Navy News Service

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. You are subscribed to Navy News for U.S. Navy. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Navy News Service NNS130809-13. Navy Creates Victims' Legal Counsel -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75884 NNS130809-04. USS Freedom's "Blue" Crew Gets Ship Underway from Singapore -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75868 NNS130811-05. Pacific Partnership 2013 Commemorates the 71st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75896 NNS130811-07. U.S., Australian Navies Participate in TS13 Exchange Program -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75901 NNS130811-06. USS Gettysburg Launches United Through Reading -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75899 NNS130809-11. Chaplain of the Year Award Presented to Lt. Cmdr. Frank Riley -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75875 NNS130810-01. NMCB 3 Deploys to Pacific -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75848 NNS130809-22. Women at Sea: Lincoln Sailors Form Association for Females in the Navy -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75880 NNS130810-02. NMCB 3 Prepares to Make 'Significant Difference' in Timor-Leste -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75889 NNS130810-08. USS Gettysburg Hosts Ambassador to France -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75891 NNS130809-20. Pacific Fleet Master Chief Visits Paul Hamilton -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75888 NNS130809-23. USS Nicholas Returns Home for the Final Time -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75879 NNS130809-21. Third Fleet Hosts Seattle Disaster Response Seminar -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75887 NNS130809-10. Naval Chaplaincy School and Center Graduates Newest Members of Navy's Religious Ministry Team -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75871 NNS130809-06. Submarine Group 7 Sailors and Organizations Around the World Participate in SMASHEX -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75866 NNS130809-05. USS George Washington Wraps up Midshipman Summer Cruise Training -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75867 NNS130810-03. Reserve Sailors Champion Visitor Experience -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75858 NNS130811-01. Truman Bids "Au Revoir" To Marseille -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75895 NNS130811-04. Bonhomme Richard ARG Conducts CERTEX -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75900 NNS130811-08. Norfolk Tides Host Navy Night -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=75902 DNU -- Headline for Friday, August 9th, 2013: Navy Scientists Fight Antibiotic-Resistant Diseases With Technology -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18739 DNU -- Week in Review August 3rd - 9th 2013 Your Navy in Action, Photos and video submitted by the Fleet. -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18740 NNS020712-03. This Day in Naval History - Aug. 11 -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=2490 Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day -- http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=156897 -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-13. Navy Creates Victims' Legal Counsel From Defense Media Activity-Navy FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. (NNS) -- The Navy announced the establishment of the Navy's newest Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) initiative, the Victims' Legal Counsel (VLC) Program, which will provide legal advice and advocacy for eligible victims of sexual assault. The Victims' Legal Counsel will help victims understand the investigation and military justice process, advocate their legal rights and interests and, when appropriate, appear in court on their behalf. "The Navy is committed to protecting the rights and interests of victims of sexual assault and ensuring the administration of a fair, transparent and efficient military justice system that guarantees due process for the accused and promotes good order and discipline," said Vice Adm. Nanette M. DeRenzi, Judge Advocate General of the Navy. "The Navy's Victims' Legal Counsel program complements the Navy's broader efforts to care for victims of sexual assault by providing them with legal advice and assistance throughout the military justice process." Initially, the VLC Program will consist of 29 specially-trained, independent judge advocates assigned regionally to maximize availability of counsel across the Fleet. Navy VLCs will serve every geographic region, including the United States, Europe, the Pacific, and the Middle East. The program's attorneys will not be in the victim's or the accused's chain of command and will not be involved in case prosecution or defense. "Through increased training and bystander intervention we are confronting sexual assault fleet wide, while ensuring that we provide needed care and support to victims," said Rear Adm. Sean Buck, Director, 21st Century Sailor Office (N17). "This program further adds to that support." For more information and resources to combat sexual assault visit www.sapr.navy.mil. Sexual assault affects Navy readiness, and the Navy is committed to preventing sexual assault. Join the Navy's conversation about sexual assault on social media and help raise awareness by using #NavySAPR. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-04. USS Freedom's "Blue" Crew Gets Ship Underway from Singapore By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Karolina Oseguera SINGAPORE (NNS) -- USS Freedom's "Blue" crew got the ship underway for the first time Aug 8., days after completing a crew swap with the "Gold" crew. The morning began with command quarters and an awards ceremony for a junior Sailor: Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Christian Diaz was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and a Letter of Appreciation. Then LCS crew 101 kicked into full gear: shore power disconnected, engineering and command and control spaces manned and equipment secured for sea for the first underway of their deployment to Southeast Asia. "With all the training and preparation we completed prior to getting underway," said Damage Controlman 3rd Class Jessica Brigance. "I believe we are more than capable to put Freedom on the map and show people what LCS is all about." Brigance, from Conway, Ark., has been in the Navy for one year on this day exactly and says this deployment will be a great and challenging experience for her. This is her first time at sea. This initial underway gives the crew an opportunity to exercise command and control functions, damage control, as well as visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operations. Scheduled events during this underway will include: flight operations, aircraft and main space firefighting drills, rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) launch and recovery movements, compliant boarding exercises, and 57mm and 30mm fire control exercises. "We will be conducting maritime interception operations with a 12-man boarding team," said Chief Gunner's Mate Joel Hernandez. "This deployment will give our team the opportunity to refine the team's tactical knowledge and techniques." "Getting underway is a proud moment for our Sailors," said Freedom's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Pat Thien. "We have a great feeling of accomplishment after all the training and work we completed prior to arriving in Singapore. We are finally doing what we need to do." Fast, agile and mission-focused, littoral combat ships are designed to operate in near-shore environments and employ modular mission packages that can be configured for surface warfare, mine countermeasures, or anti-submarine warfare. Freedom deployed to Southeast Asia March 1, and completed a crew swap Aug. 6, marking the midway point of the deployment. Freedom will return to her homeport in San Diego at the end of the year. For more news from Commander, Task Force 73, visit www.navy.mil/local/ctf73/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-05. Pacific Partnership 2013 Commemorates the 71st Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Fowler, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West HONIARA, Solomon Islands (NNS) -- Pacific Partnership 2013 leadership, crew members and partner-nation service members joined with international dignitaries near the historic battle site, "Bloody Ridge," to commemorate the 71st anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal, Aug 7. 