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 NNS130830-04. Department of the Navy Prepares to Face New Challenges -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76285 NNS130831-04. U.S. Navy, Australian Defence Force Recover and Dispose of Jettisoned Ordnance -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76302 NNS130902-05. Northwest Chief Selects Graduate CPO Legacy Academy -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76307 NNS130902-03. SEACAT 2013 Exercise Builds Multilateral Cooperation in Maritime Southeast Asia -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76306 NNS130830-09. SECNAV Names Next Director of NCIS -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76289 NNS130831-01. Bonhomme Richard ARG, 31st MEU Kick Off Exercise Koolendong -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76297 NNS130830-17. International Marine Task Force Embarks Dutch Ship for Africa Partnership Station -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76282 NNS130902-04. USS Denver Returns to Darwin, Australia -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76313 NNS130831-05. Bonhomme Richard Departs Darwin -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76299 DNU -- Headlines for Friday, August 30th: In today's edition of All Hands Update, we give you the dates for your September enlisted advancement exams. Also, September is Navy Suicide Prevention Month. We'll tell you where you can go if you or a shipmate needs help. -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18802 NNS130902-09. Haney Hosts Fleet Adm. Nimitz's Grandsons -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76312 NNS130902-06. Chiefs, Selectees Kick Off Bremerton Blackberry 5K -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76308 NNS130901-01. Shizuoka Prefectural Government Combined Disaster Response Drill Improves U.S. - Japan Readiness -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76303 NNS130831-03. COMNAVAIRPAC Recognizes GW Engineer's Outstanding Performance -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76301 NNS130902-02. Celebrity Chefs Depart Truman After Food-Filled Visit -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76305 NNS130902-01. Lincoln Chiefs-Select March on Washington -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76304 NNS130830-16. SPAWAR Receives Department of Navy Award at Small Business Event -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76277 NNS130830-15. Naval Hospital Jacksonville Connects New Mom and Baby with Dad at Sea -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76292 NNS130902-07. Professors School USS Boxer on Regional Security -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76309 NNS130830-12. Ike Celebrates Women's Equality Day -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76290 NNS130830-11. New Submarine Squadron Commodore in Groton -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76288 NNS130830-07. Naval Base San Diego holds Change of Command Ceremony -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76276 DNU -- Week in Review August 24th - 30th 2013 -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18803 NNS130830-06. Chicago Visits Stirling during Western Pacific Deployment -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76278 NNS130830-05. NMCB 3 CCAD Timor-Leste Provides Clean Water to Disabled Youth Home -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76240 NNS130830-03. NMCB 3 CCAD Chinhae Increase Capabilities with ROK Engineers -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76283 NNS130830-01. Navy Releases Final Environmental Impact Statements for At-Sea Training and Testing Activities -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76280 NNS130830-19. USS Wayne E. Meyer Holds Change of Command -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76296 NNS130902-11. Current All Hands Update -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76281 NNS020724-03. This Day in Naval History - Sept. 02 -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=2776 Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day -- http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=160674 -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-04. Department of the Navy Prepares to Face New Challenges By Defense Media Activity - Navy WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus today directed the office of the Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy/Deputy Chief Management Officer (DUSN/DCMO) to begin a comprehensive assessment of the business challenges facing the Navy and Marine Corps. He also instructed the offices of the DUSN/DCMO to begin developing a plan to address the multiple budgetary and resource challenges currently facing the Department of the Navy. "This is about bringing real change to our department," said Mabus. "This will ensure that the Navy and Marine Corps team remains the most effective and efficient expeditionary fighting force the world has ever known." "We've faced these challenges in the past," said newly-appointed DUSN/DCMO Tom Hicks, former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy. "But, to me, what's different now is that the scale is different and the stakes are higher." As the Navy and Marine Corps continue to adapt to an evolving fiscal and global environment after more than a decade of sustained conflict, they face a series of new challenges. "We don't have a choice," said Hicks. "We have to be out in front on this. The fiscal resources are very constrained and that's not something that's going to end anytime soon. It is, however, something that comes with the opportunity to really think, strategically, about how we conduct the business of the Department of the Navy in a way that maintains and protects the mission." "What's paramount," Hicks said, "is being able to accomplish the mission and being able to do so in a way that responds to the realities of the resources we have." Hicks, and those working in the office of the DUSN/DCMO, were selected to address possible areas of improvement in the business practices of the Department of the Navy due to a proven ability to drive change and the office's position within the department's organization. "His (Hicks's) leadership as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy and his entire career have proven Mr. Hicks's innovative vision and capacity to drive organizational change, exactly the credentials and mission for the DUSN/DCMO," said Mabus. Hicks looks forward to the task ahead. "We need to look at this as an opportunity to become the most efficient organization we can be in order to accomplish the mission when we're called upon," said Hicks. "Fiscal challenges put a strain on, for example, how, where and when we train. That's something we have to make sure doesn't happen again and, through this effort, I think we can ensure that it doesn't," Hicks said. "What this means for Sailors and Marines is that they will be able to do more of what we've actually asked them to do." Mabus directed the DUSN/DCMO to focus on the Secretary of the Navy priorities of people, platforms, power and partnerships in accomplishing several specific tasks including: - Developing and implementing a vision for large-scale Department of the Navy transformation to include clear goals and performance assessments. - Resolving the Department of the Navy's most pressing and complex business challenges. - Identifying opportunities to shape and position the Department of the Navy to meet future budget and resource challenges. An initial business transformation plan, an assessment of the Department's biggest challenges, and a plan of action and milestones to include a plan for reshaping the Department of the Navy as part of a 20-percent headquarters manpower reduction are due to the Secretary of the Navy within 90 days. While Hicks will head this drive to improve the Department of the Navy's business practices, the initiative will require the efforts of the entire organization. "My goal is to do this in a way that it is a collaborative effort across the Department of the Navy to identify opportunities for efficiencies, financial savings and staff savings," said Hicks. "This is a proactive chance for us to be able to position ourselves to be able to conduct the Department's missions in the future." For more news from the Secretary of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/secnav/ or www.facebook.com/SecretaryoftheNavy. For more news from Secretary of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/secnav/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130831-04. U.S. Navy, Australian Defence Force Recover and Dispose of Jettisoned Ordnance From U.S. Seventh Fleet Public Affairs SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy and Australian Defense Force (ADF) successfully recovered and disposed of the live ordnance emergency-jettisoned by two AV-8B Harrier aircraft on July 16 off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The two inert and two unarmed live rounds were located by Royal Australian Navy minehunter HMAS Gascoyne on August 16. The two unarmed live rounds were retrieved by divers from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) Five Aug 29 and 30, using lift balloons to bring the ordnance safely to the water surface, after which they were transported to the approved Triangular Island ordnance demolition area and destroyed. In conducting the retrieval Seventh Fleet coordinated closely with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) and ADF to ensure the environment was protected with the greatest care. No immediate environmental damage was seen during either the search or recovery of the ordnance and GBRMPA officers will continue to monitor the area. With agreement from the GBRMPA, the two inert rounds, which are cement-filled training facsimiles of the real ordnance, were left on the sandy bottom floor due to difficult diving conditions. They pose no danger to the environment. Inert ordnance is a cement filled training device that resembles actual ordnance but does not have explosives, electronics, propellant or fusing mechanisms. Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Chairman Russell Reichelt said he was pleased at the successful outcome of the operation and the strong and rapid response by both the Australian and US defence teams. "I am very grateful for the extensive effort that the Australian and U.S. defence personnel have put into finding and retrieving the ordnance so quickly and for the cautious approach they've taken," he said. "There's been a high level of cooperation between our agency, the ADF and the US Navy throughout this operation. Survey images confirm the ordnance landed on a sandy bottom, well away from coral and any sensitive habitat. "Our personnel will continue to monitor the area in the coming days for any potential impacts following the recovery and disposal part of the operation. Two unarmed pieces of ordnance were disposed of safely at an existing defence training beach using well-established procedures approved by GBRMPA for detonations. We supported the U.S. Navy's decision to leave the inert rounds on the seafloor due to the challenging and potentially unsafe diving conditions - these devices are not actual ordnance and pose no risk to people or the environment, as they are simply made of steel filled with concrete," said Reichelt. U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeff Bleich congratulated the joint U.S. Navy and Australian Defence Force teams on this effort. "Americans join Australians in commending our joint forces in successfully removing and disposing of this training ordnance. One of the reasons we train is to ensure that -- even in an emergency situation -- we take care to protect sensitive environments. Our forces demonstrated precisely that approach first by jettisoning the ordnance away from sensitive locations, and then by safely retrieving the live ordnance so quickly and responsibly," said Bleich. ADF Chief of Joint Operations, Lieutenant General Ash Power also said he was pleased with the success of the operation. "Each step of this operation has demonstrated the successful working relationship between the USN, ADF and GBRMPA. The United States and Royal Australian Navy's should be congratulated on the successful recovery and disposal of the ordnance, while ensuring that all environmental and safety requirements were met," said LTGEN Power. The recovery and disposal was a joint effort that included assets from the US Navy Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit Five, airlift provided by the US Air Force, search assets from the RAN, and observers from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. "This successful joint operation demonstrates our commitment to the environment, close working relationship with our Australian allies, and full cooperation with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority," said Vice Admiral Robert Thomas, Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet. Photos of the recovery can be found at: http://www.navy.mil/view_image.asp?id=160790 http://www.navy.mil/view_image.asp?id=160789 http://www.navy.mil/view_image.asp?id=160788 -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-05. Northwest Chief Selects Graduate CPO Legacy Academy By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chris Brown, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- Thirty chief petty officer (CPO) selectees from naval installations throughout the Pacific Northwest graduated from the second annual USS Turner Joy CPO Legacy Academy, Aug 30. Class 002 boarded museum USS Turner Joy Aug. 25 to spend a week living, working and training aboard the Vietnam-era warship along with a group of CPO mentors. "Over the course of the week you put aside your normal life routine and your sometimes hectic work schedules to work together as a collaborative group and bring the good ship Turner Joy back to life," said Navy Region Northwest Command Master Chief (SS) Brian Schell, guest speaker for the graduating class. Sailors performed daily upkeep and maintenance on the ship and participated in multiple community relations projects. "This was a dream week," said Chief (select) Machinist's Mate (SS/SW) Jon Parker, assigned to the Ohio-class fleet ballistic missile submarine USS Nebraska (SSBN 739), blue crew. "We learned so much about the Navy and what it means to be a chief petty officer in the Navy." The group of CPO mentors provided leadership and training on naval history as well as the heritage of the CPO community. "We do this to bring back the heritage, bring back what the past Sailors and chiefs have done for us to bring us to where we are today," said Senior Chief Culinary Specialist (SS) Kingsley Van Duzer, CPO Legacy Academy Director. "We want to make sure we never forget who we are and where we come from." During the ceremony Schell emphasized the importance of becoming a new CPO to the CPO selects. "You will always be held to a higher standard as a chief petty officer," said Schell. "Our goal this week was to instill ... a sense of pride and camaraderie and it is our hope that you apply the lessons you have learned here to the CPO messes you will join on the September 13th. I promise you, you will not be disappointed with the results." For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwpacen/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-03. SEACAT 2013 Exercise Builds Multilateral Cooperation in Maritime Southeast Asia By Logistics Group Western Pacific Public Affairs CHANGI NAVAL BASE, Singapore (NNS) -- The 11th annual Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT) exercise commenced Sept. 2, with navy liaison officers from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States tracking vessels of interest in a multilateral maritime interdiction scenario. SEACAT highlights the value of information sharing and multilateral cooperation in scenarios that give participating navies hands-on practice in maritime security operations. Two weeks of training events include both a command post exercise (CPX) at the Multinational Operations and Exercise Center at Singapore's Changi Naval Base and a field training exercise (FTX) that takes place in several regional locations at sea. "As a well-established training venue among a growing number of multilateral exercises in Southeast Asia, SEACAT is a model for how regional navies can share best practices and work together to address maritime security concerns including piracy, smuggling and other transnational crimes at sea," said Rear Adm. Cindy Thebaud, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific (COMLOG WESTPAC) and 7th Fleet's executive agent for SEACAT. The CPX and FTX facilitate information sharing between shore, air and sea-based sensors in a challenging tracking, evaluation and boarding scenario. At sea, various U.S. ships will serve as simulated vessels of interest, and will be tracked by watchstanders on land, at sea, and in the air. Shore-based radars and maritime patrol aircraft from participating nations will pass information to the multinational watchfloor, where liaison officers will develop boarding plans. Ships from participating navies will then intercept and board vessels of interest. On the U.S. side, the littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1) will conduct several boarding events with its embarked 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) teams. "SEACAT goes a long way toward building maritime capacity and enhancing interoperability among all seven participating navies," said Capt. Paul Schlise, commander, Task Group 73.1/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7. "We look forward to opportunities like SEACAT to work together in a multilateral scenario that puts our watchstanders through their paces." SEACAT, which began in 2002 under the name "Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism," was renamed in 2012 exercise to expand the scope of training among regional navies. Participating U.S. forces include staff from Commander, Task Group 73.1/DESRON 7, the littoral combat ship USS Freedom (LCS 1), the dry cargo ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9), the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) and a P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft. For more news from Commander, Task Force 73, visit www.navy.mil/local/ctf73/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-09. SECNAV Names Next Director of NCIS By Defense Media Activity - Navy WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus today named Andrew Traver as the next director of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). "Andrew Traver is absolutely the right person to lead the NCIS," said Mabus. "His strong law enforcement background and experience make him the ideal choice to guide NCIS in preventing and solving crimes and helping to counter those who would do us harm. As a former Naval officer, he understands the Navy and Marine Corps and the evolving security issues we face today." Traver began his career with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in 1987 as a special agent in the Chicago Field Division, where he served for approximately five years. He went on to leadership positions throughout the United States, including group supervisor in Philadelphia, Resident Agent in Charge of the Camden, New Jersey, Field Office, Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) of the New Orleans Field Division, ASAC of the San Francisco Field Division, and Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago and Denver Field Divisions. Prior to joining the ATF, Traver served as a surface warfare officer aboard USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG 22). He also served at duty stations in Newport, R.I., Coronado and San