April 2009

MAGAZINE OF THE U.S. NAVY

Arming the Weapon [On the Front Cover] These combat support Sailors represent just a few of rates found in Naval Special Warfare. These Sailors are called upon [Departments] to use their knowledge in ways not usually found in the fleet. [Number 1105] Being part of NSW allows them to gain experience unique to Around the Fleet — 6 the special warfare community. This Just In — 32 Photo by MCC(SW) Jeremy L. Wood Something to Think About — 36 [Next Month] All Hands takes a look at how Electronic Attack Squadron Focus on Service — 38 132, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash., is preparing to receive the new EA-18G Growlers in August 2009. History— 40 April 12 Living on During the past year, USS Virginia (SSN 774) has been at sea more than 50 percent of the year. The Virginia-class, an upgrade from the Los Angeles class , enhances the Navy’s ability to execute the maritime strategy with technology, and the nimbleness to operate in shallow water. The dedication of the crew has been recognized twice with both the Battle Efficiency “E” and Navigation “N” by 4.

18 Preserving Florida’s Greatest Treasures Northeastern Florida is the third-largest naval region in the (trailing only Norfolk and ). Sailors lucky enough to be stationed here often decide to stick around and retire to this military-friendly area, which is also home to some of the nation’s most beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife and outdoor 24 Special Warfare Support: recreational opportunities. Arming the Weapon If SEALs are the spearhead of naval special warfare, support personnel are the backbone. A SEAL can receive the best combat training in the world, but without critical support elements such as logistics, intelligence, communications and weapon systems, his mission is not nearly as effective.

Photo by MC2(AW) R. Jason Brunson

ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS 1 BM3 Avonta U. Danzie (left) and SR Tanner B. Springer crew a rigid hull inflatable boat while performing preventive maintenance on USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).

Photo by MCSA Robert A. Robbins speaking with sailors Number 1105 • April 2009 Force Master Chief Jeffrey Garrison Commander Submarine Forces Atlantic www.navy.mil

Secretary of the Navy The Honorable Donald C. Winter he Navy core values of honor, team dynamic that Chief of Naval Operations courage and commitment are ensure success for Adm. Gary Roughead our Navy. familiar to every Sailor who wears Chief of Information T People are the Rear Adm. Frank Thorp IV the uniform. But how do we use these most vital elements Director values on a daily basis? What do they Defense Media Activity-Anacostia of a successful Navy. Capt. David E. Werner mean to you? As Sailors, your Chief of Production The Navy Ethos is a tangible expression of these families, your friends, Richard D. Welsh U.S. Navy photo core values and was created using the comments of and your shipmates Chief of Publishing Lt. Cmdr. Leslie Hull-Ryde thousands of active and Reserve Sailors and Navy are the life blood of Assistant Chief of Publishing civilians. The idea is that, regardless of experience, our Navy. Our Ethos Lt. Ligia I. Cohen background or culture, the principles laid out in the belongs to you. Ethos are valued by everyone and support the Navy “Integrity is the foundation of our conduct.” As Editorial core values in the activities we do each day. we grow and develop our future Navy leaders, we will Editor Marie G. Johnston I am proud to say that I see daily examples, continue to stress the need for the moral courage and Assistant Editor/LCPO from the deck plate on up, of Sailors living by the honesty so vital to our day-to-day operations. MCC(AW/SW) Ernest W. Frazier principles of the Navy ethos. And you agree. The results of a Navywide Photo Editor MC1(AW) R. Jason Brunson “A diverse and agile force exemplifying the survey of more than 7,000 participants show that Sailors consider integrity, respect and discipline the Editorial Staff highest standards of service to our nation.” MC2(SW) Elizabeth Vlahos In the submarine force, even the most junior standards that distinguish military members and MC2(SW) William Blake MC2(AW) Jonathan W. Hutto Sr. Sailor receives advanced training on nuclear set the high bar for their performance. MC2(SW/AW) Jhi Scott propulsion and is held to a high standard of When I am on the waterfront, I see submariners MCSN Richard Two Bulls excellence. But are only one part of studying, training, standing watch, and ensuring laY o U t & WEB dEsign the nation’s sea power; we are all “ready guardians that the submarine force is ready to perform any Slice Design + Project Management of peace, victorious in war.” Maintaining high mission at any moment. Though every task is not Richard Rabil, Julie Dorman, standards in training ensures that we carry those glamorous, it is this discipline and preparedness Diana Flores, Tory Hobson standards through to our missions. that gets us through the challenges we face. Printing Universal Printing Company Since each individual brings value to our Navy, Living our lives through the tenets of the Navy GPO Printing Specialist an atmosphere of mutual respect and teamwork Ethos is how we apply the Navy core values of Robert Coates honor, courage and commitment. All Hands (USPS 372-970; ISSN 0002-5577) Number 1101 flourishes. This ultimately means success for not is published monthly by the Defense Media Activity - Anacostia, Production Department, 2713 Mitscher Rd. only the submarine force, but every community Our Navy Ethos is what we want to have on our S.W., Anacostia Annex, D.C. 20373-5819. Periodicals post- age paid at , D.C., and at additional mailing within the Navy. minds every day when we go to work. The way we offices. subscriptions: For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402 or call 202/512-1800. Subscription prices $45 It is in this atmosphere of mutual respect and work together and treat each other determines how (domestic)/$54 (foreign); $7.50 (single copy domestic)/$9 (single copy foreign). Postmaster: Send address changes teamwork that we can find everyday examples of successful we are within our community and as a to All Hands, Defense Media Activity - Anacostia Production Department, 2713 Mitscher Rd., S.W., Anacostia Annex, D.C. 20373-5819 Editorial offices: Send submissions the Navy Ethos at work around the fleet. Navy as a whole. and correspondence to Defense Media Activity - Anacostia Production Department, ATTN: Editor, 2713 Mitscher Each Sailor brings unique life experience and We have a dynamic and ever-changing Navy, Rd., S.W., Anacostia Annex, D.C. 20373-5819 Tel: DSN 288-4171 or 202/433-4171 Fax: DSN 288-4747 or 202/433- culture into their part of the Navy team. The and as we power ahead into the future at flank 4747 E-Mail: [email protected] Message: NAVMEDIACEN WASHINGTON DC //32// authorization: The Secretary of the Navy has determined this character and strength that each person gains from speed, we must remember those values we share publication is necessary in the transaction of business required by law of the Department of the Navy. Funds for their experiences significantly contribute to the and what makes us Sailors. printing this publication have been approved by the Navy Publications and Printing Committee. Handle with Care.

4 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April is Child Abuse Prevention month. For more information visit www.defenselink.mil/fapmip s hipmates around the Fleet Naval Undersea Photo by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos Aug. 17, 2009. Further guidance with secure worldwide Internet, Warfare Center Scientist MCPon Confirms on submitting a board package access to personnel, training and Wins ONR Award Performance as can be found in the NAVADMIN. awards data. Candidates may confirm The ESR replaces the paper Key to staying receipt of board packages by service record as the single field Dr. Gerard Exley, head of the contacting the NPC customer level data entry point for service Undersea Warfare Electromagnetic The Master Chief Petty service center at 1-866-U-ASK- record maintenance. Commands Systems Department at the Naval Officer on the Navy (MCPON) NPC (1-866-827-5672). are required to use all available Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division, Newport, R.I., was recently recently visited Navy Personnel Story by MCC(SW) Maria Yager, ESR functionality. Command where he spoke Navy Personnel Command, Self-service accounts can named the recipient of the 2008 Office with one of the largest chief Millington, Tenn. be created at https://nsips. of Naval Research (ONR) Dr. Arthur E. petty officer communities in nmci.navy.mil or on the Navy Bisson Prize for Naval Technology Achievement. the Navy about senior enlisted Standard Integrated Personnel “The Bisson Prize is presented to an individual to recognize continuation boards. System (NSIPS) ESR server on notable successes in technology achievement, based on a “The response I’ve been board ship. significant direct transitional impact from science and technology receiving has been pretty navy Mandates Commanding officers, to naval operations,” said Capt. Michael Byman, commander, positive. [I know] we’re going Electronic service executive officers and command NUWC Division Newport. to have a few who don’t like record accounts master chiefs can obtain “Throughout his 26-year career with NUWC Division Newport, this idea [but] that’s OK,” said Fleetwide command-level view only Dr. Exley has been recognized as a sound leader and outstanding MCPON(SS/SW) Rick West. access within their UIC(s) by technical professional in his field,” said Byman. “I think the senior enlisted The Chief of Navy Personnel completing the NSIPS/ESR “It’s quite an honor to be associated with someone as continuation board is a very recently released NAVADMIN system authorization request accomplished and revered as Dr. Bisson,” said Exley. “I was very important process for us. It gives 043/09 announcing the and contacting their local NSIPS honored and surprised by the announcement.” us a quality check at the senior requirement for all active- Exley has also served as the Naval Sea Systems ▲ Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick D. West speaks with the Senior Enlisted Academy area manager. enlisted levels.” duty and Reserve personnel to All commands responsible Command’s (NAVSEA) Technical Warrant Holder for Submarine (SEA) class 143 at Naval Station Newport. The SEA focus is to strengthen the senior enlisted commitment to Communications - Unique Systems and Nodes for On-Board According to NAVADMIN professional excellence and mission accomplishment through education. establish and maintain a self- for service record entries are 030/09, performance-based, senior service electronic service record required to initiate updates in systems for the past four years. As a technical authority, NAVSEA enlisted continuation boards call (ESR) account. NSIPS ESR, but official military is accountable for the technical engineering elements of ship for an annual performance-driven necessary. They will help overall out, and for some people there is individual augmentee or in “Having a self-service account personnel file requirements maintenance, modernization, construction, design and safety. review of chiefs, senior chiefs and progression and allow for better a lot of uncertainty. The feedback GWOT Support Assignments, and is necessary for updating remain unchanged. “Dr. Exley has further solidified his status as the master chiefs with more than 20 promotion and advancement I’ve heard is that Sailors who may those with relevant education and emergency contact information. NSIPS ESR is the data entry Navy’s leading expert in submarine communications and years of service and three years time opportunity,” said Personnel be facing these boards would like professional development. Self-service accounts contain point for ESR maintenance. Sailors modernization,” said Byman. in grade. Members not selected for Specialist 1st Class (AW) Millie a little more information about According to the message, other important features, such are responsible for the accuracy Exley has been the driving force behind the modernization continuation after the performance- Woodward, assigned to NPC. the criteria,” said Master Chief Naval Education and Training as enabling Sailors to directly of their ESR and must contact the of submarine communications providing connectivity for e-mail, based review will transfer to the Woodward, who was a recent Information Systems Technician Professional Development and submit PCS (permanent servicing personnel office if any Web browsing, tactical operations and other essential battle Fleet Reserve or retire. NPC Sailor of the Quarter, (SW/AW) Jerita Kearnes, senior Technology Center, Pensacola, change of station) travel claims information is incorrect. force communications. “I think this is absolutely currently has 13 years of active- enlisted advisor for NPC’s enlisted Fla., recently released a list of upon PCS transfer; update For more information read “We have the best submarine communications team awesome, and I wish we would duty service and is in a rating distribution branch. continuation board candidates race, ethnicity and religion NAVADMIN 043/09. in the world doing the work necessary to keep submarine communications responsive to a wide variety of challenges,” have implemented this 10 years that has seen many of its billets Kearnes, who is scheduled to to commands and servicing information; and view all other Story courtesy of Navy Personnel ago. Some of our senior Sailors civilianized. “Even when I do retire after 30 years of service, is personnel support detachments. ESR service record information,” Command, Millington, Tenn. said Exley. “This honor truly reflects a tremendous team effort in have quit. They have lost the make chief, without these boards exempt from the board. Each candidate is responsible said Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson, this field of engineering.” energy and drive, and we need and Sailors retiring, there is While the NAVADMIN does for ensuring their record is . Story courtesy of Naval Undersea to keep our Navy strong,” said little hope for much upward not specify what constitutes correct and up-to-date with their The requirement date for Warfare Center Division Newport, R.I. Command Master Chief (SW/ mobility,” she added. performance, the senior enlisted latest evaluations, awards and Sailors serving at sea and AW) Billy Hill, assigned to NPC To date, NPC’s active-duty continuation board precept will other appropriate information. without connectivity to establish limited Paper- as CMC detailer. continuation board coordinator outline that information. Candidates may communicate an ESR is 60 days upon return to based test afloat in NAVADMIN 029/09. and includes 53 exams testing “Our Navy is vacancy driven, has received more than 70 Officer continuation board with the continuation board by homeport. available “This is good for the Navy the arts, sciences, business, and if there is a hard-charging first calls from the fleet seeking precepts instruct board members submitting a board package. The Navy first implemented because it allows Sailors to education and nursing areas.” class out there ready to step up, we more details on the two most to consider performance as Selection board packages provide ESRs in 2006. The ESR provides Paper-based Excelsior College maintain their educational In March 2008, DANTES need to give them the opportunity. common subjects - criteria and well as adverse information. candidates the opportunity to individual Sailors, personnel and ACT exams may now be progress while they serve afloat,” suspended paper-based testing We cannot promote them if eligibility. Those topics have been Candidates need proven and submit any missing documents support activity detachments administered afloat on ships said Ann Hunter, the Navy’s for college-level examination we have senior enlisted people prominent in discussions among sustained performance with from the sections of their (PSD), personnel offices designated as Defense Activity voluntary education service programs across the Navy due to standing in the way,” added Hill. chiefs in general, too. favorable consideration given records that are viewed by the holding service records, Navy for Non-Traditional Education chief. “The Excelsior College a loss of control of paper-based “I feel senior enlisted “There has been a lot of talk to those who displayed superior continuation boards. Packages operational support centers and (DANTES) testing sites under and ACT exams are accepted exams aboard several Navy continuation boards are about it since the message came performance while serving an must be post marked no later than customer commands of PSDs new policy guidelines announced by many academic institutions, ships. DANTES testing facilities