71-years ago the mission was to provide liberty, said U.S. Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, Walter E. North. Now standing in its wake is Pacific Partnership 2013, another mission to the Solomon Islands to provide liberty. This time, rather than through war, liberty comes through increased maritime security and disaster preparedness. "I had a chance to visit the various ground activities, both here and in Papua New Guinea, and it was awesome," said North. "I'm not surprised that our military, which is the best in the world, would do a remarkable job - the execution was amazing." At the invitation of the US Consular, Keithie Saunders, and on behalf of the US Guadalcanal Memorial Committee, the ceremony honored those who fought and those who lost their lives in the effort to liberate the island and secure an important logistics way point that prevented further Japanese expansion into the Pacific. "The sacrifices born on these hallowed grounds must not be forgotten," said PP13's Mission Commander, U.S. Navy Capt. Wallace Lovely, after recognizing the dignitaries and service members, both past and present. "We stand here today as a continual reminder that the strength of our alliance was forged in the past sacrifices of those who came here before us and of those who never left." For many in the audience, not forgetting was seen in a historical context, but for one person, Lt. Cmdr. Karrey Sanders, USS Pearl Harbor's (LSD 52) executive officer, not forgetting meant remembering someone whom he would never meet. "My grandfather fought here," Sanders said. "I don't know much about his experiences during World War II because he never spoke about them, until one Thanksgiving when I was a BM2 [Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class]. It was after dinner and we were watching football; out of nowhere, he started to talk about at Guadalcanal." Sanders said his grandfather was a member of an aircraft squadron. One day his father was assigned to go on a mission, but he was sick. A friend volunteered to go in his place. "His friend never came back," said Sanders. "As my grandfather was telling me the story, some of my other family members started to gather around to listen." When his grandfather noticed the crowd, he stopped talking and never again spoke of the person who took his place on that ill-fated mission. The Battle of Guadalcanal is remembered, by many, for its role in securing U.S. air superiority in the Pacific. It is also remembered for the sacrifice of the approximately 38,000 combined U.S., ally and Japanese men who lost their lives during the battle. Perhaps none felt the history of those who died during the battle more than the Pacific Partnership's Marine Corps members. For Sgt. Jonathan Braun, a member of the civil military coordination center, standing on the very spot where such brutal fighting had happened 71-years ago to the hour, meant a lot. "Looking around the island that morning, I could see smoke from fires, probably people just burning trash, but to me it seemed a fitting reminder of the fires that must have raged in these very hills during the battle," said Braun. Braun spent the first three years of his career with 1st Marine Division, known as the Guadalcanal division, a name they earned for their role in the battle. "I'll talk about this ceremony for the rest of my career," said Braun. "Being able to represent 1st Marine Division at its fiercest battle is something I will always remember." Pacific Partnership 2013 is a collaborative effort of military members and civilians from 10 partner nations including Australia, Canada, Colombia, France, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, New Zealand and the United States that improves maritime security through disaster preparedness. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacensandiego/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-07. U.S., Australian Navies Participate in TS13 Exchange Program By Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Christopher Smith, USS George Washington Public Affairs PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The U.S. and Royal Australian navies participated in a professional exchange program (PEP) in support of exercise Talisman Saber 2013 (TS13), July 13-24. The PEP allowed 45 Sailors to embark the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) guide-missile frigate HMAS Sydney (FFG 03) to interact with crew members, learn ship capabilities and perform foreign liaison duties during TS13. "It was important to have [RAN Sailors] aboard to broaden our horizons on each other's capabilities," said Lt. Brian Anthony, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15's plans and exercise officer. "Additionally, this program allowed Australian liaison officers to partake in carrier protection operations at a staff level, which should improve their ability to protect the carrier in future bilateral operations." Liaisons provided the RAN critical insight of U.S. tactics, techniques and procedures of Aegis-class guided-missile destroyer operations for their future operations once their military completes construction of three new Aegis-class destroyers. Besides performing official duties, RAN Sailors were afforded the opportunity to visit the ship of a partner nation. Sydney Able Seaman Adam Szlicht, who toured George Washington, said his short tenure aboard the ship was overwhelming and departed with a desire for continued joint operations between both countries to enable his fellow RAN Sailors the chance to experience this unique opportunity. Szlicht said he was most impressed by the carrier's flight operations. "I'm really impressed by the number of aircraft stationed on the ship; I've never seen jets stationed on ships," said Szlicht. "Everything from the movement of the people prior to the launch of aircraft to persons conducting maintenance intrigued us." George Washington Sailors were also intrigued with the capabilities and personnel of Sydney. "I cannot believe that everyone onboard [Sydney] has at least four jobs due to their low manning," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Alexis Madison. "I met a guy who worked as a barber, deck hand, fire fighter and cook." Besides their hard work ethic in the midst of an undermanned ship, U.S. Sailors admired their willingness to interact and work with one another. "The Australian Sailors expressed a keen eagerness to share information to their counterparts and talk about the difference in our tactics to complete our overall mission." said Cryptological Technician Technical 1st Class Robert Lynch. Talisman Saber is a biennial training activity aimed to improve Australian and U.S. combat readiness and interoperability. