Fitzgerald Trains with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, JapaneseBy Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gabriel S. Weber, Fleet Public Affairs Center Japan Posted: 02/29/2008USS FITZGERALD, Western Pacific – The crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald participated in the Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX) while underway in the Western Pacific.

The exercise, which ended Feb. 22, involved USS Nimitz (CVN 68) carrier strike group and elements from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), and focused on training and coordination of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) efforts.

“One of the major goals of USWEX was to work with the Nimitz strike group, bring them out to the FDNF [Forward-Deployed Naval Forces] area and have them do a real-world exercise with the JMSDF,” said Cmdr. Daniel Dusek, Fitzgerald’s commanding officer. “As part of the routine training continuum, we’re continuing to hone our skills in ASW and work with the Japanese. It was a huge success being able to do that integration.”

During the exercise, Fitzgerald Sailors were tasked with locating, tracking and completing simulated engagements with allied submarines in the vicinity of the strike group.

Working with the JMSDF and Nimitz strike group provided unique opportunities for all involved to learn from one another, according to Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class (SW/IUSS) Joshua Ellsworth.

“This was a chance for us to learn how to work together, share tactics and just get everybody on the same page,” Ellsworth said. “It was a learning experience for us in some ways. We got to see what they like to do and they got to see what we like to do. It was just nice to see everybody working on one sheet of music and be able to work together successfully.”

Dusek said that this exercise and others like it help maintain stability in the region.

“When we do an exercise like this with the Japanese, it really cements the bonds between our countries and provides a stable regional force; a stable Asia for future generations,” he said.

He added that integrating with the Nimitz strike group and JMSDF allowed them to train more effectively.

“We train like we fight,” Dusek said. “Had this been an exercise with only 7th Fleet ships, it still would have been a great exercise, but integrating U.S. assets that are not normally deployed to our theater adds a [level of] realism and gives those assets a chance to see how we do ASW in FDNF.”

U.S. and Japanese Sailors dive into joint trainingBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeremiah Sholtis and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexander AmeenPosted: 02/19/2008OTARU, Japan – Sailors from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) took time during their recent port visit in Sasebo to perform passing exercises (PASSEX) with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF).

Six Sailors attached to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit (MU) 11 traveled to the JMSDF EOD headquarters at Sakibe Naval Base where they practiced basic underwater diving

skills and Camp Ainoura where they trained with rangers attached to the Western Army Infantry Regiment.

“It was great to be able to dive and train not only in another country but with another country’s military,” said Ensign Karl Staehle, a platoon leader with EOD MU 11. “I learned how similar we are and how joint operations like this are good for both countries.”

“Japan is our most important ally in Asia,” said Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Christopher Cowlin, EOD MU 5’s Future Operations Chief. ”They have a tremendous amount of skill and technology from which we can learn.”

Joint training exercises aren’t only about education; they also help build lasting friendships and an increased willingness to cooperate.

“Being able to strengthen our bonds with the other Japanese forces in our area makes our job a lot easier when we have to do things together,” said Senior Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EWS/SW) Kevin Lundgren, EOD MU 11 leading chief petty officer.

As part of the PASSEX, 10 Japanese service members from JMSDF and JGSDF boarded Nimitz for a guided tour of the EOD spaces and equipment. They also toured the flight deck, pilot house, hangar bay and were treated to lunch in one of the ship’s wardrooms.

“This is my first time ever on an aircraft carrier,” said 2nd Lt. Masataka Ishizaki, a JGSDF public affairs officer. “I’m surprised that so many people live here. It’s like a small town.”

The EOD MU 11 Sailors said they were grateful for the hospitality they received during their time in Japan as well as the experience of working with the Japanese forces.

“This is my first time working with the JMSDF and JGSDF,” said Lundgren. “They’re very professional, knowledgeable and friendly people. I was surprised by how open they were; granting us access to their facilities. It was a really good experience.”

Though the exercise was considered a success by the participants, they all felt there was much more that could be learned during upcoming training opportunities.

“Even though this is one of the more involved training exercises [EOD has] done with them I think there is a lot of room for growth. It definitely opened my eyes to further possibilities and training opportunities we can do with these guys in the future,” said Lundgren.

In the end, the Sailors said they had a good time building new relationships while at the same time learning from their Japanese counterparts.

“Anytime we get to work with another country’s service it’s always a great opportunity to share information and build bridges,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (FMF/DV) Shaun Garner, EOD MU 11 team member. “It’s another day at the office and I love it. We had a good time.”

USS Fitzgerald Wins Battle “E”By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gabriel S. WeberPosted: 03/20/2008USS FITZGERALD, Western Pacific – The crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) received word March 6 while underway in the Western Pacific, that they had been awarded the 2007 Battle Efficiency award.

“All of the ships in FDNF [Forward Deployed Naval Forces] are really doing great,” said Cmdr.

Daniel Dusek, Fitzgerald’s commanding officer. “However I’m very proud that Fitzgerald was chosen. It really is a testament to how well we performed throughout 2007. We met all our operational and training goals and we excelled at them, day-in and day-out. It’s a great honor to have won the Battle ‘E.’”

Fitzgerald was also one of the very few ships to earn “E” awards in all six of the graded warfare areas that make up the Battle “E,” according to Capt. Mark Montgomery, commodore of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, to which Fitzgerald is assigned.

“Right off the bat, that tells you a lot about the ship,” said Montgomery. “That in all six warfare disciplines they’re able to meet the highest level of attainment. The average ship received three out of the six, so for a ship to get all six means a lot. I was proud that both FITGERALD and USS MUSTIN (DDG 89) achieved that level of excellence.”

Montgomery added that winning the Battle “E” speaks to the crew’s ability to perform beyond the graded evolutions.

“It’s sustained excellence in day-to-day operations, not just the inspections and assessments, that make up the warfare ‘E’s, which is even more challenging for a ship that is constantly on deployment as we are out here in the FDNF,” Montgomery said. “I think the DESRON 15 ship that wins the Battle ‘E’ has achieved a real mark of excellence because, yes, you’ve checked the block on all six of these warfare ‘E’s, but you’ve also succeeded in a high op-tempo operational environment.”

