Source: United States Navy (Medical)

Coughing, hacking and sneezing might not be the official sounds of winter, but these sounds of sinus are a reminder that cold and flu season is still in the air.

Such respiratory illnesses – along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID – are on the rise, being easily spread and affecting millions across the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been at least 5.3 million illnesses, 54,000 hospitalizations, and 3,200 deaths from just the flu so far this season.

More locally, the most recent Kitsap Public Health District weekly report showed a similar rising with more residents visiting emergency rooms and urgent care clinics for respiratory illness. Two flu-related fatalities were reported in Kitsap just one week before the holidays.

Cmdr. Carolyn Ellison, Naval Hospital Bremerton Director for Public Health, advocates the CDC recommendation that everyone six months and older get the annual flu vaccine to help protect themselves and others, especially with increased flu activity in Washington State.

“Now is still a good time to get vaccinated if you haven’t already,” stressed Ellison.

Towards that need, NHB’s Immunization Clinic offers walk-in first come, first serve availability for all eligible beneficiaries for the influenza vaccine, as well as COVID vaccine.

The annual influenza vaccination is required for all active duty military personnel, selected Reservists and healthcare workers.

Last year NHB gave approximately 13,300 COVID and influenza vaccinations.

Those who are at high risk – such as older adults, people with underlying medical conditions, infants/young children, and expectant mothers – can become severely ill and potentially deal with a host of complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and the worsening of any chronic medical condition.

“As we do every year, we strongly encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine,” said Dr. Dan Frederick, NHB population health officer and public health emergency officer. “It is especially important for pregnant women and people with chronic diseases like asthma and diabetes, and those that have weakened immune systems.”

“Being vaccinated strengthens our immune system against seasonal respiratory illnesses helping to reduce symptom severity and significantly decreasing the chance of hospitalization,” added Frederick.

The flu, COVID-19 and RSV viruses are spread from person to person, especially between those in close contact – six feet or less – with each other. All can be spread by droplets that occur when someone with the illness coughs, sneezes, or talks. The droplets spray out and land on someone else and get inhaled into their lungs. A person can also get physically infected by shaking hands, touching a handrail or doorknob that has the virus on it and then touching their own nose, eyes or mouth.

There are a number of protective measures everyone can apply daily to reduce the potential spread of the viruses, such as hand washing; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; try to avoid close contact with sick people and maintain social distancing of at least six feet.

And for those sounds of sinus? If coughing and sneezing, the CDC recommends covering your nose and mouth with a tissue, then discard the used tissue in the trash. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands, and always remember to wash hands immediately afterwards.

Symptoms of infectious and contagious respiratory illnesses can include fever, cough, chills, muscle-aches, and shortness of breath. Those who have received their flu and COVID vaccination may experience milder symptoms such as headache, congestion, runny nose, sore throat and fatigue.

The most common symptoms are fever, cough, chills and shortness of breath. Those have received their flu and COVID vaccination may experience milder symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, sore throat and fatigue.

It typically takes one to four days after someone is infected to begin to experience any of the symptoms just mentioned. People who have no symptoms or who are yet to have symptoms may still be able to infect others.

The CDC notes that most people who get a cold in the winter usually recover in 7-10 days. Yet those with weakened immune systems, asthma, or conditions that affect the lungs and breathing passages could develop serious illness, such as pneumonia. Common colds are also a main reason for children to miss school and adults miss work.

Frederick attests that immunization is the primary method of reducing seasonal influenza illness, along with helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. The use of masks, particularly in crowded settings, may also be of benefit.

“The influenza vaccination and COVID-19 vaccination not only helps protect vaccinated individuals, but also helps protect entire communities by preventing and reducing the spread of the disease,” added Frederick.

The Immunization Clinic is located on NHB’s third floor of the Family Care Center wing and is open Mon-Wed-Thurs-Fri from 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Carrier Strike Group 12 Public Affairs

20 January 2024

NORFOLK, Va. —

The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) – part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) – returned to homeport in Norfolk after an 8-month deployment to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, Jan. 20, 2024.

