Singapore
Sri Lanka
Mumbai
Goa
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Table of Contents Captain & Chaplain 2 Singapore Arrival 3 Sri Lanka Arrival 4 Engagements in Sri Lanka 5-6 Change of Command 7-8 India 9-10
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Commanding Officer Matt Paradise co@lcc19.navy.mil
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER MCC(SW/EXW/FMF/SCW) Ja’lon Rhinehart
Executive Officer Jason Eckhardt
LEAD DESIGNER MC3(SW) Jordan KirkJohnson
xo@lcc19.navy.mil
Command Master Chief Charles Ziervogel cmc@lcc19.navy.mil
BLR Ombudsman Samantha Knepper
samantha.knepper@lcc19.navy.mil
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Media Services Team
BLR Ombudsman Donesha Scott
donesha.scott@lcc19.navy.mil
MEDIA TEAM MC1(SW/AW) Mike Story MC3(SW) Jacob Waldrop MC3(SW) Liz Dunagan MC3(SW) Kevin Flinn MC3 Don Patton MCSN(SW)Timothy Hale Blue Ridge Magazine is an authorized publication for Sailors aboard USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). Contents herein are not the views of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, Department of Defense, Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of USS Blue Ridge. All news, photos and information for publication in Blue Ridge Magazine must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer. Produced by Blue Ridge Media Services | Ext. 4154
Captain’s Corner Blue Ridge Family and Friends, Greetings from Blue Ridge. Captain Matt Paradise here, the new Skipper, and I’ve been aboard for a little over a month now. As an F/A-18 pilot, all my significant underway time has been on an aircraft carrier and I am very much enjoying the myriad of firsts on Blue Ridge, not just for me, but more importantly, for your Sailors. Representing the first visit by a U.S. vessel in almost a decade, our visit to Sri Lanka was a great success. Though we got whipped in a couple of friendly intra-Navy games, soccer and cricket, our interactions and engagements with our Naval partners were quite successful. We were greeted by a pretty cool band on the pier, their President did us the honor of spending some time onboard and we ended the port visit by putting to sea together with our Sri Lankan Navy friends, and practiced standard maneuvers that will undoubtedly become the building block for further cooperation in the months to come. In India, we maintained the incredibly high standard that we set for ourselves this patrol season. Through highly successful engagements in Mumbai and Goa, no matter the challenges, we are finding the correct solutions and doing so with a smile. Every day your Sailors are proving why we are ‘The Finest in the Fleet’. They volunteer their time and efforts no matter where we go, to make a difference in the communities we visit. From sports games and teaching painting and rebuilding, they are representing themselves as the ambassadors. I am honored to be here and to have the opportunity to lead such great Sailors and I’m looking forward to meeting you all this summer. Best Regards, Captain Matt Paradise
As Chaplains, I am rooted in the sacred trust between you and I. I am bound by complete, 100% confidentiality. What you say to me in confidence stays between you and me, unless you decide differently. You hold the key to who hears your story. It is very important that you speak to a person whom you can trust because all of us as human beings would like to be accepted and heard by other people. As you know, all Sailors are bound by Navy policies and the UCMJ. It may be difficult to share their struggles and problems with their chain of command and shipmates. As a Chaplain, I will not be judgmental to any Sailors in a counseling setting. I am here to provide our Sailors a safe place to talk without fear of judgment or reprisal. I am also not compelled by our command to disclose what you share in confidence. Any issues that you want to talk about will be guarded and protected by the confidentiality privilege including: suicide ideation, homicide ideation and sexual assault. The confidential relationship extends to written communication such as letters, and emails and beyond the death of the individual making the disclosure. All counseling records are considered confidential and will be safe guarded and then destroyed when no longer needed. As a Chaplain, I am committed to caring for all Sailors, Marines and their families with dignity, respect and compassion. “By patient, sympathetic labors with the crew, day in, day out and through many a night, every chaplain I know contributed immeasurably to the moral courage of our fighting men; none of this appears in statistics. Most of it necessarily secret between pastor and confidant. It is for that toil, in the cause both of God and country, that I honor the chaplain most.” – Fleet Admiral Chester A. Nimitz, USN
Chaplain’s Message
By: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jordan KirkJohnsonn
