
Release Date: 1/27/2010 4:34:00 PM

By Iam Graham, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy continues to play a major role in the Defense Department's efforts to help the people of Haiti, a senior naval officer said Jan. 27.

The Navy is providing hospital ships and off-shore sea bases of operation for Marine Corps units working on the ground, and is carrying millions of pounds of food, medical equipment and other supplies to help the Haitian people recover from the Jan. 12 earthquake that devastated the island nation, Navy Rear Adm. Ted N. Branch, commander of Carrier Strike Group 1 aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), told participants in a "DoDLive" blogger's roundtable.

The Navy is a small part of a broad international effort in Haiti, working in conjunction with dozens of non-governmental organizations, international groups and the Haitian government itself, Branch said. Because some of those organizations have worked in Haiti for years on other humanitarian missions, he added, they are familiar with local customs.

"What we're striving to do, and being able to do in many cases, is partner with [other organizations] and let them tell us the best places for relief distribution, the best contacts we need to make in the local community and local government and use their experience to our best advantage," Branch said. "We get them into the process and we keep them in the process [of providing aid and supplies]."

Fostering relationships among the sailors, Marines, civilian aid workers and Haitian population is central to the relief effort, Branch said. Creating an environment the Haitians can uphold when no more aid is needed is one of the primary goals for the Navy and for the operation as a whole, the admiral said.

"Obviously, we're working here as an international team – we're working through the [United Nations] and through the government of Haiti," Branch said. "The objective is to make sure the Haitian people are able to sustain, and the organizations that are helping them in that effort are fully in the mix, and in the lead, as we go forward."

So far, Branch's strike group has performed 1,979 flights, nearly 1,600 of which were mission-related operations, delivering personnel and supplies. Medical evacuations made up 375 of the sorties.

These flights made up "the bulk of the vertical lift used" in the Navy's effort, he said.

Branch said the Navy as a whole has brought more than a million pounds of cargo to Haiti, including 87,000 gallons of water, nearly 162 tons of food, 345,400 pounds of medical supplies, 75 tons of support equipment and 3,300 people to help in relief efforts.

Branch's group - which consists of 12 ships deployed to Haiti, including the Carl Vinson Strike Group ships, the USS Nassau (LHA 4) and USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious Ready Groups and the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) - is expecting a lengthy deployment. While no estimates have been given regarding the duration of operations in Haiti, it's been made clear by many officials that Operation Unified Response Haiti won't be a quick turnaround.

As long as they're needed, Branch said, his ships will stay there to help.

"We'll continue performing the missions and supporting the functions we've done since we arrived," he said. "In the 12 days we've been here, we've seen a lot of improvement, and we're still making a difference. Today is better than yesterday, and tomorrow will be better than today."

U.S. Postal Service to Honor Four Distinguished Sailors with Special Stamps
Release Date: 1/27/2010 2:47:00 PM

From Naval History and Heritage Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Postal Service will issue "Distinguished Sailors stamps" Feb. 4 to honor four Sailors who served with bravery and distinction during the 20th century.

William S. Sims, Arleigh A. Burke, John McCloy, and Doris Miller were selected for the honor.

The stamps will be unveiled in a ceremony at a First-Day-of-Issue Ceremony to be conducted at the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Vice Adm. William S. Sims served as commander of U.S. Naval Forces in European waters during World War I. He was an outspoken reformer and innovator who helped shape the Navy into a modern fighting force. After his service, Sims continued to write and lecture about naval reform until his death in 1936, at which time the New York Herald Tribune declared that he had "influenced our naval course more than any man who ever wore the uniform." The Navy has named three destroyers after Sims. The most recent, USS W.S. Sims (DE-1059), was commissioned in 1970.

According to the Postal Service, the William S. Sims stamp features a detail from a photograph of Sims (1919). Beside the photograph is a depiction of the crest of the destroyer escort USS W. S. Sims (DE-1059), which was commissioned in 1970.

Adm. Arleigh A. Burke was one of the top destroyer squadron commanders of World War II. He had an equally distinguished post war career in which he played a major role in modernizing the Navy and guiding its response to the Cold War.

When Burke died in 1996, he was hailed as a "Sailor's Sailor" who defined what it meant to be a naval officer: "relentless in combat, resourceful in command, and revered by his crews."

The Arleigh A. Burke stamp features a detail from a photograph of Burke (1951). Beside the photograph is a depiction of the crest of the guided missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51), which was commissioned in 1991 as the first in a whole class of destroyers.

Lt. Cmdr. John McCloy was described by a shipmate as "like a bull" who couldn't be stopped. He has the distinction of being one of the few men in the nation's history to earn two Medals of Honor for separate acts of heroism.

McCloy retired from active duty in 1928 after a 30-year career in the Navy and "a lifetime of service on all the seven seas," and died in 1945.

In 1963, the Navy commissioned a destroyer escort, USS McCloy (DE-1038), which was named in his honor.

The John McCloy stamp features a detail from a photograph of McCloy (circa 1920). Beside the photograph is a depiction of the crest of the destroyer escort, USS McCloy (DE-1038), which was commissioned in 1963.

Petty Officer Doris Miller has been given the title of "the first African American hero of World War II." Miller became an inspiration to generations of Americans for his actions at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

Although he was only the first of a number of African Americans to be recognized for their heroism in World War II, Miller is singularly remembered for providing inspiration to a campaign for equal recognition and opportunity for blacks in the military, a campaign that bore fruit in 1948 when then-President Truman ordered "that there shall be equality and opportunity for all persons in the Armed Forces."

The Doris Miller stamp features a detail from a photograph of Miller (1942). Beside the photograph is a depiction of the crest of the destroyer escort USS Miller (DE-1091), which was commissioned in 1973.

USS Samuel B. Roberts Departs Congo
Release Date: 1/26/2010 4:27:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Terry Spain/ USS Samuel B. Roberts Public Affairs

POINTE-NOIRE, Congo (NNS) -- USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) departed the Republic of the Congo Jan. 26 after a seven-day Africa Partnership Station (APS) West port visit.

Sailors trained side-by-side with members of the Congolese Navy on small boat maintenance and handling, automatic information system (AIS), technology, and combat-lifesaving.

"I'm glad I was able to help train members of the Congolese Navy in first aid. Many of them have never done CPR. Hopefully with the training they received they can share [what they learned] with their counterparts and help save lives," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Travers Leger.

During the visit, Sailors also completed two community relations (COMREL) projects including renovations of Pointe-Noire II High School and Diosso Primary School.

"We were very well received at each of the COMREL sites. More than 100 Sailors volunteered for the COMRELs, which we completed in two days," said Lt. j.g. Jonathan Black, command chaplain aboard Samuel B. Roberts. "The best part of the COMREL was knowing that we were able to make people's lives better."

Samuel B. Roberts delivered two pallets of medical and hygiene supplies to Complex Creche Garndere de Voumvon, a local orphanage, during a Project Handclasp cermeony attended by Cmdr. Chuck Sellers, commanding officer of Samuel B. Roberts and Alan Eastham, U.S. ambassador to the Republic of the Congo.

Samuel B. Roberts also hosted a reception for distinguished guests, including Eastham, Prefect of Pointe-Noire Honore Packat, Mayor of Pointe-Noire Roland Bouity Viaudo and Military Region Commander Gen. Rene Boukaka.

After the reception, Sailors enjoyed the food, culture and tours, as well as a friendly game of soccer against the Congolese Navy team.

"I really enjoyed the country. The people were really nice, and the embassy did an outstanding job organizing events for us. We had a chance to play soccer with one of their professional teams. The experience was great," said Operations Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Englert.

Samuel B. Roberts has provided training exercises and COMREL projects to many West African countries as a part of APS West, to include Gabon, Sierra Leone, and Senegal. APS is an international initiative developed by Naval Forces Africa to improve maritime safety and security with African partner countries.

Samuel B. Roberts is a guided-missile destroyer homeported in Mayport, Fla. The ship is on a scheduled deployment to the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

Commodore Conveys Gratitude for Multinational Effort in Haiti
Release Date: 1/26/2010 4:29:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Wilson, USNS Comfort Public Affairs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- The commodore of Combined Task Group 41.8, in port off the coast Haiti, expressed gratitude and appreciation for the men and women dedicated to the support of the battered nation in the multinational relief effort named Operation Unified Response Jan. 24.

Haiti was devastated by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Jan. 12 that left more than 100,000 dead and innumerable more in need of food, water and medical supplies.

"This is a mission we can all be proud of," Capt. Rodelio Laco said. "This group helping Haiti is composed of military, civilian, non-governmental organizations and medical personnel from around the world. We all should be proud of the assistance that we have been able to give to the Haitian people. It will take all of these organizations to make a dent in this situation."

Laco said this has been his most rewarding tour of duty in over 25 years of naval service. Currently, his charge is the mission of the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), tasked to provide medical care for the uncountable many who were injured during the initial earthquake and its aftershocks.

"We are here to help. Comfort was in Haiti last year and we are here to help friends during difficult times," Laco said. "Everyone is here to help."

Comfort was undergoing repairs in Baltimore Jan. 14 when President Barack Obama issued the executive order to get underway to assist in this humanitarian mission. The ship left only three days later.

"This is the quickest a group has ever come together. The mission is hard work and there is much to do but it's uplifting," Laco said. "I have heard no complaints [from the crew of the Comfort]. I am proud of everyone on board. Everyone has an important job and we cannot accomplish our mission without everyone continuing to contribute their time and efforts."

"Comfort has never been tested like this before," said Capt. Larry Jackson, Laco's chief of staff. "It is awe-inspiring how every able-bodied person has risen to the challenge."

Laco said the response from the people of Haiti has been overwhelmingly positive. The optimistic attitude of the Haitians is driving the multinational effort to work hard and to achieve more in a shorter period of time.

"I cannot stress enough that this is not one group taking the lead, it is a worldwide network of friends that will help," Laco said. "Without the participation of everyone, we cannot succeed."

Center for Surface Combat Systems Provides Training to Support Navy's Newest Ship
Release Date: 1/26/2010 4:28:00 PM

From Center for Surface Combat Systems and Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- Six years of training program development came to fruition when the second ship in the revolutionary Littoral Combat Ship class, USS Independence (LCS 2) was commissioned in Mobile, Ala., Jan. 16.

The Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS), part of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), played a significant role in the ship's development by leading the LCS Program training plan that will enable the ship's crew to conduct global operations in support of the Maritime Strategy.

A 419-foot aluminum trimaran, Independence is the first of its design in the surface fleet. The ship is part of an innovative manning construct that reduces crew size, demanding each Sailor maintain high levels of proficiency in multiple fields. Although about the same physical size as a traditional Navy frigate with a crew of 200, the Independence is staffed by a crew of only 40 Sailors that can be augmented by detachment specialists for specific missions.

"LCS is the future of our surface Navy," said Vice Adm. D. C. Curtis, commander, Naval Surface Forces. "This program will complement the strengths of larger warships. LCS will be a deterrent of green and brown water threats; the flexibility, versatility, and smart design of Independence make it well suited for joint operations."

"The development of LCS training to enable the ship's capabilities has truly been a cross-enterprise project," said Capt. Stephen Hampton, the second of two CSCS commanding officers to oversee the LCS training project. "Capt. Roger 'Rick' Easton, who I relieved, was the first. He and our CSCS team laid the groundwork for the new LCS training construct, definitions, requirements, and training pipelines. My challenge has been to take the foundation that Capt. Easton laid, and refine those training requirements, as well as introduce system-centric procedures that can be measured with qualification metrics, measures, and standards. It was critical to identify training systems that support a continuum across the range of required maintenance, operations, and employment skills and abilities so that our Sailors are prepared to fight and win."

To ensure LCS Sailors are well-prepared to operate their revolutionary platforms, an LCS training pipeline was developed to teach fundamental systems knowledge. The pipeline is already proving effective for the crew of USS Freedom (LCS 1), scheduled to deploy next month a full two years ahead of schedule. LCS systems training commenced for Independence's rotational blue and gold crews in 2005.

Since the inception of training, CSCS learning sites have provided operations, combat, and weapon systems training totaling more than 2,900 training days to Independence crewmembers. This equates to more than one-fourth of all the training received by Independence crewmembers.

A Train-to-Qualify (T2Q) process was defined that connects the initial LCS training model to Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS). T2Q is a new concept for the surface force that shifts qualification training from the ship to shore training, meaning that LCS Sailors report aboard ready to stand their watch and execute assigned duties.

"LCS 2 PQS is different from PQS on traditional ships, by removing subjectivity," said Hampton. "It employs Objective Measures, Metrics and Standards (OMMS) that require trainee performance to be measured against specific criteria and specific procedure. OMMS ensures that each trainee achieves a common standard that results in the LCS commanding officers and fleet leadership having confidence in the abilities of the new personnel they receive."

The LCS Shore-Based Training Facility (SBTF), a simulator operated by CSCS, is the final step in the LCS Train to Qualify process. Robert Shifflet, director of training at facility, and his team of nine instructors administer LCS Capstone Training.

"The training is unique," said Shifflet. "The simulator is designed to look and feel like an LCS ship's bridge while maneuvering at sea. It integrates synthetic radar scenarios with a corresponding video display that creates a very life-like tactical training environment for Integrated Command Center (ICC) and bridge watchstanders.

"The fully integrated training is the first of its kind in surface warfare," added Shifflet. "It is unique in that it delivers bridge and ICC coordinated command and control procedures for platform, system, and people employment."

"The LCS class training structure, training system approach, and training process, particularly the development of high fidelity SBTFs in the Fleet Concentrate Areas (FCAs) similar to that of the aviator and submarine community, is a postitive step forward for the surface force," added Hampton. "In the future, as the training matures, LCS Sailors will be ready to operate and employ LCS systems against a more realistic set of scenarios; perhaps better than any other class in surface ship history."

USS Eisenhower Relieves USS Nimitz to Continue Navy Support to Coalition Troops in Afghanistan
By USS Eisenhower and USS Nimitz Public Affairs
January 26, 2010

GULF OF OMAN - The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG) relieved the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group as Commander, Task Force 50 Jan. 25.

"The Eisenhower Strike Group is ready to support any requirement for troops on the ground in Afghanistan and execute the U.S. Maritime Strategy in the region," said Rear Adm. Phil Davidson, Commander, Eisenhower Strike Group.

"The Eisenhower, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, and all the ships in the strike group are committed and ready to continue the superb effort that Nimitz Strike Group carried out to increase security and stability throughout the region."

"The Nimitz has done an amazing job, and the Sailors aboard IKE are trained and ready to fill behind them," said Capt. Dee Mewbourne, Commanding Officer USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. "Taking over from Nimitz, we will continue to improve the security and stability in this part of the world through the outstanding professionalism of our Sailors."

The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group has operated in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations since Sept. 18. with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 aircraft flying more than 2,600 combat sorties and 15,296 cumulative flight hours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

"I am very proud of the Strike Group's support to coalition forces in Afghanistan, our aircraft launched and executed with thoughtful precision, fused to the directives of the supported commander," said Rear Adm. John W.

Miller, Commander, Nimitz Strike Group. "I am equally proud of our contribution to counter-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa, protecting critical Iraqi infrastructure in the North Arabian Gulf and the wide range of support provided to ensure maritime security here.

"Through our operations and training in 5th Fleet, we enhanced cooperative relationships with our regional partners who are key to the Maritime Strategy," said Miller.

Ships of the CSG endeavored to create a lawful maritime order by deterring piracy, protecting critical infrastructure and conducting Maritime Security Operations throughout the region.

"Everyone in the Nimitz-CVW 11 team contributed during our time here on the line," said Capt. Paul O. Monger, Nimitz' commanding officer. "We generated a 99.62 percent sortie completion rate for OEF, our aircraft were there for coalition forces on the ground every day - that was due to the collective efforts of everyone on board. We saved lives and helped bring security and stability in the region."

Like Nimitz, Eisenhower will provide 30 percent of the close air support missions flown to protect coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan.

Eisenhower CSG is comprised of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, embarked Carrier Air Wing 7, embarked Destroyer Squadron 28, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Hue City. Ships assigned to DESRON 28 include the destroyers USS Farragut, USS Carney and USS McFaul. These ships will be assigned to tasks forces throughout the region aimed at improving regional and maritime security.

Squadrons from CVW 7 include the "Puking Dogs" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, the "Jolly Rogers" of VFA 103, the "Rampagers" of VFA 83, the "Wildcats" of VFA 131, the "Night Dippers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5, the "Patriots" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, the "Blue Tails" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW)121 and the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.

Helicopter detachments include the "Proud Warriors" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 and the "Swamp Foxes" of HSL 44.

The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment to the region. Operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity.

Bataan's First 'Miracle' Patient in Haiti Returns Home
Release Date: 1/25/2010 2:36:00 PM

By Ensign Caroline Hutcheson, USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The medical team aboard USS Bataan (LHD 5) said goodbye to one of the first patients the team medically evacuated (MEDEVAC) in the Haiti relief efforts Jan. 24, reuniting the nine-month-old boy and his mother with their family in the vicinity of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Wilson Siere, flown with other rehabilitated patients to a receiving depot ashore, gathered an affectionate following among the medical staff and others during his time in the ward aboard Bataan.

"Everyone had some 'Wilson-time' built into their day," said Cmdr. William C. Wallace, officer-in-charge of Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 8. "He was on the (commanding officer's) regular schedule for a while."

The boy, extremely malnourished, dehydrated and suffering gastrointestinal complications, was crawling around in the medical ward after only a few days of treatment.

"Baby Wilson was our first miracle," said Senior Chief Corpsman Huben L. Phillips, leading chief petty officer of Bataan's medical staff, and added that the boy quickly became a part of the Bataan family. Phillips rescued the child on a MEDEVAC mission to a small village outside Port-au-Prince, where he was sent to find a young woman with pelvic fractures, who had recently delivered a child who did not survive.

The team walked miles through fields after their vehicle could not make it through the roads anymore. They found the woman in a gathering of adults with foam mattresses for beds and sheets strung up as homes.

"Then someone said, 'Senior, you have to look at this baby,'" Phillips said. "They put him in my arms, and he was lifeless."

An interpreter called the child's mother, and the team was back to Bataan for the first emergency medical evacuation of the ship' relief efforts.

"He was so very lethargic and weak, dehydrated and starving, and today he is the inspiration that lifts our spirits," said Senior Chief Corpsman Brian E. Wenzel of FST-8. "He smiles, laughs, loves to touch your face and explore his new friends."

Wenzel said the boy is developed at about a 6-month age but continues to gain weight and remain alert.

"He survived one of the world's most horrific catastrophes and has served as a reminder of the resilience and strength of these people even as an infant," Wenzel said.

Once Baby Wilson was well enough to be transferred back to Haiti, the ship's commanding officer, Capt. Sam Howard, asked Phillips if he would escort the boy and his mother home.

The team transported Wilson and other patients to a landing zone manned by non-government organization workers and joint military personnel, where vans with interpreters transfer Haitians affected by the earthquake back to their villages and towns.

Wilson will be reunited with his father and two older brothers.

It was an emotional goodbye for the medical team and everyone who had grown to know the child.

"I said goodbye to him alone on the ship," Phillips said. "I told him I want him to become a man who could affect change in the world. To be in a place so desolate at this time, only a man of great character would arise."

Phillips said he held Wilson the entire helicopter ride to the island. He handed the child to his mother and she looked at him, shaking her head with tears streaming down her face.

"The interpreter turned to me, and said 'she just doesn't have the words.'"

Gunston Hall Sailors Help Haitians in Quake Aftermath
Release Date: 1/25/2010 5:05:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) John Stratton, USS Gunston Hall Public Affairs

KILLICK, Haiti (NNS) -- Sailors from USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) have been providing aid at the Haitian Coast Guard base to people affected by the earthquake since Jan. 21.

"What we're doing ashore is awesome and is creating the conditions to quickly and safely treat, and when needed, transfer wounded Haitians in need of critical medical care," said Gunston Hall Command Master Chief Duke Owings. "It's a big job, but my Sailors are up for the challenge."

Gunston Hall is one of many units sent to the region after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake rocked the Caribbean island Jan. 12 to support Operation Unified Response, the joint U.S. military operation providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in Haiti.

Gunston Hall began transporting daily 40-man working parties ashore Jan. 21. These Sailors fill a variety of jobs, including stretcher bearers, watchstanders at the operations center, assisting the medical personnel, and general housekeeping of the clinic to help it stay organized.

For many, it was their first glimpse into the devastation and into the desperation of the injured to receive needed medical treatment.

"This is very overwhelming," said Quartermaster Seaman Joseph Johnson, from Murietta, Calif. "You can never quite prepare yourself mentally for something like this. We just got here and already I've made several litter carries from the clinic to the landing zone."

While Sailors like Johnson help carry litters of wounded, others like Chief Quartermaster (SW/AW) Deenicia Canty, from Lake City, Fla., make sure the wounded are properly cared for while awaiting transport to USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Bataan (LHD 5) or to civilian hospitals.

"I have prior medical experience so what I've been able to do here is pass out medication and change out bandages on an as-needed basis," said Canty. "The other stretcher bearers are also trained to switch out bandages and apply topical solutions to treat whatever wounds these people may have."

With the exception of those who are critically injured arriving at the Haitian base, all needing treatment at the clinic must be taken to a triage area and evaluated. Fire Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Katrina Thomas, from Austin, Texas, makes sure the lines at the triage check-in area run smoothly.

Thomas said she was only there a few minutes when she realized how many people she had already seen.

"It's very rewarding to know you've already made an impact, so early in the day," stated Thomas.

Gunston Hall is conducting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations for Operation Unified Response under control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet (NAVSO/C4F). NAVSO/C4F is directing all Naval assets and personnel in support of Joint Task Force Haiti, the joint command element directing U.S. military capabilities support to USAID and the U.N. Stabilization Mission in Haiti.

USS Fort McHenry Treats MEDEVAC Patients from Haiti
Release Date: 1/25/2010 2:45:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Rachael L. Leslie, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

NEPLY, Haiti (NNS) -- The medical team aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) treated five severely injured emergency medical evacuees flown from Baie de Grand Goave, Haiti, Jan. 23.

