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USS Enterprise (CVN-65) Final Foreign Water Fleet Deployment Part 1 of 6 (10 February to 26 March 2012) |
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A Sailors tale of his Tour of duty in the U.S. Navy (August 1977 to February 1983) Operation Evening Light and Eagle Claw - 24 April 1980
Book - ISBN NO. 978-1-4276-0454-5 EBook - ISBN NO. 978-1-329-15473-5
Operations Evening Light and Eagle Claw (24 April 1980) Iran and Air Arm History (1941 to 1980)
Book ISBN NO. xxxxxxxxxxxxx EBook ISBN NO. 978-1-329-19945-3
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USS Enterprise (CVN-65) Final Foreign Water Fleet Deployment
Part 1 of 6 (10 February to 26 March 2012) Part 2 of 6 (27 March to 12 May 2012) Part 3 of 6 (12 May to 18 July 2012) Part 4 of 6 (19 July to 21 September 2012) Part 5 of 6 (22 September to 3 November 2012) Part 6 of 6 (4 November 2012)
Enterprise Completes Successful Month long Underway
“Sailors aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) returned to Naval Station, Norfolk, Virginia on 10 February 2012 after completing a month of crucial pre-deployment qualifications and certifications at sea from 2 to 9 February 2012. During the past month, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Sailors and Marines participated in three major workup exercises: a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) and exercise Bold Alligator 2012 - the largest naval amphibious exercise conducted in more than a decade from 11 to 29 January 2012. The exercises mark the final steps in the 50-year-old carrier's preparation for its 22nd and final scheduled deployment. The culmination of months of training since Enterprise concluded its last deployment in July 2011, the exercises presented various scenarios and situations the Enterprise crew may face while deployed. "These exercises are important because they allow us to evaluate our ability to accomplish the very missions we will be called upon to complete during deployment," said Rear Adm. Walter E. Carter, commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. "Over the past month we have trained as a strike group and have shown that we are more than capable, as a team, to succeed across the full spectrum of warfare capabilities." The complex scenarios and missions required hard work and dedication at all levels, from the strike group's most senior leadership to the youngest Sailors on the deckplates, experiencing their first underway period. The exercises are designed to involve every warfare area and ensure each Sailor and Marine knows their role to the fullest. "The “Big E” crew did an outstanding job this underway," said Master Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate Eric J. Young, Enterprise's acting command master chief. "Our Sailors and Marines were really put to the test, and they answered those challenges without hesitation. I am very proud of their performance and look forward to deploying with such a motivated team." COMPTUEX, which occupied the first three weeks of the underway, was the first critical test for the strike group to operate together as a cohesive team. Evaluators from Commander, Strike Force Training, Atlantic grade the strike group's overall combat readiness by simulating the occupation of an area with high tensions existing between fictional countries in scenarios loosely based on real world geo-political conditions. "It's important to practice operating under these conditions so we're ready when the time comes to do it all for real, whether it's against pirates or other enemies," said Cmdr. James Midkiff, operations officer for Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. During the scenario-based training, strike group ships encountered threats including small boat attacks, mines, strait transits through hostile waters, aircraft, surface and submarine threats, as well as internal damage control and security threat drills. After accomplishing its tasks, evaluators then certified the strike group for open ocean operations. "I'm extremely proud of how all the Sailors and Marines of the Enterprise, Carrier Air Wing 1, and DESRON 2 team performed during the exercise," said Carter. "The crews' performance during these exercises inspires in me a great sense of confidence that the Enterprise's final deployment will be both memorable and successful." The last week of the month-long underway included both the JTFEX and Bold Alligator 2012 exercises. More than 14,000 personnel from the U.S., France, Great Britain, Canada and other countries joined together in a massive joint exercise involving at least 25 ships. The exercises involved scenarios that required the rapid development of defense strategies to defeat a fictional enemy in an ever-evolving combat climate. The exercises concluded with the launch of a massive amphibious raid from several ships to bring the fictional enemy to their ultimate demise. "We flew 107 sorties [in one day] from Enterprise to support the amphibious landing, which is an amazing feat for our air wing, flight deck crew and maintenance crews that keep things running the way they should," said Midkiff. "It was a great example of our surge capacity and highlighted the key role that a Carrier Strike Group plays in such crucial operations. It's remarkable what we've accomplished as a strike group in such a short period of time - and I have no doubt that we're ready to deploy." In the midst of all the combat training scenarios, Enterprise also played a secondary role. During the last month, Sailors and Marines aboard Enterprise demonstrated the capabilities of the Navy's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and its crew to more than 200 distinguished visitors, including the secretary of defense, chief of naval operations, master chief petty officer of the Navy, chairman and vice chairman of the House Armed Services Committee and other representatives from Congress, Department of Defense, and Navy leadership. Enterprise departed its homeport of Naval Station, Norfolk, Virginia on 11 January 2012, to participate in a COMPTUEX and JTFEX. The early morning departure was the next to last departure from Naval Station Norfolk for the 50-year-old carrier. Enterprise is scheduled to enter deactivation after completing its final deployment later this year. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West visited Enterprise on 12 January 2012 while the ship was underway in the Atlantic Ocean. The visit showcased the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and provided Sailors with an opportunity to interact with the Navy's senior leadership. While aboard, the CNO and MCPON dined with junior Sailors, met with Enterprise's leadership, toured several of the ship's spaces and addressed the crew at an all-hands call in the hangar bay. Religious Ministries Division (RMD) aboard Enterprise began offering the United Through Reading program to all crew members while underway for COMPTUEX on 13 January 2012. United Through Reading is a program designed to allow service members to keep in touch with their children by reading to them on video. "The United Through Reading program is an awesome tool used to connect Sailors, Marines and other service members to their children and families while on deployment," said Chief Religious Programs Specialist Terry A. Burrell, RMD's leading chief petty officer and United Through Reading coordinator on Enterprise. While underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 14 January 2012, Sailors and Marines assigned to Enterprise paused to remember the catastrophic fire that took place on its flight deck in 1969. Capt. William C. Hamilton Jr., commanding officer of Enterprise, addressed the crew over the ship's intercom system while closed circuit TV aired a specially prepared memorial video. The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E Williams (DDG-95) is participating in a COMPTUEX while underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 16 January 2016 to certify the ship for its upcoming fourth deployment. The goal of the exercise is to integrate and assess the staff and individual units within the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, and to grant the strike group major operations certification upon completion. The Combat Direction Center (CDC) aboard Enterprise participated in a variety of training exercises as part of the carrier's COMPTUEX while underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 16 January 2012. The CDC is responsible for tracking and identifying all surface, air and sub-surface contacts and communicating the acquired information throughout the ship and the strike group. Computer systems and radars fill the spaces of CDC, and Sailors from many rates work together to gather, process, display and disseminate information. Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) successfully completed a live-fire exercise of its entire array of gun weapon systems while underway conducting its COMPTUEX with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group on 17 January 2012. Porter fired 47 blank load and powder rounds plus three illumination rounds from the MK-45 5-inch/54 caliber lightweight gun at a moving target that was approximately four nautical miles away, said Ensign Lauren M. Chatmas, the ship's ordnance officer. Sailors assigned to the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) conducted training while underway on 18 January 2012. Porter is underway in the Atlantic Ocean to better prepare for real-world threats it may encounter on deployment. Maritime Interception Operations require VBSS teams to intercept and determine the nature of vessels of interest. VBSS teams will board and search these vessels to determine if the vessel is hostile, said Ensign Bo Doran, the VBSS officer aboard Porter. Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG-94) participated in a VBSS training exercise on 18 January 2012. The scenario tested the ability of the VBSS team to conduct a boarding after pirates attacked a vessel. "They hit us hard," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Jehovani Berrocales, the assistant boarding officer for the VBSS team. Enterprise administered the chief petty officer exam to 285 petty officers first class on 19 January 2012 while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. The annual exam must be completed in less than three hours and consists of 200 questions; 100 test the Sailors' rating knowledge and the remaining 100 questions cover general Navy topics. The Operations Department aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69) took on some additional crew members while underway in the Atlantic Ocean on 19 January 2012. Sailors from other platforms including aircraft carriers and shore commands, are underway with Vicksburg during its COMPTUEX to learn how the many moving parts of a carrier strike group come together to accomplish a larger mission. "It is important to cross-train on various platforms," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class (SW) Andrew M. Jowder, USS Vicksburg Operations Department. As reported on 21 January 2012, U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta arrived aboard Enterprise today to visit the Navy's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier while the ship was underway in the Atlantic Ocean. The visit marks Panetta's first time aboard an aircraft carrier as Secretary of Defense. During his time onboard, Panetta is scheduled to visit several of the 50-year-old carrier's work centers, dine with Sailors and address the crew during an All Hands Call scheduled to be held in the ship's hangar bay. Panetta is also scheduled to re-enlist and present awards to members of the Enterprise crew. Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) Leon E. Panetta visited Enterprise while underway in the Atlantic Ocean from 21 to 22 January 2012. Following his arrival on the carrier's flight deck via helicopter, Panetta was greeted by Rear Adm. Walter E. Carter, commander, Carrier Strike Group 12, and Capt. William C. Hamilton Jr., Enterprise commanding officer. Following a brief meeting, Panetta ate lunch with enlisted Sailors on the mess decks and held an All Hands Call for more than 1,700 Sailors and Marines. Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG-94) participated in a practice strait transit on 23 January 2012. In the scenario, the Nitze, along with Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Porter (DDG-78) and USS James E. Williams (DDG-95), transited the fictional "Beryl Strait" off the coast of the equally fictional country "Amber." During the simulated transit, the small craft action team (SCAT) stationed at weapon mounts on board the ship closely monitored the actions of suspicious vessels. As Enterprise enters the second week of its COMPTUEX on 23 January 2012, Sailors assigned to the carrier's squadrons continue to work around the clock to ensure their aircraft and the personnel who make them fly are ready for “Big E's” upcoming deployment. Sailors of all rates, ranks and backgrounds aboard Enterprise came together in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on 23 January 2012. The Enterprise's Multi-cultural Heritage Committee hosted the ceremony to recognize King for his dream and contributions to American society, and his leadership in the fight for equality. Key speakers recounted stories of witnessing the impact King had on their personal lives, as well as his effect on our nation and our Navy. Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG-95) is participating in an integrated anti-submarine course (IAC) to certify Destroyer Squadron 2 (DESRON 2) during an ongoing COMPTUEX with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group on 26 January 2012. IAC is a series of exercises designed to effectively integrate all the surface and air assets involved in protecting aircraft carrier Enterprise in a strike group setting. The successful completion of the exercises will certify DESRON 2 for the squadron's upcoming deployment. As pilots assigned to the squadrons of Carrier Air Wing 1 continue to earn flight hours aboard Enterprise during the ship's COMPTUEX on 26 January 2012, a group of Sailors is tracking their every movement from their "perch" above the ship. The 'perch' is known as Primary Flight Control (Pri-Fly) - a small room towering seven stories above Enterprise's flight deck that provides its occupants a panoramic view of deck operations below. Located on the 0-11 level, Pri-Fly is the watch station for a crew of around 10 Sailors, all with a primary mission of ensuring Enterprise aircraft are safely launched and recovered. Enterprise conducted COMPTUEX in the Western Atlantic from 11 to 29 January 2012. Cheerleaders and football players from the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars visited Enterprise while the ship was in port at Naval Station Mayport, Fla. on 31 January 2012. The players and cheerleaders took photos with Sailors and Marines, signed autographs and toured the flight deck during their visit to the 50-year-old ship. "This is something that a lot of us have never done before, so it was a great experience to get to tour the actual ship and see all the aircraft," said Chelsea Belloit, Jacksonville Jaguars cheerleader. "We definitely had a great time and we hope to come back and tour again." Enterprise made a port of call at Mayport, FL. on 1 February 2012, in port from 30 January 1 February 2012. Sailors assigned to the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile Destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) completed a replenishment at sea (RAS) with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Lenthall (T-AO-189) on 1 February 2012. (Today) we are taking 160,000 pounds of F-76 fuel and 17 pallets of Cargo from Lenthall," said Chief Boatswain's Mate Anthony P. Osborne. "It will take approximately two hours to complete this RAS evolution." Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) 5 James Yager made history as the last officer aboard the Enterprise to be promoted to the rank of CWO5 during a ceremony held on 1 February 2012 aboard the ship. CWOs are selected through an annual promotion board and Enterprise will decommission with no other CWO4s aboard eligible for the next selection process. The Night Furies of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42, Det. 10 assisted the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group throughout a COMPTUEX by participating in numerous exercises on 2 February 2012. The detachment is contributing to exercise Bold Alligator 2012, the largest amphibious exercise in the past 10 years, as a multipurpose air wing embarked aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG-95). Sailors and Marines aboard Enterprise enjoyed a Super Bowl party hosted by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department on 5 February 2012. Super Bowl XLVI, featuring the New England Patriots and the New York Giants, was shown on an inflatable big screen in the ship's hangar bayRepresentative Howard "Buck" McKeon, Chairman, House Armed Services Committee, Representative William "Mac" Thornberry and Adm. Kirkland Donald, director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion, arrived aboard Enterprise on 5 February 2012 while the ship was underway in the Atlantic Ocean. The visit provided the guests an opportunity to witness carrier operations at sea and to visit with Sailors aboard before the ship deploys on her final deployment. Sailors and Marines from Carrier Air Wing 1 (CVW-1) departed Enterprise after successfully completing a 30-day underway period in the Atlantic Ocean on 9 February 2012. CVW-1 and Enterprise spent the past month participating in a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) and exercise Bold Alligator 2012 (BA12) in preparation for the 50 year-old ship's upcoming final deployment” (Ref. Story Number: NNS120210-05 - Release Date: 2/10/2012 10:51:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter Melkus, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120111-01 - Release Date: 1/11/2012 11:43:00 AM - By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Stephen M. White, USS Enterprise Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120113-02 - Release Date: 1/13/2012 4:29:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, USS Enterprise Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120117-03 - Release Date: 1/17/2012 5:23:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob Galito, USS Enterprise Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120117-04 - Release Date: 1/17/2012 5:30:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs, USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120117-17 - Release Date: 1/17/2012 2:55:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory White, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120119-11 - Release Date: 1/19/2012 12:48:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory White, USS Enterprise Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120119-14 - Release Date: 1/19/2012 1:00:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse L. Gonzalez, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs, USS PORTER, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120119-06 - Release Date: 1/19/2012 10:10:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse L. Gonzalez, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS PORTER, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120120-33 - Release Date: 1/20/2012 11:53:00 PM - Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs, USS NITZE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120120-07 - Release Date: 1/20/2012 12:36:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Eric Brann, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120125-24 - Release Date: 1/25/2012 7:13:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Nicholas Scott, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs, USS VICKSBURG, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120121-04 - Release Date: 1/21/2012 1:55:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120122-03 - Release Date: 1/22/2012 12:57:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120126-01 - Release Date: 1/26/2012 10:30:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton, Enterprise Strike Group Public Affairs, USS NITZE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120125-02 - Release Date: 1/25/2012 3:55:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Peter Melkus, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120125-01 - Release Date: 1/25/2012 3:46:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory White, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120128-06 - Release Date: 1/28/2012 7:40:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120128-08 - Release Date: 1/28/2012 7:48:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Peter Melkus, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120201-04 - Release Date: 2/1/2012 5:33:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS), Story Number: NNS120205-15 - Release Date: 2/5/2012 8:59:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jesse L. Gonzalez, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS PORTER, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120205-10 - Release Date: 2/5/2012 8:43:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory A. Pickett II, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120205-03 - Release Date: 2/5/2012 7:48:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120206-02 - Release Date: 2/6/2012 5:02:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS), Story Number: NNS120205-16 - Release Date: 2/5/2012 9:01:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) & Story Number: NNS120210-02 - Release Date: 2/10/2012 10:37:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kristin L. Grover, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS)).
