SHUTTLEtheUSS Enterprise (CVN 65) -Tuesday June 7, 2011

Aerographer’s Mate Airman Jonathan D. Sirmans holds a handheld anemometer, or “windbird” which tells wind speed and direction. The information gained here helps USS Enterprise (CVN 65) determine the safety of flight operations for the day.

Photo by MC3 Jared M. King

They know which way

the wind blows

the Page 3Tuesday June 7, 2011

Enterprise NewsSHUTTLE

By MC2 Nathan CarpenterUSS Enterprise Public AffairsUSS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – Just about any Sailor aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) can go up to the flight deck, look around and be pretty certain of the next day’s weather forecast. It’s hot, humid, with maybe a few clouds and definitely some wind – especially during flight operations. However, the data and analysis that goes into the reports that come out of the Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) office are a bit more complex and challenging. “We’re more than just weather guessers,” said Aerographer’s Mate 1st Class Latoya Henderson, METOC’s leading petty officer. “We have a big part in tactical operations.” Nearly every major operation conducted aboard Enterprise requires a reliable weather report. It’s so important that it’s the first thing the ship’s commanding officer (CO) gets briefed on at any operational brief. Steady wind, smooth seas and good visibility are important to flight operations but are also important during underway replenishments, live fire exercises, small boat operations and even burials at sea.

Gathering the necessary data is difficult enough for a single location, but aboard an aircraft carrier, Aerographer’s Mates are required to forecast for a moving ship where the area of operation changes quickly to meet the needs of the mission. The ship’s location is also not the only factor; forecasters must also consider the weather that will affect aircraft as pilots carry out their missions. While keeping track of the weather for smooth flight operations is a huge part of the job for METOC personnel, the entire crew relies on their data. One of the biggest considerations is monitoring air temperature and humidity

to ensure that the crew is taking steps to stay safe from the heat. “We keep the ship out of harm’s way,” said Henderson. “Especially when operating in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility, heat is an issue. We’ve seen a heat index as high as 107 degrees.” In addition to monitoring ocean and weather activity, METOC is also responsible for keeping track of marine life that could be endangered by live weapons fire. Known coral reefs and habitats are charted while lookouts are instructed to keep an eye out for any dolphins, whales, floating plants or

More than just a “weather guesser”

Photo by MC2 Nathan Carpenter

any other signs of marine life. “It allows the CO to know what the environment is like so that when we do our exercises we will be conscious of marine life in the area,” said Henderson. In nearly every critical operation, METOC plays a part, providing the information and expertise necessary to make it safe and effective. “We’re technicians who are diligently at work to give updates on current weather conditions,” said Henderson. “We then pass them on to those who need that information to make critical decisions. It’s a team effort.”

Aerographer’s Mate Airman Apprentice Justin D. Morris studies a regional weather report out of USS Enterprise’s (CVN 65) Meteorology and Oceanography office.

the Tuesday June 7, 2011Page 4 SHUTTLE

FUN ZONE!

Sailors of the DayInterior Communications Electrician FiremanAndreliqua C. Cannaday- Columbus, Ohio

Photos by MCSN Gregory A. Pickett

ICFN Cannaday, a visual landing aid/LSO-HUD operator for Enterprise’s Air Department, V-2 division, joined theNavy two years ago to because she wanted to be the first female in her family to serve in the military. To Cannaday, the most rewarding aspect of her job is engaging in anti-piracy operations. Cannaday is working hard toward earning their college degree and aspires to become a naval officer in the future.When she returns from deployment, Cannady plans to spend time with her family and go dancing.

ATAN Stewart, a plane captain trainee for Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, joined the Navy two years ago because he “wanted to do something different.” To Stewart, the most rewarding aspect of his job is the chance to defend our country. Stewart plans to finish his college degree in political science and go on to law school in the future. In his spare time, Stewart likes to play basketball, play chess and read.

Aviation Electronics Technician AirmanTerron Stewart- Tampa, FL

OS3 Boyd, a surface watch officer for Carrier Strike Group 12’s Operations team, joined the Navy five years ago for educational opportunities. To Boyd, the most rewarding aspect of the job is “providing a flawless maritime surface picture.” Boyd aspires to make second class petty officer and earn his enlisted surface warfare specialist pin. Personally, he is working toward a college degree in business administration and would like to own his own business someday. Boyd looks forward to spending time with his daughters when he returns.

Operations Specialist 3rd ClassEric L. Boyd- Savannah, GA

Strike Group 12 Sailor of the Week