June 12, 2012
Vol. 1 Issue 16
All hands man your cleaning stations By MC3 Ian A. Cotter
Quartermaster 3rd Class Tyler Shear raises signal flags aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) as the ship departs its homeport of Naval Station Everett, Wash.
Nimitz to participate in RIMPAC Story by MCSN Jess Lewis Photos by MC3 (SW) Robert Winn
Every two years since 1971, allied nations from around the globe have come together to participate in the world’s largest international maritime exercise, known as Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC). The theme for this year’s RIMPAC is “Capable, Adaptive, Partners.” Twenty-two nations, a variety of ships, submarines and aircraft along with more than 25,000 personnel will participate in this year’s RIMPAC. “For [Operations Department], RIMPAC gives us the opportunity to
apply what we’ve been practicing,” said Cryptologic Technician Technical 1st Class (SW/IDW) Charles Leigh. “It’s the first major exercise for Ops since we’ve been out of the [shipyards].” Vice Adm. Gerald Beaman, commander of the U.S. Third Fleet (C3F) is the slated leader of RIMPAC 2012. However, for the first time, the other sections of the exercise will be led by non-U.S. officers. The Maritime Component and Brig is scheduled to be led by Commodore Stuart Mayer of the Royal Australian Navy and the Air See “RIMPAC” page 6
Every morning, a familiar announcement carries over the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz’ (CVN 68) public announcing system (1MC): “Cleaning stations, cleaning stations. All hands man your cleaning stations. The smoking lamp is out.” Though taken by some as a condemning phrase, that early morning sweepfest is essential to the ship. Breaking it down to basics, cleaning stations and sweepers are designed to clean the ship and get Sailors moving in the mornings and afternoons. Initially, these events are supposed to make the ship look presentable and give the crew a general feel of cleanliness and organization. Working in a spotless, well organized environment generally boosts morale and creates more positive working results. But in order to understand the reason behind the task, one has to look at it from the perspective of what gets swept up and off of the ship. Plenty of dirt, dust and food See “SWEEPERS” page 7