99 ANAers!! 

First, a mix of announcements, administrative issues and, then, some news –  

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL – Membership renewals are best and most efficiently accomplished by mailing (USPS) your billing form back to our Membership Coordinator, Ann Burton.  Trying to renew by telephone may be chancy as Ann may not be able to take your call and messages can be hard to understand.  If you have a particular question about membership, please try sending an email to Ann at anahqtr@aol.com   – that way Ann or one of the rest of us can do the research necessary and provide you a timely and accurate answer, all far more efficiently than trying to do that while holding on the phone.

 SQUADRON ROSTERS – Squadron rosters developed from the HQ membership database are a great tool when checked against your squadron records.  Our Membership Coordinator, Ann, can provide your roster in an emailed Microsoft Excel format.  So she can fit that activity in with processing memberships, please give her a week’s notice - at anahqtr@aol.com  - before your deadline. 

Arlington Services – Capt  “Deke” Bordone, USN (Ret) –

We have lost another Warrior - Internment with full military honors for Capt Deke Bordone, USN (Ret) are scheduled for 1300 Thursday, 15 November 2007, at Arlington National Cemetery.   Family and friends are requested to be at the Administration Building not later than 1230 and will drive in their private vehicles from the assembly area to the gravesite. Mary Belle will be hosting a reception for all attendees at the Fort Myer Officer’s Club immediately following the services.  Directions to the Cemetery can be found at http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/directions.html . Phone number for Arlington National Cemetery is (703) 607 8000. 

NAVY PROFESSIONAL READING – When you have a moment, look at the Navy Professional Reading Program -  http://www.navyreading.navy.mil/  - which was developed to encourage a life-long habit of reading and learning among all Sailors. The books included in these collections can provide readers with a deeper understanding and appreciation for naval heritage, the profession of arms, and the complex modern world in which we operate.

The recommended readings included in these collections have been categorized by experience level as well as the nature of the subject matter.

 Some news follows – please see the attachment 

Best regards,
Dutch
Secretary/Treasurer
Association of Naval Aviation
1446 Waggaman Circle
McLean, VA 22101
703-893-3955

**********

Executive Director and Editor, WINGS OF GOLD = Zip at goldwings@verizon.net

**********
www.anahq.org 
General Membership:
2550 Huntington Ave, Suite 202
Alexandria, VA 22303

703-960-6806

Ann at anahqtr@aol.com

********** 

“…to educate and encourage an interest among the general public as to the importance of Naval Aviation in the defense of the United States and its allies….”

Osprey Squadron Heads to Iraq

Associated Press  |   RALEIGH, N.C. - The Marines have deployed to Iraq the first combat squadron of V-22 Ospreys, the tilt-rotor aircraft that spent decades in development due in part to a series of mechanical failures and fatal crashes.

The Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 and 10 Ospreys left Monday from New River Air Station next to Camp Lejeune aboard the USS Wasp, Marine Maj. Eric Dent said. A typical Osprey squadron has roughly 200 Marines.

Marine Corps commandant Gen. James T. Conway said in April the squadron would deploy to Al-Asad Airfield, the second largest air base in Iraq located more than 100 miles west of Baghdad.

The squadron, dubbed the "Thunder Chickens," includes 20 pilots and is to spend around seven months ferrying troops, supplies and cargo, Dent said.

The Osprey takes off vertically like a helicopter and flies like a plane. It flies faster and farther than helicopters.

Development of the aircraft was set back by two fatal crashes in 2000, one in Arizona that killed all 19 Marines aboard and another in Jacksonville that killed four.

In February, the fleet of 40-plus Ospreys at New River was grounded for several days after a faulty chip was discovered in a new Osprey being tested in Texas. The circuit lets three flight control computers back up each other.

The military plans to eventually operate 458 Ospreys, with 360 for the Marine Corps and the others used by the Navy and Air Force, Dent said.

He defended the safety of the Osprey, which has cost billions of dollars to develop. Dent said the aircraft had "one of the most extensive technical and programmatic reviews in the history of aircraft development.

"Since the aircraft resumed full flight operations more than six years ago, aircrews have logged more than 27,000 safe flight hours," he said.

The time and cost for developing the Osprey could have been better spent on less-expensive aircraft, such as helicopters, said Lawrence Korb, a defense analyst at the Center for American Progress in Washington D.C.

Each Osprey costs about $100 million when factoring in research and development expenses, he said.