Maintaining around-the-clock care, Fort McHenry's medical department personnel stabilized all five critical-care patients who were injured during the earthquake, one with life-threatening injuries, said Cmdr. Nate Moyer, Fort McHenry's commanding officer.

"What the Fort McHenry medical team executed last night was nothing short of exceptional," said Moyer. "When we take in patients from outside the lifelines, we become increasingly stressed to meet the needs of our critically wounded patients as well as still being able to meet the medical needs of the crew. Our medical team last night was able to accomplish it all."

In the early morning Jan. 24, the patients were stable enough to board an MH-60S helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 for transport to a larger medical facility.

Sea-based amphibious ready forces, like the ones aboard Fort McHenry, bring added capabilities to aid the relief efforts in Haiti without taxing the already strained infrastructure ashore.

The Fort McHenry team includes the ship's crew, members of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, Assault Craft Unit 2, Beach Masters Unit 2 and Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadrons (MSRON) 6 and MSRON 4. The group's equipment is comprised of heavy-lift and utility helicopters, trucks and humvees, assault amphibious vehicles and logistics capabilities to include water purification and limited medical support to further enhance the humanitarian relief efforts ashore.

Fort McHenry is currently participating in Operation Unified Response as part of USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious Relief Mission, providing military support capabilities to civil authorities to help stabilize and improve the situation in Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Jan. 12.

Carter Hall Deck Department 'Delivers" in Haiti
Release Date: 1/25/2010 2:41:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Hendrick L. Dickson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

USS CARTER HALL, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) arrived in Haiti Jan. 18 to provide equipment, supplies and personnel from the ship to the beach and the Haitian people in support of Operation Unified Response.

Deck department Sailors are responsible for getting the much-needed aid off the ship in a timely and safe manner, utilizing Landing Craft Unit (LCU), Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC), helicopters or small boats.

"My Deck department is by far the best in the fleet. I'm extremely proud of the Deck department," said Carter Hall Commanding Officer, Cmdr. George Doyon. "They are the Sailors I depend on to make sure Carter Hall accomplishes its mission. They are dedicated and motivated. I ask a lot from them every time the ship leaves the pier, and they exceed my expectations every time."

That job has never been more important than it is now, in the wake of the 7.0 earthquake in Haiti Jan. 12. The Navy has deployed 11 ships and more than 8,000 Sailors in response to support the delivery of aid. Carter Hall is one of the ships at the forefront of this operation.

"Every day is different," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class (SW) Kyle R. Luna, Deck department leading petty officer. "We never know what we're going to do – flight operations, stern gate marriages, VERTREPs (vertical replenishment) – we never know. There is really no need for a plan of the day. Whenever they need something on the beach or have to send something here, our department is ready to go."

"Every time we launch an LCU it feels good," said Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Qualls. "Because I know it's going to help some people. It's going to brighten their day. We're saving lives and I'm proud of that."

It's been non-stop deck operations since Carter Hall arrived on station.

"My Sailors put in some long hours," said Luna, "but I haven't heard one complaint. I believe that's because they know why we're here. That's why they want to get the job done. They want to do what they have to do to support."

"Everybody's tired and everybody would like a break," added Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Terrance Hobbs, 2nd division leading petty officer. "But we have a mission at hand and we've been tasked with completing that mission."

Carter Hall is supporting Operation Unified Response as part of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission. Carter Hall, along with amphibious dock landing ships USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), is participating in Operation Unified Response, providing military support capabilities to civilian authorities, stabilizing and improving the situation in Haiti.

Nassau Arrives in Haiti
Release Date: 1/24/2010 11:31:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Coleman Thompson, USS Nassau Public Affairs

HAITI (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) arrived off the coast of Haiti on Jan. 23, and began providing humanitarian assistance immediately when they received medical casualties from the earthquake-stricken nation.

Nassau was originally scheduled to deploy to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility to support Maritime Security Operations, however after the recent earthquake that decimated the island nation of Haiti the ship was tasked with assisting the U.S. forces already providing humanitarian relief.

Immediately upon arrival at the port town of Port-au-Prince, several patients were flown to Nassau and taken down into the ship's medical department for treatment.

"I never dreamed I would do something like this when I was trained as a stretcher-bearer," said Boatswain's Mate Seaman Anuradha Sharma, a native of Queens, N.Y., stationed on Nassau. "I feel terrible for what has happened to Haiti, but I'm grateful I'm able to help in any way I can."

Providing this type of assistance is nothing new to Nassau, as she provided aid to Galveston, Texas, after a hurricane hit the city in 2008.

"We've had a lot of training for humanitarian assistance," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW) Steve Banner, a native of Bristol, Tenn. "I was on board for Galveston, so I've had this experience before. In Haiti the language barrier makes it a little more tasking, but my shipmates have really stepped up and provided translators."

Nassau is deployed as part of the Nassau Amphibious Ready Group/24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (NAS ARG/24MEU) in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility. The NAS ARG/24 MEU is comprised of embarked Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48), and the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19).

USS Los Angeles Decommissions at the Port of Los Angeles
Release Date: 1/24/2010 11:20:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea A. Radford, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

LOS ANGELES (NNS) -- After 33 years of patrolling the oceans, USS Los Angeles (SSN 688) was decommissioned in its namesake city, Los Angeles Jan. 23. The ceremony was held as a part of the five-day long Los Angeles Navy Days.

Los Angeles is the fourth naval ship to be named after the City of Los Angeles. The submarine's crest is recognizant of that, bearing four dolphins representing the four ships.

President and co-founder of Navy Days Los Angeles Grant W. Ivey said, "It is sad to see the Los Angeles go, but we are looking forward continuing our ties with the Navy with the commissioning of the USS California."

During his remarks USS Los Angeles Commanding Officer Cmdr. Steve Harrison said, "The Los Angeles is the 'first and the finest,' but her crew is her metal that makes her great."

The oldest attack sub of the 45 remaining submarines of the 62 boat class, Los Angeles received many honors, including eight Battle "E" awards, eight Meritorious Unit Citations, and one Navy Unit Citation.

Los Angeles was launched on April 6, 1974 at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Newport News, Va. and was commissioned on Nov. 13, 1976, as the 67th attack submarine and the 109th nuclear powered submarine in the U.S. Navy. In addition to 18 deployments, Los Angeles has participated in four Rim of the Pacific multinational exercises, along with nine Eastern Pacific underway periods.

As part of Commander, Submarine Squadron Seven, (CSS-7), the 360-foot submarine completed its first Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment from April 15, 1979 to June 6, 1979.

In 1992, Los Angeles temporarily changed her homeport to Mare Island Naval Shipyard in Vallejo, Calif. in order to conduct an engineering refueling overhaul. In addition to the overhaul, it received the latest state-of-the-art sonar and fire control systems, as well as the Navy's newest reactor controls equipment. After 31 months, the boat was returned to operational status and moved back to Pearl Harbor in March 1995, and attached to Submarine Squadron One.

Los Angeles concluded its last WESTPAC deployment Nov. 19, 2009. It is now scheduled to be sent to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash. for inactivation. Inactivation will include defueling the reactor and safely disposing of the remainder of the submarine.

Navy Aircraft Carrier Playing Major Role in Relief Efforts
Release Date: 1/24/2010 11:04:00 AM

By Christen N. McCluney, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson is playing a pivotal role for operations in support of relief efforts in eathquake-striken Haiti.

"The people that come on here have broken bones and wounds. You just can't imagine it unless you are here looking at it the number of people injured," Capt. Bruce H. Lindsey, commanding officer, USS Carl Vinson told bloggers during a Jan. 23 "DoDLive" bloggers roundtable. "As long as there are injured people needing our care we will stay here as long as it takes."

Before USNS Comfort arrived, the medical team of USS Carl Vinson conducted initial triage of patients before providing life-saving medical and surgical services.

The ship also serves an alternative landing site when the Comfort's landing spots are full. Patients with critical needs are brought to the Vinson to provide immediate assistance.

"We want to mitigate the suffering from the Haitian people from this earthquake, so we are spread out trying to help as many people as possible."

The Carl Vinson also boasts a variety of helicopters that include 19 CH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters and SH-60C Sea Hawk helicopters, that can be used for a variety of purposes from transporting cargo and supplies to picking up patients in small remote areas.

Lindsey discussed how a group in Michigan e-mailed the Carl Vinson and said they had been contacted by personnel on an island outside of Port-au-Prince that needed help. The Carl Vinson sent an aircraft to the island and found an area for the SH-60 to land. The helicopter transported three casualties from the island because they had the capability to land in such a small area.

"We are probably doing 180 to 240 landings a day off of this ship," Lindsey said. "The Sailors on the flight deck and in maintenance are doing the hard work making sure they are getting into the country."

One of the main things the ship transports is medical supplies and water. The ship has transported over 30,000 gallons of water. A group of Sailors on his ship also created a water tree, where they took piping and created spigots, and use the endless supply of water from the ship to fill containers with water for those in need in Haiti. He said these Sailors volunteered their time to do this and fill five-gallon jugs with water by hand. Because of their volunteer efforts each helicopter that leaves the ship has 32 of these jugs on flight.

Lindsey credits the success of the ship to the crew, including Creole speakers who he says have been "enormously helpful" when airlifting patients. "Having someone speaking their own language has been critical to our success and has comforted patients," he said. "This again reflects our Sailors."

"My Sailors on board, every one of them wants to go ashore to help them. I have to tell them I would love for them to all go there, but I do need a few of them to stay back on the ship to continue the operations here," he said. "It's great to see such an outpouring of volunteerism from today's Sailor. America should be very proud of the Sailors that they have. They're great human beings."

Merchant Vessel Repels Pirate Attack
By Commander, Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs
January 24, 2010

MANAMA, Bahrain - North Korea-flagged, Yemeni owned MV Napht Al Yemen 1 repelled a pirate attack on January 20 in the Gulf of Aden near the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC).

The initial distress call made by MV Napht Al Yemen 1, was received by US Navy destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91), currently assigned to Combined Task Force (CTF) 151. USS Pinckney immediately responded by sending a SH-60B Seahawk helicopter to intercept the pirate skiff. However, the embarked security team on board the MV Napht Al Yemen was able to repel the maritime piracy attack.

The suspected pirate skiff was identified through the combined efforts of USS Pinckney's helicopter as well as maritime patrol aircraft belonging to Combined Task Force 465, which is part of the European Union forces in the Gulf. The pirate skiff was subsequently stopped and boarded by the boarding team from USS Porter (DDG78). This was the first successful boarding since the Singapore Navy took over command of CTF 151, also on January 20.

Commander CTF 151, Rear Admiral Bernard Miranda, Royal Singapore Navy applauded the efforts by all parties in coordinating the response to the piracy attack. "Whilst the primary responsibility for the security of merchant vessels lies with industry, close coordination among all military forces operating in the region is a critical factor in harnessing the capabilities of these forces to respond to such incidents," Miranda said.

Commercial and civilian vessels are strongly encouraged to incorporate counter-piracy "best practices" to prevent acts of piracy when operating in dangerous waters. Those best practices include maintaining a 24-hour lookout for suspicious activity, reporting any suspicious activity to authorities, engaging in evasive maneuvering and speed during a pirate attack, and contracting civilian security teams. Embarked sucurity teams have proven to be the most effective practice to defend against pirate attacks.

CTF 151 is a multi-national task force established in January 2009 to conduct counter piracy operations under a mission based mandate to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. It operates in the Gulf of Aden and the east coast of Somalia.

Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), operating out of Bahrain, continues to urge mariners to employ defensive measures when transiting the Horn of Africa, Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.

Bataan LCACs Land Ashore to Bring More Relief in Haiti
Release Date: 1/23/2010 10:43:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman 3rd Class Ash Severe, USS Bataan Public Affairs

GRAND GOAVE, Haiti (NNS) -- Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 Air Cushioned Landing Crafts (LCAC) left the well deck of multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and arrived on the beaches of Haiti Jan. 22.

They brought 24 vehicles ashore for the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to carry relief supplies.

Opening the beach and bringing in vehicles to navigate the inferior roads has relief flowing by air, land and sea.

"The efforts of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission are an awesome display of the Navy-Marine Corps team bringing relief to those in need," said Capt. Thomas Negus, commodore, USS Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission. "It is truly a 'Global Force for good.'"

The landing craft moved eight Light Armor Vehicles (LAV) and 16 High-Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles in seven trips by three LCACs.
With today's landing, ACU-4 is ready to continue to offload the 22nd MEU's personnel and equipment.

"Right now we are standing by to offload the rest of the MEU and their equipment. It's a process with a lot of moving parts, but now that (LCACs) are able to help, it should go a bit faster." said Klimko.

Due to the LCAC's ability to carry large amount of personnel, supplies, and vehicles, the landing craft's debut was a welcome addition to the relief effort.

"We're glad to get in there," said Klimko. "A lot of good work has been done on the air side, but we're glad to finally be using the landing side's equipment and personnel."

Amphibious Relief Mission ships Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) are deployed to provide military support capabilities to civil authorities and to help stabilize and improve the situation in the wake of this disaster.

Carl Vinson Touches Hearts, Saves Lives at Haitian Clinic
Release Date: 1/22/2010 6:11:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Candice Villarreal, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

CARREFOUR, Haiti (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 medical personnel provided emergency medical assistance Jan. 21 to hundreds of injured Haitian citizens at the Killick Haitian Coast Guard Clinic in Carrefour, Haiti.

Sixteen Carl Vinson Sailors have been working closely with members of the U.S. Army, Air Force and Coast Guard to treat almost 200 patients a day for orthopedic injuries, fractures, blunt trauma, wound infections and burns.

"The earthquake made many people sleep in the street without [their] families and people everywhere [were] very hurt," said Culdon J. Miguelsonn, a Carrefour resident and translator for the U.S. military at Killick. "But when we [saw] America come to help us, we slept with joyous hearts. People [were] running and saying 'America is here! America is here!' and 'God is good.'"

The clinic, swarmed with hundreds of injured earthquake patients daily whose injuries ranged in severity, became a triage center and operating room immediately after the military arrived. Helicopters performing medical evacuations (MEDEVACs) from Killick transported nearly 150 of the most severely injured patients to Carl Vinson, USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), USS Bataan (LHD 5), Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Sacred Heart Hospital in northern Haiti.

"I think we are giving the people of Haiti a lot of hope in a time of desperation," said CVW-17 Flight Surgeon Lt. Kristina Rogish. "We are doing everything we can, around-the-clock, to show them the good will America has for all in need, and they trust us to take care of them."

Victims' friends and family members carried patients in on makeshift stretchers fashioned from doors, wheelbarrows, blankets and chairs for the Sailors to treat. Food and water were distributed to patients awaiting treatment, and chaplains prayed for and comforted Haitians of all ages.

"Seeing the patients smile and saying 'God bless you' touches us most," said Rogish. "They're so appreciative."

Carl Vinson and CVW-17 arrived in Haiti Jan. 15 to support Operation Unified Response by providing humanitarian aid and emergency assistance after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake rocked the island nation. Operation Unified Response is a joint military operation providing U.S. military capabilities in support of international relief operations in Haiti.

"The U.S. Navy's efforts in Haiti, and even Killick, have been profound," said Rogish. "We responded very quickly, redirected [from our original course], and arrived in record time. In the end, though, it's the joint effort between all branches of our military that have been crucial to every success we continue to see."

Operation Unified Response is part of a larger U.S. response to a request from the government of Haiti for urgent humanitarian aid. The U.S. military is working closely with the Deptartment of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the international community to provide life-sustaining services to the people of Haiti. All military efforts are in support of government of Haiti, USAID, and the U.N. Stabilization Mission.

Commander Discusses the Role of USS Bataan in Humanitarian Efforts
Release Date: 1/21/2010 3:59:00 PM

By Christen N. McCluney, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS Bataan (LHD 5) is in Haiti as part of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission to participate in Operation Unified Response.

"We are pleased to be able to exercise our medical capability in support of those who need it in Haiti," Capt. Samuel Charles Henry-Howard, commanding officer of Bataan, told bloggers and journalists during a Jan. 20 "DoDLive" bloggers roundtable.

Prior to diverting to Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response, the ship returned from a seven-month deployment to 5th and 6th Fleet's Area of Responsibility Dec. 8.

"We had just finished leave … resting up from seven months of deploy[ment]," said Howard. "Late Tuesday evening, a decision was made for us to go to a 48-hour ready for sea, and by Wednesday morning we were directed to get underway 36 hours thereafter."

Howard said that his crew is prepared to stay for the foreseeable future.

"We'll be here for as long as we're directed and happy to do so," said Howard.

Along with the medical capabilities the Bataan offers, Howard added he has six French Creole speakers and nearly a dozen sailors who speak French who will assist when patients are brought aboard Bataan.

As of Jan. 21, the Bataan has 22 patients aboard the ship for medical care and is establishing a triage process ashore so that they can bring aboard earthquake victims that need a certain level of care.

The patients on the ship vary in age from a new born, whose cry was extremely gratifying to the crew, to a 70-year-old woman who is being treated and is resting comfortably after being found buried under rubble, said Howard.

The ship has been augmented with 78 additional personnel for medical services.

"We are currently getting them oriented, and they will join the medical capacity we have shortly," Howard said. "When all medical personnel arrive aboard the ship, we will have a team of 117 that will be able to fully operate four operating rooms."

Howard said the purpose of the ship's mission in Haiti is to get things to people the best way possible.

The 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit is also using the Bataan as its headquarters and uses the flight deck of the ship to support helicopter operations for an ashore relief distribution center.

"We are operating on flight deck 24 hours a day," Howard said. "All during the day we are flying and accepting all comers."

Howard said that he has prepared his crew to be in Haiti until directed otherwise.

"As more arms and legs are needed, we have an entire crew that is excited to help," said Howard.

He also said that, for some Sailors, the mission is personal. Several crew members are of Haitian descent, and they are continuing the mission in spite of losing family members and having a personal tie to Haiti.

"We are pleased to be the arms and legs of the United States to join in the international effort to help Haiti," said Howard. "This is the kind of thing that makes being in the Navy extremely rewarding."

PWD GTMO Prepares Airfield to Support Logistics Mission in Haitian
Release Date: 1/21/2010 11:57:00 AM

From Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southeast engineers and support staff from Public Works Department (PWD) Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) provided rapid assistance that made it possible to open McCalla Field in GTMO, Cuba, Jan. 19 in support of Joint Logistics Hub GTMO.

Cmdr. Wendy Halsey, PWD GTMO officer-in-charge, and her team met with pilots to determine what actions were needed to reestablish the windward side airfield for helicopter operations.

"The team was able to mobilize the contractor, who worked street sweeping operations overnight. We acquired and moved windsock in five hours and coordinated with base security to enclave the site," said Halsey.

In a matter of only 18 hours, the team also cleared off bushes and trees from the site, emptied nearby warehouses for staging operations, coordinated forklifts for the airfield, acquired flight line vehicles, emptied warehouse for crew workspace, set-up light carts and established a refueling point for lights and forklifts.

U.S. Naval Station GTMO is serving as a hub for logistics and personnel providing humanitarian assistance to Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response. PWD GTMO provides facilities engineering and management, utilities engineering and acquisition, technical support for facilities service contracts and transportation and equipment management for the installation.

USS Higgins Supports Relief Effort from Coast of Haiti
Release Date: 1/21/2010 4:16:00 PM

From Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Eight miles from Port Au Prince, Haiti, Sailors aboard San Diego based USS Higgins (DDG 76) worked around the clock Jan. 20 to bring relief to earthquake victims.

Higgins crew members are providing basic medical treatment at a joint field hospital by carrying injured personnel to helicopters and overhauling medical facilities to improve efficiencies.

Higgins also offered support to the hospital ship USS Comfort (T-AH 20) and provided housing for the shore-based medical teams from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70).

"Over the last two days, we have been asked to do everything from bandage wounds to rearrange a facility to create an additional operating room," said Command Master Chief Bobby Maddox. "Anything these Sailors have been asked to do, they have stepped in and done it, and done it very well."

More than 10,000 Sailors and Marines are involved in the Haiti humanitarian relief effort. Approximately 17 ships, including Higgins and USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), also homeported in San Diego, 48 helicopters and 12 fixed-wing aircraft are engaged in delivering relief supplies for distribution to affected areas.

Higgins was diverted to Haiti while returning to San Diego from the Mediterranean on the last leg of an around-the-world deployment that began July 16. The ship and her 271-member crew arrived the day after the 7.0 magnitude earthquake.

"While we are anxious to see our families again," said Cmdr. Carl Meuser, Higgins commanding officer. "As long as we are able to contribute and as long as we are needed here, we are going to stay."

Higgins and Bunker Hill's assistance is part of what is expected to be an extended and in-depth mission to assist the people of the earthquake-ravaged region.

Coalition Counter-piracy Task Force Changes Command
Release Date: 1/21/2010 4:23:00 PM

From Commander, Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Coalition counter-piracy unit Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 held a change of command ceremony aboard USS Hopper (DDG 70) while pierside in Manama, Bahrain, Jan. 20.

Singaporean Navy Rear Adm. Bernard Miranda relieved U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Scott E. Sanders, who has commanded the counter-piracy task force since Aug. 13, 2009.

Miranda is scheduled to join his flagship, the USS Farragut (DDG 99), in Djibouti throughout the week of Jan. 25-29.

Having patrolled the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin for over 160 days, Sanders marked the conclusion of a highly successful deployment at the ceremony. During his tenure in command, CTF 151 helped coordinate the safety of over 15,000 vessels transiting an area of water that covers roughly 1.1 million square miles. In order to accomplish this task, Sanders and his staff held regular meetings and interactions with both coalition vessels and independent deploying nations, such as China and Russia, to ensure the most effective use of patrol assets.

Testament to the enhanced interaction amongst nations is the fact that CTF 151 and their international partners were able to ensure that less than .001 percent of these transiting ships became victims of the maritime crime of piracy.

