Submarine in flight.

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Defense Department informed Congress on Friday that the Navy will soon allow women to serve aboard submarines.

In a move led by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and Chief Naval Officer Adm. Gary Roughead, women for the first time could begin training to join submarine crews as early as next year.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates formally notified Congress of the policy change in a letter on Friday, according to Pentagon press secretary Geoff Morrell.

Congress has 30 days of session to respond, a defense department official said on Tuesday, which puts the implementation start date at around mid to late-April.

“There are not approved plans,” for integration just yet, the official said, but said the process could resemble the Navy’s decision to allow women aboard surface ships in 1993.

Although there are nuclear-trained female sailors serving on aircraft carriers, the official said that “it would make the most sense”  the first qualified women submariners, roughly a dozen or more, will come up through nuclear and submarine training.

Women have been aboard submarines, but only in short term runs, such as technical representatives sent to fix items or as VIPs, the official said.

Gradually, they first would join the fleet’s larger subs that could accommodate separate sleeping arrangements.

Mabus first announced the Navy’s intent in September, saying he had worked “aggressively” on making the change since his arrival in March 2009. Last year, Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told Congress he endorsed the change.

Mabus’s spokeswoman Capt Beci Brenton on Tuesday said, “The secretary believes assigning women to submarines is a great idea and the right thing to do.”

We are celebrating tonight on AOTC #83 “HAPPY Birthday NAVY” tonight @ 2115 EST!!
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Navy Birthday Information – 13 October 1775

The Chief of Naval Operations has stated that the Navy Birthday is one of the two Navy-wide dates to be celebrated annually. This page provides historical information on the birth and early years of the Navy, including bibliographies, lists of the ships, and information on the first officers of the Continental Navy, as well as texts of original documents relating to Congress and the Continental Navy, 1775-1783.

The United States Navy traces its origins to the Continental Navy, which the Continental Congress established on 13 October 1775, by authorizing the procurement, fitting out, manning, and dispatch of two armed vessels to cruise in search of munitions ships supplying the British Army in America. The legislation also established a Naval Committee to supervise the work. All together, the Continental Navy numbered some fifty ships over the course of the war, with approximately twenty warships active at its maximum strength.

After the American War for Independence, Congress sold the surviving ships of the Continental Navy and released the seamen and officers. The Constitution of the United States, ratified in 1789, empowered Congress “to provide and maintain a navy.” Acting on this authority, Congress ordered the construction and manning of six frigates in 1794, and the War Department administered naval affairs from that year until Congress established the Department of the Navy on 30 April 1798.

Not to be confused with the Navy Birthday or the founding of the Navy Department is Navy Day. The Navy League sponsored the first national observance of Navy Day in 1922 designed to give recognition to the naval service. The Navy League of New York proposed that the official observance be on 27 October in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, who had been born on that day.

In 1972 Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized recognition of 13 October as the Navy’s birthday. In contrast to Navy Day, the Navy Birthday is intended as an internal activity for members of the active forces and reserves, as well as retirees, and dependents. Since 1972 each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion “to enhance a greater appreciation of our Navy heritage, and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service.”

(From Navy History & Heritage Command)

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Tijuana off-limits to U.S. Marines

Citing a wave of violence and murder in Mexico, the commanding officer of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force based at Camp Pendleton has made the popular military “R&R” destinations of Tijuana and nearby beaches effectively off-limits for his Marines.

The order by Lt. Gen. Samuel Helland restricts travel into Mexico by the 44,000 members of the unit, many of whom have had multiple tours of duty in Iraq, Afghanistan and other combat zones under their belts — or are there now.

The limits were first put in place for the Christmas holiday. Last week the commander extended the order indefinitely, said Mike Alvarez, civilian public information officer for the unit at Camp Pendleton.

“The situation in Mexico is now more dangerous than usual,” he said. “The intent is just to look out for the Marines’ safety and well-being.”

Tijuana has been a popular attraction for Californians since Prohibition days, when legal liquor was unavailable north of the border. In more recent times, its 18-year-old drinking age, cheap prices, gambling, beaches, tourist-oriented businesses and bars have attracted civilians and off-duty military from the San Diego area and elsewhere.

Marines & Sailors Off Limits to Tijuana

San Diego, heavy with Navy and Marine presence, adjoins the Mexican border and Camp Pendleton is in northern San Diego County, about 50 miles from the border.

Fallen on hard times

These days, sidewalk restaurants along Tijuana’s main tourist street, Avenida Revolucion, often are empty. Tourists are buffeted by barkers and merchants desperate for U.S. dollars. Visitors may be approached with offers of drugs or prostitution as well.

Tijuana, like Ciudad Juarez across the border from El Paso, has been hit particularly hard by the drug violence that has spread across Mexico. Tijuana saw its bloodiest year ever in 2008 with 843 killings, compared with 337 the previous year.

The violence in Tijuana grew toward the end of last year and continued this year with numerous execution-style slayings. Many of the bodies were found decapitated. The State Department has issued a travel alert for Americans going to Mexico.

Officials from the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana regularly check with Mexican police and jails for Americans in trouble, and U.S. military Shore Patrol officers check daily. Alvarez said “there have been incidents from time to time” but did not know how many Marines have gotten into trouble.

Helland’s directive requires written approval from a lieutenant colonel or higher-ranking officer for travel across the border — whether for official business, to visit family or for leisure, known in the military as rest and relaxation, or R&R.

Marines venturing over the border also must complete anti-terrorism training, receive a military security briefing and “use the buddy system,” that is travel with a companion 18 or older, according to Helland’s order.

Most of the affected Marines are at Pendleton, but some are at other bases in Southern California and Arizona. And 13,500 members of the unit are currently deployed overseas, said Alvarez, a retired captain and helicopter pilot who served three tours in Iraq.

As part of the order, Marines who cross the border on approved travel must carry contact information for the U.S. Consulate General and the Border Shore Patrol.

The restrictions don’t apply to the more than 75,000 active duty Navy sailors in the area, but they are required to inform their chains of command if they cross the border, said Lt. (j.g.) Lenaya Rotklein, public affairs officer for the Navy Region Southwest Command at San Diego.

For Marines, the order is enforceable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Violators could face a court-martial.

“It’s a lawful order,” Alvarez says. “As Marines, we obey lawful orders.”

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2009 All Hands NAVY Owners Manual.

All Hands 2009 Navy Owners Manual

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Winter 2008 Navy Link Magazine

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New MCPON Rick West

Fleet Master Chief (SS/SW) Rick West has been named the 12th master chief petty officer of the Navy.

A career submariner and 27-year Navy veteran, West was tapped by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead on Friday. Roughead was West’s former boss at Fleet Forces Command and Pacific Fleet before the admiral became CNO.

West served for 11 years as a command master chief and has seen duty onboard five submarines and one destroyer.

He will take over for retiring Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SW/FMF) Joe Campa on Dec. 12, when Campa departs on terminal leave. Campa shocked the fleet Nov. 3 when he announced he was leaving, saying he was concerned about losing his connection with the deck plates and becoming a lame-duck MCPON. At two years and five months, Campa will have served the shortest tour as MCPON in the 41-year history of the job.

“I’m awed and humbled at the opportunity to succeed Joe Campa, who is a longtime friend and trusted shipmate,” West told Navy Times on Dec. 5. “He made tremendous contributions to our Navy and chief’s mess — as I see it, he laid the foundation and it’s up to us now to build the structure.”

West will pick up a number of Campa’s final initiatives in various stages of completion.

Still in the works are chief’s standards and conduct boards — a chief’s mess alternative to captain’s mast; an overhaul of enlisted evaluations that would see junior sailors and petty officers graded on separate criteria; and the groundwork for an extensive overhaul of all enlisted warfare qualifications with an eye on making them mandatory for all sailors, and making them more rigorous.

Campa has relied on West as a key sounding board and member of his “leadership mess,” a group of 121 senior enlisted sailors who work directly for flag or general officers.

As a result, West has been directly involved with developing at least two of these three initiatives. It was West who oversaw the pilot program for the standards and conduct boards — and did much of the work laying out the policy for final approval, sources tell Navy Times.

In addition, Campa told Navy Times that West and Pacific Fleet Master Chief (SW/AW) Tom Howard were both key players in developing the concepts for the new E-6 and below evals.