"The question is, could you have gotten more sooner if you could have gone to another type of plane," he said.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

T-45 Crashes Near Kleberg County Airport
Story Number: NNS070927-20
Release Date: 9/27/2007 6:40:00 PM
From Chief of Naval Air Training Public Affairs

KINGSVILLE, Texas (NNS) -- A T-45 Goshawk attached to Training Squadron 21 crashed on King Ranch about 2 miles north of Kleberg County Airport, Sept. 27, while returning to NAS Kingsville from a routine training flight.

The student piloting the aircraft ejected safely. He was evaluated on scene by NAS Kingsville Fire and Rescue personnel and transported to the Christus Spohn Kleberg hospital with minor injuries.

After a complete medical evaluation and treatment of his minor injuries he will be released.

The cause of the incident is under investigation.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

Friday, September 28, 2007

Northrop wins two contracts for carrier work

Los Angeles Business from bizjournals

Northrop Grumman Corp. said Friday it has won a pair of contracts from the U.S. Navy for maintenance and modernization work on aircraft carriers in San Diego and Yokosuka, Japan.

One contract has Northrop manage the maintenance of the USS Nimitz, USS Ronald Reagan and other nuclear aircraft carriers at North Island in San Diego. The contract has a one-year base with four one-year options and is worth $120 million.

The second is a $1.8 million contract to begin preparations for the arrival of the USS George Washington in Japan in 2008. Northrop will work with Sumitomo Heavy Industries on the aircraft carrier support in Japan.

Northrop's Newport News sector is the prime contractor for the work. Northrop (NYSE: NOC) is based in Los Angeles and is the nation's largest shipbuilder.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Roughead Relieves Mullen as CNO; Greenert gets 4th Star, Becomes CFFC
Story Number: NNS070929-08
Release Date: 9/29/2007 12:04:00 PM
From Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In an informal ceremony Sept. 29 presided over by Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter, Adm. Gary Roughead relieved Adm. Mike Mullen as Chief of Naval Operations.

The change of office, coming on the heels of Roughead's Senate confirmation Friday, was done without formality to allow Mullen to relieve Gen. Peter Pace as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Monday.

Secretary Winter awarded Mullen the Distinguished Service Medal, and praised his leadership.

“Thank you for your great leadership and for your great support and the teamwork you have shown during your tour. We will certainly miss you.”

Roughead -- who becomes the 29th Chief of Naval Operations -- echoed the Secretary's sentiments, saying he felt “fortunate to take over a great Navy.”

“As I’ve said on many occasions, it’s never been better. And that’s a tribute to the leadership of Mike Mullen -- his vision, his discipline, his drive to do the right thing all the time for the Navy, and alongside [his wife] Deborah, who I believe is the strongest advocate of our Navy families.”

Secretary Winter awarded Mrs. Mullen the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award for her efforts to support Navy families over the last 37 years.

“Remember,” he told her, “in our hearts you will always be part of the Navy family. Thank you very much for all you’ve done in support of our families around the world. I could not imagine a finer service you could have provided our Navy.”

Mullen ends his tour as CNO after nearly two and a half years. During that time, he focused on three priorities: sustaining combat readiness, building a fleet for the future and developing 21st Century leaders.

Mullen improved the Fleet Response Plan through the "employability/deployability" program, which preserves the Fleet's ability to surge while providing better predictability for Sailors and their families.

He grew the size of the fleet up to today's 278 ships and helped stabilize the shipbuilding program through a plan to eventually build a 313-ship Navy.

And he also advanced the diversity of the Navy's workforce through a comprehensive Diversity Concept of Operations and diversity accountability reviews, while focusing early and often on issues of family readiness and quality of life.

Mullen called diversity a “strategic imperative” for the Navy and a critical component of combat readiness.

“This is a democratic country and the military must represent the country,” he told participants at the Naval Sea Systems Command Diversity Summit Sept. 18. “And then externally, with just the expansion of missions, the places we're going, the challenges that we have, the demands that we have -- culturally, ethnically, mission-wise, wherever we go or where we're going to go in the future, diversity is an absolute must for us.”

Another “must” for Mullen was better supporting Navy families, particularly during times of need. He stood up Task Force Navy Family in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, which had affected some 88,000 Navy Families. He said the Navy learned valuable lessons from that experience that proved helpful in dealing with larger issues of family support.

“It had a tremendously positive impact,” he said during a recent podcast. “The Navy is so big as an organization, sometimes it’s difficult to really create the kind of focus we need to help those kinds of families. There are a couple messages that come from that. One is -- tremendously important that we support our families. Family readiness I equate to readiness to do our mission. And we’ve got to keep focus on that. The second thing is that because we are so big, you need to set up a task force to go do something like this.”