Lt. Cmdr. John Tolg, Fitzgerald’s executive officer, stressed that the award is not about the ship itself, but the Sailors on the deckplates and the chiefs and officers who lead them.“Battle ‘E’ is the crew’s award,” Tolg said. “A lot of people think it’s attached to the ship, but the award follows the Sailor. This ship is a piece of steel, and that piece of steel didn’t win Battle ‘E.’ It’s the crew onboard that won the award. It’s crew-driven, and it’s the crew that deserves the credit.

“It’s a pride thing for us,” said Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW) Chris Martin, of Bellefontaine, Oh. “Especially being one of the few to win all six warfare ‘E’s.”

“Its part of my command philosophy that we be a warship ready for tasking,” said Dusek. “We’ve proven to ourselves and the rest of the Navy that we are exactly that.”

Fitzgerald is one of seven DDGs assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 in Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the forward deployed naval forces. Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the U.S. Seventh Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time. For more information, visit the U.S. Seventh Fleet web site at www.c7f.navy.mil

Tortuga Conducts Exercise with JS Shimokita By Ensign Elizabeth Burnett, USS Tortuga Public AffairsPosted: 03/04/2008Sasebo, Japan – The crew of dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) participated in a bilateral exercise with a Japanese counterpart Shimokita from Feb. 28 to March 1.

Transport Exercise 2008 started Feb. 28, with each respective crew touring its counterpart’s ship and culminated in an underway Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) swap March 1.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for navies to work together,” Cmdr. Todd A. Lewis, USS Tortuga commanding officer, told Cmdr. Hirotoshi Tanaka, Shimokita commanding officer, in a visit to the

Japanese ship.

Lewis visited Shimokita Feb. 28. Soon after, Tanaka and Capt. Katsuaki Yamagata, Commander of the Japanese Landing Division One visited Tortuga.

The group discussed differences between the amphibious ships—from the size of the crew to the mess lines and the dimensions of the well deck. Later that evening, the officers and chief petty officers of both crews met for a social at the Sasebo Khaki Club. Both crews said they enjoyed the evening’s festivities and were pleasantly surprised at the commonality between the services.“Our navies are far more similar than I believe we realized,” said Lt. Cmdr. Dennis Burke, Tortuga executive officer.

The Transportex events continued Feb.29, when the ships’ softball and volleyball teams met for some friendly competition. The ships split victories, with the softball game going to Shimokita in extra innings and Tortuga taking home the win in volleyball.

March 1 marked the culminating event of the exercise, with both ships getting underway for tactical maneuvering and LCAC swaps. Two Japanese LCACs left Shimokita’s well deck simultaneously with two U.S. Navy LCACs leaving Tortuga. Each ship brought the foreign LCACs into their well, launched them, and then recovered its own.

CDS 15, Fitzgerald host ROKN ship visit for Foal Eagle 08By Ensign Scott Cheney-Peters and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gabriel S. WeberPosted: 03/10/2008USS FITZGERALD, Yellow Sea – The Deputy Commander of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Battle Flotilla 2, Rear Adm. Chai Hong-pil, met with Commander of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, Capt. Mark Montgomery, and Cmdr. Daniel P. Dusek, commanding officer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), aboard Fitzgerald in the Yellow Sea Feb. 28.

Chai flew from his flag ship, ROKS Wanggeon (DDH 978), via helicopter while both ships participated in the annual joint U.S.-ROK exercise, Foal Eagle 2008.

Aboard Fitzgerald, Chai and his staff received a tour and brief by the commodore and commanding officer.

The first stop was the ship’s combat information center (CIC), where Chai received an update on the status of Foal Eagle events and brief explanations on the different watch stations within CIC.

According to Dusek, this eyes-on understanding was important for cooperation between the two Navies, because it enhances both sides’ situational awareness and ability to manage and execute assigned warfare missions.

A trip to Fitzgerald’s central control station followed, where Sailors described the ship’s engineering plant in detail. Chai also watched a demonstration of the new digital damage control plotting system.

The final stop of the tour was the ship’s bridge, as watchstanders showed off the voyage management system, a relatively new technology in the U.S. Navy that allows for paperless navigation.

Before heading below for a brief, Chai and his staff received an opportunity to practice their weapons skills by firing the ship’s machine gun.

Chai and his staff ended their visit on Fitzgerald with Montgomery and Dusek presenting a brief on the Aegis guided missile destroyer’s characteristics and capabilities.

Not ones to leave friends empty-handed, the officers exchanged gifts after their discussion on ways to make future exercises even more successful and further integrate war-fighting capabilities and those of the other services.

Asked about the importance of the exercise, Dusek stated “Foal Eagle builds our bonds between the U.S. and Republic of Korea navies. We run the gamut from the very basic exercises to the very advanced and we continue to hone those skills. It’s really a great opportunity to work with the ROK Navy to do all those [things].”

Fitzgerald is attached to DESRON 15 and permanently forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan.

Training key to exercising real-world rescue near USS John S. McCain By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det JapanPosted: 03/11/2008USS JOHN S. MCCAIN, At Sea – Sailors of Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) responded to a rescue and assistance emergency the morning of March 10 while the ship was conducting a combined exercise with the Republic of Korea (ROK).

At approximately 6:10 a.m., John S. McCain's bridge watch team observed a fire on a Republic of Korea-flagged ship on the horizon and in response, maneuvered towards the burning vessel.

Lt. j.g. Erik Roberts of Newark, Del., who was standing the officer of the deck watch, reported seeing thick black smoke billowing from the aft end of a ROK merchant vessel and a flashing white light coming from a lifeboat.

“I was watching the horizon, when I started to see a flashing white light. Suddenly, I saw a red flash that looked like an explosion followed by flares. I knew something had to be wrong,” said Ensign Edward Valdez, a San Antonio native who was junior officer of the deck at the time.