“I’ve got a great feeling about this,” said Master Chief Machinist’s Mate (SW) Mike Gwinn, with the carrier Kitty Hawk. “He’s a quality guy, someone I saw as willing to go the extra step and get things done right.”

West began his career as a submarine quartermaster and rose to become the senior enlisted sailor at Submarine Forces Pacific after being both a chief of the boat and a squadron command master chief.

His career headed for the surface when he became the command master chief of the destroyer Preble, operating out of San Diego — a tour he completed in 2005 when he was picked for the Pacific Fleet job.

A native of Chattanooga, Tenn., he joined the Navy on Aug. 14, 1980, spending nearly six months in the delayed entry program before reporting to recruit training in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 4, 1981.

After Campa announced his retirement, West immediately became the clear favorite in a field of 17 candidates during a month-long selection process.

Sources say other candidates considered by Roughead included:

• Howard, at Pacific Fleet.

• Command Master Chief (AW/SW) April Beldo, with Naval Service Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

• Command Master Chief (AW/NAC) Jon Port, with the carrier George H.W. Bush.

About West

Name: Rickey Dale West

Age: 45

Home: Chattanooga, Tenn.

Enlisted: Aug. 14, 1980

Date of rank: June 16, 1997

Career history: Tours aboard the ballistic missile submarine Ethan Allen from 1981-82; the boomer Thomas Edison from 1982-83; the fast-attack sub Sea Devil from 1984-86; worked for Commander, Naval Activity United Kingdom from 1986-89; served aboard the boomer Tecumseh from 1989-1992; worked for Commander, Submarine Forces Pacific Fleet from 1992-95; served aboard the fast-attack submarine Portsmouth from 1995 to 1997; worked for Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 from 1997 to 2000; worked for Commander, Submarine Forces Pacific Fleet from 2001 to 2004; served aboard the destroyer Preble from 2004 to 2005; worked for Commander, Pacific Fleet from 2005 to 2007 and became Fleet Forces command master chief on June 30, 2007.

Awards and decorations: Legion of Merit; three Meritorious Service Medals; four Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medals; two Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals; two Navy ‘E’ Ribbons; Five Good Conduct Medals; National Defense Service Medal; Antarctica Service Medal; Humanitarian Service Medal; Sea Service Deployment Ribbon

Navy News Service for Thursday, December 04, 2008

NNS081204-06. CNO Talks with Regional Media in Chile

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41245

DNU — Headlines from around the fleet: Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead visits Chile; The Navy begins rollout of new working uniform.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11868

NNS081204-14. NAVSEA Program Helps Ships Set Record for Fuel Savings

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41251

NNS081204-12. Essex Increases Joint, Combined Interoperability During Fall Patrol

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41244

NNS081204-03. Navy, Air Force Improve Interoperability During Drill in Japan

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41061

NNS081204-05. Naval Academy Awarded Meritorious Unit Commendation

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41238

DNU — USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) returns to Naval Station Norfolk following a four month humanitarian mission.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11870

NNS081204-09. USS Denver Completes First FDNF Patrol

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41232

NNS081204-10. Navajo Code Talker Headlines Yokosuka’s American Indian Heritage Celebration

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41235

NNS081204-08. Ishigaki Community Leaders Visit Essex

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41230

DNU — Commander, Canadian Land Force Atlantic visits USS Freedom (LHA 1)

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11869

NNS081204-07. Sailors Give Back to Hawaiian Community with 19th Annual ‘Operation Aloha’

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41229

NNS081204-11. Yokosuka Sailors, Locals Dance Into Holiday Season

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41242

DNU — Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan’s First Class Association donates their time and gifts to a local orphanage.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11867

NNS081204-04. Religious Assistants Play Supporting Role in Caring for Troops

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41102

DNU — A tribute is paid to the Army for their efforts in the past Army Navy football games.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11871

DNU — Navy Region Northwest holds tryouts for the All-Navy wrestling team.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11872

NNS081204-13. Current Daily News Update

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41258

NNS011210-07. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 04

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=286

Eye on the Fleet – U.S. Navy Photo of The Day

– http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=67089

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NNS081204-06. CNO Talks with Regional Media in Chile

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Rebekah Blowers, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

VALPARAÍSO, Chile (NNS) — The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Adm. Gary Roughead, spoke with regional media in Chile during his visit Dec. 1-2.

Roughead spoke about the importance of building and maintaining global maritime partnerships through counterpart visits and participation in international conferences like Exponaval.

“I think Exponaval is a perfect example of how navies and maritime forces can come together and discuss the issues we see in the future and how we can work more closely together,” Roughead said.

CNO also addressed the re-establishment of Fourth Fleet and how vital it is for the region.

“Look at what Fourth Fleet has done in the last seven or eight months: significant humanitarian assistance, significant disaster relief, significant exercises that have improved our capabilities to operate together – all very important things. Fourth Fleet is a way to be more effective in conducting those types of operations,” Roughead said.

Reporters were very interested in the recent Russian-Venezuelan exercises being conducted in the Caribbean. When asked Roughead replied, “As I see it, the Russian Navy and Venezuelan Navy are exercising together. If it’s for positive reasons, I don’t have any concerns about that.”

For more news from Chief of Naval Operations, visit www.navy.mil/local/cno/.

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NNS081204-14. NAVSEA Program Helps Ships Set Record for Fuel Savings

From Naval Sea Systems Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Naval Sea Systems Command’s (NAVSEA’s) Incentivized Energy Conservation (i-ENCON) Program recorded another banner year for ship fuel conservation in fiscal year 2008, the i-ENCON program manager announced Nov. 28.

According to the i-ENCON Program Manager Hasan Pehlivan, the program helped Navy ships save more than 1 million barrels of oil in fiscal year 2008, enough to fill the 12-gallon gas tanks of more than 3.5 million cars resulting. This resulted in a record cost avoidance of more than $136 million.

The i-ENCON program is one of two major initiatives comprising the Navy’s Energy Conservation (ENCON) Program, spearheaded by NAVSEA’s Marine Engineering team. Committed to reducing ships’ energy consumption by 10 percent each year, i-ENCON is a hands-on “Meet the Fleet” initiative. Program sponsors conduct routine meetings with ship operators to review specific fuel-saving procedures and recommend quarterly awards for ships with the most fuel-efficient operations.

According to Pehlivan, i-ENCON rewards leading fuel conservers among underway surface ships with special recognition and cash incentives up to $90,000. Each quarter, he said, approximately 100 ships qualify for cash awards. Award money is routed to each commanding officer’s discretionary funds, which are often used to buy items like damage control gear or to augment the ships’ welfare and recreation programs.

“The incentives are very important to i-ENCON’s success,” Pehlivan added. “It’s a volunteer program that requires real commitment from ships’ commanding officers, chief engineers and main propulsion assistants. I receive calls and emails from ships every day wanting to know how they can participate and improve their fuel performance.”

For more news from Naval Sea Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsea/.

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NNS081204-12. Essex Increases Joint, Combined Interoperability During Fall Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public Affairs

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) — The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Sasebo after the completion of a successful fall patrol Dec. 4.

The Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESX ESG) departed Sasebo Sept. 19. Throughout the deployment, Essex Sailors, along with Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conducted numerous bilateral training exercises with countries throughout the region in an effort to enhance amphibious interoperability.

“This fall patrol was extremely successful, from training Marines to completion of [major training evolutions],” said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex commanding officer. “The enthusiasm and can-do attitude from Essex Sailors during this patrol was a great example of their professionalism and pride for being onboard.”

Major exercises included the Evaluation Exercise (EVALEX), the Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX), the Korean Interoperability Training Program (KITP), and ANNUALEX 20G.

From Oct. 2 to Oct. 10, EVALEX tested Sailors’ and Marines’ ability to work together during a series of virtually non-stop amphibious warfare evolutions. Well-deck operations included a variety of simulated beach insertions and reconnaissance missions and employed landing craft utility vehicles, combat rubber raiding crafts, landing crafts air-cushioned vehicles, and amphibious assault vehicles. Flight-deck operations were also extensive, drawing from the resources of the 31st MEU’s Marine Attack Squadron 223 (VMA-223) and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262).

“This year’s exercise was particularly important because we were working with a brand new MEU,” said Lt. Delbert Tony, Essex’ assistant operations officer. “It’s the first time we have worked together as a group. It would be a detriment if we had a real mission and had not yet worked together as a team; EVALEX really helps prevent that.”