An advocate of strong interagency and international cooperation Mullen also fostered the development of global maritime partnerships, known as the “1,000-ship navy.”

The “1,000-ship navy” is a concept that unites maritime forces, port operators, commercial shippers, and international, governmental and nongovernmental agencies to address mutual concerns. Membership in this "navy," Mullen maintained, is purely voluntary and would have no legal or encumbering ties.

"It is a fleet-in-being of nations willing to participate in global maritime partnerships,” he told an audience in May 2007. “To face the challenges we do today, nobody can do it alone. Many countries are looking for ways to help create security through an international navy. The barriers to entry here are very low. You don't have to join; you don't have to sign a treaty."

Such partnerships will likely be one element of the new maritime strategy Roughead is expected to unveil later this fall.

Roughead was himself relieved today as Commander, Fleet Forces Command by newly promoted Adm. Jonathan Greenert. Greenert previously served as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources.

Mullen called Roughead “exactly the right officer” to lead the Navy and praised Roughead’s wife, Ellen, for her support and service as well.

“Whenever you’re in command you always worry about who you leave it to,” he said. “I can assure you I don’t have a single doubt today. Nobody could be better to lead the Navy in the future than Gary Roughead. And there’s no better team than Gary and Ellen.”

But it was Sailors who were most on Mullen’s mind.

“It’s a great Navy,” he said. “It’s been a privilege to lead it. We will cherish this experience for the rest of our lives. We will miss it. Most of all, though, we will miss the people. It’s the Sailors out there, and they are out there today very much in harm’s way, and we must always remember them in everything we do.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Nimitz Returns from Deployment
Story Number: NNS071003-17
Release Date: 10/3/2007 5:27:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea J. Kennedy, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Approximately 2,000 family members and friends showed up at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., Sept. 30 to greet the Sailors and Marines of USS Nimitz (CVN 68) after the ship completed a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf.

Loved ones arrived in the morning to greet the more than 5,000 service members disembarking the ship. Many spectators waived flags and held banners welcoming them home.

Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Chris Cortez got the coveted first kiss.

“I’m so glad we got picked to be first,” said Cortez's wife. “It’s just awesome to have him home. I love him so much.”

Also, many fathers aboard Nimitz held their newborn babies for the first time.

"It was hard being away; my baby was born two weeks after I left,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Christopher Masterson, assigned to Nimitz. “I’m just overwhelmed getting to see my daughter for the first time.”

More than 1,200 family members and friends greeted their service members in Hawaii when they embarked aboard Nimitz for the last stretch of the ship’s six-month deployment, known as Tiger Cruise.

Tiger Cruise immerses family members into Navy life; eating, sleeping and experiencing firsthand what Sailors and Marines experience while living aboard a naval vessel.

“It was an awesome experience,” said Cmdr. Kevin Head, assigned to Nimitz. “My kids got to do the Tiger Cruise with me, and they were able to see what dad does for a living and what everyone else does in the Navy.”

Nimitz’s mission while deployed was to promote peace, regional cooperation and stability. As the flagship for Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG), the ship provided security in the Persian Gulf, built community relations in India and Singapore and carried out exercises with other branches of the military near Guam.

Nimitz CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. Terry Blake, was comprised of Commander, Carrier Strike Group 11, Carrier Air Wing 11 and Destroyer Squadron 23. Nimitz CSG includes the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Nimitz; guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59); guided-missile destroyers USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Chafee (DDG 90), USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) and USS Pinckney (DDG 91); two detachments from the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 49, the “Scorpions,” and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 11, Det. 15.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CNO Delivers First Message to the Fleet
Story Number: NNS071004-02
Release Date: 10/4/2007 12:18:00 PM
From the Chief of Naval Operations

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Adm. Gary Roughead offered his first message to the fleet since assuming duties as the 29th Chief of Naval Operations on Sept 29. The text of his message is provided below:

The opportunity to continue to serve and to lead our Navy is the highest honor for any naval officer. Assuming the leadership of our Navy from Adm. Mike Mullen is a great privilege. His vision, drive, and commitment to those who serve have positioned us well today and for tomorrow. I know all of you join me in wishing him and Deborah every success as he takes up his new responsibilities as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

I am of the fleet. It is where I began and where, for the past four years, in the Atlantic and Pacific, I have had the privilege of leading our operational forces, Navy and joint. I have watched our Sailors perform magnificently from the high end of warfare to the most extensive humanitarian operation ever undertaken by our military. I am inspired by our individual augmentees and others on the ground. They are a new dimension of our navy and one in which we can all take pride. We are truly a ready, agile, and global Navy.