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS George Washington (CVN 73), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn73/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-06. USS Gettysburg Launches United Through Reading By Ensign Kiley Provenzano, Public Affairs, USS Gettysburg Public Affairs ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- USS Gettysburg (CG 64) launched its United Through Reading program while deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility, providing the opportunity for children of Sailors aboard Gettysburg to hear their parent's voice during the deployment. United Through Reading was founded by Betty J. Mohlenbrock in 1989 as a means for forward deployed Sailors to reach back to their children through bed time stories. Her own two year old daughter did not recognize her father following a long deployment for the Vietnam War. Since its founding, the organization has helped over 1.5 million children and families stay connected through deployment. One of the hardest parts of being underway for a deployment is missing the important events in a child's life. Children can have an equally challenging time coping with the absence of their parent. United Through Reading allows children to hear their parent's voice periodically as they read stories together. Aboard Gettysburg, Sailors can read a children's book while being recorded. This provides read aloud opportunities for families, easing the strain of deployment and strengthening family connections. "It is such a good feeling to be a part of this program," said Gettysburg's Chaplain Justin Top, project coordinator. "Opportunities for our Sailors to interact with their families should be seized." The project will continue throughout deployment allowing Sailors to keep ties home strong. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS Gettysburg (CG 64), visit www.navy.mil/local/cg64/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-11. Chaplain of the Year Award Presented to Lt. Cmdr. Frank Riley By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mike James, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Reserve Officers Association (ROA) awarded the Chaplain of the Year at the ROA National Security Symposium in Washington, D.C., Aug. 8. Lt. Cmdr. E. Frank Riley was selected from seven nominees from both the active and Reserve components for contribution to the welfare, morale, and effectiveness of the military reserve services. "I am stunned and humbled and I feel like I'm being given one of the largest honors of my life," said Riley. "I am just very grateful to the people that allowed me to be a chaplain and care for them." Riley served as chaplain to Navy Central Command Afghanistan Mobile Support Team from August 2012 to May 2013, helping him stand out as top candidate. Riley was tasked with the mission to care for more than 2,500 Individually Augmented Sailors across Afghanistan, traveling more than 30,000 miles around the country. "I love being able to work with American service members," said Riley. "The difference they're making for the country and their willingness to stand in harm's way. There's something amazing, for example standing on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier and looking around at all those young people who have made that pledge to give their life for their country, I mean where else can you witness something like that?" Riley traveled extensively during his deployment to Afghanistan. "We traveled from the largest bases to the smallest [Forwarding Operating Bases]," said Riley. "I was joking around one day when we visited a Special Operations compound that only God, Special Forces and Taliban knew where we were; and even then it was doubtful that all of them knew." "It was such an amazing experience, constantly just these divine appointments, being at the right place at the right time, and being able to make difference in people's lives," said Riley. Riley is currently assigned to Navy Operational Support Center, Los Angeles and has volunteered to mobilize this fall to serve as the chaplain for Navy Mobilization Processing Site San Diego. "From junior enlisted to senior officers, we're all human and we all need care, and that's one of the beautiful things about being a chaplain, what a priveledge," said Riley. For more news from the Chaplain Corps, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/crb/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130810-01. NMCB 3 Deploys to Pacific From Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs Office PORT HUENEME, Calif. (NNS) -- More than 220 Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 homeported at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, departed for a six-month deployment to the Pacific Region, Aug. 6. The group will arrive in advance of the battalion's main body to assume control of office spaces, equipment and ongoing projects. According to NMCB 3's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Gordon Meek, the deployment will allow NMCB 3 to continue strengthening vital relationships critical to peace and stability in the Pacific. "Each NMCB 3 Seabee is a U.S. ambassador and our Seabees understand their mission," said Meek. "We complete high quality general engineering and construction projects in order to increase the capabilities of the host nation. During the six-month construction process, our Seabees will develop positive relationships that set the stage for the next 20 years. What an awesome privilege." One of the first battalions commissioned at the start of World War II, NMCB-3's legacy stands strong in its ability to build and fight anywhere in the world. The team deploys as either a full battalion or as a group of autonomous detachments that simultaneously complete critical engineering and construction missions. "I just tell my kids he has to work," said Autumn Featherkile, a mother of four who is 34 weeks pregnant. "They are getting old enough where I can tell them what he does in the military. They seem to understand and are very proud." For this deployment, NMCB 3 will split into 9 groups to perform critical construction projects in remote island areas such as Timor-Leste, Tonga, Cambodia and the Philippines. The teams will also conduct operations in Atsugi, Yokosuka and Okinawa, Japan; Chinhea, South Korea and China Lake, Calif. The Naval Construction Force is a vital component of the U.S. Maritime Strategy. They provide deployable battalions capable of providing disaster preparation and recovery support, humanitarian assistance and combat operations support. NMCB 3 provides combatant commanders and Navy component commanders with combat-ready warfighters capable of general engineering, construction and limited combat engineering across the full range of military operations. For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb3/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-22. Women at Sea: Lincoln Sailors Form Association for Females in the Navy By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ellen E. Long, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- Female Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) formed the first Women at Sea association and hosted their first meeting for the command, Aug. 7. The first meeting opened up a forum for the attendees to introduce topics for future meetings and featured a question-and-answer session with Lt. Cmdr. Ingrid Hoden and Lt. j.g. James Lessard, the ship's primary care physicians. "I encourage all female Sailors to get involved with this program," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Shayla Horne. "If you need female advice or have any issues at work, Women at Sea is the place to be." The meeting began with opening remarks from Lt. Jessica Woody, primary officer mentor for the group, about why she helped to form this association for female Sailors. "We thought it would be a good idea to give some of the girls a place where they can talk about issues that they might be a little afraid to talk to their chain of command about," said Woody. "This is an opportunity to give them more personal mentorship then what they were getting out to sea." Over 30 Sailors attended the initial meeting and introduced themselves and spoke about their experiences in the Navy thus far. "I feel like this group will be great to be involved in," said Operations Specialist 3rd Class Centraya Kenny. "As a junior Sailor and single mother, this group will give me the mentorship I need. I recommend this group to everyone." According to Woody, the Lincoln's Women at Sea association will meet twice monthly and as further opportunities develop they will meet more frequently. Woody further discussed future goals for the association adding that plans for recreational activities or