Expeditionary Express October

EXpeditionary e xpre s s A

Navy

E xpedi t i on ary

Co m bat

Commander’s Meetings Opened 3 Up To NECC Members

Q&A: Meet NECC's Newest Leaders

5

Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command Recognizes 10th Anniversary

18

CRG One Holds Change of Command Ceremony

19

Com m and

Pu bl i cat io n

EXERcisE BOLD ALIGATOR OCTOBER 2017

EXERcisE DAWN BLITZ

Expeditionary E xpr e s s

Q&A Meet two of NECC's newest leaders -- Rear Adm.

Exercise Dawn Blitz 2017 Complete, Setting the Standard for New Amphibious Capabilities -- Dawn Blitz is a scenario-driven

exercise designed to train and integrate Navy and Marine Alan Reyes, commander, NAVELSG, and Capt. Stan Chien, Corps units that conclded on Oct. 27. (read more on page commodore, CRG 1. (read more on page 4 & 5) 14)

NECC Overview 7

U.S., Sri Lanka Partner for First Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Commander’s Meetings Opened Up To NECC Training Exercise -- U.S. and Sri Lankan maritime Members -- Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy forces worked together for the first–ever Cooperation

Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and NECC Afloat Readiness and Training exercise with the arrival Pacific, recently invited members Force-wide to participate in of U.S. Navy elements in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, Oct. 1, his weekly update brief as well as his bi-monthly secure video 2017. (read more on page 16) teleconference with Echelon IV commanders. (read more on page 3)

NMCB 4 Assumes Charge of Pacific CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation donate Region -- U.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion painting to NECC -- On behalf of the CEC/Seabee (NMCB) 4 assumed charge of Western Pacific Naval

12

Historical Foundation, the foundation’s chairman David Nash presented a print of the oil painting, “WE BUILD, Construction Force operations during a Relief in Place/ WE FIGHT” by artist James Dietz, to Rear Adm. Brian Transfer of Authority ceremony on Camp Shields in Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 14. (read more on page 17) Command (NECC) and NECC Pacific, for display at NECC headquarters, Oct. 2. (read more on page 6)

US, Dutch and German Navies Conduct Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures Exercise -- Sailors from the U.S. Navy, Royal

Netherlands Navy and German Navy completed a weeklong Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures (ExMCM) training evolution as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 2017 (BA17), Oct. 23. (read more on page 10)

15

NMCB 11, EODMU 2 Complete R-ADR during Exercise Bold Alligator 2017 --

Sailors assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 2 conducted rapid airfield damage repair proof-of-concept tasking as part of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic, Oct. 27. (read more on page 11)

Seabees answer the call in Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and Key West -- Hurricanes

Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command Recognizes 10th Anniversary-- Sailors from the Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command took pause from their normal routine Oct. 5 to celebrate the command's 10th anniversary. (read more on page 18)

CRG 1 Holds Change of Command --

Coastal Riverine Group (CRG) 1 held a change of command ceremony Oct. 18 on San Clemente Island. (read more on page 19)

Navy Birthday Admiral Richardson releases a birthday message to the Navy. (read more on page 8)

Irma and Maria devastated Peurta Rico but local Seabees from Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit 202 stepped up to assist by providing much needed relief in a critical time of need. (read more on page 13)

18

Follow us on Social Media

/NavyExpeditionaryCombatCommand

@COMNECC 2

NECC Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Cate Cook Comm: (757) 462-4316 ext. 252 Email: cate.cook@navy.mil

NECC Public Affairs Staff MCC Edward Kessler MC2 Travis DiPerna

Commander’s Meetings Opened Up To NECC Members

by MC2 Travis DiPerna

V

IRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and NECC Pacific, recently invited members Force-wide to participate in his weekly update brief as well as his bi-monthly secure video teleconference with Echelon IV commanders.

Command members now have two different options to participate in the meetings.

Lt. Cmdr. Malachy Soller, deputy force judge advocate, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), tests equipment that will be used to call into Rear Adm. Brian Brakke’s, commander, NECC and NECC Pacific, weekly update brief. Photo by MC2 Travis DiPerna

Those in the local Hampton Roads area can participate by visiting an overflow space located in Room 116 of the NECC headquarters building on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Fort Story.

Members who are outside the local area or simply wish to participate from their SIPR work station can do so remotely via defense collaberation sevices (DCS).

“Communications of intent and priorities from a commander to his staff is often challenging to convey through multiple layers of a chain of command,” said Capt. Jim McGovern, chief of staff, NECC. “By opening up these meetings to all hands, there will be a lot more transparency.”

As part of this initiative, all meeting participants Forcewide can listen to the discussions, ask questions and get better insight into the commander’s thought, direction, and decision making process.

As part of increasing the flow and scope of communications, Brakke believes this initiative will help flatten the organization, making it a better, more efficient fighting force.

“This can help our entire Force,” said Brakke. “Personnel won’t have to wait for their N-code to come back and brief their division. They will be right there listening. They can even ask questions or provide input directly. They can very well have a piece of the information that is missing or we can even link two people who are now in the conversation together more quickly. I think that is what flattening the organization is.”

NECC Forces with SIPRNet access can participate in the meetings remotely by clicking on the dedicated DCS link found in the Battle Rhythm or on top of the “Read ahead” document page posted on NECC’s SIPR portal page.

“The thought was - how do you get the information disseminated quickly, without having to follow a vertical chain of command,” said Brakke. “I think this is the perfect way to accomplish that goal.”

3

MEET TWO OF NECC’S NEWEST LEADERS RdmL ALAN REYES N AV E L S G C o m m a n d e r

How would you describe your leadership philosophy/style?

What keeps you up at night?

I believe in servant-leadership. As a leader, one’s role is to set the conditions for your teammates’ success. You ensure they have the right training, you ensure they understand the mission and their role in that mission, and you seek to understand what they - and their families - need to succeed and flourish, not only while part of your team but also as they move to the next tour or phase of their lives.