My priorities have been and will remain, maintaining our current readiness, building a Navy for tomorrow, and that which underpins all we do, our people? Our Sailors, our civilians and our very special families, whose hallmarks are sacrifice and self-reliance.

Current readiness.

Maintaining our warfighting readiness will ensure we are an agile, capable, and ready force. We are continually generating forces for the current fight and are deploying and employing our navy much differently than in years past. We are simultaneously providing ready naval forces and personnel for joint force commanders, sustaining forward presence, fulfilling commitments to allies, and responding to increasing demands in regions where we have not routinely operated, specifically South America and Africa. Our global blue-water Navy, centered around carrier strike groups, expeditionary strike groups, and submarines is unmatched, and will continue to be our cornerstone. Our Fleet Response Plan will increase our operational availability and allow us to operate with more flexibility.

A Navy for tomorrow.

The means and methods of conflict and the security environment undergo constant change. Technology and new approaches are advancing rapidly. Our ships, submarines, aircraft, weapons, and networks must outpace potential adversaries. The cost of future systems and the ability of our overall acquisition processes to pace the speed of technological innovation will challenge our ability to deliver a balanced force. Accordingly, we must be exacting in developing requirements, mindful of the factors that increase cost, and disciplined in our process to be effective, efficient, and timely in delivering future capability.

People.

Our people are the foundation for all we do. All we acquire is of little worth without the people who give it value. Our policies and practices must enable us to attract, recruit, retain and fulfill the men and women of America, and our Navy must reflect the diversity of our nation. The demographics, attitudes, and expectations of our population are changing and we must understand that dynamic. Our policies must advantage us and address the many rewards of service, and we must be unwavering in our obligation to take care of those who serve in our navy and the families who support them. This is particularly important today for those serving in individual augmentation assignments.

Those are my priorities, but there is another dimension to our future. We have a unique historical, organizational, and operational relationship with the U.S. Marine Corps. Our forces train, deploy, and fight together. Our capabilities, programs and personnel issues are inextricably linked. I am committed to the Navy and Marine Corps partnership and to making it even stronger and more relevant for the future. We can do much for our country as a Navy-Marine Corps team.

Although we are at war, I see more opportunity than challenge and more in our future than in our past. I look forward to leading our Navy. I am eager to meet all that is before us, and to serving with you as we face the future and seize the opportunities ahead.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 

VAQ 132 Returns to Whidbey Island
Story Number: NNS071010-04
Release Date: 10/10/2007 11:40:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Northwest

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 132, the “Scorpions”, were welcomed home to Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, Oct. 6, after a deployment to Al Asad Air Base in Iraq.

The Scorpions were deployed for seven months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“Our missions went great and as always, we gave the support requested to keep the guys on the ground safe,” said Lt. j.g. John Grisham, of VAQ 132.

During their deployment, the Scorpions flew more 780 sorties and logged over 3,900 hours of flight time with almost 30 officers and around 145 enlisted. The squadron had a 100 percent sortie accomplishment rate.

“We did not miss one sortie we were requested for,” said Cmdr. Jeff Graf, VAQ 132 commanding officer. “We also flew an unprecedented amount of hours. I don’t think a Navy Prowler squadron has ever logged 3,900.”

“Professionalism is the key to success in any operation in the military,” said Culinary Specialist Seaman Derryl Royster. “We had it and that’s why our deployment went really well.”

The crew was welcomed home by friends and family members when they flew in by charter airplane. Their EA-6B Prowlers were left for VAQ 142, the “Gray Wolves," to support Carrier Air Wing 17 next spring.

“It felt good actually playing a part in the war and supporting our country,” said Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Airman Dennis Piccirillo. “Over the radio, I heard the troops say they appreciated what we were doing and they couldn’t have done their job without us.”

Even with all the success of the deployment the crew members were glad to be back and out of the 120 degree weather.

“It’s great to be home,” said Royster. “What really matters is that we all made it back here in one piece.”

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Naval Air Training Completes Alignment to Naval Air Forces
Story Number: NNS071005-19
Release Date: 10/5/2007 8:42:00 PM
From Chief of Naval Air Training Public Affairs

CHIEF OF NAVAL AIR TRAINING, Calif. (NNS) -- The Chief of Naval Air Training formally realigned from Naval Education and Training Command to commander, Naval Air Forces Oct. 1.