Normandy steamed more 61,000 nautical miles while serving as the air defense commander for the strike group.

“From the North Sea to the Eastern Mediterranean, this deployment has enhanced and reinforced regional stability, as we worked with our allies and partners to uphold our mutual commitment to maritime security,” said Capt. Errol A. Robinson, Normandy’s commanding officer. “Our Sailors expertly executed complex multi-ship maneuvers with our allies and tactically controlled aircraft and the airspace, while maintaining the material readiness of the ship.  During my two tours aboard Normandy, as division officer and 23 years later as her commanding officer, I can say that my Sailors’ tireless and exacting performance was in keeping with Normandy’s 34 years of superb service.”

Over the course of 262 days, Normandy’s crew conducted over 40 replenishments-at-sea, and manned flight quarters 670 times. Normandy’s embarked air detachment, the “Spartans” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 70, flew 393 sorties, totaling 1,132 hours flown.

Normandy’s culinary team prepared and served over 388,500 meals, which included over 68,619 lbs. of fresh fruits and vegetables, 4,382 lbs. of steak, 10,520 hot dogs, 3,207 lbs. of bacon, 89,000 individual eggs and 800 lbs. of coffee.

After departing Naval Station Norfolk on May 2, 2023, the strike group spent a month steaming in the High North before transiting the Strait of Gibraltar on June 15, entering the Mediterranean Sea where the strike group would spend the rest of deployment working with allies and partners to provide maritime stability and security in the region.

Normandy participated in two named multinational naval exercises while in the Mediterranean: NATO vigilance activity Neptune Strike in July and Sage Wolverine in August. During Neptune Strike, command and control of all participating vessels was transferred to Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) to synchronize the U.S. and the NATO Alliance’s planning teams and to improve the Alliance’s ability to provide assurance, deterrence, and collective defense. Sage Wolverine consisted of 10 days of high-end maritime training events and air defense exercises with NATO allies. In concert with U.S. allies over the eight months Normandy was underway, the ship completed 24 air defense exercises, 12 low slow flier exercises, and 7 simulated air defense exercises.

Throughout deployment, Normandy’s crew embraced numerous opportunities to strengthen partnerships with allied navies, hosting crew exchanges with the U.K. royal navy Duke-class frigate HMS Kent (F 78), the Italian navy Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Carabiniere (F 593), the Turkish navy Gabya-class frigate TCG Gökçeada (F 494), and the first-in-class Hellenic navy frigate HS Elli (F 450). In addition to these crew exchanges, the 2023 deployment saw Normandy steam with frigates of the Croatian, Dutch, French, Norwegian, Polish, Spanish, and Swedish navies, demonstrating a shared commitment to promoting safety and stability in Europe.

Port visits in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations made Normandy’s Sailors de facto ambassadors, as the ship moored in: Gothenburg, Sweden; Koper, Slovenia; Rijeka, Croatia; Aksaz, Türkiye; Bar, Montenegro; and Athens, Greece. Office calls to local navy leadership, and community relations events in nearly every country Normandy visited, bolstered valuable partnerships. In Bar, Montenegro, Normandy hosted Nicole Otallah, the charges d’affaires of the U.S. embassy in Montenegro, at a reception for Montenegrin civil and military leaders held on the ship’s flight deck.

Following the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel from the Gaza Strip, Normandy and the strike group were ordered to the Eastern Mediterranean by the secretary of defense to provide a constant and stabilizing presence that would prevent regional escalation of the conflict.

“For almost 70% of Normandy’s crew, this was their first deployment,” said Command Master Chief William Palmer. “That did not deter them from seizing opportunities to excel and gain further expertise in their fields. Normandy’s Sailors are returning home more accomplished and more resilient, and their families should be proud of the work they have done.”

The GRFCSG is comprised of its flagship and namesake, the Ford-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8), Destroyer Squadron Two (DESRON-2), the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG-60), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS McFaul (DDG 74), and USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).

