WASHINGTON SURVEYOR THE
Dec. 17, 2018
By MC3 Michael Botts
A DAY WHICH WILL LIVE IN INFAMY GW HOSTS PEARL HARBOR CEREMONY
By MC3 Jamin Gordon
By MCSR Steven Young
LOOKING BACK
A FIRST FOR THE 1ST CLASSES
2018 YEAR IN REVIEW
GW HOSTS 1ST CLASS BALL
By MC3 Zack Thomas
By MC3 Julie Vujevich
MOVING FORWARD, MOVING UP
C.A.N.E.S.
GW’S NEWEST PETTY OFFICERS
GW SAILORS BUILD NEW SHIP NETWORK
On the cover: Information Systems Technician Seaman Justice Torres, a Sailor aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), checks wiring in a Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) server box in a CANES lab at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR). (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Julie Vujevich)
washington surveyor Commanding Officer
SAILOR in the SPOTLIGHT CS2 Madeline Roberts
AOAN Marcus Pryor
EMN2 Joel Baker
ABHAN Shayla Reynolds
Capt. Daryle Cardone
MMN2 Leo Speedy
SHSN Jacob Green
Command Master Chief
ABE3 Jacob Fraley
CS3 Giszel Villarreal
MMN3 John Gress
AS3 Duncan Rabey
MA3 Justin King
AOAN Cierra Jones
ETN2 Joycelin Ward
AT2 Allison Valdez
EN2 Kellar Smith
CS3 Shaquille Roberts
Capt. Glenn Jamison
Executive Officer
CMDCM Maurice Coffey
Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Stephanie Turo
Deputy Public Affairs Officer Lt. Tyler Barker
Departmental LCPO
FC3 Jadon Livingston
MCCS Reginald Buggs
Divisional LCPO MCC Mary Popejoy
Editors
MC3 Julie Vujevich MC3 Zack Thomas MCSA Jack Lepien
Content
MC1 Gary Johnson MC2 Mandi Washington MC3 Michael Botts MC3 Carter Denton MC3 Jamin Gordon MC3 Trey Hutcheson MCSN Tatyana Freeman MCSA Samuel Petermann MCSR Steven Young
The Washington Surveyor is an authorized publication for Sailors serving aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). Contents herein are not the visions of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of USS George Washington. All news releases, photos or information for publication in The Washington Surveyor must be submitted to the Public Affairs Officer.
YN3 Anita Ahiabu “If fear is cultivated, it will become stronger; if faith is cultivated, it will achieve mastery�
- John Paul Jones
YN3 Anita Ahiabu, from Staten Island, New York, loves giving back to the community. She makes care packages and sends them to Ghana, where she was born and lived until she was 15. She loves being a yeoman so she can help Sailors with administrative issues like advancement. Outside of the Navy, she owns a cosmetics business, which she says keeps her on her toes and improves her creativity.
Consolidated Aloat Networks and Enterprise Services
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s the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) makes progress in its refueling complex overhaul (RCOH), many Sailors contribute to the ship’s technological advances and upgrades. Information systems technicians (IT) from George Washington’s combat systems department are in the process of building the fleet’s newest and most advanced Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise
Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Kyle Fitzpatrick, a Sailor aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), troubleshoots printers in a Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) lab at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR). (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Julie Vujevich)
Services (CANES) that is slated to be installed aboard the ship as early as April 2019. CANES is a shipboard tactical network that provides ships with services including improved information assurance, firewall and intrusion detection, and greater flexibility. It will enable an adaptable information technology platform to meet requirements for current operating systems and easy upgrades when they become available. “CANES is the way of the future,”
Information Systems Technician Seaman Jacob Grella, a Sailor aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), checks wiring in a Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) server box in a CANES lab at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR). (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Julie Vujevich)
said Chief Warrant Officer Sean Godown, the CANES division officer aboard George Washington. “I like the unique opportunity we’ve been given right now with [Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center] (SPAWARSYSCEN) Atlantic where [George Washington] gets to send some of the best and brightest our Navy has to offer over to the CANES lab. Our folks are dedicated, and have been since they came here in August. The opportunity they have here is unique. Nothing they’ve learned is taught in any schoolhouse or any Navy Knowledge Online course.” CANES replaces and combines the functions of five legacy command, control, communications, computer, and intelligence (C4I) systems with a single integrated software-based platform. The CANES platform combines systems such as the Integrated Shipboard Network System (ISNS), Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Networks, and Combined Enterprise Regional Information Exchange System Maritime (CENTRIXS-M). Although it is a lot of technical and difficult work, Sailors working