SINGAPORE — The U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Singapore for a regularly scheduled port visit, March 13, strengthening multilateral relationships in the region. The Blue Ridge team consists of more than 900 members, including embarked 7th Fleet staff, Marines from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) and the “Golden Falcons” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12. Sailors will participate in four different community service projects, conduct embassy security training and take the time to experience the local culture and food during the visit. “It’s important for our Sailors to participate in community projects, not only because it allows them to experience a little bit of the culture, but it also provides them with a way to give back,” said Blue Ridge Command Master Chief, Charles F. Ziervogel. “Volunteering provides the best way to get to know people. If you really want to get to know someone, you work beside them.” FASTPAC Marines will conduct an engagement with the U.S. Embassy Singapore Department of State Security, focusing on improving embassy reinforcement plans. Additionally, FASTPAC will provide combat life saver, rifle and pistol marksmanship training. “By explaining and demonstrating FASTPAC’s capabilities, we are reminding those responsible for the security of our diplomatic posts throughout the 7th Fleet area of operations that FASTPAC is prepared to effectively react to a wide array of situations if called upon,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Buch. “Joint training
exercises provide us with an opportunity to build relationships and enhance our ability to effectively work together.” During downtime in port, some Sailors will also take advantage of the opportunity to participate in Home Hospitality, a program hosted by the American Association of Singapore. This program offers various forms of hospitality, where local families volunteer to provide a home cooked meal, arrange a poolside party or take Sailors on a tour of Singapore. “The Home Hospitality program is culturally beneficial to both the Sailors and the families hosting them,” said Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Brian Jewell, Blue Ridge’s community service coordinator. “It gives Sailors the opportunity to experience local customs and provides host families with an avenue to learn more about the U.S. military.” “Any effort toward the goal of forging a stronger relationship, even through small interactions and engagements, better ensures the safety and security in the 7th Fleet area of operations,” said Ziervogel. “The COMSERV’s and foreign engagements are crucial to building relationships, but our presence shows that we care about these countries and that we are there to assist when necessary.” Blue Ridge has been forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for 36 years. As the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, Blue Ridge is committed to strengthening and fostering relationships within the Indo-Asia Pacific region.
Blue Ridge Arrives in Sri Lanka, Forging New Ties
By: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin A. Flinnn COLUMBO, Sri Lanka — U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and the embarked 7th Fleet staff arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka for a port visit March 26. Blue Ridge will host a series of engagements with Sri Lankan counterparts, including crew serve weapons and damage control briefings, junior officer and petty officer exchanges, a military joint band performance, combat lifesaver (CLS) and advanced urban combat (AUC) training by Marines from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) as well as military-to-military sporting events during the port visit. “Our crew onboard Blue Ridge, coupled with the 7th Fleet team, are uniquely poised to get this relationship moving in the right direction and being very positive about it,” said Capt. Kyle P. Higgins, Blue Ridge commanding officer. “I’m excited for this engagement and consider it relatively historic in the very large, strategic scheme of the Navy.” During the visit, Blue Ridge and 7th Fleet Sailors will mark this engagement through military-to-military sporting events, including baseball, basketball, cricket, soccer and volleyball games, giving servicemembers from both countries an opportunity to practice team building by working together. The games will take place every day during the visit. “When individuals from different places come together with the same outlook, it creates a team working toward a goal,” said Ship’s Serviceman 2nd Class Jaquan Hartford, Blue Ridge’s sports coordinator. “And, it can create something life-changing.” FASTPAC will also be conducting a Unites States Embassy (USEMB) engagement via USEMB Colombo, where they will demonstrate their capabilities and provide training to the Sri Lankan Marines from Marine Embassy Guard in CLS and AUC training. “It’s a great opportunity for our Marines to work with and interact with the Sri Lankan Marines,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Buch, FASTPAC Operations Chief. “It’s going to allow us to demonstrate and share some of our tactics.” Junior officers and petty officers also plan to participate in a cultural exchange with their Sri Lankan counterparts.