6 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil ApriL 2009 • ALL HANDS 7 ▲ ▲

▼ HM3 Class Ricardo Perez, assigned to USS Boxer (LHD 4), around the Fleet says goodbye to his son before boarding the ship to leave San Diego. Boxer departed for a scheduled western Pacific Continued from page 8 deployment to provide global maritime security. resumed the administration of your qualifications done and paper-based exams on shore move forward, and you know AW1 Patrick Frizzelle, assigned to Helicopter installations only in May 2008. what? You’re going to be okay,” Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5, communicates with pilots aboard an HH-60H Sea Hawk Ships with full-time education said Master Chief Petty Officer helicopter as USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN service officers may request of the Navy (MCPON) (SS/SW) 69) departs Naval Station Norfolk. authority to stand up a DANTES Rick West during a recent visit testing site. Requests to stand up with force stabilization policy a DANTES testing site will be makers at NPC. forwarded to OPNAV N15 via The Web page, which had the immediate superior in charge. nearly 5,000 page views in the If the ship’s request is approved, first two days, was added to OPNAV N15 will review and the NPC Web site to provide submit a complete nomination references, answer frequently package to DANTES. asked questions, and offer a DANTES-sponsored tests fact sheet and links to more are controlled items and require information to guide Sailors. secure storage and handling. “We had a lot of questions Commanding officers are from Sailors about continuation responsible for the management boards, zone B PTS (perform Photo by MC3 Matthew Bookwalter and oversight of the DANTES- to serve), and SRBs (selective ▲ Lt. Joseph Nencka, the dental officer aboard USS Nashville (LPD 13), reviews sponsored testing programs re-enlistment bonus),” said dental X-rays while examining a patient while deployed for Africa Partnership aboard their ships and should Command Master Chief (AW/ Station 2009. refer to the NAVADMIN for SW) Kenny Ellenburg, a briefer security guidance. for NPC’s Career Management ▼ SN Christopher Smith, from Washington, D.C., assigned to Beachmaster Unit 1, For more information on Symposium team which visits Det. Western Pacific, directs Landing Craft Air Cushion 63, assigned to Assault Craft DANTES testing and Navy commands throughout the fleet Unit 5, as it transports Marines and equipment ashore for Cobra Gold 2009, in College visit www.navycollege. providing information on the Sattahip Thailand. Cobra Gold is an annual Kingdom of Thailand and United States navy.mil. latest Navy personnel policies.

Photo by MC2 Kenneth R. Hendrix co-sponsored military exercise designed to train U.S. and partner Asian-Pacific forces. To review NAVADMIN Ellenburg and his team spoke 029/09, visit www.npc.navy.mil. to Japan-based Sailors at Fleet Story by Lt.j.g. Richlyn Neal, Chief of Activities Yokosuka, Naval Air Naval Personnel, Washington, D.C. Facility Misawa, Fleet Activities Okinawa and Naval Air Facility

Photo by MC2 Jon Rasmussen Atsugi soon after several force stabilization Navy messages were released. nPC adds Force “A lot of chiefs wanted to stabilization Page know what the senior enlisted To be considered for the “Around the Fleet” section, to Web site continuation boards would be forward your high resolution (5” x 7” at 300 dpi) images looking at,” said Ellenberg. More with full credit and cutline information, including full name, Navy Personnel Command details are on the way and will be rank and duty station to: (NPC) added a force stabilization added to the force stabilization [email protected] fact sheet to its Web site to Web site as they become available provide the fleet more information as Navy officials finalize details Directions on how to properly submit photos can be found at about how new personnel policies before the September board. www.navy.mil/photo_submit.html may affect them. “Similar to an advancement Those interested can review it board, continuation board panel Mail your submissions to: at force stabilizations measures members will review both the Navy Visual News Service visit www.npc.navy.mil. candidate’s official record and 1200 Navy Pentagon, Rm. 4B514 “If deckplate Sailors are out submitted materials. As Washington, D.C. 20350-1200 there working hard every day, in advancements, the single that is what they need to focus most important factor Click on the Navy’s home page, www.navy.mil, for on. Continue to work hard and influencing selection for fresh images of your shipmates in action. perform at the highest level. Get continuation is sustained Photo by MC2 Gabriel S. Weber Continued on page 11

8 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil ApriL 2009 • ALL HANDS 9 around the Fleet Continued from page 9

superior performance of duty,” program, many of our service said Cmdr. Stuart Satterwhite members are able to focus on ▼ Sailors participate in a Damage Control Olympics event aboard assigned to Navy Personnel their day-to-day jobs, and take USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) in the Persian Gulf. The timed event, called Command’s policy division. comfort in knowing that their “Find Your Missing Shipmate,” sent fire teams and stretcher bearers Satterwhite is helping to exceptional family members will into Iwo Jima’s dark and smoky upper vehicle storage where Sailors draft the senior enlisted be taken care of.” had to locate and rescue an “injured” shipmate. continuation board precept The forum’s keynote speaker which will be reviewed by senior was Karen Gaffney of the Karen leaders before approval. Gaffney Foundation, a nonprofit “A board precept is currently organization dedicated to being drafted and will be vetted championing the journey to full through those who normally inclusion in families, schools, provide input to board precepts, communities and the workplace including MCPON. Details of for people with Down syndrome the precept cannot be released, and other developmental however, once the precept is disabilities. Additionally, several complete, general information will workshops were held to cover be forthcoming,” said Satterwhite. more specific issues such as For further updates on force autism, estate planning and stabilizations measures visit canine companions. www.npc.navy.mil. “The types of workshops Story by MCC (SW) Maria Yager, that we put on are really to Navy Personnel Command, encourage parents to build Millington, Tenn. strong relationships and a bond with their children,” said Eva Granville, EFMP coordinator, Fort Monroe, Va. “They should also build a bond with the Joint service caregivers and teachers, as well Exceptional Family

Photo by MC3 Walter M. Wayman as the medical professionals. Member Forum The parents are their child’s best ▲ SN Sean Flaherty, from Philadelphia, stands aft Provides assistance advocate; they know what is best port lookout watch aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN for their child.” 74) as USS Kidd (DDG 100) (front) and USS Preble (DDG The Joint Services Exceptional Service members with 88) steam ahead of USS Antietam (CG 54) during a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. Family Member Program (EFMP) exceptional family members are Committee of Hampton Roads encouraged to contact the Fleet recently held its 12th annual and Family Support Center at

Photo by MC3 Bryant A. Kurowski Joint Services Exceptional Family their installation to learn more Member Forum and Resource about the EFMP and enrollment Expo in Newport News, Va. procedures. ◀ from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion The goal of the expo was to (NMCB) 5, Port Hueneme, Calif., practice various rope Story by MC3 Coleman Thompson, rescue techniques during a training evolution held by bring together families, EFMP Navy Public Affairs Support Element- the 31st Readiness Group. NMCB 5 is currently coordinators, medical staff East. preparing for their upcoming deployment to the Central personnel, and professionals Command area of responsibility. working in the field of special needs to provide service members and their families information, ▶ YN2 Akaiya Miller, from Claxton, Ga., plays resources and assistance. basketball with Japanese children from the Omura Kodomo Children’s Home at a pool party during a “I think the EFMP is community relations project. Volunteers from Fleet phenomenal,” said Fort Monroe Activities Sasebo, Japan, hosted 45 children at the base Garrison Commander Army for a picnic and games at the base swimming pool. Col. Anthony D. Reyes. “Service members need to know that they have that kind of resource available to them. Because of that Photo by MC2 Joshua J. Wahl Photo by EO3 Danielle T. Fisher

10 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil ApriL 2009 • ALL HANDS 11 day after supervising the loading of eight war shot torpedoes for an underway Living on training cycle, Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (SS) Steven Hurt walked the narrow A passages of USS Virginia (SSN 774). As he conducted his daily duties, he took a moment to reflect on the path that brought him to become the Sailor of the year aboard the very same submarine he helped build and test as a civilian.

VirginiaStory and photos by MC2(AW) Jonathan W. Hutto Sr.