“The port lookout got on the 'big-eyes' and confirmed there was a boat on fire,” added Roberts, referring to a large set of binoculars on the bridge wing.

Upon observing a life raft drifting in the vicinity of the burning ship, McCain's rescue and assistance (R&A) detail departed the ship in a rigid hull inflatable boat and retrieved 11 crewmembers from the lifeboat. The crewmembers were then brought aboard McCain.

Following the rescue, several ROK vessels arrived on scene to extinguish the fire on the burning fishing vessel. McCain also had a firefighting team in place for contingency purposes. Damage Controlman 3rd Class (SW) Steven Galarza of Newark, N.J., said team training came together during the emergency.

“I've been aboard (McCain) for about two and a half years, and this was the first actual casualty I've experienced,” Galarza said. “All our training really came through. We were in place and ready to help fight the other ship's casualty. Being forward-deployed, things are always happening and I think we train a lot harder.”

The rescued ROK crewmembers were given an examination for injuries by Chief Hospital Corpsman (SW) Kevin Varner of Hillsboro, Ore., who was assisted by a Korean speaking member of the crew and a few ROK naval officers embarked.

“Before the patients came aboard, the ROK LNO's (liaison officers) we have aboard for the exercise were talking back and forth and asking about injuries,” Varner said. “None of them said they were hurt and they were all moving around okay. We had Seaman Sung Kim of Incheon, Korea on the flight deck to welcome them aboard.”

Varner explained teamwork and precise coordination are necessary following a rescue scenario.

“On the mess decks, we got cots and blankets to wrap up the patient. They were obviously cold, and hypothermia was a concern,” Varner said. “We had Gas Turbine System Technician - Electrical Fireman Jong Shin, a native of Seoul, on the mess decks helping to translate. The culinary specialists provided hot drinks and breakfast to maintain heat and we got them warmed up.”

The rescued crewmembers were finally transported via small boat transfer to an ROK coast guard vessel. Cmdr. John S. Banigan, McCain’s commanding officer, said his crew displayed dedication and professionalism.

“I was proud of how quickly and professionally the crew reacted. All mariners have duty to assist others in distress and as a U.S. Navy warship, we always stand ready to help individuals of any nationality who may be in need at sea,” Banigan said. “Saving the lives of eleven fellow sailors was a great way to start the day.”

John S. McCain recently completed participation in the U.S.-ROK Exercise Foal Eagle and is assigned to Commander, Destroyer Squadron 15 as part of the U.S. Navy's forward deployed naval forces operating out of Yokosuka, Japan.

U.S. and Indonesian Marines exchange scout sniper fundamentalsBy 31st MEU Combat Correspondent Lance Cpl. Tyler J. HlavacPosted: 03/11/2008CAMP KARENTEKOK, Republic of Indonesia – U.S. Marines with Scout Sniper Platoon, Battalion Landing Team 2, 4th Marine Regiment, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, started their first day of training with Indonesia Marines from 1st Reconnaissance Battalion by conducting a class designed to teach their KORMAR’ counterparts the basic fundamentals of being a scout sniper March 10.

The training was essential for the two groups of Marines as they will spend March 10-17 conducting various exercises together as part of a Bilateral Training Exercise between the U.S. and the Republic of Indonesia. The purpose of this exercise is to increase interoperability, enhance military to military relationships and continue building strong regional partnerships between the two nations.

During the class, the U.S. Marine Scout Snipers covered the various aspects of being a scout sniper, such as marksmanship, shooting positions and the ballistics of the M40A3 sniper rifle, the standard weapon for the U.S. Scout Snipers, which both groups of Marines will use throughout the training exercise. During the following days of the exercise the two groups of Marines will learn how to stalk, construct a hide and other marksmanship skills.

While most of the material in the class was not new for the U.S. Marines, it did give them a

chance to refresh their scout sniper knowledge said Indonesia Marine Cpl. Romy, a sniper with 1st Recon Battalion, said the class was very informative.

“I really enjoyed being in the class and learning from the U.S. Marines,” said Romy, speaking through a translator. “I learned how to be a good spotter, how to calculate for wind and how to identify a target. I really look forward to the training we will be conducting together during this exercise.”

Blue Ridge Offers Hospitality to Exercise Participants By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Charles Newcomer, USS Blue Ridge Public AffairsPosted: 03/12/2008PACIFIC OCEAN – While participating in exercise Key Resolve/Foal Eagle USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) not only served as a state of the art command and control platform for the combined joint exercise but also provided the participants on board with top notch accommodations and hospitality services.

For some participants of Key Resolve/Foal Eagle, the joint military exercise, Blue Ridge represented their first time aboard a military vessel and the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship crew made every effort to make their stay at sea a positive experience. From medical aid for “sea sickness” to the award winning cuisine served on the ship’s mess decks the Blue Ridge crew took care of the day to day quality of life issues of the participants enabling the civilian and military guests to concentrate on the exercise.

“We offer a variety of services to those staying on board,” said S-5 Division Officer Lt. j.g. Melissa Gonzales. “We accommodate guests on board with clean comfortable quarters, laundry services, as well as meals and what ever reasonable requests we can facilitate. Our Blue Ridge Sailors have gone the extra mile in helping those on board. For example we extended our meal hours to accommodate those whose duties prevented them from eating during our regular meal times and worked closely with our Korean translator to answer any questions our guests might have.”

Blue Ridge also augmented mess deck and ship’s berthing crew members with addition personnel contributed from other divisions on board. The additional staff was dubbed the “Five Star Cadre” and offered “five star services” to the exercise participants by taking responsibility of food service and the ship’s cleanliness.

“Usually I’m a Yeoman here on Blue Ridge,” said Yeoman Seaman Recruit Andrew Spears. “Right now though I’m helping out with the Five Star Cadre for the exercise and it’s been a positive experience. On a daily basis I clean many of the staterooms and help serve food on the mess decks. A lot of the people that are staying on board have told me how much they appreciate what I do and how it makes it easier for them to concentrate on the exercise.”