“It is an opportunity for us to open communication,” said Lt. Daniel Kohlbeck, Blue Ridge operations officer. “With that, it’s a chance to exchange ideas, conversation and culture, allowing interaction with someone from a different place, a different navy and a different way of seeing things.” The 7th Fleet Band “Pacific Ambassadors” will be performing a joint concert with the Sri Lanka Army, Air Force and Navy Bands. “We are vey excited to be able to perform with our military musical counterparts during our visit to Sri Lanka,” said Chief Musician Jose Acosta, U.S. 7th Fleet Band Leading Chief Petty Officer. “It will be a wonderful performance and we hope that, through our music, we will further strengthen our relationships and friendship with Sri Lanka.” This port visit will mark the last port where Blue Ridge is under the command of Higgins. Higgins will be relieved during a change of command ceremony by Capt. Matthew Paradise March 29. Over 29 years ago, Higgins was scheduled for a port visit in Sri Lanka that ended up being cancelled. “I’ve been waiting over 29 years to come to this country and I couldn’t think of a better time for it,” said Higgins. “For me, it would be a privilege and an honor to be in someone else’s country, in their port facility, and have their military represented in an official American naval ceremony. I would be deeply honored for that opportunity.” “There is no bittersweet,” Higgins later continued. “Departing this ship will not be easy for me. I’ve grown some deep roots here. I absolutely love what I do every day. And, I couldn’t be more honored to represent such a fine group of young men and women that make up the Blue Ridge and 7th Fleet team. “It has been my privilege to be at the helm and to lead this unbelievable group of Sailors. It has, at times, been truly flattering and humbling.” Blue Ridge has been forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for 36 years. As the flagship for 7th Fleet, Blue Ridge is vital in maintaining partnerships in the 7th Fleet area of operations.
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RATMALANA, Sri Lanka — Sailors from the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked 7th Fleet staff participated in a community service project (COMSERV) at an orphanage ran by Community Concern Society, in Ratmalana March 28 and 30. During the event, Sailors helped clean up the facility and repurpose desks and benches for the children to use. They also painted several areas of the orphanage, including a nursery and playground. “This COMSERV was a different experience for me,” said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class William Spooney. “It was more than just talking and playing with children. We were getting dirty and sweaty just to make an impact, not only on the facility, but the local community.” Last time the Blue Ridge made a port visit to Sri Lanka was in 2005. “I loved being in Sri Lanka and experiencing the way of life, so helping out in such a rich culture was great,” said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Alfred Dateng. “I felt very fortunate to be apart of the return to Sri Lanka, it’s been over 10 years and it’s exciting to be apart of that history, while doing something positive for the community as well.” Several staff members from the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka were also present; some, having been volunteers with Community Concern Society since the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.
E N G A G E ME N T S “When the tsunami first hit, the area was in shambles,” said Lisa Hekle, Regional Security Coordinator for the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. “I was here when Community Concern Society was just starting and I recently came back three years ago and was glad to see the growth that’s come from this organization.” Community Concern Society is a nonprofit organization with goals to express compassion for the poor by helping the oppressed and needy. “Community Concern is the only organization in Sri Lanka of its kind, which gives you the opportunity to help in any way possible,” said Rosa Gunawardena, Operations Manager at Community Concern Society. “We strive to meet every need in this community and understand the importance of family, education, rehabilitation, independence, support and love.” The Sailors repurposed 15 desks and 14 benches, and painted five multipurpose rooms and a playground. “I am so grateful for the presence of the U.S. Navy here in Sri Lanka,” said Lisa Hess, executive assistance to the deputy ambassador at the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. “This shows that the United States is willing to help out and make a difference across the world.” “It means a lot to me, but I’m positive that the staff and children at this facility are more than grateful for the contribution and efforts put in here.”