While it doesn’t keep me up at night per se, my main concern is to keep developing our logistics expertise to be highly effective in “tomorrow’s fight” ... as threats to our national security evolve, so must we. I look to each and every one of my NAVELSG teammates to help us do just that, so we can ALL sleep at night!

Aside from NAVELSG what was one of your favorite tours in the Navy and why?

Serving on my first tour in the Navy as a JO aboard a fast-attack submarine was my formative experience in the Navy ... working with a tight-knit, motivated, and well-trained crew to fulfill a unique and important mission. We worked hard, traveled to many places, and made a difference.

How have you seen NAVELSG change since you first joined the Navy?

NAVELSG has changed in many positive ways since I first served as an Air Cargo Company Commander in 2002. As the logistics requirements for us to win decisively changed, so have we. We have evolved our mission set well beyond our core capability of moving cargo via surface and air to a myriad of expeditionary logistics functions, especially ordnance handling and expeditionary fuel. There is no better time to be an Expeditionary Logistician than now!

How do you measure success?

Success can be measured in many ways. Certainly, mission success is the key test for any operational unit ... do you have what it takes to win and fight? Readiness is the main measure of that success ... do we have the right people, equipment, training, logistics, and operational mindset to achieve our goals? On a personal/individual level, success should be measured by the ability to move forward on all fronts ... personal/family, professional/military, as well as civilian career for our reserve members.

What are you reading right now?

I recently finished “Ghost Fleet” ... a fictional account of war in today’s technologically advanced world. I am about to start “Fire on the Water: China, America, and the Future of the Pacific.”

What’s one mistake you made early in your career and how did it shape you as a leader?

So many mistakes to choose from! One mistake, however, that I’d highlight is that when I was a young Lt. j.g., I was assigned as the command Combined Federal Campaign coordinator ... we failed miserably at our fundraising efforts because I tried to take on the whole project myself. I learned that you need to build and trust a team to get things done. As I take on positions of increased responsibilities, I know that I must count on even more advisors, counselors, and staffers who can guide us to the right decisions and to mission success.

What do you envision for NAVELSG under your leadership?

I expect every member of NAVELSG to make us the best command to “Bring the Fight!” and to “Do It Right!” We Bring the Fight as the expeditionary logisticians who are always ready to bring the cargo, equipment, fuel, ordnance, and everything else that our warfighters need to win decisively. We Do It Right means that we not only operate safely, effectively, and efficiently, but just as important, we make the right decisions ethically to take care of ourselves, our shipmates, and those around us ... as said in the Sailors’ Creed, excellence and the fair treatment of all.

What do you see as the most rewarding part of your new position?

I'm humbled by the opportunity to continue shaping NAVELSG into the most effective expeditionary logistics provider for our Naval and Joint forces. I’m equally excited to serve 2,700 Sailors and Civilians who comprise this outstanding Group.

4

C a p t S ta n C h i e n CRG 1 Commodore

How would you describe your leadership philosophy/style?

I’m a believer in leadership by walking around. I’m a believer in empowering the Sailor. I’m a believer in establishing clear and unambiguous expectations for Sailors and Commands so they can then plan, achieve and excel. I’m also a believer in “trust but verify.”

Aside from CRG 1 what was one of your favorite tours in the Navy and why?

Though a SWO who has enjoyed every minute aboard ship, my two favorite tours have been my command of both COASTAL RIVERINE SQUADRON THREE (then MSRON3) and TASK GROUP TRIDENT (Navy Military Police Battalion, Bagram Afghanistan). I was blessed during both tours to deploy forward and work alongside phenomenal Sailors who were motivated to serve their country, command and Shipmates in some very challenging situations. On each occasion and something I’m very proud of, my Sailors set the bar for standards of performance and personal conduct. Additionally, I had the privilege to serve alongside some Senior Enlisted Leaders who I greatly respect and who I learned from on a daily basis. My hat is off to the Chief ’s Mess in both commands.

How have you seen CRG 1 change since you first joined the Navy?

Because of my previous command tour of now CRS3, I first came to know CRG1 as MESG1 in ‘08-’10. Though its name has changed and it has re-organized a bit, its mission of man / train / equip (MT&E) has remained steady as has the quality of the Sailor aboard. I would say the biggest change I have noted is the maturing of the force. What I mean by this is that when in squadron command, I would seek guidance from MESG1 in a variety of areas and sometimes receive less than complete answers. The reality was that at the time, there were many unknowns within the force. Today, CRG1 in coordination with CRG2, has taken on the challenge of MT&E developing force-wide policies, TTPs, CONOPS and standards. We’ve also taken on some tough issues to help inform TYCOM business. Bottom line, CRG1 is much more of a professional force than ever.

How do you measure success?

Measuring success can be a challenging thing. Some measure by metrics, some measure by achievement. On Pacific Partnership 17, when speaking to the Sri Lankan Navy leadership, I told them I measured success by the smiles and tears of the Sri Lankan people that we were helping by repairing schools and providing medical care. So I think success is a very subjective thing. I believe that if CRG1 can effectively provide properly manned, trained and equiped forces to the combatant commanders all the while developing and empowering our Sailors, that our command would be successful.

What do you see as the most rewarding part of your new position?

I think what’s most rewarding of being the Commodore is my access to Sailors. Because I have a great leadership team, I have a little more time now to get out and see our Sailors in action. I try and take a walk every day in our hangar to pop my head in every office to chat with Sailors. I can travel to Guam, Bahrain, Kuwait, UAE and Djibouti to speak with

Sailors on the tip of the spear and learn about them personally and professionally. I make time to ride with the crews on MK VI, shoot small arms and crew served weapons, fly PUMAs and PT with our Sailors. It’s the best.

What keeps you up at night?