Sailors aboard USS Virginia (SSN 774) bring necessary supplies aboard for a six-week underway. With the exception of the captain and executive officer, everyone in the command helps bring supplies aboard.

12 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS LIVING oN VIRGINIA 13 First in Her Class Six years ago, Hurt worked as a test Once Hurt secured the endorsement of the Battle Efficiency and Navigation “N” by service engineer for the Electric Boat command, he then talked with a detailer to . USS Virginia was the first Division of . He was part assure his assignment aboard Virginia pending “Being awarded the Battle E is a great honor of her namesake class to be of the team that tested all the systems of the completion of the reentry process for prior for us,” said Cmdr. Jim Waters, Virginia’s launched on Aug 16, 2003. She future USS Virginia before commissioning, active service members. commanding officer. “Our focus was putting and he worked in the space that now Hurt serves as the leading petty officer Virginia through the necessary trials and is homeported in Groton, Conn. houses Virginia’s torpedoes. for the weapons department, encompassing testing to really prove to the country the Navy A husband and father, Hurt had all the weapons launching systems. He is got its money’s worth for this submarine.” Builder: General Dynamics Electric previously served 10 years active duty as a currently engaged in preparing his team The Virginia-class enhances the Navy’s Boat Division and Northrop Grumman submariner and then became a civilian in for the Operational Reactor Safeguard ability to execute the maritime strategy with Shipbuilding - Newport News the Navy Reserve while he completed his Examination (ORSE) and the Tactical technological enhancements, and the ability second bachelor’s degree. Despite what Readiness Evaluation (TRE) during to operate in shallow water. The mission areas Commissioned: Oct. 23, 2004 many would consider a comfortable life, their upcoming six-week underway. The of the Virginia-class submarine include: anti- Hurt felt he was missing something vital. ORSE and TRE evaluations will assess the submarine warfare; anti-surface strike warfare; Propulsion: One nuclear reactor, one shaft “I missed the camaraderie and submarine’s reactor along with its capacity to special operations; intelligence, surveillance friendship of the guys I worked with combat casualties and fight the ship. and reconnaissance; irregular warfare; strike Length: 377 feet (114.8 meters) for years,” said Hurt. “I liked my job at “The ORSE and TRE evaluations are group support and mine warfare. Beam: 34 feet (10.4 meters) Electric Boat, but it did not give me the the big prize fights for the engineering and “The Virginia-class submarine can go same feeling of being on a submarine. weapons departments,” said Hurt. “During the anywhere in the world, in both deep and Displacement: Approximately 7,800 tons Being a submariner is a way of life, and examination, we’ll be able to simulate weapons shallow water, with the ability to project power (7,925 metric tons) submerged you must be immersed in it. You can’t ensuring our capacity to fight the ship.” ashore with cruise missiles from do it part time.” Damage control is an essential aspect of unexpected places,” said Waters. “TheVirginia Speed: 25+ knots (28+ miles per hour, Hurt first discussed with his wife the life for a submariner. With roughly 130 total class is the most advanced and stealthiest in 46.3+ kph) possibility of going back on active duty. personnel on board, everyone is a fireman our arsenal.” With his wife’s blessing, he began a with the responsibility to combat casualties. Unlike older classes of submarines, the Crew: 134: 14 Officers; 120 Enlisted conversation with Virginia’s command “As submariners, this is our home, and Virginia-class submarine can operate in less leadership to seek a potential assignment. we’re going to protect it from fire and than 200 feet of water, enhancing forward Armament: Tomahawk missiles, 12 VLS His brother-in-law, MMC(SS) Christopher flooding,” said Hurt. “Damage control presence and the Navy’s capacity to protect Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jim Waters addresses the entire crew of USS Virginia (SNN 774) before getting tubes, MK-48 ADCAP torpedoes, four Frank, and MMCS(SS) Kenneth Caswell, a encompasses the entire submarine.” its surface ships. underway. Virginia was awarded the Battle E designation tubes mentor from his prior active service, were During the past year, Virginia has “The future of submarine warfare will take from Squadron 4 and was the first of her class to shoot instrumental in navigating the command been out to sea for more than 50 percent place in shallow water,” said MMCM(SS) Todd Tomahawk cruise missiles. The ship also received the Battle “N” for superior excellence in navigation. Ships: leadership to support his coming back to of the year. The dedication of the crew Schultz, Virginia’s command master chief. USS Texas (SSN 775), Groton, Conn. active duty aboard Virginia. has been recognized twice with both the “Our enhanced capacity ensures we can protect USS (SSN 776), Groton, Conn. our surface ships when they are engaged in USS North Carolina (SSN 777), Groton, Conn. evolutions such as humanitarian assistance. USS New Hampshire (SSN 778), We are [at] the pointed edge of the sword.” Groton, Conn. New Mexico (SSN 779), Christened Dec. 13, 2008 ◀ MM1(SS) Steven Hurt explains his job Missouri (SSN 780), Keel Laid Sept. 27 2008 as the leading petty officer of the weapons California (SSN 781), Construction began department. Hurt worked as a civilian with January 2006 Electric Boat Company to build USS Virginia. Hurt was recently selected Sailor of the Year Mississippi (SSN 782), Construction began for the second year in a row. December 2006 Minnesota (SSN 783), Construction began ▶ USS Virginia (SSN 774) has one of the February 2008 most advanced torpedo delivery systems in North Dakota (SSN 784), – Ship named the fleet. In addition to torpedoes, Virginia is armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles and July 15, 2008

has been designed to host the Advanced Photo by MCC James Pinsky John Warner (SSN 785), Ship named SEAL Delivery System (ASDS) and dry-deck shelter to support various missions. Jan. 8, 2009

14 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS LIVING oN VIRGINIA 15 USS Virginia (SSN 774) departs Groton, Conn., for a six-week underway. During this deployment, Virginia will undergo an Operational Reactor Safeguard Examination Along with deterrence, humanitarian [sight] multiple targets at one time. The forward “The technicians, fire controlmen and the submarine. Today, that information is (OARS) and a Tactical Readiness Evaluation (TRE) to assistance, power projection and forward presence comes from our littoral operations and cooks all engage their jobs everyday. When we gathered with high resolution cameras. assess the submarine’s reactor along with its capacity to presence Virginia supports the maritime strategy being able to launch Mark 48 torpedoes and engage our jobs, bad guys get hurt,” said Hurt. “At periscope depth our enhanced combat casualties through damage control. aspects of maritime security and sea control. Tomahawks from a stealth position.” photonics give us the ability, day and night, “We contributed to maritime security And Hurt plays an important role in to go anywhere and see everything within through our support to counter illicit trafficking ensuring that, when tasked, that mission will be Technological Revolution our reach,” said Waters. operations in the U.S. Southern Command executed successfully. In his shop, this means Executive Officer Lt. Cmdr. West Brigham, Sonar Technician 3rd Class (SS) Jerry D. area of focus,” said Schultz. “We maintain constantly training his team simulating strikes who has served on the last three classes of Mathurin uses the enhanced technology sea control by being able to track, range and using the Tomahawk Missile System (VLS). submarines during his 13-year career, has to ensure there are no potential objects or witnessed Virginia’s enhancements firsthand. threats in the water. “My first submarine was USSHawkbill “My job is to search the area for potential (SSN 666), commissioned in 1971, which was collision threats such as oil tankers,” said the latest and greatest of ‘60s technology,” Mathurin. “We track potential threats by said Brigham. “My next submarine was a taking soundings in the water, convert it to Los Angeles-class, which was a quantum leap digital and view it on a touch screen. On in terms of sonar upgrades. Virginia-class screen, we’re able to listen and look through [submarines] are a greater leap from Los everything in the water to ensure the ship Angeles-class, giving us the ability to obtain will not be restricted.” the entire picture before us by simply looking Completing the mission aboard a from left to right.” submarine is an all-hands evolution. Unlike The executive officer is able to see the total larger commands where rank determines picture because of the more than 50 touch responsibility, tasks such as bringing food screens located throughout the submarine. on board the submarine for an underway These touch screens integrate sonar, radar becomes everyone’s responsibility. Photo by MCC James Pinsky and fire control giving the officer of the “We don’t have the luxury of always deck, and those with a need to know, instant delegating tasks based on rank,” said Ensign ▲ Virginia’s Submarine Escape Immersion ▲ Virginia’s advanced infra-red function knowledge on where the submarine is located Brian Higgins, Virginia’s supply officer. “Often Equipment is designed to facilitate safe on the photonics gather information about and what’s out there – a clear upgrade from times it can be a daily occurrence witnessing develop is one of the greatest joys of my life.” toward maintaining morale and good order escapes from as deep as 600 feet. the terrain with high-resolution cameras. plotting navigation by hand. Virginia was chiefs help junior Sailors load boxes aboard Yeoman 3rd Class Nathan Parrus is one and discipline. the first sub to shift from paper to electronic the submarine.” of those “small-town” Sailors from Fort “The professionalism and pride on board navigation. Instead of approving paper charts, Smith, Ark. is stellar,” said Brigham. Sailors aboard USS Virginia (SSN 774) the commanding officer currently approves “Fort Smith was sort of sluggish, and I For Waters, the most meaningful aspect stand by to cast off lines from the pier. A Their Brother’s Keeper tug is stationed alongside to assist when navigation charts on his laptop. was looking for opportunity when I joined of his job is the day-to-day interactions with Virginia moves away from the pier. “The most significant enhancement for us Due to the small number of the crew, tighter the Navy,” said Parrus. “Although it can be the crew and witnessing their joy when they was the progression from conventional to relationships and bonds are forged regardless rocky when you first come in, you end up accomplish a huge undertaking. electronic navigation,” said Navigation Officer, of rank and time in service. building relationships with folks from all “Watching the crew come together, do a Lt. Gregory Koepp. “It is much more like a family serving on a walks of life.” job and do it well is incredibly satisfying,” Waters has also witnessed the improvements submarine,” said Waters. “I know every crew Mathurin, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., is an said Waters. “The look on those Sailors’ faces of a Virginia-class sub as he also served on Los member’s name, their job and can probably advocate of everyone being their brother’s when they accomplish an incredibly hard Angeles- and Sturgeon-class submarines. tell you what they like to do in their off time.” keeper. Submariners do not receive regular task always motivates me during the most “Both the Trident and 688-class Hurt believes coming from small towns helps mail and e-mail while deployed challenging periods.” submarines are capable and still meet the his Sailors build the long-lasting relationships “There’s not a lot of space to work around Hurt is living the time of his life aboard necessary mission,” said Waters. “However, that are essential to mission accomplishment. on a submarine,” said Mathurin. “We don’t USS Virginia. the Virginia class is an incredible leap “The average age of a crew member is interact much with the outside world during “The most rewarding job you can have forward. This is the StarshipEnterprise !” 20 years old,” said Hurt. “Although these operations, so all we have is each other. It’s a is being a submariner,” said Hurt. “We’re a The Virginia-class is also an enhancement guys are young, they apply themselves very must for all of us to get along. Our motto is rare breed. There are more millionaires in in the field of photonics. Sailors in past classes quickly to become a self-sustained unit. ‘I watch your back, and you watch mine.’” the world than us, so that makes us elite.” of submarines used a long tube in the control They first come to the command with their Brigham believes the smaller crew and Hutto is assigned to Defense Media Activity- room with mirrors to assess the terrain beyond heads like sponges. Watching them grow and tighter bonds yield more effectiveness Anacostia, Washington, D.C.