Speaking to the importance of international teamwork, Sanders said, "Our collaboration at sea makes us infinitely stronger in the fight against piracy ... Global maritime partnerships are at work each and everyday in the Gulf of Aden."

Miranda assumed command Jan. 20 of the deployed staff, which is made up of coalition personnel from a wide variety of nations. During the ceremony, Miranda took the opportunity to thank Sanders for his leadership, mentorship and friendship over the preceding months.

"It is a great honor and privilege for me to be given command of CTF 151," said Miranda. "I will build on the fine work of my predecessors, Rear Admirals McKnight, Howard, Bener and Sanders. I will engage our partners, especially the European Union and NATO, in order to make the seas safer."

CTF 151 is a multinational task force established in January 2009 to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission based mandate to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. CTF 151 operates in the Gulf of Aden and the east coast of Somalia.

CTF 151 has had a significant effect disrupting pirates in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin. Although the number of piracy attempts has increased in the past year, the number of successful attacks has been reduced by 40 percent during the same time period.

"While the main focus of my command remains the mission to deter and disrupt piracy in the Gulf of Aden and the Somali Basin, I will also put emphasis on the readiness and optimization of all assets and the well being of all people involved in the day to day tasks in this mission," said Miranda. "My team and I look forward to being part of the Combined Maritime Forces Headquarters and the USS Farragut."
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George H.W. Bush Sailors Assisting in Haiti Relief Effort
Release Date: 1/21/2010 4:22:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan A. Bailey, George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) departed Norfolk, Va., to join the relief efforts in Haiti Jan. 21.

The 22 Sailors joined seven Haitian Creole-speaking Bush Sailors who departed Jan. 19.

The Bush Sailors are among the more than 12,500 U.S. military personnel already supporting Operation Unified Response, helping to meet the most urgent needs of the Haitian people following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated the country Jan. 12.

Air-Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW) Adam Keller got the call Jan. 18 to deploy. Along with air traffic controllers from other aircraft carriers, Keller will provide critical assistance for the air field at Guantanamo Bay being used as a staging area for logistics and personnel support to Haiti.

"It's great to know I'll be proactively engaged in the positive effort and be able to use my skills to help out," said Keller, who will miss his daughter's baptism during the deployment to Haiti.

Keller is also leaving ship at a critical time as its sea trials and flight deck certification are just around the corner.

"I'm confident in the team who will stay behind will do a great job getting certified," Keller said.

Hull Technician 3rd Class Jimmy Murray, a certified rescue swimmer, also jumped at the opportunity to go to Haiti. "There has to be someone to help when people can't help themselves," Murray said.

Sailors will assist in the humanitarian effort including distributing food and water as well as providing logistical support.

Bush is scheduled for redelivery to the fleet upon completion of sea trials, scheduled in January.

Coalition Counter Piracy Task Force Changes Command
By Commander, Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs
January 20, 2010

MANAMA, Bahrain - Singaporean Navy Rear Adm. Bernard Miranda assumed command of the Coalition counter-piracy unit, Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, in a ceremony aboard the destroyer USS Hopper (DDG 70) while pier-side in Bahrain today. Rear Adm. Miranda relieved US Navy Rear Adm. Scott E. Sanders, who has commanded the counter piracy task force since August 13, 2009. Rear Adm. Miranda will join his flagship, the USS Farragut (DDG 99), in Djibouti next week.

Having patrolled the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin for over 160 days, Rear Admiral Sanders marked the conclusion of a highly successful deployment with today's ceremony. During his tenure in command, CTF-151 helped coordinate the safety of over 15,000 vessels transiting an area of water that covers roughly 1.1 million square miles. In order to accomplish this task, Rear Adm. Sanders and his staff held regular meetings and interactions both Coalition vessels and independent deploying nations such as China and Russia to ensure the most effective use of patrol assets. Testament to the enhanced interaction amongst nations is the fact that CTF -151 and their international partners were able to ensure that less than .001 percent of these transiting ships became victims of the maritime crime of piracy.

Speaking to the importance of international teamwork, Rear Adm. Sanders said, "Our collaboration at sea makes us infinitely stronger in the fight against piracy.Global maritime partnerships are at work each and everyday in the Gulf of Aden."

In today's ceremony, Rear Adm. Miranda assumed command of the deployed staff, which is made up of coalition personnel from a wide variety of nations. During the ceremony, Miranda took the opportunity to thank Rear Adm. Sanders for his leadership, mentorship and friendship over the preceding months. "It is a great honor and privilege for me to be given command of CTF 151," Miranda said. "I will build on the fine work of my

predecessors, Rear Admirals McKnight, Howard, Bener and Sanders. I will engage our partners, especially the EU and NATO, in order to make the seas safer."

CTF 151 is a multi national task force established in January 2009 to conduct counter piracy operations under a mission based mandate to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations. It operates in the Gulf of Aden and the east coast of Somalia.

CTF 151 has had a significant effect disrupting pirates in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin. Although the number of piracy attempts has increased over the past year, the number of successful attacks has been reduced by 40% over this same time.

"While the main focus of my command remains the mission to deter and disrupt piracy in the Gulf of Aden and the Somali Basin, I will also put emphasis on the readiness and optimization of all assets and the well being of all people involved in the day to day tasks in this mission," said Miranda. "My team and I look forward to being part of the Combined Maritime Forces Headquarters and the USS Farragut."

USNS Comfort Begins Work in Haiti, Prepares To Expand Medical Capability
Release Date: 1/20/2010 11:16:00 PM

By Bureau of Navy Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy hospital ship, USNS COMFORT (T-AH 20), arrived off the coast of Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 20 and began receiving injured patients from the local hospitals and international medical facilities currently in Haiti.

The ship deployed from its homeport in Baltimore Jan. 16 with an overall crew of 850 that included a medical team comprised of 550 medical and non-medical support staff, including Navy doctors, nurses, corpsmen, technicians and support staff ready to provide a host of medical services including primary care, trauma care, pediatric care, orthopedic care and more.

The embarked medical support team will be augmented by 350 additional team members who are scheduled to arrive on board the ship in the next few days. With the additional medical staff, the hospital ship will have the capability to increase available beds from its current configuration of 250 -- set up during the ship's transit -- to nearly 1,000, including 880 ward beds, 80 intensive care unit beds and 20 post anesthesia care unit beds.

The augmented medical staff will also enable Comfort to expand its operating room capability from 6 to 11. A twelfth operating room is specifically designed to support advanced interventional radiology procedures.

The ship will initially receive urgent surgical patients. Patients transported to the hospital ship will have a family member escort, if available. After treatment, the ship's medical personnel will determine the patient's follow-on care. Additionally, medical teams from the hospital ship will move ashore to help in casualty evaluation and are prepared to triage crush wounds and burn injuries and other health issues.

Comfort is part of a larger United States response to the government of Haiti request for humanitarian assistance. The U.S. effort is being coordinated by the Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development.

Comfort was last in Haiti in April 2009 for 12 days as part of Continuing Promise 2009.

Maritime Force Serves as Cornerstone of Relief Operations in Haiti
Release Date: 1/20/2010 11:03:00 PM

From Defense Media Activity - Anacostia

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A sea-based force of 8,500 Sailors, 11 ships and 42 aircraft is currently supporting the immediate delivery of aid to earthquake victims in Haiti as part of operation Unified Response.

Operating a few miles off the coast of Haiti are USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70); USNS Comfort (T-AH-20); USS Normandy (CG 60); USS Bunker Hill (CG 52); USS Higgins (DDG 76); USS Underwood (FFG 36); USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51); and the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. The Bataan ARG includes embarked Marines of the 22 Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and USS Bataan (LHD 5), USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43); USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

In addition, Sailors from Maritime Civil Affairs, Maritime Security, Expeditionary Logistic Support, Seabee units, and Combat Camera, as well as other Navy divers and engineers are supporting disaster response efforts with diverse capabilities including assessment, construction, security, civil affairs and logistical support.

To date, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps forces supporting relief efforts have conducted 336 air deliveries, delivered 32,400 gallons of water, 532,440 bottles of water, 111,082 meals and 9,000 lbs of medical supplies. Most importantly, U.S. and international search and rescue teams have rescued 69 earthquake victims, mostly Haitian citizens.

Navy medical professionals aboard USNS Comfort received their first patients Jan. 20, delivered by a MH-60 "Knighthawk" helicopter from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) in the middle of the night. The two patients, a six-year-old boy and a 20-year old man injured in the earthquake, arrived aboard the ship shortly after 10 p.m.

USNS Comfort will provide full hospital services to support U.S. humanitarian assistance and disaster response to the people of Haiti. Comfort comes with a full spectrum of hospital services to support disaster relief efforts including: primary, trauma, pediatric and orthopedic care services. The 894-foot long ship has six fully operational operating rooms. Comfort currently has a 250 acute care bed capacity and 40 ICU beds.

The Navy's contribution will be reinforced and expanded in the upcoming days with the arrival of the following units:

- USNS Henson (T-AGS-63), an oceanographic survey ship, and MV Alakai, a high speed ferry, are scheduled to arrive in the next few days.

- USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2), a dry cargo ship with two SH-60S helicopters, and USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011), a dry cargo ship capable of offloading cargo without a port are scheduled to arrive in the next week.

- The Nassau Amphibious Ready Group/24 Marine Expeditionary Unit (NAS ARG/24 MEU), including USS Nassau (LHD 4), USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), USS Ashland (LSD 48), and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are scheduled to arrive in the next week. (

- SS Cape May (T-AKR 5063), a heavy lift ship; USNS PFC Dewayne Williams (T-AK 3009), a container & roll-on/roll-off ship; and MV Huakai, a high speed ferry, are scheduled to arrive in the next few weeks.

Operation Unified Response is part of a larger U.S. response to a request from the government of Haiti for urgent humanitarian aid. U.S. Southern Command is working closely with the Dept. of State, U.S. Agency for International Development and the international community to aggressively provide life-sustaining services to the people of Haiti. All military efforts are in support of USAID, which is orchestrating U.S. government contributions to the relief mission.
The last time the Navy supported U.S. disaster relief efforts in Haiti was in September 2008. After the island nation was hit by consecutive hurricanes and tropical storm, the amphibious ship USS Kearsarge was diverted to assist with the delivery of 3.3 million pounds of internationally-donated aid to communities isolated by flooding, mudslides and damaged roads.

Bataan Receives MEDEVAC, Treats 19 Injured Haitians
Release Date: 1/20/2010 10:52:00 PM

From USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHA 5) received 19 injured Haitians on seven MEDEVAC helicopters beginning at 12:30 p.m. Jan. 20, and immediately began providing medical care.

A CH-53E Super Stallion from Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14, a Coast Guard MH-60, and five MH-60S Knighthawks from Helicopter Sea Combat squadrons 22, 26 and 46 medically evacuated the earthquake victims from the Port-au-Prince region in Haiti.

"Our medical mission is in full swing," said Cmdr. William C. Wallace, officer in charge of Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 8, which embarked Bataan for the relief efforts.

Bataan began receiving additional medical personnel Jan. 19 from throughout the fleet to augment the Bataan medical staff and FST-8.

"Some of these personnel began treating patients the minute their feet hit the deck of Bataan," Wallace said.
There are a total of 21 patients currently being treated in Bataan's medical facilities.

Bataan arrived off the coast of Haiti Jan. 18, and immediately began providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in support of Operation Unified Response. The Amphibious Relief Mission includes Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50).

Operation Unified Response is part of a larger U.S. response to a request from the government of Haiti for urgent humanitarian aid. U.S. Southern Command is working closely with the Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the international community to provide life-sustaining services to the people of Haiti. All military efforts are in support of USAID, which is orchestrating U.S. government contributions to the relief mission.

CNO Approves Service Dress Khaki Uniform Design, Initial Wear Policy
Release Date: 1/20/2010 5:23:00 PM

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHNGTON (NNS) -- Service Dress Khaki (SDK), featuring a contemporary design, was approved by the Chief of Naval Operations for development as an optional uniform for E-7 and above, as announced in NAVADMIN 020/10.

It is anticipated the uniform will be available for purchase in approximately 18 months, after issues identified in the wear test are resolved.

NAVADMIN 020/10 includes initial details of occasion for wear policy.

Costs for the uniform will be determined following the final development phase, including a second wear test to evaluate final uniform components, manufacturer selection and final manner of wear decisions. It is anticipated this process will be complete by fiscal year 2012.

Two SDK uniform designs were developed and tested by 125 Sailors from April 2008 to October 2009. The testing included a traditional design, based on the original SDK uniform disestablished in 1975, and a contemporary uniform design, which incorporated more updated design features, such as an unbelted waist and peaked lapels.

Once available, SDK will be approved for optional wear in lieu of summer white and service khaki when wearing a tie in civilian attire is appropriate, such as in an office environment. It will be available by special order from Navy Exchange uniform centers for purchase.

New Radar Detection Lab Will Enhance Navy's Ability to Protect Nation
Release Date: 1/20/2010 11:19:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jay C. Pugh, Pacific Missile Range Facility Public Affairs

PACIFIC MISSILE RANGE BARKING SANDS, Hawaii (NNS) -- On January 19, the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii began construction of an Advanced Radar Detection Laboratory (ARDEL) facility.

The ARDEL project will test and evaluate a new radar system planned for the next generation of surface combatant vessels strengthening the Navy's ability to detect, track, and provide information required to engage ballistic missiles at greater distances than current systems in use as well as more elusive long-range air threats. The advanced technologies of the new radar incorporate various aspects of ballistic missile defense (BMD), air defense (AD), and surface warfare (SuW).

The purpose of the ARDEL facility is to test advanced radar technologies including the Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR). According to the AMDR Major Program Manager, Capt. Larry Creevy, AMDR is a next generation radar system designed to address the BMD, AD, and SuW capability gaps identified in the Maritime Air and Missile Defense of Joint Forces (MAMDJF) Initial Capabilities Document (ICD). AMDR is envisioned to counter current and emergent Ballistic missile, air-to-surface and surface-to-surface missile threats.

"This advanced radar project will not only further the Navy's ability to protect and serve our nation and our allies, but also strengthen PMRF's status as a diverse and important training and test and evaluation resource for our country," said PMRF Commanding Officer Capt. Aaron Cudnohufsky.

The Department of the Navy chose PMRF for the new ARDEL facility due to Barking Sands' ability to provide integrated range services in a modern, multi-threat, multi-dimensional environment, from space to the ocean floor that ensures the safe conduct and evaluation of training and test and evaluation missions. PMRF was the only potential build location that met the required test and evaluation criteria that could completely support the proposed development of a land-based testing site while providing targets that are representative of the threats Navy vessels may encounter in their operational environment. Test and evaluation of the new radar technologies would include the use of targets of opportunity on the PMRF range.

"PMRF has been working closely with the ARDEL project for some time and breaking ground on the construction of this facility will put us a step closer to actually realizing a new capability here," said Cudnohufsky.

The two-story ARDEL facility will consist of a radar tower, mechanical and electrical rooms, radar chiller room, control rooms, equipment storage and loading areas, data processing room and other supporting spaces. The facility will be built with a "silver" designation of the Navy's Leadership Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building standards. Developed in the 1990s by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is a certification system for environmentally friendly construction, indicating the project meets or exceeds government mandates as well as industry standards.

Buildings can achieve certified, silver, gold or platinum designation of LEED compliance. The Navy requires all construction and major renovation projects to be compliant to LEED silver standards or better.

The traditional image of a radar antenna is the rotating, parabolic antenna as seen on top of airport control towers and aircraft carriers. In contrast, the two radars of the ARDEL facility are similar to the radars of the Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) radar system, currently operating at PMRF, and to the AEGIS system in use on Navy vessels.

"This facility will be the birth place for the most advanced radar the world has ever seen in the most capable Navy the world has ever seen. It will fulfill missile defense requirements recently identified by President Obama," said Creevy.

The ARDEL facility will have six permanent staff that could be augmented to the projected peak number of 40 persons during radar testing. The facility would be manned 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year.

Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Pacific awarded the $18.5 million, firm-fixed price contract to Tomco Corp. of Honolulu for design and construction of the ARDEL facility. The facility is expected to be completed by August 2011.

Higgins Crew Makes a Difference in Haiti
Release Date: 1/20/2010 4:20:00 PM

By Lt. j.g. Rick Chernitzer, Africa Partnership Station Public Affairs

KILLICK, Haiti (NNS) -- On their way home to San Diego from a scheduled deployment in the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility, Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) crew members were diverted to Haiti in the wake of a devastating earthquake which struck the country Jan. 12.

"Even in light of being on our way home, none of my Sailors complained about the job we had before us," said Higgins Command Master Chief Bobby Maddox. "We came here to help in any way we can."

The crew provided aid by assisting medical personnel from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and several U.S. Coast Guard cutters. A Haitian Coast Guard base was turned into a medical center where patients were evaluated, treated and, if needed, medically evacuated to whatever hospitals were still operational. Higgins crew members transported patients from the clinic to the staging site, helped keep the clinic area orderly and clean. Higgins Sailors also helped clear an airfield for helicopters to land.

"It's sad about what happened here and the reason it's important we came here to lend a hand," said Yeoman 3rd Class Joshua Baine. "We have a duty."

"So many people on the ship volunteered (to go ashore to help), it was incredible," said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Justin Wright. "We're on our way home from deployment, but when something like this happens, you know you have to spring into action and do what is right."

Higgins' crew members were also instrumental in setting up a command and control structure ashore, according to Lt. Chris Cummins, Higgins weapons officer.

"Basically, we're utility players now, plugging in where we can," said Cummins.

Higgins is part of a massive military effort, known as Operation Unified Response, to provide relief to the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

USS Bataan Ready to Help in Haiti
Release Date: 1/20/2010 11:26:00 AM

By Christen N. McCluney, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Wasp-class Amphibious Assault ship USS Bataan (LHD-5) is in Haiti as part of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission to participate in Operation Unified Response.

Operation Unified Response is a joint U.S. military effort designed to provide provide relief in response to the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean nation Jan. 12.

Bataan Senior Medical Officer Cmdr. Melanie Merrick, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 8 Officer in Charge Cmdr. William Wallace and FST 8 Surgeon Lt. Cmdr. Seon Jones spoke to bloggers and journalists during a Jan. 19 "DoDLive" bloggers roundtable.

"The primary goal is getting people on the beach and getting a site secure," Merrick said. "There is obviously a lot of demand for the supplies and we are getting security in place to have a more permanent residence and be able to distribute supplies."

Merrick added that aid will last as long as it's needed.

Bataan arrived in the Port-au-Prince area Jan. 19 and began unloading supplies to shore, including beach clearing equipment, bulldozers and rubble removers.

Bataan's mission is to render aid and take supplies ashore, and not all of the work in which the ship will be involved is medical related.

The ship does, however, have a small surgical team with four operating rooms, 13 available intensive care unit beds and 38 available ward beds.

Additionally, Bataan's medical team is also expecting another 87 medical personnel to help augment the surgical team, allowing physicians to rotate and provide constant staffing for the medical facilities on board, according to Jones.

"We are expecting to receive patients aboard Bataan, but the primary goal is getting relief ashore," said Wallace. "It's simply, the biggest thing to enter the area from a medical perspective."

Wallace added that U.S. Navy medical professionals are coordinating efforts to ensure no one ship is overwhelmed.

The Military Sealift Command vessel USNS Comfort (T-AH-20) is scheduled to arrive Jan. 21. The hospital ship has 1,000 beds and 600 medical personnel, bringing the total number of U.S. military medical professionals in the Operation Unified Response area of operations to 1,500.

Bataan's medical team is ready for patients and is on standby.

"We want to do the greatest good for the greatest amount of people and a lot of times that includes a lot of moving parts," said Jones.

Bataan also has experience in previous disasters and humanitarian relief missions. The amphibious vessel was the first U.S. Navy ship on-scene in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina, a category-4 hurricane, made landfall, and spent 19 days supporting the relief efforts by moving more than 1,600 people to safety and delivering more than 160,000 pounds of supplies to the Gulf Coast of the United States.

Carl Vinson Reunites 12-Year Old Haitian with Family
Release Date: 1/20/2010 4:03:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason Thompson, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON – At sea (NNS) -- USS CARL VINSON – At sea – Kimberly Lazare, a 12-year old Haitian girl affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti, has reconnected with family members in Canada through a telephone call placed from the USS Carl Vinson's (CVN 70) medical facility.

The ship's medical staff initially treated Kimberly Lazare to remove pieces of concrete from her skull. Following a post-operation consult, neurosurgeon and CNN medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and Los Angeles Pediatric Hospital's Surgeon-in-Chief Dr. Henri Ford assisted in a second operation on board Carl Vinson.

Vallès Latry, Lazare's cousin, contacted CNN with his information. The news agency then contacted Carl Vinson to confirm. Shortly thereafter, a speakerphone was brought into the ship's medical ward and a phone call was placed to Montreal where Latry was eagerly anticipating a ring.

Speaking through a translator, Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Wiley Charles, also of Haitian birth, Lazare reconnected with her family in the aftermath of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that took her mother and sister.

"Her family asked her if she's being treated and if she's eating. They wanted to know if she's in any pain," said Charles. "They also were thankful she's still alive and wanted to tell her how thankful they are she was able to get out and get treated."

Lazare had not been in contact with any member of her family since being medically evacuated to Carl Vinson on Jan. 16.

Ship's Surgeon, Lt. Cmdr. (Dr.) Kathryn Berndt reassured Latry the ship would remain vigilant.

"The departments on the ship will continue to work to locate her father," Berndt said. "We don't know when or where, but she will be reunited with her family."

With the arrival of the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) in the region, Berndt expects Lazare will receive the same care she has received on the Carl Vinson but also expressed the ship's company's joy in treating her.

"The entire crew of the ship was glad to take care of Kimberly," said Berndt.

Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing 17 are conducting humanitarian and disaster relief operations as part of Operation Unified Relief after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake cause severe damage near Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12, 2010.