on the team are able to gain valuable experience working in their rate, something that some Sailors in RCOH may not get the chance to do. “My favorite part is really getting hands-on experience,” said Information Systems Technician Seaman Jacob Grella, a member of the CANES division. “It makes me feel like I’m utilizing a lot of my training from my rate. Sometimes on the ship you don’t really get the best understanding of what it’s really like, but setting up an entire network really makes me feel like a real IT.” While gaining in-rate knowledge, the Sailors on the CANES team will also become the CANES subject matter experts on George Washington. Due to their training and installation experience, they will have the tools necessary to maintain the CANES network, and will be able to troubleshoot and repair as necessary. “The level of involvement for George Washington has not been seen across other platforms,” said Godown. “We really took the time with this because we want to take ownership of our system. It’s very important to us that we know the
Information Systems Technician Seaman Justice Torres, a Sailor aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), opens boxes to set aside computers yet to be provisioned in a Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) lab at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR). (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Julie Vujevich)
intricacies of the system. When problems do arise, we will have first-hand knowledge of how to start troubleshooting from a critical standpoint.” According to SPAWAR, CANES will take advantage of the new business model of open architecture, Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), and rapid commercial offthe-ship (COTS) insertion to bring fiscal savings to the Navy and operational agility to the warfighter.
“The use of COTS enables the military to leverage technological advances, cost savings, and quick procurement to meet the demands of today’s warfighters,” said Godown.” The first CANES installation took place aboard the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) in November 2013. The CANES program is scheduled to be installed on more than 190 ships, submarines, and maritime operation centers by 2023.
The Consolidated Afloat Networks and Enterprise Services (CANES) team poses for a group photo in the CANES lab at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR). (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Julie Vujevich)
Moving Forward, Moving Up
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Photos of the Year
or many Sailors, earning a new rank is the culmination of many factors such as scoring well on the exam, earning high evaluation marks, and gaining support from the chain of command. For some, it is the first rung on the ladder of leadership; for others it signifies embracing new responsibilities. On Dec. 10, 2018, the Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) advanced 187 Sailors to the ranks of first, second, and third class petty officer. “Ceremonies like this recharge my Navy batteries and make me proud to be the command master chief for this command,” said Command Master Chief Maurice Coffey. “The Sailors that advanced balanced work life during the uniqueness of [refueling complex overhaul], family life, and studying to achievement this milestone. Your appointment carries with it the obligation that you exercise increased authority and willingly accept greater responsibility.”
By MC3 Zack Thomas By advancing to the next paygrade, Sailors will take on new responsibilities and opportunities to better themselves. “I think that with rank comes new responsibility and experience that I will have to adjust to,” said Yeoman 3rd Class David Hokamp. “As a third class I will have to prove myself more than before, and look for new opportunities to serve the Navy and my fellow Sailors.” While Hokamp takes on the mantle of a new third class and the expectations that come with it, other petty officers are accomplishing their goals and expanding the responsibility they already had. “It means a lot to make first class,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Ryan Hernandez. “Coming to your first sea duty and setting a goal like getting first class can seem like it is out of reach, and it’s an honor to put it on because I never thought I would. When the results came out it was really touching to me because I was with my daughter, and gave her a kiss, then I thanked everyone who
Newly advanced Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) watch the frocking ceremony at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton, Virginia. George Washington is undergoing refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipyard. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSA Samuel Pederson)
Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Richard Robles, a Sailor assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), poses for a photo during an advancement ceremony at the Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton, Virginia. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSA Samuel Pederson)
got me to this point.” While putting on first class was a goal for Hernandez, he isn’t stopping there. “Now I am reaching for my ultimate goal of becoming a limited duty officer, and to do that I am trying to get every qualification I can as a first class,” said Hernandez. “I want to show my command and the Sailors I am responsible for what I can do as a first class.” No matter if a Sailor has just become a third class or a first class, they have stepped into a new role and should continue to strive to improve. “Occupying now a position of greater authority, you must strive with a renewed dedication toward the valued ideal of service with honor,” said Coffey. “No other branch of service advances personnel the way the Navy does. For those that were promoted this cycle – congratulations, and for the rest of the crew – continue to work hard as well as study hard, and your time will come.”