16 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS LIVING oNoN VIRGINIA 17 The beautiful beaches of North Florida are among the region's greatest natural treasures.

Florida’s Greatest Treasures

Story and photos by MC2(SW/AW) Jason McCammack

he sun-drenched state of Florida is one of America’s greatest natural treasures. Tourists flock to our southeastern-most state for its perfect is located just outside the city’s business district, and employs more than 23,000 Tmix of warm weather and unmatched beauty. civilian and active-duty personnel. Sailors lucky enough to be stationed here often PreservingNortheastern Florida is the third-largest naval region in the United States (trailing decide to stick around and retire in this military-friendly area, which is also home only Norfolk and San Diego). The harbor, at nearby Naval Station (NAVSTA) Mayport, to some of the nation’s most beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife and outdoor can provide a home for more than 30 ships. Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville recreational opportunities.

18 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS PRESERVING FLORIDA'S GREATEST TREASURES 19 “Our game warden created a successful The base is also populated by gopher turtles NAVSTA Mayport Wildlife Officer Arthur volunteer program for sea turtle protection so and river otters. But it is two more fearsome Burt walks the crossovers that were built to protect the dunes from heavy traffic. that on-base residents and tenants can learn creatures that capture most of the base about the threatened loggerhead turtles, which personnel’s attention. have experienced large increases in nesting and Visitors to NAVSTA Mayport’s Lake hatching rates during the last several years,” Wonderwood often come to look for the said Cheryl Mitchell, NAVSTA Mayport’s two alligators who make their home there, environmental director. and many long-time legends surround the Maintaining the base’s beaches is another “possible” existence of a Florida panther. top priority for Mayport’s Environment Many at Mayport believe the “Big Cat’s” Office staff. The team works with volunteers presence is nothing but myth. According to from housing, tenant commands and Burt, the panther is very real and has been nongovernmental organizations to conduct prowling the base grounds, going largely shoreline cleanups. They also built six dune unnoticed, for years. crosswalks to protect the areas from being “He works the berm area,” Burt said. “He’s trampled by beachgoers. been there for more than two years. We’re “We broadened our research into alternative putting up some signage about the panther funding programs, like the Agricultural because he’s beginning to cross the highway Outlease program, to obtain funding for into a park which is city property.” NAS Jacksonville recycling projects like the dune crosswalks that were Mayport is also home to some very drop-offs are used by completed last year,” said Mitchell. “This large birds. thousands of base residents. included the educational signs that will be “We have osprey nesting sites,” said Burt. posted on those walks this year. Mayport is “We put up some poles for the osprey to take fortunate to have so many natural areas – over in the wetlands, and they have [begun The wildlife of Mayport Fay took five of our 11 sites at the naval turtles is a top priority. The turtles use light more than half the installation’s acreage is using them]. We have an eagle’s nest site, who has worked at NAVSTA Mayport in station,” Burt said. clues to find their way to nesting sites and, wetlands, river shoreline and beach front.” which is active each year between November various roles since 1958. EN2 Kpaku Palay (left) NAVSTA Mayport is home to some of Support for the turtles goes all the way to later, back to the ocean. Artificial lights can “Ourand residents, EM2(SW) Sailors Eric Mend and civilians work and January.” “It’s my baby,” he added. Florida’s most pristine white-sand beaches. the top of the base’s chain-of-command. disorient the turtles and lead them in the hard assignedto protect to and Boat enhance Division these areas; “NAVSTA Mayport has performed in a Each year, endangered sea turtles return “The commanding officer of Naval Station wrong direction. Base residents are encouraged and in56, an serve era of as shrinking aft lookouts budgets, we all true ‘team effort’ in executing our stewardship during a simulated escort Jacksonville: Action to these beaches to nest, and the men Mayport and his wife Debbie are two of our to close all house curtains that face toward the have ofbecome a high-value a lot more asset creative in how we program. The evidence of our success is on every front and women of NAVSTA Mayport are their state-certified volunteers,” said Burt. beach after sunset, and the base Navy Lodge implementtransiting our San natural Diego resources Bay. stewardship seen every day in the natural beauty of our earnest guardians. Educating the base population about sea and bachelor housing does the same. program,” Mitchell added. installation,” said the proud wildlife officer, NAS Jacksonville features a basewide “Naval Station Mayport has at least 10 recycling program that is a prime example threatened or endangered species on base, of the regional commitment to safeguarding 20 percent of the base is protected wetlands Florida’s natural wonders. … and we have sea turtle nesting areas NAS Jacksonville began their recycling along 1.2 miles of beach,” said Arthur Burt, program in 1989 and 20 years later the NAVSTA Mayport wildlife officer. program continues to expand and flourish. “We have to find every sea turtle nest “We normally receive recyclables from site that’s on the station. We put screening our main base command, tenant commands all the way around each nest site, and we and everybody who lives in base housing,” also put some mesh material on the top to said Storekeeper 1st Class Victor DeLeon, keep predators out. We normally have a 100 NAS Jacksonville recycling leading petty percent hatch rate that makes it to the ocean officer. “After they’re received, we process from our sea turtle nest sites – with the them and separate plastics, paper products, exception being last year because Hurricane metals and glass. Next, we compact and bale

◀ Sailors from NAS Jacksonville's recycling ▶ NAVSTA Mayport wildlife officer, Arthur center shovel cardboard into a mechanical Burt, directs his team as they attempt to compactor. In 2007, the center recycled more

save a beached manatee. U.S. Navy photo than 10,000 tons of material.

20 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS PRESERVING FLORIDA'S GREATEST TREASURES 21 “The design is to go to zero discharge of matter what your rating, when you come to untreated wastewater [into the St. John’s the spill-response team you’ve got to be on top River]. We want to reuse [the wastewater] of your game.” for irrigation of our golf courses and ball Washington said the dedication of his team fields,” said Chief Boatswain Mate (SW) is the reason the spill response team at NAS Darrell Washington, NAS Jacksonville spill Jacksonville is so good. response officer. “For a small crew, I am unbelievably The team at the NAS Jacksonville Boathouse fortunate to have the team I have. It’s a superb is constantly drilling to minimize any damage group. Whatever I ask of them, they go out Sailors from Naval Station from fuel spills into the St. John’s. and get it done. It’s a dream job for a chief Mayport's spill response team set up a barrier during “Our job is to respond to any spill and assist when you have the quality of Sailors that we a spill response drill. the environmental office in any way possible,” have here. Day-in and day-out, nine or 10 Washington said. hours a day, these guys are just the best.” Sailors assigned to the boathouse come from a In both Jacksonville and Mayport, protecting number of different ratings, but the expectation the region’s greatest natural resources comes is that each individual Sailor will have a naturally to the men and women lucky enough comprehensive knowledge of spill-response to be stationed in North Florida. techniques. There are five enginemen, four “It’s very important that we have a strong boatswain’s mates and two electricians, but by environmental program,” said Scorby. “It’s the end of their six-week personal qualifications good for the Navy, it’s good for the community training, each Sailor is equipped to do each job and it’s just the right thing to do. I’m committed at the boathouse. to ensuring that we remain good stewards “Boatswain’s mates are required to learn within the Jacksonville community and having ▲ At NAS Jacksonville's HAZMAT center the the products. Then we load up a big truck, disaster response. Frequent drills maintain Center leading petty officer. “We make sure the engineman’s job – to work on engines and a strong environmental program team properly disposes of HAZMAT containers. and when it’s full, it’s delivered to a civilian the team’s skills. that the commands on base get the right electrical stuff,” said Washington. “Electricians is key to that success.” Strict guidelines are followed to ensure the safety of Sailors and the environment. contractor and we receive funds for the “We had a mass casualty drill yesterday, and HAZMAT – the stuff they are authorized to are required to know how to do an engine- McCammack is a photojournalist formerly amount of product we provide.” part of that drill involved a simulated spill of use – and we make sure that each item stays man’s job. It’s all cross-training here, and it’s assigned to Defense Media Activity-Anacostia, Washington, D.C. According to Capt. Jack Scorby, NAS a fuel tank,” said Scorby. “We had our first- within regulations.” very important to the way we do business. No Jacksonville’s commanding officer, “In fiscal responders, and they were able to work on what Correctly managing HAZMAT is also a year 2007 we recycled more than 10,000 tons they would do in the event that something like priority for each of the commands that call of material, which includes glass, metal, paper, this did happen. It’s about getting out there NAS Jacksonville home. cardboard and plastic. That also saved us quickly, and putting up barriers to prevent “We have to ensure that our personnel more than $250,000 in disposal costs alone. leakage to the river or any area where it could know how to store each of these HAZMAT But the real reason we recycle is because it’s seep into the ground. One of the first calls we products safely,” said AD1 Rick Poland, the right thing to do for the environment.” make for any kind of emergency is to the [NAS Helicopter Squadron Light (HSL) HAZMAT Because they have so much to protect, Jacksonville] Environmental Department. coordinator. “We also ensure that each the Jacksonville community and its citizens They’ll get teams out instantly to make sure product is returned to our secure HAZMAT expect the Navy to take a leadership role in we’re taking care of the environment.” facilities and that we dispose of it properly. The environmental efforts according to Scorby. NAS Jacksonville also looks after the first priority is the safety of our Sailors and the “[Environmental stewardship] is very environment by ensuring strict guidelines are environment is a close second. If we train our important to the Jacksonville community and followed on hazardous material (HAZMAT) people how to [properly] handle, return and it’s also part of the maritime strategy. It’s very distribution and disposal. The Hazardous dispose [of HAZMAT], the environment falls much a priority for the warfighters here at NAS Material Center on base is the one-stop source right in place.” Jacksonville. We’re definitely committed to the for all HAZMAT needs for every command NAS Jacksonville sits alongside the beautiful NAS Jacksonville Sailors contain a environment. The city knows it, and we’re on located on the base and is the disposal center St. John’s River and one of the top priorities simulated HAZMAT spill. Continuous a variety of their boards to ensure that we’re for empty HAZMAT containers. for the base environmental office is protecting drills ensure that Sailors are at the top of their game when it’s time to following proper procedures at all times.” “We have about 600 HAZMAT line items,” the river from fuel spillage and eliminating the respond to a real spill. Another important piece of the said Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class very small amount of untreated wastewater installation’s environmental program is Randy Wade, NAS Jacksonville HAZMAT that goes into the St. John’s.

22 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil APRIL 2009 • ALL HANDS PRESERVING FLORIDA'S GREATEST TREASURES 23 Story by MC2(SW) Elizabeth Vlahos, photos by MC1(AW) R. Jason Brunson

t’s easy to think about a Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) Icombatant whenever you hear the words “special warfare.” These seasoned, fearless warriors are trained to slip under the radar into a specific locale to destroy the enemy and get out. SEALs are the maritime strategy at its most basic and primal level.