Vicksburg Departs for Final Deployment
“Guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69) departed its homeport of Mayport, Fla. on 9 March 2012 to make its final deployment, this time as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. Family members, friends and well-wishers gathered on the pier in the early morning hours to bid farewell to loved ones and wish them good luck.
120311-N-KH885-052 - NORFOLK (March 11, 2012) - Sailors man the rails as the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65) departs Naval Station Norfolk for its final deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Perreault/Released)
120311-N-ZE938-078 - NORFOLK (March 11, 2012) - The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65) departs Naval Station Norfolk for the ship's final deployment. Enterprise is deploying as part of Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Frank J. Pikul/Released)
120311-N-KH885-052 - NORFOLK (March 11, 2012) - Sailors man the rails as the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65) departs Naval Station Norfolk for its final deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Perreault/Released)
Enterprise Departs on Final Deployment, the ship's 25th and final deployment (30th FWFD).
“USS Enterprise (CVN-65) with CVW-3, Rear Adm. Ted Carter, commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2 embarked departed Naval Station, Norfolk, Virginia on 11 March 2012, Captain William C. Hamilton, Jr., as Commanding Officer, on her 11th Mediterranean Sea deployment (19th & 20th voyage), operating with the 6th Fleet, en route to the Mediterranean Sea through the Atlantic operating with the Navy's Fleet Forces Command to the Mediterranean Sea, making her 18thSuez Canal transit, on her 18h Red Sea and Gulf of Aden voyage en route to her 13th Arabian Sea deployment as part of an ongoing rotation of U.S. forces in support of her 4th Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and theater security cooperation efforts designed to maintain regional stability in international waters around the globe and her 6th Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), the "military response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, commencing on 7 October 2001, on her 7thArabian/Persian Gulf deployment and 8th aerial Arabian/Persian Gulf deployment via the Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz into the Persian Gulf, operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet, operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain in July 1995, moving ashore in Bahrain in 1993, while their former head quarters, USS LA SALLE departed for overhaul and reassignment, and the 5th Fleet, reactivated with operational control of the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea, while U.S. Naval Forces Central Command operational control extends to the Indian Ocean following the war with Iraq (Operation Desert Storm), with the Commander, 7th Fleet, serving as naval component commander for Central Command, with the beginning of Operation Southern Watch commencing 26 August 1992 (when President George H. W. Bush announced that the United States and its allies had informed Iraq that in 24 hours Allied aircraft would fly surveillance missions in southern Iraq and were prepared to shoot down any Iraqi aircraft flying south of the 32nd parallel, while President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated at 9 p.m. EST 27 February 1992, flight operations ending at midnight), with Operation Desert Storm commencing in the early morning hours of 17 January 1991 until 27 February 1992, when President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated and Operation Desert Storm would end at midnight) and Operation Desert Shield commencing 2 August 1990 (Iraqi occupation of Kuwait). The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group consists of approximately 5,500 Sailors and Marines who, during the last few months, successfully completed a series of complex training events and certifications to ensure they were capable of operating effectively and safely together. "This Strike Group is trained and ready for the full spectrum of operations," said Rear Adm. Ted Carter, commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. "We're ready to maintain freedom of the sea lanes, project power if directed to do so, and certainly perform a presence mission." These skills, which will be vital as the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group travels to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), were recently tested during the carrier's Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). "During my time as Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, I haven't sent a strike group underway that is as ready as you are," said Adm. John C. Harvey, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, while addressing the crew of Enterprise prior to the ship getting underway. "No one has done as much to get ready, worked as hard, and accomplished as much in every warfare area. You should be very proud of what you're going to be doing once you get to where you're going...where the business of the nation needs you." For Enterprise, the Navy's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the deployment represents the culmination of more than 50 years of distinguished service. Commissioned in 1961, the Enterprise is both the largest and oldest active combat vessel in the Navy. Enterprise's