Blue Ridge’s hospitality did not go unnoticed by the participants of Key Resolve, which included U.S. Marines, Airmen, Soldiers, and service members of the Republic of Korea (ROK) navy, including five flag officers.

“The Five Star Cadre was absolutely great and they worked very diligently,” said Lt. j.g. Tae Jin Jung of the ROK navy. “They always provided us with a very clean environment and had a very kind attitude. I would like to thank USS Blue Ridge. Your service was excellent!”

Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman and serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy’s only forward deployed

amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

CSG 9 ships participate in Singapore PASSEXBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans, USS Abraham Lincoln Public AffairsPosted: April 24, 2008AT SEA – Ships and aircraft from Carrier Strike Group 9 and the Republic of Singapore Navy conducted a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) while underway near Singapore April 15.

Republic of Singapore Formidable-class guided missile frigate RSS Steadfast (FFG 70) conducted flight deck training with an SH-60B Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 47 "Saberhawks."

The helicopter, flown by HSL-47's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Shawn Malone and Co-pilot Lt. Christopher Moore, made several landings on the ship's flight deck, giving the crew of Steadfast the opportunity to practice helicopter recovery procedures including chocking and chaining (referred to as "lashing" by the Singapore Navy) and refueling evolutions.

"The Singapore Navy is increasing its capabilities and acquiring H-60 type helicopters and their pilots are training at NAS North Island (San Diego, Calif.), so this is an opportunity to work together and for us to train with them for helicopter shipboard operations," Malone said. "It was a great exchange and it was a wonderful way to build those partnerships with the Singapore Navy."

Following the flight operations, Steadfast practiced coming alongside the fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7) and conducted a simulated refueling-at-sea.

The evolution was observed from the air in an HSL-47 helicopter by Singapore Navy Capt. Kelvin Lim, a communications officer assigned to the RSS Formidable, the first of Singapore's Formidable-class frigates. Lim also spent time aboard Shoup during the PASSEX and observed that there are many similarities and differences between the two ships.

"Our primary mission is air defense, like your ship, but we do things differently because we only have 70 people onboard," said Lim. Lim added that the most striking difference between the Shoup and Steadfast was the makeup of the crews. "You can see the whole of America on your ship; there is so much diversity."

One major similarity participants noted during the PASSEX was that Steadfast's design in many ways reflected the direction the U.S. Navy is moving in with its own ship designs, Malone said.

"That ship to me represents something very similar to where we're moving with the littoral combat ship and some of the stealth technology that is being incorporated into our surface forces," Malone said. "That was the benefit for us-- to be able to operate with that type of modern warship."

The Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is currently on a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility to support maritime security operations.

Blue Ridge PACRIM Tour Stops in JakartaBy USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs Office Posted: May 13, 2008

JAKARTA, Indonesia – After a four day visit to Singapore, the crew of amphibious command and control flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and her embarked 7th Fleet Staff arrived here May 12 for a scheduled port visit.

During the visit, Sailors will have a chance to meet local citizens and experience the local customs and traditions of Indonesia.

Blue Ridge Commanding Officer Capt. David A. Lausman spoke to the importance of the port visit. “The U.S. and Jakarta navies have long stood as allies and will continue to cooperate with each other to protect sea channels and waterways for travel and commerce.” Lausman said visits like these also provide good opportunities for the crew to engage in sports, recreational activities, and absorb the local culture.

The visit will begin with 7th Fleet’s traditional formal evening social called a “big top” where local dignitaries and military leaders are invited to visit, tour the ship, and socialize with Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, his staff, and Blue Ridge officers and crew members.

The visit to Jarkarta will afford the caring and socially responsible Sailors and Marines an opportunity to visit an orphanage at which they will spend time with the children and donate needed school supplies, hygiene items, and fruits.

A special visit will also be made to the Yayasan Belita Sehat in South Jakarta to deliver sewing machines that will be used as a skill building tool for the mothers and children enrolled in the program there. These skills will enable those enrolled with a means of supporting their family’s needs.

While here the U.S. and Jakarta Navy will also compete against one another to build camaraderie in three scheduled sports events; a soccer match, a basketball game, and a volleyball match. Sailors will also participate in a variety of recreational activities offered through the ship’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation office.

Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman and serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy’s only forward deployed amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Patriot Arrives in Thailand for Cobra Gold 08By MNSN J’myle Koretz, USS Patriot Public AffairsPosted: May 9, 2008SATTAHIP, Thailand – The forward deployed mine-countermeasures ship, USS Patriot (MCM 7) arrived in Sattahip, Thailand today to participate in the bilateral exercise Cobra Gold 2008. During the exercise, Patriot will conduct mine countermeasures (MCM) operations with American and Thai MCM and Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) assets which promote bilateral cooperation, training, and enhance MCM interoperability.

“This exercise is a truly a great opportunity for both militaries to improve our capabilities in joint operations,” said Patriot’s Commanding Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Tom Shultz, after a pre-exercise meeting with the deputy director of the Thai Naval Forces. Seamlessly integrated joint training is a key goal for all the participants in Cobra Gold.

The exercise also gives the participants a chance to demonstrate their core warfare capabilities. “Our mission is mine warfare,” said Ensign Garrett Twitchell, Patriot’s Combat Information Center Officer, “This exercise gives us a chance to practice for a real-world mine warfare scenario.”

Patriot will embark a detachment from EOD Mobile Unit Five to give COBRA GOLD’s mine warfare command an additional mine neutralization option.

Patriot serves under Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. Fleets covering 52 million square miles, with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time.

Historic UFG ’08 comes to a closeBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Adam Vernon, U.S. 7th Fleet Public AffairsPosted: August 24, 2008BUSAN, Republic of Korea — Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG), a Combined Forces Command computer simulation driven exercise, ended Aug. 22, at Busan and throughout the Republic of Korea (ROK).

UFG demonstrates and exercises ROK-U.S. interoperability, alliance capabilities and the U.S. commitment to defend Korea. This exercise, the first step toward wartime operational control transition in 2012, is designed to evaluate and improve combined and joint coordination, procedures, plans and systems for conducting contingency operations between ROK and U.S. forces.