The exercise tested the perseverance of Sailors and Marines on the flight deck, with flight quarters often lasting up to 12 hours daily, incorporating AV-8B Harrier jet airplanes, CH-53E Sea Stallion, CH-46E Sea Knight, AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1N Huey helicopters. Despite long hours, ESSEX finished EVALEX on a successful note and carried that momentum on to PHIBLEX.

PHIBLEX, which involved two weeks of ground, air and naval integration training with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, took place Oct. 15-27. Training scenarios included live arms fire, small unit tactics, and boat-raid training exercises intended to improve both countries’ collective war-fighting capabilities.

“The work we’ve done with our friends and allies in Japan, Korea and the Philippines is instrumental to our commitment to peace and stability in the Pacific region,” said Canady.

After a successful PHIBLEX, Essex Sailors enjoyed a four-day liberty call in Subic Bay, where they conducted two community friendship-building projects at the New Cabalan Elementary School and the Social Development Center for Girls. Activities included minor repair work, painting, English lessons and personal interaction with the children.

“The main goal is to be ambassadors of goodwill and friendship,” said Cmdr. Chin Dang, Essex’ chaplain. “That goodwill works both ways. When a Sailor goes out and does something good for someone in need, it makes them feel good about themselves, too.”

During KITP, Essex Sailors collaborated with their ROK counterparts through multiple amphibious training scenarios, including simulated air strikes and combined beach support operations.

U.S. and ROK forces hit the beach together, employing more than 50 AAVs and every type of aircraft in the 31st MEU’s arsenal.

“Interoperability is very important,” said Lt. Cmdr. Ben Sigurdson, Essex’ assistant air officer. “It allows both countries to see the inner-workings of the other and how they operate together. We’ve done bilateral exercises like this in the past with ROK forces and learned a lot, and this exercise also proved beneficial.”

ANNUALEX 20G gave Essex Sailors another chance to strengthen ties with one of the closest allies in the region. This time, the U.S. and Japanese Navies focused on enhancing military-to-military relationships, improving command and control, air, undersea and surface warfare through training.

With the deployment winding down in mid-November, Essex Sailors still found a way to stay focused for the ship’s unit level training assessment-certification (ULTRA-C), which tested departmental training teams on their abilities to evaluate themselves.

“We tried to make our scenarios as realistic as possible,” said Capt. Troy Hart, Essex’ executive officer. “There is always some degree of simulation in what we do, but our scenarios and damage are as real as they can be, which is essential to good training.”

Those scenarios challenged Sailors shipwide, forcing multiple departments to work together in a total ship survivability exercise (TSSE) and mass conflagration drill. Both drills were run simultaneously after a simulated missile struck the ship, prompting every department to spring into action.

The successful ULTRA-C was followed by a liberty call in Hong Kong. During the visit, Sailors had the chance to meet local citizens, experience local customs and traditions and enjoy the many recreational activities.

For many Essex Sailors, the cruise was their first taste of life underway.

“This was my first cruise, and I’d say my favorite part was definitely Hong Kong,” said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Alexis Stephens. “It was a great experience to be able to visit the waterfront and take in the scenery. It’s something I definitely wouldn’t be able to do if I wasn’t stationed onboard.”

With the Hong Kong port visit behind them, Essex Sailors had just one more major hurdle before returning home. The ship’s unit level training assessment-engineering (ULTRA-E) ran Dec. 1-4 and tested the mettle of everyone in the engineering department as they went through an intense series of main propulsion equipment drills and fire drills.

Upon arrival in Japan, Essex Sailors immediately began a unit level training assessment-anti-terrorism/force protection (ULTRA-ATFP), designed to test their ability to defend the ship against a terrorist attack. Once completed, many Essex Sailors will be looking forward to spending the holidays at home.

“Being underway so much can be challenging, but it’s a really good feeling to be home for the holidays,” said Seaman Apprentice Justin Mitchell. “I’m really looking forward to just being able to take some time off and relax for a little while because we’ve worked hard for the last few months.”

According to Canady, the hard work exhibited by Essex Sailors throughout the deployment has not gone unnoticed.

“I am proud to command and serve on board Essex. The Sailors here are the most professional and hard working in the Navy,” said Canady. “It’s great to finish fall patrol and come home and spend time, much deserved time, with our family during the holidays.”

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. expeditionary strike group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy’s forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

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NNS081204-03. Navy, Air Force Improve Interoperability During Drill in Japan

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Brian Naranjo, Commander Fleet Activities Misawa Public Affairs

MISAWA, Japan (NNS) — Navy and Air Force personnel increased operational readiness and interoperability during a mass casualty drill that took place as part of a triennial Air Force Unit Compliance Inspection at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Nov. 17.

“Our working with Navy assets here very realistically prepares us for what we’re probably going to be doing down range in a joint environment,” said team leader Air Force Staff Sgt. Kyle Scritchfield.

The veteran airman and firefighter has been assigned to Misawa Air Base since April but recalled working with Sailors on Okinawa 2006-2007. He said “with modern warfare, and all the joint operations that we have,” joint training is the right way to do business on Misawa.

The exercise, aimed at increasing interoperability and strengthening the ties between the sister services, included realistic scenarios. One simulation involved a downed aviator requiring immediate medical assistance from a passerby.

Equipment Operator First Class (SCW) Clifford Martin was told in the morning to “be ready,” but he had no idea what situation exercise planners would throw his way, he said.

“You always plan for the worst, and hope for the best,” Martin said. “Whether it’s an exercise, or a real-life situation, you have to be ready.”

The simulated scenario required Martin reacting when discovering a”downed aviator” who “suffered” leg injuries.

“I’ve been involved in a lot of drills and exercises, but I’d never seen anything like this before,” said the Seabee of the realistic-looking “injuries.”

Martin, a graduate of the Seabee Combat Lifesaving Course, sprung into action, providing necessary “lifesaving” support. In addition, he ensured emergency services were notified and stabilized the patient until first responders could arrive.

Once the Misawa Air Base firefighting team arrived, Martin worked closely – as needed – with the team to monitor the aviator’s condition prior to a medical evacuation.

“He was a great help relaying the information through 9-1-1, which freed up time on-scene. When we got there, he had a good grip on what was going on, and he relayed a lot of information. Instead of going in blind, it gave us a jump start on the situation,” said Scritchfield.

In the case of the exercise, the interoperability of the services proved critical. Members of the evaluation team credited Martin with “saving” the aviator’s life.

“EO1 [Martin] did a great job,” said Chief Damage Controlman (SW/AW) Danny Kenney, a member of the Misawa Air Base Exercise Evaluation Team which critiqued all first responders during the event.

“His response was really good. Based on the speed of his reaction, this poor aviator has a great chance to survive.”

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Misawa, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfamisawa/.

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NNS081204-05. Naval Academy Awarded Meritorious Unit Commendation

From U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) — The Naval Academy received the Meritorious Unit Commendation from the chief of naval personnel (CNP) Dec. 3.

Vice Adm. Mark E. Ferguson, CNP, presented the citation to the more than 4,000-strong Brigade of Midshipmen during a lunchtime ceremony held in the academy’s dining facility, King Hall.

The award recognized the academy’s significant achievements from June 1, 2007, through Aug. 31, 2008. The Meritorious Unit Commendation recognizes superior mission accomplishment and is comparable to achievements which would merit the presentation of a Bronze Star Medal to an individual.

The award, signed by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead, specifically cited the academy’s leadership development and alignment with the fleet; record low plebe-summer attrition; highest graduation rate of any service academy; academic and athletic achievements; community service; diversity outreach efforts; and serving as an institution of national prominence, including hosting the 2007 Annapolis Middle East Peace Conference.

According to Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Adm. Jeffrey Fowler, “This award is a testimony of the focus and hard work of the Naval Academy team, exemplified by the professionalism of the Brigade of Midshipmen and the dedication of the great faculty and staff we have at this national institution.”

This is the Naval Academy’s second Meritorious Unit Commendation. The last time the Naval Academy received the Meritorious Unit Commendation was in 1998.

For more news from U.S. Naval Academy, visit www.navy.mil/local/usna/.

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NNS081204-09. USS Denver Completes First FDNF Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Joshua J. Wahl, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Japan

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) — The Austin-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESX ARG), returned to its forward-deployed home of Sasebo, Japan, Dec. 2, concluding its first patrol as a member of the Navy’s forward deployed naval forces (FDNF).