Tough question. As an old SWO, I’ve been brought up on ships where planning, decision making, training, eating and sleeping all took place within 567 feet of each other. The responsibility of the safety of the ship and crew was with the Captain who was present at nearly all times. The Captain’s years of experience and judgment were ever present and reassuring to the entire crew that they were doing the right thing.

Within the CRF and all our NECC communities, we push responsibility for decision making to a very low level. As an example, when in O5 command, I qualified an E5 as a patrol leader who routinely led five boat patrols escorting aircraft carriers, and strategic assets in and out of port. He was perhaps my best patrol leader, E5 to O2, and I trusted him.

There are many more examples of young Sailors put in positions of huge responsibility, but this is routine within CRF. What keeps me up at night is questioning did I provide the young Sailor, who then has my authority for batteries release or jeopardizing another Sailor's safety, enough training and resources so that he/she can accomplish the mission at hand safely and effectively. I’ve made it a habit to speak to my squadron COs about this very topic.

What are you reading right now?

Ha! Believe it or not, I’m a fan of a few Porsche and BMW internet car forums . Nothing better for me to relax my brain then to read about cars!

What’s one mistake you made early in your career and how did it shape you as a leader?

When I was a young division officer, I did not communicate as well as I should have - this was communicating with my Sailors and with my chain of command. It took a strong Chief to show me how I was affecting morale, the well-being of Sailors and effectiveness of the command by not being more forthright. Since then, I’ve never been shy about voicing concerns, observations or opinion. I also encourage this very same thing of Sailors in leadership positions no matter their seniority.

What do you envision for CRG 1 under your leadership?

I think CRG1 has never had a better leadership team than now. From the triad, Wardroom, Chief ’s Mess and crew, never has the command had so much talent and enthusiasm. I want to develop and empower my Sailors. I want to tackle the challenges of integrating our CRF forces with our blue water fleet counterparts and Marine Corps brethren. I want to develop a command culture of initiative, collaboration and innovation.

None of this is easy, but I believe we as a command can get there if we trust our Shipmates.

5

CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation donate painting to NECC

By MC2 Travis DiPerna

VIRGINIA

BEACH, Va. – On behalf of the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation, the foundation’s chairman David Nash presented a print of the oil painting, “WE BUILD, WE FIGHT” by artist James Dietz, to Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and NECC Pacific, for display at NECC headquarters, Oct. 2.

On behalf of the CEC/Seabee Historical Foundation, David Nash, left, chairman, CEC and Richard Cellon, right, vice chairman, CEC, presents a print of the oil painting, “WE BUILD, WE FIGHT” by James Dietz, to Rear Adm. Brian J. Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and NECC Pacific, for display at NECC, October 2. Photo by MC2 DiPerna

During the presentation ceromony, Brakke spoke about the Seabee culture that the painting represents.

“Those of you who know me, know I often speak of a book titled Legacy that’s about one of the most successful rugby teams of all time,” said Brakke. “One of the key leadership lessons in the book is this - if you get the culture right, the rest will follow. This painting represents the culture the Seabees have cultivated throughout their history and it is an honor to have it displayed at NECC headquarters.”

The painting was created in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the U.S. Navy Seabees which occurred on March 5, 2017. For 75 years, the Seabees have repeatedly demonstrated their skills as fighters and builders and while doing so they have built and fought for freedom both in peace and in war time.

“Dietz went to a Seabee base in Port Hueneme, California and talked to a bunch of Seabees,” said Nash. “Every one of the faces in the painting are actually portraits of current active-duty Seabees. “

6

The idea behind the painting was to capture what the Seabees stand for, continued Nash. The uniforms and equipment are representations of Seabees throughout history, from World War II to present day.

The original oil painting will be dedicated to all Seabees past, present and future and will be permanently on display at the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum in Port Hueneme, California.

Around

The force

U.S. Navy Electronics Technician 2nd Class Jairo Diaz, assigned to Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 2, mans a .50-caliber machine gun aboard a MK VI patrol boat while providing high value asset protection for the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) as it transits to Apra Harbor, Guam, Oct. 31, 2017. CRS-2, assigned to Coastal Riverine Group (CRG) 1 Detachment Guam, is capable of conducting maritime security operations across the full spectrum of naval, joint and combined operations. Photo by MC1 Benjamin A. Lewis

Utilitiesman 3rd Class Johntaylor Delay (left) and Steelworker 3rd Class Jared Campos, assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 3, place a screen over an air vent during construction at Esperanza Elementary School in Casiguran, Aurora, Philippines, Oct. 6, 2017. photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dominique M. Lasco

U.S. Navy Builder 2nd Class Kyle Forsman, assigned to Underwater Construction Team 2, welds zinc anodes for underwater pier maintenance at Naval Base Guam, Oct. 19, 2017. systems. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Arthurgwain L. Marquez

Navy Divers from Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit Two talk to visitors at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum as part of Navy Week Little Rock 2017 on Oct. 19, 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven Leigh Ellis

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) and NECC Pacific, receives a brief from U.S. Navy Builder 2nd Class Juana Port about an Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 Detachment Guam’s construction project during a visit to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 75 commands on Naval Base Guam Oct. 13, 2017. U.S. Navy Combat Camera photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dominique M. Lasco

Sailors pose for a photo with local citizens during a bridge inspection for a future community relations project site during Southern Partnership Station 17 on Oct. 5, 2017. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeremy Starr

7

C h i e f o f n ava l o p e r at i o n s

A dm .

r ich a r d s o n’s

b i rt h day

me ssa ge

Team, Today, we pause to reflect on our U.S. Navy’s 242 years of dedication and service.

Tracing our origins back to the Continental Navy in 1775, the U.S. Navy has stood the watch in every corner of the globe, protecting America from attack and promoting our interests around the world.