2018 Year in Review
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here are 365 days in a year. That’s 365 chances to accomplish a goal, make changes, take chances, and live every day to its fullest potential. As we conclude the year, let’s take a look at how the Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) made the best of each day in 2018. The year got off to a great start with a visit from Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO) Adm. Bill Moran, Jan. 10. During his visit, Moran spoke with Sailors, leaving them with words of encouragement and advice. “He was very easy to talk to and very interested in what we had to ask him for the changes within the Navy,” said Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Larissa Pruitt. “It was very exciting to see that happen. One of the best pieces of advice that the VCNO gave was to stay engaged during [refueling complex overhaul].” One-on-one face time with
Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and guests dance at the George Washington birthday ball at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSA Apprentice Steven Young)
By MC3 Jamin Gordon
someone of Moran’s stature is a once-in-a-career event. It can be said that those Sailors who were privileged enough to meet him used that moment to take a chance, reach a goal, and influence change. As the year continued, the morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) committee aimed to provide various events and resources in which George Washington’s Sailors could partake. At the same time, Rosalio Nieto became the new fitness specialist, or fit boss as the crew affectionately calls him, on Jan. 16. Nieto jumped into his new role eager to begin helping Sailors accomplish their fitness goals. “My favorite part about my job is that I do not have to charge each Sailor,” said Nieto. “Coming from the private sector, I could only help individuals who paid me, but now that I am in the federal sector, I can help every Sailor. It does not matter what their issue is, or what they are trying to achieve, I am able to provide services to everyone.”
Adm. Bill Moran, the vice chief of naval operations, speaks with Sailors assigned to the Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), during a tour of George Washington at the Newport News Shipyard. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Class Jamin Gordon)
In addition to adding a new fitness specialist, MWR held a Super Bowl party and the annual command birthday ball in February. “This year’s birthday ball had a total of 1,200 ticket sales, which was a better turnout than previous years,” said Lt. j.g. Shanita Williams, the MWR officer aboard George Washington. “The best part of the event was the positive feedback and watching everyone enjoy themselves. The casino was a success, and prize giveaways were something everyone greatly enjoyed.” Another milestone event of February 2018, was a visit to the ship’s namesake’s home, Mount Vernon, Virginia. Command Master Chief Maurice Coffey and Capt. Glenn Jamison, the commanding officer aboard George Washington, participated in a wreath laying ceremony at Washington’s tomb. Jamison presided over the event as the guest speaker. “I was in awe; I could almost feel like I was a part of history just by being there,” said Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) David Hooker. “For the guests to come to the ceremony, curious and wanting to know about our ship and what it is we do in the United States Navy, was very humbling.” In April, the George Washington crew had a family fun day at a Norfolk Tides baseball game. This event allowed Sailors to take a break from the day-to-day shipyard work of refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) and spend some quality time with family and friends. May marked yet another milestone for the command. The first command
physical training (PT) session took place on the field behind Huntington Hall. “Participating in command PT has helped me to be more motivated and proactive in my physical health,” said Quartermaster Seaman Apprentice Tahina Rodriguez, a Sailor aboard George Washington. “Sometimes I may not feel like working out when I get home, but I know that I want to be able to push myself harder at the next command PT, so it helps me hold myself accountable.” As the command strived to promote good physical health through command PT, the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) team also made an effort to take care of the crew’s mental health. “ASIST is important because it gives Sailors someone to lean on,” said Culinary Specialist 3rd class Katelynn Phillips. “It is vital for those struggling to be able to talk to someone who can help them get the treatment they need.” Throughout the year, the ASIST team held and participated in awareness walks for breast cancer, AIDS, and suicide. They also handed out purple ribbons to the crew in
could only be one winner, and it was the Sailors of air department that earned the bragging rights as the George Washington Captain’s Cup champions of 2018. From distinguished visitors, frocking ceremonies, chiefs’ pinning, and sportsmanship competitions, 2018 was filled with a lot of good times and memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to say farewell to 2018, one thing that will remain the same in 2019 is the RCOH mission for the ship. The crew will continue to work hard to bring the ship back to life so she can return to active service and support the Navy’s mission. Here’s to making more memories, achieving milestones and qualifications, and making a positive impact in our community in 2019!