volunteer opportunities in the local community are avenues of interest the association is considering. "You may not know the extent of your full potential until you talk to someone who's been there before," said Woody. "We want to get people in touch with one another without it being frightening." For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn72/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130810-02. NMCB 3 Prepares to Make 'Significant Difference' in Timor-Leste By Steelworker 3rd Class Calvin Johnson, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs DILI, Timor-Leste (NNS) -- Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 officially relieved NMCB 5 of all duties and project activities during a change of charge ceremony Aug. 9 held at Camp Lenhoff in Dili, Timor-Leste. According to the detachment's Officer-in-Charge Navy LT. Brent Oglesby, NMCB 3 is focused on strengthening the relationship between the U.S. and the Timorese through humanitarian construction projects and community relations activities. "My Seabees and I could not be more excited to be here in Timor-Leste," said Olgesby. "We have been blessed with an opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of the Timorese and their nation - we intend to make the most of it." During the six-month deployment, the Seabees will rehabilitate two primary school buildings to include new roofing, doors, windows, general repairs, construct a latrine facility, kitchen and build fencing. NMCB 3 will also assist in the construction of a rock jetty to be used to the Timorese Maritime Police Unit. Lastly, they will provide subject matter experts to assess the condition and make repairs to several community medical clinics, and work with the Timor-Leste Defense Force (F-FDTL) engineers through the Australian-led Defense Cooperation Program (DCP) designed to mutually enhance the skills of the Seabees and the F-FDTL. "Our Seabees' professionalism, their model civilian-military relations, and their all-American humor and 'can do' spirit makes the best impression wherever they go," said U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste Judith Fergin. One of the first battalions commissioned after the bombing at Pearl Harbor, NMCB 3's legacy stands strong in its ability to build and fight anywhere in the world as either a full battalion or as a group of autonomous detachments, simultaneously completing critical engineering and construction missions. "I feel this deployment will be the most rewarding because of all the opportunities to work with so many other organizations to provide better schools and welfare for the community," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Kayann Dukes. For this deployment, NMCB 3 has split into 9 detachments to perform critical construction projects in remote island areas such as Timor-Leste, Tonga, Cambodia and the Philippines. The teams will also conduct operations in Atsugi, Yokosuka and Okinawa, Japan; Chinhea, South Korea and China Lake, Calif. The Naval Construction Force is a vital component of the U.S. Maritime Strategy. They provide deployable battalions capable of providing disaster preparation and recovery support, humanitarian assistance and combat operations support. NMCB 3 provides combatant commanders and Navy component commanders with combat-ready warfighters capable of general engineering, construction and limited combat engineering across the full range of military operations. For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb3/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130810-08. USS Gettysburg Hosts Ambassador to France By Ensign Kiley Provenzano, USS Gettysburg Public Affairs MARSEILLES, France (NNS) -- Guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) hosted United States Ambassador to France and Monaco Charles Rivkin Aug. 6 during a port visit to Marseille, France. Rivkin toured Gettysburg's engineering spaces, mess decks, and combat information center (CIC), which showcased the capabilities of a fully-equipped, modern cruiser. "When we operate in theater, the opportunity to meet the individuals we support is always welcome," says Chief Operations Specialists Laurence Walton, leading chief petty officer in CIC. "Showing them our capabilities and what we bring to the table allows both of us to do our jobs more efficiently." Gettysburg was joined in Marseilles by aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Gettysburg is deployed as part of Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. For more news from USS Gettysburg (CG 64), visit www.navy.mil/local/cg64/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-20. Pacific Fleet Master Chief Visits Paul Hamilton By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amanda Dunford, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Pacific Fleet Master Chief Marco Ramirez, visited the USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) to talk with officers, midshipmen and enlisted members about Fleet priorities for the Pacific region Aug. 8. Ramirez took the time to thank Sailors for their performance, following the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer's 277-day deployment, and talk with them about concerns of the Navy. "I wanted to welcome them home since they're one of the finest warships we have in the Navy and here on this waterfront," said Ramirez. "I wanted to come and talk to their Sailors and thank them for what they did, and also deliver my commander's mission to them." Ramirez visited the wardroom and talked with midshipmen, offering them advice and stressed the importance of communication in a division. "Every time I have a problem and I have to go deal with it, it's a lack of communication and nine times out of ten it's from a divisional leader. And what makes the best division is communication from that LPO, chief and division officer, the leadership triad," said Ramirez. "At the end of the day, you talk, between the triad, about what you did well, what you did badly and what you could have done, and you do this every day." Quartermaster 3rd Class Keith Woodcock was among various Sailors who attended the E-6 and below all-hands call with Ramirez. The open discussion forum allowed Ramirez to talk with Sailors about their role in warfighting readiness, advancing regional partnerships and alliances, and purposeful forward presence. "It's beneficial to see Fleet on the deckplates because it boosts moral, said Woodcock. "This was a great opportunity for anyone to ask questions; not every ship gets the chance to have a Fleet Master Chief visit their ship." Ramirez also discussed the current culture of the Navy during the all hands call. He talked about the importance of Sailor's responsibility for themselves as well as their Sailors and the Navy's intolerance of sexual assault and its effects it has on the Navy and the value of Sailors and their families. "In these times, sailors wonder what's going on and their families and civilians as well," said Ramirez. "But I want them to know that they're valued, and that's what my commander brings back is that they are valued and there is high-level people that are working really hard to get them the right things." For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cpf/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-23. USS Nicholas Returns Home for the Final Time By By Ltjg. Christina M. Gibson, Command, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet Public Affairs USS Nicholas (FFG 47) Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) returned to Naval Station Norfolk today, marking the successful completion of her final six-month deployment. The ship deployed on Jan. 20 of this year and traveled to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility where she supported Maritime Security and Counter-Piracy operations, promoted theater security cooperation efforts and conducted missions in support of Operation Active Endeavor, Operation Ocean Shield and Exercise FRUKUS 2013 with the British, French and Russian navies. On Feb. 13, Nicholas transited