The security environment today is fast-paced, complex, and increasingly competitive – the perfect conditions for our naval forces to succeed! The men and women of the U.S. Navy have our best days when we draw inspiration from the Sailors that have gone before. Our history is rich with heroes that fought at Coral Sea, Midway and Guadalcanal 75 years ago. Today, we strive to operate and fight with the same integrity, accountability, initiative and toughness, as they demonstrated.

Dana and I are privileged to be a part of such an amazing team of Sailors, civilians and families. Thanks to each and every one of you for your commitment to our Navy and our nation.

Happy birthday, shipmates!

Capt. James McGovern, chief of staff, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), speaks during NECC’s Navy birthday celebration. Photo by MC2 Travis DiPerna

8

9

US, Dutch and German Navies Conduct Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (NNS)

-- Sailors from the U.S. Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy and German Navy completed a week-long Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures (ExMCM) training evolution as part of Exercise Bold Alligator 2017 (BA17), Oct. 23.

The combined ExMCM force had members from the Royal A Royal Netherlands Navy Diver enters the water during an expeditionary mine countermeasures evolution as part Netherlands Navy Defense Dive of exercise Bold Alligator 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki Group Very Shallow Water (VSW) Dive Platoon, German Navy Mine Clearance Diving complete all our taskings and meet our timeline of three Company and U.S. Navy ExMCM Company 202, a combined days while integrating with the Dutch and German navies. unit comprised of Sailors from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operationally, it was a huge success.”

(EOD) Mobile Unit 2 MCM platoon, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 unmanned systems platoon and the During the three-day training evolution, the ExMCM Naval Oceanographic Mine Warfare Center post-mission force was tasked to clear a path for amphibious forces to analysis cell. conduct an amphibious assault on the beach. The three-day training evolution evaluated the ExMCM force’s ability to BA17 is a live, events-driven exercise featuring U.S. execute a detect-to-engage sequence. U.S. and Dutch teams Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and partner nation forces. The used unmanned underwater vehicle side-scan sonar to find exercise provides the Navy and Marine Corps team tactical potential mine-like objects before sending out the Dutch level training for amphibious operations which are core VSW divers or the U.S. Seabotix Remote Operated Vehicle requirements to maritime power projection. to confirm whether the objects were mines.

The exercise incorporates amphibious, carrier strike group, air wing and ExMCM operations to provide a rigorous training environment for the combined forces.

“Even with the modification in breadth, BA17 has been a great opportunity for us to practice ExMCM in a joint operational environment,” said Lt. Mike Collier, officer in charge of ExMCM Company 202.

The scope of the exercise was modified because of Navy and Marine Corps efforts in the wake of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.

10

“Our mission was to clear the shallow, littoral waters consisting of three boat lanes that were 500 yards wide by three nautical miles long of any possible mines laid by simulated enemy forces,” Collier said. “We were able to

“Being able to take part in an exercise in a proper amphibious scenario with real ships and equipment with real Marines landing ashore has been very beneficial,” said Netherlands Marine Corps Capt. Rick In De Braekt, officer in charge of the Royal Netherlands Navy VSW platoon. “We were lucky to be able to work with our U.S. counterparts because there is a lot of knowledge that we have been able to exchange during the exercise. Our units have a lot of unique lessons that have been learned over time, so we are all leaving here as more capable units.”

EOD Group 2, headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach, oversees all East Coast-based Navy EOD mobile units, including one forward-deployed mobile unit in Spain, as well as EOD Expeditionary Support Unit 2, EOD Training and Evaluation Unit 2 and MDSU 2.

NMCB 11, EODMU 2 Complete R-ADR during Exercise Bold Alligator 2017

From Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 Public Affairs

A

TLANTIC, N.C. (NNS) -Sailors assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 11 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 conducted rapid airfield damage repair (R-ADR) proof-of-concept tasking as part of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 (BA17) at Marine Corps Outlying Field (MCOLF) Atlantic, Oct. 27.

The team successfully identified and repaired 30 craters in 14 hours, significantly ahead of schedule.

Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 11 fill a crater using a ‘Super Sack’ during a rapid airfield damage repair exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic as part of exercise Bold Alligator 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Collin Turner

The exercise emphasized command and control integration while experimenting with new techniques and technologies.

The interoperability training between the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command enterprise, Expeditionary Warfighting Development Center and subordinate units will help establish new tactics and procedures to improve the way R-ADR is conducted in the future.

The Damage Assessment Team (DAT) identified craters, spalls, potential unexploded ordnance and the initial evaluation of each location. The crew then determined a minimum-operating strip based on the size and type of aircraft using the runway.

EODMU 2 Sailors flew an unmanned aerial system to identify potential unexploded ordnance and specific crater locations during the airfield assessment, and 67 Seabees from NMCB-11 analyzed the data then planned and executed the repair.

“Having EOD feeding us data was absolutely helpful,” said Engineering Aide 1st Class David Lawlor. “Being able to gather real-time imagery makes the process of identifying craters and spalls so much faster, and it seems to be much more efficient.”

Once the DAT completed the assessment of the airfield, they relayed the information to the Emergency Operating Center to rapidly formulate a plan to repair the damage in the safest, most expeditious manner.

“This exercise tested ‘Lucky Eleven’s’ ADR readiness, skill and knowledge in locating and repairing airfield damage,” said Equipment Operator 1st Class Kevin Rapier. “I think we did a great job, and I’m proud of what my team accomplished.”

11

Since its inception during the early days of World War II, R-ADR, or rapid runway repair as it was formerly known, has been one of the Seabees’ core competencies. During the Vietnam War, the ability to keep runways operational to launch and recover aircraft was vital to mission success.

The United States faces potential threats around the globe where Seabees may be called upon for mission-critical R-ADR. Homeported in Gulfport, Mississippi, NMCB-11 is part of the Naval Construction Force (NCF). The NCF is a vital component of the U.S. Maritime Strategy and is comprised of deployable battalions capable of providing contingency construction, disaster preparation and recovery support, humanitarian assistance, and combat operations support.