support of those affected by domestic violence. To bring some fun to the summer, MWR hosted a Captain’s Cup, an athletic challenge in which each department competed for bragging rights. Events included a bowling tournament, paintball, tugof-war, ultimate Frisbee, basketball, and a fitness competition. “I participated in the bowling event, and had a great time,” said Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Tony Jones, training department leading chief petty officer. “I enjoyed the time with all the Sailors involved as we showed off our GW Capt. Glenn Jamison, commanding officer aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), gives a speech as the keynote Pride.” speaker for George Washington’s 286th Birthday Ceremony at Mount In the end, there Vernon, Virginia. (U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Trey Hutcheson)
GW Hosts Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony
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he crew of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) gathered on the mess decks of the Floating Accommodation Facility (FAF) to take part in a Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony, Dec. 7. George Washington’s Heritage Committee hosted the event to not only reflect on an important day in history, but to remember the shipmates who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Heritage Committee members share the story of the events leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, allowing Sailors to have a better understanding of the attack, and why it is important for Sailors to never forget that day in history. “I learned a lot about Pearl Harbor because of this event, which I didn’t know before,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas Garcia, the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) leading petty officer assigned to the George Washington. “Out of all the events I have been to that the Heritage Committee has hosted, this by far had the biggest turnout, and was one of the most impactful for the Sailors at our command.” According to Navy History and
By MC3 Michael Botts Heritage Command, at 6:00 a.m. on Dec. 7, 1941, six Japanese carriers launched the first wave of 181 planes composed of torpedo bombers, dive bombers, horizontal bombers and fighters. The attack ended less than two hours after it began. The American forces paid a fearful price. Twenty-one ships of the U.S. Pacific Fleet were sunk or damaged. Aircraft losses were 188 destroyed and 159 damaged, the majority hit before they had a chance to take off. American dead numbered 2,403, including 68 civilians. There were 1,178 military and civilian wounded. “It is important that we remember the attacks on Pearl Harbor because it was such a significant day in our history,” said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 3rd Class Dante Pestello, a member of the George Washington Heritage Committee. “It was the United States’ real provocation to get involved in World War II, and it opened up a two-front war, which meant that the entire nation had to be a part of the war effort.” According to the history page of the U.S. Census Bureau website, the United States did recover—and quicker than Japanese Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto could have imagined.
After only six months, the U.S. carrier fleet dealt a decisive blow to Yamamoto’s navy in the June 1942 Battle of Midway, sinking four Japanese aircraft carriers. After this U.S. victory came the start of an island-hopping campaign and the eventual defeat of the Japanese Empire in August 1945. “Pearl Harbor is a reminder that we always need to be training and preparing for war,” said Pestello. “I think as the largest Navy in the world, we have a responsibility to be ready to fight wars and defeat the enemy, whether it is the tyrannical Empire of Japan or the evil Nazi Germany. This is proof that we should always be getting better as a fighting force.” Sailors interested in joining the heritage committee can contact Chief Interior Communications Electrician General Livingston, a member of the heritage committee and the command climate specialist aboard the George Washington, or attend a heritage committee meeting. Dates and times for the meetings are located on the ship’s green sheet.
A First For The 1st Classes George Washington Hosts 1st Class Petty Officer’s Ball
CVN 73 Knowledge Management Update December 2018
Vol. 2 Issue 16
By MCSR Steven Young comfortable with each other and the decisions that we’re going to be making in the future.” The idea of a first class petty officer’s ball developed from a desire to increase Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Dushah Hunter and ABH1 Rashawn Orr disc involvement jockey at the USS George Washington First Class Petty Officer Ball. within that (U.S. Navy photo by MCSR Steven Young) community. he music blared and vibrant George lights filled the air in the Washington’s first class mess took ballroom as Sailors donning charge of this task, and set a goal elaborate evening gowns, dress suits, to bring together first class petty and decorative masquerade masks officers from all over the area. came together at the Hampton Roads “We wanted to do something fun Convention Center on the evening of that had never been done before,” Nov. 30. said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate The First Class Petty Officer (Handling) 1st Class Rashawn Association (FCPOA) of the Orr, George Washington’s training Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS department leading petty officer and George Washington (CVN 73) was FCPOA president. “Initially, we set responsible for the glitz and glam, out to get some participation within hosting the inaugural First Class the first class mess. That kind of Petty Officer’s Ball, which was evolved into ‘well, how many people open to commands from around the can we reach with this?’ When we Hampton Roads area. first brought it up to first classes “This was all about camaraderie,” from other commands, they thought said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate it was a joke. They thought that there (Handling) 1st Class Jade Cobb, was no way that we could pull off George Washington’s V-3 division something this massive. When they leading petty officer. “We just got realized that we were serious, and a new [FCPOA] cabinet back in that this was actually happening, August, so we wanted to create they asked us to come to their some camaraderie among the commands and sell tickets.” current first class mess. We feel The presence of Sailors from that it’s important to get everyone various commands created a diverse
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environment. This allowed Sailors who may have never met to network and build lasting relationships. “We spread the news of the ball mainly by word of mouth,” said Cobb. “I just came from [Transient Personnel Unit] over in Norfolk, so I reached out to the FCPOA president over there. There are first classes here on the Washington that know other first classes at different commands, so it was literally the [George Washington] first classes reaching out to other first classes that we know. We emailed them the flyers with all of the information and became their point of contact for sending invites and selling tickets. We decided to open it up to all first classes, so there were people from other ships that we were able to meet and fellowship with. There were definitely some new friendships formed.” With the success of the event, the George Washington FCPOA and other commands already have their sights set on next year, and are exploring ways to build off this year’s success. “All-in-all, I think it turned out great,” said Orr. “For it to be the first time, I think we accomplished things that no one has done. The competitions and games we played, the food, just the entire vibe; everything was amazing. We’ve set the bar for what should follow and I’ve already had representatives from other organizations reach out and ask what can be done to make this event even bigger and better next time.”