the Suez Canal, entering the Arabian Sea where she spent the next five months conducting maritime security operations. "Ninety percent of international cargo is moved by ship," said Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Cory Blaser. "Conducting counter-piracy operations and establishing a presence helps to ensure safety and freedom of navigation which is critical to the world's economy." While in the region, Nicholas provided assistance to the cargo bulk carrier M/V Atlantic Confident, who suffered an engineering casualty that led to the vessel taking on water. Additionally Nicholas filled escort duties for two U.S. submarines; conducting four Suez Canal transits. The crew made port calls in Djibouti, Djibouti; Muscat, Oman; and Manama, Bahrain, where they enjoyed liberty, conducted maintenance on the ship and participated in community relations projects. In the Mediterranean Sea, the crew participated in the coalition exercise FRUKUS 2013- conducting live-fire gunnery exercises, rescue-at-sea, divisional tactics and Non-Combatant Evacuation exercises, crew exchanges and port visits with maritime partner nations, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Blaser said exercises such as FRUKUS 2013 further the Navy's goals of interoperability among coalition partners and provide valuable training for the crew. "Moving forward and working together makes all nations better prepared to meet the maritime challenges of the third millennium," said Blaser. Nicholas is named for Samuel V. Nicholas (1774-1790), the first officer commissioned in the Continental Naval Service, 28 November 1775 as Captain of the Marines. The ship is slated to be decommissioned in spring 2014. For more information on USS Nicholas, please visit their official website: http://www.nicholas.navy.mil/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-21. Third Fleet Hosts Seattle Disaster Response Seminar By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice William Blees, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest SEATTLE (NNS) -- U.S. Third Fleet (C3F), Navy Region Northwest, local agencies and government officials gathered for the second annual Pacific Northwest Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) seminar Aug. 2. DSCA draws from existing warfighting capabilities of the Armed Forces for operations in the homeland supporting local, state, and federal agencies during natural disasters or crises. Representatives attended from the city of Seattle, King County, Pierce County, Washington State Emergency Management Division (EMD) and National Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, Canadian Navy, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Department of Health and Human Services. DSCA includes support for pre-planned National Special Security Events and response to imminent or no-notice events like wildfires, hurricanes, and earthquakes. "Events like this allow for relationships to be established pre-disaster. They help us understand local and state needs so the Navy can support the community during a catastrophic disaster," said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stansfield, C3F DSCA Planner. During the seminar, participants formed into five cross-functional working groups. These groups included beach landing location and support, route opening and debris clearance, maritime route opening and debris clearance, DoD medical integration, and mass care. "We are all responsible" said Sue Bush, Director of Emergency Management for Department of Social and Health Services. "There's a scope of government responsibility and that's what we're all here about." During the event, the leaders of each working group presented what they discovered to be the key elements to disaster relief within their field. "We're expecting we're going to have a very difficult time making sense of anything the first three days," said Jim Hutchinson, catastrophic incident planner for Washington. "People aren't going to have the capability to let us know what's going on right away." During lunch, keynote speaker Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Dubie, deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), spoke about the importance of support from the civilian sector. "We cannot do what the American people need us to do with DSCA without all of you," said Dubie as he addressed the crowd. "We work together so when we have a problem we know who to talk to." The seminar concluded with a senior leader's discussion panel, which included representatives from the Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Washington Army and Air National Guard, FEMA, state of Washington, city of Seattle, and OEM. This seminar is one of a series held annually to foster relationships, improve communication, and advance planning between key regional stakeholders for potential crises or natural disasters. The next DSCA seminar is scheduled for Oct. 9-10 hosted by the City of San Francisco. Joint interagency and international relationships strengthen U.S. Third Fleet's ability to respond to crises and protect the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners. For more news from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c3f/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-10. Naval Chaplaincy School and Center Graduates Newest Members of Navy's Religious Ministry Team By Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Carla Barry, Naval Chaplaincy School and Center Public Affairs COLUMBIA, S.C. (NNS) -- More than 30 Religious Program Specialists (RPs) graduated from the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center (NCSC) at Fort Jackson, Aug. 9. These specialists provide chaplains with the administrative, technical and logistical support needed to carry out religious programs and services. They are also charged with safeguarding chaplains - who are noncombatants and not authorized to bear arms. Trained as combatants, one of the RP's essential duties is to protect chaplains. Religious Program Specialist Seaman Margaret Stafford said the training has readied her for the fleet. "When I get to the fleet I'll be ready to provide religious ministry support to Sailors and Marines, my new command's religious program and to the chaplain," said Stafford. According to Honor Graduate Religious Program Specialist Seaman Michael Calhoon the training fit his style of learning and was crucial preparing him for the fleet. "The training was invaluable. I received computer based instruction, instructor lead training, and hands on training," said Calhoon. "The different teaching methods have prepared me for what's to come. My favorite part of the training was how to rig and unrig the religious services. Different faiths and denominations have different ceremonial elements which need to be ready for each religious service." Guest speaker Master Chief Religious Program Specialist Dino Medler, the RP community's senior enlisted leader, said he was optimistic that the graduates would have success in the Navy. "Our fleet religious ministry teams need you to always be committed to excellence," he said. "Remember that you bring a specific set of knowledge, skills, and abilities that no other Sailor possesses." Medler also explained the expectations that he and the RP community had for the graduates. "Consider the needs of others before your own. Provide empathy and support when needed, engage in clear communication, celebrate diversity and respect what each individual brings to the team," he said. "The quickest way to handicap your new religious ministry team is to function as an individual. I'm asking you to operate within the frame work of a team; to act in cooperation with others to produce a combined result that is greater than the sum of your separate efforts." Chaplain Capt. Kyle Fauntleroy, the center's commanding officer, said NCSC is committed to strengthening the nation's future by training, developing and inspiring Religious Program Specialists. "At NCSC we cultivate the character of our students to be