Carl Vinson Sends Desperately Needed Water Ashore
Release Date: 1/20/2010 4:15:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shentel M. Yarnell and Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Heather Roe, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At sea (NNS) -- Using a new water dispensing system they designed, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Sailors were able to significantly increase the amount of water - nearly 3,000 gallons - Carl Vinson can deliver ashore while operating off the coast of Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response.

Carl Vinson is currently supporting Operation Unified Response under the command of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet.

Carl Vinson had been producing fresh water and filling containers for delivery ashore, but Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier realized a method of filling the containers faster was needed.

Over the course of two days, Carl Vinson Engineering Department hull technicians created a unique 12-faucet pure water dispenser. Sailors then built and assembled two of these faucet systems, nicknaming the water distribution process "Operation Hydration."

"We have the capabilities and manpower to help," said Engineering Repair Division Leading Petty Officer Hull Technician 1st Class (SW/AW) Harmon Hazelwood. "It is a crisis and we are maximizing water usage to the best of our abilities."

Hull technicians drew up plans for the faucets, factoring in water pressure and efficiency. They next cut the pipes, calculating where the holes should be placed for even distribution, and then pieced the system together.

The dispensers were partially assembled in Vinson's Engineering Department's pipe shop and then taken to the flight deck for final assembly. The hoses used to supply the dispensers with potable water are normally used to wash down aircraft, and the dispensers were built for use on the flight deck or in the hangar bay, allowing Sailors to easily load full water containers into helicopters for distribution to those in need.

A total of 80 water spouts can now be used at the same time to fill containers, a significant improvement from previous, less efficient means. The two new water dispensers are capable of producing 120 gallons of clean water per minute, effectively allowing Carl Vinson Sailors to fill a 5-gallon container in 36 seconds.

Since the dispensers began operating Jan. 18, Carl Vinson Sailors have filled and loaded more than 800 five-gallon containers of water. The Nimitz-class carrier desalinizes more than 400,000 gallons of water each day, 200,000 gallons of which are excess and can be loaded into water containers and distributed ashore.

Hull technicians involved in the water dispener system's construction are happy to have had a part in the relief efforts.

"It's great to help other people," said Hull Technician 3rd Class Brandon Key, who helped assemble the dispensers. "It's a good feeling, helping in their time of need."

Operation Unified Response is a large joint military operation directed by Joint Task Force Haiti, and is designed to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the people in Haiti affected by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the island nation Jan. 12.

Comfort Receives First Patients
Release Date: 1/20/2010 7:33:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Jackson, USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) Public Affairs

USNS COMFORT, At Sea (NNS) -- Navy medical professionals aboard USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) received their first patients Jan. 20, delivered by an MH60S "Knighthawk" helicopter from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) in the middle of the night.

Comfort's medical staff sprung into action following a message over the hospital ship's general announcing system informing shipboard personnel that a flight carrying patients was imminent.

"The team did an outstanding job with the two patients who arrived tonight," said Cmdr. Timothy F. Donahue, director of surgical services. "Just the way a good trauma resuscitation should be conducted."

The two patients, a six-year-old boy and a 20-year old man injured in the earthquake that devastated Haiti Jan. 12, arrived aboard the 1,000-bed hospital ship shortly after 10 p.m. An initial examination confirmed that both of the patients suffered from serious injuries.

"The first two patients arrived and were taken straight to casualty receiving," said Capt. Richard Sharpe, a trauma surgeon aboard. "The first was a Haitian boy who suffered a blunt injury to his pelvis. He is stable and doing well.

"The second patient was a male who suffered some blunt injury to his head and arm. He won't need surgery for either injury, so that is good news.

"However," said Sharpe, "we discovered spinal cord fluid leaking out of his ear, which is concerning. But based on his computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, his brain looks normal and is functioning properly."

Following initial assessments, both patients were moved to the intensive care unit for further observation.

Prior to arriving on station just a few hours away from the Caribbean nation of Haiti, Comfort Sailors spent much of their three-day transit from their home port of Baltimore, preparing for patients by conducting drills, reviewing procedures and conducting frequent exercises concentrating on the variety of afflictions they felt they were likely to encounter during their disaster relief efforts during Operation Unified Response.

"We have anticipated treating for extreme dehydration, infections from open wounds, orthopedic injuries and crush injuries," said Lt. Cmdr. Daniel D'Auora, division officer for the casualty receiving department aboard Comfort. "We have two cases of injuries at this moment, but we are also focused on the basic medical problems that may be exacerbated by the lack of medical care."

Doctors aboard the Vinson took this same level of care in providing initial treatment to the young boy, which helped extend the child's ability to fight for his life.

"A surgeon aboard Vinson performed the initial surgery on the young boy, who sustained blunt trauma to his pelvic region during the earthquake or subsequent aftershocks," said Sharpe. "That kind of trauma is unusual for such a young child, but upon his arrival to Comfort he was responsive and doing well."

Comfort plans to receive many more patients during their indefinite stay in the region in addition to landing medical teams and providing supplies, including water.

The disaster relief and humanitarian operation capabilities of the ship were expanded from the initial total of 600 medical personnel to man a 250-bed hospital to 1,000 hospital beds and more than 1,000 Sailors to meet the needs of the approximately three million Haitians affected by the earthquake.

In addition to Comfort, U.S. response assets participating in Operation Unified Response include Carl Vinson, USS Normandy (CG 60), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Underwood (FFG 36), USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51), USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) and the USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). Bataan ARG consists of the embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

USS Bataan Receives MEDEVAC, Treats Three Injured Haitians
Release Date: 1/19/2010 10:51:00 PM

From USS Bataan Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHA-5) received two medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) helicopters at approximately 8:15 p.m. Jan. 19, with three injured Haitians aboard who received immediate medical care from the Bataan medical team.

U.S. Navy and Coast Guard search-and-rescue crews responded to two separate distress calls in the vicinity of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

An MH-60S Knighthawk from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 medically evacuated two patients with potentially life-threatening injuries just before a Coast Guard HH-65A Dolphin carrying a third patient arrived aboard Bataan.

"This is why we train," said Cmdr. Melanie Merrick, senior medical officer aboard Bataan. "We are equipped for these types of injuries to provide resuscitation and stabilization. We will continue to assess the individuals and go from there."

The first two injured were a 24-year-old woman and a infant boy in need of urgent medical care. The third patient is a 70-year-old woman. Merrick said all three patients are stable and receiving medical treatment.

Bataan arrived off the coast of Haiti Jan. 18, and immediately began providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in support of Operation Unified Response. The Amphibious Relief Mission, a sea base from which relief operations are staged off the coast of Haiti, includes Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50).

Operation Unified Response is part of a larger U.S. response to a request from the government of Haiti for urgent humanitarian aid. U.S. Southern Command is working closely with the Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the international community to aggressively provide life-sustaining services to the people of Haiti. All military efforts are in support of USAID, which is orchestrating U.S. government contributions to the relief mission.

Gunston Hall Arrives in Haiti to Assist Earthquake Victims
Release Date: 1/19/2010 10:22:00 AM

By Lt. j.g. Rick Chernitzer, Operation Unified Response Public Affairs

KILLICK, Haiti (NNS) -- USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) anchored off Haiti Jan. 18 to begin providing relief supplies and assistance as part of Operation Unified Response.

"We were ready on arrival and began making an immediate difference," said Cmdr. Fred Wilhelm, commanding officer of Gunston Hall.

At anchorage near the Killick Haitian Coast Guard Base, Gunston Hall sent boats ashore laden with people and supplies for use at the base clinic.

"There is a Coast Guard unit there that has been there several days," said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Tom Guest, an independent-duty corpsman and one of seven medically-trained personnel to go ashore. "The most important thing we could do for them was bring supplies. They were running low on some stuff and what we brought they began to use immediately."

The ship provided rice, dry spaghetti, bottled water and other dry goods, as well as approximately $20,000 worth of much-needed medical supplies to organizations already providing care. Some of the material included thermometers, surgical lights, syringes, medications and bandages.

The ship's doctor and Guest also provided assistance in caring for five of the patients, while other Sailors helped organize the pharmacy and aid in activities to make conditions better for the patients and caregivers. The ship's chaplain also performed spiritual services for the wounded.

"A lot of us were excited because this is what we trained for and what we wanted to provide," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW) Jessica Toothe.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Guy Leppry, a French speaker, provided translation services.

"It made me feel like a team player, knowing what I could do is critical to helping patients," said Leppry. "But it was busy; there was never a break."

"We'll continue to do what we can," Wilhelm said. "We're here to help."

Gunston Hall was scheduled to deploy to Africa to take part in Africa Partnership Station (APS) West when it got the word to be part of Operation Unified Response, providing support to Haitian earthquake victims.

A Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship, Gunston Hall recently completed a mid-life modernization availability. The work included major upgrades to the ship's control system, local area network and machinery control system, propulsion systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, as well as replacement of the ship's boilers and evaporators with an all-electric services system.

Africa Partnership Station West is an international initiative developed by Naval Forces Europe and Naval Forces Africa that aims to improve maritime safety and security in West and Central Africa.

USS Reuben James Deploys to the Western Pacific
Release Date: 1/19/2010 5:26:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- More than 250 Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Reuben James (FFG 57) departed Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a deployment to the Western Pacific Jan. 15.

Reuben James, one of eight ships assigned to Commander, Destroyer Squadron 31, will be on an independent deployment to the 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

While on deployment, Reuben James will be conducting various missions, including a joint fisheries patrol with the U.S. Coast Guard and local nations in Oceania to protect vital natural resources. The ship will conduct humanitarian relief and goodwill projects and participate in several multinational military exercises to build relationships and strengthen regional stability.

Reuben James' commanding officer, Cmdr. David Miller, was very optimistic about the deployment, noting that the crew and the ship are readily prepared for the tasks ahead.

"It has been a tough past few months with all the inspections, but the crew is more than prepared for this deployment and I have no doubt that they will perform nothing short of outstanding," said Miller. "We're ready to go and we're proud to serve."
Miller also said that Reuben James will have the opportunity to lend a hand to the local communities during port visits.

"We will make quite a few stops while on the deployment where we'll take the time to help out underprivileged communities in foreign countries with community relations projects," said Miller.

Friends and family waved farewell as they watched their Sailors aboard Reuben James depart Pearl Harbor en route to the Pacific Ocean.

"It's really sad to have him leave today, but I know that this is his job," said the wife of a deploying Sailor.

"I never like to see my husband leave, but it is something that I'm used to, and I just look forward to him coming home," added another wife of a Reuben James Sailor.

U.S. Navy guided-missile frigates fulfill a protection-of-shipping mission as anti-submarine warfare combatants for amphibious expeditionary forces, underway replenishment groups and merchant convoys.

Normandy, HSL 46 Det 3 Provide Relief to Haitian Earthquake Victims
Release Date: 1/19/2010 10:57:00 PM

From USS Normandy Public Affairs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HSL) (Light) 46 Detachment 3, embarked aboard USS Normandy (CG 60), completed the first of many humanitarian relief missions inside Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 18.

HSL 46, based in Mayport, Fla., had been tapped to help deliver food and water, as well as movement of personnel, to include troops and Haitian nationals needing medical assistance.

On their first day of humanitarian efforts, the HSL 46 Det 3 made 19 support flights in and out of Port-au-Prince airport and throughout Haiti's capital. The SH-60B helicopter and crew transported 200 cases of water—approximately 600 gallons—and 349 cases of meals ready to eat —approximately 4,188 individual units—to affected areas in Haiti. The crew also transported a total of 58 people, to include two Haitian nationals to other shore-side medical facilities, and U.S. Army soldiers who will provide security at aid distribution drop points.

"Efforts on day one were concentrated primarily on stabilization of select areas," said Lt. David A. Hoopengardner, HSL 46 Det 3 pilot.

There are two helicopters from HSL 46 Det 3 embarked aboard Normandy. Both will make flights simultaneously during their participation in Operation Unified Response.

"It's a great feeling to contribute like this, to know what you are doing is directly going to assist the Haitian people," said Hoopengardner.

USS Fort McHenry Arrives in Haiti
Release Date: 1/19/2010 10:55:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Rachael L. Leslie, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

USS FORT MCHENRY, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) arrived in Haiti Jan. 18 to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in support of Operation Unified Response in the aftermath of Haiti's devastating earthquake.

The ship launched the first assault craft boats ashore to transport the first group of personnel to the island for a site visit Jan. 19.

"Late last night the crew aboard Fort McHenry, this great ship, anchored just off the coast of Haiti, about two miles off of our landing area," said Cmdr. Nate Moyer, Fort McHenry's commanding officer. "We're currently sending some folks ashore to establish an initial liaison with the Haitian population, and then we'll start moving all of our troops a little bit later on today."

Security personnel from Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadrons (MSRON) 6 were some of the first to go ashore with the mission of securing a location for the rest of the troops to land.

"I'm excited to be here and get to be a part of this," said Chief Master-at-Arms (EXW/SW) Derrick Lloyd, of MSRON 6. "I didn't get to participate in the relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina, and I'm happy I get to help this time. I know a lot of the guys are."

The mission of those who went ashore is to establish a site where the rest of the troops aboard Fort McHenry can set up camp in order to start providing support and aid to the people of Haiti as quickly as possible.

"We have a fully-integrated team aboard Fort McHenry," said Moyer. "It's a great support network with the crew aboard the ship, and we have some wonderful organizations stationed aboard that are immediately going to be providing relief to the general population on Haiti."

Sea-based amphibious ready forces, like the ones aboard Fort McHenry, bring added capabilities to aid the relief efforts in Haiti without taxing the already strained infrastructure ashore. The Fort McHenry team includes the ship's crew, members of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, Assault Craft Unit 2, Beach Masters Unit 2, and MSRON 6 and 4. The group's equipment is comprised of heavy-lift and utility helicopters, trucks and humvees, assault amphibious vehicles and logistics capabilities, to include water purification and limited medical support to further enhance the humanitarian relief efforts ashore.

Enterprise Sailors Support Haitian Relief Effort
Release Date: 1/19/2010 11:03:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Croft, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, Newport News, Va. (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (CVN 65) sent 11 Sailors Jan. 19 to conduct humanitarian-assistance and disaster-relief efforts for the victims of the earthquake near Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

The 11 Sailors are French-Creole speakers who will function as interpreters aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH-20) which is off the coast of the impoverished nation caring for the most seriously injured.

This is the first wave of support from the ship, and 36 additional Sailors have been identified to deploy Jan. 21. This brings the total number of Sailors deploying from the ship to 47.

Among the Sailors in the second wave are three air traffic controllers, six aviation boatswain's mates, seven ship's servicemen, two information systems technicians and 18 Sailors from various specialties who will serve in general duties.

"Despite receiving less than 48-hours notice, we were overwhelmed by the number of Sailors who volunteered to go," said Capt. Ryan B. Scholl, the ship's executive officer. "This speaks volumes about the ethos that permeates the crew. They want to be on the front lines of this great humanitarian effort."

Aviation Electronics Technician Seaman Brandon M. Walker, from Enterprise's Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD), volunteered to go and is thrilled to lend a helping hand in the humanitarian efforts.

"I got a call last night (Jan. 17) about Enterprise sending Sailors to help out, and I came directly to the ship to talk to my chief about going," said Walker. "It never crossed my mind that what I will be doing will be dangerous; all I can think about is helping out however I'm needed."

Walker, a Woodbridge, Va. native, said going on missions like this one is the reason he joined the Navy two years ago.

"I joined because of the pride of belonging. I wanted to be able to say I am a Sailor in the United States Navy," said Walker. "Going on a humanitarian mission like this one just strengthens that pride I have for what we do as Sailors."

For some Sailors, the mission to Haiti will not be their first time to the country.

"I have been to Haiti, and the people there struggle more than most of us are used to," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 3rd Class Trey O. Miller from Enterprise's AIMD. "I volunteered to go on this mission because I wanted to show the people of Haiti that there is hope and there are people that care."

More than 7,000 U.S. military personnel are currently supporting Operation Unified Response on the ground in Haiti and from U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels operating in Haitian waters. U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) is leading the military relief mission after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake devastated the country Jan. 12.

SOUTHCOM has established Joint Task Force Haiti to oversee U.S. military relief efforts in Haiti, with Army Lt. Gen. P.K. "Ken" Keen in command.

U.S. Southern Command's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nations navies within the maritime environment. Routine operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

SOUTHCOM is well-versed in providing humanitarian assistance to the region. Since 2005, the command has led U.S. military support to 14 major relief missions, including assistance to Haiti in Sept. 2008. During that mission, U.S. military forces airlifted 3.3 million pounds of aid to communities that were devastated by a succession of major storms.

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

Sanjay Gupta Assists Vinson Medical Team
Release Date: 1/18/2010 3:55:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason Thompson, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At sea (NNS) -- Noted neurosurgeon and CNN medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Los Angeles Pediatric Hospital's Surgeon-in-Chief Dr. Henri Ford assisted USS Carl Vinson's (CVN 70) medical team in emergency surgery to remove concrete debris from a 12-year old Haitian girl's skull Jan. 18.

Ship's Surgeon, Lt. Cmdr (Dr.) Kathryn Berndt diagnosed the girl as having a 1.2 cm piece of concrete embedded in her skull which was removed the night she arrived. During the post-operation debrief, Berndt requested a neurosurgical consult. One well-known neurosurgeon in the region came to mind.

"Our senior medical officer, Doctor (Alfred) Shwayhat, told me about the situation and asked if I could track down Dr. Gupta," said Carl Vinson's Deputy Public Affairs Officer, Lt. j.g. Erik Schneider. "With the help of a CNN producer, we called CNN in Atlanta who then patched us through to Doctor Gupta in Port-au-Prince."

"Someone got a hold of our international desk which is our world headquarters which we're in touch with every hour," said Gupta. "They said there was an urgent call from the Carl Vinson. So I put a call in to them and there was something about a head injury. I initially spoke to Doctor Berndt and she explained the situation."

"It was literally, 'Paging Dr. Gupta off the coast of Haiti from the USS Carl Vinson,'" said Shwayhat.
Following further consultation, a second surgery was deemed necessary. After the medical team irrigated the injury and provided the initial care, Berndt's team, assisted by Gupta and Ford, scrubbed in.

"There was a one-and-a-half centimeter by two centimeter piece of debris that was broken into smaller pieces," Ford said. "There was one piece to which we weren't able to access initially. She was neurologically intact and there wasn't any penetration of the brain."

Gupta and Ford anticipate the girl making a full recovery, "though she will need some antibiotics," Ford said.

"This has been the most remarkable occasion," said Ford, who is originally from Haiti. "It has been the most moving experience being a part of those so motivated in the face of this tragedy. As a pediatric surgeon, it is a great honor to experience the dedication of the American government and the quality of care the ship's medical team provided. The display of humanity and support is truly without parallel."

"I was honored to help out," said Gupta. "I have a profound respect for the capabilities of the U.S. Navy and the medical team on board the Carl Vinson."

Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing 17 are conducting humanitarian and disaster relief operations as part of Operation Unified Relief after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake cause severe damage near Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12, 2010.

USNS Grasp, Divers Arrive in Port-au-Prince, Begin Port Assessments
Release Date: 1/18/2010 12:56:00 PM

From U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51) arrived in Haiti Jan. 18 and began coordinated joint diving operations in the port of Port-au-Prince in support of Operation Unified Response.

Grasp, a Military Sealift Command (MSC) rescue and salvage vessel, began dive operations with embarked U.S. Army's 544th Engineer Dive Team to assess the damage to the port facilities in order to reopen them for operations, allowing relief supplies and personnel additional access to provide aid.

"The 544th is ready to execute underwater surveying operations to identify obstacles that are blocking the channels in Haiti as well as confirm possible areas for unloading of cargo." said Capt. Scott Sann, Commander, 544th Engineer Dive Team. "This would be followed by salvage operations to clear debris from the identified pathways."

Grasp and the 544th will work in conjunction with Explosive Ordnance Disposal group 2, the Mobile and Diving Salvage Unit 2, and Underwater Construction Team 2 under command of Rear Adm. Samuel Perez, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 42. CTF 42 is overall in charge of all port assessment activities and coordination during Operation Unified Response.

Grasp and the 544th had been conducting Navy Diver Southern Partnership Station 2010 (ND SPS 10) off the coast of Belize prior to the earthquake in Haiti. Once diverted, the ship made a brief stop in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to refuel and collect food and supplies for humanitarian aid and disaster relief prior to their arrival in Port-au-Prince.

Hospital Ship Comfort to Support Operation Unified Response Haiti
Release Date: 1/18/2010 4:53:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shannon Warner, USNS Comfort Public Affairs

BALTIMORE (NNS) -- Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) departed Jan. 16 beginning a five to seven day transit to Haiti, where more than 800 military and civilian aid workers aboard the ship will provide relief in response to the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean nation Jan. 12.

President Barrack Obama activated the ship, which houses one of the largest trauma facilities in the U.S., due to its capability to provide a full spectrum of surgical and medical services.

"The Navy is capable with this vessel, with the large decks, with the men and women we have and with the aircraft to do a couple of things," said U.S. Navy Surgeon General Vice Adm. Adam G. Robinson. " Number one, we have the logistical support that is necessary to come and help (overcome) the true catastrophe that is the earthquake in Haiti; number two, is we have the men and women who are trained and have the skill sets who are ready to go into harm's way to help someone else, which is what humanitarian assistance and disaster relief is all about."

American Red Cross reports indicate that 45,000-50,000 people died in the initial wave of devastation brought by the earthquake, but many more are injured or at risk of illness, making Comfort a beacon of hope for millions.

"We plan to care for people medically, mentally and spiritually. We plan to bring the whole person concept to help heal the nation of Haiti," said Lt. Janette Arencibia, planning operations medical intelligence officer aboard Comfort. "The person who needs us the most may be physically okay but mentally devastated."

The ship was in reduced operating status with a skeleton crew of 18 civil service mariners and a hospital support staff of 58 military personnel who care for the ship's medical facilities when the call came to deploy to Haiti. While the ship is designed to be activated, fully staffed and ready to sail in five days, crewmembers and embarked personnel from Bethesda, Portsmouth and San Diego medical centers, as well as numerous other commands, completed all deployment preparations in less than 96 hours.