Special Warfare Support: Arming the Weapon GM1(SW) Travis Haislip demonstrates how to reassemble an MK-48 machine gun at the Logistic Support Unit 1 armory. 24 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS SpeciAL WArfAre Support 25 The truth about Naval Special Warfare A SEAL can receive the best combat training which 40 percent are operators, many of the (NSW) personnel, however, may surprise in the world, but without critical support combat support Sailors are assigned from A Responsibility many – One of the elements most critical to elements such as logistics, intelligence, logistics support units, support activities or of the Utmost the success of NSW does not wear the trident communications and weapon systems, his group staff. They can vary from gunner’s mates Importance rightly associated with the SEALs. mission is not nearly as effective. and master-at-arms, to hospital corpsmen, Look at it this way: Try throwing a intelligence specialists, information systems The absence of a SEAL trident spearhead by itself. It probably won’t do An Assignment like No Other technicians and operation specialists. on the support personnel in no much. Next, provide means of propulsion and Capt. Thomas L. Brown II, commodore, way detracts from the guidance, and then throw it. Now, you’ll inflict Roughly 60 percent of NSW personnel take Naval Special Warfare Group 1, disagrees importance of their roles. Since some damage … with range. on combat support (CS) and combat service with the terms “tech” and “enabler” when the SEALs are immersed in If SEALs are the spearhead of naval special support (CSS) roles. In a typical deployed describing support staff. keeping their highly specialized warfare, support personnel are the backbone. NSW squadron of roughly 300 personnel, of “I think it does a disservice to their training up-to-date, it’s up to contributions,” said Brown. “The use of the the support staff to make sure words ‘tech’ and ‘enabler’ clouded our ability the Humvees are running, the to plan the numbers of [certain] specialties we weapons are in good working needed to be functional on the battlefield.” order and ready to put rounds Brown explained that SEALs focus on down range, the lines of maintaining their highly specialized combatant communication are open, and skills, the expertise of the combat support the intelligence is updated and combat services Sailors is essential to the and relevant. warfighters’ tool kit. Construction Mechanic 2nd “If you start looking at all the tasks we load Class (EXW) Joey Johnson, from Logistics the personal growth being a member of ▲ CM2(SCW) David Privett (left), tightens a on a SEAL – weapons, diving, parachuting, Support Unit (LOGSU) 1’s Combat Service NSW … you can’t beat that. It’s a lifetime suspension mount on a new Humvee, prior to issuing it to the motor pool. The Seabees work language, regional expertise – we can’t Support Detachment (CSSD), maintains the experience that you’ll remember,” said in concert with government contractors at Naval also train him to run a network system, fix Humvees for the SEALs in support of their Storekeeper 2nd Class (SW/AW) Gener Amphibious Base Coronado, Calif., allowing them guns, order spare parts or repair motors [as training missions. The magnitude of this Paraon, assigned to LOGSU-1’s supply to learn skills not normally available in the fleet. efficiently],” Brown explained. responsibility remains at the front of his mind department. constantly. For Chief Gunner’s Mate (EXW/SW) ◀ CM2(SCW) Juan Dobles (left) “If those trucks aren’t running, those boys Nick Peters, getting the right weapon to and other Navy Seabees from aren’t going out,” said Johnson. “If that truck the right person at the right time is of the Logistics Support Unit 1, inspect Ramping Up to Ship Out the undercarriage of new Humvee, breaks, it’s my fault and they want to know utmost importance. prior to issuing it to the motor pool. why. You are held accountable – they don’t “We support their training in the logistics The typical deployment schedule for NSW play around.” sense,” said Peters, the leading chief petty support staff consists of six months, with the ▼ CM2(SCW) David Privett takes a break from working on a new Humvee. Seabees are also responsible for the officer for the LOGSU-1 armory. following 10 to 12 months back ashore. But, establishment of camps and command posts, Along with the routine ammunition this can vary from Sailor to Sailor. while on deployment. issuances and weapons inventories, Peters “When we get back, we have 10 months at “We support the SEAL teams in logistics – emphasized the need for agility and home,” Agnew explained. “But, some guys embarkation, expeditionary camp set-ups,” proficiency, due to the high tempo of like to turn around and do [a] back-to-back said Construction Electrician 1st Class (EXW/ SEAL training. deployment right away.” SCW) Chance Agnew, leading petty officer for “If a weapon goes down during a block of The time between deployments provides no LOGSU-1 CSSD. “When a SEAL team gets training, the SEAL operator, who is tactically leisure period – NSW personnel are sent to ready to deploy, we actually go [on temporarily proficient, is probably not going to be different schools to hone their existing skills assigned duty] three months prior to the unit capable of performing [nor will have the time and to acquire new skills vital to the mission. deploying. Once we get into theater, we break to complete] the technical repairs. They can’t “There’s a saying within the teams that it up and put Seabees into every location the just stop the clock and secure from training; amateurs do it until they get it right, [but] squadron is going to be maintaining.” [a weapons technician] needs to be on site to professionals do it until they never get it Some Sailors have found working for NSW provide immediate technical support wrong,” said Peters. “That’s one of the mottos to be different but rewarding. [to] either get the weapon back on line or they live by, [to] train so they can execute

Photo by MC1(AW) Jason Brunson “It’s a whole different perspective. For me, get a replacement.” [their mission] perfectly.”

26 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS SpeciAL WArfAre Support 27 Once-in-a-Lifetime The EXW pin is mandatory for all active- duty, enlisted, support personnel, ranks E-5 Opportunities and above, who meet eligibility requirements The increased responsibilities of the and work in a command that allows the pin. assignments at NSW coexist with a number of E-4 and below and enlisted selected Reservists opportunities that are hard to find anywhere can qualify for the pin, but reservists must else. Working for NSW can give a Sailor a be assigned to an NSW Reserve unit for a crash course in ratings other than his or her minimum of a year prior to final qualification. own, or a firsthand look at how his or her SEALs and SWCC are allowed to pursue work directly impacts the SEALs’ mission. the pin. “My previous experience in the fleet was “To me, it was a lot more enjoyable than just a bunch of number-crunching, coming previous warfare qualifications, because it was in everyday for a 12-hour watch,” said Chief a lot more fun to learn how to set up a [field Intelligence Specialist John Collins, from shelter system] or field-strip an M-16, because Naval Special Warfare Support Activity 1. it’s something that’s practical to us. “You [didn’t] really see the effects of the Besides becoming a

▲ GM1(SW) Travis Haislip begins to analysis you’re doing. You don’t get the career-enhancing tool, ▲ ET1(SW) Daniel Haley demonstrates how disassemble an MK-48 machine gun instantaneous gratification from your the EXW qualification one of Mobile Communication Team 1’s for maintenance at the Logistic Support work, but what you’re doing [at NSW], demonstrates a Sailor satellite arrays unfold. Unit 1 armory. you get the gratification of guys going is a true expeditionary ▶ GMC(EXW/SW) Nicholas Peters out, finishing a target or doing a tribal asset, a skilled warfighter ◀ ET1(SW) Dan Haley demonstrates how to holds a modified Remington 870 engagement. It’s based off a lot of stuff that can be trusted even assemble wiring for a medium satellite deployable breecher shotgun in the Logistic Support node during a Mobile Communication Team 1 that you’ve done analytically.” in the most extreme Unit 1 armory. This weapon is used to equipment familiarization. blow hinges off locked doors. In an environment where self- situations. This trust reliance and initiative are fostered, is essential to the ▼ ET2 John Bartlet (right) and other members of Sailors are offered and encouraged to relationship between Mobile Communication Team 1, assemble a medium A Sailor in a combat service support role attend schools and master their craft to SEALs and support staff. satellite deployable node. The newly-formed command deploys ETs, ITs and other Sailors with almost has to have a “MacGyver” complex, the umpteenth degree. “You’re part of a the West Coast SEAL teams to provide an integrated being able to make a piece of equipment work “Being with NSW, I’ve actually been team,” said Master Chief battle space communications package. with little-to-nothing on hand while thinking able to attend two years of Arabic on one’s feet. language studies, through both military “[The operators can] show you how to make According to Johnson, another on-the-job and privately taught courses,” he said. “That’s a Humvee run on nothing,” said Johnson. test is often being the only mechanic, or benefited me a great deal – I’m proficient “How to battle start it, how to start it using just subject matter expert, on site. in reading and writing, semi-proficient in plain wires. It’s training you will never get to “That’s why they require all these schools, so speaking and understanding Arabic, which I see in a battalion or anywhere in the [Naval you’re ready for deployment,” said Johnson. used on my last deployment to Kuwait.” Construction Force].” Seabees assigned to NSW have to be The opportunity to earn the coveted The greatest level of autonomy afforded to especially versatile in their field, not just their Enlisted Expeditionary Warfare Specialist Sailors, in Agnew’s eyes, is one of the biggest given rating. (EXW) has become another incentive for challenges of working for NSW. “They see [that you’re a] Seabee and they hard-charging Sailors at NSW. Like any other “You’re held responsible at a higher level, and expect you to build, run wiring, weld, plumbing pin, much on-the-job training is involved. it gives you a challenge of, ‘I got to get this done, … you name it,” Johnson continued. “In a “It’s not too different from other warfare I got to get this done!’” Agnew explained. “[You battalion, when we deploy, you deploy with 700 qualifications in that the bulk of the work lies have to] know your resources. [Leadership is] people; so you have a large group of mechanics. primarily within completing the prerequisite not going to set you up for failure, but they Going by myself as the single mechanic for the material,” said Peters. “Once all that’s will give you a lot of responsibility. Having a site, I was like, ‘What do I do?’ I had to set up a completed, [completion of] the Expeditionary challenge is job satisfaction. I’m not just sitting whole shop, [and] I had to get everything ready Warfare book entails a lot of the items you around wasting time.” for the next guy who was going to relieve me.” would find in the Seabee handbooks.

28 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS SpeciAL WArfAre Support 29 Wanted: A Few Good Men Huber. “[They] need to be able to leverage rewarding. You get a lot out of it. The people support from other units on site, and they here will definitely reward you for what you do.” (And Women) did a fantastic job. NSW wouldn’t have been The message is clear – NSW duty can be “We seek the best people out there for able to function as a squadron without quality very rewarding personally and professionally, the mission at hand,” said Foley. “That Seabee support.” but it’s up to the Sailor to invest the great requires individuals who are independent Sailors wishing to throw their cover in the deal of effort required to succeed in such a thinkers. They are often out there on their ring with NSW have to know their ratings challenging and demanding community. own doing what we expect them to do. The well. Sailors interested in an NSW billet should Johnson’s words leave little else to be said. only time we really hear from them is when possess a valid security clearance, have no “If you come here, be prepared for the the job’s done.” non-judicial punishment or courts-martial on challenge. This isn’t an easy command. You Lt. David Huber, a supply officer within their record, and be able to qualify as a second gotta be ready.”’ NSW, had nothing but praise for the Seabees class swimmer. Vlahos and Brunson are assigned to Defense Media Activity – Anacostia, Washington, D.C. with whom he worked. “Some people come there thinking it’s Editor’s Note: For more information about “You might have two or three Seabees at a going to be a cakewalk, and they don’t do so Special Warfare Support assignments contact your location out in the middle of the desert,” said [well],” said Agnew. “For people who try – it’s command career counselor.