Diego, Calif., and in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. NCIS is a federal law enforcement agency that protects and defends the U.S. Department of the Navy against terrorism and foreign intelligence threats, investigates major criminal offenses and provides law enforcement and security services to the Navy and Marine Corps on a worldwide basis. The agency is comprised of approximately 2,500 total employees, including 1,250 civilian special agents, in more than 150 locations around the world. For more news from Naval Criminal Investigative Service, visit www.navy.mil/local/ncis/. For more news from the Secretary of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/secnav/ or www.facebook.com/SecretaryoftheNavy. For more news from Secretary of the Navy, visit www.navy.mil/local/secnav/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130831-01. Bonhomme Richard ARG, 31st MEU Kick Off Exercise Koolendong By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Edward Guttierrez III DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived here Aug. 28 to participate in Exercise Koolendong 2013 (KD 13), a bilateral exercise taking place at the Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA) in Australia's Northern Territory. KD13 will be conducted with the 5th Royal Australian Regiment and the Marine Rotational Force - Darwin to assess the future suitability of BFTA as a viable site for holding live-fire exercises for battalion-sized units of 1,000 personnel. "Marine Corps forces currently stationed in Japan do not have access to a range complex that allows for the fire and maneuver of battalion sized elements," said Marine Capt. Michael Allen, Combat Cargo officer for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11. "This exercise is important because it validates BFTA as a live fire and maneuver range for those Marines as well as the Australian Defense Force." The exercise plans to incorporate day and night live-fire operations including light and heavy machine guns, mortars, and artillery, as well as aviation ordnance to be delivered by AV-8B Harriers. MV-22 Ospreys, UH-1Y Hueys, and CH-53E Super Stallions embarked on forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) will provide assault troop transport and support from the sea. "KD13 also allows the ARG/MEU to exercise their ability to execute a ship to shore to objective maneuver," said Allen, "showcasing the capability that amphibious forces have with regards to providing a rapid response to a contingency, a rapid buildup of combat power, and the ability to project that combat power over the horizon to achieve strategic and operational goals" The Bonhomme Richard ARG, commanded by PHIBRON 11, is currently participating in Exercise Koolendong with the 31st MEU. For more news about PHIBRON 11, or the Bonhomme Richard ARG, please visit: www.facebook.com/#!/PHIBRON11 http://www.cpr11.navy.mil/ www.dvidshub.net/unit/PHIBRON11 www.cpf.navy.mil www.c7f.navy.mil For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-17. International Marine Task Force Embarks Dutch Ship for Africa Partnership Station From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs ROTA, Spain (NNS) -- An international task force of Marines embarked the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) landing platform dock HNLMS Rotterdam (L800) as part of a 3-month comprehensive effort to strengthen capabilities with African partner forces in West Africa on Aug. 30. The ship and combined security cooperation task force, comprised of U.S., U.K., Spanish and Dutch Marines, will conduct practical application exercises in security techniques and tactics alongside forces from partner nations Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon and Benin. The combined military engagements stem from the Africa Partnership Station (APS) program. APS, established in 2007, is an international security cooperation initiative aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa. Rotterdam, which left its homeport of Den Helder, Netherlands on Aug. 25, is supporting Africa Partnership Station under a companion capacity program called "African Winds." Sailors of Rotterdam will work with African partners to build capabilities in maritime activities such as visit, board, search and seizure, maritime operations center planning and execution, and small boat operations. The security cooperation task force will work with African ground forces to conduct amphibious landings and exchange best practices in infantry tactics. U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa sees the work of Rotterdam as an extension of the international collaboration that is APS. "We are thankful for the U.S.-Dutch partnership, as well as the involvement of the U.K. and Spanish Marines, and our African partners as we collaboratively seek to enhance the security environment in Africa," said Rear Adm. (Select) John B. Nowell, Jr., U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Resources, and Plans. "African navies have made great strides to increase their maritime capabilities and this iteration of APS sets the stage to further sharpen those skills." Dutch senior leadership equally recognizes how vital the series of engagements will be to capability enhancements of African participants. This is second time the Royal Netherlands Navy has contributed a major Naval asset to APS, the first being the landing platform dock (LPD) ship HNLM Johan De Witt (L801) in the Fall of 2009. "The Royal Netherlands Navy recognizes the US AFRICOM APS program as the most effective way of gradually improving the West African maritime security environment. Working alongside and together with African partner nations is to our mutual benefit," said Royal Netherlands Marine Corps Col. Frederik R. Swart, Commander of Netherland Landing Forces participating in the APS program. "Also working with an international Marine Task Force enhances interoperability among all coalition forces involved." Participants from other forces also see the benefit of the combined engagements. "The U.K. sees this engagement as an excellent opportunity to contribute to the security of the West African maritime environment and to conduct some valuable cross training with African partners and members of the combined security cooperation task force," said Royal Marines Maj. Anthony Liva, officer in command of the Royal Marines Whiskey Company of the 45 Commando, embarked on HNLMS Rotterdam. "Training will be progressive and focused; I have no doubt that every nation involved in this initiative will benefit immensely." Africa Partnership Station and partner efforts like African Winds are inspired by the belief that effective maritime security and safety will contribute to the development, economic prosperity and security ashore within Africa. For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-04. USS Denver Returns to Darwin, Australia By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- Amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Darwin, Australia, Sept. 3, for the second time in less than two weeks. Denver's first visit to Darwin was a working port visit where the crew conducted an offload of a large part of the 31st MEU and their equipment as they prepared to start Exercise Koolendong at the Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA). This visit follows another working port visit in Dili, Timor-Leste, but this time Darwin will be primarily a liberty port for the crew. Sailors and Marines will have an opportunity to participate in community service projects and enjoy some much earned personal time. "It's going to be good. I'm excited." said Lance Cpl. Dillon Nichols, assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 31, attached to the 31st MEU. "I want to eat something that's not ship food, hang out and walk around on dry land." Denver is on patrol with the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, commanded by Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, and is currently participating in Exercise Koolendong with the 31st MEU. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130831-05. Bonhomme Richard Departs Darwin By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew Dickinson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed Darwin, Australia Aug. 31. Bonhomme Richard is in Darwin as part of Exercise Koolendong 2013 (KD 13), a bilateral exercise taking place at the Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA) in Australia's Northern Territory. "We are looking forward to continuing training with one of our closest allies in the region during KD 13," said USS Bonhomme Richard Commanding Officer Capt. Daniel Dusek. "This visit not only demonstrates the United States commitment to the region, but also provides a great opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of the people of Darwin." While in port Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines conducted an offload of 31st MEU Marines and equipment in preparation for KD 13, as well as participated in various community service projects, sporting events. One of the community service projects that BHR participated in was an after school activity with Girls Engagement Mentoring and Support (GEMS), a program offering extracurricular and sporting activities to girls after school, to encourage them to remain in school until graduation from 12th Grade. Sailors and Marines answered questions about life in the Navy and Marine Corps, lead the girls in calisthenics, and then played a friendly game of dodge ball. "It's important for Sailors and Marines to remember that we are members of society, not just members of the Navy." Commander William Muhm, Bonhomme Richard's chaplain said. "We're in the military for a limited period of time, but we will be members of society all our lives. "Community service project events are good for us, because they bring into contact with people we normally would not see; children, the elderly, and