Comfort departed her homeport of Baltimore with approximately 850 Sailors and civilians aboard who have the capability to support 250 patient beds.

"There are hundreds of people helping from San Diego, from Portsmouth and, especially, from Bethesda where we pulled the bulk of the medical staff to get people here," said Capt. Jim Ware, commanding officer of the medical treatment facility on board Comfort. "We are very, very prepared to do this mission."

Maritime Civil Affairs Team Aboard Bataan Prepares to Assist in Haiti
Release Date: 1/18/2010 8:54:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Samantha Robinett, USS Bataan (LHD 5) Public Affairs

USS BATAAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Nine members of the Maritime Civil Affairs Team (MCAT) arrived on board the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) Jan. 14 and have been preparing to go into Haiti to make a difference.

"The Maritime Civil Affairs Team's overall mission is to coordinate between all participating units within the area of operation that are currently operating on the beach," said Electronics Technician 1st Class Joel Eyzaguirre, a member of the MCAT.

The MCAT embarked on board Bataan will be using information from the assessment teams to coordinate the most tactical placements for the teams already in Haiti along with those who will be arriving with Bataan's Amphibious Relief Mission as part of Operation Unified Response.

"We are a reach-back," said Chief Operations Specialist (SW/AW) Daniel Bada, also a member of the MCAT. "They are going to assess the situation then pass the information to us and we distribute that information amongst the element."

The element includes teams from the Navy along with the Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force and many foreign agencies. Many of these teams already have people in Haiti assessing the damage and preparing for assistance while still making a difference for the Haitians.

"We'll have a team on the ground, if not tonight, then early tomorrow, and they will send back information," said Eyzaguirre. "They are there to figure out where we would be most effective. We are a very small team, so we really have to think of where we can be placed to have the biggest impact."

Operation Unified Response already has a number of military organizations able to deliver food and water and provide medical and engineering buildings for the people of Haiti.

"There are a lot of moving parts in this effort," said Eyzaguirre. "Our job as a team on the ground is to talk to all these agencies and to go out and find the places where these resources need to go."

Eyzaguiree and Bada both say they are ready to arrive in Haiti and lend a hand to the Haitians and the relief efforts already in place.

"It's where we need to go," said Eyzaguirre. "It's what we got into this for, to do just this kind of thing. To be called upon and act in the circumstances."

Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USS Gunston Hall (LHD 44) deployed to provide military support capabilities to civil authorities and to help stabilize and improve the situation in the wake of this disaster.

Safety Measures Protect Ship From Piracy
Release Date: 1/18/2010 3:58:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rachel McMarr, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet

Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Jamaica-flagged Motor Vessel (M/V) Miltiades came under attack and successfully deterred suspected pirates Jan. 17, while transiting approximately 130 nautical miles southwest of Al Mukalla, Yemen.

The pirate skiff fired on the M/V with AK-47 rifles. The Miltiades embarked security team fired red flares and the ship took recommended evasive maneuvers to cause the skiff to break off the attack. No injuries or damages were reported aboard Miltiades.

Early detection of suspected attacks is the first line of defense against piracy, but other practices include using flares, out running attackers or using heavy wheel movements, use of non-lethal devices, such as netting, water hoses, electric fencing, wire and long-range acoustic devices. These practices have proven effective at deterring piracy.

"We continue to highlight the importance of preparation by the merchant mariners and the maritime industry," said Commodore Tim Lowe, deputy commander of the Combined Maritime Forces. "The efforts of the coalition naval forces deployed to the region are deterring and disrupting pirate attacks. However, when vessels have practiced self protection measures, the
risk of being pirated has been greatly reduced."

Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), operating out of Bahrain, continues to urge mariners to employ defensive measures when transiting the Horn of Africa, Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.

CMF patrols more than 2.5 million square miles of international waters to conduct both integrated and coordinated operations with a common purpose: to increase the security and prosperity of the region by working together for a better future. CMF is working to defeat terrorism, prevent piracy, reduce illegal trafficking of people and drugs, and promote the maritime environment as a safe place for mariners with legitimate business.

UPDATE: U.S. Navy Delivers Assistance, Capabilities to Unified Response
Release Date: 1/17/2010 2:53:00 PM

From Defense Media Activity Anacostia

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- As the maritime component of Unified Response, the U.S. Navy is part of a larger U.S. Government effort led by the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in response to the request for assistance from the Government of Haiti after the devastating earthquake of Jan. 12.

With agility and flexibility, the U.S. Navy is key enabler of the role of the U.S. military to rapidly respond with critically needed capabilities to deliver humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the areas that the Government of Haiti deems most necessary.

USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Normandy (CG 60), USS Underwood (FFG 36), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51), are on station in the vicinity of Haiti in support of host nation, U.S. State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) efforts to conduct Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief operations in order to prevent human suffering and additional loss of life.

USS Bataan (LHD 5), USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) are en route Haiti with embarked Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU 22) and are expected to arrive Jan. 18. In addition, USS Gunston Hall (LSD 41) has been diverted to Haiti and also is scheduled to arrive Jan. 18. These amphibious platforms will form a "sea base" from which humanitarian supplies can be moved ashore via helicopters and landing craft. Bataan also has robust medical facility that includes nearly 50 medical professionals as well as X-ray facilities, a 600-bed hospital, operating rooms, an intensive care unit, pharmacy and laboratory.

Approximately 1,480 U.S. military personnel are supporting Operation Unified Response on the ground in Haiti. Approximately 4,400 additional U.S. military personnel are supporting from U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels operating in Haitian waters.

The following numbers provide a glimpse of the impact these service members are making:

- More than 2,000 American citizens have been evacuated to Orlando, Fla., Homestead Air Force Base (AFB), Fla., or McGuire AFB, Pa.

- Maritime forces have distributed 20,160 rations of food since Tuesday.

-USS Carl Vinson delivered more than 30 pallets of relief supplies for distribution to affect areas Saturday. Nineteen helicopters embarked on the carrier are also flying airlift missions in support of relief efforts.

- More than 100,000 bottles of water were delivered Sunday. With water being one of the most precious commodities, the focus continues to be on taking advantage of every opportunity to bring water ashore.

- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) received seven injured Haitian civilians at approximately 7:30 p.m. EST Saturday when a U.S. Coast Guard MH-60J Jayhawk helicopter on a MEDEVAC mission was forced to divert due to weather. The helicopter was taking the earthquake victims from Port-Au-Prince to a hospital near Cap-Haïtien Cape Haitien on the island's northern coast. USS Carl Vinson medical personnel are currently treating the seven Haitians, including a one-two-hourday old infant.

- USS Higgins (DDG 76), homeported in San Diego, is providing afloat logistical services for the Coast Guard helicopters.

- USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2), a dry cargo ship and USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011), a dry cargo ship capable of offloading cargo without a port are scheduled to arrive in the next week.

- USNS Comfort (T-AH-20), homeported in Baltimore, Md., got underway Jan. 16 and is making best course and speed to the area and is expected to arrive in the area in the next three days. USNS Comfort's primary mission is to provide an afloat, mobile, acute surgical medical facility to the U.S. military that is flexible, capable and uniquely adaptable to support expeditionary warfare. Comfort's secondary mission is to provide full hospital services to support U.S. disaster relief and humanitarian operations worldwide. The ship comes with approximately 600 medical personnel and an expanded 1,000-bed hospital facility.

- On Jan. 14, Comfort the ship was in a scheduled maintenance availability. In the course of 72 hours, the Military Sealift command transformed an industrial shipboard site into an up and ready mobile naval hospital, fully staffed and equipped with the most up-to-date medical technology, ready to provide medical care to our neighbors in desperate need in Haiti.

- USNS Comfort, a 894-foot long ship, has a full spectrum of hospital services to support disaster relief efforts. Comfort has one of the largest trauma facilities in the United States and has four X-rays, one CAT scan unit, an MRI unit, a dental suite, a pharmacy and an optometry and lens laboratory. The ship also maintains up to 5,000 units of blood and can serve as many as 1,000 patients.

- Navy P-3 Orion aircraft are conducting aerial surveys of the area affected by the earthquake.

- Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command's Combat Camera, Maritime Civil Affairs, Maritime Security, Expeditionary Logistic Support and Seabee units, as well as other Navy divers and engineers are supporting disaster response efforts and bring a diverse capability including assessment, construction, security, civil affairs and logistical support.

- Various units are prepared to provide assistance with sea-based helicopters, to include H-53 Sea Stallions and H-60 Seahawks.

Another big part of the maritime relief effort is to start the rebuilding of port facilities near the Haitian capital. USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51), a rescue and salvage ship with embarked FBI dive team arrived Jan. 17 to conduct surveys and assessments necessary to repair the port. This effort will be reinforced by USNS Henson (T-AGS-63), an oceanographic survey ship, and USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), which are scheduled to arrive Jan. 20. Additionally, USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2), a dry cargo ship, and USNS Sumner (T-AGS-61), an oceanographic survey ship, are scheduled to arrive Jan 22. USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011), a dry cargo ship, is scheduled to arrive Jan. 21.

USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198), a replenishment oiler, is supporting the effort by refueling the ships.

Navy units supporting this effort are under the operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO). As the Navy component command of U.S. Southern Command, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Routine operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

The last time the Navy supported U.S. disaster relief efforts in Haiti was in September 2008. For 19 days the amphibious ship USS Kearsarge using embarked helicopters and amphibious landing craft to delivered 3.3 million pounds of internationally-donated aid to communities isolated by flooding, and mudslides and damaged roads.

USS Normandy Arrives off Coast of Port-Au-Prince
Release Date: 1/17/2010 1:33:00 PM

From U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

USS NORMANDY, At Sea (NNS) -- The cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) arrived off the coast of Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 17 to support Operation Unified Response, the joint U.S. military relief effort for earthquake victims.

Normandy, homeported in Norfolk, Va., will support relief efforts by providing air surveillance for the heavy air traffic in the area. The ship will also act as a ready deck, or an at sea platform able to accept helicopters on deck and provide refueling services.

Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (Light) (HSL) 46, from Mayport, Fla., has two SH-60B helicopters on board Normandy and will also contribute to the relief efforts with additional airlift support.

As the Navy component command of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), Naval Forces Southern Command's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nations navies within the maritime environment. Routine operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

SOUTHCOM is well-versed in providing humanitarian assistance to the region. Since 2005, the command has led U.S. military support to 14 major relief missions, including assistance to Haiti in September 2008. During that mission, U.S. military forces airlifted 3.3 million pounds of aid to communities that were devastated by a succession of major storms.

USS Carl Vinson Receives Haitian MEDEVAC Patients
Release Date: 1/17/2010 9:27:00 AM

From USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

USS CARL VINSON, At sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) received seven injured Haitian civilians at approximately 7:30 p.m. EST Jan. 16 when a U.S. Coast Guard MH-60J Jayhawk helicopter on a medical evacuation mission was forced to divert due to weather.

The helicopter was taking the earthquake victims from Port-Au-Prince to a hospital near Cape Haitien on the island's northern coast. The ship's medical personnel are currently treating the seven Haitians, including a two-hour old infant.

The aircraft carrier, which arrived on scene within 72 hours of tasking, is supporting the unified U.S. military response to the disaster by providing its 19 helicopters to airlift humanitarian supplies to the Haitian people.

Gunston Hall Deploys in Support of Relief Operations in Haiti
Release Date: 1/17/2010 9:30:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Stratton, USS Gunston Hall Public Affairs

USS GUNSTON HALL, At sea (NNS) -- USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) departed Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Jan. 15 as part of the U.S. Navy humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts for the victims of the earthquake near Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

"The fact that we are flexible and are well versed in these types of operations makes us the platform of choice for these missions" said Cmdr. Fred Wilhelm, commanding officer of Gunston Hall. "We bring the capability of making 72,000 gallons of water a day, we have medical facilities on board, and we're bringing landing craft, along with Marines to help with any tasks that might come our way."

Originally planning to deploy to Africa as part of Africa Partnership Station (APS) West, that mission was placed on hold to take part in relief efforts. Gunston Hall was to begin the Navy's third APS deployment, with an international staff headed by Capt. Cindy Thebaud, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 60.

"It's particularly fitting that we have a multi-national team on board because this will undoubtedly be an international effort over the long haul for the response to the disaster in Haiti," Thebaud said.

The ship got underway with approximately 130 Marines aboard as part of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) originally slated for the APS mission, with additional Marines being brought aboard on the way to Haiti.

Teamwork is essential in missions like this, according to the MAGTF Commander, Marine Lt. Col. John Golden.

"Sailors and Marines are always excited to go to sea for the real mission," said Golden. "A great aspect of this mission to Haiti is that one of our APS missions was to train our host nation to conduct humanitarian, disaster, and recovery efforts, and, that will now be done for real."

Gunston Hall Sailors are also eager to pitch in, as are the international APS staff.

"This is my first deployment and I'm really excited that we're going to Haiti to help out," said Engineman 3rd Class Kenneth Blessant. "I'm a small boat engineer and will help transport some of the Marines and supplies to the beach."

"Being from a poor country, I understand how the Haitian people feel," said Lt. Assane Seye, a naval officer from Senegal taking part in APS. "I know that I would be very happy to receive help if I needed it, which is why I am very proud and grateful to be part of this mission."

Gunston Hall, a Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock-landing ship, recently completed a mid-life modernization availability. The work included major upgrades to the ship's control system, local area network and machinery control system, propulsion systems, HVAC, as well as replacement of the ship's boilers and evaporators with an all-electric services system.

Africa Partnership Station West is an international initiative developed by Naval Forces Europe and Naval Forces Africa that aims to improve maritime safety and security in West and Central Africa.

NHB Staff Preparing to Support Relief Efforts in Haiti
Release Date: 1/17/2010 9:32:00 AM

By Douglas H. Stutz, Naval Hospital Bremerton Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Bremerton (NHB) has quickly mobilized staff members to support the humanitarian assistance and disaster response in Haiti.

"Supporting the relief effort for Haiti will showcase what we do better than anyone, and I am proud of everyone who is going on to help out in this time of crisis," said Capt. Mark Brouker, NHB commanding officer. "Being part of this Haiti contingent will be a life changing experience for some, perhaps all, and shows a lot of flexibility for which we are very thankful."

NHB's Executive Department determined those needed for the Haiti relief support mission and the command's Operational Readiness Department immediately commenced preparing the necessary paperwork for all those deploying.

"We make sure everyone's paperwork, from their medical and personal records to current immunizations to legal to their travel orders, are up to date," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Lawrence Duran.

"Being a part of this mission is the right thing to do," said Cmdr. Janine Wood, Navy Nurse Corps. "I'm excited and nervous and still a little in shock. It's almost easier to get ready to pack up and move out in a few days and not have time to dwell on it than going on a individual augmentee deployment, where we now usually find out about 60 days beforehand."

According to Brouker, it's too early to begin to know how long the NHB team will be gone, their deployment status will not impact patient care at NHB. The final destination is still to be determined for the NHB team.

USS Underwood En Route to Haiti
Release Date: 1/16/2010 4:49:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leona Mynes, U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA (NNS) -- The frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36) stopped overnight at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba Jan. 15 while en route to earthquake-devastated Haiti.

The naval station provided logistical support to Underwood while the ship prepared for its humanitarian aid mission in the Caribbean.

"[The naval station] is going to provide us with fuel, food and water before we leave tomorrow to head down to Haiti," said Ens. Kim Hanson, Underwood's public affairs officer.

When Underwood departs Guantanamo Bay, she will sail approximately 200 miles east to provide support for disaster relief and humanitarian aid for earthquake victims.

"We've been preparing for a mission like this throughout our 20-week training cycle," said Cmdr. Frank Bowden, Underwood's commanding officer.

Underwood was in the midst of this training cycle when they received orders to head south, said Bowden.

"We are warfighters first and foremost, being in the military, but we are very compassionate people," Bowden said. "As far as helping our people, everyone on board our ship and in the Navy as a whole wants to make sure that the people of Haiti and whoever needs help around the world gets it."

CNO Speaks at LCS 2 Commissioning in Mobile
Release Date: 1/16/2010 10:39:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kyle P. Malloy, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- Chief of naval operations (CNO) helped welcome the newest Littoral Combat Ship USS Independence (LCS 2) to the fleet at its commissioning ceremony in Mobile, Ala., Jan. 16.

CNO, Adm. Gary Roughead, spoke at the ceremony about the mission capabilities and the role USS Independence will have helping the Navy continue to be a global force for good.

"LCS will have the capability…to secure the littoral regions upon which communities rely on for food, transportation and for their well-being," said Roughead, "and to protect critical chokepoints in the global supply chain, to launch unmanned air, underwater and surface vehicles that will keep our trade at sea and our men and women ashore safe from harm."

Roughead went on to point out the impact this new class of ship will have on future naval operations.

"What this ship class will do, because of its modular capabilities, its speed, its shallow draft …will take the banner of American independence to the seas and shores of every continent and ensure the freedom and security of the seas upon which all nations rely," said Roughead.

CNO recognized the Sailors of the blue and gold crews aboard Independence who brought her to life, saying the commissioning could never have happened had it not been for their hard work and commitment.

"There are no two crews who are more important to this ship in its lifetime than yours. The standards that you set, the tone you will create will be with this ship forever." said Roughead.

Independence is the first LCS Independence Class vessel and is the second LCS ship to be commissioned, following USS Freedom (LCS 1). The new naval ship's design is to produce a highly technological and capable vessel, while promoting increased accuracy of maritime strategy operating close to shore.

USS Independence Commissioned
Release Date: 1/16/2010 5:24:00 PM

By Surface Forces Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- Nearly 500 guests braved the rain today in Mobile, Ala., to attend the commissioning of USS Independence (LCS 2).

Independence joins USS Freedom (LCS 1) in the revolutionary Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) class, already making its mark on the fleet.

"LCS will have the capability...to secure the littoral regions upon which communities rely on for food, transportation and for their well-being," said Adm. Gary Roughead, Chief of Naval Operations, "and to protect critical chokepoints in the global supply chain, to launch unmanned air, underwater and surface vehicles that will keep our trade at sea and our men and women ashore safe from harm."

LCS is a fast, agile, mission-focused ship that demonstrates the latest in naval warfighting technology. The ship is specifically designed to defeat "anti-access" threats in shallow, coastal water regions, including fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines, and mines. To meet the combatant commander's increased demand for mission-tailored forces packages, LCS features an interchangeable modular design that allows the ship to be reconfigured to meet mission requirements.

"LCS is the future of our surface Navy," said Vice Adm. D.C. Curtis, Commander, Naval Surface Forces. "This program will complement the strengths of larger warships. LCS will be a deterrent of green and brown water threats; the flexibility, versatility, and smart design of Independence make it well suited for joint operations."

Independence is a 419-foot aluminum trimaran, the first of its design in the surface fleet. It has a displacement of 2,800 metric tons, is capable of speeds in excess of 45 knots, and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep. Propelled by four water jets in addition to two diesel and two gas turbine engines, the ship boasts a range of over 3,500 nautical miles.

Independence was christened by Mrs. Doreen Scott, wife of the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Terry Scott, in a ceremony in Mobile, Ala. on Oct. 4, 2008. The ship completed builder's sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico, and was delivered to the Navy on Dec. 18, 2009.

"The crews are immensely excited to reach commissioning," said Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, commanding officer, Blue Crew. "They have been waiting and preparing a long time to do what they are doing today."

"We are also excited to have the people who built the ship be a part of the ceremony against the great backdrop of a supportive city," said Cmdr. Michael Riley, commanding officer, Gold Crew. "We are extremely pleased to celebrate this occasion in Mobile."

The Sailors who brought the ship to life today are part of an innovative manning reconstruct that reduces crew size, demanding each Sailor maintain high levels of proficiency in multiple fields, and optimizes ship operability with multiple crews. Independence is manned by two rotational crews, "blue" and "gold," of 40 Sailors each. These crews are further augmented by detachment specialists for each of the mission modules.

"It was a pretty special honor to be named as the first boatswain's mate of the watch," said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Katrina Williams. "I will be the first watch on the USS Independence, and I was chosen by my superiors, that means a lot to me. "

"This is a chance for my parents and my fiancée's parents to come and see what I'm doing, where I live, the jobs I will be doing and most important, where I will be working," said Engineman 1st Class (SW) Benjamin Standon, who welcomed 15 members of his family to the audience.

The rotational crew model is already proving effective aboard USS Freedom (LCS 1), Independence's predecessor in the LCS class. Freedom is currently readying for her maiden deployment, accelerated approximately two years. The Navy expects to learn key operational lessons about Freedom in a deployment setting, and to integrate those lessons into the larger LCS fleet, projected to eventually reach 55 ships.

Independence will conduct further testing and evaluation before eventually heading toward its homeport in San Diego.

Carl Vinson Begins Humanitarian Operations in Southern Command
Release Date: 1/16/2010 8:21:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason Thompson, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 began humanitarian and disaster relief operations Jan. 15 after arriving on station Thursday.

Carl Vinson and CVW 17 received orders from U.S. Southern Command to deliver assistance to the Caribbean nation following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake which caused catastrophic damage within the capital city Jan. 12.

"We've been able to complete our first mission which was to deliver aid and supplies to the airport," said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 1, Rear Adm. Ted Branch, the joint force maritime component commander.

The Carl Vinson is part of a comprehensive Department of Defense and U.S. government approach to disaster relief in Haiti. Navy expeditionary forces are deploying to provide on-scene assessment, construction, security civil affairs and logistics support in conjunction with interagency and multinational partners.

"The task ahead is a daunting one, but we have Sailors who are eager to be part of the solution," said Branch.
"We have great Sailors and agency partners; lots of people trying to do good things."

Since humanitarian assistance and disaster response are part of the U.S. maritime force core capabilities, Carl Vinson is uniquely positioned to provide assistance.