By: Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Timothy Hale
Blue Ridge Changes Command in Sri Lanka COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — Capt. Matthew Paradise relieved Capt. Kyle P. Higgins as commanding officer USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) during a change of command ceremony March 29. Blue Ridge is currently on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of operations, strengthening and fostering relationships in the Indo-Asia Pacific region. Higgins served as commanding officer for over 14 months, leading the ship and crew through two patrol cycles, one including the rescue of five stranded Filipino fisherman and several inspections and awards with the ship being awarded the Battle “E” Efficiency Award for the second year in a row. “It is obvious that I’m stepping into a terrific command,” said Paradise, Blue Ridge commanding officer. “That is a true testament to the men and women of Blue Ridge, but it’s also a testament to its commanding officer. Thank you for leaving me such a great legacy. I’ll make you proud and build on it.” “His commitment to the mission and the combat readiness of Blue Ridge has been evident as the ship has been
By: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin A. Flinn
performing magnificent in every occasion,” said Rear Adm. John Nowell, Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, guest speaker at the ceremony. “In places like the People’s Republic of China, the Philippines, or here in Sri Lanka, Blue Ridge has served as host to a multitude of foreign dignitaries, diplomats, high-ranking government and military officials. These engagements are critical as we look at an uncertain and volatile world, one where partnerships really matter.” Paradise assumes command as the 28th commanding officer of the Blue Ridge since the ship’s commissioning November 14, 1970. Blue Ridge held a reception on the main deck immediately following the ceremony to celebrate and bid farewell to Higgins. “This ship certainly reinvigorated me,” said Higgins. “And, I can’t thank everyone on the Blue Ridge and 7th Fleet team enough for what they’ve done for the ship. She is 46-yearsyoung and she’s got 30 more left in her because of the work that is put into her every single day.”
M U M B A I
MUMBAI, India -- U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Mumbai, India for a regularly scheduled port visit to promote friendships and strengthen ties with our allies April 3. The Blue Ridge team consists of more than 900 members, including embarked 7th Fleet staff, Marines from Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) and the “Golden Falcons” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12. This port visit will be Blue Ridge’s first visit to India in 11 years. “We are strengthening the ties with countries where the United States already has a presence and building new ones in places we have yet to go in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility,” said Command Master Chief Charles Ziervogel. “This visit is particularly important as India is one of our allies with common interests in maintaining the freedom of the seas from those who seek to benefit from a reduced U.S. Navy presence and limit or control trade
GOA, India -- U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Goa, India for a regularly scheduled port visit, promoting friendships and engagements with theater partners in the region April 8. The Blue Ridge team consisting of more than 900 members, including embarked 7th Fleet staff, Marines from Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) and the “Golden Falcons” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 is currently on patrol within the 7th Fleet area of operations, strengthening and fostering relationships in the Indo-Asia- Pacific. “After completing a highly successful port visit in Mumbai, India, the objective of this next visit is to further engage and to continue to strengthen our relationships with our Indian Navy counterparts and local authorities,” said Lt. Daniel Kohlbeck, Blue Ridge’s operations officer. “Anytime we can take advantage of the opportunity to strengthen friendships with a country that shares the same democrat-
and resources.” During the ship’s visit, Sailors and Marines will have the opportunity to interact with the local community through community service events, such as working with Corp India, an organization that runs shelters, daycare centers and family counseling centers, and the Organization for Social Change, Awareness, and Responsibility (OSCAR) Foundation, which helps teach children the value of education through sports. “I’m looking forward to experiencing a new culture and doing my part to strengthen ties with our allies,” said Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Brian Jewel. “We have some great community service projects lined up that I’m excited to be a part of.” “India is a growing naval power with the ability to project an allied presence into areas of concerns,” said Ziervogel. “This visit will definitely help strengthen our ties with them and renew our commitments and common interests.” By: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob Waldrop
ic ideals as the U.S., is a step in the right direction.” During the ship’s visit, Sailors and Marines will volunteer their time in the local community with community service events, like working with Harama School, an organization that teaches under privileged children hygiene and provides basic primary education and playing sports with students at Smt. Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts and Science. Blue Ridge last made a visit to Goa in February 2005, marking the 7th Fleet flagship’s first visit to the state. “Having had the chance to sail with the Indian Navy some years ago by way of various exercises, I remain amazed at the professionalism of their Navy,” continued Kohlbeck. “We are excited about these engagements. Promoting interoperability and cooperation between out two countries is huge, as we both work to protect the shared ideals we hold dear.”
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By: Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Liz Dunagan
INDIA