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 NNS130618-01. Navy Commands Encourage 'Keep What You've Earned' Events All Summer -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74894 DNU -- SECNAV Discusses Sexual Assault Prevention Initiatives; Navy To Implement New Messaging System -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18552 NNS130618-10. Navy EOD Techs Awarded Bronze Stars -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74902 NNS130618-19. Non-Resident Training Courses website back online -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74905 NNS130618-12. MV-22 Osprey Squadron makes Maiden Deployment on Bonhomme Richard -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74858 NNS130618-16. Operation Shower Provides Shower Gifts to Expectant and New Mothers -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74870 DNU -- MCPON talks about SAPR -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18555 NNS130618-13. Bonhomme Richard Conducts All Hands Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Training -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74887 NNS130618-15. USS Bonhomme Richard Departs for Summer 2013 Deployment -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74859 NNS130618-17. Germantown Conducts Ammo Onload -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74891 NNS130618-14. USS Hampton Departs for Western Pacific Deployment -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74906 NNS130618-08. USS Arlington Underway First Time Since Commissioning -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74895 NNS130618-03. Hue City Arrives in Palma de Mallorca, Spain -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74892 NNS130618-02. Blue Ridge Departs Jakarta -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74890 DNU -- Rota Firefighters Train for All Situations -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18553 NNS130618-07. Nimitz Celebrates Navy Hospital Corps 115th Birthday -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74901 DNU -- Paralympic Athlete and Sailor Discusses What Navy Taught Him -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18551 DNU -- Former SECNAV Tours USS DeWert -- http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18554 NNS130618-20. Current All Hands Update -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=74899 NNS020418-26. This Day in Naval History - June 18 -- http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=1390 Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day -- http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=153401 -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-01. Navy Commands Encourage 'Keep What You've Earned' Events All Summer From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Navy announced the updated "Keep What You've Earned" guide for planning summer safety splash events is now available, June 18. The updated guide is available at www.nadap.navy.mil. The biggest addition in the update is the "Send Off" event, modeled after Navy Region Mid-Atlantic's send-off of Sailors prior to the Memorial Day weekend. On the Thursday afternoon before Memorial Day, multiple Navy commands took advantage of the upcoming holiday to remind Sailors of the importance of responsible use of alcohol to stay on track with their careers. Chiefs, junior officers and first class petty officers all showed their support by manning the gates with "Keep What You've Earned" signs. This splash event came on the heels of the release of petty officer advancement results, reinforcing the message of keeping what you've earned. To enable commands to host summer splash events at their installations and incorporate "Keep What You've Earned" messaging into their existing summer safety fairs and safety stand downs, the Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (NADAP) office created an "Event-in-a-Box" implementation guide. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for holding an event and accessing resources. There are a variety of event options, depending on the time and resources available. Details on how to host a "Send Off" event or any of our other responsible drinking, summer safety events are available in the online implementation guide. The "Play to Live Pledge", also promoted during the events, has received more than 100 commitments from Sailors pledging to drink responsibly this summer. To take the pledge, visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/drinkresponsibly . NADAP encourages all commands to download the "Keep What You've Earned" "Event-in-a-Box" guide and host a responsible drinking event this summer. For more information, you can access materials and resources from NADAP's "Keep What You've Earned" campaign, available at www.nadap.navy.mil . For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy . For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/npc/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-10. Navy EOD Techs Awarded Bronze Stars By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Randy Savarese VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Two Sailors from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 were awarded the Bronze Star Medal, for their actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, during an award ceremony held on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS), June 18. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Johnny J. Novela was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" device for heroic achievement and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 2nd Class John F. Piowaty was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement in connection with combat operations. Rear Adm. Michael Tillotson, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), presented the medals in addition to four Joint Service Commendation Medals. "I'm glad we're able to recognize our Sailors today," said Tillotson. "These Navy EOD (explosive ordnance disposal) warriors represent the best of the community; always ready to engage the enemy and looking after one another, I couldn't be prouder." Novela was cited for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as an EOD team member while assigned to a Joint Task Force in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from April 13-14, 2012. Novela's strike force was in a firefight with multiple barricaded shooters when, in an effort to prevent further injuries to a pinned down U.S. Army Ranger, Novela risked his own life maneuvering to draw enemy fire to his position away from his fallen comrade. His engagement with multiple combatants with effective small arms fire ensured the safe extraction of the wounded Ranger. "I didn't even think about it, it just happened, said Novela. "It feels great to receive this award but honestly I was just doing my job. I love each and every one of those guys like a brother and I know they would have done the same for me." Piowaty was cited for meritorious achievement involving combat operations against the enemy. He served as an EOD team leader while assigned to a Joint Task Force in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, March 14 to July 15, 2012. Piowaty's leadership and tactical proficiency directly contributed to the task force's success in disrupting enemy operations during numerous direct action missions. In addition, Piowaty safely escorted assault force personnel clearing kilometers of terrain and several enemy compounds. Piowaty directly contributed to the capture of multiple targeted individuals and resulted in the significant reduction of enemy capabilities. "EOD's fundamental goal is the protection of personnel: looking out for your team, the units you are attached to, and your foreign partners who will continue the fight," said Piowaty. "This award will serve as a daily reminder of that promise. I am honored to receive such a distinguished award." The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to an individual who, while serving in or with the military of the United States, distinguishes him or herself by heroic or meritorious achievement while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States or while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force. President Roosevelt authorized the Bronze Star Medal by Executive Order 9419 Feb. 1944, retroactive to Dec. 7, 1941. The Executive Order was later amended by President Kennedy, per Executive Order 11046 Aug. 24 1962, to expand the authorization to include those serving with friendly forces. EODMU2 provides operational explosive ordnance disposal capability for the location, identification, rendering safe, recovery, field evaluation and disposal of all explosive ordnance, including chemical and nuclear weapons. For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, visit www.facebook.com/EODGRU2 . For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/eod2/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-19. Non-Resident Training Courses website back online By Ed Barker, Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- Following a site maintenance outage that lasted longer than anticipated, the Navy's Non-Resident Training Course (NRTC) website, https://www.courses.netc.navy.mil/ , has been returned to service, June 18. Several Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) websites and applications were offline for updates and maintenance starting June 3. The site upgrades are completed and the websites are back online. "Returning the 99 NETC subordinate websites to service has taken longer than originally expected and we regret the impact to our customers," said David Schisler, director of operations and infrastructure, Naval Education and Training Professional Development Technology Center (NETPDTC). "The vast majority of NETC sites are back online and we are working to bring the remainder up as soon as possible." Personnel that were adversely impacted by the NRTC down time (7-18 June) should contact the help desk at 1-877-264-8583 or NRTC@navy.mil for individual assistance on a case by case basis. For more information on the Naval Education and Training Command, visit the NETC website at: https://www.netc.navy.mil . For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy . For more news from Naval Education and Training Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnet/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-12. MV-22 Osprey Squadron makes Maiden Deployment on Bonhomme Richard By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew Bradley SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) embarked four MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft from squadron VMM-263 for their maiden Forward Deployed Naval Forces (FDNF) deployment, June 14. The MV-22 Osprey is designed as the medium-lift replacement for the Marine Corps' CH-46E Sea Knight assault support helicopter and provides a revolutionary change in capabilities. The Osprey can operate as a helicopter or a turboprop aircraft and offers twice the speed, six times the range and three