ethically, intellectually, professionally and physically prepared to serve their country and humanity, and to uphold the long maritime heritage and proud accomplishments of the United States Navy," he said. For more news from the Chaplain Corps, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/crb/. For information about the Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, visit https://www.netc.navy.mil/centers/chaplain/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-06. Submarine Group 7 Sailors and Organizations Around the World Participate in SMASHEX By By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (EXW) Sebastian McCormack, Commander, Submarine Group 7 Public Affairs FLEET ACTIVITIES YOKOSUKA, Japan - (NNS) -- Sailors from Submarine Group 7 and organizations around the world participated in a Search for Simulated Submarine Casualty Exercise (SMASHEX) at Fleet Activities Yokosuka Aug. 7-8. SMASHEX is a table top exercise to test procedures and practices required in the very unlikely event of a submarine search, escape and rescue. Several external groups participated in the exercise including; the International Submarine Escape and Rescue Liaison Office (ISMERLO), Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), the U.S. Navy Undersea Rescue Command (URC), and Submarine Squadron 11 (SUBRON 11). Several countries including Australia, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the Republic of Korea monitored and actively participated in the exercise via the ISMERLO website. "The time-critical nature of a submarine rescue means that large rescue and logistical organizations have to be created on short notice," said Capt. Dave Osen, commanding officer of Naval Reserve Undersea Warfare Operations detachment alpha. "A request for assistance may need to be sent to several countries so that a variety of rescue assets can be assembled quickly." ISMERLO is an international organization focused on humanitarian objectives and dedicated to saving lives at sea. It aims to ensure coordination in the event of a submarine accident that will lead to increased efficiency and thus save more lives. It also provides "Real-Time" systems to coordinate sub rescue response via website, www.ismerlo.org. "Over 40 countries in the world have submarines," said Osen. "The U.S. Navy tries to maintain friendly relations with most of those countries. Submarine rescue is a way to do that. It's a way to show kind of a spirit of cooperation with another country that has submarines." "One country might not be able to perform the rescue operation by itself and everyone will help if asked," said Osen. "International submarine rescue exercises provide the opportunity for more open dialog between nations, and get more ideas from more people." The exercise puts Sailors in a self training environment and helps them develop watch stander familiarity with submarine rescue procedures and publications. It also gives them the opportunity to familiarize themselves with ISMERLO processes and website. "ISMERLO is a good repository of information about details about submarines and submarine rescue systems around the world," said Osen. "During a disaster, there's obviously a lot of coordination that needs to happen in a very short period of time and much of that coordination happens on the ISMERLO website." The site displays the status of rescue systems and whether they're in operation or not. Depending on where the disaster is, it has calculators to help determine how to get the particular rescue assets or any other kind of support assets to the disaster, how long it will take to get there and what support assets need to be arranged in order to get the rescue asset to where the disaster happened. There are chat rooms on it for sharing information and status boards about last known locations or areas of uncertainty. "Different nations use different assets and techniques, and information sharing is a major part of the exercises," said Osen. The exercise helps Sailors understand coordination required for search and rescue operations and evaluate watch team's capabilities to provide accurate and timely information to outside agencies and nations, including working with the media. "International exercises provide the opportunity to work with our submarine rescue partners," said Osen. No single country can be the answer, everyone needs everyone." "Submarine rescue is important to theater security cooperation for the submarine force because the mission is completely unclassified and it is a humanitarian mission," said Osen. "It's all about saving lives in a short period of time. In the end, all submariners have a common bond. We care about each other's lives. It's hard to envision a scenario where a submarine rescue would only be by one country. There are several countries that have submarine rescue assets and they will all come together to do the rescue." Every submarine operating authority is required to do a SMASHEX once a year. For more news from Commander Submarine Group 7, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg7/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130809-05. USS George Washington Wraps up Midshipman Summer Cruise Training By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Benjamin K. Kittleson CORAL SEA (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) served host to 78 future officers from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and Navy Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) units from colleges and universities across America, through three at-sea training phases, June 26 to Aug. 12. Each phase of midshipmen training encompassed approximately two to three weeks aboard the ship, and introduced the participants to all aspects of work and shipboard life. "There is a great deal of preparation that goes into planning the midshipmen training cruises because it is a command-wide evolution that involves every department," said Lt. Nick Long, USS George Washington's training officer. "Many departments are necessary for providing 'running mates,' correct berthing, wardrooms and messing so they are able to train, sleep and eat without having any issues." Each midshipman is assigned a "running mate" as they board the ship and begin their phase of training. Running mates are enlisted and commissioned leaders within their respective career field aboard the ship. The running mate's primary responsibility is to ensure midshipmen get a good idea of what they can expect while working in the surface warfare officer (SWO) community. "I want to be a SWO," said Midshipman Morgan Witten, a Virginia Tech ROTC participant from Toms River, N.J. "There's a good chance I'll be in the navigation department. The ship's assistant navigator is my running mate and has helped me determine the direction I'd like to go as an officer when I graduate." Each midshipman embarks on a training cruise with a certain set of expectations, and many find that their perspective has been changed since leaving the classroom for the operational Fleet. "I think the big thing for me was to come to a carrier and see all of the different departments like engineering, deck, and others," said U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman 1st Class Max Allen, from Chesterfield, Va. "We learn about these things at the Academy, through our different warfare classes, but being able to see them in action is really eye opening." It's important to stay on schedule when executing summer cruise training. With more than 70 scheduled events to cover in less than three weeks, the midshipmen and ship's crew have to stay on task in order to cover every aspect of training within the time allotted. "One thing this phase [of training] was able to do, that the two previous groups were not, was to experience a port visit (Brisbane, Australia)," said Long. "It was nice, but kind of cut into their training time. If I had it to do again, I'd shorten the port visit portion so that they could maximize their underway time." Whether these midshipmen will graduate soon, or this was just the first of several