EODMU 2, based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach, provides operational explosive ordnance disposal capability as required for location, identification, rendering safe, recovery, field evaluation and disposal of all explosive ordnance, including chemical and nuclear weapons.

BA17 was designed to improve Navy-Marine Corps amphibious core competencies along with coalition, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Allied and partner nations. These partner nations see exercises such as this as a necessary investment in the current and future readiness of their forces. BA17 took place Oct. 18-30, ashore along the eastern seaboard.

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www. facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2,

EXercise

BolD Alligator

Navy, Marine Corps and partner nation forces particapted in Exercise Bold Alligator 2017 in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and at-sea Atlantic ranges Oct. 18 - 30. The live, events-driven exercise provided tactical level training for amphibious operations that serve as core requirements to maritime power projection.

Engineman 1st Class Dustin Collins, assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2 unmanned systems platoon, examines a combat rubber reconnaissance craft outboard motor prior to an expeditionary mine countermeasures evolution as part of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 on Oct. 20, 2017. Photo by MC2 Charles Oki

A Sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2 checks an unmanned aerial system prior to flight during Exercise Bold Alligator 2017 at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic on Oct 26, 2017. photo by MC1 Collin Turner

Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 spread concrete during a rapid airfield damage repair exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field (MCOLF) Atlantic during Bold Alligator 2017, on Oct. 27, 2017. Photo by MC1 Collin Turner

An explosive ordnance disposal technicians assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 2 operates a Seabotix Remote Operated Vehicle during an expeditionary mine countermeasures evolution as part of exercise Bold Alligator 2017 on Oct. 20, 2017. Photo by MC2 Charles Oki

Builder Constructionman Grant Wells, a Seabee assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 11, spreads concrete during a rapid airfield damage repair exercise at Marine Corps Outlying Field (MCOLF) Atlantic during Bold Alligator 2017 on Oct 27, 2017. photo by MC1 Collin Turner

12

Seabees answer the call in Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and Key West

by Lance Cpl. Tojyea G. Matally

CEIBA, Puerto Rico -- As this year’s

hurricane season comes to an end, many Americans in the Caribbean and Florida will be left without homes and personal belongings for some time to come. Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated these areas, but local Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion (PHIBCB) 2 and Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 202 stepped up to assist by providing much needed relief in a critical time of need.

A total of 68 members from PHIBCB 2 and CBMU 202, broken into five Disaster Relief teams (DRTs), with their civil engineering support Construction Mechanic 3rd class Mark Robbins, assigned to Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit 202, embarked aboard the equipment (CESE) embarked the USS amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), clears a road in Ponce, Puerto Rico. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Kearsarge (LHD 3), USS Oak Hill Specialist 3rd Class Michael Eduardo Jorge.

(LSD 51), and USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) in efforts to provide a sea base capable of projecting aid ashore in very airfields were only capable of landing one plane every half-hour. After limited access areas. the repairs were made, air assets were being landed every five minutes.

On Sept. 6, Hurricane Irma walloped the U.S. Virgin Islands and Keys with her Category 5 winds exceeding sustained speeds of 180 mph, leaving vegetative debris, power lines and mudslides throughout the U.S. territories.

As history would tell, the Seabees were called upon, this time to use their chainsaws and CESE to remedy the situation. Hampered by the high heat and humidity, the Seabees relentlessly tackled over 50 miles of roadways and five acres of airfields throughout the islands and Keys, avoiding live electrical power lines downed by the storm. Guided by members of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico (VIPR) National Guard as well as locals, the teams cleared several major routes on St. Thomas, St. John and Key West over the span of eight days, opening lanes of transit to the resident populace. Results were apparent immediately with motor vehicle traffic beginning to flow freely and locals cheering and waving to the Seabees as they paved their way to victory.

“The single greatest benefit from our hard work in the Virgin Islands was seeing the enhancement of aid from the cleared thoroughfares we provided,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Gregory Torres. “This allowed Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit and VIPR National Guardsman the ability to utilize heavy cargo trucks to push pallets of life essential supplies to local points of distribution.”

Unfortunately the Seabees’ job was not finished, three days after they returned aboard their respective vessels; Puerto Rico was struck by Hurricane Maria and left in dire need of assistance. Sent ashore via Landing Craft Utility‘s (LCUs) from Assault Craft Unit TWO, the Seabees again joined forces to tackle the island’s choked roadways.

The Seabees initial tasking was clearing Highways 191 and 9966 in El Yunque National Forest to gain access to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) relay tower high upon the mountains, which was barely surviving on generator power and working at reduced capacity due to Maria’s intense winds. The Seabees quickly made friends with locals running heavy construction equipment and together cleared 10 miles of dense rain forest debris in four days, allowing necessary repairs to be made to the FAA tower. Prior to the repairs, the surrounding

In conjunction with the repairs to the FAA relay tower, the Seabees set up camp at La Cieba Airport where they cleared over four acres of hazardous brush along the runways allowing C-5 Galaxy and C-17 aircraft, the largest cargo carrying air assets available to military forces, the ability to land. Within one week of the Seabees opening the airfields, over 600 civilian and government air operations took place enabling the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Air Force to flood the island with supplies.

Once all route clearing missions were complete, the Seabees again found their skillsets called upon in Puerto Rico. This time their tasking was to utilize their subject matter expertise to provide damage assessments and minor repairs to major infrastructures. With the electrical grid on the island disabled by Maria, critical facilities were running on emergency power generation with no distribution of fuel available, causing hospital operation sustainment to become the island’s top priority. Combining forces with the 26th MEU Medical team, two eight man teams over a period of four days embarked on a mission to inspect and assess the integrity and operational status of hospitals located in the central and eastern parts of Puerto Rico. The Seabees conducted assessments of 15 total hospitals, recording structural damage, water and fuel levels and operability of emergency generators ranging from 250 kilowatts to 1500 kilowatts.