▲ GM2(SW) Michael McCrackin inspects an M-4 Assault Rifle in Logistic Support Unit 1’s armory, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, Calif. The armory accommodates more than 25 specialized weapons for the special operations community. Three Aqua Pumas sit on the deck facing north to acquire GPS lock, during a training gunner’s mates to make sure they have the evolution. The Aqua Puma, which has a weapons, the ammo, and the equipment six-foot wingspan, is an unmanned aerial vehicle capable of water landings. they need to get the job done. I wouldn’t say it’s a laid-back mentality, [but] more of a team atmosphere.” A key plus to being at NSW is that those who do well are almost never left unrecognized. “They take care of their people here,” said Johnson. “They give credit where credit is due. If you do a good job, you’re going to be recognized. They’ll pull you in front of the group [and] give you the recognition you deserve.” Foley senses the same feeling of reward among those battle-tested in the NSW environment. “I interview all of our people when they

U.S. Navy photo come in and when they leave,” he said, “and I have never had an outbound [person] transfer ▲ A turret gunner launches a Swift Utilitiesman (SCW) Paul Foley, “but when it from the command tell me that he did not like Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) from the top of a Humvee with a specially-designed comes down to it, these guys are the best at being here. That’s the kind of people I want.”

slingshot. SEAL Teams use UAVs to help what they do. They expect you to be on point. U.S. Navy photo scout out rugged terrain and urban areas “We all know each other, and we rely in real-time. on the guys we deploy with, and these guys rely on their storekeepers [and] their

30 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS SpeciAL WArfAre Support 31 had less than a full battalion, worked in a squadrons, expeditionary semi-austere contingency environment, intelligence units, and moved a great deal more equipment. This Just in maritime civil affairs We also had to compete for air lift with teams and expeditionary other services that were also in the process training teams. of redeployment. We trained very hard in “We are unique from embarkation last homeport and it was a NMCB 7 Redeploys to, Focuses on Afghanistan Operations other task forces in 5th magnificent success!” Fleet because we have Story and photo by MC2 Michael B. Lavendar, such a wide range of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7. eabees assigned to Naval Mobile capabilities,” said Lt. Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 Cmdr. Eric Bray, CTF-56 Srecently redeployed from Iraq to operations officer. “Our task groups cover Afghanistan. CTF-56 Serves Multiple ▲ multiple roles throughout Lt.j.g. Kristina Rohlin, from Russell, Pa., assigned to Roles in 5th Fleet Squadron 15 aboard USS Lassen (DDG 82), checks the size of a The move repositioned the battalion the U.S. 5th Fleet; from shirt before giving it to a girl at the Missionary Dominican Sisters to build bases for additional U.S. forces In the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, security, construction to of the Rosary orphanage in Dili, Timor-Leste. already flowing into southern Afghanistan the men and women of Commander Task ordnance disposal.” to reinforce the NATO-led International Force (CTF) 56 play a vital role in the region CTF-56 task groups deploy Security Assistance Force (ISAF). by providing operational oversight for all throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet Area “Our engineering services are needed naval expeditionary combat forces. of Operations to support various Lassen Completes here in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, CTF-56 supports nine different task groups commands. Successful Dili Visit to construct a number of new forward- including expeditionary combat, logistical “Our task forces are deployed to seven operating bases (FOB) in support of the support and combat service support forces. countries throughout the region,” said Bray. USS Lassen (DDG 82) conducted

much publicized 20,000-plus troop surge Photo by MC2 Michael B. Lavender “The mission of CTF-56 is to properly “Our task groups are serving in Operations community relation (COMREL)projects in into southern Afghanistan,” said Lt. Cmdr. ▲ Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7 depart an Air Force assign and manage Navy Expeditionary Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as well Dili, Timor-Leste during a recent port visit. James Brown, NMCB 7’s operations officer. C-17 aircraft following its arrival at a forward-operating base in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Combat Command (NECC) forces in as conducting maritime security operations.” The crew ofLassen hit the ground “We had a very important mission in Iraq NMCB 7 is deployed to Afghanistan to provide contingency construction support to Alliance theater,” said Capt. Michael Jordan, Members of the EOD task group regularly running with a COMREL within hours of supporting the 1st Marine Expeditionary forces supporting NATO International Security Assistance Forces. commander, CTF-56. deploy to front line commands. dropping anchor off the coast of the island Force, but there was a larger demand here CTF-56 has several different task groups “We get called to clear IEDs a lot in Iraq,” country. The first COMREL was at the in Afghanistan. Our capabilities, to not Navy Lt. Cmdr. John Bawer, deputy chief of this cooperative effort and we have so far. that fall under their command. These task said Explosive Ordnance Disposal 1st Class Missionary Dominican Sisters of the Rosary only build, but to build in hostile areas, staff, Bastion for Supply, Logistics and Real It’s been a great experience thus far. We in groups include: Naval construction force, (EWS) Phillip Morrison, who deployed there orphanage, where Sailors delivered toys and and defend ourselves and the new areas Life Support. the [United Kingdom] like to align with U.S. Navy explosive ordnance disposal, mobile in 2006 and 2007. “If EOD wasn’t there to sweets to the children. we create, made Seabees the logical and “The U.S. Marines arrived first, but forces when we go forward in countries and diving and salvage, maritime expeditionary remove IEDs, they might still be there killing “Everybody was running around and necessary choice.” the Seabees are who really captured our the Seabees of NMCB 7 are a great example security forces, Navy expeditionary logistics or wounding our Soldiers.” having a good time,” said Storekeeper 2nd The movement included the embarkation attention. We describe them as the ‘enablers of why we do.” support forces, combat camera, riverine EOD Sailors also help gather information Class (SW) Nakeia Golden, from Savannah, of troops and equipment necessary to ensure to the enablers.’ In the [United Kingdom], Some of the projects being undertaken on the IEDs being used in Iraq, which enable Ga. “Being out there having fun and mission success. we have nothing like them. The Seabees are a by NMCB 7 include perimeter berm ▼ Personnel assigned to Explosive Ordnance investigators to hunt the terror cells that supporting [the citizens] made it a great “The effort needed to airlift an entire self-contained unit who not just arrived, but construction, conducting security, Disposal Mobile Unit 1, Company 3, zero in on plant them. experience.”“The interactions also helped Seabee Battalion’s armored construction asked not ‘what the base could do for us’ but construction of perimeter security towers, their M-4 rifles on the range at Contingency CTF-56 also provides intelligence overcome the language barrier,” she added. equipment in less than 40 days would be a rather ‘what can we do for you?’ Their efforts grading the entire site, building nearly 10 Operating Base Speicher. information that helps NAVCENT operate The crew ofLassen was also invited to tremendous accomplishment for any unit,” greatly impressed us as they were eager to miles of interior roads, constructing fuel effectively. celebrate Australia Day, the Australian said Brown. help with an amazing attitude to back it.” storage areas, constructing helicopter landing “Being part of CTF-56 has given me a equivalent to American Independence Day. “Recognizing the extreme importance of While NMCB 7’s main effort focused zones and other infrastructure for various bigger view of how and why we operate the The highlight was a tug-of-war competition the mission and aggressive surge timeline, on quickly building the necessary force coalition forces. way we do,” said Intelligence Specialist 1st among members and contractors of the NMCB 7 successfully rose to an even higher protection emplacements for the FOB, the Additionally, NMCB 7 accepted the Class Douglas Kelley Jr. “Doing this job Australian Army, Lassen Sailors and challenge. For the first 30 days we were battalion will occupy, some Seabees focused challenge and surpassed the expectations not allows those in command to make informed members of various regional forces of the simultaneously embarking ourselves out of on providing service to the U.K.-run base posed to many Seabee battalions. decisions on how to best use our troops and International Stabilization Force and United

Iraq and into Afghanistan, constructing a and other deployed units. “Our most recent redeployment evolution Photo by MC2 Joan E. Kretschmer resources.” Nations Mission in Timor-Leste. American new 430-acre FOB, and providing security “The battalion of Seabees assisted with proved that our deployment success was not “I’m glad to be supporting the troops service members interacted with their for five miles of site perimeter. cooking meals and with dental work as well just luck or chance,” said Brown. “In fact, on the front lines,” said Morrison. “I counterparts from the defense forces of both While deployed to Afghanistan, NMCB 7 as some construction work,” said Bawer. it showed us that we were well-prepared by always want to be as involved as possible Australia and Timor-Leste throughout the will be part of ISAF, working with other U.S. “They came in with great numbers, yet the the 20th Seabee Readiness Group embark in supporting the troops who are in harm’s port visit, conducting training on damage Armed Forces and NATO allies, including impact to our base was minimal as they staff. NMCBs, by doctrine, can deploy an air way. That’s the greatest honor that a Sailor control and visit, board, search and seizure British, Danish and Dutch forces. were so eager to help. We’re very big about detachment of 89 personnel within 48 hours can have.” techniques. “The first real evidence of the U.S. surge the Seabees, as they are personnel who can of notification. When the battalion deploys Story by MC2 Matt Snodgrass, “It was an honor to be invited to attend into southern Afghanistan became apparent take charge of a project and ensure it is an air detachment…the entire battalion Commander Task Force 56. Australia Day,” said Aviation Warfare when the Seabees arrived,” said British Royal completed. The British can learn a lot from contributes to the effort. In this case, we Systems Operator 2nd Class (NAC) Hadley