age, however, does not impact its effectiveness. "Enterprise is as ready and capable as she has ever been throughout her 50 years," said Capt. William C. Hamilton, Commanding Officer of Enterprise. "The ship and crew's performance during work-ups demonstrates that the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier has never been more relevant." Throughout its storied history, Enterprise has played a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, Vietnam, Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, and was one of the first Navy assets deployed following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The importance of the role Enterprise has played in both national and naval history is a fact not lost on the Sailors and Marines currently aboard the ship. "The crew is very mindful that we are following the legacy of the more than 200,000 Sailors who have come before us during the last 50 years," said Hamilton. "It's the Sailors of this great warship, and the Sailors that have served aboard “Big E” over the past half-century that have established the legacy she enjoys." Enterprise was designed in the late 50's for a 25-year lifespan, and the Nimitz-class carriers were designed for 50 years. "To effectively double the service life of a ship as complex as Enterprise speaks volumes about the design strengths of the world's first nuclear-powered carrier, the Navy's commitment to cost effectiveness, and our Sailors hard work and innovation throughout the last half-century to keep her going strong," said Hamilton. Enterprise is scheduled for deactivation and eventual decommissioning following its anticipated return later this year, marking the end of the carrier's legendary 50-plus years of service. Enterprise will steam from the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz(8 transits while on deployment) into the Gulf of Oman and the North Arabian Sea to the Arabian Sea to the Gulf of Aden (19th voyage) and through the Bab el Mandeb by westerly and northerly courses and enter the Red Sea, on her 19th Red Sea voyage, making her 19th Suez Canal transit to the Mediterranean Sea operating with the 6th Fleet, on her 20th voyage in the Med, steaming through the Atlantic on her way home. She will under go 31st Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD) since her commission November 25, 1961 with Captain V. P. de Poix in command” (Ref. 1-Enterprise, 72, 76, 362H, 1270 & Story Number: NNS120311-02 - Release Date: 3/11/2012 3:16:00 PM - From Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affaire, At Sea (NNS))
USS Enterprise (CVN-65) with CVW-3 (AC) (11 March to 4 November 2012)
“Rear Adm. Ted Carter, commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group is comprised of Enterprise, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69), and guided-missile destroyers USS Porter (DDG-78), USS Nitze (DDG-94), and USS James E. Williams (DDG-95).
USS Porter Rejoins Enterprise Carrier Strike Group
“When guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) and the rest of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group departed Naval Station, Norfolk, Va. on 11 March 2012, the crew was prepared for their deployment. The crew had trained and prepared for many months to be able to provide maritime security, stability and an important naval presence in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.
The repair process they would then undertake would become the most extensive voyage repair, a name given to repairs performed while deployed, ever completed. For more than a month, Porter Sailors, Naval Sea Systems Command and Navy Regional Maintenance Command engineers and civilian contractors worked day and night to get Porter back up and running as intended.
"As the Commander of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, I could not be more proud of what these young men and women accomplished in the hours following the collision as well as the weeks following during which Porter was rebuilt for duty. It is a testament to the quality of our force and what makes the U.S. Navy so formidable."
Enterprise Engineers Power Through
“While getting underway from Naval Station Norfolk, Va. on 11 March 2012, USS Enterprise (CVN-65) experienced extensive fouling to three of her four main engines and five of the ship's eight service turbine generators. Fouling occurs when any foreign debris gets built up in the impellers causing increased pressure on the main engines. It can be anything from small sea creatures to large pieces of trash sucked into the ship's systems creating a blockage.
The ship left 10 minutes earlier than expected March 11, but shortly after getting underway, indication of fouling was observed on three of the ship's service turbine generators (SSTG) and an auxiliary machinery circulation water pump. "We spent most of the night before and the day of deployment getting the systems flushed out," said Lt. Cmdr. John Kajmowicz, Enterprise's main propulsion assistant. "Due to outstanding performance, we were able to clean out the systems and keep us moving."
Kajmowicz said watchstanders are the main reason why the ship continues to move forward. When there is a problem it is the watchstander who notifies central control of the situation. Upon noticing the indications of fouling, machinery division began to systematically open and inspect each of the eight SSTG condensers to clear out any remaining fouling. Engineers removed more than two pounds of debris from the system.