“Your Knowledge can Shape the Future” USS George Washington (CVN 73)
Upcoming Project Events Flood Docking/Undocking
May 2019
CVN 72 Undocking Lesson (#2598) Preparation for Fire Pump testing During fire pump testing for the Undocking of CVN 72 there were issues that needed to be resolved. Someone that participated in the Survey for the undocking wished they had been better prepared and that recommendation is in the suggested solution block. Walkthrough the sequence of events for fire pump testing with personnel on station and inserting common anomalies (leaks/failures/ grounds) so that personnel assigned are better prepared.
Holiday Travel Safety
The Red Cross recommends these safety steps for travelers who will drive to visit their loved ones during this holiday season: - Make sure the vehicle is in good working order. - Be well rested and alert. - Give one’s full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones. - Observe speed limits – driving too fast or too slow can increase the chance of being in a collision. - Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If the driver is tired, stop and get some rest. - Don’t follow another vehicle too closely. - Turn the headlights on as dusk approaches, or if using windshield wipers due to inclement weather. - If car trouble develops, pull off the road as far as possible. Go to TRiPS, register and do a Trip Risk Assessment. (https:// TRIPS.SAFETY.ARMY.MIL/) TRiPS is a mission-planning tool, and driving is a mission. TRiPS is designed to reinforce common-sense driving skills. http://www.redcross.org http://www.public.navy.mil/NAVSAFECEN
CVN 72 Flood Dry Dock Lesson (#2554 Protection of Propeller shafts while in the dock During the CVN 72 RCOH, the number 2 propeller shaft was damaged by a fork lift on the 3ird shift and had to be inspected, this cost time and money to an already tight schedule. After this incident happened, Newport News Shipbuilding barricaded the Shafts to prevent this occurrence again. The Lesson here is to barricade them as soon as they are installed
Objectives of the 2019 CT1 Winter Community Meeting
- Develop a shared understanding of CT1’s strategic objectives and alignment to CT1 Priorities. - Learn about CT1’s processes, approaches, and tools that support sharing and using knowledge before, during and after Availabilities and how to apply when needed. - Understand the Knowledge Sharing Networks’ performance expectations on Availabilities and impact / value to date. - Apply CT1’s standard knowledge flow process, Ask-Improve-Share as part of daily work flow. - Learn about and participate in activities to promote adoption of CT1 processes, approaches and tools.
- Expand skills and competencies by participating in networking and training activities. For more information: https://usff.navy.deps.mil/sites/cnal/CT1/
Upcoming Carrier Team One Events
PPR WG CT1 Community Meeting Knowledge Management CoP
4-6 Dec 18 8-10 Jan 19 29-31 Jan 19
Welcome ET3 Kayly Johnson to the KM Team.