32 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS THiS JuST iN 33 Dykes, from Denver. “It was a great blue water operations,” said Cmdr. Raul opportunity to meet and greet some of the RiVGRu 1 increases Gandara, chief staff officer for RIVGRU 1. Navy iTs Adapt to a APS Running Mates Program Nurtures people from the other services and countries Command, Control with The RCB is equipped with a remote Changing World, Support Long-term Relationships we work with.” operated small arms mount (ROSAM) on The major outreach event was at the New RCB Boat which a variety of machine guns can be Maritime Strategy West African trainees and U.S. Sailors “My [running mate] explains what he is Comoro Intermediate School, where Lassen Riverine Group 1 is testing its first mounted. The ROSAM allows for a safer When the Navy shot down a non- participating in Africa Partnership Station doing and that helps me to understand all Sailors spent three days repairing equipment Riverine Command Boat, which gives mission by keeping Sailors inside the boat functioning satellite last year, an information (APS) Nashville are building partnerships on the personal qualifications on the ship,” said and beautifying classrooms. The Sailors Riverine squadrons the ability to travel while operating the weapon. It also has an systems technician (IT) didn’t “push the both professional and personal levels with Banadjuba. “I think this is a good program. painted the interior and exterior of the not only in rivers, but also out to bays and automatic target locking capability, which button,” but an IT did provide the critical APS’s running mates program aboard USS When I follow him, we work together and it classroom buildings and cleaned windows, coastal regions, expanding the capabilities allows easier and more accurate operation data and the managed communications Nashville (LPD 13). helps answer any questions I may have.” desks, and other areas of the school grounds. of command and control and the Riverine during high seas and high speed operations. links required to execute the mission. The running mates program, one of APS APS works cooperatively with U.S. and Damage Controlman Fireman Gabriel squadrons’ maritime security reach. Several universal mounts topside also allow Each day throughout the fleet Nashville’s main components, provides multinational partners to enhance maritime Alcaine, from San Jose, Calif., made a RCB-1, which the command received in Riverine squadrons to mount any of type of commanding officers and other naval opportunities for building and strengthening safety and security for the continent of Africa. particularly lasting impact on the school, October, has a primary mission of improving manned machine gun or grenade launcher leaders make important decisions that affect relationships between navies at an interpersonal The running mates program builds upon that fixing a water pump that had been broken maritime security. With its versatility, the needed for the mission. not only the lives and welfare of Sailors in level. This goal is achieved by teaming pairs of idea from the deckplate level allowing the for more than a year, providing running boat offers the ability for use as a primary “The Navy saw other countries use their their command, but the lives and welfare of West African and Nashville Sailors together relationships built to act as the catalyst for a water to the students. Alcaine was originally boat in combat missions, patrolling missions, version of the RCB, and saw that the boat can many Americans. ITs ensure the critical data for three weeks at a time. During this period, safer maritime environment. born and raised in El Salvador and said as a combat information center and can even do anything you need; it can be refueled at and timely communications key decision- Nashville Sailors familiarize their African Story and photo by MC2 David Holmes, he understands what it’s like to live in be configured as an ambulance boat. It is sea, giving it the capability for use on long- makers rely on remain secure and open. counterparts with the U.S. Navy’s leadership USS Nashville (LPD 13). poor conditions. designed to land on a variety of shorelines, range missions,” said Engineman 1st Class IT training typically begins shortly after philosophy and programs for training, “I know what it’s like to grow up in the including solid rock, to drop off and extract (EXW/SW) Christian Jimenez, RCB coxswain. a Sailor completes boot camp. They report maintenance, logistics and operations at sea. conditions that these kids have to live with personnel from any area. The cockpit is constructed with armor to Pensacola for 11 weeks of intensive “A” “I think it’s a really good way to build every day,” said Alcaine. “So, if providing “The draft and basic hull construction plating around the boat, protecting the school training at the Center for Information relationships at the [deckplate] level,” said running water to the school will bring even allows the craft to operate effectively in crew members and engine compartment Dominance (CID), Corry Station where they Lt. Will Phillips, assistant embarked trainee a little bit of happiness, then that makes me environments from open seas to shallow during passage through harsh areas. The learn numerous technical skills. coordinator. “Normally, we see high- feel like I’m making a difference.” river waters,” said Chief Engineman (SW) armor protects against small arms fire and The new ITs learn about designing, ranking officials or defense attachés building The crew also distributed Project Michael Flanagan RCB engineer, “That fragments from nearby explosions. installing, operating and maintaining relationships at the strategic or operational level. Handclasp pallets of medical supplies, infant means we are capable of being launched The boat also protects against nuclear, state-of-the-art information systems Now you see one-on-one interaction between care supplies, and sports equipment to a local from shore or a ship and operating in almost chemical and biological agents because the including local and wide-area networks, junior officers and enlisted as well.” charity. The supplies will be used to help the any environment that our area commander cabin and cockpit can be pressurized when mainframe, mini and microcomputer Togoese Navy Petty Officer 1st Class ▲ Africa Partnership Station (APS) embarked citizens of Dili. requires. Versatility is the key word.” entering a contaminated area. There is a systems and associated peripheral devices; Mouzou Banadjuba agreed that the trainees practice manning a fire hose aboard USS During the last evening, Lassen hosted The normal crew for the RCB is three to facility inside the compartment in case of writing programs to handle the collection, interaction has benefited him. Nashville (LPD 13) during damage control training. José Manuel Ramos-Horta, the president of five personnel, and the crew compartment decontamination being needed. manipulation and distribution of data Timor-Leste, for a reception on board. holds up to 15. “On a general scale coming straight from for a wide variety of applications and “I feel proud that Lassen is representing the While this is the first of six RCBs, mission the manufacturer,” said Jimenez, “we can requirements; performing the functions are integrated to the success of putting of and maintain $400 million of digital and United States to the people of Timor-Leste,” requirements will determine how many make this boat into anything we want, which of a computer system analyst; operating weapons on a target,” said Capt. Connie communications equipment for more than said Lt. j.g. Thomas Brewer, of Aiken, S.C. “It’s RCBs each squadron will have. is another great thing about the RCB.” and coordinating telecommunications Frizzell, commanding officer, CID Corry 2,000 joint and coalition forces station in nine not every day that you host a head of state “The RCB will be used for command and Story by MC2(SW) Michael R. Hinchcliffe, systems including automated networks Station. “Job diversity for this rating is as countries throughout the Horn of Africa. aboard a U.S. warship. I was honored.” control of Riverine forces in the river deltas is assigned to Navy Expeditionary and the full spectrum of data links and diverse as the spectrum of operations.” “While I was in Africa I supported the “The crew has left a huge and lasting and bays where brown water interfaces with Combat Command, Norfolk. circuits; transmitting, receiving, operating, “ITs are working side-by-side with Air Force, Army and Marines in addition footprint, accomplishing great feats monitoring, controlling and processing all Marine, Air Force and Army personnel to to German and French coalition forces with throughout the city, and I take pride in forms of telecommunications through various provide specialized communications and equipment, key materiel and COMSEC being able to say that. They worked hard to transmission media including global networks. network expertise,” Sauter said. “Although the (classified security equipment and materiel) make the city a better place for the citizens “CID is exceptionally proud of helping systems used for kinetic ground operations are policy,” Doughty said. “It was a big operation of Timor-Leste,” said Cmdr. Anthony Sailors execute the maritime strategy,” said somewhat different from the ones that are used and my team was constantly providing Simmons, commanding officer ofLassen . CID Corry Station Training Directorate on board ships, the principles we teach in our oversight, accountability and training to “In America, we know that a good Head Chuck Sauter. “CID prepares our classrooms apply to both shipboard and ground- our designated local element managers, the education is critical to realizing your dreams. Sailors to help achieve the imperatives of the based systems. This allows our ITs to report to people who were our authorized customers.” Success starts at the schoolhouse door, so maritime strategy. Our focus is building the their units and immediately contribute to the The speed, flexibility, agility and we feel that we’ve directly contributed to future force and developing training paths team anywhere in the world.” scalability of maritime forces provide joint a prosperous future for the kids in Timor- The new Riverine Command for an IT’s career.” Information Systems Technician 1st Class or combined force commanders a range of Boat allows Riverine The IT skills are in high demand, but ITs (SW) Dave Doughty, a CID Corry Station options for responding to crises, and it’s the Leste,” he said. squadrons access to bays must be prepared keep pace with a rapid IT instructor who spent a year with the Information Systems Technicians of the U.S. Story and photo by MCSN Charles Oki, and coastal areas, which U.S. Navy photo Navy Public Affairs Support Element Japan. expands their command technology turnover. Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa Navy that help keep those critical data and and control capabilities. “Peacetime IT skills may include assisting headquartered in Djibouti as an electronic key communications lines open. emerging partner nations with advanced management system manager explained that Story by Gary Nichols, Center for Information technology applications; wartime IT skills his role there was primarily to help keep track Dominance Corry Station, Pensacola, Fla.

34 ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS THiS JuST iN 35 maximum entitlement for your rank and as pro gear. Declare all PBP&E weight, Something to Think About dependent status,” said Brown. even if your estimate is within your weight “Many factors can contribute to excess costs, allowance. Check to ensure the weight is such as attempted pickup or delivery charges, reflected on your DD Form 1299 prior to exceeding maximum weight allowances or pickup. Separate the PBP&E before the storage periods, shipping excess distances or transportation service provider (carrier) unauthorized items, or even accessorial services arrives, as they must mark and weigh such as packing and crating,” said Brown. the pro gear. Check your inventory form Avoid Excess Costs When Shipping “Always consult your local personal periodically to ensure the carrier annotates property office [PPO] before arranging any PBP&E accurately. type of government-funded household ■ Request a reweigh if your pre-move Household Goods goods move.” survey estimate is more than your Story by Nannette Davis, graphic by MC2(SW) William Blake When planning your move, it is maximum allowance. If your shipment important to avoid or minimize excess is picked up and exceeds your weight ■ Pay attention to weight estimates costs wherever possible. allowance, ask the destination PPO to Remember, weight estimates made by “Consider donating or discarding reweigh the shipment. Reweighing the carriers or personal property counselors he process to close out a permanent change of unneeded HHG items such as appliances, shipment will not cause any increase in are not binding; they are for planning furniture, housewares, collectibles and excess cost to you. purposes only. Excess costs are based on station (PCS) household goods (HHG) move can be building or remodeling supplies. It helps you ■ Avoid shipping excess unaccompanied the actual weight of unpacked and uncrated longer than expected and often Sailors are at risk of and it helps the Navy,” Brown said. baggage (UB): Because UB shipments household goods, and cannot be accurately receiving a bill many months after the actual move. Brown also recommends discussing usually travel by air, they tend to be determined until the shipment is packed, T storage requirements with a personal very costly and may result in higher picked up and weighed at a certified scale. There are several aspects of PCS moves that including privately owned vehicles (POVs). property counselor before the move. excess costs per pound. Avoid shipping all Navy personnel need to be aware of to help “Every pound we move costs the Navy and “A Navy family might not own a home at unnecessary items in your UB. So, what should you do if you receive a themselves and to help the Navy. Rear Adm. adds to the potential for Sailors to pay excess the new duty station or have a rental property ■ Minimize temporary storage in transit (SIT). notification of indebtedness for a household Andy Brown, commander, Fleet weight charges,” said Brown. “And, it could picked out, so they may need to move into SIT raises the overall cost of personal property goods shipment? and Industrial Supply Centers take up to two years from the date of your a temporary residence,” Brown said. “If all shipments and may increase the total excess Brown, who has paid excess costs himself, (COMFISCS), is making last move for the bill to reach you.” of their household goods can’t fit into the cost. If your shipment is overweight, have it is on a mission to advise Sailors. PCS move support a top Navy members can perform different types temporary residence, the government is not delivered within the authorized time frame, “Review your shipping documents for each command priority. of HHG shipments under most PCS orders obligated to pay for temporary storage in generally within 90 days of arrival move and pay special attention to “Too many Sailors such as personally procured “do-it-yourself” transit (SIT) beyond 90 days.” at destination. the household goods inventory sheets,” are getting billed for moves and government-arranged household To avoid incurring debts for government- ■ Overseas weight restricted areas: If you advises Brown. “Carefully check your DD exceeding authorized goods, unaccompanied baggage and non- directed moves, here are some tips on staying are moving to, from or between an Form 1299 [Application for Shipment weight allowances or temporary (long-term) storage shipments. within your authorized weight allowance. administratively weight restricted area, and/or Storage of Personal Property] to making bad decisions; this For each type, the weight is counted ■ Dispose of unwanted articles. Shipping ensure any additional weight allowances ensure PBP&E or pro gear was annotated. hurts our Sailors and costs against the maximum weight allowance. unneeded articles is needlessly expensive; are approved before shipping. Contact Submit all supporting documentation the Navy more to move them,” Weight allowances are based on a member’s shipping costs vary based on your local PPO for more information. to the household goods audit team said Brown. rank and number of family members. destination, region or country. ■ Excessive packing: If (HHG-AT) within 30 days of the On average, the Navy processes “You will pay excess costs if the combined ■ Claim professional books, papers and you feel the carrier used indebtedness notification.” 178,000 PCS orders a year at weight of all shipments made under a equipment (PBP&E), also referred to excessive packing material If you no longer have copies of your a total cost of approximately specific PCS order exceeds the for your move, notify shipping documents, contact your local $800 million. Of this, almost the destination PPO or the HHG-AT toll-free at 1-888-742- $500 million is spent moving PPO prior to 4467, or via e-mail to [email protected]. household goods, delivery. They Overseas callers may call DSN 312-646-5412 can instruct or commercial (757) 443-5412. You can also the carrier to log on to their Web site at https://pptas.ahf. completely unpack nmci.navy.mil/pptcs/. the shipment and Davis is assigned to Commander, Fleet & verify the weight of the Industrial Supply Centers, San Diego; Blake is assigned to Defense Media Activity- packing materials. Anacostia, Washington, D.C