Denver, which replaced USS Juneau (LPD 10) as the Navy’s only permanently forward deployed LPD, successfully wrapped up three intense months of arduous amphibious exercises in the Asia-Pacific region.

According to Denver’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Kent D. Whalen, the deployment symbolized the Navy’s commitment to peace and stability in the region and helped foster stronger relations with allies in Southeast Asia.

“The Denver Navy-Marine Corps took great leaps to improve interoperability, increase readiness and continue our professional relationships with our allied armed forces,” Whalen said. “I couldn’t be prouder of what the crew of this great warship accomplished through hard work, both ship and shore, training and community building.”

Denver and units of the ESX ESG departed Sasebo for the fall patrol after a summer maintenance and training period. Okinawa was the first stop, as Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) embarked and immediately joined their Navy teammates for a three-day evaluation exercise (EVAL-EX), prior to weighing anchor and continuing on its fall patrol.

With the embarked MEU and equipment, Denver arrived on station in the Republic of Philippines in early October, to participate in the bilateral amphibious landing exercise PHIBLEX. Denver conducted several operations with Philippine Marines including: helicopter raids, boat launches, and off-loading Marines and equipment in the Subic Bay area.

Members of the crew took advantage of the opportunity to spread goodwill, thanks to a community service project while visiting Subic Bay. They delivered clothes, school supplies, repaired campus buildings and played games with the children of Cabalan National High School.

“Helping the children who are not as fortunate as us was the best part of the underway,” said Quartermaster 3rd Class (SW) Carlitos Cirilo. “I hope by us being there and helping out, we could really make a positive influence in their lives.”

With the completion of PHIBLEX, Denver continued with the ESX ESG as they steamed to the Republic of Korea for a chance to enhance joint combat readiness during a five-day Korean interoperability training program exercise.

“The whole Denver blue-green team really came together throughout the scope of exercises and amphibious assessments we endured this underway,” said Whalen. “The fall patrol went very smoothly. Denver never missed a beat.”

Sailors of the transport dock manned the rails during the ship’s homecoming at Fleet Activities Sasebo. As a successful underway was nearly behind them, Denver friends and family members were on the pier, eagerly waiting to greet their Sailors.

“I am so happy to be back,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (FMF/SW) Arturo J. Adame. “My wife and two children are my strength when I’m out there underway. Seeing their eyes light up and those big smiles reminds me every time why my job is so important and why we are here.”

For more news from Essex Expeditionary Strike Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd2/.

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NNS081204-10. Navajo Code Talker Headlines Yokosuka’s American Indian Heritage Celebration

By Ben Avey, Commander Fleet Activities Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — Sailors, Marines and civilians celebrated National American Indian Heritage Month at an event featuring a World War II Navajo code talker, a Sailor and a civilian — all members of the Navajo tribe — at Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) Chapel of Hope Nov. 13.

National American Indian Heritage Month is an opportunity for Americans to learn more about the history and heritage of its native people. Opportunities such as these are welcomed by Navajo tribal member Yeoman 2nd Class Priscilla Nelson.

Raised on a Navajo reservation in Arizona, Nelson was pleased the Navy was taking time to recognize different cultures by observing various ethnic heritage and history months.

“It recognizes each individual race by celebrating their heritage each month, like November is ours,” said Nelson. “Be proud of who you are, where your coming from; embrace your heritage.”

She volunteered to speak at the event and to model her pow-wow fancy shawl dancer outfit to help teach her shipmates about her native culture. In addition to offering insights into her life, Nelson helped to introduce the featured speaker, a fellow Navajo and World War II Marine Corps code talker, Samuel Smith Sr.

“I was told the guest speaker was going to be a Navajo code talker. That meant the world to me because I have grandfathers, uncles, my clan, who served in World War II as code talkers, and to meet one in person, to speak to a group of Sailors and Marines is a very big event for me,” Nelson said.

Smith was greeted with a rousing ovation and gave a detailed description of his life in the service of his country. Eager to become part of the war effort in the summer of 1943, Smith lied about his age in order to join the United States Marine Corps. In short order, he was sent to Oceanside, Calif., where he began training at Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base to become a member of the legendary code talkers.

Serving two years and nine months in the Pacific with the 4th Marine Division and seeing combat in the Marshall Islands, Saipan, Tinian and Iwo Jima, it was an emotional moment when he returned.

“I’m thankful, I’m honored, to be here talking with you,” said Smith.

Along with 40 other Marines in attendance, Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Alexander A. Carlson spent his lunch hour at the event to hear Smith speak.

“It’s such a great opportunity, just to hear the story, to thank an old Marine. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime,” Carlson said.

The event also featured Navajo tribal member Arlene Wise.

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfay/.

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NNS081204-08. Ishigaki Community Leaders Visit Essex

By Lt. Denver Applehans, Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) — Several community leaders from Ishigaki, Japan, visited USS Essex (LHD 2) Nov. 28 for a tour and lunch while Essex steamed by the island community.

Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, welcomed the group and thanked them for coming out to tour Essex and learn more about the U.S. Navy and how Sailors work with their Japanese allies.

“It was a great opportunity to show these community leaders from Ishigaki what we can do as an ESG,” said Landolt. “It is through face-to-face meetings like this that we educate and broaden leaders’ knowledge on the stability types of operations we bring to the region.”

The trip included a short presentation on how the Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is assembled and the capabilities the ships and marine expeditionary unit possess.

The group then toured Essex from the bridge down to the well deck and learned how the Essex is capable of a wide-spectrum of operations from launching aircraft and small boats to supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Essex is the flagship of Amphibious Force 7th Fleet and is forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan. Amphibious Force 7th Fleet is the Navy’s only forward Deployed amphibious force commander and is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan.

For more news from Commander, Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/ctf76/.

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NNS081204-07. Sailors Give Back to Hawaiian Community with 19th Annual ‘Operation Aloha’

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Hight, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

HALEIWA, Hawaii (NNS) — Sailors from Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station, Pacific (NCTAMS PAC) joined volunteers to provide and serve a hot holiday meal to the homeless in Haleiwa, Hawaii on Nov. 27.

The NCTAMS PAC Sailors, along with the Waialua Community Association and Girl Scouts from Troops 360 and 530, shared Thanksgiving spirit with others by giving back to the community.

“This is the nineteenth straight year we have hosted Operation Aloha,” said Capt. Janet Stewart, commanding officer, NCTAMS PAC. “Everyone at the command looks forward to this event each year.”

Operation Aloha is a Thanksgiving Day tradition during which volunteers offer a holiday meal, including entertainment, for Oahu’s North Shore community.

Sailors and civilian employees along with their family members dedicated long hours throughout the year to raise funds and collect canned food items in preparation for the event.

“This year we raised just over $18,000 and collected 5,000 pounds of non-perishable food items,” said Lt. Ralph Stephens, NCTAMS PAC technical control division officer and this year’s coordinator. “We have also received many charitable contributions, including 30 turkeys, from local companies.”

Every year, the Waialua Community Center hosts the Thanksgiving dinner. With the help of children from St. Michael’s School and Wahiawa Girl Scouts the simple gymnasium is transformed into a festive hall.

“It’s great to see the children willing to help out so openly,” said Stephens. “Not only are we making an impact on the lives of those less fortunate, but also the lives of the community’s youth.”

“This is just one of the many great things our military does throughout the year for the local community,” said U.S. Rep. Mazie K. Hirono. “Residents of all ages open their hearts for each other and we become one big family.”

At the end of the day, more than 400 people enjoyed the meal put together by the NCTAMS PAC team.

“In 26 years in the military, this is by far the most heart-warming experience that I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of,” said Stewart.

For more news from U.S. Pacific Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cpf/.

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NNS081204-11. Yokosuka Sailors, Locals Dance Into Holiday Season

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Derek J. Hurder, Fleet Public Affairs Center Japan

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — Sailors from various Yokosuka commands volunteered to spread holiday cheer to disabled Japanese locals during a “Disco Dance Party” Dec. 3 at the Yokosuka Social Welfare Center.

The community relations project (COMREL), sponsored by the local Miura Fujisawa Shinkin Bank, attracted more than 50 Sailors who spent the day dancing to American and Japanese pop music with members and students of the center.

Participants were eager to participate in the event and teach local community members some dance moves.

“For me, it’s an honor to be here and show these people that we care,” said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (SW) Abraham Aguilarherrera, a Mexicali, Mexico, native currently stationed aboard USS McCampbell (DDG 85). “We’re here to build a relationship with the community. If I can do that, I’m happy.”