times the payload of the CH-46E. "The First MV-22 embarkation is important because it sets the tone for the rest of the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) by bringing this new capability to the region," said Cmdr. Hans Sholley, Bonhomme Richard's air department head. "It has double the range of the CH-46 and allows the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to get troops over the horizon much quicker." The Osprey measures more than 57 feet long, has a wingspan of nearly 85 feet, a height of 22 feet, airspeed of 280 knots; and a max gross weight for a vertical take-off of 52,600 lbs and 57,000 lbs for a short take-off. The crew of an Osprey consists of a pilot, co-pilot and a crew chief, and is capable of holding 24 combat-equipped troops. "The MV-22 brings a lot of new capabilities to the 31st MEU," Sholley said. "The MV-22 is a great asset that carries on the legacy of the CH-46 of providing assault support to the 31st MEU." The deployment of the MV-22s to the 7th Fleet AOR demonstrates the U.S. government's commitment to the defense of Japan and the maintenance of international peace and security in the Far East in support of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation, as well as the security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. MV-22s enhance the Navy-Marine Corps team's ability to conduct amphibious operations and perform humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Bonhomme Richard is the lead ship, the first of three ships of the amphibious ready group (ARG) to get underway, and will be joined by USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Denver (LPD 9) at a later date. Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently operating in the 7th Fleet AOR and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-16. Operation Shower Provides Shower Gifts to Expectant and New Mothers From Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs CROMWELL, Conn. (NNS) -- Operation Shower/Birdies for the Brave, in conjunction with the PGA TOUR's Travelers Championship, showered forty military wives, all expectant and/or new moms, with recognition and gifts during "Red, White and Coo" at TPC River Highlands, June 18. Hilaria Thomas Baldwin, "Extra" correspondent and expectant mom, hosted the group shower. This is the third time the shower has been held in Connecticut and for the spouses of submariners. Operation Shower also extended invites to expectant moms married to Connecticut Army National Guardsmen. Page Castrodale, expectant mother and Operation Shower attendee, was thrilled to attend the event, which happened to coincide with her birthday. "It was such an unexpected surprise but it means a lot to be recognized in this way," said Castrodale. Courtney Wilkerson, attendee, was also pleased to be in attendance. "I am very excited for the opportunity and very grateful to be invited to the Operation Shower/Birdies for the Brave event," said Wilkerson. Rear Adm. Ken Perry, commander, Submarine Group Two, and his wife, Alicia Perry, attended the Operation Shower event. The Admiral spoke of the unwavering dedication of the spouses of the "Silent Service." "These spouses carry the torch at home when their Sailors are deployed," said Perry. "They are the mainstay of our Navy families and allow us to do our missions for the country. To all of the military spouses here with us today, thank you for what you do." "For military wives who are expecting a baby and whose spouses are deployed or soon to be deployed, the impending arrival of a child can be both exciting and stressful," said LeAnn Morrissey, Operation Shower founder. The highlight of the event was the presentation of Operation Shower's signature "Showers in a Box." Each expectant and new mom received an array of unique, high-quality products and gift items, from onesies and baby bottles to clothing, crib bedding, diaper bags and toys. The gifts will go a long way in raising the spirits of the moms-to-be, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to experience a baby shower. "Operation Shower was created specifically because typically military moms are the ones who hold it all together at home," said Morrissey. "Without their spouses by their side, deployed to another part of the world, these moms deserve our support, our thanks, our love and an opportunity to celebrate together." In addition to the expectant and new military moms attending the Operation Shower event, several ombudsmen assigned to Commander, Submarine Group 2 submarines also attended the event. Operation Shower is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and honoring military families by providing joyful baby showers for military moms-to-be to ease the stress of deployment. Since its 2007 inception, Operation Shower has showered almost 1,300 military moms from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and National Guard on military bases, during PGA TOUR tournaments, and at other locations. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy . For more news from Commander Submarine Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/local/Subgru2/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-13. Bonhomme Richard Conducts All Hands Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Training By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Achterling USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) conducted sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) training, June 15 to 18. The training was conducted in accordance with NAVADMIN 156/13 and NAVADMIN 158/13, which mandated that all military service members and civilian employees of the Department of Defense (DoD) complete the SAPR training before July 1. During the training, the commanding officer, executive officer, and command master chief led a two-hour session that included focused facilitated engagement on SAPR principles and emphasized the importance of fostering a climate of dignity and respect. "When talking about sexual assault, it's important to engage Sailors directly in frank and open conversation," said Capt. Joey Tynch, Bonhomme Richard's executive officer. "I made sure BHR Sailors know that sexual assault or harassment will not be tolerated on this ship, or anywhere else in the Navy, and that it will take everyone of us, as a team, to lead the way forward. We are BHR...and we'll take on this challenge, we'll take ownership and we will steer the right course ahead. " The intent of the training was to ensure service members and civilian personnel clearly understand they are accountable for fostering a climate where sexist behaviors, sexual harassment and sexual assault are not tolerated. "Within our ranks, we must all act together to eliminate sexual harassment and assault," said Bonhomme Richard's Command Master Chief Scott McCreery. "My goal for this stand-down is to ensure every Bonhomme Richard Sailor realizes that sexual assault is a problem." According to the 2012 Workplace and Gender Relations Survey of active duty members, more than 26,000 service members across the DoD experienced unwanted sexual contact. Of the estimated 26,000, only 2,949 were reported to DoD authorities. "We need make sure our Sailors know serious sexual assault prevention is, because it affects all of us in uniform," said Chief Hospital Corpsman Jason Herring, Bonhomme Richard's sexual assault response coordinator. "Only by working together will we as a division, department, command, or Navy, be able to reverse the current trend of sexual assault and move toward a more positive cultural change in the future." Bonhomme Richard is the lead ship, and the first of three ships of the amphibious ready group (ARG) to get underway and will be joined by USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Denver (LPD 9) at a later date. Bonhomme Richard ARG reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk, visit www.navy.mil/local/pacennorfolk/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-15. USS Bonhomme Richard Departs for Summer 2013 Deployment By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Edward Guttierrez III SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), departed Sasebo, Japan June 13 for a regularly scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR). While deployed, the Bonhomme Richard ARG is scheduled to take part in a comprehensive, complex training evolution that combines the Navy and Marine Corps maritime and sea-to-shore capabilities and work with partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to improve combat readiness and interoperability. "Exercises like the ones the Bonhomme Richard ARG will participate in are vital to ensuring a timely, effective response to any possible mission or emergency in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility," said Capt. Cathal O'Connor, commander, Amphibious Squadron #PHIBRON# 11. "I completely expect the ARG to display our ability to be ready in times of crisis and to fully accomplish our war fighting mission." The Bonhomme Richard ARG is comprised of nearly 4,000 Sailors and Marines from more than six commands including Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) forward deployed to Okinawa, Japan, PHIBRON 11, Tactical Air Squadron (TACRON) 12, Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC), Navy Public Affairs Support Element (NPASE) and Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7. ARG ships include Bonhomme Richard, USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Denver (LPD 9), all forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan. The Bonhomme Richard ARG will provide combatant commanders a versatile sea-based force that can be tailored to a variety of missions in order to provide peace, prosperity and security throughout the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR. 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- NNS130618-17. Germantown Conducts Ammo Onload By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Lindahl SASEBO, Japan (NNS) (NNS) -- The forward-deployed dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) completed loading ammunition in preparation for its patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) as part of the USS Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), June 17. Local contractors and Germantown Sailors worked together to transfer 19 pallets of ammunition by crane in under two hours. "When we're in Japan, we can't load ammunition from the pier," said Fire Controlman 2nd Class Judah Burton. "So we pull out and anchor in the harbor to load from there." Safety is paramount when loading ammunition. The crew focused on consistency, accuracy and efficiency in their movements and with a well established daisy chain of handoffs. "The most dangerous things we take on board are probably flares and pyrotechnics," Burton said. "That stuff is made to burn under water and in any conditions. If that ignites, it's really hard to put out." In regards to efficiency, the Germantown has one of the best track records in the fleet. "Our ability to move ammo safely and quickly is really