The squadrons of CVW-8 embarked aboard Gerald R. Ford are the “Tridents” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, the “Spartans” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 70, the “Bear Aces” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 124, the “Ragin’ Bulls” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 37, the “Blacklions” of VFA-213, the “Golden Warriors” of VFA-87, the “Tomcatters” of VFA-31, the “Gray Wolves” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142, and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by U.S. 2nd Fleet Public Affairs Office

12 January 2024

NORFOLK, Va. —

Joint Force Command (JFC) Norfolk and U.S. 2nd Fleet held a change of command ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) at Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 12.

Vice Adm. Doug Perry relieved Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer as commander of JFC Norfolk and U.S. 2nd Fleet, and as director of the Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Centre of Excellence (CJOS COE).

Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker emphasizing the significance of the command’s mission highlighting Alliance cohesion. Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Adm. Daryl Caudle, presided over the U.S. 2nd Fleet change of command ceremony where Perry was formally directed to assume leadership of the U.S. East Coast fleet. NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Gen. Christopher Cavoli, presided as Perry took the helm of JFC Norfolk. Perry received the command’s flag, symbolizing the beginning of his service as a NATO commander.

“Today’s alignment of JFC-Norfolk with 2nd Fleet demonstrates American resolve, for it joins my 2nd Fleet Naval headquarters with NATO strength and values,” said Perry. “This year, NATO celebrates its 75th Anniversary.  Given the ongoing global security situation, the relevance of NATO has never been more important. NATO started with 12 member states, and now there are 31, soon to be 32. This is a testament to the longevity and strength of the Alliance.”

After taking command, Perry emphasized the critical responsibilities of his combined commands’ during this pivotal time. Both operational commands contribute to a peaceful, stable, and conflict-free Atlantic region, and enable joint operations and training with naval forces to bolster the capabilities of the NATO Alliance.  CJOS-COE is a NATO-accredited think tank focused on innovative maritime strategies. 

Perry pointed out that successful global missions hinge on a collaborative approach with allies, underscored by a shared dedication to freedom and bolstered by cooperation, respect, and determination. He highlighted the importance of fostering trust within the command and with international partners.

 “Trust empowers our international military partnerships and underpins our collective warfighting readiness. Our ability to trust teams far forward, under mission command, distinguishes us from our strategic competitors,” said Perry. 

The U.S. and NATO continue to face distinct threats from all strategic directions. JFC Norfolk, founded in 2018, is a critical part of NATO’s adaption to changing geopolitical realties. The command remains keenly focused on multi-domain protection of the transatlantic link and the Arctic.

When discussing the growth and evolution of JFC Norfolk since 2021, Cavoli said Dwyer was the right leader at the right time to guide the command as it assumed new crucial roles in the territorial defense of the Alliance.

“JFC Norfolk’s core mission is to secure the transatlantic link to ensure the resupply and reinforcement of Europe is assured, while defending every inch of NATO territory in our assigned area of responsibility,” said Dwyer. “The work done by each member of this incredible team has done just that, and by doing so, provided for the collective defense of one billion NATO citizens. I am incredibly proud to have served alongside each and every one of you and wish you nothing but success going forward.”

U.S. 2nd Fleet disbanded in 2011 after 65 years of service and was re-established in 2018. Dwyer served as 2nd Fleet’s second commander since reestablishment. Dwyer’s next assignment will be deputy chief of naval operations for Warfighting Development, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, in Washington, D.C.

“The men and women of 2nd Fleet, no matter the mission, answered ‘all bells’ and achieved mission success every time,” said Dwyer as he reflected on his tenure. “In this new security environment during this time of strategic competition, 2nd Fleet demonstrated it is ready to defend the United States through the maritime approaches from the Atlantic and the Arctic, and for that, I will be forever grateful and proud to have served alongside each of you.”