“I love Japan, and I thought coming to the COMREL would be that much more fun,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Nicholas Schaaf of Chicago, also stationed aboard McCampbell. “I try to take full advantage of interacting with people and welcoming them just as much as they’ve welcomed me.”

During a break in the music, the visiting Sailors and their hosts enjoyed a magic show, a quick game of basketball and some much-needed refreshments.

Schaaf said he was excited to help his host community.

“I love dancing in my off time,” he said, “so coming in here and teaching them a few steps is fun.”

“We’re here to build a relationship with the community,” Aguilarherrera added. “You just feel the moment with them when you make them happy. They’re a pretty good community here. They have a good relationship with everybody. I’m just trying to make at least one day a little better.”

Schaaf agreed.

“It makes me happy that we’re making them happy. It’s a mutual thing.”

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfay/.

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NNS081204-04. Religious Assistants Play Supporting Role in Caring for Troops

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Vaughn Larson, Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) — Chaplain’s assistants (CA) and religious program specialists (RP) play an important role in allowing chaplains to focus on his or her three main missions – counsel, teach and preach.

“An RP or CA are the eyes for the chaplain,” explained Religious Programs Specialist 3rd Class Jason Lail, an RP for Joint Task Force (JTF) Guantanamo’s Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion. “I get a sense of the morale. Sometimes it’s easier for an enlisted [Sailor] to come up to another enlisted rather than the chaplain.”

Army Pfc. Alecia Stevenson, a CA for the 525th Military Police Battalion, agreed.

“I find I can relate,” said Stevenson. “If you want to sit down and talk, we’re always here.”

In addition to a friendly ear, these assistants can offer Sailors religious literature. If the discussion warrants, the chaplain can be consulted.

Army Staff Sgt. Dilfred Pascual, a CA from the Puerto Rico Army National Guard, oversees Lail and Stevenson in their duties.

One of the most important duties for a CA or RP is to provide security for the chaplains, who do not carry or use weapons. That is more a concern for the battlefield than at the JTF, according to Lail. He escorts chaplains through the “pods” inside the detainee camps.

Assistants also help set up the chapel for worship services and other religious offerings.

“I’m not Catholic, but I know how to set up for a small mass and an extremely large mass,” Lail said. “As a religious program specialist, you can hold onto your faith, but you have to work with all faiths. You could work for a Jewish chaplain or a Mormon chaplain. You have to know about those faiths.”

Lail has another duty – distributing religious items such as prayer caps, prayer beads and prayer rugs to enemy combatants detained by the JTF.

“Those items are not necessarily sacred in any way,” Lail explained. “It assists them with their practice. It’s also good for one person to know about why these items are important to [the detainees] – the guards have other duties to be concerned with.”

Lail is mindful of his behavior because his actions reflect on the chaplain section.

Assistants are also involved in morale efforts, such as cookouts for personnel.

This is the first deployment for both Lail and Stevenson. While not quite what they expected, both said they have grown into their roles here.

“It’s a good job,” Stevenson said. “It’s good to be here for the Soldiers.”

“I like what I do – I like it a lot,” Lail said. “I’m helping people, maybe indirectly. It really is all about the troops.”

For more news from Joint Task Force Guantanamo, visit www.navy.mil/local/jtfgtmo/.

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NNS081204-13. Current Daily News Update

From the Navy News Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Daily News Update features six newscasts each day – one two-minute newscast and five one-minute newscasts.

Two-minute newscast-

- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan’s First Class Association donates their time and gifts to a local orphanage.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11867

First one-minute newscast-

- Headlines from around the fleet: Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead visits Chile; The Navy begins rollout of new working uniform.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11868

Second one-minute newscast-

- Commander, Canadian Land Force Atlantic visits USS Freedom (LHA 1).

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11869

Third one-minute newscast-

- USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) returns to Naval Station Norfolk following a four-month humanitarian mission.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11870

Fourth one-minute newscast-

- A tribute is paid to the Army for their efforts in the past Army Navy football games.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11871

Fifth one-minute newscast-

- Navy Region Northwest holds tryouts for the All-Navy wrestling team.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11872

Defense Media Activity Anacostia produces six Daily News Update (DNU) newscasts: a two-minute newscast and five one-minute newscasts. DNU 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. DNU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS).

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NNS011210-07. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 04

From the Navy News Service

1918 – President Woodrow Wilson sails in USS George Washington for Paris Peace Conference.

1943 – Aircraft from USS Lexington (CV 16) and USS Independence (CVL 22) attack Kwajalein Atoll, sinking four Japanese ships and damaging five others while only three U.S. ships suffered damage.

1944 – USS Flasher (SS 249) sinks Japanese destroyer Kishinami and damages a merchant ship in the South China Sea. Flasher is only U.S. submarine to sink over 100,000 tons of enemy shipping in World War II.

1965 – Gemini 7, piloted by Cmdr. James A. Lovell, is launched. This flight consisted of 206 orbits at an altitude of 327 km, lasting 13 days and 18 hours. HS-11 helicopters from USS Wasp (CVS 18) lead the recovery efforts.

1983 – Aircraft from USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) and USS Independence (CV 62) strike against the anti-aircraft positions in Lebanon that fired on U.S. aircraft Dec. 3. Two U.S. Navy planes are shot down in the strike.

For more information about Naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

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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 – Anacostia, 2713 Mitscher Rd. SW, Anacostia Annex, D.C., 20373-5819. 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 the Naval Historical Center’s Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342.

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Navy News Service for Tuesday, December 02, 2008

NNS081202-01. CNO Visits Chile, Attends Exponaval Conference

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41203

DNU — The Secretary of the Navy visits USS San Antonio (LPD 17).

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11845

NNS081202-09. Chief of Naval Operations Names Next Generation Enterprise Network Chief

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41219

DNU — Headlines from around the fleet: Tricare extends a filing waiver; The departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs launch a new website for wounded warriors.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11844

DNU — USS Freedom (LCS 1) transits through 15 locks.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11843

DNU — USS Nassau (LHA 4) sends message to support Naval Academy football team.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11847

NNS081202-07. NAVFAC Southwest Recognizes Safety Excellence

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41156

NNS081202-06. Yokosuka Opens Energy-Efficient, Environmentally Friendly Power Plant

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41169

NNS081202-05. Advancement Information, Advice Available Free Online

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41195

DNU — USS George Washington (CVN 73) sailors move off the ship and into the barracks.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11848

NNS081202-04. Essex Sailors, Marines Sharpen Amphibious Warfare Skills During Fall Patrol

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41185

NNS081202-02. Bataan Wraps Up First Phase of Pre-Deployment Work-ups

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41123

NNS081202-03. Maritime Civil Affairs Sailors Dig Up Past to Learn Lessons For Future Missions

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41159

NNS081202-08. Bataan SKs, PCs Preparing For Merger

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41197

DNU — The commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Command anticipates more Seabees in Rota, Spain.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11846

NNS081201-05. Current Daily News Update

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41198

NNS011210-05. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 02

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=284

Eye on the Fleet – U.S. Navy Photo of The Day

– http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=67021

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NNS081202-01. CNO Visits Chile, Attends Exponaval Conference

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Rebekah Blowers, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

VALPARAÍSO, Chile (NNS) — The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead is visiting Chilean Naval personnel and bases and will participate in the 2008 International Exponaval Conference in Chile this week.

While in Valparaíso, CNO met with his counterpart, the Chilean Commander in Chief, Adm. Rodolfo Codina and other Chilean Navy leaders. Additionally, he toured the off-shore Patrol Vessel (OPV) PZM-81 “Piloto Pardo,” the Type-23 Frigate “Lynch” and observed a “change of the guard ceremony” at the Chilean Naval Academy.

The conference includes naval leaders from 28 countries throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America. Exponaval provides a platform for meeting and exchanging ideas and experiences among the participants.

CNO said conferences like this are essential to keeping the lines of communication open between the U.S. Navy and its maritime partners and friends around the world. CNO also praised his Chilean Navy hosts.

“Its important for both of our navies to be able to meet and to talk about the opportunities we have before us and for me to be able to express my appreciation to Admiral Codina for the great work that his Navy does in so many places. And, we will look at ways we can continue to do more together,” Roughead said.

For more news from Chief of Naval Operations, visit www.navy.mil/local/cno/.