the sick." BHR also had a friendly game of Rugby with the Charles Darwin University Pirates, and the Union Club Darwin Dragons at Rugby Grounds at Marrara Sporting Complex. "We always have fun with some barbecue and some drinks afterward as well as trading jerseys and much more," Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Michael Barbosa, a member of the BHR Rugby team, said. "It's not about a win or a loss, it's about connecting with foreign countries and meeting on common ground." The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, commanded by Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, is currently participating in Exercise Koolendong with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-09. Haney Hosts Fleet Adm. Nimitz's Grandsons By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Kolmel, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Adm. Cecil D. Haney, the 33rd commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet, hosted the grandsons of the leader who defined that job seven decades ago, Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, on Aug. 30. Nimitz served as the Commander in Chief for U.S. Pacific Fleet from Dec. 31, 1941 to Nov. 24, 1945. Chester Nimitz Lay and his brother Richard Lay, along with their wives Marion and Jean respectively, toured the headquarters building where Fleet Adm. Nimitz worked and the house he lived in during World War II. Haney took the opportunity to learn more about the man who directed the Navy's war effort in the Pacific and who signed the Instrument of Surrender as the U.S. representative. "We shared personal insights on a legendary warrior who was so instrumental to our victory in the Pacific, and whose legacy we proudly preserve in the Fleet today," Haney said. For the Lay family it was memorable experience to see where their grandfather worked and lived during World War II. They also saw photos, personal effects, and paintings that they had never seen before. "It was a wonderful experience to see where my grandfather spent the first half of the war and see the memorabilia," said Chester Nimitz Lay. "Also, having lunch in the Nimitz house with Adm. Haney was a great experience as well." During the Lays' first visit to Hawaii, they attended a ceremony, Sept. 2, to commemorate the anniversary of the formal conclusion of World War II on the pier adjacent to the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Following the ceremony, a nine-foot bronze statue of their grandfather was unveiled. The statue depicts Fleet Adm. Nimitz as he appeared at the battle of the Marshall Islands in February 1944. "I continue to be humbled by the opportunity to sail in Adm. Nimitz's wake as U.S. Pacific Fleet commander and feel even more closely connected after having spent time with his descendants," Haney added. For more news from Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cpf/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-06. Chiefs, Selectees Kick Off Bremerton Blackberry 5K By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Jamie Hawkins, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- More than 100 chief petty officers (CPO) and CPO selects, assigned to commands within Navy Region Northwest, participated in the 24th annual Bremerton Blackberry Festival's 5-kilometer run, Aug. 31. Bremerton's Blackberry Festival is a three-day event in which the local community comes to the city for concerts, local sights, and to participate in the annual running events. "For the last few years the regional chiefs and chief selectees come together for the annual Blackberry Festival run," said Chief Hull Maintenance Technician Chris Surman, assigned to Naval Intermediate Maintenance Facility, Bangor. "This shows the local community that we as Chiefs are a part of and support them." Along with starting the festival with a formation run, the CPO and CPO selects raised money to be donated back to the community. "The cities along the Puget Sound carry on a rich naval history, and events like this gives our chief community a chance to demonstrate unity throughout the Chiefs mess and the region," said Chief (Select) Hospital Corpsman Oscar Baldevia, assigned to Naval Hospital Bremerton. "Our goal is to prove to the current chiefs that we are worthy to join the mess and show off some naval pride to the community as well." Retired Chief Gunner's Mate Arthur Kaine said the CPO selects participating in the Blackberry Festival Fun Run does just as much for the mess as it does the community. "I served in the mess for over nine years, and I lost count of how many kilometers I've run in events like this," said Kaine. "This Fun Run will bring the new CPOs closer to each other as brothers and sisters and make all the CPO community stronger." Prior to the run, the newly selected chiefs recited the Sailor's Creed and sang "Anchors Aweigh" for fellow runners and festival goers. CPO selects are Sailors undergoing Phase II of CPO 365 before assuming the duties and responsibilities of a CPO Sept. 13. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwpacen/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130901-01. Shizuoka Prefectural Government Combined Disaster Response Drill Improves U.S. - Japan Readiness By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam K. Thomas, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Japan Public Affairs Office FUJI CITY, Japan (NNS) -- U.S. Army, Navy and Marine forces in conjunction with Japan Self-Defense Forces and local Japanese agencies participated in the Shizuoka Prefectural Government (SPG) annual disaster drill Sept. 1. During the drill, U.S. Armed Forces joined first responders from SPG, Japan Self-Defense Forces, Fuji and Fujinomiya cities to respond to a simulated 8.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami with the goal of achieving a high level of proficiency in responding to disasters as part of a joint task force. "U.S. Forces are taking part in the SPG Annual Disaster Drill today to demonstrate what assistance the U.S. military can provide to the prefectural government in the event of a natural disaster," said Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan, Plans and Studies Officer, Theodore Shaw. "It's also an excellent opportunity to showcase the U.S. Navy's desire to increase and improve interoperability with local community emergency services," he said. Also during the drill, U.S. forces provided several air assets including an MH-60R helicopter from the "Warlords" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 forward deployed to Atsugi, a U.S. Army UH-60A Black Hawk helicopter assigned to the 78th Aviation Battalion and a U.S. Marine Corps fixed wing C-130 from Futenma to assist in the evacuation and transportation of simulated casualties and humanitarian assistant survey teams. As the drill progressed, disaster response team members worked in close proximity to learn and share invaluable techniques and communication skills they will later use in the event of a real emergency. "These exercises also provide a great opportunity for the local population to come out and see the beneficial support the U.S. military can provide and how well we operate in conjunction with the local emergency first responders," said Shaw. For more news from Commander, Naval Forces Japan, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnfj/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130831-03. COMNAVAIRPAC Recognizes GW Engineer's Outstanding Performance By Lt. Cmdr. James Stockman, USS George Washington (CVN 73) Public Affairs YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- A Sailor stationed aboard the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) was announced as Commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet's (COMNAVAIRPAC) Engineer of the Quarter Q2 2013, Aug. 29. Senior Chief Machinist's Mate Andrew Frederick, propulsion leading chief petty officer, earned the COMNAVAIRPAC Engineer of the Quarter Award over four other highly-competitive nominees based on his contributions to force readiness. "Senior Chief Frederick's superb deckplate leadership, unsurpassed technical expertise, and relentless dedication to Sailors exemplify this outstanding Sailor," said Vice Adm. David Buss, commander, Naval Air Forces, in a U.S. Navy message. "His relentless dedication to subordinate development and sailorization ensures propulsion department's continued success and George Washington's mission readiness." Frederick attributes this award and all his division's successes to the diverse Sailors who work for him. "Winning this award shows that despite the mixture of personnel in my division, their performance, attitude and desire to succeed is always at a high level," said Frederick. "Each of them does their part day in and day out. Throughout a very stressful and hectic inspection cycle, they maintained an excellent attitude and always got the job done." George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing Five, provide a combat-ready force that supports and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. For more photos and stories, visit us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/USS-George-Washington-CVN-73/177732872397 For more news from USS George Washington (CVN 73), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn73/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-02. Celebrity Chefs Depart Truman After Food-Filled Visit By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dion Dawson, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs GULF OF OMAN (NNS) -- Three celebrity chefs concluded a visit to the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Aug. 31. The three-day event, hosted by Navy Entertainment, included Blue Moon Cafe's Sarah Simington, Salsa Brava's Mike Conley and Hodad's Mike Hardin. The chefs, collectively known as the "Mess Lords", have been featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives." During