The U.S. 2nd Fleet, reactivated in response to the evolving global security landscape, focuses on maritime operations in the Atlantic and Arctic. The CJOS Centre of Excellence, a maritime-focused NATO-accredited military think tank established in May 2006, includes 13 member nations. It is the only such center in North America and one of 25 NATO centers globally, contributing to Alliance readiness.

For more information about these units, visit their official social media pages and websites.

Joint Force Command Norfolk

www.jfcnorfolk.nato.int

U.S. Second Fleet

www.c2f.usff.navy.mil

Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Centre of Excellence

www.cjoscoe.org

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by USS Gerald R. Ford Strike Group Public Affairs

08 January 2024

NORFOLK, Va. —

The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) returned to Norfolk, Va., Jan. 4, 2024 after an 8-month deployment to the Atlantic Ocean and U.S. 5th Fleet areas of operations.

McFaul served as an independently deployed ship in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and an air defense unit in the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) off the coast of Israel. McFaul completed 34 Strait of Hormuz transits to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial traffic in a highly transited and politically sensitive area of the world. McFaul also conducted 17 close escorts for maritime allies and assets, in support of U.S. maritime security objectives in the Middle East and Europe.

“USS McFaul is a family,” said Quartermaster 2nd Class Jose Vispo, a member of the ship’s crew.. “Through the adversity and struggles, we still made it through with our chins held high. I believe that we were able to get through this very long deployment with such success because every member of the crew is treated like a brother or a sister. That family mentality turns any challenge, no matter how difficult, into a simple task. I think McFaul answered the call just as our namesake suggests: with courage, honor and sacrifice.”

In 250 days, the crew of McFaul conducted 26 replenishments at sea, sailed over 50,000 nautical miles, and safely transferred over 5,500,000 gallons of fuel. McFaul transited the Atlantic Ocean and began patrols the Gulf of Oman and Southern Arabian Gulf after transiting through the Suez Canal.

“McFaul and Team 74 return to our families and loved ones today from a record-setting eight month deployment to Fifth and Sixth Fleet Areas of Responsibility,” said Cmdr. Antonia Shey, the commanding officer of McFaul. “During our 192 days in Fifth Fleet, McFaul prevented the Iranian seizure of two motor tankers, completed an unprecedented 34 Strait of Hormuz transits, conducted rescue and assistance of distressed mariners, and escorted numerous merchant vessels to ensure free flow of commerce. Additionally, McFaul participated in joint and bi-lateral exercises strengthening partnerships and building relationships with five nations and the U.S. Air Force. The grit, determination, and hard work from every member of Team 74 contributed to McFaul’s successful deployment and I could not be prouder of Team 74.”

McFaul crew conducted maritime security operations and engaged with allied and partner nations in the 5th Fleet area of operations. McFaul navigated throughout the region providing assurance and deterring aggression, especially in the wake of the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks on Israel. While conducting patrols in the Gulf of Oman and Southern Arabian Gulf, McFaul conducted more than 130 hours of UAV operations. McFaul also hosted officers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, participated in joint operations with the U.S. Air Force, operated at sea with a Qatari ship and joined bi-lateral exercises with the Omanis in order to strengthen ties in the region. 

Strengthening partnerships during the deployment to the Naval Forces Central Command area of operations builds enduring relationships and emphasizes the shared commitment to promoting safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance interoperability as close allies.

The GRFCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. 5th Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is comprised of its flagship and namesake, the Ford-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8), Destroyer Squadron Two (DESRON-2), the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG-60), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS McFaul (DDG 74), and USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Carrier Strike Group 2 Public Affairs

14 October 2023

NORFOLK, Va. —

Aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE), departed on a scheduled deployment, Oct. 14.

The strike group is scheduled to deploy to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility where it will engage with allies and partners in support of maritime statecraft, which encompasses naval diplomacy and national efforts to build comprehensive U.S. and allied maritime power.