The role of the U.S. 7th Fleet in UFG, according to Vice Adm. John M. Bird, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, is to support the maritime aspect of warfighting.

“As a longtime partner in many exercises, both at sea and ashore, the ROK navy has demonstrated their maritime skill superbly,” said Bird. “They have shown precision in planning, coordinating and executing complex naval operations in support of the defense of Korea.”

The five-day exercise, conducted at ROK and Combined Forces Command military installations, replaced the annual Ulchi Focus Lens as the regularly scheduled summer exercise involving forces from both the ROK and U.S.

In addition to preparing for the overall transition of operational control to the Republic of Korea, UFG gave the U.S. 7th Fleet staff the opportunity to work side-by-side with their ROK navy counterparts. Capt. Kyle Freitas, deputy commander, Naval Operations Coordination Team, said working together only strengthens the alliance.

“UFG mutually leverages two naval assets to provide the quickest, most potent offensive expeditionary naval force to support the ROK navy with ships, aircraft, submarines, and Marines to defend the ROK and aggressively defeat the enemy.”

Results from the exercise will help U.S. and ROK forces evaluate and improve combined and joint coordination procedures, plans, and systems necessary for the conduct of contingency operations in the defense of the ROK.

The U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, with approximately 60-70 ships, 200-300 aircraft and 40,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time. For more information, visit the U.S. 7th Fleet Web site at www.c7f.navy.mil.

USS John S. McCain Cross Trains with Australian and French NaviesBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. JapanPosted: August 14, 2008 USS JOHN S. MCCAIN, At Sea – Sailors of guided missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) participated in multinational cross-training exercises Aug. 1-9 with Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Ballarat (FFH-155) and French Navy patrol ship P686 La Glorieuse.

Interoperability was emphasized with a Liaison Naval Officer exchange between all three ships. Australian Sublieutenants Stephen Miller and Andrew Erven joined French Midshipman Antoine Villefumade aboard McCain and took advantage of the available learning opportunities.

“This is my first time aboard an operating U.S. ship and I have two pages of notes in my pocket to take back to my ship,” said Miller, an Assistant Engineer. “It was fascinating to talk to people here and swap notes about maintenance procedures. From an engineering perspective, I have a lot to take back with me.”

Erven praised the friendliness of the crew as well as their professionalism. “Anytime we had questions, people here would go out of their way to help us out.”

The ships involved conducted synchronized exercise as they headed west. A Division Tactics (DIVTACS) event enabled watchstanders from all three ships to practice their ship-handling skills while operating in close proximity.

The crews also participated in live-fire exercises. McCain launched a target, known as a “Killer Tomato”, which the ships engaged. Aided by McCain's Close-In Weapons System in conjunction with the weapons systems of the other participating ships, the bright red “Killer Tomato” was cooperatively eliminated.Villefumade said he was impressed with the exercises and the precision with which they were carried out.

“It was absolutely excellent. Seeing how the watches were organized was so different. It was very exciting, I felt like something could happen at any minute.”

McCain’s Navigation Officer, Lt. Stephen Beltran of Germantown, Md., conducted his cross training aboard Ballarat. “The opportunity to observe the Australian crew,” he said, “gave me a valuable learning experience. Without a doubt, I have a better understanding of both their part and our part in our joint exercises. Being able to go over there and see how they do business is important for our working together.”

USS John S. McCain, commanded by Cmdr. John S. Banigan, is one of seven Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and is permanently forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan.

CTF 76 Completes Habu Nag with IndiansBy Lt. Denver Applehans, Amphibious Force Seventh Fleet Public AffairsPosted: September 10, 2008VISAKHAPATNUM, India -- Sailors and Marines from Task Force 76, Amphibious Squadron 11 and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit concluded a table top exercise with members of the Republic of India Navy and Army in Visakhapatnum, India Sept. 6.

Habu Nag is an annual bilateral tabletop exercise which focuses on building skill sets to enable

American and Indian interoperability on humanitarian aid and disaster response operations.

This is the third Habu Nag exercise and built on the knowledge gained in the previous two exercises. The focus of the exercise this year was to develop contingency plans using the Rapid Response Planning Process also known as R2P2.

Participants developed contingency plans based on different scenarios and conditions the forces may find in a real-world relief effort.

Both Indian and American naval officers thought the exercise was useful and aided in understanding how to better work together in the future.

“This exercise is a key part of developing interoperability with Indian Naval amphibious-like forces,” said Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, commander, Amphibious Forces 7th Fleet, “the teams worked together well and were able to deftly flex for contingencies thrown into the scenario.”

A final brief to Landolt and Indian Rear Adm. Satish Soni, flag officer commanding, Eastern Fleet, demonstrated the cumulative work of the exercise participants during the week.

Task Force 76 is the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious expeditionary strike group and is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan. 

Essex Departs Tokyo After Successful Port Visit and ExerciseBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg JohnsonPosted: September 2, 2008TOKYO - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Tokyo Sep. 1, after completing the evacuation phase of this year’s Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Kanagawa Prefecture Government disaster response drills.

During the six-day visit, Sailors assigned to Essex and Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, Detachment Western Pacific, responded to simulated natural disasters in Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. They also had the opportunity to experience the city of Tokyo, Japan’s largest city, with a population of more than 12 million people.

While other U.S. Navy ships have participated in the drill for the past three years, this was a first for Essex.

“The success of this exercise is an example of the great things we can accomplish together,” said Essex’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Brent Canady. “Our continued cooperation is imperative, not only from a military standpoint, but a humanitarian one as well.”

On Aug. 31, more than 80 simulated evacuees were transported by landing craft air cushion (LCAC) 63, assigned to ACU 5, from Kasai Beach in Tokyo to Essex, where they were treated to a tour of the ship’s medical facility.

The following day, more than 21 evacuees were transported by LCAC from the Yokosuka City pier near Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, to Essex. Upon arrival, evacuees were processed for medical treatment as if it were an actual disaster.

