USS Enterprise (CVN 65)
The Shuttle Newsletter Edition
“We are Legend”
April 16, 2012 Issue
Re-stow All Gear
Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob D. Galito
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – Sailors assigned to repair lockers aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) anticipate the blaring sound of the boatswain’s whistle over the 1MC announcing system as a ship-wide general quarters (GQ) firefighting drill nears its end. Following the whistle, the drill may be over, but the work is not. As most participants return to their respective work centers, other Sailors remain by the repair lockers to restow the firefighting equipment (FFE). “After GQ, it is our job to make sure that all lockers are properly restored and the equipment is ready,” said Damage Controlman 2nd Class Benjamin Coates. Safety is always a concern during all ship-board training evolutions. It is imperative that equipment be properly checked and stored after each drill so that it is easily accessible for its next use. Machinist’s Mate Fireman Willie Cao checks the flashlights on firefighting helmets in his repair “It is important to train all Sailors locker during a general quarters training exercise aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN aboard about proper stowage to ensure 65). (Photo by MC3 Scott Pittman) that the necessary equipment is readily “Training Sailors aboard about proper maintenance and available for quick access in the event of an emergency and stowage ensures that the necessary gear is equipped to repair also to avoid injuries,” said Navy Counselor 1st Class Linda damage, combat fires and flooding as efficiently as possible,” Gilmore, an assistant locker leader and command career said Gilmore counselor. Both proper maintenance and stowage are key aspects of the Proper training for Damage Controlmen (DC) and the training involved for shipboard firefighting. Sailors assigned to repair lockers includes training on the “Learning about proper stowage and maintenance directly proper methods for storing equipment and is necessary to impacts our effectiveness in GQ by knowing how to stow our ensure the crew is prepared and qualified to handle any priority items and which items are needed before an actual emergency. emergency,” said Gilmore. Although Damage Controlmen are knowledgeable and With Sailors aboard equipped with the knowledge of capable leaders during firefighting drills, it would require an Damage Controlmen, proper maintenance is performed and all-hands effort to successfully fight a real fire. Enterprise is at the ready and prepared to fight any shipboard “It’s important for everyone to be trained and qualified so fire emergency. we can effectively combat any casualty that comes our way,” “It is important for everyone to make sure all equipment is said Coates. restowed the same way it was found,” said Coates. “It is also In addition to stowage, training all hands about proper important for everyone to be trained and qualified so we can maintenance is vital for shipboard firefighting. effectively combat any casualty that comes our way.”