"One of the great benefits of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is that we were able to proceed at 30 knots for two full days to arrive on station," said Carl Vinson Commanding Officer, Capt. Bruce H. Lindsey. "Our flexibility, speed and sustainability enable us to immediately begin the relief efforts."

Commander, U.S. Naval Force Southern Command directs U.S. naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interaction with regional partner nation navies.

Navy Medicine Responds to Haiti Earthquake Disaster
Release Date: 1/16/2010 10:05:00 AM

From Bureau of Navy Medicine Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED), headquarters of Navy Medicine, responded swiftly with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in the devastating aftermath of a 7.0 earthquake felt in Haiti's capital Jan. 12.

The Navy hospital ship, USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), homeported in Baltimore, deployed Jan. 16 to support the relief efforts in Haiti's capital along with USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and USS Bataan (LHD 5). A medical team of 550 Navy doctors, nurses, technicians and support staff will provide a host of medical services to include primary care, trauma care, pediatric care and orthopedic care upon arrival in Haiti. The medical team is comprised of Navy medical personnel stationed at National Navy Medical Center Bethesda and Naval Hospital Portsmouth.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Haitian people and all those affected by this devastating earthquake," said Vice Adm. Adam Robinson, U.S. Navy Surgeon General. "This is the meaning of humanitarian assistance- protecting others even when it places us in harm's way, extending ourselves for the benefit of those in need."

The 894-foot ship has a full spectrum of hospital services to support disaster relief efforts. It has one of the largest trauma facilities in the United States and has four X-rays, one CAT scan unit, an MRI unit, a dental suite, a pharmacy and an optometry and lens laboratory. The ship also maintains up to 5,000 units of blood and can serve as many as 1,000 patients.

"Human suffering moves us to act, and the expeditionary character of our naval and marine forces uniquely positions them to provide assistance as the vanguard of interagency and multinational efforts," said Robinson. "While we still train our forces to fight and win our nation's wars alongside our allies, we have adopted a serious focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster response to help those in need to attack instability and insecurity so that we help our partner nations create conditions where hope can flourish."

This will be the second time the Comfort will visit Haiti –the last time was in April 2009 for 12 days as part of Continuing Promise 2009.

Vinson Helicopters Perform Medical Evacuations; "Sea Base" On the Way
Release Date: 1/16/2010 10:04:00 AM

From U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

ABOARD USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- U.S. Navy helicopters operating from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) rescued two American citizens in Port-au-Prince, Haiti Jan. 15.

An SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter, from the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 responded to a MEDEVAC call from the Air Force 23rd Special Tactics Squadron. An Air Force pararescueman (PR) on the scene had just freed a man from the rubble of the Hotel Montana, but his legs below the knee were lost. The helicopter's aircrew airlifted the man to USS Carl Vinson for emergency medical care. Vinson doctors treated his injuries. The man is in stable condition in the ship's medical ward.

Carl Vinson responded to a second distress call a couple of hours later, sending an MH-60 Knighthawk from the "Chargers" of HSC-26 to evacuate an American woman. The woman, a 55-year old Christian missionary, said a wall collapsed on top of her when the earthquake struck. She is also in stable condition, undergoing further evaluation by Navy doctors aboard the carrier.

"It looks as though our aircrews may have saved lives," said Rear. Adm. Ted Branch, Commander of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and Task Force 41, the U.S. Navy's sea-based humanitarian support mission of Haiti.

While Carl Vinson and the destroyer USS Higgins (DDG-76) were supporting helicopter operations in support of Joint Task Force Haiti, several U.S. Navy and Military Sealift Command ships sortied to sail to Haiti to assist in the relief operation. The dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) departed Morehead City, N.C., Jan. 15 while the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) got underway Jan. 16. The three ships were in North Carolina to onload a Marine force configured for humanitarian support. The ships, which have embarked helicopters, landing craft and robust medical capabilities, will comprise a "sea base" around the island from which further relief operations can be staged.

"I'm pleased with the tremendous response by both the Navy and Marine Corps in the flow of forces to Haiti," said Rear Adm. Victory Guillory, Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet. "The Carl Vinson, with its speed and flexibility, along with the Higgins and other units that were in the area, are the perfect first responders. They're providing critical help when it's needed most. Very soon, we'll have our sea base in place—the right ships with the right capabilities for sustained relief operations from the sea."

Other ships on the way to assist in the operation are the dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 41), the cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), the frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36), the rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp (ARS 51) and the oceanographic survey ship USNS Henson (T-AGS 63). Additionally, several auxiliary ships from the Military Sealift Command (MSC) are en route and will provide fuel and supplies to sustain the Navy force at sea throughout the operation.

U.S. Southern Command is well-versed in providing humanitarian assistance to the region. Since 2005, the command has led U.S. military support to 14 major relief missions, including assistance to Haiti in September 2008. During that mission, U.S. military forces airlifted 3.3 million pounds of aid to communities that were devastated by a succession of major storms.

USNS Comfort Readies to Leave for Haiti
Release Date: 1/16/2010 12:52:00 AM

By Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service

BALTIMORE (NNS) -- Early last spring, Capt. James Ware was preparing his crew aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) for a humanitarian assistance mission in Haiti, the first stop during a four-month swing through the region.

Ware is overseeing final preparations Jan. 15 to return to Haiti for a more pressing mission: providing life-saving medical care to victims of a devastating earthquake that killed tens of thousands and left untold thousands more injured.

Comfort will leave its home port here early Jan. 16 and is expected to arrive in Haiti by Jan. 21, delivering a full spectrum of medical and surgical services aboard one of the country's largest trauma facilities.

"This is a moment when we feel we can have a huge impact," along with other military medical providers already on the ground, as well as those from nongovernmental organizations and the international community, Ware said. "Our hope is to work with those individuals, side by side, to truly help the people of Haiti."

Comfort will deliver immense capability to the mission. The hulking hospital ship - three football fields long and one wide – has 250 hospital beds and a 550-person medical team that includes trauma surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, eye surgeons and obstetricians and gynecologists.

The team also will include medical professionals from the Navy, Army, Air Force and U.S. Public Health Service, as well as nongovernmental organizations.

Ware said he expects his staff to initially see about 500 patients a day when it arrives in Haiti, working up to 750 or more, and to conduct 20 to 25 surgical procedures a day.

But his big focus Jan. 15 was on getting the ship manned, equipped and provisioned for the mission ahead. A massive logistical effort was under way to load the food, water and medical supplies the crew - most from the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., but also from its sister hospitals in Portsmouth, Va., and San Diego, Calif., - will need.

Two cranes worked simultaneously, hoisting palletized loads of bottled water, packaged meals and other supplies to Comfort's upper decks. Meanwhile, a long line of tractor trailers that began arriving last night idled nearby, waiting to offload their supplies. Engine roars mingled with the ever-present "beep-beep-beep" of forklifts scurrying in almost every direction alongside the vessel.

Comfort initially will carry enough food and water to sustain its crew – 550 medical specialists and 250 mariners and staff to provide security, communications and other shipboard support – and the patients who will fill its 250 hospital beds for up to 60 days, Ware said.

In addition, the ship has enough medical supplies aboard to support a 60-day combat casualty care mission, he said.

Ware said he's confident he'll have everything he needs on board to proceed directly to Haiti without having to stop anywhere else en route to pick up additional crew or supplies.

"We have pushed forward on this end to make sure we have the right personnel," he said. "We have looked all the way down to the very lowest seaman on board to determine whether they have the exact skills sets we need – from an operating technician to a surgeon to a blood-bank specialist.

"And we have identified 99 percent of those individuals," he continued. "So [the] plan is to leave tomorrow, and we will be moving as quickly as possible to get to Port-au-Prince Harbor."

As much as 70 percent of the crew already has experience aboard Comfort, or its sister ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) in San Diego, Ware said. In addition to on board training sessions conducted every 12 weeks, many participated in Continuing Promise 2009, Comfort's most recent humanitarian assistance mission through Latin America and the Caribbean.

During that mission, Comfort treated almost 100,000 patients, including tens of thousands in Haiti alone.

The visit provided important lessons to the Comfort crew it will apply during its disaster response mission, he said, but also fostered relationships that will help in its upcoming mission.

"They are waiting for us to come," Ware said, citing numerous phone calls and e-mails he has received from people he's already worked with in Haiti. "And I think those [relationships] will really pay off – not for us, but for the people of Haiti."

Lt. Cmdr. Thomas Olivero, department head for Comfort's operating room, is preparing for a mission he expects to be heavy in head injuries, crushing injuries, amputations and other trauma cases. His crew will exercise various trauma scenarios once it's all onboard and under way, to be sure it's ready to hit the ground running when it arrives.

Olivero remembers the gratification of Continuing Promise 2009, when "a busy day for us was a good day, because we were helping many people."

He expects to be even busier during this mission, too, but acknowledged the circumstances will be a lot tougher to deal with.

"It is going to be good to help people, but the reason you are busy is not what you want it to be," he said.

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Lesley Prasad, one of just 50 permanently assigned crew members aboard Comfort, said it feels great seeing the hospital ship provide such a desperately needed service to relieve suffering in Haiti. It's kept him and his fellow crew members buzzing nonstop for the past four days "on full steam" to prepare so they're ready to hit the ground running.

"I feel really good about this," he said, pausing as he ordered last-minute medical supplies for the mission. "We are the best qualified crew medically, [and we're] ready to help these people in Haiti," he said. "To be able to have such a vital role in the effort, it's awesome."

Top Navy Doc Predicts Long USNS Comfort Deployment
Release Date: 1/16/2010 9:26:00 AM

By Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service

BALTIMORE (NNS) -- The chief of Navy medicine told the crew of the USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) here Jan. 15 to prepare for a long deployment to Haiti.

Vice Adm. (Dr.) Adam M. Robinson Jr. visited the crew of the Comfort as they prepared to leave Baltimore harbor this morning to sail to Haiti.

He said the need is great in Haiti following the magnitude 7 earthquake that leveled the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12.

"This is not a training mission," Robinson said. "I suspect that we will have medical and naval assets in Haiti [for] six months minimum, and I think longer than that."

The medical staff aboard the Comfort mostly is from the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., and Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Virginia. Other specialists from many other Navy hospitals and clinics in the United States are aboard the hospital ship.

Red Cross officials estimate that 40,000 to 50,000 people were killed in the earthquake. Countless thousands more are injured, and the Comfort is one platform that can deliver world-class medical care for those people, Robinson said.

"You are going to get first-hand experience in a very intense and a very critical situation in Haiti," the admiral said.

Robinson, who led a medical hospital detachment in Haiti in 1999, said the deployment to Haiti will be "a life-defining assignment" for the Comfort crew. On the best days, he said, Haiti is a poor country. It is, in fact, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, and it suffers from poverty, deforestation and political uncertainty. Of the 5 million to 6 million people who live in Haiti, roughly 2 million live in and around Port-au-Prince. Before the earthquake struck, Haiti had recently been hit by hurricanes and floods.

The quake destroyed whatever infrastructure existed, Robinson said, and the country's need is greater today by an order of magnitude.

Still, Robinson said, the medics need to pace themselves, and he asked the crew and medical staff to watch out for one another. "Make sure you have each others' backs," he said. Make sure you are there for one another when you need each other." This, he said, will be very important when they have been deployed for months.

The scenes in Haiti will be terrible, Robinson warned the crew.

"You will see devastation and injuries and death and destruction that you've never seen before," he said. "If you feel overwhelmed and feel the need to talk, … please – my medical children – don't hesitate to do that. There is no shame in raising your hand and taking a timeout. There is no shame in asking for help."

The admiral said he is incredibly proud of the professionals who came together on short notice to make the deployment happen. Medicine, he added, is a common language that all people understand, and it is a way to bridge differences.

"Be safe, be smart and take care of one another," Robinson said. "If you do that, this is going to be a very successful mission."

USS Carl Vinson Arrives in Haiti
By Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Thompson
Special to American Forces Press Service

ABOARD USS CARL VINSON IN THE CARIBBEAN SEA, Jan. 15, 2010 – The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson arrived off the coast of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, today to begin humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

“Our initial focus is to concentrate on saving lives while providing first-responder support to the people of Haiti,” said Navy Rear Adm. Ted N. Branch, commander of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and of the sea-based portion of the Navy’s humanitarian-support mission in the earthquake-stricken nation. “Our assistance here reflects our nation’s compassion and commitment to those impacted by this tragedy.”

The carrier arrived with a robust airlift capability, picking up extra helicopters while in transit that will prove essential during the mission.

“When tasked to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in Haiti, we immediately headed to Mayport, Fla., at more than 30 knots and loaded 19 helicopters, personnel and support equipment from five different East Coast Navy squadrons in less than eight hours,” said Navy Capt. Bruce H. Lindsey, Carl Vinson commanding officer. “There is no other platform that can do all of that so quickly.”

Military Preps for Broader Haiti Relief Mission
Release Date: 1/14/2010 1:55:00 PM

By Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson is headed toward earthquake-devastated Haiti and is scheduled to arrive Jan. 15 to provide airlift support for the disaster-response mission, the commander of U.S. Southern Command reported Jan. 13.

Meanwhile, Air Force Gen. Douglas Fraser said, Southcom is "seriously looking" at deploying a large-deck amphibious ship with a 2,000-member Marine expeditionary unit to provide disaster response and, if required, to help maintain security.

Several other Defense Department ships and Coast Guard vessels – from small ships to destroyers to cutters -- also are headed toward Haiti, some with limited humanitarian assistance supplies and helicopters aboard.

In addition, an 82nd Airborne Division brigade and "various forces around the armed forces" have been put on alert, ready to deploy if needed to support the effort, the general said.

The actions are part of a "very robust effort" under way to ensure the military is ready to respond to requirements identified through ongoing assessments, Fraser explained during news briefings today at the Pentagon and the State Department.

"We don't know precisely what the situation is on the ground," he said, "so we are leaning forward to provide as much capability as quickly as we can to respond to whatever the need is when we get there."

Meanwhile, the military is taking accountability of its own 64 troops assigned to Haiti. Most are part of the military liaison group there or support the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti, Fraser said.

Fraser is leading military support to the disaster response mission, being coordinated through the U.S. Agency for International Development and State Department's Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance.

His deputy military commander, Air Force Lt. Gen. P.K. "Ken" Keen, was on the ground in Haiti when the earthquake struck, and is providing the initial on-the-ground military command.

The initial thrust in the operation, Fraser said, is on assessing the situation on the ground to determine what's needed and where, and to provide communications and command-and-control equipment needed to support relief efforts.

Toward that end, Southcom is deploying a 30-person team to Haiti this afternoon to support U.S. relief efforts.

Two Puerto Rico Air National Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft will deliver the team, made up of U.S. military engineers, operational planners, a command-and-control group and communication specialists. Once on the ground, they will work with U.S. Embassy personnel as well as Haitian, U.N. and international officials to assess the situation and facilitate follow-on U.S. military support.

"From practice, we've found that the assessments are critical to making sure we get the right equipment in there and make the recovery efforts and the life-supporting efforts as efficient as possible," Fraser explained.

Meanwhile, the C-130s are transporting civilian search-and-rescue teams to Haiti, he said.

Southcom officials reported other immediate response activities:

-- A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter evacuated four critically injured U.S. Embassy staff to Naval Station Guantanamo, Cuba, hospital for further treatment earlier today;

-- Elements of the Air Force's 1st Special Operations Wing will arrive in Haiti this afternoon to provide air traffic control capability and airfield operations at the Port-au-Prince airport; and

-- A Navy P-3 Orion aircraft took off from Comalapa, El Salvador, early this morning to conduct an aerial reconnaissance of the area affected by the earthquake.

An important initial thrust is on getting communications and command-and-control assets into Haiti to support relief operations, Fraser told reporters. He noted that the U.N. Mission's headquarters was severely damaged during the earthquake, with much of its communications equipment lost.

As communications and other support goes to Port-au-Prince airport to restore it to full functioning, assessment teams will also evaluate the port facilities to determine if they are operational to receive incoming aid.

The USS Carl Vinson was on a training mission when it was ordered to Haiti to support the effort. It will transit through Mayport, Fla., to take on additional humanitarian support supplies and helicopters before arriving in Haiti later tomorrow, Fraser said.

The arrival of a yet-undetermined amphibious ship, probably a couple of days after the Vinson, will provide a broader range of capability to move supplies around and provide lift capability to support the effort, he said.

While not ruling out a deployment of the hospital ship USS Comfort, Fraser said the amphibious ship could provide much of the same medical capability.

In the meantime, all available military assets remain on the table as a clearer picture begins to emerge about what's needed, the general said.

"We're focused on the life-saving measures that we need to do there -- the assessment, the emergency response -- and then looking at what the humanitarian and disaster relief requirements are and providing international support to Haiti, to help them through this significant disaster," he said.

Obama Makes Haiti Response Top U.S. Priority
Release Date: 1/14/2010 1:54:00 PM

By Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- President Barack Obama said Jan. 14 he's made helping Haiti in the wake of a crippling earthquake the top priority of every U.S. government agency.

Speaking from the White House, Obama called the quake an unimaginable tragedy and said the United States has launched "a swift, coordinated and aggressive effort" to help.

Flanked by his national security team, the president said the U.S. response will require help from every government agency and the compassion of Americans.

"I've made it clear [to Cabinet officers and government agency heads] that Haiti must be a top priority for their departments and agencies right now," Obama said. "This is one of those moments that call out for American leadership."

American service members are deploying to the area, the president said.

"Several Coast Guard cutters are already there, providing everything from basic services like water to vital technical support for this massive logistical operation," he said. "Elements of the Army's 82nd Airborne Division will arrive today."

The United States also is deploying a Marine expeditionary unit, the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH-20).

The first waves of the U.S. rescue and relief effort are on the ground and at work, the president said.

"An airlift has been set up to deliver high-priority items like water and medicine," Obama said.

The United States is working closely with the Haitian government, the United Nations and relief organizations to deliver supplies, but it will take some time for supplies, personnel and equipment to arrive in Haiti, he added.

"Right now in Haiti, roads are impassible, the main port is damaged and communications are just beginning to come online, and aftershocks continue," he said. "None of this will seem quick enough, … but it's important that everyone in Haiti understand that one of the largest relief efforts in our recent history is moving toward Haiti."

The earthquake struck the evening of Jan. 12 near the capital of Port-au-Prince. The magnitude 7.0 quake flattened many areas of the city. Port-au-Prince is one of the largest cities in the Caribbean, and Haitian officials fear that at least 100,000 people may be dead.

American assets are pouring into the country. U.S. search and rescue teams have arrived, and medical personnel and relief supplies are arriving.

In the best of times, Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. The country suffers from extreme poverty, deforestation, a lack of infrastructure and political instability.

Obama pledged not to forsake the people of Haiti in their hour of need.

"American stands with you. The world stands with you," he said. "We know you are a strong and resilient people. You have endured a history of slavery and struggle and natural disaster and recovery. Through it all, your spirit has been unbroken and your faith unwavering. Today, you must know that help is arriving and much more help is on the way."

Sailors from MCAST Prepare for Deployment en route to Haiti
Release Date: 1/14/2010 4:57:00 PM

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Katrin Albritton, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) brought their gear on board USS Bataan (LHD 5) Jan. 13, in preparation for their deployment to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts following a magnitude 7.0 earthquake which struck southern Haiti Jan. 12.

A nine-man Maritime Civil Affairs Team (MCAT), from Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training (MCAST) Command, will be on hand to assist theater commanders with engagement and security, as well as to establish relations between governmental and non-governmental organizations and the civilian populace.

"We are deploying an experienced Maritime Civil Affairs Planner and MCAT team to support the needs of the Haitian people," said MCAST Commodore Capt. Claudia Risner. "MCAST is able to address a unique need in planning and conducting maritime security operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief."

The team includes a French speaking Sailor who has deployed to Haiti before and a native Haitian who is familiar with the area. The team members' cultural awareness and experience is a key element in their ability to quickly relate to the local people and to help alleviate suffering.

The expeditionary character of NECC forces uniquely positions them to quickly support out nation's response to the tragedy in Haiti. NECC forces support the Maritime Strategy with the agility and flexibility needed to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the Haitian people.

Sailors from MSRON-6 Prepare for Deployment en route to Haiti
Release Date: 1/14/2010 4:46:00 PM

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Katrin Albritton, Navy Expeditionary

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) loaded their gear on board USS Ft. McHenry (LSD 43) Jan. 14, in preparation for their deployment to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts following a magnitude 7.0 earthquake which struck southern Haiti Jan. 12.

More than 140 Sailors from Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 6, assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, loaded four patrol boats, communications gear and other types of equipment to assist with their upcoming mission.

"We're saving lives, doing our jobs, here to do protection," said Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW) Richard Glessner, a member of MSRON-6. "There are a lot of displaced people who heed our help and we're happy to do our job."

Another member of MSRON-6 is facing this from a personal perspective. Boatswain's Mate ate Seaman Dominique Pierre, who is originally from la Turture, Haiti, is a member of MSRON-6, and preparing to deploy along with this squadron.

"I don't know if my family is okay, yet," Pierre said. "But everything happens for a reason, and we're going to help people. I'm ready to do my job."

The expeditionary character of NECC forces uniquely positions them to quickly support out nation's response to the tragedy in Haiti. NECC forces support the Maritime Strategy with the agility and flexibility needed to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the Haitian people.

NATO Commander Expects 'Significant Progress' in Afghanistan
Release Date: 1/14/2010 4:30:00 PM

By John J. Kruzel, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- NATO's top military commander expects significant progress in Afghanistan before the scheduled departure of U.S. troops begins in July 2011, a timeline that he said lends focus to the mission.

The remarks Jan. 13 by Adm. James G. Stavridis, NATO's supreme allied commander for Europe, add weight to an American troop withdrawal start date that has been criticized as representing more a symbolic aspiration than a realistic commitment.

"I have great confidence that as we get forward toward 2011, we're going to have significant progress," Stavridis said in an interview. "If we do that, we will be able to start transitioning over to an Afghan security force lead, and that's going to be the key."