“Each entity that comprises IKECSG has worked exceptionally hard over the last several months, and we are ready to bring maritime power in support of any tasking,” said Rear Adm. Marc Miguez, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2, IKECSG. “Our presence will undoubtedly strengthen relationships with our allies and partners, as we share the goal to deter aggression, and if required, deliver overwhelming combat power.”

The flagship Dwight D. Eisenhower will join guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107), who departed Naval Station Norfolk, and guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87), who departed Naval Station Mayport, Oct. 13.

The IKECSG is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat America’s adversaries in support of national security. It is comprised of more than 5,000 Sailors of CSG-2 staff, commanded by Miguez; flagship Dwight D. Eisenhower, commanded by Capt. Christopher Hill; Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 squadrons, commanded by Capt. Mitch McCallister; Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 staff and units, commanded by Capt. David Wroe; guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), commanded by Capt. Michelle Nakamura; and the Information Warfare Commander, Capt. Mitchell Finke.

“President Eisenhower once said, ‘never send a battalion to take a hill if a regiment is available.’ As the flagship of the strike group, the Mighty IKE is ready to provide overwhelming air power to deter aggression and promote world peace,” said Hill. “We trained rigorously for this deployment, and we are excited to celebrate the Navy’s 248th birthday by sending the best damn ship in the Navy to sea.”

The strike group’s deployment coincides with the Navy’s birthday weekend, marking 248 years of power, presence, and protection. The aircraft carrier’s deployment coincides with President Eisenhower’s birthday on Oct. 14 and is days ahead of the aircraft carrier’s 46th year of commissioned naval service on Oct. 18. IKECSG’s deployment embodies the Navy’s historical and long-standing commitment to being forward deployed, highly trained, and dedicated to defending American interests at sea, on land, and in the sky.

The Italian Navy Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Virginio Fasan (F 591) will integrate with IKECSG during the deployment. IKECSG practiced interchangeability and transfer of authority with Fasan during CSG-4-led composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) in July.

Squadrons of CVW-3 include the “Gunslingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 105, the “Fighting Swordsmen” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, the “Rampagers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131, the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123, the “Zappers” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, the “Dusty Dogs” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7, the “Swamp Foxes” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74 and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.

Ships of DESRON 22 include guided-missile destroyers Mason and Gravely.

For more information about Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, head to Facebook (/CSGTWO & /TheCVN69); Instagram (@CarrierStrikeGroupTwo & @TheCVN69); LinkedIn (Carrier-Strike-Group-TWO).

U.S. Navy photos are available at: 

and

U.S. Navy videos are available at:

and

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Ensign Stephen “Nick” Willis, USS Mason (DDG 87) Public Affairs Officer

14 October 2023

MAYPORT, Fla. —

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) departed its homeport at Naval Station Mayport for a scheduled deployment as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG), Oct. 13.

The strike group will engage with allies and partners in support of maritime statecraft, which encompasses naval diplomacy and national efforts to build comprehensive U.S. and allied maritime power.

“I am extremely proud of the incredible work this crew has put in over the past year and a half,” said Cmdr. Justin B. Smith, Mason’s commanding officer. “I am excited to see us excel in our assignments as we head east with the strike group. Mason is more than ready to answer the call for any tasking we may receive.”

Sailors said goodbye to their friends and families on the pier as they departed from Mayport, Fla., with their motto “Proudly We Serve” displayed on command ballcaps as they commenced deployment on the Navy’s 248th birthday.

“Mason is ready to complete the mission, as we have shown time and time again through the rigorous work ups and training cycle,” said Command Master Chief Carlos Slade. “The crew has executed flawlessly, and they have my full confidence for every mission. I believe the same success the crew has had will continue throughout our deployment.”

Mason has spent much of the last year underway, completing a series of certifications to develop proficiency in naval dominance.

 “We never stopped preparing and executing at a high level throughout our basic, integrated, and advanced training phases. Every certification has been building up for this very moment,” Slade said.

Along with Mason, IKECSG includes the CSG 2 staff, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 staff, the flagship aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and the DESRON 22 Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107).