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NNS081202-09. Chief of Naval Operations Names Next Generation Enterprise Network Chief

By Eddie Riley, Next Generation Enterprise Network Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead named the commander of Naval Air Forces Atlantic on Nov. 20 to the lead the Department of the Navy’s largest, enterprise-wide IT initiative as the new Assistant Chief of Naval Operations for the Next Generation Enterprise Network System Program Office (NGEN SPO).

As ACNO (NGEN), Rear Adm. John W. Goodwin will oversee the DoN’s development, acquisition and deployment of NGEN – the follow-on to the Navy Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI) contract that ends Sept. 30, 2010.

The NGEN SPO, a first-of-its-kind organization in the DoN, was approved by the CNO and CMC earlier this year. It brings together the DoN’s governance areas for NGEN – policy, resources and requirements, acquisition, and fleet readiness, support and operations – under a single command. The elevated coordination at the ACNO level will ensure stakeholders are included in the design and implementation process and help facilitate a smooth transition from NMCI to NGEN with continuity of services to end users.

The SPO includes all of the functions of the existing NGEN, NMCI and OCONUS Navy Enterprise Network (ONE-NET) program offices. It resides within the Navy staff, leveraging the institutional support of both CNO and Headquarters Marine Corps staffs.

Goodwin will join the NGEN SPO early next year. Interim ACNO (NGEN), Rear Adm. David G. Simpson, will lead the SPO until Goodwin arrives. Simpson continues to set the foundation for the office as the NGEN resource sponsor in his assigned position as the director of Navy Networks on the deputy chief of Naval Operations for Communication Networks (OPNAV N6) staff. Marine Corps Col. David M. Hagopian will continue to serve as the deputy director, NGEN SPO.

The NGEN initiative is focused on re-establishing government design and operational control over Naval networks, creating a more secure and agile intranet, and recruiting and developing the future Naval IT workforce. It is a central pillar in the department’s goal of building the Naval Network Environment (NNE), the DoN’s vision for a highly secure reliable enterprise IT system that provides ready access to data, services and applications when and where it is needed. The NGEN SPO will coordinate continued service for existing shore and garrison networks, including NMCI; support consolidation of legacy networks; and direct the transition to NGEN while providing implementation oversight to enable enhanced capabilities within the future NNE by 2016.

Goodwin, a native of Dublin, Ga., graduated from the University of South Carolina, commissioned in May 1975, and designated a naval aviator in 1977. Goodwin’s first assignment was to the Attack Squadron 66, flying the A-7E Corsair. He completed deployments with Carrier Air Wing 14 and USS Constellation (CV 64) while assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 25, flying the FA-18 Hornet. Goodwin’s first command was Strike Fighter Squadron 94 in August 1992. He has served as executive officer of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), and commanding officer of USS Rainier (AOE 7), USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), and Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group.

The NGEN initiative is currently in the pre-decision phase with a requirements document approved earlier this year by the CNO and CMC. A system specification, currently under development, will further define the required system functions and performance parameters. The acquisition approach, currently under draft, is expected to be based on a notional segmentation concept that breaks existing network functions into groups and separates services into those that may be run by the DoN and others that could be outsourced. Under the current NMCI contract, network services are provided by one prime contractor. The DoN has released four Requests for Information and held one Industry Day to get feedback from the Information Technology community on the NGEN initiative.

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.

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NNS081202-07. NAVFAC Southwest Recognizes Safety Excellence

By Lee H. Saunders, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) — Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest recognized individuals and groups in the command Nov. 3 for their exceptional safety performance with the first NAVFAC Safety Through Awards and Recognition (STAR) ceremony in San Diego.

“We are here today to acknowledge and reward exceptional safety performance, both at the individual and organizational levels, throughout NAVFAC Southwest,” said Capt. Robert Fahey, NAVFAC Southwest executive officer. “This ceremony allows us to come together as a team to acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of these outstanding individuals and groups.”

Award categories included individual annual employee safety excellence, work center and code annual safety recognition, public works department (PWD) and resident officer in charge of construction (ROICC) safety excellence and command annual safe employee excellence.

STAR awards for individual annual employee safety excellence went to one employee at each NAVFAC Southwest PWD and ROICC office. Criteria for individual annual employee safety excellence STAR Awards were outstanding sustained safety program support and three years with no injuries or significant property damage. STAR Awards for work center and code annual safety recognition went to shops and self-help divisions with no injuries and illnesses; 90 percent training completion; no property or vehicle damage exceeding $10,000; and 90 percent medical monitoring attainment. STAR awards for PWDs and ROICCs safety excellence awards went to PWDs, ROICCs, integrated product teams, business lines, support lines, and command staff with 25 percent reduction from previous year’s injuries and illnesses; no property or vehicle damage exceeding $10,000; no contractor fatalities; 90 percent training completion; no Class A, B, or C crane mishaps; and 90 percent medical monitoring attainment.

Nelio G. Alcantara, NAVFAC Southwest electrical engineer, received the top STAR Award for command annual safe employee excellence as well as a Meritorious Civil Service Award for his strong support of the command’s safety program. Alcantara’s proactive leadership led to the successful execution of 49 construction contracts and task orders that executed 158,000 man-hours with no lost time due to accidents or property damage.

“The program is intended to recognize individuals and groups that make significant contributions to the command’s safety program,” said Capt. Steve Wirsching, NAVFAC Southwest commanding officer. “Focus is on innovation and acts that promote a safety culture and advancement in community safety awareness.”

For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navfachq/.

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NNS081202-06. Yokosuka Opens Energy-Efficient, Environmentally Friendly Power Plant

By Mark Elrod, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) officially opened its new, energy-efficient co-generation plant during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 12.

“This project more than doubles the amount of 60 hertz power, which is the power that the ships use, and more than doubles the power at CFAY,” said Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Far East Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Kiwus.

“Also, this is going to be done at a cost savings, and it’s very friendly and very good for the environment. So, there are all kinds of benefits to this project. It’s a fantastic project. The results of this project are phenomenal.”

The Co-Gen plant is expected to greatly increase energy efficiency at CFAY, which will use expanding gases from combusted fuel to turn turbines to create electricity, according to NAVFAC Far East Resource Efficiency Manager Michael Gabiga.

“A ribbon-cutting, normally, is to commemorate the end of a successful project,” said Noresco Construction Service Project Management Director Brian Neely. “In the case of an [energy saving performance contracting project], it’s kind of just the very beginning of a long-term relationship. That’s the 20-year service phase that we’re going to go into.”

“Over the next 20 years in a joint effort between NAVFAC Far East utilities department and Noresco Energy Advance, we’re going to own, operate, maintain, keep this plant running and making steam and power for the plant,” Neely said.

The co-generation (Co-Gen) plant project took more than three years to complete. During that time, those involved say they faced unique challenges when working to finish the project within the scheduled timeline, such as the language barrier between contractors who speak different languages and having to build a power plant that would generate both 50 and 60 hertz electricity.

“This is one, if not the largest [energy saving performance contracting project] ever completed,” said Noresco Construction Service Vice President, Jerry Riley. “It was large; it was complicated; it was time-sensitive; it was mission-critical, and it involved such a wide range of entities and individuals that all had to come together to serve a common objective.”

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfay/.

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NNS081202-05. Advancement Information, Advice Available Free Online

By Ed Barker, Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) — Sailors prepping for advancement have all the tools they need available free of charge via Navy resources, including the Navy Advancement Center, but some sites on the Internet are charging Sailors money for advancement information.

Perhaps unknowingly, Sailors are spending their money by paying for what is available free of charge. The most current and authoritative advancement information for active-duty and Reserve Sailors is available from their command career counselors and visiting the Navy Advancement Center’s Web site at https://www.advancement.cnet.navy.mil.

“Everything you need to be successful on the advancement exam is available for free from the Navy,” said Master Chief Electrician’s Mate Robert McCombs, command master chief for Naval Education and Training Professional Development and Technology Center (NETPDTC), Pensacola, Fla. “In fact, our sites are where the commercial venues get a lot of their information. Sailors don’t need to go out and buy commercial products in order to advance.”

Professional military knowledge and rating-specific references for advancement are just a click away. Two of the most popular products available through the Advancement Center Web site are the Sailor’s profile sheet and the Advancement Exam Strategy Guide, said McCombs.