“Developing leaders with the skills to lead naval aviation in the 21st century is critical to our future success,” said Vice Adm. Thomas J. Kilcline, commander, Naval Air Forces. “We have now aligned the organization to make sure we are working together in the most effective way possible toward that goal.”

According to Rear Adm. Mark D. Guadagnini, Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA), this realignment will better match the training of naval aviators, naval flight officers and naval air crew with the requirements of the fleet.

“Our mission is to produce aviators and aircrew ready to fight and win in combat from the day they arrive in the fleet,” said Guadagnini. “By aligning what we do in the training command with the operators and resources of the fleet, we can maximize mission accomplishment.”

First begun in March 2006, CNATRA’s gradual transition from Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) to CNAF has been transparent to almost everyone. The shift involves no movements of assets, no base closures as a result of this alignment, and no significant personnel changes.

Largely an administrative movement, the realignment places all CNATRA aviation hardware, operating budgets, and cockpit-related training, known as the “seat to fleet” phase, under the cognizance of CNAF and the Naval Aviation Enterprise, while the “street to seat” phase remains under the direction of NETC.

Kilcline said that the move makes the most of the strengths of both the Naval Air Forces and NETC.

“NETC will continue to be responsible for finding the most effective and efficient means to deliver individual training from the time the individual comes into the Navy until they are assigned to their first training squadron, as well as curriculum development,” Kilcline said. “They are experts at doing just that. Meanwhile, Naval Air Forces will be able to help the training squadrons make the most of available resources so that naval aviation as a whole continues to meet the needs of the nation.”

Kilcline added that CNATRA will be the key to the success of the new alignment.

“As the Deputy Commander, Naval Air Forces for Training, CNATRA will provide the expertise to bring together the assets of Naval Air Forces and the development techniques of Naval Education and Training in order to continue to produce the world’s finest aviators.”

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Top Navy acquisition official Etter resigns

By Christopher P. Cavas - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Oct 9, 2007 17:17:34 EDT
Navy Times


Delores Etter, the Navy’s senior acquisition official, submitted her resignation Oct. 5 after a year of turmoil and embarrassment over cost growth in one of the service’s most prominent shipbuilding programs.

“I have held the position of Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition for almost two years,” Etter, 63, said in a statement. “We have accomplished a great deal in that time, but after deliberating with my family and staff, I have decided to resign from my position. This decision allows me to return to my teaching post at the United States Naval Academy in time for the spring academic semester there.”

Etter, a member of the electrical engineering faculty at the Naval Academy, was sworn into the RD&A position in November 2005. She followed a high-powered predecessor, John Young, who has been nominated as the Pentagon’s top acquisition executive.

Etter, as expected, was heavily interested in the research portion of her portfolio, but it was in the acquisition arena that she faced her severest challenges. In early January she revealed that the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program was experiencing severe cost overruns. The first LCS, under construction by Lockheed Martin, was far over its touted $220 million building price. The service has yet to issue a revised cost for the ship ­ which is nearly a year behind schedule ­ but Navy officials admit the price is approaching $400 million and may go higher. The competing General Dynamics LCS design also is expected to be over budget.

The LCS program, intended to buy a total of 55 ships that would constitute about one-sixth of the entire fleet, subsequently went into crashback mode. Before the cost growth was revealed, four LCS ships were under contract and the service had funding authorization to order two more. Since then, one of the contracted ships has been canceled, funds for two ships in 2007 are being used to pay for program cost overruns, future plans are up in the air, and Congress has expressed a deep distrust of the Navy’s ability to manage the program and accurately estimate all its shipbuilding costs.

Navy Secretary Donald Winter personally took control of the effort to discover how the Navy was largely unaware of the LCS cost growth and to gain control of the program. The secretary’s deep involvement was widely seen as an indication of a general loss of confidence in Etter’s ability to manage large and complex construction programs.

“I don’t think she was ever comfortable in the job,” said one Capitol Hill source familiar with Navy shipbuilding plans. “I don’t thing it was a job she particularly enjoyed doing. She had to confront a lot of tough problems not of her own making, but in my view she did not have the skills to solve these problems, which primarily are in shipbuilding.

“Her skills and background are in research and development,” the source continued, “and the Navy’s R&D portfolio is going to be winding down over the next few years. She was not just the right person to handle all these lead ship problems.”