Join the conversation with Mason on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MASONDDG87/.

Find more news from USS Mason (DDG 87) at www.surflant.usff.navy.mil/ddg87/.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti

10 January 2024

WASHINGTON —

WASHINGTON (Jan. 9, 2023) – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti released her priorities in a paper titled “America’s Warfighting Navy,” at the Surface Navy Association’s National Symposium, Jan. 9.

The text of America’s Warfighting Navy reads as follows:

Who We Are. We are the United States Navy, the most powerful navy in the world. We are the Sailors and Civilians who have answered our Nation’s call to service. We are Americans who embody character, competence, and dedication to our mission. Our identity is forged by the sea and we serve with honor, courage, and commitment.

What We Do. We are here to preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and win decisively in war. We operate far forward, around the world and around the clock, from the seabed to space, in cyberspace, and in the information environment to promote our Nation’s prosperity and security, deter aggression, and provide options to our nation’s leaders. We deliver power for peace, but are always postured and ready to fight and win as part of the Joint Force and alongside our Allies and partners.

Where We Are Going. The threats to our nation and our interests are real and growing. The strategic environment has changed; gone are the days of operating from a maritime sanctuary against competitors who cannot threaten us. The National Defense Strategy makes clear that we must defend our homeland, deter strategic attack, deter and be prepared to prevail in conflict against the People’s Republic of China, and meet the acute challenge of an aggressive Russia and other persistent threats. Our adversaries have designed their militaries to overcome our traditional sources of strength. We must move rapidly to stay ahead and continuously create warfighting advantages. We must think, act, and operate differently, leveraging wargaming and experimentation to integrate conventional capability with hybrid, unmanned, and disruptive technologies. Tomorrow’s battlefield will be incredibly challenging and complex. To win decisively in that environment, our Sailors must be the best warfighters in the world with the best systems, weapons, and platforms to ensure we can defeat our adversaries. We will put more players on the field—platforms that are ready with the right capabilities, weapons and sustainment, and people who are ready with the right skills, tools, training, and mindset.

Our Priorities. We will focus on Warfighting, Warfighters, and the Foundation that supports them.

Warfighting: Deliver Decisive Combat Power. We will view everything we do through a warfighting lens to ensure our Navy remains the world’s preeminent fighting force. We will prioritize the readiness and capabilities required to fight and win at sea, and the logistics and shore support required to keep our Navy fit to fight. We recognize that we will never fight alone. We will advance naval integration with the Marine Corps, and synchronize and align our warfighting efforts with the Joint Force. We will design and drive interoperability with our Allies and partners to deliver combined lethality.

Warfighters: Strengthen the Navy Team. We will use the principles of mission command to empower leaders at all levels to operate in uncertain, complex, and rapidly changing environments, ready to take initiative and bold action with confidence. We will build strong warfighting teams, recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America. We will provide      world-class training and education to our Sailors and Civilians, honing their skills and giving them every opportunity to succeed. We will ensure our quality of service meets the highest standards, and we will look after our families and support networks, who enable us to accomplish our warfighting mission.

Foundation: Build Trust, Align Resources, Be Ready. We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American People every day. We will work with Congress to field and maintain the world’s most powerful Navy and the infrastructure that sustains it. We will team with industry and academia to solve our most pressing challenges. We will cooperate with the interagency to bolster integrated deterrence. We will align what we do ashore with the warfighting needs of our Fleet.

Our Charge. America is counting on us to deter aggression, defend our national security interests, and preserve our way of life. With the right tools, a winning mindset, and the highest levels of integrity, we will operate safely as a team to deliver warfighting excellence.

I am proud to serve alongside you. I thank you and your families for your continued commitment to ensuring we are always ready.

We have taken a fix and set our course. Together we will deliver the Navy the Nation Needs. The time is now to move with purpose and urgency: ALL AHEAD FLANK!