120312-N-PI709-128 - NORFOLK, Va. (March, 12 2012) - The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG-94) departs Naval Station Norfolk as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike group. Nitze will be deployed to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Samantha Thorpe/Released)
USS Nitze Departs for Deployment
“The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG-94) departed Naval Station Norfolk, Va. on 12 March 2012 for a scheduled deployment. Nitze, operating with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, is scheduled to work with coalition maritime forces focusing heavily on Maritime Security Operations and theater security cooperation efforts designed to maintain regional stability.
James E. Williams Departs Norfolk for Fourth Deployment
“Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG-95) departed Norfolk Naval Station on 12 March 2012 on the ship's fourth deployment with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group.
USS Enterprise Sailor Recovered After Falling Overboard
“A Sailor aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) was recovered uninjured after falling overboard at 5:39 a.m. on 15 March 2013.
Enterprise Stands Ready to Respond
“USS Enterprise (CVN-65) conducted a mass casualty drill on 17 March 2012, as part of a continued commitment to mission readiness. A mass casualty is any instance in which the level of casualties is greater than the medical department can support. "The number of casualties that warrants a mass casualty response is typically five or more," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Stuart A. Breen, flight deck corpsman and initial responder. "When this happens, a mass casualty is called away to set up all the battle dressing stations to take on the influx of patients." There are four levels of casualties used to categorize the injured who will then be taken to one of four corresponding triage stations.
"A red station is for those needing immediate care, yellow for those marked delayed, black for expectant and green for what are called 'walking wounded,'" said Breen. Another aspect of a mass casualty event is the activation of the walking blood bank. "This is our way to handle a situation in which, we may need a large quantity of blood to save a patient's life very rapidly," said Breen. "Blood out of body has an expiration date so we store some on board but the rest we must get from the crew." "Anyone can potentially save someone's life by participating in the walking blood bank and those interested should come down to medical to sign up," said Breen.
A mass casualty event doesn't just affect the Medical Department, as the cause of such massive damage and injury would likely be a ship-wide catastrophe. "Today's drill was important because it integrated personnel from medical, damage control, weapons, navigation and the air wing to combat a massive fire with mass casualties on the flight deck," said Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Frank Markulin, assistant drill coordinator. "The flight deck crew and air wing had to respond to two separate scenes while navigation steered the ship to aid in firefighting efforts and rapid elevator transport of the injured to the hangar bay for medical treatment."
The main focus of a drill like this is mission readiness and the overall ability of the Enterprise to carry out its operational missions. "An aircraft carrier exists to launch and recover aircraft," said Markulin. "If there was an actual casualty on the flight deck, we need to get it under control as quickly as possible so the rest of the ship is not affected.
"The Sailors did a great job today combating both fires and medical did an outstanding job with triage," said Markulin. "Remember, it is the blue shirts and junior Sailors who get these fires put out and return the ship to full operational readiness and they deserve that recognition." The sentiment was also expressed by Lt. j.g. Gilbert Lee Bishop II, the mass casualty drill coordinator, who is responsible for making sure everyone is trained to respond to any type of emergency that happens on the flight deck or in the hangar bay. "Today's drill was mainly focused on combating multiple fires and the safe movement of 50 casualties from the flight deck to the hanger bay," said Bishop. "It's all about saving lives and keeping the Enterprise afloat and able to carry out her operational missions," said Bishop” (Ref. Story Number: NNS120319-18 - Release Date: 3/19/2012 10:07:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Randy J. Savarese, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS)).
Porter Sailors Maintain Readiness
“As Sailors aboard USS Porter (DDG-78) continue across the Atlantic Ocean on 17 March 2012, they take advantage of the time during the transit to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation to further hone their mission readiness.
Enterprise Honors 11 with Burial at Sea
“Sailors assigned to USS Enterprise (CVN-65) committed the remains of 11 veterans, including two former Enterprise Sailors, to their final resting place in the Atlantic Ocean during a burial at sea ceremony on 17 March 2012.
It's through ceremonies like these that we live out what it means to be true shipmates"” (Ref. Story Number: NNS120317-11 - Release Date: 3/17/2012 11:56:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter Melkus, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS)).