impressive," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Andrew Mattson. Germantown is the second of three ships from the Bonhomme Richard ARG to get underway and complete its on load of ammunition. Forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) departed, June 13. The amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) will depart at a later date. The Bonhomme Richard ARG is currently operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR and reports to the commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. For more news from Commander, Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet, please visit www.c7f.navy.mil 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- NNS130618-14. USS Hampton Departs for Western Pacific Deployment By Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyle Carlstrom NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- USS Hampton (SSN 767) deployed from Naval Base Point Loma for a scheduled six-month Western Pacific deployment, June 18. The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine's deployment is in support of the Chief of Naval Operations' Maritime Strategy. Hampton's missions will focus on maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts, which help establish conditions for regional stability. The deployment is part of an on-going rotation of deployed forces to support maritime security operations and operations in international waters around the globe, working with other coalition maritime forces. During the past few months, Hampton has conducted several training exercises off the coast of California and is fully prepared to deploy. "I'm very proud of my crew aboard Hampton," said Cmdr. David Lott, commanding officer of USS Hampton. "They have worked extremely hard to ensure our ship is ready to execute all tasking and missions during the deployment. I have a talented and dedicated crew and we all look forward to the challenges of the deployment." Hampton was commissioned Nov. 16, 1993. Displacing more than 6,900 tons, Hampton has a crew of nearly 140 Sailors. She is one of six Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines homeported in San Diego. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy . For more news from Commander, Submarine Squadron 11, visit www.navy.mil/local/css11/. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Commander, Submarine Squadron 11, visit www.navy.mil/local/css11/. -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-08. USS Arlington Underway First Time Since Commissioning By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Eric Brown NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The San Antonio class amphibious transport dock USS Arlington (LPD 24) performed underway replenishments and flight quarters, completed combat systems trials in the Virginia Capes Operating Area, and trained midshipmen, June 3-11. Arlington's last underway is when the ship sailed from the Huntington-Ingalls Industries' shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss.. to Naval Station Norfolk, March 8 - 22. "When we got the ship underway from Pascagoula, we were doing things that were advanced for us, but still very basic operationally," said Lt. Cmdr. Eric Lull, executive officer. "We have made some large steps forward, and getting into more complex operations and drills." The Arlington performed her first underway replenishment, employing the Standard Tensioned Replenishment Alongside Method, June 4. Steaming about 200 feet alongside the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), Arlington received more than 250,000 gallons of diesel fuel marine and JP-5 jet fuel from the oiler. "We had a lot of inexperienced deck seamen at the rig stations who have never done an underway replenishment before," said Lt. j.g. Laura Price, assistant first lieutenant. "However, we spent nearly a full day on May 22 in port performing a shipboard qualification trial with USNS John Lenthall (T-AO 189), which provided us with a lot of practical knowledge of the rigs, line-handling and safety. Everyone was on their game, so Arlington's leadership was very confident with doing our first underway replenishment." In addition to three underway replenishments, Arlington conducted three flight quarters, performed deck landing qualifications with Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon ship delivery helicopters and MH-60 Sierra multi-mission helicopters, and Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopters. "The first night went very well," said Lt. Caleb Lindh, mini boss, air department. "It was slow, but everything got done. During later evolutions, we had some problems with inclement weather." Lindh was impressed by the level of proficiency displayed by Arlington's air department. "It's very evident that most of them have a lot of prior experience recovering and launching aircraft," said Lindh. "Most of them are very intuitive about what needs to be done, and when and how to do it, so there is a minimum amount of communication necessary between the control tower and the flight deck." The Arlington's busy underway period also provided 17 U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen with a hands-on introduction to life aboard an amphibious warship. "They were integrated into the crew and they moved from one department to another," said Lull. "They got to spend some time doing firefighting training, on the helm and conning the ship, doing a crew-served weapons shoot with the M240B machine guns, and serving as line-handlers during our underway