the visit, the chefs trained Harry S. Truman and USS Gettysburg (CG 64) culinary specialists in cooking techniques and prepared specialty dishes for the crew. While the purpose of their visit was primarily for the morale of the crew, the chefs also enjoyed themselves and appreciated the opportunity. "It feels amazing to be here visiting and cooking for the Sailors and Marines on the Truman," said Sarah Simington while on board. "It's an honor and a privilege. Our armed forces give so much, so we should do something for them. In a sense, I am serving the men and women serving my country when I do events like this," she said. Simington said there might be hard times when away from home, so events like this are important for morale. "I am sure service members get frustrated at times because they miss home and can't see their loved ones, so things like this event are important," she said. "We want to bring a taste of home to the ship and let them know we support them and can't wait until they come home safely." The main event of the visit was a cook-off Aug. 30 during which each chef led a team of culinary specialists as they competed against each other to create dishes from a pre-assigned list of ingredients-chicken, rice and carrots. Two of the teams were comprised of Harry S. Truman culinary specialists and a third team was comprised of culinary specialists from Gettysburg. The Gettysburg team, coached by John Conley, won the cook-off. According to the culinary specialists, they enjoyed the competition as well as the visit from the chefs. "I can't believe I got the chance to meet and train under three celebrity chefs," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Hunter Haines, a cook in S-2 division's forward galley. "We learned different cooking techniques, seasoning tips and advice on baking. Things like this mean so much to me. They took time out of their busy schedules to come see us and make our days better. They understand the importance of our mission and showed support from the moment they stepped foot on the ship. I had a blast." Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is supporting maritime security operations (MSO), theater security cooperation efforts and supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-01. Lincoln Chiefs-Select March on Washington By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Strickland, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief Petty Officers and Chief Petty Officers-Select from Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) learned about their nation's heritage during an all-day tour and march through the Washington, Aug. 29. The 42 present and future Chiefs started their day learning about the ship's namesake at the Lincoln Cottage. Located on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH), the cottage is where Lincoln is said to have spent as much as one-fourth of his presidency. According to the cottage's staff, Lincoln wrote the order freeing slaves in Washington from the cottage a few months before The Emancipation Proclamation Jan. 1, 1863. "It was amazing to me that a really simple man could make such a big difference," said Chief (select) Electrician's Mate Jose Garabis. While touring the cottage, tour guides encouraged discussion about Lincoln's presidency. "I was impressed with how the bravery of one man changed the course of our country," Chief (select) Aviation Boatswain's Mate Toby Shoemaker said. The Lincoln Cottage and AFRH are about three miles away from downtown, which appealed to Lincoln, as well as retirees living on the grounds then and now. After touring the cottage, the group marched across the grounds to AFRH, where they ate lunch with military retirees in the newly-opened Gen. Winfred Scott Center. "It was a real honor to share lunch with some former warriors," said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Clint Cook. "The guy I sat with was Frank. He was a B-52 gunner and very cool." After lunch, it was off to the memorial of the ship's namesake. The selectees marched up to the Lincoln Memorial one day after Civil Rights Era dignitaries joined former President Bill Clinton in remembering the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington that featured Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech. "What (Lincoln) did back then and what Dr. King did 50 years ago led to our president today," Chief (select) Master-at-Arms William Matteson said. Singing naval heritage cadences and marching across the National Mall, the group was routinely photographed and talked to by tourists from around the world on a sultry summer Thursday. They stopped and paid respects at the Korean War Memorial and the World War II Memorial before signing "Anchors Aweigh" in front of the White House. "I was very proud to be representing the Lincoln today," Chief (select) Aviation Ordnanceman Terrence Parks said. The final stop of the day may have been the most poignant, though. The Chiefs and Chief selects formed up into a company to witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown at Arlington Memorial Cemetery. "I couldn't get over how precise their movements were," said Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate Ronnie Padilla. "It was something to watch." To cap of the final stop, the Chiefs and Chief-selects paid tribute to former Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Delbert Black, who is interred at Arlington. USS Abraham Lincoln is currently undergoing refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries. Lincoln is the fifth ship of the Nimitz class to undergo an RCOH, a major life-cycle milestone. Once RCOH is complete, Lincoln will be one of the most modern and technologically advanced Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the fleet and will continue to be a vital part of the nation's defense. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn72/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-16. SPAWAR Receives Department of Navy Award at Small Business Event By Ashley Nekoui, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) participated in the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Navy Gold Coast Small Business Procurement Event, Aug. 26-28, at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego. "Gold Coast" provides a forum to educate, guide, and assist businesses, especially small businesses, in working with the government, primarily the Department of Defense. Sean Crean, director of the Navy's Office of Small Business Programs, presented Rear Adm. Patrick Brady, commander of Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), with a Secretary of the Navy Cup, in recognition of SPAWAR's role in promoting acquisition opportunities for small businesses. During the three-day event, Brady, Pat Sullivan, executive director of SPAWAR, and Capt. Joe Beel, commanding officer of Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific (SSC Pacific), provided presentations to attendees, highlighting SPAWAR's role as the Navy's Information Dominance Systems Command, and its mission to develop, deliver and sustain communications and information capabilities for warfighters, anytime and anywhere. Brady noted that SPAWAR's priorities are to keep the fleet ready to fight and to deliver on major acquisition programs. During his presentation, he shared programs anticipated for delivery this year, including the Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services, which will provide reliable standardized upgrades to communications throughout the fleet; the Next Generation Enterprise Network, which will replace the Navy's current ashore communications network; and the Mobile User Objective System, the Navy's narrowband satellite program, which launched its second satellite into orbit July 19. Beel reiterated Brady's focus points and highlighted the rebalance to the Pacific that is underway and SSC Pacific's prime position in supporting this shift with offices in San Diego, Hawaii, Guam, and Japan. In addition, Beel pointed out to potential collaborators that as a competency-aligned organization, SSC Pacific aligns their business portfolios with customer demand. SPAWAR's participation in event supports an outreach program established by the Defense Acquisition Regulation System to identify and develop established interested small businesses that can support SPAWAR programs. For more news from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/spawar/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-15. Naval Hospital Jacksonville Connects New Mom and Baby with Dad at Sea By Yan Kennon, Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public Affairs Senior Writer JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Jacksonville connects new mom and hours-old baby with deployed dad, more than 5,000 miles away aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Life as a Navy spouse, whose husband is deployed, can be tough and lonely. Add childbirth to the equation and times just got a little more trying. Navy spouse Brandie Conniff was going through this exact scenario, until Naval Hospital (NH) Jacksonville, and its "Baby Friendly" certified staff took action. Conniff, a native of Ellwood City, Pa. and first-time mom, has been a patient of NH Jacksonville since conceiving late 2012. "There was a very good possibility for my husband and I to be together during the birth of our first child," said Conniff. "But due to the rescheduling of my husband's deployment, the timing didn't work and left us with the reality that it would be more than six months before dad could see or hold our baby." At approximately 1:30 a.m. Aug, 29 Conniff gave birth to a healthy 8-pound, 3-ounce baby boy, Boaz Travis Conniff, and later that day was able to show their bundle of joy to her husband, Lt. Cmdr. Shawn (Fingers) Conniff, a helicopter pilot assigned to Naval Station Mayport's Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 74 "Swamp