The profile sheet is specific to the individual Sailor and uses results from previous examinations to show the Sailor where his or her weaknesses are in comparison to their peers. The report shows them what areas they need to improve in order to be competitive on the test. Sailors can use their profile sheets to build their study program by topic and subtopic.

The Advancement Exam Strategy Guide contains a bibliography specific to the examination that the Sailor will take.

“A Sailor can go to the exam section, look up their specialty and download their information including the bibliography,” said McCombs.

“We give them the references we use for exam questions, so it’s just a matter of becoming familiar with the material.”

To help Sailors understand what skills and knowledge exam developers are assessing, specific rating information is broken down by paygrade into topic and subject areas for all exams in the rating. This section of the Web site also includes information on “how to prepare for and take an advancement exam.”

“If a Sailor uses their past profile sheet(s), which shows their weak areas compared to their peers, along with the bibliography and topics/subtopics, they can develop a more focused study product than any commercial product can provide,” said McCombs.

Kirk Schultz, head of Advancement Assessment Concepts at NETPDTC, said that there are many other Navy-sponsored Web sites Sailors can visit to help with their advancement needs.

“Since just about everything has gone electronic, many Navy and Department of Defense instructions are available through the Web. Additionally, we intend soon to provide the capability for Sailors to link to many of their references directly from the advancement site,” said Schultz.

“Our site has features and helpful tools to better prepare for upcoming exams such as access exam to statistics by rating, non-resident training courses, as well as final multiple computations charts,” said McCombs.

Sailors without direct access to a computer should see their educational services officers or command career counselors for instructions on where computer access can be obtained and for other information they need to prepare for their next advancement examination.

For more news from Naval Education and Training Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnet/.

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NNS081202-04. Essex Sailors, Marines Sharpen Amphibious Warfare Skills During Fall Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) — The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Okinawa, Japan, to debark the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Nov 30.

“When we began fall patrol in September, many of the 31st MEU Marines had never been on board a Navy ship. We gave them a warm Essex welcome and then fully integrated them into the shipboard routine,” said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex commanding officer.

“The Marines worked closely with Sailors to accomplish a very challenging fall patrol that sharpened our amphibious warfare skills continuing to make Essex “Always Ready,” for any operational tasking.”

Sailors and Marines worked side-by-side throughout the deployment, as they conducted extensive, bilateral exercises with Japan, the Republic of Korea and the Republic of the Philippines, and enjoyed liberty in various ports throughout Asia.

Major exercises included the Amphibious Landing Exercise, conducted with the Philippines; ANNUALEX 20G, conducted with Japan; and the Korean Interoperability Training Program.

“It was an eye-opening experience being on board for the first time,” said Lance Cpl. Jacob Jordan, from Canon City, Colo. “I had to learn a lot, but it all paid off in the end because we learned what we’re capable of as a team. The camaraderie between Sailors and Marines is stronger than you think. When we’re on shore and they’re at sea you don’t see it, but that all changes when we’re on board together.”

According to Chief Boatswain’s Mate (SW/AW) Christopher White, the kind of integrated training Sailors and Marines took part in on fall patrol is essential to mission readiness.

“This training is important because we need our guys to be better prepared when a real scenario presents itself,” said White. “You never know when you’ll be called upon to do this stuff for real, and maintaining a high level of readiness is paramount.”

Jordan, a maintenance specialist with the 31st MEU, agreed.

“It’s our job to make sure we have good communications with the Sailors and the Marines on the beach. “Training is a big part of making sure we know how to do our job and making sure they have what they need.”

Sailors and Marines also enjoyed liberty together in Subic Bay, Philippines; Okinawa, Japan, and Hong Kong. Deployments like fall patrol provide an excellent opportunity to experience the unique culture of many locations, explained Jordan.

“Hong Kong was awesome,” said Jordan. “There are so many people there from different cultures…from London, Australia, America, and the architecture is just spectacular.”

While Jordan will not join the MEU when they return to Essex next year for spring patrol, he said he’s looking forward to his next opportunity to deploy on a Navy ship, wherever it may be.

The post-patrol offload began early Nov. 29 with the fly-off of the 31st MEU’s Aviation Combat Element (ACE), during which 31st MEU and Essex Combat Cargo Marines off-loaded all the ACE’s remaining arsenal of aircraft, including CH-53E Sea Stallion, CH-46E Sea Knight, AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1 Huey helicopters.

The offload continued throughout the day, as they moved approximately 60 pieces of rolling stock, and 300 pieces of MEU cargo, capping off another successful fall patrol.

The 31st MEU is the only permanently forward-deployed MEU, maintaining a presence in the Pacific Ocean at all times as part of III Marine Expeditionary Force and is based out of Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler, Okinawa, Japan.

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. expeditionary strike group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy’s forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

For more news from USS Essex (LHD 2), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd2/.

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NNS081202-02. Bataan Wraps Up First Phase of Pre-Deployment Work-ups

From USS Bataan Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) — The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) returned to its homeport of Norfolk Nov. 23 following a successful expeditionary strike group integration exercise (ESGINT) with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22 MEU) and vessels from the Bataan Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG).

ESGINT is a pre-deployment exercise designed to test the fundamental capabilities and shipboard interoperability between vessels from the strike group and the 22 MEU.

“This underway gave Bataan as well as other participants of the Bataan ESG Blue/Green team the opportunity to work together and formulate a more cohesive combat team,” said Lt. Ronald Ocheltree, assistant operations officer. “It was also an experience that we will all learn from and will continue to use to build our teams for future work-ups, ultimately leading to a successful Fifth Fleet deployment.”

Bataan’s Sailors and Marines will continue preparing for deployment by completing a composite unit training exercise (COMPUTEX) and certification exercise (CERTEX) early next year.

“Our main mission aboard Bataan is as the Marine Air Group Task Force (MAGTF), a mission that consists of a complete package that will allow us to deploy with a complete and trained command group and air and logistics element in which teamwork is the base of our foundation to become a combat-ready ESG,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Stewart Stout, of the 22 MEU.

The Bataan Expeditionary Strike Group is comprised of Commander, Amphibious Squadron 2; Bataan; USS Porter (DDG 78); USS James E. Williams (DDG 95); USS Anzio (CG 68); USS Ponce (LPD 15); USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43); Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22; Tactical Squadron 21; Fleet Surgical Team 6; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2; ACU 4; and Beachmaster Unit 2.

Bataan is the fifth ship of the Navy’s Wasp-class ships. She was commissioned Sept. 20, 1997 and is the second U.S. Navy warship to bear the name. CVL-29 was an Independence-class light aircraft carrier that was commissioned in November 1943. After serving in both World War II and the Korean conflict, CVL-29 was decommissioned in 1954.

For more news from USS Bataan (LHD 5), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd5/.

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NNS081202-03. Maritime Civil Affairs Sailors Dig Up Past to Learn Lessons For Future Missions

By Lt. Joshua Frey, Maritime Civil Affairs Squadron 1 Public Affairs

IMPERIAL BEACH, Calif. (NNS) — To help prepare for eventual deployments, Sailors from Maritime Civil Affairs Squadron (MCAS) 1 completed training Nov. 20 on the Works Progress Administration (WPA) programs conducted in San Diego during the 1930s.

During the last month, Sailors from various maritime civil affairs teams (MCATs) learned about federally-funded civic assistance projects conducted by the WPA as a recovery effort during the Great Depression. By creating and upgrading public parks, roads, monuments and buildings, the WPA helped create jobs and drastically decrease unemployment across the United States.

As part of their training, MCAS-1 personnel visited San Diego State University (SDSU) for a tour led by Anthropology Chairperson, Dr. Seth Mallios.

“We set up the tour to help us get ideas from a civic assistance mission that took place in our own country in the not-too-distant past,” said Maritime Civil Affairs Team Leader Lt.j.g. Gabriel Gomez, a civil engineering corps officer.

In 2006, Mallios, an archaeologist, uncovered a series of previously unknown murals at SDSU that were created by local artists working for the WPA in the 1930s. The murals were discovered during upgrades to older buildings at SDSU, many of which were built by the WPA, including the original Aztec Football Stadium.

“The New Deal is very important in American history because it enabled the country to recover from the greatest economic disaster it had ever faced,” said Mallios. “The structures in San Diego and at San Diego State University are physical reminders how the country recovered.”

For more news from Maritime Civil Affairs Squadron 1, visit www.navy.mil/local/necc.