Send your lessons to the KM team. Knowledge Management Point of Contacts SUPSHIPNN CVN 73 Propulsion Knowledge Manager Al Trombley, Allen.Trombley.ctr@supshipnn.navy.mil
757-534-3518
SUPSHIPNN CVN 73 Topside Knowledge Manager Rickey Roach, rickey.roach.ctr@supshipnn.navy.mil
757-688-1010
NNS CVN 73 Knowledge Manager Marina Medina, marina.medina@hii-nns.com
757-534-3508
CVN 73 Ship’s Force Knowledge Manager LCDR David Tang, david.tang@cvn73.navy.mil
757-534-0027
“It’s our obligation to make the most out of every minute, because every minute counts”
NAVY NEWS
CORNER
GEORGE’S Intermediate Sudoku by KrazyDad, Volume 1, Book 12
By Lt. Cmdr. Lydia E. Bock, Commander, Joint Strike Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Sudoku #1 9
3 4 7 2 4 3
7 8 4
6 4 6 7 1
2 6 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 8, 2018) Sailors direct an F-35C Lightning II assigned to the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ethan J. Soto/Released)
the squadron to be in the physical custody of at least 30 percent of the assigned aircraft. Other requirements include the installation and operation of management information systems such as Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS) and its accompanying support networks. There is also a requirement for operational F-35C squadrons to maintain robust, on-track, maintenance programs, as well as complete various inspections ranging from weapons to safety. Aircrew complete a transition flight syllabus and maintain certain proficiencies in accordance with Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures and Standardization (NATOPS). “The Argonauts’ safe-for-flight operations certification was earned through the herculean effort of squadron Sailors and is an acknowledgement that they have developed the skills to safely maintain and operate the F-35C Lightning II,” said Joint Strike Fighter Wing Commander Capt. Max McCoy. “We eagerly look forward to declaring IOC and integrating the F-35C into the carrier strike group. This aircraft is a key component to maintaining the U.S. Navy’s dominance anywhere in the world.” “VFA-147 continues to accomplish significant milestones, advancing this program closer to its ultimate goal of integrating the F-35C into the fleet,” said McCoy. “The exceptional performance
of the squadron throughout the entire transition process is a testament to the hard-working Sailors who make the U.S. Navy F-35C program a reality. We will succeed because the professionals in this program will not let it fail. It is evident in all that they do. It is who we are as a team.” Commander, Joint Strike Fighter Wing, headquartered at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, ensures that each F-35C squadron is fully combat-ready to conduct carrier-based, all-weather, attack, fighter and support missions for Commander, Naval Air Forces. With its stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity and range, the F-35C will be the first 5th generation aircraft operated from an aircraft carrier. Currently, the U.S. Navy F-35C program is scheduled to declare initial operating capability by the end of February 2019.
5 8 4 1 2 1
9 © 2013 KrazyDad.com
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9. If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork. Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle. Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck.
Pun #2
What do you do with a sick boat? You take it to the dock.
We the Unwilling, lead by the Unknowing, are doing the impossible for the Ungrateful. We have done so much for so long with so little that we are now qualified to to anything with nothing.
The “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 completed their carrier qualifications Dec. 12 aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), the final required component for Commander, Joint Strike Fighter Wing (CJSFW) to issue the squadron its safe-for-flight operations certification. This marks a major milestone for the U.S. Navy toward declaring Initial Operating Capability (IOC) next year. The safe-for-flight operations certification (SFFOC) is the final step for VFA-147’s transition from the F/A-18E Super Hornet to the F-35C Lightning II. This process ensures a squadron is manned with qualified personnel to implement maintenance and safety programs in support of fleet operations. All transitioning squadrons are required to complete this certification prior to independently conducting flight operations. When introducing a new aircraft to the fleet, the appropriate fleet replacement squadron (FRS) is assigned oversight responsibility for the transitioning unit. The VFA-125 “Rough Raiders” were reactivated in January 2017 to fulfill the appropriate FRS role for the Lightning II. Since completing their combat deployment last winter, VFA-147 has been working with the Rough Raiders to accomplish the safe-for-flight operations certification. The Argonauts will be able to operate independently from the Rough Raiders, having received their safe-for-flight operations certification. “Since we returned from deployment last December, our team has been driving toward fully bringing this platform online for the Navy,” said VFA-147 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Patrick Corrigan. “As the Argonauts close out 2018 and the final stages of our safe-for-flight certification, we continue to exhibit the relentless drive required to meet transition goals and milestones. With this certification, we are announcing that we have the right skills, training and people to take this mission and execute it, to its fullest potential.” The safe-for-flight operations certification encompasses areas such as equipment, personnel and programs. Not least among them is the requirement for
Strike Fighter Squadron 147 Declares Safe-For-Flight
Pun #1 Why do Norwegian boats have a barcode on them? So when they return to port they can Scandinavian.