replenishments. This was our opportunity to show them the surface Navy is all about." Arlington completed the second and final part of the first phase of the Combat Systems Ship Qualifications (CSSQT) for Surface Ships (the first part occurred from May 20-31) while the amphibious transport dock was import at Naval Station Norfolk, June 7 - 11. According to the Navy's guiding instruction regarding CSSQT, NAVSEAINST 9093.1C, "the purpose of CSSQT is to verify and validate that an individual ship's combat/weapons system have been installed correctly and can be operated and maintained in a safe and effective manner." About 15 evaluators from Naval Sea Systems Command's Warfare Centers boarded Arlington to verify and validate the ship's combat systems through demonstration and operational testing. "One of the major accomplishments we hoped to gain from the first phase of CSSQT was to gain a full understanding of our system operability and capabilities," said Lt. Shawanna Poarch, combat systems officer. "We hope to be able to groom our systems and make sure they are 100 percent operable for the second phase, which is when we get to show our equipment and its functionality." The focus of the part of CSSQT combat watch team training was establishing missile firing procedures, GO/NO-GO criteria for gunnery exercises, casualty identification and mitigation, and simulated Detect to Engage exercises. The combat systems department also demonstrated and tested the ship's radars and communications suite. Poarch believes that one of Arlington's greatest strengths is the ability for more than 70 Sailors - including Electronics Technicians, Fire Controlmen, Gunner's Mates and Information Systems Technicians. "(To) function as a team, we learned to that do that really well during Phase 1 with all the training opportunities that were provided to us," said Poarch. "We showed the CSSQT team, who had never seen our Sailors in action before, that we were setting the bar high for the waterfront." Arlington passed the first phase of CSSQT, and will move on to the certification phase, which will include live firing missile and gunnery exercises, while underway this summer. "In addition to CSSQT, we will be doing a lot of other systems testing to iron out the wrinkles," said Lull. "Arlington is an enormous warship and a multibillion-dollar investment by our government, so we are trying to get the best product we can. Our goal his summer is to find anything that needs improvement and then work with the shipbuilders to make those corrections. We will be fully operational at the end of our next yard period, and ready to join the warfighting fleet." Arlington is the eighth in Navy's San Antonio class of ships, designed to be the most survivable amphibious vessels ever put to sea. The third in the U.S. fleet to bear the name, Arlington is homeported in Norfolk, Va. The ship combines 21st century amphibious shipbuilding and warfighting technologies to support current and future Marine Corps aircraft and landing craft, and will be capable of taking nearly 1,200 Sailors and Marines into harm's way. For more news from Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Arlington (LPD 24), visit www.navy.mil/local/lpd24/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-03. Hue City Arrives in Palma de Mallorca, Spain By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Luis Fiallos, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Afairs PALMA DE MALLORCA, Spain (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) arrived in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, June 18. The visit will provide the crew with well-deserved rest and relaxation before continuing on to the ship's homeport of Mayport, Fla. The Hue City's crew recently completed their mission to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility with the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. It was many of the Sailors' second deployment in the last 13 months on the ship. "Mediterranean port visits are always a favorite for Sailors," said Capt. Daniel B. Uhls, commanding officer. "We consider it as sort of a reward for all of the hard work Hue City Sailors did in part one and two of deployment." Palma de Mallorca gives Sailors a chance to sightsee, shop and explore a new place that many have not seen before. "Palma de Mallorca sounds like an amazing place and I'm looking forward to enjoying the food and seeing the impressive architecture of its historic buildings," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Francisco Villalon of Hue City. This port call will also provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Spain and the U.S. and help maintain a safe maritime environment. "The U.S. and Spain work together to develop cooperative solutions to support regional security and stability throughout this vital region of the world," said Uhls. "Port visits like this lead to expanded military interoperability that enhances our ability to provide ready forces for bilateral and multilateral exercises and operations." Hue City is deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility promoting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. For more news from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn69/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-02. Blue Ridge Departs Jakarta By Mass Communications Specialist Second Class (SW) Jeff Troutman, USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs JAKARTA, Indonesia (NNS) -- U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) departed