In a statement released to the media, Winter praised Etter’s performance.

“I deeply appreciate Dr. Etter’s service to the Navy, the Marine Corps and our nation during this time of war,” Winter said, acknowledging that “she has addressed challenges facing the department’s acquisition portfolio.” And, he added, “I value her counsel, and trust that her return to the academic community at the Naval Academy will ensure her leadership and talent benefit the department for years to come.”

Etter’s resignation is effective Dec. 31, but sources said she would likely leave before that time.

The service was mum Tuesday on a possible successor to Etter, while a host of names were bandied about the Pentagon suggesting a potential acting or permanent successor. Among the many names being unofficially talked about is Vice Adm. David Architzel, Etter’s principal deputy. Architzel the former program executive officer for aircraft carriers, assumed the new position of deputy in early August.

Several observers pointed out that, as with all politically appointed positions associated with an administration that has only 15 months to go, finding qualified and capable people willing to do a job for only a relatively short period of time is a challenge.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Navy Establishes First MH-60R Squadron
Story Number: NNS071011-14
Release Date: 10/11/2007 4:47:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/NAC) David C. Mercil, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) -- The Navy established Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 in a ceremony held at Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, Oct. 4.

The first MH-60R squadron, HSM 71's aircraft is replacing the SH-60B and SH-60F aircraft due to possessing the combined capabilities of the two aircraft.

“The (MH-60R) aircraft changes the way we fly, the way we fight and the way we go to sea,” said Rear Adm. Garry E. Hall, commander, Amphibious Group 2.

The Navy has been working to implement the MH-60R for more than a decade. HSM 71 is the first of five MH-60R squadrons; other MH-60R squadrons are expected to be established in the future.

“Now, we have one aircraft with all the capabilities of every (previous) aircraft,” said Cmdr. Michael K. Nortier, HSM-71's commanding officer. “That’s a significant change.”

Although the mission requirements of the MH-60R will be similar to the SH-60B and SH-60F, the new aircraft features upgraded mission and flight displays, an improved advanced flight control computer and an integrated self-defense suite.

“This aircraft is the aircraft that is taking over the anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare helicopter missions for the U.S. Navy,” said Lt. Carey Castilian, HSM 71's readiness officer. “It has the radar of the SH-60B and the sonar from the SH-60F.”

Unlike traditional helicopter anti-submarine light squadrons, which deploy in separate detachments to small ships, HSM 71 will deploy to an aircraft carrier as part of the carrier air wing. HSM 71’s first deployment is scheduled to be aboard USS John C. Stennis’ (CVN 74) next deployment.

“We just got a new ‘bird,’ and it’s a new squadron,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Joseph Grandas, assigned to HSM 71. “I feel it’s more exciting than challenging.”

HSM 71’s primary mission will be to support surface and anti-submarine warfare, command, control and communications, command and control warfare and mobility and non-combat operations. The secondary mission will be to support search and rescue, medical evacuation, vertical replenishment, naval surface fire support and communications relay.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The 'So What' factor puts Oct. 10 airpower summary in perspective

10/12/2007 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- The Combined Air and Space Operations Center's airpower summary provides a daily account of the integration and synchronization of airpower. But some folks may ask, "So what? What does this summary really mean?"

The "So What" factor for Oct. 10's airpower summary is that five dozen coalition Soldiers and Airmen battling Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan are alive today because of 19 consecutive hours of airpower.

The scoop: The CAOC received a request for assistance from "troops in contact," meaning coalition ground forces, who were encountering enemy fire. CAOC operations and planners provided eight A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, four F-15E Strike Eagles and a B-1B Lancer. They also provided AWACs; tankers; and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets.

The mission was guided by the Air Support Operations Center and controlled from the Combined Reporting Center. Taliban were defeated and coalition ground forces were empowered using such airpower tactics as shows of force, strafing runs and, when needed, precision air strikes.

As a member of the ground forces later told CAOC staff members, "It was the middle of 'bad guy' territory and the only firepower available to them is what the (senior offensive duty officer) found for us...Your folks flexed for us and were able to deliver the desperately needed firepower."

The following is the airpower summary for operations on Oct 10. 

In Afghanistan, Air Force aircraft proved to be the decisive force during a day-long firefight.

While waiting for egress support in the vicinity of Uruzgan, a group of about 60 coalition forces were attacked by an unknown number of enemy combatants. Joint terminal attack controllers assigned to the units called in continuous airpower to deter the aggressors and destroy their fighting positions.