America’s Warfighting Navy can be found online here.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Rear Adm. Max “Pepper” McCoy

03 January 2024

NORFOLK, Virginia —

The Sailors and Marines of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps team operate the most advanced weapons systems and platforms 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They deploy as integrated warfighting teams designed to operate with the joint services, partners, and allies. Today’s strategic realities underscore the mission and sense of urgency for Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 4 to train, mentor, and assess carrier strike groups, amphibious ready groups, and independent deployers to deter, defend, and if necessary, defeat the enemy in combat. 

CSG-4’s vision is increasing the Navy’s warfighting advantage to win the high-end fight through the deliberate development of warfighting capability on a foundation of tactical expertise guided by root cause analysis. This focus directly supports the Secretary of the Navy’s strategic guidance, the Chief of Naval Operations’ Navigation Plan, and Distributed Maritime Operations Concept, and it is realized along five lines of effort – Integrated Warfare; Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) training; Fleet Response Training Plan (FRTP) alignment; Assessment; and Requirements Development. 

The command’s core mission to train, mentor, and assess integrated maritime forces for worldwide assignment is informed by the current and projected strategic security environment. Recent armed conflicts remind us of the imperative for naval forces to train to any threat environment they may encounter, and underscores the complexity facing commanders leading teams from the East Coast who may operate in the U.S. Sixth, Fifth, or Seventh Fleet areas of operation. Each natural, security, and defense environment around the globe has its own unique challenges in all warfare domains. Current conflicts also emphasize the importance of relationships with allies and partners and the trust built through combined training exercises.

Maritime diplomacy and integration are a priority in CSG-4’s pre-deployment training. In 2020, Allied Vision NATO training events were incorporated into Composite Training Unit Exercises (COMPTUEX). The support of U.S. and NATO operational commanders has been critical in developing the program to include direct engagement with Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) in Lisbon, Portugal. These efforts directly contribute to interoperability in the Euro-Atlantic region, and perhaps more importantly, develop the personal and professional relationships between units and Sailors that deliver the ability to operate cohesively at the speed of trust. 

Reflective of the rapidly evolving nature of integrated warfare, CSG-4 works across the Navy and Joint team to increase Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) capacity for the high-end fight. The CSG-4 headquarters along with subordinate commands at Tactical Training Group Atlantic (TTGL), Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic (EWTGL), Training Support Vessel Squadron (TSVRON) 4, and CSG-4 Navy Reserve units are rapidly developing and informing an LVC training environment that will accelerate tactical and operational warfighting capability. CSG-4 employs Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training in each COMPTUEX, as well as integrating LVC into training opportunities throughout the deployment training cycle. LVC is a transformative capability that increases readiness through high-fidelity, rapid learning from the individual watch stander to the carrier strike group commander.  

CSG-4 partners with Type Commanders, CSG-15, and the Navy’s five Warfighting Development Centers (WDC) to increase tactical proficiency earlier in the training cycle, while also meeting Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) goals for high-end fight capabilities. Each of the WDCs were founded on the hard-earned legacy of TOPGUN and the Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center. And further, each is moving rapidly to deliver integrated warfighting capability since the model expanded from aviation to undersea, information, surface, mine, and expeditionary warfare communities in the past decade. Continued investment and development of each of the WDCs informed by Fleet Commander training exercises is required to pace strategic competitors.  

Similarly, CSG-4 works closely with II Marine Expeditionary Force’s Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG) to align and synchronize Blue-Green team training which supports naval integration and DMO goals. This effort goes beyond Composite Unit Training Exercises (COMPTUEX) and is integrated into events such as Large Scale Exercises 21 and 23. CSG-4 also takes every opportunity to incorporate in-service teammates from Naval Special Warfare and Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, as well as the joint force.

CSG-4 operates as a supporting command in service to the Fleet – Sailors, Marines, and their families. To borrow from U.S. Special Operations Command – humans are more important than hardware. This is a warfighting imperative. History teaches that the greatest tactical – and strategic – advantages are the corporals, petty officers, first lieutenants, and lieutenants junior grade capable of leading in conflict and who comprehend the significance of their role in our naval force.