Evacuees were unloaded and divided into groups based on the level of care required for their injuries. Evacuees with life-threatening injuries were rushed to the ship’s medical facility, while those with less severe injuries were treated afterward.

“This drill was all about making sure we’re ready to go in case of a real natural disaster,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/AW) Albert Hance, Essex’s medical department assistant leading petty officer. “It’s simply not an option for us to be unprepared when something really happens. We need to be ready, and drills like this help ensure that readiness.”

“Drills like this are an important part of Essex’ mission,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/AW) Robert Spahr, Essex’s medical department leading petty officer. “I think the drills serve as a constant reminder that, while our primary function is to get Marines on the beach, we still have to be ready for any kind of medical emergency coming off the beach.”

Akiama Isao, one of the simulated evacuees, said the cooperation between the U.S. and Japan is reassuring, especially for residents of Tokyo where minor earthquakes are common.

“As far as a natural disaster is concerned, I think this ship would be able to help out, not only the Yokosuka community, but the entire Tokyo area,” he said.

Aside from completing successful Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Kanagawa Prefecture disaster response drills, Essex Sailors also spent three days on liberty in downtown Tokyo and the Greater Tokyo Area.

“It looks like Times Square,” said Seaman Brandon Jackson, assigned to Essex’s deck department. “The best part of the whole trip was the Sony building. They’ve got all kinds of electronics that you can’t get anywhere else.”

Essex will now return to its forward-deployed home of Sasebo, Japan, for a brief stop in preparation for its annual fall patrol.

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 only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is based at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Essex Completes PHIBLEX, Talon VisionBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Didier, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific, Det. SaseboPosted: October 30, 2008 SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines after completing this year’s Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercises (PHIBLEX), Oct. 27.

The exercises involved two weeks of ground, air and naval integration training with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The exercises are designed to improve interoperability, increase readiness and continue to improve professional relationships between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines.

“Essex Sailors did an outstanding job supporting the Marines as well as the Philippine Armed Forces during both exercises further improving our interoperability with our partner nation,” said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex’ commanding officer. “Now that the exercises are complete we look forward to a much deserved port visit in Subic Bay which provides an opportunity to perform some community relations projects as well as enrich our cultural understanding of each other.”

Essex arrived in Subic Bay to backload Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), who conducted ground-force training during PHIBLEX and TV.

Throughout the past two weeks Marines of the 31st MEU conducted an intensive series of training exercises with their Filipino counterparts to improve their collective war fighting capabilities. Training scenarios included live arms fire, small unit tactics, and boat-raid training exercises.

With the operational phase of the exercises behind them, Sailors now look to accomplish a great deal in terms of humanitarian assistance and intercultural relations.

Sailors assigned to Essex are scheduled to participate in two community relations projects in Olongapo City during the port visit. Both projects involve minor repair work, painting, English lessons and a variety of interactive friendship building activities.

“We are not just here in a military capacity,” said Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Michael Brewer, of Hanford, Calif. “We want to reach out to help the local community and show them our humanitarian side.”

While in the Philippines, Sailors and Marines will enjoy a liberty call at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Olongapo City area.

“I look forward to going back to the Philippines,” said Aviation Boatswains Mate (Fuels) Airman (AW) Robert Sherman from Chicago. “I really enjoy going there and taking in the sights and tours. I plan on going to the Aquarium and seeing the things I missed the last two visits.”

Essex is the only forward-deployed U.S. amphibious assault ship and serves Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

USS Shiloh arrives in Hong Kong for SAREX 2008By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW/AW) David L. Smart, Fleet Public Affairs Center PacificPosted: October 30, 2008 HONG KONG – The forward-deployed guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) arrived in Hong Kong Oct. 26 for a port visit and to participate in Hong Kong Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) 2008.

The SAREX is an annual exercise in search and rescue techniques designed to share information and innovations between U.S. forces and Hong Kong’s Government Flying Service (GFS). The People’s Republic of China will also participate with the GFS in a separate part of SAREX.

“Shiloh is happy to be in Hong Kong to promote interoperability between U.S. search and rescue forces and those of the Hong Kong Government Flying Service,” said Lt. Cmdr. Richard M. Meyer, Shiloh’s executive officer. “The events included in the SAR (Search and Rescue) exercise are a great opportunity to improve cooperation between forces in the Hong Kong Search and Rescue Region. They also allow for the rare opportunity for our Sailors and Airmen to conduct live SAR operations.”

Along with Shiloh, which is forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, other U.S. forces participating include aircraft and personnel from U.S. Coast Guard District 14 in Honolulu and the Alaska Air National Guard’s 210th and 212th Rescue Squadrons (RQS) from Anchorage, Alaska.

As Shiloh approached Hong Kong, some early training exercises were available. A HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter from the 210th RQS had an opportunity to perform deck landing qualifications aboard the Shiloh.

“We coordinated with USS Shiloh to go out and practice some deck landings, and for a couple of our crewmen it was qualifications on the decks, so it was a new opportunity for us. We’re a land-based unit, an Air Force unit, landing on a Navy ship,” said Lt. Col. Tim O’Brien, commander of the 210th RQS. “I think it went really well. The Navy was great, they had everything ready for us when we got there. As a matter of fact, we finished all our training and it went really smoothly.”

“I was greatly impressed with their knowledge of our flight operations,” said Lt. Cmdr. Daniel E. Fillion, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light (HSL) 51 air detachment officer-in-charge. “They made a risky operation go smoothly and safely.

“The SAREX allows for a rare mutual operability between services. It is not often that we are able to have other services’ helicopters land on our flight deck,” Fillion added. “Today, we were not only able to have an Air Force HH-60 land on Shiloh’s flight deck, but two pilots earned their deck landing qualifications.”

The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (HK CAD) will host a SAR seminar Oct. 28 in downtown Hong Kong, followed by the SAREX Oct. 29-30. The SAREX will feature both long-range and short-range SAR events. The HK CAD has invited personnel from Brunei, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam to observe the exercise.