Foxes", via video teleconference direct from her room. Lt. Cmdr. Conniff is currently deployed aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as part of an ongoing rotation of forward-deployed forces to support maritime security operations (MSO) in the U.S. 6th and 5th Fleet areas of operations. But on this day, the new father laid eyes on his son for the first time. NH Jacksonville provides a variety of comfort features to its patients, but connecting to a deployed U.S. warship without Wi-Fi presented a unique challenge for the hospital staff. "Because communication applications such as Skype were not available aboard the ship, I inquired about the possibilities of a video teleconference to the hospital staff," said Conniff. "The hospital staff determined that the main obstacle would be video bandwidth capabilities of the ship while at sea. The [hospital] staff went above and beyond to collaborate with the ship and make this happen for us, and I am truly thankful." Conniff praised the hospital staff for the job it has done with preparing her for motherhood and the care she has received since conception. "It was a blessing to receive care from a 'Baby Friendly' hospital," said Conniff. "My experiences included prepared childbirth and breastfeeding classes free of charge, which is nice compared to friends who spent more than $300 hundred for similar classes. The teachers were so caring, nurturing and informative, that they eased my fear of bearing my first child. The doctors have been great, and the hospital staff has been so considerate of my needs and concerns. This whole experience has been awesome." NH Jacksonville is currently one of only 166 Baby Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the U.S., certified by Baby Friendly USA-a global initiative sponsored by WHO/UNICEF. The Baby Friendly designation is awarded after a rigorous on-site survey is completed, and maintained by continuing to practice 10 crucial program elements. The comprehensive program includes initiating breastfeeding in the first hour of life, "rooming-in" with moms and babies in the same room, educating staff and patients, and fostering breastfeeding support groups. Throughout the year, NH Jacksonville offers a wide range of classes free-of-charge to patients giving birth at its hospital-including baby boot camp, new parent orientation, prenatal exercise, Hypnobirthing, infant massage, breastfeeding and prepared childbirth. Plus, the hospital's private labor/delivery and maternal/infant suites offer couplet care (with mom and baby rooming together), breast pumps, breastfeeding counseling from lactation nurses, "siesta for the fiesta" daily quiet time to support feeding, newborn hearing screening, and an educational "newborn channel" on television. Dads are welcome to stay the night and visiting hours are around-the-clock. NH Jacksonville patients can register for free classes by calling 904-542-2229 (BABY). To learn more about the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (administered in the U.S. by Baby Friendly USA), visit www.babyfriendlyusa.org. NH Jacksonville's priority since its founding in 1941 is to heal the nation's heroes and their families. The command is comprised of the Navy's third largest hospital and five branch health clinics across Florida and Georgia. Of its patient population-about 163,000 active and retired Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, National Guardsmen and their families-more than 57,000 are enrolled with a primary care manager at one of its facilities. To find out more, visit www.med.navy.mil/sites/NavalHospitalJax. For more news from Naval Hospital Jacksonville, visit www.navy.mil/local/nhjax/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130902-07. Professors School USS Boxer on Regional Security By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joe Bishop, Boxer Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- A small team of professors from Naval Postgraduate School in Monterrey, Calif. came aboard the deployed amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) to train the crew with their Regional Security Education Program (RSEP) from Aug. 25th to Aug. 29th. After the October 2000 USS Cole attack, the former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Vern Clark initiated the program to educate Sailors on pertinent cultural facts and social structures that they may encounter during deployment. Sailors receive graduate-level lectures from subject-matter experts on regional conflicts occurring within Boxer's area of operation. The program was established to help educate ship leaders so they are better prepared to confront multiple security challenges while at sea. "There was a DoD [Department of Defense] investigation that looked into some of the factors that went into al-Qaida's successful attack against USS Cole," said Navy Postgraduate School Professor Mark Huber. "RSEP was brought to life in the aftermath of the attack." The visiting professors spent five days presenting lectures to dozens of Sailors and Marines. "The primary audience is the senior leadership, the strike group admiral, the commodore for the ARG [Amphibious Ready Group], and his or her staff, generally E-7 and above," said Huber, a retired Navy helicopter pilot. "But because we also have regional experts onboard, they are able to provide cultural awareness to all hands." The enlisted personnel who were present during the lectures appreciated the opportunity to learn about cultures and people they may come into contact with during deployment. "I was really excited to find out professors from the Naval Postgraduate School were coming onboard to give Marines and Sailors presentations about different countries in the region we'll be near during deployment," said Sgt. Jennifer Pirante, a combat correspondent assigned to the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. "These lectures helped improve my cultural awareness, not just about our current relationship to other countries, but the current situation in those countries." Mr. Huber believes Sailors are highly competent in their respective rates and areas of specialty, but these competencies alone are not always sufficient. There is a need to supplement Sailors' knowledge with information about the people they will be dealing with and the places they will be working in. "The primary goal is to enable better-informed decision-making," said Huber. "Not everyone brings regional expertise to his or her job. Here on this ship you have to have a lot of other competencies and skill sets; but we need to marry that up with some foundational regional knowledge in order to make good decisions in context." The professors with RSEP aim to instill cultural awareness needed to preserve good relations with longtime friendly regions, as well as provide a basic foundation for Sailors to be educated, international travelers. "Our international partners matter, and to have a strong relationship with our partners we need this Amphibious Ready Group to arrive on scene with an understanding of what those challenges are, and to be well informed," said Huber. For more news from USS Boxer (LHD 4), visit www.facebook.com/ussboxer and www.navy.mil/local/lhd4/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-12. Ike Celebrates Women's Equality Day By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jermaine M. Ralliford NORFOLK (NNS) -- USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) observed Women's Equality Day by hosting a ceremony in the ship's forecastle Aug. 30. The observance celebrated the contributions and influence of women on American and naval culture. Additionally, the event's two guest speakers-Ike's command master chief and administrative officer-reminded the assembled Sailors of the historical importance of the passage of the 19th amendment and called attention to women's continuing efforts to work to achieve full equality. Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Catie Cross said the event inspired her by showing her how far women have come, especially Sailors. "Women are more than capable of standing on equal footing with men," Cross said. "Seeing women excel in difficult technical fields and rise to higher positions is really cool." Women's Equality Day was established in 1971 to commemorate the 1920 passage of the 19th amendment to the Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. The right for women to vote and run for public office was the first major milestone of the women's rights movement since it began in the mid-nineteenth century. Since then, women have continued to actively pursue equal rights in all areas of life, socially, politically and professionally. In 1942, the Navy launched the Women Accepted for Volunteer Service (WAVES) program, which enabled women to serve in an official uniformed capacity. When the term WAVES was discontinued in 1972, it signified a recognition by the Navy that women have an inherent right to serve. Despite this progress, women still found themselves on unequal footing with their male counterparts. Ike Command Master Chief Shay Langejans said that because of the progress of the past, today the Navy is full of knowledgeable, skilled and talented Sailors, male and female alike. "When I was coming up in the Navy, there were no female admirals, commanding officers, or master chiefs," Langejans said. "Now the potential for women in today's Navy is almost unlimited." In December 2012, women in the Navy reached another milestone when two officers became the first female unrestricted line officers to qualify aboard submarines and subsequently receive their submarine warfare insignia. Eisenhower Administrative Officer Lt. Cmdr. Joyce M. Boehler said she has seen women do amazing things in the Navy, and for those Sailors who want to try new things, many opportunities exist. "[Women] can be anything," Boehler said. "There are very few job fields in the Navy we cannot do. What women are doing