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 NNS130910-03. C3F Hosts Chinese CNO Counterpart Visit -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76439 NNS130910-02. Commander In Chief of People's Liberation Army (Navy) Visits USS Carl Vinson -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76438 NNS130908-07. Chinese Navy Leader to Visit San Diego -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76413 NNS130909-04. CNO Attends Annual Tailhook Banquet -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76419 NNS130909-03. UNITAS Kicks Off in Colombia -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76418 NNS130909-14. Keep What You've Earned Campaign Marks Significant decrease in Alcohol Incidents -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76427 NNS130910-01. 9-Digit ZIP Code is Key to Getting Mail -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76433 DNU -- Headlines for Monday, September 9, 2013 - In this edition of All Hands Update, the Navy commissioned it's tenth Virginia-class attack submarine, USS Minnesota, and the U.S. Naval Academy is seeking students for the Class of 2018. -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18813 NNS130910-06. From Orion to Poseidon - The MPRF way ahead -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76437 NNS130909-18. Navy RAD 'Takes Action,' Shifts to Phase III -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76435 NNS130909-05. Undersea Domain Operating Concept Approved by Chief of Naval Operations -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76420 NNS130909-06. Navy Program 'Excelerates' Alternative Energy -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76421 DNU -- Chinese Navy Ships Visit Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18814 NNS130909-08. USS Harry S. Truman Provides Medical Assistance to Canadian Sailor -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76423 NNS130909-17. Same-Sex Spouses of Military Retirees Now Eligible for Survivor Benefits Program -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76431 NNS130909-12. NMCB 3 Establishes Historic SCW Academy -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76417 NNS130909-09. Sailors and Civilians Attend "Out of the Darkness" Community Walk -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76424 NNS130910-05. Hampton Visits Association of Differently Abled Persons during Port Visit to Subic Bay -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76441 NNS130909-01. Hampton visits Subic Bay during Western Pacific Deployment -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76412 NNS130910-04. Bonhomme Richard Departs Darwin -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76442 NNS130909-11. NMCB 3 CCAD Cambodia Improves Life at Local Children's Home -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76416 DNU -- Mid-South Sailors Kicked Off Suicide Prevention Month With A Proclamation Signing and Awareness Walk -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18815 NNS130910-07. Current All Hands Update -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=76426 NNS020711-09. This Day in Naval History - Sept. 10 -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=2487 Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day -- http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=161263 -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-03. C3F Hosts Chinese CNO Counterpart Visit From Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. Third Fleet (C3F) hosted the Commander of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy [PLA(N)], Adm. Wu Shengli, and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert at C3F headquarters Sept. 9. This was the first scheduled stop during a visit to San Diego-based Pacific Fleet units. Greenert and Wu also visited USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and USS Jefferson City (SSN 759) in port before embarking USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) at sea. Wu will also visit U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton before traveling with Greenert to Washington, D.C. During the visit to C3F, Wu had an opportunity to receive an update on planning for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the world's largest international maritime exercise held biennially in and around Hawaii, from Vice Adm. Kenneth E. Floyd, Third Fleet commander, who will lead the exercise. Earlier this year, the PLA(N) accepted an invitation to participate in RIMPAC for the first time in 2014, which will include more than 20 nations. "We want [PLA(N)] participation in RIMPAC to be as successful as possible, and a building block to future cooperation," said Greenert. The visit of Adm. Wu to the U.S. coincides with the Sept. 6, arrival of three ships from the PLA(N) at Pearl Harbor marking their first port visit to the U.S. since 2006. Wu last visited the U.S. as a guest of previous CNO Adm. Mike Mullen in 2007. This counterpart visit by the leaders of the U.S. Navy and China's Navy is intended to help establish clear paths of communication, encourage transparency and trust, mitigate risks, and focus multilateral cooperative efforts to address common regional and global security challenges. Joint interagency and international relationships strengthen C3F's ability to respond to crises and protect the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c3f/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-02. Commander In Chief of People's Liberation Army (Navy) Visits USS Carl Vinson By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Recruit James Bleyle CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- Adm. Wu Shengli, commander in chief of the People's Liberation Army - Navy [PLA(N)], visited the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) accompanied by U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert on Sept. 9, 2013. In his first visit to the United States since 2007, Shengli, escorted by Greenert, was rendered side honors by Carl Vinson Sailors before a tour of the warship led by its Commanding Officer Capt. Kent D. Whalen. "It is a rare privilege to welcome aboard such distinguished guests," Whalen said. "To have not only our own chief of naval operations, but to have Adm. Wu from the People's Republic of China as well is truly an honor. I'm pleased and excited some of our terrific Sailors had the opportunity to engage with them both." The delegation toured the waist launch control room, combat direction center (CDC), arresting gear operations room, crew's mess and medical wards, where junior and senior enlisted Sailors demonstrated their work center's professionalism, high-quality standards and the critical functions they perform every day. "It filled me with a great sense of pride to see our Sailors intelligently and passionately present their work centers and explain their work to both CNOs," said Carl Vinson's Command Master Chief (CMDCM) Jeffrey Pickering. "It really spoke to Carl Vinson's high standard of excellence." Wu and Greenert also met with chief petty officers to discuss the important role senior enlisted perform in the U.S. Navy. Following a question-and-answer session on the differences and similarities between the two navies, Capt. Whalen hosted a lunch in the wardroom in honor of Wu. The diplomatic visit was one of many to U.S. Navy and Marine Corps commands in the San Diego area and supports the goals of both military leaders to establish clear paths of communication, encourage transparency and trust, mitigate risks, and focus multilateral cooperative efforts to address common regional and global security challenges. The visit is also especially important as PLA(N) accepted an invitation to participate in the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC) 2014 earlier this year. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC is held every two years and will include more than 20 nations in 2014. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn70/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130908-07. Chinese Navy Leader to Visit San Diego By Third Fleet Public Affairs San Diego (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert will host his counterpart from the People's Republic of China, Adm. Wu Shengli, for a visit to U.S. Navy and Marine Corps commands beginning with San Diego-based Pacific Fleet units this week. Adm. Wu last visited the United States as a guest of previous CNO Adm. Mike Mullen in 2007. Adm. Wu's visit coincides with the arrival Friday at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii of three ships from the People's Liberation Army - Navy [PLA(N)], marking their first port visit to the U.S. since 2006. In San Diego starting Sept. 9, Adm. Greenert and Adm. Wu will visit the headquarters of U.S. 3rd Fleet, the command that leads the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC), the world's largest international maritime exercise held every two years in and around Hawaii. Earlier this year the PLA(N) accepted an invitation to participate in RIMPAC 2014, which will include more than 20 nations. This will be the first time the PLA(N) has participated in RIMPAC. Greenert and Wu will also conduct inport visits to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), and embark USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) at sea during the San Diego portion of the trip. They will also visit U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton before traveling to Washington, D.C. As part of a planned series of military-to-military exchanges between the two nations, Adm. Cecil Haney, commander U.S. Pacific Fleet, visited China this past May in conjunction with a port visit by USS Shiloh (CG 67) at Zhanjiang, China. This counterpart visit by the leaders of the U.S. Navy and China's Navy is intended to help establish clear paths of communication, encourage transparency and trust, mitigate risks, and focus multilateral cooperative efforts to address common regional and global security challenges. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-04. CNO Attends Annual Tailhook Banquet By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Julianne Metzger, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs RENO, Nev. (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert was hosted as a guest speaker at this year's annual Tailhook Association Banquet in Reno Sept. 7. The banquet is a culmination of a three-day symposium hosted by the Tailhook Association to promote fraternity and mentorship in the Naval Aviation community. The three-day symposium included special events for the members and their families, to include panels by veterans on Vietnam combat and Hanoi Hilton and briefings on aviation safety and spouse financial matters. Greenert, speaking to more than 1,200 past and present aviators, their families, POWs, industry and aviation supporters highlighted the history and future of naval aviation. The CNO was impressed how veterans of naval aviation in the audience, veterans of World War II Korea and Vietnam, used their valuable experiences to mentor, nurture and teach the upcoming generation of leaders and pilots. "I think it's astounding, and those of you who spent the money to come out here, I haven't seen anything like this that embraces who you are, what you are about and what so many of you believe in," he said. "So many of you served so many years ago to come here and bring in the people who serve today and honor them and they honor you." Greenert also stressed the enduring necessity for naval aviation as global security concerns are on the rise. "Carrier aviation has epitomized the Navy for a long time. When the American public thinks forward presence you always see the pictures of the aircraft carriers." Greenert is the 3rd Chief of Naval Operations to address the members of the Tailhook association during the annual banquet since 1991. The 1991 Tailhook is often referenced as an example of the culture problem the military faces today. "We've got to focus on sexual assault prevention. It happened here in this association years ago, and it can happen anywhere," said Greenert. "It is the challenge of our times. It's a safety issue for me, I think our kids deserve a climate of dignity and respect and a good place to work." Greenert went on to talk about the future of naval aviation, aircraft carriers, the undersea domain, and how the Navy will work within the restricted fiscal environment expected in fiscal year 2014. "It's difficult challenging times but it's also an opportunity for us," he said. "We need to leverage what naval aviation does best, be adaptable and flexible - for me it's payloads and platforms." Greenert opened and closed by citing the strength and success of the Navy comes from the men and women who volunteer to serve the country. At the beginning of his speech he cited this year being the 40th anniversary of the all-volunteer force and at the end he cited the book and movie line from the Bridges at Toko Ri: "Admiral, where do we find such people?" "Answer is, right here, they are in this room. They were in this room before all of us were in this room... As long as we have kids like you and like we have now, and those that are flying today, we'll be all right," he said. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-03. UNITAS Kicks Off in Colombia From U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs CARTAGENA, Colombia (NNS) -- Naval forces from Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Peru, the United Kingdom and the United States kicked off UNITAS 2013, an annual multinational exercise, Sept. 8 in Cartagena, Colombia. This year's exercise is hosted by the Colombian navy and will include 19 warships that will conduct operations in the Western Caribbean Sea through Sept. 15. Observers from Belize, El Salvador, Germany, Jamaica, Panama and Mexico are also participating in the exercise. UNITAS is intended to train participating forces in a variety of maritime scenarios to test command and control of forces at sea while operating as a multinational force to provide the maximum opportunity to improve interoperability. "While the overarching goal of the exercise is to develop and test command and control of forces at sea, training in this exercise will address the spectrum of maritime operations," said Rear Adm. Sinclair M. Harris, the U.S. 4th Fleet commander. UNITAS develops and sustains relationships that improve the capacity of U.S. and partner nation maritime forces through complex and comprehensive multinational training at sea. "Specifically, there will be high-end warfare scenarios addressing electronic warfare, anti-air warfare and air defense, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and maritime interdiction operations," Harris said. The training focuses on developing coalition building, multilateral security cooperation, promoting tactical interoperability and friendship, professionalism and mutual understanding among the participating partner nations. The next UNITAS exercise is scheduled for spring 2014. U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet employ maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility. For more news from U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command & U.S. 4th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusns/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-14. Keep What You've Earned Campaign Marks Significant decrease in Alcohol Incidents From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (NADAP) Office announced Sept. 9 that alcohol incidents among Sailors decreased 51 percent* from Memorial Day through Labor Day compared the same period last year. "This decrease shows Sailors are taking ownership of this issue," said Rear Adm. Sean Buck, director of the 21st Century Sailor Office. "As with all our programs, we look to Sailors to make responsible choices in their personal and professional lives." The decrease followed NADAP's launch of the Keep What You've Earned Campaign, which promotes responsible drinking by reminding Sailors how much they have to lose. "We had more than 700 fewer alcohol incidents during the well-known '101 Days of Summer' this year, and about one in four of those incidents were related to driving under the influence," said Dorice Favorite, director of NADAP. "Our work isn't done, but these numbers show that Sailors are making responsible choices regarding their use of alcohol and contributing to a safer and more productive fleet." Favorite attributed the campaign's success to grassroots support from the regional and local levels. "The Navy Region Mid Atlantic was a huge supporter of our Keep What You've Earned campaign this summer," said Favorite. "They hosted Memorial Day Weekend send-off events at six installations and rallied more than 650 Sailors together to march in support of responsible drinking during the Fourth of July liberty weekend." Other Keep What You've Earned summer safety events took place at Naval Base San Diego, Naval Station Great Lakes, Naval Shipyard Kittery, Naval Base Kitsap, and the Washington Navy Yard. In addition to these events, NADAP partnered with the Naval Safety Center's "Live to Play, Play to Live" Summer Safety Campaign. Together they encouraged Sailors and Navy personnel to take an online pledge to practice responsible drinking habits this summer. Hundreds of Sailors took the pledge, promising to plan ahead for a safe ride home, not try to "keep up" with others, and to know their limit, before they got there. Responses from Sailors regarding why they pledged to drink responsibly included: * "I don't want to lose my career and future just because of an irresponsible drinking decision." * "I want my fellow shipmates to know that they have a good liberty buddy dedicated to their safety if a DD is needed." * "I have worked too long and too hard to get to where I am today." * "My life is more important than a bottle of beer." * "The consequences of not drinking responsibly are worse than any hangover." To read more of the reasons why Sailors choose to drink responsibly, visit the NADAP Flickr Account. NADAP will continue to promote the Keep What You've Earned campaign year-round, releasing new testimonial videos throughout the coming months. NADAP encourages Navy leadership and alcohol abuse prevention personnel to stay tuned to the NADAP Facebook page for the latest news on campaign resources and developments: https://www.facebook.com/USN.NADAP. For more information and to help promote responsible drinking within your command, you can access materials and resources from NADAP's Keep What You've Earned campaign, available at www.nadap.navy.mil. *Based on NADAP alcohol incident data as of Sept. 5, 2013. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnp/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-01. 9-Digit ZIP Code is Key to Getting Mail By Debbie Dortch, NAVSUP Corporate Communications MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) -- Sailors not receiving mail as expected should remind senders about the United States Postal Service (USPS) requirement to use the nine-digit ZIP code on all mail sent to FPO and APO addresses. Every mobile unit - ships, squadrons, detachments, et cetera, and OCONUS Shore installations - has a unique nine-digit ZIP code," said Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Navy Postal Policy Division Director Thomas Rittle. "Commanding officers should provide the correct ZIP codes to Sailors so they can notify their correspondents about the mandatory address requirement." Units or commands unsure of their proper nine-digit ZIP code should contact their local Military Postal Service Representative. In January 2013, all FPO and APO mail began routing through USPS automated mail sorting equipment at a consolidated mail processing operation in Chicago, Ill., which reads mail for the nine-digit ZIP code, rejecting mail not addressed with the nine-digit ZIP code. USPS addressing tips, guidelines, and restrictions for FPO and APO mail are available at https://www.usps.com/ship/apo-fpo-guidelines.htm Mail-by dates for pre-Dec. 25 delivery of holiday cards, letters, and packages were released Sept. 3. Dates range from November 12 through December 17, depending on destination and mail class. Find all the dates at http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=76321 ZIP codes are a system of postal codes used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) since 1963. The term ZIP is an acronym for Zone Improvement Plan. All U.S. addresses have a standard five-digit ZIP code that informs the postal service of the area of the country and the post office where mail is received. In 1983, the USPS added four digits to ZIP codes to help further pinpoint a recipient's location. The NAVSUP and Navy Supply Corps team share one mission-to deliver sustained global logistics and quality-of-life support to the Navy and joint warfighter. NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps' diverse team of more than 25,000 civilian and military personnel oversee a diverse portfolio including supply chain management for material support to Navy, Marine Corps, joint and coalition partners, supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, security assistance, and quality of life issues for our naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods. The NAVSUP/Navy Supply Corps team forms a vast network of professionals who deliver unparalleled products and services to customers in the Fleet and across the world. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsup/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-06. From Orion to Poseidon - The MPRF way ahead By Lt. Cmdr. Gabe Mauldin, Commander Patrol and Reconnaissance Group (CPRG)/CPRG Pacific NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force (MPRF) is transitioning into a new type/model/series (TMS) for the first time in 50 years. To make this transition a success, the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) and industry leaders are working to sustain the legacy P-3C and EP-3E while the P-8A TMS is being introduced to the fleet. The last time the MPRF Community transitioned to a new TMS was in 1962 with the delivery of the first P-3A to Patrol Squadron (VP) 8. As in the past, the key to a successful transition is constant communication and cooperation across all levels of the NAE and industry. The following highlights are evidence of the success of these efforts. The fleet transition to the P-8A Poseidon is progressing well and on schedule. In Jacksonville, Fla., the Fleet Replacement Squadron, VP-30, MPRF Weapons School and P-8A Fleet Introduction Team have been busy facilitating the transition of the first three fleet squadrons from P-3C to P-8A. VP-16 achieved Safe for Flight (SFF) in January 2013 and is progressing through the Inter-Deployment Readiness Cycle (IDRC) in preparation for the first P-8A deployment in December. VP-5 achieved SFF and began their IDRC in the beginning of August, and VP-45 just started transition upon returning from their last P-3 deployment in June. Over the last year, Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 1 successfully completed P-8A Initial Operational Test and Evaluation supported by multiple detachments, exercises and real-world operations. As expected, the aircraft (based on the Boeing 737) has been extremely reliable. The mission systems have performed well and the aircrews are rapidly becoming more adept at flying and employing the aircraft while the maintenance team is developing the skills required to repair and maintain this modern aircraft. The supply chain is expanding to meet the demands of a new aircraft and the community is constantly learning to ensure that the P-8A is poised for success when it deploys this winter. While there have been many challenges as the P-8A executes test and fleet introduction simultaneously, the P-8A program continues to be a model of effective planning and execution. The airframe and mission systems are a significant technological leap forward and provide commanders with a reliable platform hosting advanced technology sensors. Legacy Platforms As the P-3C and EP-3E continue their trek toward the end of their life cycle, many challenges need to be overcome, including parts obsolescence, increased levels of support for legacy components, and a shortage of flight line assets. In 2007, MPRF "red stripe" events, which grounded aircraft due to "fatigue tracking metrics beyond acceptable limits," left the community with 49 mission aircraft to support the high operational demand across the globe and at home. More than 50 percent of the P-3 fleet was out of reporting (OOR) due to the red stripe. Massive sustainment efforts have been made and we are beginning to see a real return on our investment as aircraft are returned to service. In FY14, we plan on reducing the amount of our P-3C inventory OOR for depot-level sustainment events and technological modifications by more than 10 percent, and we plan to reach P-3's required number of Primary Aircraft Assigned by the end of FY15. We expect to have sufficient ready-for-tasking assets to meet deployment and training requirements until platform sundown, but P-8A delivery must proceed as planned to ensure there is no gap in coverage for Global Force Management. Our cost savings efforts have been effective and multiple cost reduction initiatives have allowed the aging force to operate efficiently and effectively. Recently, initiatives to improve Engine Driven Compressor maintenance and place our APS-137 Receiver Exciter Processor and Transmitter under a Performance Based Logistics contract with Raytheon have helped reduce cost by 11 percent. With more than 50 years of faithful and dedicated service complete, the mighty P-3C Orion is prepared to finish its service to the Navy at full speed. Manpower One of the most complicated pieces of the MPRF transition is manpower. When the transition is completed, the MPRF community will consist of the P-8A Poseidon teamed with the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft system. The P-8A/MQ-4C combination will be responsible for all the missions currently covered by VP, Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadrons (VQ), and Patrol Squadron Special Projects Unit (VPU) today. The MPRF transition is a unique manpower story and a challenge - the P-3C is being replaced by two new TMSs - but all manpower is being sourced from within the legacy community. The restructuring has already begun with the consolidation of the VQ and VPU last year, and the continued transition of P-8A squadrons in Jacksonville. Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19, the first MQ-4C squadron, is currently scheduled to begin its standup with an officer-in-charge in late FY14. Conclusion The MPRF Community has almost fully recovered from the 2007 red stripe and is quickly transitioning to the new P-8A. The successful turnaround since 2007 can be directly attributed to the NAE and industry leaders working towards a common goal of recovery and eventual transition to the next generation of maritime patrol aircraft, both manned and unmanned. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Naval Aviation Enterprise, visit www.navy.mil/local/NAE/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-18. Navy RAD 'Takes Action,' Shifts to Phase III From Director, Assessments Division OPNAV (N81) Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations' Reducing Administrative Distractions (RAD) initiative moved from Phase II (Propose Changes) to Phase III (Take Action) Sept. 9, marking the final phase of the RAD effort. In Phase III, the RAD team will reach out to the Navy owner associated with an idea in an effort to bring forth change. The team will also continue and solicit the Fleet's vision of where the Navy should be in three to five years should tablets and Wi-Fi be incorporated on Navy bases and ships, with the focus of how the technology could be utilized to streamline Navy processes and further reduce administrative distractions. RAD is an effort to get direct input from Sailors on how the Fleet can streamline or eliminate administrative processes to allow more time to focus on mission readiness. RAD provides all personnel - active duty, Reserve, and Navy civilians - a platform to voice their concerns about administrative tasks, procedures, instructions and training, and propose solutions to fix these issues. RAD functions much like a social media interface, allowing users to comment and vote on posts. "The Fleet has been extremely responsive on the RAD website with tremendous input provided to the team," said Rear Adm. Herm Shelanski, director, Assessment Division, OPNAV N81, and RAD team leader. "I couldn't be more pleased with the well thought out suggestions and ideas provided by our innovative Sailors. This tells me that our Sailors are motivated to bring forth positive change and make our Navy even stronger and more effective warfighters. We look forward to our Sailors' continued participation in this latest campaign." Since its inception in early July, RAD has received over 1,300 ideas and over 7,000 comments posted on these ideas. Via crowdsourcing, nearly 90,000 votes have been cast on submitted ideas and the top ones have been easily identified. In addition to Fleet interaction on RAD, a team of 40+ personnel across all communities has been working diligently and categorized all submitted ideas into five main categories. These categories are GMT, 3M, ATFP, NavyWiki, and CAC. Working with OPNAV directorates and stakeholders, the RAD team has already identified several ongoing initiatives that were able to include (or had already included) many of the ideas proposed on the website. Duplicate ideas were consolidated and the RAD team has developed 80 lines of operation that they are looking to find solutions for. Upon completion of this RAD three phase cycle, the program will promulgate the progress to date, monitor the impact and plan for the next cycle. For more information, or to provide feedback, visit the RAD website at http://navyrad.ideascale.com/ -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-05. Undersea Domain Operating Concept Approved by Chief of Naval Operations From Navy Warfare Development Command Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Chief of Naval Operations recently approved the Undersea Domain Operating Concept (UDOC) to ensure the U.S. Navy maintains undersea superiority into the future. Navy Warfare Development Command (NWDC) worked with commander, Submarine Forces and other stakeholders to develop this concept. Navy concepts are ways to stimulate innovation and the UDOC is a consolidation of many new ideas. The UDOC describes how expanded use of the undersea domain contributes to cross-domain synergy, providing significant joint warfighting advantages. It provides a conceptual framework from which senior military leaders can better recognize and employ the effects and capabilities of undersea forces in joint warfighting. The concept explores several specific contributions of undersea maneuver as well as some enabling capabilities that will support expanded use of the undersea domain. An accompanying action plan sets the stage for more detailed products including integrating and enabling concepts and concepts of operation that inform future doctrine and tactics, techniques and procedures. "As a maritime nation, our economy depends upon open commercial sea lanes, and our national security - and that of our allies - increasingly depends upon the advantages we enjoy in the undersea domain," said Rear Adm. Scott Jerabek, commander, NWDC. "The Undersea Domain Operating Concept offers new ways for preserving our freedom of action in the undersea domain. " For more news from Navy Warfare Development Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwdc/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-06. Navy Program 'Excelerates' Alternative Energy By David Smalley, Office of Naval Research ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- As the Department of the Navy (DoN) continues to emphasize the need for energy security, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) announced Sept. 9 it will increase its support for Energy Excelerator, a Hawaii-based program that funds development of new and innovative energy ideas. The program, part of ONR's Asia-Pacific Technology and Education Program (APTEP), is an effort to discover groundbreaking energy technologies, and supports startup companies in bringing those technologies to the market. The $30 million investment from ONR will not only help such promising companies grow, but also draw in other partners to help energy innovation flourish. The current 17 Energy Excelerator portfolio companies have raised more than $38 million in follow-on funding over the past three years. "In the modern era, technological breakthroughs offer unprecedented opportunities to move toward diversified energy sources," said Dr. Richard Carlin, director of ONR's Sea Warfare and Weapons Department. "It's vital for our Sailors and Marines, and the nation, to discover and develop new sustainable sources of energy-as well as dramatically improve the way we manage energy." Hawaii is uniquely positioned for such research, experts say, with unparalleled wind, solar, bioenergy, wave and geothermal resources. Its population is also keenly aware of the need for alternatives to fossil fuels because the state is dependent on imported oil for its power and energy use, and residents face the highest electricity costs in the nation. APTEP and the Energy Excelerator program offer unique support for the nation's strategic pivot toward the Asia-Pacific region, as well as the Department of the Navy's Energy Goals, established by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, to decrease Navy and Marine Corps dependence on fossil fuels. The DoN's Energy Goals policy statement reads in part: "The United States Navy and Marine Corps rely far too much on petroleum, a dependency that degrades the strategic position of our country and the tactical performance of our forces. The global supply of oil is finite, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find and exploit, and over time cost continues to rise." ONR's APTEP efforts are intended to help achieve the secretary's goals not only through science and technology breakthroughs, but also by encouraging technology commercialization and industry partnerships, as well as early education in science, technology, engineering and math. "Partnerships are vital if we're going to reach our energy goals," said Carlin. "With this program that helps small companies bring their products out of the lab and into the market, we're supporting a forward-thinking organization that can make a significant contribution to future energy needs." The Energy Excelerator program provides seed money to companies looking to provide technological capability that can better integrate power from renewable energy sources like solar and wind; energy storage breakthroughs like smaller and more efficient batteries; transportation advances; and more. The program is accepting applications online at http://www.energyexcelerator.com until Sept. 27, 2013. "The Energy Excelerator helps startups succeed, starting in Hawaii - one of the best early markets for energy innovation," said Dawn Lippert, the project's senior manager. "We are excited to see ONR supporting companies that have the potential to make a really big impact in solving global energy problems." ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C. For more news from Office of Naval Research, visit www.navy.mil/local/onr/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-08. USS Harry S. Truman Provides Medical Assistance to Canadian Sailor From Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs ARABIAN SEA (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) provided medical assistance to a Canadian sailor assigned to HMCS Toronto, Aug. 27. Truman and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 were conducting flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) when they received the request for medical assistance from Toronto. An MH-60S helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7, "Dusty Dogs", embarked aboard Truman, transported the Canadian sailor from Toronto to Harry S. Truman. "We're all professional mariners," said Capt. Bob Roth, commanding officer, Harry S. Truman. "Regardless of what our mission is, when we get a request for help, we're going to respond. HSC-7 and our medical team aboard Truman did a fantastic job of getting that sailor safely off his ship, safely onto ours and providing the medical attention he needed." Once aboard, the sailor was received by Truman's medical department where the ship's surgeon, Lt. Cmdr. Camilo Santiago, assessed the patient's condition and began making steps toward providing the proper level of care. "He was initially assessed as being in critical condition," said Santiago. "After being treated here on Truman most of the day yesterday and overnight, his condition improved significantly and we were able to transport him to Bahrain where he'll continue to receive care." Rear Adm. Kevin Sweeney, commander, Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG), commented on the crew's response in assisting with the medical evacuation. "The crews did a great job all the way around," said Sweeney. "The professionalism of Toronto's crew in caring for their sailor until HSC-7 arrived was crucial to his well-being. HSC-7 got the patient here safely and Truman's medical department was able to assess and then stabilize his condition not too long after his arrival. They provided the urgent medical care he needed and might not otherwise have received." The patient was flown by a C-2 Greyhound aircraft to Bahrain Aug. 28. Aircraft carrier and flagship Harry S. Truman is deployed as part of HST CSG to the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts, and missions in support of OEF. For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-17. Same-Sex Spouses of Military Retirees Now Eligible for Survivor Benefits Program From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Same-sex spouses of military members and retirees will now be eligible for Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) coverage according to an Assistant Secretary of Defense memorandum dated Sept. 5. SBP coverage is a benefit extended to same-sex couples after the June 26 Supreme Court ruling on the Defense of Marriage Act in addition to medical, dental, and with-dependent Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) benefits. NAVADMIN 218/13 was released Aug. 29 to provide Navy guidance on the Department of Defense memo dated Aug. 13 that announced the plan to extend benefits to same-sex spouses of uniformed service members and Department of Defense civilian employees. Effective from June 26, a service member who becomes eligible to participate in the SBP under 10 U.S.C. 1448(a)(1) and is married to a same-sex spouse shall have the SBP program applied as for any other married couple under U.S.C. 1448. A service member who was married to a same-sex partner upon becoming eligible to participate in the SBP prior to June 26, and who was married prior to the date, will have until June 25, 2014 to make a spouse election under 10 U.S.C. 1448(a)(3). If an election is not received on or before June 25, 2014, full spousal coverage will be entered and the member shall be responsible for premium payments effective from June 26, 2013. A service member who was not married upon becoming eligible to participate in SBP, but who married a same-sex spouse before June 26, shall have until June 25, 2014 to make a spouse election under 10 U.S.C. 1448(a)(5). If the election is not received on or before that date, the service member shall be prohibited by law from making such an election. Additionally, a service member who married a same-sex partner on or after June 26, and has insurable interest coverage under 10 U.S.C. 1448(b) may terminate that coverage and, if eligible, elect spousal coverage under 10 U.S.C. 1448 (a)(5). The Department of Defense recognizes all marriages that are certified with a valid marriage certificate. Other entitlements, such as BAH, family separation allowance and medical expenses are retroactive to the date of the Supreme Court's decision, June 26. For those married after June 26, entitlements will begin on the date of marriage. Spousal and family benefits, including ID cards, were made available to same-sex spouses beginning Sept. 3. Enrollment in the SBP is not automatic. Individuals must take action to confirm each service member is receiving the benefits to which he or she is entitled. It is incumbent upon the service member to ensure he or she is enrolled and up to date on their intended beneficiaries. For more information about the DADT Post Repeal, visit http://www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/21ST_CENTURY_SAILOR/DADT/Pages/default.aspx. To read NAVADMIN 218/13, visit http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/reference/messages/Documents/NAVADMINS/NAV2013/NAV13218.txt. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnp/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-12. NMCB 3 Establishes Historic SCW Academy By Builder Constructionman Laine Pulfer, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 kicked off an historical Seabee Combat Warfare (SCW) training academy, Sept. 9, for all troops stationed in Okinawa, Japan. The new program will provide more than 300 main body Seabees with all required classroom and practical training needed for their SCW qualification in just three weeks - a process that typically took up to one year. According to Steelworker 1st Class Ephraim Fonseca, NMCB 3 SCW coordinator, the SCW program provides Seabees with the skills and abilities needed to ensure each expeditionary Sailor is a competent warfighter, ready to operate forward. "Our job takes us to remote areas across the world," said Fonseca. "We are ordered to build critical construction projects in combat zones, provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to communities devastated by natural disaster and then, if needed, defend those efforts against any kind of threat." To provide these capabilities and complete the above missions, NMCB 3 Seabees may have to conduct their own convoy operations, while operating myriad weapons systems to include small arms, belt-fed machine guns, and grenade or rocket launchers. Currently, NMCB 3 Seabees are building schools, community centers, repairing roads and digging wells throughout the Pacific Region in areas such as Cambodia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, Tonga and the Republic of Korea. "All of the skill sets learned from the SCW program supports our tactical mission," Said Senior Chief Builder Stephen Stran. "You can pull any section of the program and apply it to any of our current missions here in the Pacific Region, so as expeditionary war fighters who are forward deployed, it helps ensure we are ready for anything we may need to do." The SCW academy covers fifteen topics on Seabees missions and capabilities through book work and hands-on exercises. At the end of each topic, there is a test each Seabee must pass to gain credit for that subject. Subjects include tactical operations, construction, basic Navy history and the Seabee ethos. The classroom material is applied in a Field Training Exercise (FTX), bringing everything into perspective. This is necessary before granted the qualification, so if a student has not had the chance to complete a FTX, they will have the chance to participate in a similar exercise while in Japan. The Jungle Warfare Training Course (JWTC) is equivalent to a FTX, counts towards SCW qualifications. JWTC is an expert lesson that teaches Seabees how to build and fight in dense jungle conditions. "Without a SCW pin, a Seabee is not a bona fide Seabee - you need that pin in our community," added Fonseca. Junior Seabee war fighters are taught early in their career that a SCW designator lends credibility and professionalism to their uniform. Construction Electrician Constructionman Kayla Anderson has been working on her SCW qualification nearly a year. She has completed all required training vice a few classes and is excited to see others gain the knowledge needed to join her at the finish line. "All that's left is a few more classes, my final test and a board," said Anderson. "It's nice to know that my friends will be able to get through the process quicker, and we'll all be at the same professional level. It's a big step in every Seabee's career and something we chase after from the second we get to the battalion." 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- NNS130909-09. Sailors and Civilians Attend "Out of the Darkness" Community Walk By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jackie Hart VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors and civilians from the Hampton Roads area gathered Sept. 7 at Mt. Trashmore for the "Out of the Darkness" Community Walk as part of National Suicide Prevention Week. Sponsored by the Hampton Roads Survivors of Suicide (S.O.S.) Support Group, the event aimed to raise awareness for depression and suicide, to promote good physical and mental health and to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). "This is all about creating awareness for the all the people of Hampton Roads so that we can try and prevent this illness of suicide," said Susan Rowe, "Out of the Darkness" Community Walk registration lead. "We have to get the word out that there is help, and we have to reach out and give people the help they need." With a crowd of more than 5,000 people in attendance, event coordinators provided opportunities for participants to share their stories openly or in private with one of 20 on-site counselors. Coordinators also emphasized the importance of remembering loved ones who have fallen victim to suicide, as well as the importance of promoting awareness for possible signs of suicidal behavior and education on bystander intervention. Hampton Roads S.O.S. group members placed specific emphasis on the fact that depression is a treatable disease. According to their website, www.sos-walk.org, more than 90 percent of all people who die by suicide have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder, and increased awareness to signs of suicidal behavior can help save lives. "I was very close to my friend," said Kevin Mashek, "Out of the Darkness" Community Walk registration volunteer. "He drifted away from me and I regret not being there for him (when he committed suicide), but being here helps me to cope with it along with his family." According to Hampton Roads S.O.S., the 10th leading cause of death among Americans is suicide, which is often a result of untreated depression. Also, post-traumatic stress disorder is a leading cause of suicide in the military, and in Virginia alone, one of every four adults who commit suicide is a military veteran. "Being in the military, we see a lot of people going through hardships in different ways around the world, and we're here to let them know we support them," said David Jack, Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class. "Suicide is a really serious medical issue, and if we can prevent losing even one person from our overall mission in the military, it helps everyone as a whole." For more information on suicide prevention, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-05. Hampton Visits Association of Differently Abled Persons during Port Visit to Subic Bay From Commander, Submarine Group Seven Public Affairs SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- The San Diego based Los Angeles-class, fast attack submarine USS Hampton (SSN 767) visited the Association of Differently Abled Persons Sep. 7 during their port visit to Subic Bay. The visit was organized by Commander, Submarine Group Seven, to allow Sailors to give something back and interact with the local community. The group spent the morning visiting with the children at their local school and learning about the challenges they face. The group sang songs, played games with the children and let them play with their iPhones, which were very popular. Hampton Sailors visited the school with Sailors from the USS Emory S. Land (AS-39), which is also moored in Subic Bay. "This was a great opportunity for everyone who was able to go see these children," said Senior Chief Electronics Technician (SS) Nick Green, Hampton's assistant navigator. Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6000 tons when submerged, Hampton is one of the most complex 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. Hampton's parent squadron is Commander, Submarine Squadron Eleven, homeported in San Diego, Calif. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Commander Submarine Group 7, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg7/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130909-01. Hampton visits Subic Bay during Western Pacific Deployment From Commander, Submarine Group 7 Public Affairs SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- The San Diego based Los Angeles-class, fast attack submarine USS Hampton (SSN 767) arrived at Subic Bay, Philippines, Sept. 6 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific. With a crew of 135, Hampton will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet during its time in the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility. "The crew of Hampton is very excited about visiting Subic Bay," said Cmdr. Lincoln Reifsteck, commanding officer of the Hampton. "The majority of my crew has never been to the Philippines, but has heard a lot of great stories about the city and country from family and friends. We are also proud to be moored next to the USS Emory S. Land (AS-39) and look forward to working with their team of professionals during our time in port." For two Hampton crew members, this port visit marks a homecoming. Logistics Specialist 1st Class Raynoel Pena and Culinary Specialist Seaman Recruit Joselito Manuel were born and lived in the Philippines for some time before joining the Navy. Manuel grew up near Manila before moving to San Diego at age ten. He has not had an opportunity to return to the country since then. "I am excited to have my grandmother, aunt and some of my cousins come to visit me on my 20th birthday, while we are in port," said Manuel. "I have only been able to see this part of my family through video chat and am thankful the Navy has given me the opportunity to return to my home county." Pena also grew up near Manila and moved to Hawaii at age nine. His father's family was from Olongapo City and he is looking forward to going back the Philippines with Hampton. "I haven't been back to the Philippines since my last ship, the USS Peleliu (LHA-5), pulled into Subic Bay in 2010," said Pena. "It is always nice to see family when I return and I'm glad the Navy has given me that opportunity several times." Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6000 tons when submerged, Hampton is one of the most complex 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 Hampton's parent squadron is Commander, Submarine Squadron 11, homeported in San Diego, Calif. For more news from Commander Submarine Group 7, visit www.navy.mil/local/csg7/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130910-04. Bonhomme Richard Departs Darwin By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jerome D. Johnson DARWIN, Australia (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed Darwin, Australia Sept. 10. Bonhomme Richard is concluding Exercise Koolendong 2013 (KD13), a bilateral exercise that took place at the Bradshaw Field Training Area (BFTA) in Australia's Northern Territory. While in port, Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines conducted an onload of 31st MEU Marines and their equipment after completion of KD13, as well as participated in a volunteer service project. Sailors and Marines visited Millner Primary School's out-of-school hours care program for a volunteer service project. The program offers extracurricular activities to children between the ages 4 and 13. Sailors and Marines engaged in activities with the children which included arts and crafts, sports, and games. "It is important for us to give back to the community," said Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Brandon Ingram. "It feels great to able to volunteer and interact with the children. The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, commanded by Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, is currently conducting joint force operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. 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- NNS130909-11. NMCB 3 CCAD Cambodia Improves Life at Local Children's Home By Equipment Operator 3rd Class T.J. Meltesen, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs CAMBODIA (NNS) -- Six volunteers from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3's Cambodia Civic Construction Action Detail (CCAD) built benches for a nearby children's home Sept. 7. The benches will provide more than 200 children living at the home an area other than the concrete floor to sit, learn and read books. "Building these benches was a small effort on our part, but it made a huge impact on the children living at the home," said Lt. Luke Feist, CCAD officer in charge. "We are here to improve the social welfare of this country. Each smile, added comfort or anything we can do to simply make life better for the Cambodians is both something expected of us as Seabees and a truly meaningful use of our skills." The Cambodia team is tasked with drilling wells across different areas of the country to provide local Cambodians with water for drinking and irrigation. "I am so honored to take part in this project," said the CCAD's Project Coordinator Steelworker 2nd Class Jerry Casiquin. "It has always been a dream of mine since joining - a dream to help people who honestly need it. To see the expression of gratitude on their face when all I did was do my job and make a bench ... this is why I enjoy deployments." 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/. NNS130910-07. Current All Hands Update From Defense Media Activity - Navy WASHINGTON (NNS) -- All Hands Update features two one-minute newscast and one web newscast. First one-minute newscast - - Headlines for Monday, September 9, 2013- USS Minnesota Commissioned in Norfolk, September 7th; The Naval Academy is Seeking Enlisted Sailors and Marines For Its Class of 2018 http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18813 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rK6FrwlLdPw Second one-minute newscast - - Chinese Navy Ships Visit Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18814 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE3AOlyHiUE First one-minute web newscast - - Mid-South Sailors Kicked Off Suicide Prevention Month With A Proclamation Signing and Awareness Walk http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18815 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFXi7gqiW0c 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- NNS020711-09. This Day in Naval History - Sept. 10 From the Navy News Service 1813 - In the Battle of Lake Erie, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, flying his "Don't give up the ship" flag, defeats British squadron and says: "We have met the enemy, and they are ours..." 1925 - Submarine R-4 (SS 81) rescues crew of PN-9 plane 10 miles from their destination of Hawaii. 1945 - Carrier Midway (CVB 42) commissioned. 1961 - World's first nuclear-powered guided-missile cruiser, Long Beach (CGN 9) is commissioned. 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).