training cruises, they are all able to take away valuable memories of their time aboard George Washington. "It's been interesting for me to see how organized everything has to be in order to move the jets and other equipment around the flight deck and hangar bays behind the scenes," said Allen. "It's also impressive to hear the communication that has to occur between the aircraft and the personnel manning primary flight control; understanding just how many people have to do their job correctly in order to get aircraft on and off the ship successfully every day." George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. For more news from USS George Washington (CVN 73), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn73/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130810-03. Reserve Sailors Champion Visitor Experience By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class (AW) Tim Comerford, Naval History and Heritage Command Communication Outreach Division WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Reservists from around the country have converged on Washington Navy Yard to show off naval history to the public as the public enjoys increased access to the Display Ship Barry, the Cold War Gallery and the National Museum of the U.S. Navy Aug. 13. The public has benefit by the temporary opening of an extra entrance to the historic venues from the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, and extending the Barry's publicly accessible dates and times, through the month of August. The nine reserve Sailors came to Navy History and Heritage Command and immediately got to work. "They went through two days of indoctrination," said Lt. Drew Perciballi, Officer in Charge of Display Ship Barry. Perciballi and his crew told them of their expectations and then took them on a guided tour of the ship. "They could ask all the questions they wanted about the ship," said Perciballi. "Then, we walked them through a technical tour to show them the nitty-gritty of watch standing on the ship." By standing security watches on Display Ship Barry, the Sailors help to extend the hours that the ship is open to the public and also answer questions for the visitors. The reservists are not only standing watch on Barry, they fulfill many other missions for NHHC also. "We are providing tours, force protection for the museum and help in watch rotations so that we can provide more access through the [Anacostia Riverwalk Trail]," said reserve Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Christopher Thornton. Thornton was excited to be a part of the NHHC and Barry team and it was new experience for him. "I have never done anything like this before but it is a great opportunity to represent the Navy," explained Thornton. "It is different but it's amazing. We have met a lot of the public and talked about the Navy, we have learned a lot about the Navy's history. It is good for us to brush-up on our own heritage and why we serve our country. I really enjoy the involvement in the community and learning about the Navy's history." He was amazed that Washington Navy Yard held so many antiquities. "It was surprising, I didn't know anything about the museums on the Washington Navy Yard," Thornton said. "I really enjoyed visiting the museums and learning how we played such a pivotal role in the shaping of our country. I learned a lot about the admirals and Sailors who contributed to the Navy and country's growth." The work that these Sailors are doing has not gone unnoticed either. Jennifer Marland, National Museum of the United States Navy curator, has helped to train the reservists in the history of the museum and says that they have made a big impact on the visitors. "I think they are doing a wonderful job and our visitors have really enjoyed the opportunity to interact with a Sailor," Marland said. "Many of our visitors have never met a Sailor before they come here. This is a chance to ask a Sailor to tell them about their adventures at sea." With the entrance from Barry to the museums open, she thinks the reservists are helping more people come to museum as well. "Our mission is to be able to share with the public the great history of our United States Navy," Marland said. "By having easier access to the Navy museums and to the Display Ship Barry, it has enabled us to increase the number of people who can come and share in the museum." For more information on the National Museum, Cold War Gallery and the Display ship Barry visit www.history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm. For more news from Naval History and Heritage Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navhist/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-01. Truman Bids "Au Revoir" To Marseille By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dion Dawson, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Public Affairs MEDITERRANEAN SEA (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) departed Marseille, France, Aug. 9 after successfully completing its scheduled port visit. "The trip was fantastic," said Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Donald Novak, Harry S. Truman's command master chief. "It was great to see everyone returning to the ship excited about everything they did. The Sailors are still talking about it. Overall, the Sailors did a great job with the mission of overseas liberty." Novak extended gratitude to the host country and hoped to visit again. "We want to thank the great city of Marseille, and we look forward to future port visits to this beautiful city," he said. While in Marseille, Sailors participated in various city tours, community outreach projects and more events. "I think we had a tremendous port visit in Marseille, and I believe community outreach projects were a big part of that," Chaplain (Lt.) Richard Smothers, Command Chaplain of Carrier Air Wing 3. "The spirit of volunteerism around the ship is appreciated. It is so motivating when I see how many people want to give back and participate in community outreach programs. It makes me feel proud to know the team we have here can see the big picture." Smothers said he had a great time and pointed to a particular community outreach for the root of his happiness. "On Aug. 8, we had the opportunity to go to La Crysalide Centre, which is a center for physically and mentally handicapped residents in Marseille," said Smothers. "There were over 100 residents and staff who attended. Our gospel choir provided a concert for them and fellowshipped with everyone. We were able to share gifts with one another. The big gift was being able to bless the people of Marseille. We really appreciated it, and they were a most gracious host." Smothers said being in another country for the first time could cause a bit of a culture shock, but the transition for everyone was seamless. "We had the great opportunity to meet new people in a lot of different ways and have amazing cross-cultural learning experiences," Smothers said. "I think it was a total win for Team Truman and Team Battle Axe." While some Sailors and Marines participated in community outreach, others attended tours arranged by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Division. "For those who participated with the tours, I saw them having a good time and relaxing," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Paul Reading, MWR Division leading petty officer. "France was great because the people who've never been there experience it, and you have people who've been there before go to their favorite restaurants or even travel to Paris." Reading said he went on the French Riviera tour and appreciated it even more, considering how fast everything came together. "I don't think everyone understands how fast we had to put the MWR events together for this port," said Reading. "We had less than two weeks to plan and implement our strategy for Marseille. With the limited time we had to get everything done, I think everything went great." Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) Airman (SW) Rashaad Porter, a member of Air Department's V-4 quality assurance work center, participated in a sporting event with the locals, playing American football. "It was nice to put smiles on their faces and enjoy each other's company," said Porter. "I feel like everything was worth it. I will always remember how amazing this port visit was. I would go back in a heartbeat." While in the Mediterranean Sea, HST CSG will be supporting maritime security operations (MSO) and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. MSO are set conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-04. Bonhomme Richard ARG Conducts CERTEX By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jerome D. Johnson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk CORAL SEA (NNS) -- Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) began Certification Exercise (CERTEX), Aug. 7. CERTEX is an event focusing on the 31st MEU's capability of doing missions such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations or non-combatant evacuation operations with the ARG. "Every MEU goes through a work up cycle prior to deployment which is usually conducted over months of training back in the states, and is culminated during their CERTEX before they deploy," said Cmdr. Kirk Knox, Bonhomme Richards' operations officer. "Even though the majority of the focus is on the MEU this is a team effort. The MEU cannot accomplish their tasks if we fail to provide them the support they need." Bonhomme Richard ARG is made up of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), which is the command ship for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, as well as the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) and amphibious transport dock USS Denver (LPD 9). Bonhomme Richard provides a platform at sea enabling the MEU to carry out visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercises and helicopter raids. The Marines of the MEU will also conduct a combat rubber raiding craft operations (CRRC) from the ship's well deck. "We will launch, recover, and spot aircraft to support the 31st MEU during CERTEX," said Lt. John Zahodne, Bonhomme Richards' aircraft handler. "During this exercise we are required to operate at a higher operational tempo." During CERTEX, Royal Australian Regiment officers, who are from an exchange program to develop officers, will observe the evolutions. In 2014 Australia will receive and deploy two of their own amphibious assault ships. "The exchange program allows us gain experience from the U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy on how to conduct amphibious operations," said Maj. Alexander Rubin, Royal Australian Regiment 2nd Battalion detachment officer-in-charge. "We are invigorating our amphibious capability. The idea is to get ahead of the curb in developing our own program. We are grateful for this opportunity and hope that during the next Talisman Saber we can perform amphibious operations side-by-side with Bonhomme Richard." The exercise will test the two forces' ability to execute several evolutions including small boat operations, helicopter and amphibious operations, mass casualty response drills and a non-combatant evacuation operation. Each of these evolutions involves transporting equipment and personnel to designated locations. "At the end of the day, we are ultimately responsible for the safe movement of the 31st MEU's vehicles and cargo to and from the battle space," said Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Alvarez, Bonhomme Richards' 1st Lieutenant. "While on deployment the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) element of Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7 integrates with Deck Department and Combat Cargo, as we share working spaces and combine our efforts to execute BHR's ship-to-shore mission." The U.S. and Australia have a long established bilateral partnership which is an essential part of maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. Navy also contributes to the freedom of navigation in the territorial waters and airspace of coastal nations, which supports economic development and international commerce. Commander Amphibious Squadron ELEVEN, 31st MEU and Bonhomme Richard ARG report to Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130811-08. Norfolk Tides Host Navy Night By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Dominique J. Shelton, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Norfolk Tides hosted the 6th annual Navy Night, honoring Sailors serving worldwide, Aug. 10, at Harbor Park in Norfolk Va. "Every one of these events is special because it represents a milestone in someone's life," said Capt. Robert Geis, commanding officer, Naval Air Station Oceana. "But what I find most special about events like this is it allows people who don't have any military affiliation the opportunity to get to know our service members better." The opening ceremony included first pitches simultaneously thrown by honorees Rear Admiral Dixon Smith, Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA), Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Norris, guided-missile cruiser USS Porter (DDG 78) Blue Jacket of the Year, Petty Officer 1st Class Alberto Zarate from Coastal Riverine Group Two Training and Evaluation Unit, Mrs. Christina Lara, CNRMA ombusdman, military spouse of the year. Other pre-game events included an enlistment ceremony, the parading of colors by the Naval Station Norfolk Color Guard, a musical selection and the national anthem played by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band, and a military dog demonstration presented by CNRMA military working dog unit. "I enjoy coming to these events because the Navy has become my family away from family over the years," said Lara, "And who doesn't love a good old family outing?" As part of this annual event, the Tides have incorporated a special digital camouflage-styled uniform as a salute to the military. "It's always a great feeling whenever we play on this special day," said Jonathan Schoop, Norfolk Tides third baseman. "It just feels really good to be able to give back to the people who sacrifice so much for so many others." The Tides played the Rochester Red Wings, the second game in a four game series. With the support of more than 10,000 cheering fans, Schoop drove home Chris Dickerson with a two-out single in the bottom of the 12th inning, winning the game for the Tides 3-2. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS020712-03. This Day in Naval History - Aug. 11 From the Navy News Service 1812 - USS Constitution captures and destroys brig Lady Warren. 1877 - Professor Asaph Hall of Naval Observatory discovers first of two satellites of Mars. He found the second one within a week. 1921 - Carrier arresting gear first tested at Hampton Roads. 1960 - USNS Longview (T-AGM 3), using Navy helicopters and frogmen, recovers a Discover satellite capsule after 17 orbits. This is first recovery of U.S. satellite from orbit. For more information on naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil. -USN- -USN- -USN- Navy News Service is the official news wire service of the U.S. Navy, containing stories recently posted to the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. It is a product of the Defense Media Navy - 6700 Taylor Rd., Fort Meade, MD 20755. Reprints should be credited to the Navy News Service (NNS). For the latest in Navy news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil. For all Navy-related questions, review the FAQs posted at www.navy.mil or visit www.history.navy.mil. Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342. -USN-   Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact support@govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Navy. Navy News Service is the official news wire service of the U.S. Navy containing stories recently posted to the Navy web site at www.navy.mil. It is a product of the Defense Media Activity - Navy, 6700 Taylor Ave, Fort Meade, MD 20755. Reprints should be credited to the Navy News Service (NNS).