CSG-4 will continue to push the training envelope. The teams at CSG-4’s headquarters, TTGL, EWTGL, TSVRON 4, and our CSG-4 Navy Reserve units are actively engaged in training, mentoring, and assessing carrier strike groups, amphibious ready groups, and independent deployers to deter, defend, and if necessary, defeat the enemy in combat. CSG-4 will continue to work as if today is the last day of peace.

Rear Adm. Max McCoy is a career naval aviator with more than 5,400 hours of flight time. His operational assignments include tours with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 and VFA 136, and command of VFA 86 and Carrier Air Wing TWO (CVW 2). Shore assignments include tours as a strike fighter tactics instructor, demonstration pilot with the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, Blue Angels, vice commander, 33rd Fighter Wing, and the first commodore of the Joint Strike Fighter Wing. As a flag officer he served as Commander, Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center and currently serves as Commander, Carrier Strike Group Four (CSG-4).

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by Chief Petty Officer Eva-Marie Ramsaran

03 January 2024

MEDITERRANEAN SEA —

Sailors and Marines assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) MEU((SOC)) arrived in Piraeus, Greece for a regularly scheduled port visit, Jan. 02, 2024.
During this port visit, the Sailors and Marines will have the opportunity to experience the historical city of Piraeus, while strengthening the bond with a fellow NATO ally, Greece.
“We are excited to be welcomed to Greece again,” said Mesa Verde’s Commanding Officer Capt. Marc Davis. “This is a great opportunity for the Sailors and Marines aboard the USS Mesa Verde to further strengthen the continued relationship with our NATO ally, as well as enjoy Greece’s vibrant culture.”
Prior to porting in Piraeus, the ship and embarked 26th MEU (SOC) conducted a bilateral training exercise with the 32nd Hellenic Marine Brigade, increasing interoperability and overall readiness between the two nations.
“This port visit is a great opportunity for the Marines and Sailors of the 26th MEU (SOC) to enjoy some well-earned liberty and a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Greece,” said 26th MEU (SOC) Commanding Officer Col. Dennis Sampson.
Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, composed of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), and USS Mesa Verde, are on a scheduled deployment as the tri-geographic combatant command crisis response force with elements deployed in the U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. 5th Fleet areas of operation to increase maritime security and stability, and to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.
The 26th MEU (SOC) serves as one of the United States’ premier crisis response forces capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations, to include enabling the introduction of follow-on-forces and designated special operations, in support of theater requirements of the geographic combatant commander. The 26th MEU(SOC) serves as a premier stand-in force with all-domain operational capabilities necessary to compete and win within the littorals and weapons engagement zones of an adversary in any clime or place.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) operates U.S. Naval Forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

by NAVEUR/NAVAF/SIXTH FLEET Public Affairs

01 January 2024

NAPLES, Italy —

Immediately following HAMAS’s brutal attack on Israel, the USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group was ordered to the eastern Mediterranean to contribute to our regional deterrence and defense posture.  In the coming days, the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group will redeploy to its home port as scheduled to prepare for future deployments. 

 

The Department of Defense continually evaluates force posture globally and will retain extensive capability both in the Mediterranean and across the Middle East.  This includes the current deployment of the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group to the Middle East, the deployment of additional cruisers and destroyers in the Mediterranean and Middle East, and the recent arrival of the Wasp-class amphibious ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.  The USS Bataan and USS Carter Hall join the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), these ships have re-aggregated as the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) in the eastern Mediterranean. The ARG/MEU consists of three ships and approximately 2,000 Marines that provide sea-based expeditionary forces capable of supporting a wide range of missions.

 

Also, we are collaborating with Allies and partners to bolster maritime security in the region. DoD will continue to leverage its collective force posture in the region to deter any state or non-state actor from escalating this crisis beyond Gaza. And we continue to extend our appreciation to the U.S. service members still abroad, and their families and loved ones at home, in support of our steadfast commitment to global security.