Throughout this daunting challenge, the Seabees inspected and performed corrective maintenance on over 30 generators, repairing two critical emergency diesel generators at two hospitals, ensuring 13 intensive care unit patients, 12 new born babies and mothers, five life support patients, and over 300 dialysis patients had electricity to lifesaving medical equipment. During a time of crisis, these assessments and minor repairs permitted 5,000 residents to receive treatment for injuries caused by the storm with 1,200 patients able to be admitted. In total, these 13 hospitals directly supported over 750,000 Puerto Rican citizens. The Seabees’ assessment and minor repair efforts provided valuable assistance in humanitarian relief throughout the island of Puerto Rico but most of all, helped to save countless lives.

13

Exercise Dawn Blitz 2017 Complete, Setting the Standard for New Amphibious Capabilities

By Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Graham

D

awn Blitz is a scenario-driven exercise designed to train and integrate Navy and Marine Corps units by providing a robust training environment where forces plan for and establish expeditionary advanced bases (EAB), execute an amphibious assault, engage in live-fire events, and integrate fifth-generation aviation capabilities in a land and maritime threat environment to test new integration and concepts of operation.

14

Planning and preparations began for Dawn Blitz in October 2016. This exercise is the culmination of a year’s worth of effort by the 1st MEB and CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (Oct. 27, 2017) U.S. Marines disembark a landing craft air cushion to begin the Red ESG-3 staffs. Participants include Beach tactical maneuvering portion of the bilateral exercise Dawn Blitz 2017. Photo by Mass Communication combined force of C3F, ESG-3, 1st Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jailene Casso MEB, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, USS Essex (LHD 2), USS hit a target at 70 kilometers. The proof of concept with the HIMARS as a Anchorage (LPD 23), USS Rushmore (LSD 47), USS Wayne E. Meyer sea-based fires alternative afloat provides warfare commanders greater (DDG 108), and Coastal Riverine Group 1. With supporting elements, flexibility when conducting precision strikes. seven ships and 33 aircraft made the exercise possible.

To further capitalize on the HIMARS capabilities, Marines and Sailors transported the weapons system to an EAB in a hypothetical island A key focus was integration between the Navy and Marine Corps chain. There, the HIMARS could be used in a sea denial role in support to establish a powerful maritime force capable of meeting modern of naval shipping transiting a narrow strait. threats. The team examined the composite warfare construct and other command and control arrangements to promote unity of effort in The simulated strait transit allowed the strike group to practice utilizing littoral warfare. integrated blue/green force protection measures, and to practice maneuvering together though restricted waters where ships can be “The amphibious force integration we’ve seen here at Dawn Blitz and vulnerable. the experimentation and innovation that’s been conducted, further informs how we might establish sea control and power projection Throughout Dawn Blitz, the F-35B Lightning II supported operations on tomorrow’s battlefield,” said Col. Chandler Nelms, the Dawn Blitz across four of the six functions of Marine aviation: electronic warfare, amphibious force’s deputy commander, land warfare commander and aerial reconnaissance, anti-air warfare, and offensive air support. The also commanding officer of 13th MEU. F-35B was the force’s deep strike capability, and, for the first time, In scenario, Dawn Blitz began when the United Nations issued a it successfully integrated with the sea-based HIMARS during the Security Council Resolution prompting the U.S. to deploy at the request combined arms strike. of a partner nation alongside other coalition members to restore the internationally recognized borders of a fictional country. The scenario’s Navy medicine also made milestones, by establishing Role 2 surgical sequence of events was designed to provide realistic, relevant training capabilities across the amphibious force. Historically, only the largest to integrate forces in new ways, critical to maritime power projection. ship in an Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) has an embarked Fleet Surgical Team, making it the only ship with surgical capability.

As the exercise progressed, units demonstrated the ability to establish EABs on San Clemente Island and Camp Pendleton, California, through “The demand signal for mobile Role 2 care has risen over the past tactical insertion of ground forces. The scalable EABs provided warfare decade, both from the missions that are requested of the deploying ARG, commanders alternative options that enabled maneuver capabilities in and also by the nature of ARG deployments, which are increasingly the littoral environment. disaggregated in which the ships operate far from each other and therefore can’t rely on the LHD for surgical support,” said Cmdr. Robert Marines and Sailors established two EAB forward arming and refueling Staten, Officer in Charge of Fleet Surgical Team 9. points (FARP). In one scenario the FARP serviced both Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, in the other, the FARP provided the commanders The addition of Role 2 coverage on each of the two smaller ships provided a secure location to service aircraft supporting operations in the deep an innovative capability along with the opportunity to experiment fight. bringing that echelon of care ashore following an amphibious assault.

Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) Pacific forces from The culminating training event of Dawn Blitz occurred Oct. 27, when the Coastal Riverine Force, Seabees and Explosive Ordnance Disposal U.S. Navy’s Assault Craft Unit 5, Beach Master Unit 1, U.S. Marine participated on San Clemente Island to augment EAB operations as Corps’ 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, and the Japan Ground Self an adaptive force package (AFP). The NECC forces conducted events Defense Force infantry soldiers led an assault on Camp Pendleton’s Red in support of live airfield damage repair (ADR), Expeditionary Mine Beach. Eighteen amphibious assault vehicles and six landing crafts, Countermeasures (ExMCM) and the amphibious assault landing. air cushion landed on the beach for additional training ashore, and to establish the final EAB. For the first time, the blue-green team validated that they could launch a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) from Navy ship and

EXercise

DAWN BLITZ

Dawn Blitz is a scenario-driven exercise designed to train and integrate Navy and Marine Corps units by providing a robust training environment where forces plan and execute an amphibious assault, engage in live-fire events, and establish expeditionary advanced bases in a land and maritime threat environment to improve naval amphibious core competencies.

Sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One train to use a chart and compass to plot their location aboard an 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boat during Exercise Dawn Blitz Oct. 24, 2017. photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Stacy D. Laseter

Operations Specialist 2nd Class Cory Smith holds a flashlight while Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Samuél Leon, both assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One, removes a .50 caliber machine gun from an 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boat following night operations during Exercise Dawn Blitz Oct 24,2017. Photo by MC2 Charles Oki

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One divers retrieve a mine during exercise Dawn Blitz, Oct. 24, 2017 (U.S. Navy Combat Camera photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cory Asato)

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 3rd Class Carolyn Willeford from Easton, Pennsylvania, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One, inspects unexploded ordnance during exercise Dawn Blitz Oct 23, 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Cory Asato

Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Samuél Leon, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One, drives an 11-meter rigid hull inflatable boat during Exercise Dawn Blitz Oct 24, 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Stacy D. Laseter

15

U.S., Sri Lanka Partner for First Cooperation Story by Lt. Amy Forsythe

T

RINCOMALEE, Sri Lanka - U.S. and Sri Lankan maritime forces worked together for the first–ever Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise with the arrival of U.S. Navy elements in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, Oct. 1, 2017.

CARAT Sri Lanka 2017 is part of a series of bilateral CARAT military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces Navy Ens. Emily Wolff, receives a gift as part of the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Thissa School Classroom constructed by Naval of Bangladesh, Brunei, Indonesia, Mobile Construction Battalion Three during the first-ever bilateral Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training exercise at the Naval Base in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, Oct. 5, 2017. Photo by Information Systems Technician 1st Class Gregory L. Parker Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Thailand. The focus of CARAT is developing U.S. Navy assets that participated in CARAT Sri Lanka 2017 maritime security capabilities and increasing interoperability include Commander, Task Group 75.5, Coastal Riverine Group among participants. Skill areas exercised during the CARAT 1, Underwater Construction Team 2 and U.S. Marines with Fleet include small boat operations, evidence collection, diving Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific. procedures and anti-terrorism security.

“The U.S. Navy is pleased to add Sri Lanka to our list of CARAT partners in 2017 as part of our larger efforts to expand both bilateral and multilateral maritime security engagement across the Indo-Asia-Pacific region,” said Commodore Robert Baughman, Commander, Task Force-75.

CARAT is entering its 23rd year and Sri Lanka is among the newest CARAT partner nations, demonstrating that our shared common goals and partnership during various partnered training is a valuable way to build lasting relationships. Training exchanges were conducted on the Sri Lankan Navy base in Trincomalee from Oct. 2-6, 2017.

The week-long exercise was designed to enhance maritime security skills and operations cohesiveness among participating forces. It also focused on relationship building between military participants through sports and social events.

16

NMCB 4 Assumes Charge of Pacific Region

by Chief Petty Officer Rosalie Chang

U

.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 assumed charge of Western Pacific Naval Construction Force operations during a Relief in Place/ Transfer of Authority ceremony on Camp Shields in Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 14.

NMCB 4 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. James Cho received authority of Camp Shields from NMCB 3 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Joseph Harder.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 Command Officer, Cmdr. James Cho (right) receives authority of Camp Shields in Okinawa, Japan from NMCB 3 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Joseph Harder (left) during a Relief in Place/Transfer of Authority ceremony in Okinawa, Japan. Photo by MCC Rosalie Chang

“The past few weeks have been a reminder that it’s the people of the organization that drive success,” said Cho. “The turnover between both battalions highlighted this further, reflecting a unified team, one naval construction force, working closely together, displaying the utmost professionalism, level of respect and constant demonstration of the ‘Can Do’ spirit.”

In his speech, the guest speaker of the ceremony, Commodore, 30th Naval Construction Regiment, Capt.

Jeffrey Kilian, highlighted NMCB 3’s accomplishments during their deployment and welcomed NMCB 4 to the area of responsibility.

“The support you provided to the combatant commanders and various task forces has been critical and supports their ability to execute time critical mission objectives,” said Kilian. “These commanders rely on the Seabees for your flexibility, technical competence and the famous “Can Do” initiative. I want both battalions to know that your work directly contributes to the defense of our nation and our allies in the region.”

A week-long inspection and review was conducted on all equipment, supplies, projects, facilities and civil engineering support equipment (CESE), prior to the ceremony.

When a battalion deploys, they do not travel with equipment.

Instead, all construction equipment and supplies are already at the deployment sites. A detailed turnover must be completed before the incoming battalion begins work.

CESE, including equipment such as cranes and backhoes, undergoes a more thorough inspection, in a process called the Battalion Equipment Evaluation Program (BEEP). BEEP is designed to transfer all knowledge of CESE maintenance operations and techniques to the relieving battalion.

valued at seven million dollars in 20 locations across 10 countries; and they expended thousands of man-hours maintaining the largest table of allowance in the Naval Expeditionary Force.

“You have made a difference in the Pacific, and you have added your own personal chapter in the legacy of NMCB 3,” said Harder. “You embraced my guidance and orders and you have exceeded my expectations.”

Cho stated NMCB 4 stands ready to defend whenever and wherever they are needed.

“The current security environment is faster paced, more complex and increasingly competitive.” said Cho. “I am humbled and honored to be serving with you. You have inspired me and led throughout our homeport, going above and beyond, to ensure that we set the proper conditions, take care of our Seabees and make a difference during this deployment. We are ready.”

NMCB 4 is the forward deployed pacific NMCB ready to support Major Combat Operations and Humanitarian Assistance/ Disaster Relief operations and to provide general engineering and civil support to Navy, Marine Corps and joint operational forces. Homeported out of Port Hueneme, Calif., NMCB 4 has 10 detachment sites deployed throughout the United States and Pacific area of operations, including Diego Garcia, Guam, Japan, Philippines, Republic of Korea and Timor Leste.