The People’s Republic of China will be represented in the short-range SAR exercise by People’s Liberation Army (PLA) units from the PLA Hong Kong Garrison.

U.S. Navy Ships Arrive in India for 10th Malabar ExerciseBy Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public AffairsPosted: October 17, 2008GOA, India – Three ships from Carrier Strike Group 7 arrived in the Indian port city of Goa to kick off Exercise Malabar, a bilateral training event with the Indian Navy Oct. 18.

While in port, crews from the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) trained on damage control, combat systems and electronic warfare. American and Indian naval officers also attended a reception held aboard the destroyer INS Mumbai (D62).

“India and the United States are natural friends. We share democratic traditions and seafaring traditions,” said Capt. John Nolan, Chancellorsville’s commanding officer. “Our Sailors are very happy to be here in the beautiful port city of Goa and are excited to work with our counterparts in the Indian Navy.”

Malabar 2008 is the 10th exercise hosted by India in which the United States Navy has participated. This year’s exercise, which takes place in the Arabian Sea, also includes the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) with embarked Carrier Air Wing 14, guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73), USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10) and the fast-attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761). The Indian Navy contingent includes three guided-missile destroyers, four guided-missile frigates, an underway replenishment ship and a submarine.

“This greatly enhances our two navies’ interoperability, which is very important to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, as well as issues of maritime security and piracy,” said Indian Navy Rear Adm. Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Command Western Fleet (FOCWF).

Essex Arrives in Pohang for KITPBy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public AffairsPosted: November 6, 2008POHANG, Republic of Korea – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived off the coast of Pohang, Republic of Korea (ROK), for this year’s Korean Interoperability Training Program (KITP) Nov. 4.

KITP is a five-day bilateral training program conducted annually between the U.S. and ROK militaries, designed to enhance joint-combat readiness through intensive amphibious training.

“I’m really looking forward to another excellent opportunity for us to improve Essex’s interoperability with the Republic of Korea,” said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex’s commanding officer. “Our ability to work effectively together is essential to our overall mission of peace and stability in the Pacific region.”

Essex’s Sailors, along with Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), will collaborate with their ROK counterparts through multiple amphibious training scenarios, including simulated air strikes and combined beach support operations. Training will be integrated from top to bottom, with Sailors and Marines from both countries coordinating efforts in planning, organizing and executing each scenario.

In order to enhance those efforts, U.S. and ROK servicemembers will cross-deck between Essex and the ROK’s amphibious assault ship ROKS Dokdo (LPH 6111). According to Lt. Cmdr. Ben Sigurdson, Essex’s assistant air operations officer, the experience will be invaluable for Sailors of both countries.

“It provides an opportunity for both militaries to observe operations from each other’s perspective,” said Sigurdson. “It should really help us more effectively combine our operations into one. The more familiar we are with each other’s equipment and methods, the smoother operations will go.”

Sigurdson said Essex’s air department will send Sailors from various levels of leadership to Dokdo, where they will observe flight-deck operations and air traffic control procedures. The insight gained by those Sailors can then be applied to future bilateral efforts with ROK forces.

In addition, Essex’s Sailors will also support Marine aircraft from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262), 31st MEU, who will look to benefit from bilateral training in the air.

“Our role is integral to the completion of their mission,” said Sigurdson, “and we need to be ready to launch and recover every aircraft needed to successfully carry out that mission.”

According to Marine Maj. Brian Thompson, 31st MEU air officer and KITP planning coordinator, mission success will require a cohesive effort from everyone involved.

“Our main objective is to coordinate a bilateral, major amphibious assault, and that takes a lot of effort and cooperation from the Marines and Sailors of both countries,” said Thompson.

During the simulated assault, U.S. and ROK forces will land on the beach together, employing Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) and Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAV) and every type of aircraft in the 31st MEU’s inventory, including CH-46E Sea Knight, CH-53E Sea Stallion, AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1N Huey helicopters, as well as AV-8B Harrier multi-purpose attack jets.

Sigurdson said extensive, bilateral training such as this is always challenging, but Sailors and Marines from both countries are well prepared and should come away from the training with a better understanding of each other and how to operate more efficiently together.

“It’s incredibly important to enhance our interoperability, especially with our friends and allies in the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility,” he said. “Bilateral training that allows both countries to experience the inner workings of the other is not only valuable, but essential.”

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 only forward-deployed U.S. amphibious assault ship and serves Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

USS Chancellorsville, USS Decatur Engage in Maritime Exchange with Thai NavyBy Ensign George Kunthara, USS Chancellorsville Public AffairsPosted: November 6, 2008 ABOARD USS CHANCELLORSVILLE, Gulf of Thailand – Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 ships USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and USS Decatur (DDG 73) participated in a bilateral exercise with a royal Thai navy ship off the coast of Phuket, Thailand Nov. 1.

Officers from the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville and the guided-missile destroyer Decatur viewed seamanship maneuvers from HTMS Chaopraya, the participating ship from Thailand’s navy.

“We had a golden opportunity to interact with Sailors from another country,” said Ensign Alister Bryson, Chancellorsville’s anti-submarine warfare officer who visited HTMS Chaopraya.

The exercise allowed U.S. Sailors to interact with their Thai counterparts during seamanship maneuvers called “leapfrog” maneuvers. The three participating maritime vessels formed into a column, after which all three ships took turns steaming past each other as the ships being passed rendered honors.

During the 2008 Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment, CSG 7 ships have worked with various international partners in an effort to promote global maritime security. Building confidence and trust among nations by working together is a key component of the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Strategy.

“This was my fifth time traveling to Thailand and my first exercise with the Thai Navy,” said Capt. John P. Nolan, Chancellorsville commanding officer. “It’s a good Navy day when we can collectively operate with another navy.” Exercises with foreign navies also give Sailors an opportunity to learn about cultures they may have never experienced.

“Being able to interact with foreign Sailors and realizing the similarities and differences between us has possibly been one of the best parts of this deployment,” added Nolan.