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NNS081202-08. Bataan SKs, PCs Preparing For Merger

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Pedro Rodriguez, USS Bataan Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) — Storekeepers (SKs) and postal clerks (PCs) aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD5) are preparing to face the challenges of the newest rating merger in the United States Navy effective Oct. 1, 2009.

The rating merger to form the new logistics specialist (LS) rate has been approved, according to NAVADMIN 326/08, released Nov. 17.

“SKs and PCs already work together here on the ship,” said Bataan’s Stock Control Expediter, Storekeeper 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jorge Bañuelos-Gonzales of San Fernando Valley, Calif. “I think with this merger, we will find faster ways to expedite parts through the mail that are critical to the ship’s mission.”

Bataan’s supply department has conducted the cross-training necessary to make a smooth transition.

PCs and SKs work alongside one another to ensure all personnel have the same working knowledge to support the mission.

PCs are becoming familiar with the new LS rating – tracking orders and shipping and receiving supplies – while working in a division previously run by storekeepeers.

“I’ve learned that some of the things we (PCs) do are very similar, but others have more responsibilities,” said Postal Clerk 3rd Class Edwin Rumley, ship’s post master.

Storekeepers are also working in the ship’s post office to become familiar with their new duties and responsibilities.

The merger is intended to improve efficiency and support optimal manning. Some additional anticipated benefits include reduced infrastructure costs and improved customer service.

The merger will apply to all active-duty personnel, full time support and selected Reserve Sailors in the SK and PC ratings.

For more news from USS Bataan (LHD 5), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd5/.

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NNS081201-05. Current Daily News Update

From the Navy News Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Daily News Update features six newscasts each day – one two-minute newscast and five one-minute newscasts.

Two-minute newscast-

- USS Freedom (LCS 1) transits through 15 locks.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11843

First one-minute newscast-

- Headlines from around the fleet: Tricare extends a filing waiver; The departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs launch a new Web site for wounded warriors.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11844

Second one-minute newscast-

- The Secretary of the Navy, Donald C. Winter, visits USS San Antonio (LPD 17).

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11845

Third one-minute newscast-

- The commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Command anticipates more Seabees in Rota, Spain.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11846

Fourth one-minute newscast-

- USS Nassau (LHA 4) sends message to support Naval Academy football team.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11847

Fifth one-minute newscast-

- USS George Washington (CVN 73) Sailors move off the ship and into the barracks.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11848

Defense Media Activity Anacostia produces six Daily News Update (DNU) newscasts: a two-minute newscast and five one-minute newscasts. DNU 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. DNU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service.

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NNS011210-05. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 02

From the Navy News Service

1775 – Congress orders the first officers’ commissions printed.

1908 – Rear Adm. William S. Cowles submits a report to Secretary of the Navy recommending the purchase of aircraft suitable for operating from Naval ships on scouting and observation missions.

1941 – The first Naval armed guard detachment (seven men under a coxswain) of World War II reports to liberty ship SS Dunboyne.

1944 – Two-day destroyer Battle of Ormoc Bay begins.

1965 – USS Enterprise (CVAN 65) and USS Bainbridge (DLGN 25) become the first nuclear-powered task unit used in combat operations with the launch of air strikes near Bien Hoa, Vietnam.

For more information about Naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

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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 – Anacostia, 2713 Mitscher Rd. SW, Anacostia Annex, D.C., 20373-5819. 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 the Naval Historical Center’s Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342.

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]]> http://www.corpsman.com/2008/12/navy-news-service-02-december-2008/feed/ 1 http://www.corpsman.com/2008/11/navy-ethos-important-please-read/ http://www.corpsman.com/2008/11/navy-ethos-important-please-read/#comments Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:11:32 +0000 Da-Chief http://www.corpsman.com/?p=1316 You had better learn this, I am sure it will be a part of SOY/SOQ/BJOY/BJOQ boards in the near future..

I will post the Ethos first and the message below.

USS Carl Vinson

THE NAVY ETHOS:

– WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY, OUR NATION’S SEA POWER – READY
GUARDIANS OF PEACE, VICTORIOUS IN WAR.

– WE ARE PROFESSIONAL SAILORS AND CIVILIANS – A DIVERSE AND AGILE
FORCE EXEMPLIFYING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF SERVICE TO OUR NATION, AT
HOME AND ABROAD, AT SEA AND ASHORE.

– INTEGRITY IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR CONDUCT; RESPECT FOR OTHERS IS
FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR CHARACTER; DECISIVE LEADERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO OUR
SUCCESS.

– WE ARE A TEAM, DISCIPLINED AND WELL-PREPARED, COMMITTED TO MISSION
ACCOMPLISHMENT. WE DO NOT WAVER IN OUR DEDICATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY
TO OUR SHIPMATES AND FAMILIES.

– WE ARE PATRIOTS, FORGED BY THE NAVY’S CORE VALUES OF HONOR, COURAGE
AND COMMITMENT. IN TIMES OF WAR AND PEACE, OUR ACTIONS REFLECT OUR
PROUD HERITAGE AND TRADITION.

– WE DEFEND OUR NATION AND PREVAIL IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY WITH
STRENGTH, DETERMINATION, AND DIGNITY.

– WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY.

RAAUZYUW RUEWMCS0000 3102047-UUUU--RUCRNAD
ZNR UUUUU
R 052047Z NOV 08
FM CNO WASHINGTON DC
TO NAVADMIN
BT
UNCLAS//N05000//
NAVADMIN 318/08
MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N00/NOV//
SUBJ/NAVY ETHOS//
GENTEXT/REMARKS//1.  IN THE 2007-2008 CNO GUIDANCE, I DIRECTED THE
DEVELOPMENT OF A NAVY ETHOS THAT WOULD REFLECT THE VALUES INTEGRAL TO
MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR ACTIVE AND RESERVE SAILORS AND NAVY
CIVILIANS, NO MATTER THE ASSIGNED UNIT, COMMAND, OR COMMUNITY.
2.  AFTER GATHERING INPUT ACROSS THE NAVY FOR THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS,
THE NAVY ETHOS HAS BEEN APPROVED.  THE FINAL PRODUCT IS THE RESULT OF
COMMENTS FROM THOUSANDS OF ACTIVE AND RESERVE SAILORS AND NAVY
CIVILIANS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE ON THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES AND
VALUES THE NAVY EMPLOYS DAILY TO WIN WARS AND BUILD AND MAINTAIN
SECURITY AND STABILITY.
3.  AN ETHOS IDENTIFIES DISTINGUISHING CHARACTER, CULTURE, OR BELIEFS
OF A GROUP OR INSTITUTION.  NAVY ETHOS IS DESIGNED TO COMMUNICATE A SET
OF BELIEFS APPROPRIATE AND IMPORTANT TO THE MORE THAN 400,000 MILITARY
AND 180,000 CIVILIAN PERSONNEL WHO SHARE A COMMON BOND OF SERVICE IN
THE NAVY, REGARDLESS OF BACKGROUND, PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, OR POSITION.
4.  THE NAVY ETHOS:
-- WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY, OUR NATION'S SEA POWER - READY
GUARDIANS OF PEACE, VICTORIOUS IN WAR.
-- WE ARE PROFESSIONAL SAILORS AND CIVILIANS - A DIVERSE AND AGILE
FORCE EXEMPLIFYING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF SERVICE TO OUR NATION, AT
HOME AND ABROAD, AT SEA AND ASHORE.
-- INTEGRITY IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR CONDUCT; RESPECT FOR OTHERS IS
FUNDAMENTAL TO OUR CHARACTER; DECISIVE LEADERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO OUR
SUCCESS.
-- WE ARE A TEAM, DISCIPLINED AND WELL-PREPARED, COMMITTED TO MISSION
ACCOMPLISHMENT.  WE DO NOT WAVER IN OUR DEDICATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY
TO OUR SHIPMATES AND FAMILIES.
-- WE ARE PATRIOTS, FORGED BY THE NAVY'S CORE VALUES OF HONOR, COURAGE
AND COMMITMENT.  IN TIMES OF WAR AND PEACE, OUR ACTIONS REFLECT OUR
PROUD HERITAGE AND TRADITION.
-- WE DEFEND OUR NATION AND PREVAIL IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY WITH
STRENGTH, DETERMINATION, AND DIGNITY.
-- WE ARE THE UNITED STATES NAVY.
5.  RELEASED BY ADMIRAL G. ROUGHEAD, CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS.//
BT
#0000
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