in the Navy today is amazing, and a complete 180 since I entered." Today more than 54,000 active duty and more than 10,000 Reserve Sailors are women. They make up more than 17 percent of the force and contribute widely to naval missions and operations. In addition, approximately 59,000 women serve in a wide range of specialties as Navy civilians. The current Navy Total Force includes 36 active and Reserve female flag officers, 67 female senior executive service members, 56 female command master chiefs, and six female command senior chiefs leading from the front. Dwight D. Eisenhower is currently in port at Naval Station Norfolk preparing for a scheduled docking planned incremental availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. For more news from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn69/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-11. New Submarine Squadron Commodore in Groton By Lt. Timothy Hawkins, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The submarine squadron that oversees about half of the Navy's 15 attack submarines based in Groton, Conn., welcomed a new commander Aug. 30 during a change of command ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London. Capt. Michael Holland transferred command of Submarine Squadron 4 to Capt. Jim Waters during a pierside ceremony on the Thames River aboard USS New Mexico (SSN 779) - one of the squadron's assigned ships that completed her maiden deployment two weeks ago. "After deploying nine different ships to two different theaters, I am grateful to all the organizations involved - from maintenance, to training, to base and family support services," said Holland. "It takes an incredible team effort and we are blessed with a great team here to keep our ships ready." Holland took over Submarine Squadron 4 in January 2012 after leading Submarine Squadron 2, which the Navy disestablished. Squadron 2 submarines were consolidated under Submarine Development Squadron 12 and Submarine Squadron 4 last year. Guest speaker Rear Adm. Rick Breckenridge, director of the Navy's Undersea Warfare Division, lauded Holland's efforts. "What stands out to me is the squadron consolidation, which allowed him to spend eight months at Squadron 2 and then 20 months at Squadron 4," said Breckenridge about Holland. "Of those two squadrons, he had the privilege of commanding 12 ships and he prepared nine of those for deployment. That's a big responsibility, yet each of those ships excelled under his tutelage and command." Holland received the Legion of Merit award for his tour. Among his notable accomplishments was USS Hartford's (SSN 768) selection as Atlantic Fleet's most improved Navy vessel in 2012. Hartford is a Los Angeles-class attack submarine assigned to Submarine Squadron 4. "To be able to take a ship and bring it to that lofty level of performance I think is a great reflection of the squadron from which that ship is assigned," said Breckenridge. "This is a centerpiece of [Holland's] tour." Holland now heads to Washington, D.C., where he will serve in the Operations Division of the Navy Budget Office. He graduated from Montana State University in 1987 and received his officer commission through Officer Candidate School in Newport, R.I. As Holland's relief, Waters has assumed responsibility for ensuring the mission readiness of Sailors assigned to two Los Angeles-class submarines, six of the Navy's nine commissioned Virginia-class submarines, and Pre-Commissioning Unit North Dakota (SSN 786) currently under construction. Waters graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1989 and completed his graduate studies at England's Oxford University in 1991. He previously served at U.S. Strategic Command as a battle watch commander in the Global Operations Center and as chief of staff for the Global Operations directorate. "I am deeply honored and humbled to stand here today having been given the privilege to serve in command once again," said Waters. "I can think of no better job than to serve the men and women of our great force." Submarine Squadron 4's mission is to equip, man and train Sailors serving aboard its submarines. For more news from Commander Submarine Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/Subgru2/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-07. Naval Base San Diego holds Change of Command Ceremony By Maile Baca, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Base San Diego held a change of command ceremony Aug. 29. Capt. Curt Jones relieved Capt. Winton Smith who has served as commanding officer since 2011. Smith is headed to serve as the executive assistant to the deputy chief of naval operations for Fleet Readiness and Logistics. The guest speaker for the ceremony was Rear Adm. Patrick J. "Boog" Lorge, commander, Navy Region Southwest. "Today is an opportunity to express our personal gratitude, formally observe a change of command, and welcome a new commanding officer as we celebrate this very special day for Winton and his family, Naval Base San Diego, the community and our Navy." During Smith's tenure, he provided service and support for 57 ships and more than 150 tenant commands. He was directly responsible for the base receiving more than 40 awards, to include the 2011 Green Gov Presidential Award. Over the past two years, Naval Base San Diego continued an aggressive "Global Force for Green" campaign to instill a culture of resource conservation which included a "Dog Zebra" program focused on educating more than 34,000 personnel who work aboard the base to reduce electrical consumption. Smith supported the Sailors and their families by driving multiple quality of life improvement projects. He promoted the completion of an 800 car parking garage and the development and ground breaking of a state-of-the-art, $63.5 million dollar housing complex for 772 Sailors. Jones, who served in Washington D.C. as the executive assistant to Vice Adm. William French, commander, Naval Installations Command, has been in the navy since June 1989. At sea, he served in a variety of leadership billets to include serving as the executive officer onboard USS Coronado (AGF 11) and the commissioning commanding officer of the USS New York (LPD 21). For more news from Naval Base San Diego, visit www.navy.mil/local/NBSD/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-06. Chicago Visits Stirling during Western Pacific Deployment By Lt. j.g. Michael Wipsman, USS Chicago Public Affairs Officer HMAS STIRLING, Australia (NNS) -- The Los Angeles class fast attack submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721) arrived at HMAS Stirling for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific Aug. 21. With a crew of approximately 135 Sailors, Chicago has been conducting a multitude of missions to showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet. "Chicago's visit to Stirling is in support of exercises with the Australian Navy to support our strong ties to the Australian submarine force, and practice our warfighting capabilities and tactics," said Cmdr. Nicholas Tilbrook, Chicago's commanding officer. "As a forward deployed asset, Chicago frequently conducts exercises with our partners and allies demonstrating our support and commitment in the region." Chicago is the first fast attack submarine to be built with a vertical launch system, enabling strike mission capability. This allows the Navy to maintain a constant forward presence capable of strategic attacks. "The months leading up to our departure from Guam, the crew worked hard to prepare for this deployment and have performed well," said Master Chief Electronics Technician Richard Marini, Chicago's chief of the boat. "All hands have maximized their time while at sea to qualify senior watch stations and gain the skill sets needed to be the men-of-wars-men we require in support of our mission of undersea warfare design. We now look forward to the opportunity to be ambassadors of our great nation and enjoy some well deserved liberty in one of the finest ports in the Pacific." For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Australia. "I'm going to enjoy a cigar and have some local Australian food," said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Hassan Mustafa. His shipmate, Electronics Technician 2nd Class Brian Cloughly added, "I'm going to go to the zoo." Fourteen crew members of the Chicago volunteered their time to help at the Cohuna Koala Park. Crew members spent the day cutting down eucalyptus leaves for the koalas and building a shed. "It is always a great opportunity to help a community out even when they are not in your home country," said Electrician's Mate Chief Scott Sayles. "It's always a great experience to provide people with a positive outlook on the U.S. Navy." Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 7,000 tons when submerged, Chicago is one of the most capable submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The Chicago is homeported in Guam, where it remains in a forward deployed state of readiness. The boat has recently completed its first cycle of national tasking and is scheduled to have a change of command this September. For more news from Commander Submarine Group 7, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg7/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-05. NMCB 3 CCAD Timor-Leste Provides Clean Water to Disabled Youth Home 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's Timor-Leste Construction Civic Action Detail (CCAD) provided 23 residents at the Ahisaun Foundation Home for physically disabled youth with clean water. Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Joseph Pica, Utilitiesman 2nd Class Juliet Wilson and Construction Electrician 3rd Class Hezekiah Morgan successfully repaired the home's degraded water filtration system, which had been providing residents with unsafe water used for drinking and cooking. According to Wilson, the volunteer repairs also served as a training opportunity, allowing the residents to care for the system long after the Seabees depart Timor-Leste. "Seeing the dirty water the residents were using for cooking and drinking made me really upset" said Wilson. "I'm so glad we were not only able to repair the system, but train some of the residents on how to prevent this from happening in the future." The team removed, cleaned and installed two micron filters to capture the water's impurities and sediments, making it safe to drink and use for cooking. Additionally, they successfully mitigated an electrical hazard by removing heavy grease that had developed on the filtration system's power outlet, and installed a 20-watt power supply to help guarantee proper operating temperatures for the filter's ultraviolet light. The ultaviolet light kills microorganisms and disinfects the water without using chemicals. Pica, CCAD Timor-Leste's medical provider, oversaw the operation and tested the water following the repairs, ensuring they were successful. "To see the Seabees in action, applying their knowledge and skills to help those in legitimate need is awesome," said Pica. "Work like this goes a long way to improving the overall health of the citizens of Timor-Leste and makes a lasting positive impression on them." The CCAD's mission is to execute engineering civic assistance projects, conduct formal training with the host nation and perform community relations events to help enhance shared capabilities and improve the country's social welfare. One of the first battalions commissioned during World War II, 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. For this deployment, NMCB 3 has split into 9 details 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; Chinhae, Republic of 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- NNS130830-03. NMCB 3 CCAD Chinhae Increase Capabilities with ROK Engineers By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey and Construction Electrician 3rd Class Parris Battle, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs CHINHAE, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3's Civic Construction Action Detail (CCAD) in Chinhae, Republic of Korea, increased capabilities and interoperability with their ROK counterparts during a 3-day construction project Aug. 24-26. Three NMCB 3 Seabees and three senior ROK engineers teamed up to install a drainage ditch along a major service road aboard Commander Fleet Activities Chinhae. The small but critical teambuilding operation was part of Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) 2013 - an annual joint forces exercise conducted across the Korean peninsula that incorporates more than 3,000 personnel from the U.S. and bases in the Pacific region. According to ROK Engineer Navy Lt. j.g. Chae Kang Wook, the event served as a positive first impression. "This is my first time working alongside Seabees," said Wook. "We utilize some of the same [construction] methods to accomplish goals when approaching a project like this. I'm impressed with how relaxed they seem and how much fun they have while still getting the job done." Despite language barriers between Seabees and some of the ROK engineers, a shared, focused work ethic united the team and aided success. "Whenever you can complete a complicated project without even speaking the same language, you know you've just experienced a wonderful thing," said NMCB 3 Builder 3rd Class Jacob Thacker. UFG is executed in support of the Republic of Korea and U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty signed Oct. 1, 1953. The exercise furthers military training and enhances the ROK military's abilities to take the lead of the combined defense of the Republic of Korea in 2015. The CCAD's mission is to execute engineering civic assistance projects, conduct formal training with the host nation, and perform community relations events to help enhance shared capabilities and improve the country's social welfare. One of the first battalions commissioned during World War II, 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. For this deployment, NMCB 3 has split into 9 details 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; Chinhae, Republic of 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- NNS130830-01. Navy Releases Final Environmental Impact Statements for At-Sea Training and Testing Activities From Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- U.S. Navy publicly released the Final Environmental Impact Statements/Overseas Environmental Impact Statements (EIS/OEISs) Aug. 30 for planned training and testing activities in the waters off the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf of Mexico, Southern California and Hawaii. The Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing (AFTT) and the Hawaii-Southern California Training and Testing (HSTT) areas, which are covered by the EIS/OEIS documents, are of vital importance as they encompass over 80 percent of the training and testing the Navy conducts worldwide. Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and Endangered Species Act (ESA) permits from environmental regulatory agencies would authorize the Navy to continue training and testing in these areas from 2014-2019. "This is a major milestone that supports the Navy's mission of operating forward to keep the global commons open and accessible while respecting the environment," said Rear Adm. Kevin Slates, director of the Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division. The final EIS/OEISs combine training and testing areas from earlier documents and consider new science, platforms and activities. Estimates of the total number of marine mammals that have the potential to be affected by Navy activities have therefore increased compared with earlier EIS documents. However, the best available science and more than 60 years of similar training and testing in these areas demonstrate that the activities proposed will continue to have minimal effects on marine mammal populations. "The Navy's analysis indicates that while large numbers of marine mammals may be affected by sonar and explosives activities, over 99.9 percent of the animals affected will experience only temporary behavioral effects that do not result in injury," said Rear Adm. Slates. The Navy released the AFTT and HSTT draft EIS/OEISs on May 11, 2012, and accepted public comments through July 10, 2012. Proposed rules from the National Marine Fisheries Service were published in the Federal Register on January 31, 2013. The AFTT and HSTT final EIS/OEISs are available for review at www.AFTTEIS.com and www.HSTTEIS.com. Hard copies of the documents are also available at local public libraries. To learn more about the Navy's energy, environment, and climate change initiatives, visit http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/home. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130830-19. USS Wayne E. Meyer Holds Change of Command From USS Wayne E. Meyer Public Affairs SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) held a change of command ceremony in the ship's homeport of San Diego, Aug. 30. During the ceremony, Cmdr. William H. Baxter turned over command of the guided missile destroyer to Cmdr. Randy J. Van Rossum, who has previously served as the ship's executive officer. The ceremony marked the end of a very successful 18-month command tour for Baxter. He is credited with leading Wayne E. Meyer through an intensive training cycle and ensured the ship is prepared for an upcoming deployment. "It has been an absolute pleasure serving our nation's finest as their captain," Baxter told the crew during the ceremony. "The crew has performed admirably and has promptly and professionally answered the call every time." Baxter said he was extremely grateful to the ship's crew, chief petty officers mess and wardroom. His next assignment will be as the head surface warfare junior officer detailer at the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Millington, Tenn. Van Rossum is a 1995 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was commissioned an ensign through officer candidate school and earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Loyola University. As part of the executive officer-commanding officer fleet-up program, Van Rossum first reported to Wayne E. Meyer in July 2012. For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/. NNS130902-11. Current All Hands Update From Defense Media Activity - Navy WASHINGTON (NNS) -- All Hands Update features one one-minute newscast today. First one-minute newscast - - Headlines for Friday, August 30, 2013: Enlistment Advancement Exams Coming Up; September is Navy Suicide Prevention Month http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18802 http://youtu.be/r3SPD9LQR4A Defense Media Activity - Navy usually produces one two-minute All Hands Update (AHU) newscast each day. AHU can be seen throughout the day and evening on the Direct-to-Sailor (DTS)satellite television service available aboard 160 ships of the fleet and via the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. Check your local DTS program schedule for air times. AHU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS). -USN- -USN- -USN- -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS020724-03. This Day in Naval History - Sept. 02 From the Navy News Service 1918 - Navy ships and crews assist earthquake victims of Yokohama and Tokyo, Japan. 1940 - Destroyer for Bases Deal agreement struck between the United States and United Kingdom. 1944 - USS Finback (SS 217) rescues Lt. j.g. George Bush, who was shot down while attacking Chichi Jima. 1945 - Japan signs surrender documents aboard USS Missouri (BB 63) at anchor in Tokyo Bay. Adm. Chester W. Nimitz signs for the United States. In different ceremonies, Japanese forces on Palau Islands, Truk, and on Pagan Island and Rota in the Marianas surrender. For more information about 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).