Air Force A-10s, F-15Es and a B-1B combined to provide more than nineteen hours of close-air support for coalition Soldiers on the ground.

The F-15Es and A-10s provided four "show of force" overwatch flights, deterring the enemy from attacking friendly forces.

In addition, the A-10s conducted strafing runs using cannon rounds, GBU-12s and a rocket. The F-15Es conducted strafing runs and dropped GBU-38s and GBU-12s.

The B-1B dropped GBU-31s and GBU-38s.

As a result of the efforts of the aircrews and the JTACs on the ground, all coalition personnel were able to egress safely from the area, with only one reported injury.

In Kandahar, enemy combatants were attacking coalition forces. A-10s engaged the enemy positions with cannon fire. The JTAC confirmed that the mission was successful.

An enemy gun position in Kandahar was bombed with GBU-38s by F-15Es. The mission was deemed a success by the JTAC.

During the same mission, an F-15E conducted a show of force with flares to deter enemy activities. The JTAC confirmed that the desired effect was achieved.

In Tarin Kowt, coalition forces were taking fire from a compound. A Royal Air Force GR-9 Harrier bombed the compound with a general purpose 540-pound bomb. The JTAC confirmed the strike was successful.

During the same engagement in Tarin Kowt, a French Mirage 2000 conducted an air strike on the enemy compound with a GBU-12. The desired effect was achieved and the mission was declared a success by the JTAC.

In Gardez, A-10s engaged enemy personnel with cannon rounds and a GBU-12. The JTAC confirmed that the desired result was achieved.

A-10s used a general-purpose 500-pound bomb and cannon rounds to engage enemy personnel near Ali Kheyl. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful.

Also in Ali Kheyl, F-15Es engaged enemy personnel with a GBU-12 and cannon rounds. The JTAC confirmed that the target was hit successfully.

In total, 43 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the International Security Assistance Force and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Ten Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, a B-1B bombed two bridges near Al Muqdadiyah with GBU-31s and GBU-38s. One bridge was occupied with enemy combatants and the other was used as crossing point by enemy personnel. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful.

A Navy F/A-18 Hornet struck a roadside improvised explosive device in Al Muqdadiyah with a GBU-51. The JTAC confirmed that the target was destroyed.

Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons used GBU-38s to strike IEDs discovered near Al Muqdadiyah. The JTAC confirmed that the IEDs were destroyed.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 66 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions supported coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Eighteen Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Iraq. Additionally, seven Air Force, Navy and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift support, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Some 146 airlift sorties were flown, 386 tons of cargo were delivered and 4,310 passengers were transported. Airlift included approximately 52,480 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews from Canada, Australia, Japan and Iraq flew in support of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On Oct. 9, Air Force, French and RAF aerial refueling crews flew 47 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.0 million pounds of fuel to 248 receiving aircraft.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Oct. 11 airpower summary: C-17s provide 'best option' for force resupply

10/12/2007 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- The Combined Air and Space Operations Center's airpower summary provides a daily account of the integration and synchronization of airpower. But some folks may ask, "So what? What does this summary really mean?"

The Oct. 11 airpower "So What" factor is about options.

You're with a group of coalition ground forces heavily involved in keeping the Taliban on the run. However, you need to get extensive winterization supplies because the temperatures are dropping and the Air Force combat weatherman is reporting snow. What are your options?

Option 1: Redirect troops for convoy duty which means they'll be driving on rugged Afghan roads for days, to and from Bagram.

Option 2: Call the CAOC and get Air Force airlifters to airdrop the needed supplies to your front door.

Today's choice for the 1-503 Infantry Regiment: The Air Force conducted one of the largest airdrops in Operation Enduring Freedom history, delivering 60-plus bundles of winter supplies, weighing 82,600 pounds, to ground forces in a remote Afghan location from two C-17s. In three minutes, Soldiers had their supplies, a resupply that would have taken days to move by convoy over rugged, mountainous terrain. The airdrop spared them from having to conduct a lengthy and life-threatening convoy.

This option also had some bonus points. By using C-17s instead of C-130 Hercules aircraft, the Air Force was able to maintain their regular C-130 missions in the area. And, it would have taken four C-130s to conduct this airdrop.

The Air Power summary for Oct 11 is as follows:

Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Oct. 11, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II conducted a show of force over Gardez by dispensing flares. The on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed a successful mission deterring enemy activity.

During a show of force in Orgune, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles dropped flares to deter enemy activity. The JTAC declared the mission achieved its desired effect.