The officer exchange concluded after both ships anchored off the coast of Phuket, Thailand.

CSG 7 is on a routine deployment in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. Its ships include the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62); and the other ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Gridley (DDG 101), and USS Howard (DDG 83), and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43).

Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, covering 52 million square miles, with approximately 60-70 ships, 200-300 aircraft and 40,000 Sailors and Marines at any given time.

GW Strike Group Participates in ANNUALEX  By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Barry HirayamaPosted: November 21, 2008USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea – The USS George Washington (CVN 73) Carrier Strike Group completed its first bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces (JMSDF and JASDF) Nov. 19.

ANNUALEX 20G is the 20th annual exercise of its kind, but the first for USS George Washington, which relieved USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) this summer as the Navy’s only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.

The exercise is designed to enhance the capabilities of both naval forces, for continued success in coordinated and bilateral operations in the defense of Japan.

“ANNUALEX was an outstanding introduction for GW to the top-level professionalism and seamanship of the JMSDF,” said GW’s Operations Officer, Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. “High-quality, mutually-beneficial training resulted from our collaboration throughout the exercise.”

ANNUALEX focuses on enhancing military-to-military relationships, improving command and control, and conducting coordinated air, undersea and surface warfare.

“We are planning together, presenting the plan together, and we are standing watches together,” said Lt. Roger Leech, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 air operations officer.

“Being in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility, knowing we can turn to our allies to help them or for them to help us, is reassuring. We know we can work together and accomplish the mission,” said Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) C. Jones, a DESRON 15 Sailor who stood watches side-by-side with her Japanese counterparts.

While JMSDF Sailors integrated into many command and control spaces, Jones has not noticed any difficulties when it comes to effective communication.

“They add their expertise in many areas and their Japanese language skills help a lot when coordinating with other Japanese ships operating with the U.S. Navy,” said Jones.

“It is very good to have the perspective they bring and how we can learn from each other during this exercise,” added Leech. “Our [JMSDF] counterparts’ planning has been very thorough.”

U.S. Navy units taking part in the exercise with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force units include elements operating from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Fleet Activities Sasebo and Naval Air Facility Atsugi. 

Hampton completes first submarine exercise with Singapore, helps out community    By Lt. Doug SzwarcPosted: December 10, 2008SINGAPORE – USS Hampton (SSN 767) conducted a port visit in Singapore Dec. 1, following a submarine-versus-submarine exercise with the Republic of Singapore Ship (RSS) Conqueror.

The exercise marks the first submarine inclusive exercise between the two navies, noting an increasingly mature relationship between the two submarine forces.

The exercise brought the nuclear-powered fast attack submarine Hampton head-to-head with the Challenger-class diesel submarine Conqueror, allowing the crews to put years of training to the test.

Hampton is in the second full month of a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific. Homeported in San Diego, Calif., Hampton traveled more than 9,000 miles to arrive at their first port visit in Singapore. The visit was a welcome break for the crew.

“The crew has been working tirelessly for the last few months, including the work-up towards deployment. This is the first opportunity for many of our Sailors to set foot in a foreign country,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chad Hennings, Hampton executive officer. “It is really a great opportunity for them.”

Hampton and Conqueror officers also met for a post-exercise discussion. The discussion allowed for the wardrooms to meet and discuss the tactical aspects of the exercise. As diesel and nuclear submarines operate differently, a great deal was learned through reconstructing the exercise with each other.

“We were impressed with the skill and professionalism displayed by the Conqueror,” remarked Cmdr. William Houston, commanding officer of Hampton. “They proved to be a well-seasoned crew.”

During the visit, 23 Sailors from Hampton visited the Child at Street 11 childcare center in Singapore. Child at Street 11 is a multi-racial, secular, independent, non-profit organization dedicated to helping low income families provide early education for their children.

The project afforded the officers and crew of Hampton the opportunity to interact with their Singapore hosts and show their gratitude for welcoming them into their country.

“It was a great opportunity for us to get out into the community and provide valuable service,” said Hennings. “Being away from their own families, the visit allowed our crew to feel a little bit more at home.”

“I wish that I had a chance to do more community relations events. It was a rewarding experience to give back to a town that supports visiting United States Sailors,” said Fire Control Technician 1st Class (SS) Greg Willmann.

Amphibious Force and JMSDF Sailors Trade Language Skills     By Lt. Denver Applehans, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet Public AffairsPosted: December 11, 2008OKINAWA, Japan – Five U.S. Sailors and 10 Japan Maritime Self Defense Force Sailors spent an hour working on their language skills with one another at one of a series of conversation events held Dec. 10 at White Beach Naval Facility on Okinawa, Japan.

Yeoman 2nd Class Brandon Quinn and Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Marquese Gavin, both attached to Task Force 76, the U.S. 7th Fleet’s Amphibious Force, coordinate the twice-monthly conversation events with Lt. Yoshinori Tanabe of Japanese Sub Area Activity Okinawa.

“We coordinate with the JMSDF to try and get an equal balance of people,” said Gavin. He enjoys

coordinating the events, “because it builds a friendship between us and the JMSDF members.”

The events consist of conversations between U.S. and JMSDF Sailors about a designated topic including everything from hobbies to work topics. This event focused on the upcoming holidays and sharing traditions and plans for the holiday period.

Many JMSDF Sailors mentioned that they would be heading home for the holidays, while some were happy to explore Okinawa. Talking about their plans gave the Sailors an opportunity to practice their English and gave the U.S. Sailors a chance to learn more about their Japanese counterparts.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Quartermaster 1st Class (SW/AW) Michael Saavedra of Fleet Activities Okinawa Port Services. “We learn just as much Japanese as they learn English.”

The continuing program gives participants a larger view of the professional and personal lives of their counterparts as well as improving language skills.

“I've learned that we all have something in common despite our differences,” said Quinn. “It may not be on a global perspective, but these events help improve relations between the Japanese and Americans.”

Task Force 76 is led by Rear Adm. Richard Landolt and is the U.S. Navy’s only forward deployed amphibious force. CTF 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.