36 A ll HANDS • www.navy.mil April 2009 • All HANDS 37 “I created the sustainment Life Saver in Combat program to further enhance and sharpen Story by MC2 Robyn Gerstenslager, photo by MCC(SW/AW) Katt Whittenberger the skills of a SOCM, pecial Warfare Boat Operator 2nd Cowgar was injured during the attack, but “I created the sustainment program to enabling them to better Class John Cowgar of Naval Special aggressively engaged the enemy until the further enhance and sharpen the skills of SWarfare Group (NSWG) 4 competed troop was out of the contact area. He ignored a SOCM, enabling them to better treat their teammates.” against more than 100 other SEAL and special his own injuries and tended to a teammate treat their teammates,” said Cowgar. “So far warfare combatant-craft crewmen (SWCC) with severe shrapnel wounds. it’s working very well. It has provided an combat medics within Naval Special Warfare His selfless efforts earned him the Bronze avenue for learning which has increased our Command to be selected as the Naval Special Star with a V for Valor, March 10, 2008. medical readiness across the board.” Warfare Special Operations Combat Medic “My training has benefitted me every day,” Already Cowgar’s efforts have lead to (SOCM) of the year by the Special Operations said Cowgar. “Since becoming a SOCM, I an increase in SWCC SOCM manpower. Medical Association have been given the chance to help others on Since the implementation of his sustainment “He’s an excellent example of a SOCM in a regular basis.” program SOCM numbers within the special Naval Special Warfare,” said Senior Chief Since reporting to the NSWG 4’s medical boat team community have increased.

Hospital Corpsman Rickie Fry, NSWG 4’s department in April 2008 Cowgar has taken Gerstenslager and Whittenberger are assigned to medical department leading chief petty officer. the SOCM program within the special boat Naval Special Warfare Group 4, Virginia Beach, Va. “He has excellent medical and leadership skills team community under his wing. He that he has proven in combat.” created a tracking program to stay current The most challenging step to becoming a on the number of SOCMs at each team and SOCM is six months of intensive training at at the schoolhouse. the Joint Special Operations Medical Training After a SWCC receives his SOCM Center, Fort Bragg, N.C. certification, Cowgar ensures that each The training taught him to perform a variety one maintains his credentials by tracking of life-saving skills in an austere environment individual re-certification dates. Cowgar with a focus on trauma skills. A SOCM may be also developed a sustainment program called upon to administer advanced cardiac life for all SWCC medics. support , intubation, chest tube thoracostomy or venous cut downs. He put those skills to the test in 2006 while deployed to Iraq with a Riverine Troop (RT) from Special Boat Team 22; during a mission the RT was ambushed by an improvised explosive device (IED) and small arms fire.

focus on 38 Service ALL HANDS • www.navy.mil a priL 2009 • ALL HANDS 39 History A World of

The submarine left England for New York City, sailing more Possibilities USS Nautilus: Under Ice than 3,100 miles submerged in six days, 11 hours, and 55 minutes. Upon her arrival, the crew was greeted with a hero’s welcome, IA Officer Awarded Bronze on Nuclear Power followed by a traditional New York-style ticker-tape parade. Story by MC2Ron Kuzlik During the next three decades, Nautilus continued to perform her mission with pride and distinction, passing many milestones Star, Shares Experiences SS Nautilus (SSN 571) commanding officer Cmdr. Eugene and many firsts.Nautilus and her crews earned a variety of P. Wilkinson sent the message “Underway on Nuclear awards and commendations for their gallant service. Individual Augmentee UPower,” to the submarine force commander, as the world’s In the spring of 1979, Nautilus sailed from Groton, Conn., Story by MCC Dean Lohmeyer first nuclear-powered submarine cast off her lines and departed on her final voyage. the pier at Groton, Conn., on the morning of Jan. 17, 1955. Following a career that spanned nearly a quarter century She was the fourth ship to bear the name Nautilus. of service – after 2,507 dives and more than 513,550 This Nautilus was made miles steamed – she was decommissioned March 3, he executive officer of Naval “Helping the ministry build a system possible only after 1980, at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo, Calif. Submarine Support Center, Norfolk, of accountability was the biggest scientists and engineers at Years later, Nautilus’ recently received the Bronze Star accomplishment we were able to help ◀ T the Naval Reactors Branch The watch crew in the commanding officer Medal for nearly a year of service as an them complete,” said Hoch. “Part of of the Atomic Energy control room of USS Nautilus at the time of her individual augmentee (IA) at Forward building that system of accountability (SSN 571) maintained exact Commission developed a decommissioning, Operating Base (FOB) Shield, Sadr City, was moving to a computerized tracking course and depth as the sub pressurized water reactor passed under the polar ice cap. retired Rear Adm. Baghdad, Iraq. system. Before, these items were tracked nuclear propulsion plant. (then-Cmdr.) Richard on paper. This wasn’t simply an issue The design and construction A. Riddell commented Hoch, a 44-year-old native of Lebanon, with the Iraqi Army or Iraqi Police.” of Nautilus was overseen by on Nautilus’ durability Pa., served with the Iraqi Ministry of Hoch’s unit was tasked not only with none other than then-Capt. and reliability. Interior Transition Team for Logistics. developing a system to track future deliveries Hyman G. Rickover, the “I find it astounding His duties included outfitting the Iraqi of weapons, ammunition, uniforms and “Father of the Nuclear Navy.” ▶ The crew of USS Nautilus that this submarine, with Police, the Border Patrol, and the Federal more, but also with trying to track down Her keel was laid by the (SSN 571) stands quarters its first-of-a-kind Bureau of Investigation (FBI), with what had already been distributed. 33rd President of the United for entering the port of New propulsion plant, could weapons, ammunition, body armor, Hoch said they did their best to States Harry S Truman, York. Nautilus arrived after operate so well for almost uniforms, and additional equipment. assure those who had been armed June 14, 1952, and launched making a trans-polar voyage 25 years. This is like the Hoch, who has completed 10 patrols that they wouldn’t have to give up Jan. 21, 1954, as First under the Arctic ice cap. Wright Brothers aircraft on four different ballistic missile their weapons, because in a country Lady Mamie Eisenhower being used for passenger submarines, found service in Iraq as such as Iraq, bearing arms is not only “The prison took a couple hits, we took broke the traditional bottle of champagne across her bow as service for 25 years, or the a submariner to be an eye-opener. a right but a part of their culture. one in our motor pool, the Baghdad Nautilus slid down the ways into the Thames River in Groton. first Model-T Ford being used as a taxi in a big city for 25 years. A former senior chief missile As he learned more about the police college took a couple, and the helo By Feb. 4, 1957, Nautilus logged 60,000 nautical miles, matching “My tour on Nautilus really made me appreciate the genius of technician, Hoch believes his experience culture, he was intrigued how work pad took a couple hits, but even though the endurance record of the fictionalized submarineNautilus , from Admiral Rickover and his team in building a propulsion plant that on the whole was positive. was built around friendships. we were in what most people think of Jules Verne’s 1870 novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea. could run hard for 25 years.” It was definitely a learning experience “You could go into a meeting with as the bad part of town, it was quiet.” Under the command of Cmdr. William R. Anderson, Nautilus Nautilus was later designated a National Historic Landmark by serving with a Danish general, a British an Iraqi, and you’re going to spend 15 Hoch’s advice to Sailors who are thinking and her 116-man crew departed , July 23, 1958, under the Secretary of the Interior on May 20, 1982, and was later towed general, U.S. State Department personnel minutes talking about family, what you did about volunteering for an IA, or who are top secret orders, Operation Sunshine. Then, on Aug. 3, he back home to Groton. and U.S. contractors, said Hoch. yesterday, what you’re doing tomorrow, concerned about their chances of being sent announced to his crew, “For the world, Our Country and the Navy – On April 11, 1986, the eighty-sixth anniversary of the birth of the He was a mentor for three Iraqi generals and whatever it may be, and then you’ll on an IA, is to be proactive in the decision. the North Pole.” submarine force, the Historic Ship Nautilus and Submarine Force within Iraq’s Ministry of Interior. These talk 10 minutes about the business that “I tell everyone that if you’re planning Nautilus had accomplished what was previously considered Museum opened its doors to the public. experiences gave him a whole new outlook brought you there in the first place.” on staying in the Navy for the next 10 impossible – they had reached the North Pole, 90-degrees North. “I really loved that old ship,” Riddell recalled. “Having command on what it would be like to work in a During his service, Hoch years, you’re going to do an IA,” he said. After 96 hours submerged and 1,590 miles under the ice, Nautilus of USS Nautilus was the best assignment I had in the U.S. Navy!” multinational, joint-service environment. experienced several brief attacks “It would be better for you to choose where surfaced in the Greenland Sea, completing the first submerged Kuzlik is assigned to Defense Media Activity – Anacostia, Washington, D.C. Hoch’s biggest challenge during his while he served at FOB Shield. you’re going rather than to be sent on an voyage under the North Pole. IA tour was developing accountability “The insurgents targeted the prison while IA without any input on the decision.” Nautilus then proceeded to Portland, England, where she was for the supplies he and his crew I was there because they were planning a Story by MCC Dean Lohmeyer, Commander presented the Presidential Unit Citation, the first time the “PUC” was handled on a daily basis. raid to get their people out,” said Hoch. Submarine Force, Norfolk. ever awarded in peacetime.

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