Enterprise Sailors Conduct Missile Upload
“Sailors aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) conducted an ammunition upload for multiple weapons systems used in shipboard defense from 15 to 17 March 2012.
120319-N-WO496-036 - ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 19, 2012) - The guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69) performs tactical maneuvers in the Atlantic Ocean. Vicksburg is deployed as part of Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alex R. Forster/Released)
120319-N-FI736-133 - ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 19, 2012) - The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65) is underway as part of Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman/Released)
“Medical Department Sailors aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) conducted a ship-wide vaccination, or SHOTEX, while on deployment from 19 to 20 March 2012.
120321-N-VH054-043 - ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 21, 2012) - The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) transits the Atlantic Ocean. Porter is deployed with Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Harry Andrew D. Gordon/Released)
120321-N-NL401-017 - ATLANTIC OCEAN (March 21, 2012) - The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65), the guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) participate in an replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE-6). Enterprise, Vicksburg, Porter, and Supply are deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel/Released)
Enterprise CSG Completes Passing Exercise
“Enterprise Carrier Strike Group (CSG) completed a series of training evolutions with Standing NATO Maritime Group (SNMG) 1 during a passing exercise (PASSEX) in the Mediterranean Sea from 24 to 25 March 2012. During the two-day exercise, nine ships from multiple navies were provided the opportunity to work together to promote communications, interoperability and partnership for the shared goal of maintaining the safety and security of the region's sea lanes.
"PASSEX allows the Enterprise CSG to train with our coalition partners, build on relationships and maintain our interoperability," said Cmdr. Richard D. Brawley, surface operations officer for Carrier Strike Group 12. One of the evolutions conducted was a link exercise (LINKEX), which employed the Link-11 and Link-16 tactical data link systems to trade communications, intelligence and other data directly among all the ships in the exercise. The ships used these systems during an air-defense exercise to increase self defense and create a better situational awareness.
"During the exercise we're tracking the other NATO ships, merchant vessels in the area and several contacts playing the role of hostiles all at the same time," said Operations Specialist Seaman Recruit Sarah Fowler, an assistant surface watchstander. "The training was definitely intense because you have to be on point all the time." U.S. and NATO Sailors from each ship also had the opportunity to cross-deck to the other ships. Sailors toured spaces and met with their counterparts to get a feel for how Sailors on the other ships live and work. "The visits allow the Sailors to build a mutual understanding of one another," said Brawley. "This way the Sailors get a face with the name. When we do an exercise with NATO, we now have a personal relationship to build upon and spread esprit de corps with the rest of the crew around the ship." According to Brawley, the exchange was also beneficial to visiting staff, who were able to see first-hand the related procedures and protocol used by the different navies. This better prepares Enterprise officers to be able to provide products NATO units may request. "The exercise was very beneficial to our watchstanders because it prepares you to work with other nations," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Milandy Rodriguez, assistant surface watch officer.
"This will help us as we begin our deployment and enter the 5th Fleet area of responsibility." This PASSEX involved aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65), the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Nitze, USS Porter, USS James E. Williams and the guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg, all part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. SNMG 1 is comprised of the Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS De Ruyter (F-804), the Spanish Navy frigate Alvaro de Bazan (F 101), the German Navy frigate FGS Rheinland-Pfalz (F-209), and the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH-339).
Enterprise and the rest of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group are deployed to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Training evolutions like PASSEX are important elements of the readiness area of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative which consolidates a set of objectives and policies, new and existing, to maximize Sailor and Marine personal readiness, build resiliency and hone the most combat-effective force in the history of the Department” (Ref. Story Number: NNS120326-02 - Release Date: 3/26/2012 5:46:00 AM - By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Steve Smith, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs, USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS)).
“The Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG-94) arrived in Villefranche, France on 25 March 2012 for a regularly-scheduled port visit.
“The Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) arrived in Palma, Spain on 26 March 2012 for a regularly scheduled port visit.
“USS Enterprise (CVN-65) was underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 24 to 27 March 2012” (Ref. 76).
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