Characterizing the significance of the July 2011 target built into the new U.S. strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan announced last month, Stavridis backed a statement by Afghan President Hamid Karzai.

"I saw President Karzai in an interview last night saying that the 2011 date does not concern him; it helps focus things," Stavridis said. "I think that's a good way to think about it."

The new strategy President Barack Obama unveiled last month will send an additional 30,000 U.S. troops and at least 7,000 more NATO forces to Afghanistan, bringing the total there to around 150,000. The U.S. deployment is expected to include a brigade-sized element to train Afghan forces - a key component undergirding the transfer of responsibility to Afghanistan to begin in July 2011 that will enable the potential drawdown of American troops.

During a congressional hearing a day after the Dec. 1 strategy rollout, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the 18-month deadline signals the need for the Afghan government in Kabul to claim greater responsibility and shows the American public the war isn't open-ended.

Though any reduction in U.S. forces in July 2011 would be based on conditions on the ground, Gates told the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Defense Department expects to be able to transition uncontested areas to Afghan responsibility and gradually draw down at that time.

Echoing these remarks, Stavridis today emphasized the importance of handing over authority from the United States and NATO to Afghan forces.

"I'm very confident, as we get forward to 2011, we're going to have serious momentum in this area, because we're putting very significant resources against it from the whole NATO alliance," said Stavridis. "It will be job No. 1."

The Afghan military is slated to increase from 134,000 troops in December 2010 to 170,000 by July 2011. Some 70,000 U.S. and 43,000 NATO forces are in Afghanistan now as the increase of forces gets under way.

Similarly to the drop-off in violence that came in the wake of a U.S. troop surge in Iraq, Stavridis said, success in Afghanistan also will take shape through better security and improvements in government institutions.

"I think progress and success will look a lot like Iraq does today," said Stavridis. "I think what we'll end up with is a nation that will have reasonable control over its borders, it will have a reduced level of corruption and terrorist attacks, it will have a strong and dedicated security force, both in the army and in the police side, and I think we will then be able to transition province by province."

NTTC Meridian Named Bainbridge Award Winner
Release Date: 1/14/2010 4:40:00 PM

From Center for Service Support Public Affairs

NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) Meridian was named the 2009 USS Bainbridge Award winner by the director of the Navy Staff on Jan. 7.

The command was recognized for its outstanding contributions in its volunteer support efforts to the local community by Vice Adm. Sam Locklear via Navy message sent to the fleet.

NTTC personnel, as part of the Staff/Students Helping Interesting People in the Meridian Area Through Enthusiastic Service (SHIPMATES) program, logged more than 36,000 volunteer hours. Throughout the year, SHIPMATES supported such programs as Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity and Love's Kitchen. They also tutored students at their Personal Excellence Partnership school (West Kemper Elementary School), donated blood to the local community, and participated in Arbor Day and Earth Day events.

"Unquestionably, the best reward our volunteers earn is the unique feeling of serving the community and our great nation while, at the same time, making a difference in people's lives," said Cmdr. Chris Bownds, NTTC Meridian commanding officer.

"All of NTTC Meridian's programs are designed to improve quality of life within the local community through volunteerism," said Bownds. "Results are immediate and clearly visible, promoting a sense of accomplishment, and further empowering Navy's young Sailors with the knowledge that they can make a difference. It encourages them to take a more active role in the future through proactive engagement and leadership."

NTTC volunteers who participated in the many community service projects not only gave back to the community, making a difference in the lives of their neighbors, but they also gained something personal in return.

"Our projects are successful because of the dedication and willingness of our volunteers to contribute their time in order to make a difference," said Ship's Serviceman 1st Class David M. Zepeda. "Their contributions and efforts have a lasting and direct impact on the local community and bring about positive changes in the lives of those they help."

Capt. Bernie Dunn, commanding officer for the Center for Service Support in Newport, R.I., congratulated the folks at Meridian as well as all of the men and women throughout the CSS domain for their dedication to communities in their respective areas.

"Everyone should be proud of your efforts to make the communities we live in better places," Dunn said. "We are especially proud of our NTTC Meridian team for their great example in support of the Meridian community and, in the process, instilling values of contribution, engagement and teamwork for our new Sailors."

The USS Bainbridge Award is named in honor of its namesake ship, whose crew provided tremendous community support, and is given to a Navy command in recognition of volunteer efforts working with America's communities.

Vinson Deploys to Respond to Haiti Earthquake
Release Date: 1/13/2010 7:15:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Robert A. Wood Sr., U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) has been ordered to deploy to Haiti to conduct Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response (HA/DR) missions Jan. 13. Currently, Vinson is underway in the Atlantic Ocean, and will briefly loiter off the coast of Mayport to receive equipment and supplies.

Along with Vinson, USS Bataan (LHD 5) embarked with Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU 22), USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), and USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) were ordered to get underway as soon as possible. Additionally, USS Normandy (CG 60) and USS Underwood (FFG 36) will deploy from their homeports and stand ready to assist, while USNS Comfort (T-AH-20), homeported in Baltimore, Md., is preparing to get underway, if required.

A Navy P-3 Orion aircraft from the Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 detachment operating from Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Comalapa, El Salvador, took off early this morning to conduct aerial surveys of the area affected by the earthquake.

USS Higgins (DDG 76) based out of Naval Station San Diego will arrive on station off the coast of Haiti tomorrow to provide afloat logistical services for the Coast Guard helicopters.

Additionally, various units are prepared to provide assistance with sea-based helicopters, to include H-53 Sea Stallions and H-60 Seahawks.

As the Navy component command of U.S. Southern Command, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Routine operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

SOUTHCOM to Deploy Assessment Team to Haiti
Release Date: 1/13/2010 5:17:00 PM

From U.S. Southern Command Public Affairs

MIAMI (NNS) -- A team of 30 people from U.S. Southern Command will deploy to Haiti in support of U.S. relief efforts in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake Jan. 12.

The team, which includes U.S. military engineers, operational planners, a command and control group and communication specialists, will arrive in Haiti Jan. 13 on two C-130 Hercules aircraft.

The team is scheduled to work with U.S. Embassy personnel as well as Haitian, United Nations and international officials to assess the situation and facilitate follow-on U.S. military support.

Other immediate response activities include;
- At first light today, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter evacuated four critically injured U.S. Embassy staff to the Naval Station Guantanamo, Cuba, hospital for further treatment.

- Elements of the U.S. Air Force 1st Special Operations Wing are deploying today to the international airport at Port au Prince, Haiti, to provide air traffic control capability and airfield operations. They are expected to arrive in Haiti this afternoon.

- A U.S. Navy P-3 Orion aircraft from the Forward Operating Location at Comalapa, El Salvador, took off early this morning to conduct an aerial reconnaissance of the area affected by the earthquake.

- The U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), is underway and expected to arrive off the coast of Haiti Jan. 14. Additional U.S. Navy ships are underway to Haiti.

Florida-based SOUTHCOM is closely monitoring the situation and is working with the U.S. State Department, United States Agency for International Development and the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance and other national and international agencies to determine how to best respond to this crisis.

SOUTHCOM is well versed at providing humanitarian assistance in the region. Since 2005, the command has led U.S. military support to 14 major relief missions, including assistance to Haiti in September 2008. During that mission, U.S. military forces from USS Kearsarge and other units airlifted 3.3 million pounds of aid to communities that were devastated by a succession of major storms.

Navy to Commission Littoral Combat Ship Independence
Release Date: 1/13/2010 6:52:00 PM

From Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy will commission Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Independence Jan. 16 during an 11 a.m. CST ceremony at Cooper Riverside Park in Mobile, Ala.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Doreen Scott, wife of the former Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Terry Scott, will serve as ship's sponsor. In the time-honored Navy tradition, she will give the first order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"

Five previous ships have been named Independence, which recognizes the cornerstone of our nation's foundation that many Americans have sacrificed to ensure. The first Independence was a 10-gun sloop that served during the War of Independence. The second Independence, the first ship of the line in the Navy, was launched in 1814 as a 74-gun ship, but later refitted to a 54-gun frigate. The third Independence served with the Naval Overseas Transportation Service following the end of World War I. The fourth Independence (CVL 22), a small aircraft carrier commissioned in 1943, earned eight battle stars during World War II. The fifth Independence (CV 62) was an aircraft carrier commissioned in 1959 and decommissioned in 1998.

The Navy officially accepted delivery of the future USS Independence (LCS 2) Dec. 18, 2009, in Mobile. Independence is the second of two sea frames being produced, and the first LCS of the General Dynamics variant. USS Freedom (LCS 1), the Lockheed Martin variant, was commissioned Nov. 8, 2008.

A fast, agile, and high-technology surface combatant, Independence will be a platform for launch and recovery of manned and unmanned vehicles. To meet increased demand for mission-tailored forces packages, its modular design will support interchangeable mission packages, allowing the ship to be reconfigured for antisubmarine warfare, mine warfare, or surface warfare missions on an as-needed basis. The LCS will be able to swap out mission packages pierside in a matter of days, adapting as the tactical situation demands. These ships will also feature advanced networking capability to share tactical information with other Navy aircraft, ships, submarines and joint units.

Independence is an innovative combatant designed to operate quickly in shallow water environments to counter challenging threats in coastal regions, specifically mines, submarines and fast surface craft. The LCS is capable of speeds in excess of 40 knots and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep.

Independence will be manned by one of two rotational crews, Blue and Gold, similar to the rotational crews assigned to Trident submarines. The crews will be augmented by one of three mission package crews during focused mission assignments. The prospective commanding officer of the Blue Crew is Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, who was born in Louisville, Ky., and raised in New Albany, Ind. The prospective commanding officer of the Gold Crew is Cmdr. Michael Riley, a native of Phoenix, Ariz. Independence will be homeported in San Diego as a part of the Pacific Fleet.

In September 2009, the Navy announced that in an effort to introduce more effective competition to control costs, it will down select between the two LCS designs in fiscal 2010. At down select, a single prime contractor and shipyard will be awarded a fixed price incentive contract for up to ten ships with two ships in fiscal 2010 and options through fiscal 2014. This decision was reached after careful review of the industry bids, consideration of total program costs, and ongoing discussions with the Congress.

Mission Packages Key to LCS Capabilities
Release Date: 1/13/2010 7:00:00 PM

By L.t. Sean Riordan, Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- The littoral combat ship (LCS) is revolutionary in its use of modularity and open-architecture to ensure it is able to adapt to the ever-changing threat environment.

"LCS has some core capabilities, but it is largely self-defensive," said Capt. Michael Good, program manager, LCS Mission Modules. "The embarkable mission package augments the sea-frame and gives LCS offensive capabilities in three focused mission areas: mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare."

"We're more versatile," said Lt. Cmdr. James Schmitt, the pilot of an MH-60S helicopter that arrived aboard Pre-Commisioning Unit Independence (LCS 2) Jan. 12. "It is part of the master plan to incorporate more capabilities into fewer platforms." Schmitt said the helicopter is specifically designed for the mine countermeasures mission, but it is still able to support other needs the ship may have.

The MH-60S, from Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, along with mine countermeasure equipment from LCS Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Detachment 1, represents a mission package that can be assembled to meet the specific and changing demands of the maritime strategy.

Mineman 1st Class Ricardo Contreras, who served on a mine countermeasures ship and is now as part of the LCS MCM detachment, was impressed with the improvements.

"Since the mission module allows us to be on an LCS, we can go where we need to go a lot quicker and the unmanned vehicles allow us to reduce the risk necessary to accomplish the mission."

LCS is a fast, agile, mission-focused ship that demonstrates the latest in naval warfighting technology. The ship is specifically designed to defeat "anti-access" threats in shallow, coastal water regions, including fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines, and mines. To meet the combatant commander's increased demand for mission-tailored forces packages, LCS features an interchangeable modular design that allows the ship to be reconfigured to meet mission requirements.

Independence will be commissioned Jan. 16 in Mobile, Ala. Following commissioning, Independence will conduct further testing and evaluation before eventually heading toward its homeport in San Diego.

U.S.-Japan Alliance is Cornerstone of Security in Asia, says 7th Fleet Commander
Release Date: 1/13/2010 7:02:00 PM

From U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-Japan security treaty, the U.S. Navy's senior commander in the Western Pacific called the alliance the "cornerstone of peace and stability throughout the Asia-Pacific region."

"I consider our alliance with Japan to be critical to the security and stability of this region, and I know our Sailors do as well," said Vice Adm. John Bird, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet.

"For the past half century this treaty has successfully deterred aggression, while promoting common values of freedom and democracy, and creating the conditions that have allowed the economies of Japan and nations around the region to flourish."

Jan. 19 marks the 50th anniversary of signing of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the U.S. and Japan. Signed in Washington D.C. in 1960 and ratified later that year by both nations, the document has served as foundation for the U.S. Navy's strong working relationship with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force.

JMSDF and 7th Fleet forces work together on daily basis to train, share information, coordinate operations, and plan for contingencies. The bilateral Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX), held last November with nearly 30 ships participating to focus on enhancing command and control and air, undersea and surface warfare, has been conducted more than 20 times since its inception.

U.S. Navy and JMSDF ships throughout Japan will be in full dress ship on Jan. 19 to mark the anniversary. Additionally, the destroyers USS Lassen and JS Oonami will conduct a joint colors ceremony in Yokosuka. Other celebrations will be held throughout the year, to include personnel exchanges, sister ship and squadron events, community service projects and port visits.

Bird said the commemoration of the alliance symbolizes how the maritime relationship is honed, tested and strengthened on a daily basis.

"Our mutual understanding of commitments to each other under the security treaty is the reason for this incredible bond between our Sailors and between our nations," said Bird. "This alliance has served as the basis for our strong relationship with the JMSDF, arguably the most critical navy-to-navy partnership in the world."

USS Missouri Returns, 100 Service Members Reenlist
Release Date: 1/12/2010 8:11:00 AM

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

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- More than 100 service members reenlisted aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial as the ship returned to its home pier near the Arizona Memorial Jan. 7.

The former USS Missouri (BB 63) returned to its pier along Battleship Row, Ford Island, Jan. 7 after three months of extensive maintenance work at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard (PHNS).

During the historic journey back from the dry dock to Battleship Row, Naval Station Pearl Harbor Executive Officer Capt. Lawrence Scruggs reenlisted the service members from the different branches.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience," said Scruggs. "To be on a battleship that had a big historical impact to WWII, it brings home the sacrifice of our veterans and the hard life that the Sailors of the earlier days had to maintain a battleship like this. I'm excited to be able to reenlist our fine Airmen, Sailors, Marines and Soldiers that have been in harm's way and represent the best of the United States."

Missouri returned after 12 weeks and $18 million worth of preservation and maintenance work at PHNS's largest dry dock facility.

"We are returning [Missouri] to Battleship Row," said Mike Pagano, the military liaison for the USS Missouri Memorial Association Inc. "We're going back to where she belongs. She is one of the bookends of WWII. The Arizona signifies the beginning of WWII, and the Battleship Missouri represents the end of WWII. The place of tragedy, the Arizona, the place of triumph, the Missouri."

After its return to Battleship Row, the ship is scheduled to re-open to the public on Jan. 30 to show off its new coat of paint, enhanced tour route and informational signage. A new custom-designed tenting will also be installed over high traffic areas and special events sites.

"It's almost like she's getting back into service just as these people [re-enlistees] are saying that, 'I'm going to commit to another three or four years of going back into the breach, in a time of war,'" said Mike Pagano, the military liaison for the USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc.

Pagano personally coordinated the reenlistment ceremony. He said the majority of the re-enlistees aboard the ship are signing up for three to four additional years of service.
Since opening in 1999, the memorial has hosted reenlistments, promotions, commissionings, retirements and change of command ceremonies for Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and Marines. Over the last three years, the memorial has accommodated an average of 357 military ceremonies for 7,100 military personnel and guests per year.

Master Sgt. Hoang McChesney, assigned to U.S. Pacific Command, said he was excited when he heard about the re-enlistment ceremony aboard Missouri during its return to Battleship Row.

"This was an awesome opportunity," said McChesney. "My wife told me about it, and I just had to jump on top of it. You never get a chance like this, so I wanted to do this. I've never been on a ship while it's moving."

McChesney, who has been with the Air Force for 18 years, is looking forward to serving another four years.

"Right now I just want to finish my degree and start planning for the next phase of my life," said McChesney.

Navy Supply Corps School Commanding Officer Relieved
Release Date: 1/11/2010 4:10:00 PM

By Ed Barker, Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The commanding officer of the Navy Supply Corps School (NSCS) in Athens, Ga. was relieved of his duties Jan. 8.

Rear Adm. Joseph Kilkenny, commander, Naval Education and Training Command relieved the commanding officer of NSCS, Capt. John Titus.

Kilkenny cited a loss of confidence in Titus' ability to command as the reason for his relief.

Cmdr. Raymond P. Wilson, executive officer of the school, has assumed temporary command until a permanent replacement is identified.

Titus took command of NSCS on Aug. 7, 2008. A reassignment location for Titus is still to be determined.

Keep Your Family Safe: Practice Operational Security on Social Media
Release Date: 1/11/2010 2:13:00 PM

By Bruce Moody, Fleet and Family Support Program, Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors and Navy families can prevent potential adversaries from discovering critical information on social media sites by practicing operational security.

Examples of critical information includes where a ship is going and when it is returning home or information about Sailors who deploy as individual augmentees.

Navy families, too, should remain vigilant in not volunteering any information that could unnecessarily put their Sailors in harm's way. Deployed and even day-to-day operations are in many cases classified, and those sharing information with each loved ones or friends should recognize the importance of keeping sensitive information secure.

"Family members are vital to the success of the Navy," Shauna Turner, manager of the Deployment Support Program at the Fleet and Family Support Program, said. "But, potential adversaries also understand this."

It is not unprecedented for spouses and family members of U.S. military personnel to be targeted for intelligence collection. This is true in the United States and especially true overseas.

Navy family members all know some bits of critical information. It may not be classified, and it may even seem insignificant. But, to the potential adversary, it is a piece of the puzzle. The power of emerging media tools is a two-edged sword: It makes information exceptionally accessible when posted - for anyone who is interested, including potential adversaries.

When communicating on social media sites do not post the following information:
- Exact deployment dates or return dates. This applies to ships, subs, squadrons and individual augmentees.
- Dates or location of a ship's upcoming ports of call.
- Detailed information about a mission.
- References to trends in crew's morale or an individual's personal problems.
- Details concerning security procedures, response times or tactics.
- Information about equipment readiness.
- Speculations about future operations.

"The main rule is to simply use common sense," Turner said. "Think before you post. Anything you post on social media, including photos, is instantly available around the world. When in doubt, don't post it."

Social media sites allow Sailors and Navy families to keep in contact like never before. It is a wonderful way to feel close to someone who is far away. Sailors and Navy families are encouraged to enjoy the connection that social media offers while practicing operational security and keeping mindful of the risks presented with the widespread dissemination of information.

Navy's Second Littoral Combat Ship to be Commissioned
Release Date: 1/8/2010 10:41:00 PM

By Lt.j.g. Jan Bowers, Surface Force Public Affairs

Mobile, Ala. (NNS) -- USS Independence (LCS 2) will be commissioned Jan. 16 at a ceremony in Mobile, Ala.

Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is a fast, agile, mission-focused ship that demonstrates the latest in naval warfighting technology. The ship is specifically designed to defeat "anti-access" threats in shallow, coastal water regions, including fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines and mines. To meet the combatant commander's increased demand for mission-tailored forces packages, LCS features an interchangeable modular design that allows the ship to be reconfigured to meet mission requirements.

"The ship is large enough and flexible enough to hold just about anything you could think of in terms of coastal and littoral warfare," says Cmdr. Michael Riley, commanding officer, Gold Crew. "If you build modules we could carry them. That's one of the true unique things about Independence. I think we are going to expand way beyond the initial three mission sets the ship was designed to do, and of course do those extremely well."

Independence is a 419-foot aluminum trimaran, the first of its design in the Surface Fleet. It has a displacement of 2,800 metric tons, is capable of speeds in excess of 45 knots, and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep. Propelled by four water jets in addition to two diesel and two gas turbine engines, the ship boasts a range of over 3,500 nautical miles.

Independence was christened by Mrs. Doreen Scott, wife of the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Terry Scott, in a ceremony in Mobile, Ala. on Oct. 4, 2008. The ship completed builder's sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico, and was delivered to the Navy on Dec. 18, 2009.

"There are a lot of roles this ship can play to complement the ships we already have," says Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, commanding officer, Blue Crew. "Other ships might have more firepower, but lack the speed of LCS. Other carry more and have a larger flight deck, but cannot defend themselves as well. LCS fills that niche."

The Sailors who will bring the ship to life on Jan. 16 are part of an innovative manning reconstruct that reduces crew size, demanding each Sailor maintain high levels of proficiency in multiple fields, and optimizes ship operability with multiple crews. Independence is manned by two rotational crews, "blue" and "gold," of 40 Sailors each. These crews are further augmented by detachment specialists for each of the mission modules.

The rotational crew model is already proving effective aboard USS Freedom (LCS 1), Independence's predecessor in the LCS class. Freedom is currently readying for her maiden deployment, accelerated approximately two years. The Navy expects to learn key operational lessons about Freedom in a deployment setting, and to integrate those lessons into the larger LCS fleet, projected to eventually reach 55 ships.

While Freedom prepares for early deployment, Independence looks forward to commissioning. The decision to commission the ship in Mobile, Ala., where construction began nearly four years ago, is testament to the incredible support the community has lent the Navy.

"By commissioning in Mobile," says Renshaw, "we are also fortunate to have many of the required resources in place to allow for detailed and efficient planning for this exciting occasion."

"The city of Mobile has really made us feel welcome," adds Riley. "I want to extend my gratitude for everything they have been doing and continue to do for us."

Following commissioning, Independence will conduct further testing and evaluation before eventually heading toward its homeport in San Diego.

Two New Navy Working Uniforms Announced
Release Date: 1/8/2010 4:42:00 PM

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Two new Navy Working Uniforms (NWU) will hit the fleet in fiscal year 2011.