For more news from NMCB 4, visit www.public.navy.mil/ necc/1ncd/Pages/NMCB4 or follow NMCB 4 on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NMCB4

NMCB 3 is redeploying with a comprehensive list of accomplishments including the completion of 33 projects, 17

Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command Recognizes 10th Anniversary

By Chief Cryptologic Technician Collection Specialist James Prendergast

Virginia Beach -- Sailors from the

Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command (NEIC) took pause from their normal routine Oct. 5 to celebrate the command's 10th anniversary.

Established Oct. 4, 2007, the command has grown in scope and responsibility over its 10-year history. Command members, past and present, were on hand for the Navy Ceremonial Guard members present Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command’s Commanding Officer, event during which the command’s Cdr. Danielle Lukich, the national ensign during the command’s 10- year anniversary commemoration on Oct. 4, 2017.. Photo by Chief Cryptologic Technician Collection Specialist James Prendergast significant accomplishments and contributions to Navy intelligence operations around the globe were recognized.

In her remarks, commanding officer, Cmdr. Danielle Lukich, focused on the historical significance of the day of NEIC’s Capt. (Ret.) Michael Murray, NEIC’s first commanding officer, establishment, both for the command and as a date in history. attended as an honored guest. During his remarks, he discussed how family and friends are the critical enablers to a successful “On October 4th, 1943, during World War II, the U.S. captured command and resilient Sailors. the Solomon Islands from the Japanese,” said Lukich, “[In 1957] Sputnik was launched by the Soviet Union, and in 1996, “I am in awe of the progression of the command from the early Intelligence Specialist Third Class Kaylee Nadeau, the youngest days working out of trailers to the impressive mission portfolio member of our command, currently deployed to Bahrain aboard that you have built and have today,” said Murray.

USS Kidd, was born.”

The highlight of the commemoration was the Navy Ceremonial Guard’s drill performance and flag folding ceremony in honor of Cmdr. John (Jack) George Graf, a Navy iIntelligence officer missing in action in Vietnam since 1969. NEIC recognized Cmdr.

Graf by presenting the command’s Sailor of the Year award in his honor.

Past and present members of NEIC also unveiled the first plaques for the “Wall of Excellence,” a command history display designed to showcase the achievements of the command’s first 10 years and future operations to come.

“Our intent is to capture our identity as a command for future generations of Sailors to share and emulate to preserve our legacy and accomplishments as a unit,” said Cmdr. Amanda Borngen, NEIC executive officer.

18

NEIC Sailors followed up the commemoration event with a dining out, a time honored military tradition. The practice was adopted by British Army and Navy units and referred to as “guest night” during colonial times, and later adopted into practice in the U.S. Navy.

Established in 2007, NEIC is the Navy’s only unit of deployable, cross-trained intelligence and cryptologic professionals with the mission to collect and fuse the disciplines of human intelligence, signals intelligence, and intelligence analysis to answer priority intelligence requirements for the fleet. Comprised of nine intelligence exploitation teams, the Sailors of NEIC deploy worldwide.

CRG 1 Holds Change of Command Ceremony From Coastal Riverine Group One Public Affairs SAN CLEMENTE ISLAND, California (NNS) -- Coastal Riverine Group (CRG) 1 held a change of command ceremony Oct. 18 on San Clemente Island.

During the ceremony, Capt. Stan Chien relieved Capt. David Miller as commanding officer of CRG 1.

“This tour has been extremely rewarding. It’s been an honor to serve the professional men and women of the Coastal Riverine Force,” said Miller. “I’m privileged to turn over the group to an outstanding leader whom I’ve known since I was an ensign. I have no doubt the force will continue to thrive under Capt. Chien’s leadership.”

Command, and Southern Command areas of responsibility.

Chien joined the Navy in 1991 following graduation from the Virginia Military Institute where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to assuming command, he served as the deputy commodore of CRG 1.

Coastal Riverine Force (CRF) operates in harbors, rivers, bays, across the littorals and ashore. The primary mission of CRF is to conduct maritime security operations across all phases of military operations by defending high value assets, critical maritime infrastructure, ports and harbors both inland and on coastal waterways against enemies and when commanded conduct offensive combat operations.

Miller, a native of Blue Earth, Minnesota, was commissioned in June 1991 at the University of Minnesota under the Naval ROTC program and received a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.

Under Miller’s leadership, CRG 1 deployed three Coastal Riverine Squadrons (and numerous detachment-level missions) to the U.S. Central Command, European Command, Pacific Command, Africa

Necc’s Civilian

o f

Mary Morris

t h e

VIRGINIA

mo nth

Systems Security Management is second to none and she is engaged in every area of IA. She is an expert in Cyber Security and her work in updating the Cyber Security Work Force Requirements for all NECC units was instrumental, benefitting the FORCE for both the long term development of requirements and correcting shortfalls in Mary Morris is assigned to N6 as the near future. the Force Information Assurance “Ms. Morris provides leadership by taking initiative and Manager. consistently going the extra mile,” said Nancy Harned, Morris’ strong leadership and ever- Executive Director, NECC. “Mary translated warfighter growing depth of expertise in Information Assurance (IA), cyber requirements into operational impacts with actionable Cyber Security Work Force Issues and Expeditionary Cyber solutions, ensuring projects are developed, tracked, and Security Inspections have been invaluable to the entire Navy completed the right way, ahead of schedule.”

BEACH, Va. –Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) announced the selection of its October Civilian of the Month, Oct 2.

Expeditionary Combat Enterprise.

Ms. Morris balances multiple competing priorities as the Force Information Assurance Manager. As part of NECC’s Cyber Security Inspection team, her knowledge of Information

For More content F o l low

u s

on

s oci al

/NavyExpeditionaryCombatCommand

@NECC_

med i a