Jakarta, Indonesia, after completing a four-day port visit June 18. The amphibious command and control ship is currently deployed to the South Indo-Asia Pacific region, engaging allies and strengthening partnerships. In addition to immersing themselves in the local Indonesian culture, Blue Ridge crew members and 7th Fleet staff Marines, from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific, had the opportunity to participate in a friendly soccer game and engage with the citizens of Indonesia during a "Big Top" ceremony on the ship's main deck. "The opportunity for Blue Ridge to visit Jakarta presents us with a more in depth engagement with the Indonesian navy," said Vice Adm. Scott H. Swift, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. "Bringing my entire staff here allows us to have direct staff talks with the Indonesian navy, which is very important. Our specialty is security - maritime security in particular. From security comes stability, which is why 7th Fleet teams with strong partners like the Indonesian navy: to provide greater stability to the region." Despite a day of rain and inclimate weather, the Blue Ridge soccer team were able to participate in a friendly game of soccer with Indonesian sailors and marines. "Before the game started, we were afraid the rain would cause the game to be cancelled," said Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Victor Trujillo. "The rain ended up making it that much more fun and competitive. You could see that everyone from both teams had the biggest smiles on their faces. Sporting events like this are always a great way to bring people together and create bonds between two countries." Blue Ridge has been forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for nearly 34 years. As the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship, Blue Ridge is vital in forging partnerships in the 7th Fleet area of operations. For more news from USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), visit www.navy.mil/local/lcc19/ . -USN- -USN- -USN- NNS130618-07. Nimitz Celebrates Navy Hospital Corps 115th Birthday By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Raul Moreno Jr. USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) celebrated the Navy Hospital Corps' 115th anniversary, June 17. During a ceremony, the ship's Medical Department shared the history of the Navy Hospital Corps and honored all past and present hospital corpsmen. The event commenced with an invocation. Following the prayer, a hospital corpsman led a mass reciting of the Corpsman Pledge. Cmdr. John Cummings, executive officer of Nimitz and former hospital corpsman, shared his experiences as an enlisted member in the medical field and important events in Navy Hospital Corps history. "More corpsmen have earned the Medal of Honor than any other rate in the Navy," said Cummings. "These are our fellow corpsmen out there who give their lives sometimes to defend our nation. I'm honored to say that I was a corpsman; it's helped me become who I am today." Other Sailors shared poetry in commemoration and presented the history of memorable corpsmen. "These are pretty big shoes to fill, so the expectations for us are real big," said Hospitalman Jesus Pacheco, optician. "It's good to celebrate the corpsman because of what it is today." During the ceremony, the youngest and oldest members of the Nimitz medical staff cut a cake as part of the formal tradition. The celebration was for all corpsmen across the globe. "I came into the Navy wanting to be a part of the medical field," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Isreal Thompsonfilip, medical department supply manager and event coordinator. "So, being a hospital corpsman means a lot to me. The history in itself has great meaning when you put the value of human life behind it." Nimitz Strike Group is currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. For more news from USS Nimitz (CVN 68), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn68/ . NNS130618-20. Current All Hands Update From Defense Media Activity - Navy WASHINGTON (NNS) -- All Hands Update features four newscasts today - one two-minute newscasts and three one-minute newscast. Two-minute newscast- - Paralympic Athlete and Sailor Discusses What Navy Taught Him http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18551 http://youtu.be/GwbwfJOz2Rs First One-minute newscast- - Headlines for Tuesday, June 18, 2013: SECNAV Discusses Sexual Assault Prevention Initiatives; Navy To Implement New Messaging System http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18552 http://youtu.be/VhvgK8dwKo0 Second one-minute newscast- - Rota Firefighters Train for All Situations http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18553 http://youtu.be/yOGpHcwp-oE Third one-minute newscast- - Former SECNAV Tours USS DeWert http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=18554 http://youtu.be/I9PmWfg4Gx4 Defense Media Activity - Navy usually produces four All Hands Update (AHU)newscasts each day - one two-minute newscast and three one-minute newscasts. 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- NNS020418-26. This Day in Naval History - June 18 From the Navy News Service 1812 - U.S. declares war on Great Britain for impressment of Sailors and interference with commerce. 1942 - First African-American officer, Bernard W. Robinson, commissioned in Naval Reserve. 1957 - Chief of Naval Operations approves ship characteristics of the Fleet Ballistic Missile submarine. 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).