The first, NWU Type II, a desert digital camouflage uniform of four colors with the anchor, Constitution and eagle (ACE) logo embedded in the print, will be worn by special warfare operators and Sailors who support them during deployment and deployment training exercises.

"The desert camouflage uniform is not going away," said Capt. Vince Drouillard, branch head within Navy's personnel, plans and policy division. "Sailors, other than Navy special warfare operators and supporting Sailors, will continue to wear the current tricolor desert camouflage utility uniform in desert environments when issued by authorizing commands."

The second, NWU Type III, is a woodland digital camouflage uniform which also has four colors and the ACE logo embedded in the print. It will be the standard camouflage uniform worn in non-desert environments and stateside.

Both uniforms, announced in NAVADMIN 374/09, are organizational clothing provided to Sailors by commands authorized to issue them.

The unisex uniforms will begin conformance testing to validate design, fit and wear later in fiscal year 2010. Fleet implementation is expected to begin in late 2011 with deploying combat and direct command support commands and units receiving priority in the distribution process.

Both new uniforms have an authorized matching pattern Gortex parka with a removable fleece liner. Sailors can get complete information on the new NWU Type II and Type III uniforms in NAVADMIN 374/09 available at www.npc.navy.mil.

For more information on Navy uniforms visit http://www.npc.navy.mil/commandsupport/usnavyuniforms/.

American Hero Awarded Purple Heart and POW Medals
Release Date: 1/7/2010 9:25:00 PM

By Darren Harrison, Naval District Washington Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A Navy veteran accepted his Prisoner of War and Purple Heart medals at the Washington Navy Yard Jan. 4 - more than 40 years after his service in Vietnam.

Lawrence J. Stark was one of only two Department of Defense civilian employees who were captured and he spent five years as a prisoner.

"This gentleman lost half a decade of his life in captivity and served as part of the Department of Defense when he was captured," said Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) Juan Garcia. "That kind of sacrifice is rare. We haven't had anyone held for that long in [recent] conflicts; it doesn't happen like that anymore. So it's an honor to be here to meet and be part of a ceremony for a real American hero."

After fighting off attacks for two days, Stark was eventually captured on Feb. 1, 1968 during the Tet Offensive. He was released five years later in March 1973. Members of Stark's family, in attendance for the ceremony, said that the family did not know Stark's fate until just before his release and his father died without knowing that his son was a POW.

"He was taken captive and really the family did not know for sure if he was alive, if he had survived the capture until shortly before his release in 1973," said brother-in-law Richard Flammini. "Unfortunately his father died during his captivity but the family never gave up hope that he would come back and fortunately he did and we are here today and really excited for the opportunity to reward him for his service and his perseverance."

Stark was working for the Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. when he was invited to go to Vietnam and work for a consortium of contractors (RMK-BRJ) under contract to DoD.

Stark accepted the invitation and went to Vietnam in April 1966 and spent a year with RMK-BRJ before returning to the United States. After a couple of months, Stark returned to Vietnam and was hired as a U.S. Navy civil service employee.

Stark was assigned to work in the city of Hue in December 1967 and was taken prisoner two months later. At the time of the capture, the five military personnel next door and the four men in his house, combined forces and resisted capture. At the end of two days of fighting, with practically no ammunition left with which to defend themselves, two men had been killed and everyone else was wounded.

"How does a civilian become eligible for a Purple Heart? People ask me that all of the time," Stark said. "I tell them that President Kennedy authorized the Purple Heart for civilians in 1962 if certain conditions are met, one of which is you had to be in combat. And we were in Hue, and we were in combat. We defended the Navy building and in the process lost a couple of guys and most of the guys were wounded. They put a mortar right on the roof and four or five of us happened to be right there. One guy who was wounded died and the others all received wounds."

Presenting the medals to Stark at the ceremony inside the U.S. Navy Museum was Naval District Washington Commandant Rear Adm. Patrick J. Lorge who paid tribute to Stark's heroism.

"As service men and women we are trained to react during a time of conflict or crisis," Lorge said. "However to accomplish what Lawrence J. Stark did as a civilian is nothing short of remarkable and deserves the highest possible recognition. I'm proud to be in his presence and humbled to share this stage with him and honored to present him with both the Purple Heart and Prisoner of War medals."

After his release Stark worked in the human resources office on the Washington Navy Yard for former director of Human Resources Dr. Vincent Vaccaro.

"I am indeed honored and humbled that Larry has asked me to speak this afternoon. First let me offer congratulations for a long overdue recognition. I am extremely pleased today,' Vaccaro said. "One of our colleagues is finally being recognized for his courage and achievements."

In addition to receiving the two medals, two members of the Rolling Thunder, Vietnam veterans Artie Muller and Michael Cobb, presented Stark with a Rolling Thunder leather jacket and declared him an honorary member.

"It's about time Larry was honored for his commitment to the freedom of our country while he was in Vietnam. He was never recognized with the POW medal, and he deserved it and has waited many, many years for that and also for the Purple Heart," Muller said.

From Sculptor to Sailor
Release Date: 1/7/2010 2:02:00 PM

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (AW) Paul DeLaughter, Naval Recruiting District New England Public Affairs

BOSTON (NNS) -- Just days before shipping off to boot camp, a Navy Delayed Entry Program recruit lent his artistic talents to several ice sculptures in support of Boston's annual First Night Celebration held Dec. 31.

Anthony Pacitto, a chef and part-time ice sculptor from Wakefield, Mass., holds a culinary arts degree and has worked as a chef since 2004.

Pacitto said that he decided to join the Navy to see the world.

"I wanted a change – a chance to do good in the world," said Pacitto. "At 26, I just wasn't happy with where I was in my life, and the Navy is something I've always been interested in. I wanted to challenge myself."

His reasons for joining are becoming a popular sentiment among America's youth. So much so that the Navy changed its advertising brand in October 2009 from the older "Accelerate your life" campaign to "Americas Navy … a global force for good."

The first commercial advertisement under the new campaign, "The Calling," was launched Oct. 12 in connection with the Navy's 234th birthday. The second commercial under the campaign, "The Shield," is scheduled to air in February 2010. The new commercials and print products associated with the new brand are available at www.navy.com.

Commander, Navy Recruiting Command Rear Adm. Craig S. Faller recently said in a statement that "The Calling" is more than a recruiting slogan.

"It's a message to our Sailors … and our citizens across this great country what good we do around the world to help keep [Americans] safe at home," Faller said.

Faller said it is this "call to serve" that is drawing young people to naval service.

Research gathered by Navy Recruiting Command and its civilian advertising agency, Campbell-Ewald, found that people considering naval service are primarily doing so because they want to do their part in making the world a better place.

Navy Counselor (SCW) Greg Perpignan, who is the recruiter in charge at the Waltham, Mass., Navy Recruiting Station, said Pacitto is exactly what the Navy is looking for.

"He showed up knocking on the door," Perpignan said. "He wanted the Navy bad and was going to do whatever it took to get it."

He said Pacitto initially wasn't qualified to join because his test scores were too low and his weight was too high, but that wouldn't stop him.

"He showed up to meetings even before he was able to enlist," said Perpignan. "He would come in and help around the office and he kept working on his test scores and fitness until he got them both within standards. He definitely has the work ethic to be successful in the Navy."

Eventually Pacitto was able to enroll in the Navy's delayed entry program, and he will leave for basic training Jan. 20.

Donald Chapelle, owner of Brilliant Ice Sculptures located in Lawrence, Mass., and Pacitto's boss for the past 6 years, said he is happy for his former protégé but admits that his shoes will be hard to fill. He said the Navy is gaining a valuable asset because not only is Pacitto talented but he is hardworking as well.

"You know … you can have all the talent in the world and still be lazy," said Chapelle. "People who are ambitious, hardworking and willing to learn are the people who become successful. I think he's a rock star."

After basic training, Pacitto will receive follow-on training to become a boatswain's mate – a far departure from working in the kitchen – leaving the question, why didn't the cook enlist as a cook?

"My plan right now is just to make it to day two of boot camp," Pacitto said, "It's just like the movie 'Men of Honor.' If I don't get to the top, then I don't consider it a success. I want to be a chief – I want to be a master chief. The next time I work in a kitchen it will be at my own restaurant."

CNO Lands on Carrier Operating in the North Arabian Sea
Release Date: 1/6/2010 12:02:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW/AW) Amara R. Timberlake, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- The chief of naval operations (CNO) arrived aboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68), the aircraft carrier currently conducting operations in the Northern Arabian Sea, Jan. 6.

Adm. Gary Roughead, CNO, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick West are visiting the carrier to hear directly from the Sailors of the deployed strike group.

During his visit Roughead will spend time talking to Sailors and observing day-to-day operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). He will also hold an all-hands call with Sailors in the ship's hangar bay.

"It's important for me to visit Nimitz and the fleet as often as I can to get a sense of what we're doing and what's on the minds of our Sailors; what they're thinking about and the ideas they have to make our Navy better." said Roughead. "You can get a very narrow view of things in Washington; and if you're not out listening to our great Sailors around the world, especially here on Nimitz, you're not getting the full picture."

During his visit Roughead is scheduled to re-enlist Sailors as well as pin on enlisted air and surface warfare devices on newly appointed warfare specialists.

Since entering the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations Sep. 18., Nimitz has flown more than 2,058 sorties in support of OEF, providing 30 percent of the close air support to the coalition forces in Afghanistan.

Nimitz CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of USS Nimitz, embarked Carrier Air Wing 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.

Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.

Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge.

Revolutionary Ship Readies for Commissioning
Release Date: 1/6/2010 4:09:00 PM

By Lt.j.g. Jan Bowers, Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- Pre-Commissioning Unit Independence (LCS 2) will be commissioned Jan. 16.

Advanced technology, unique manning, and a very recognizable tri-hull – at first glance, nearly everything about Independence's steep angles, high bridge, and aluminum construction appears to be the first of its kind. That impression continues inside, where a spacious mission module bay is reached by stairs instead of shin-banging ladders, and down below, where four water jets compliment two diesel and two gas turbine engines.

LCS is a fast, agile, mission-focused ship that demonstrates the latest in naval warfighting technology. The ship is specifically designed to defeat "anti-access" threats in shallow, coastal water regions, including fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines, and mines. To meet the combatant commander's increased demand for mission-tailored forces packages, LCS features an interchangeable modular design that allows the ship to be reconfigured to meet mission requirements.

"The ship is large enough and flexible enough to hold just about anything you could think of in terms of coastal and littoral warfare," said Cmdr. Michael Riley, commanding officer, Gold Crew. "If you build modules we could carry them. That's one of the true unique things about Independence. I think we are going to expand way beyond the initial three mission sets the ship was designed to do, and of course do those extremely well."

The Sailors who will bring the ship to life on Jan. 16 are part of an innovative manning reconstruct that reduces crew size, demanding each Sailor maintain high levels of proficiency in multiple fields, and optimizes ship operability with multiple crews. Independence is manned by two rotational crews, "blue" and "gold," of 40 Sailors each. These crews are further augmented by detachment specialists for each of the mission modules.

"We ask every one of our Sailors to be on their game all the time, and in terms of manpower provide a great product," said Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, commanding officer, Blue Crew. "That team has come together, and with this great product and this great ship, we will be ready to take her and do the nation's tasking, hopefully sooner rather than later."

"Both LCS 1 and LCS 2 were designed to meet the same requirements with reduced manning," said Rear Adm. Jim Murdoch, LCS program manager. "In the last several years, we have conducted a great deal of assessment to be sure we implement this shift without any loss of efficiency or increase in vulnerability. Manning of the ship is centered around the question of whether you have enough people to fight it."

"On other ships, Sailors from every department help in the kitchen, and the cooks do just that – they cook," said Renshaw. "On LCS, we have three cooks who can also shoot a gun, fight a fire, manage systems, and stand anti-terrorism watches. Our Sailors have a lot of skills."

"My best machine-gunner is a culinary specialist; my best emergency medical technician is an electronics technician," Riley said. "We've really brought out the best in the Sailors we have on board."

The rotational crew model is already proving effective aboard USS Freedom (LCS 1), Independence's predecessor in the LCS class. Freedom is currently readying for her maiden deployment, accelerated approximately two years. The Navy expects to learn key operational lessons about Freedom in a deployment setting, and to integrate those lessons into the larger LCS fleet, projected to eventually reach 55 ships.

While Freedom prepares for early deployment, Independence looks forward to commissioning. The decision to commission the ship in Mobile, Ala., where construction began nearly four years ago, is testament to the incredible support the community has lent the Navy.

"By commissioning in Mobile, we are also fortunate to have many of the required resources in place to allow for detailed and efficient planning for this exciting occasion," said Renshaw.

"The city of Mobile has really made us feel welcome," Riley said. "I want to extend my gratitude for everything they have been doing and continue to do for us."

Following commissioning, Independence will conduct further testing and evaluation before eventually heading toward its homeport in San Diego.

Navy Non-Kinetic Air Power for OEF
Release Date: 1/6/2010 12:14:00 PM

From USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Carrier Air Wing 11 employs non-kinetic force to support troops on the ground in Afghanistan, minimizing the potential for civilian casualties. Non-kinetic force is intended not to cause any physical damage.

The EA-6B Prowlers assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135 deploy daily from the flight deck of the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) jamming electronic signals in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

"Our main focus of effort is to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. That means we preserve it for coalition forces, and we deny its use to Afghan insurgents. If we can successfully do that, many times the ground commander may not need a bomb," said Lt. Cmdr. Blake Tornga, maintenance officer from VAQ-135.

The missions Prowlers fly directly support the July 2009 tactical directive issued by Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal, commander of coalition forces in Afghanistan.

"We must fight the insurgents, and will use the tools at our disposal to both defeat the enemy and protect our forces," McChrystal outlined in the directive. The directive clearly states limitations on the use of force that could result in civilian casualties in Afghanistan.

"The enemy command and control network in Afghanistan is fairly dispersed and flexible. We have to constantly adapt our tactics, based on new technology in the hands of the enemy, to interdict parts of that network," Tornga said.

When the Prowlers were first received by the Navy in January of 1971 and deployed to Vietnam in 1972, the primary mission was focused on jamming enemy radar. They supported strike aircraft, ships and ground troops by degrading the enemy's early warning capability and electronic weapons systems.

The EA-6B of yesterday, outfitted with technology of today, has adapted its platform to support Operation Enduring Freedom in a way no other airframe can.

"There are very few electronic attack platforms out there," said Tornga. "We are the only tactical electronic attack platform. Mountain valleys, small turns, staying tight with a convoy, that mission right now can only be done with the EA-6B."

Tornga explained that the intentions of McChrystal's directive are what Prowlers have been doing for years. "There will certainly remain a need for kinetics in support of the ground forces – but being able to turn a kinetic situation into a non-kinetic one is pretty rewarding," said Tornga.

"Some of the real-time feedback we get from the ground troops after a successful mission makes me realize why we need to be here, and it makes this deployment very, very meaningful."

Since entering the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations Sep. 18., Nimitz has flown more than 2,058 sorties in support of OEF, providing 30 percent of the close air support to the coalition forces in Afghanistan.
Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of Nimitz, embarked CVW 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.

Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.

Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge.

Ike Strike Group Deploys
Release Date: 1/2/2010 2:44:00 PM

From USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) deployed Jan. 2 for a six-month deployment in support of 5th and 6th Fleet operations.

IKE CSG is made up of Commander, CSG 8; the aircraft carrier IKE, homeported in Norfolk, Va.; Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW) 7; Commander, Destroyer Squadron 28; the guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74), homeported in Norfolk; and the Mayport, Fla.-based ships, guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) and guided-missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG 64) and USS Farragut (DDG 99).

IKE CSG missions focus heavily on maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts that help establish conditions for regional stability.

"I'm extremely proud of the men and women of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group," said Rear Adm. Phil Davidson, commander of IKE CSG. "They've exceeded all expectations in a very short amount of turnaround time. We are ready to go over the horizon and support the troops on the ground in Afghanistan, support the nation's Maritime Strategy, and protect our nation's interests."

The deployment is part of an on-going rotation of forward-deployed forces to support maritime security operations in international waters around the globe.

IKE CSG consists of approximately 6,000 Sailors who, over the last four months, have successfully completed refresher training and certifications to ensure they operate effectively and safely together.

"IKE returned from a successful combat deployment last summer. We spent most of November (2009) at sea training during a challenging Composite Training Unit Exercise, and we spent December (2009) making sure the ship, our Sailors and our families are ready for this deployment. This is an amazing ship, but what's even more amazing are the young Americans who bring it to life," said Capt. Dee Mewbourne, IKE's commanding officer.

Nimitz Keeps Golden Anchor for Fourth Year
Release Date: 1/2/2010 10:21:00 AM

By USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, awarded USS Nimitz (CVN 68) the Retention Excellence Award, also known as Golden Anchor, for the fourth year in a row.

Deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Nimitz has ordered several cans of gold paint to apply to her two 30-ton anchors, the privilege afforded to award winners.

"Retention starts with dedicated leaders, mentorship and a proactive career development team," said Navy Counselor Chief Michael Cheshier, Nimitz command career counselor. "We have a good command atmosphere here, one that Nimitz has maintained for many years".

Retention excellence award winners are required to win a minimum of two of the four quarterly honor rolls in 2009.

Nimitz succeeded in winning the two quarterly honor roll awards by meeting the requirements for each zone while keeping the attrition of early separating Sailors below the 6.2 percent threshold, said Cheshier.

This is a team effort, said Cheshier, pointing out that winning would not have been possible without the departmental and divisional career counselors who worked closely with Sailors to help define their goals and best develop their naval careers.

"The importance of this particular award is that it validates our shipwide effort," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class (AW) Mark Berglund, Nimitz' Air Department career counselor. "It is a measuring stick for our career programs, and it shows that we must be doing something right if our Sailors continue to stay Navy," he said.

Since entering the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations Sep. 18., Nimitz has flown more than 1,800 combat sorties, providing 30 percent of the close air support to the coalition forces in Afghanistan.

Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG), commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of USS Nimitz, embarked CVW 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.

Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.

Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge.

Tips on how to protect your computer and personal data

(From the Defense Finance and Accounting Service regarding myPay but good advice for all computer users.)

ARLINGTON, Va (Feb. 12, 2007) As the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) continues to protect information and data on myPay – we want to remind customers that they too have a responsibility to take measures to protect their personal information from scams and identity theft.

In the past several months, two private U.S. industry firms disclosed that overseas hackers broke into customer accounts. According to the chief information officer (CIO) at one of these firms, these attacks were carried out by “keylogging” software installed on users PC’s. This software allowed the thieves to steal the users account information from their home computers, by capturing the user's keystrokes.

Key logging software is often installed on systems when an individual simply views emails or clicks links that look and seem like reputable sites. . They were able to detect passwords, IDs and other personal information from a diagnostic used in the software development which is also known as “keystroke logging”.

myPay uses a variety of security features to protect data and in its transmission to users’ computers.

“The secure technology provided to myPay customers meets or exceeds security requirements in private industry worldwide,” said Pat Shine, director DFAS Operations.

The features include items such as 128 bit encryption, firewalls, Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and other measures.

“It is also important that customers do everything they can to protect data from being compromised or captured on their computers, especially when using personal computers at home,” explained Shine.

“Phishing” attacks trick people into parting with personal information by luring them to false corporate Web sites or by requesting personal information be sent in a return e-mail. According to the Federal Trade Commission, “‘Phishers’ send e-mails or pop-up messages claiming to be from a business or organization you would routinely deal with – an Internet service provider, bank, online payment service or even a government agency. The message usually says that you need to ‘update’ or ‘validate’ your account information and might threaten dire consequences if you don’t respond. You are directed to a Web site that mimics a legitimate organization’s site. The purpose of the bogus site is to trick you into divulging personal information so the scam operators can steal your identity and make purchases or commit crimes in your name.”

Whether it be phishing, identity theft, government e-mail scams, credit card offers or electronic commerce fraud there are scammers on the Internet who are very creative and constantly come up with new scams or variations on old scams. The only way to fight this is with knowledge.

Here are several things customers should consider to protect data not only when using myPay , but any electronic commerce activity (e.g. on-line banking, credit card purchases, etc.):

1. Install operating system and application software (e.g. Internet Explorer) updates regularly. Many of these updates are issued to fix security problems which have been identified.

2. Install and use anti-virus software and personal firewalls. Keep this software updated. The correct use of these programs can help protect your system from being compromised by malicious software (e.g. software which can capture information processed on your computer, etc). The DoD Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) makes this type of software available to most DoD employees (check with your agency).

3. Do not store your various User-IDs and passwords in files on your computer. If someone gains access to your computer this is the type of information they look for and would aid them in accessing your account.

4. After using your browser (e.g. Internet Explorer, etc) to access a site where you process sensitive information (e.g. myPay, your bank account, etc.) close all of your browser windows and restart a new browser session. Sometimes the browser can hold that information in memory (e.g. cache, etc) and some Web sites know where to look to find it.

5. Be very careful when installing software that gives others access to your computer. Remote service software or peer-to-peer software used for file sharing can create unintended openings into your computer that outsiders can use if the software is not configured correctly.

6. Don’t e-mail personal or financial information. E-mail is not a secure method of transmitting personal information. If you initiate a transaction and want to provide your personal and financial information through a Web site, look for indicators that the site is secure, such as an image of a lock or lock icon on the browser’s status bar or a Web site address that begins “https:” ( the “s” stands for “secure”).

7. DFAS does not send e-mail messages asking customers to update or validate information. We do send e-mail messages that provide important information about customer’s pay account, but we never ask for customers to send passwords, login names, Social Security numbers, or other personal information through e-mail.

“Maintaining the safety and security of myPay is a top priority”, said Shine. “We proactively implement new security features on a routine basis to protect our customers against identity theft and scams.”

USS Carl Vinson Arrives in Haiti By Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Thompson Special to American Forces Press Service

USS Carl Vinson Arrives in Haiti
By Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Thompson
Special to American Forces Press Service