An F-15E performed a show of force in Orgune during an armed overwatch for a coalition convoy. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful.

In Gardez, an A-10 used flares while conducting a show of force over checkpoints to deter enemy activities. The JTAC declared the mission achieved its desired effect.

In total, 37 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Eight Air Force and Royal Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

In Iraq, Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons engaged enemy combatants with guided bomb unit-38s in Samarra. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful.

A show of force was conducted by an F-16 to support friendly forces during an enemy engagement in Kirkuk.

Enemy personnel installing a road side improvised explosive device in Al Muqdadiyah were targeted with a rocket by an Air Force MQ-1 Predator. The strike was assessed as successful by the JTAC.

An F-16 Fighting Falcon performed a show of force to deter enemy activities and violence in the area of a building in Nasiriyah being used as an enemy meeting place. The JTAC confirmed that the desired result was achieved.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 61 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions supported coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Twenty-two Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Iraq. Additionally, five Air Force and Navy aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift support, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Some 157 airlift sorties were flown, 368 tons of cargo were delivered and 3,758 passengers were transported. Airlift included approximately 52,480 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews from Canada and Japan flew in support of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On Oct. 10, Air Force and RAF aerial refueling crews flew 51 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.1 million pounds of fuel to 270 receiving aircraft.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

071004-N-1189B-127 GULF OF AQABA (Oct. 4, 2007) - A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263, Marine Aircraft Group 29, takes off from the flight deck of the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). Wasp is on surge deployment to the Middle East carrying the Osprey to its first combat deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary L. Borden (RELEASED)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                         No. 1225-07
October 17, 2007

 New Maritime Strategy Released

               The Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard have released "A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower," a unified maritime strategy that explains the comprehensive role of the sea services in an era marked by increased globalization and change. This is the first time a unified maritime strategy has been signed by all three of the sea services.

                The strategy integrates seapower with other elements of national power in addition to that of friends, partners and allies. It states that protecting the homeland and winning the nation's wars is matched by a corresponding commitment to preventing war. Additionally, it codifies the requirement for continued development and application of existing core capabilities of forward presence, deterrence, sea control and power projection, while recognizing the need for expanded capabilities of maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

                "This strategy addresses the balance of capabilities of our maritime services. It reaffirms our core capabilities of forward presence, deterrence, sea control and power projection. It also commits our maritime forces to increased international cooperation for the benefit of all," said Navy Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of Naval Operations. "It reflects the expectation of the people of the United States to be a strong maritime force to protect our homeland and work collaboratively with partners around the world to secure and stabilize the global waterways that are critical to our prosperity."

                "While we must maintain a balance of forces to be able to deliver credible combat power as deterrence, we also believe preventing wars is as important as winning wars," said Marine Gen. James Conway, Commandant, U.S Marine Corps. "We need to be the most ready when the nation is least ready." 

                "Keeping the seas safe and secure from a broad range of threats and hazards is in everyone's best interest, said Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. "The key to global prosperity and security is through cooperation and coordination."

                The strategy was developed collaboratively, using an open and inclusive approach that drew upon the insights of academic, business, civic and military leaders and strategists. The resulting strategy binds maritime services more closely together than they have ever been before to promote stability, security and prosperity at home and abroad.

            A copy of the strategy is available on the Navy website at http://www.navy.mil. For more information, contact Navy public affairs at (703) 697-5342.
********************************************************************************************************** 

The direct link to the new Strategy is http://www.navy.mil/maritime/

The whole of the document (a .pdf file) is at http://www.navy.mil/maritime/MaritimeStrategy.pdf

A one-page synopsis can be found at  http://www.navy.mil/maritime/display.asp?page=strglance.html

- Dutch

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

HSL-43 Returns from 6-month Deployment
Story Number: NNS071019-10
Release Date: 10/19/2007 3:52:00 PM

By Lt. j.g. Brendan O’Dea Negle, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light 43 & Naval Air Forces Public Affairs

NAVAL AIR STATION, North Island (NNS) -- “Los Gatos Locos” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light (HSL) 43, Det. 2, returned to San Diego, Oct. 6, following a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment.

Attached to the Pearl Harbor-based USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer, with the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, HSL-43 conducted maritime security operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

"The logistical hurdles of a San Diego-based detachment and a Pearl Harbor-based ship presented unique challenges,” said HSL-43 Det. 2 Maintenance Officer Lt. Greg Lembo. “Through an exceptionally long workup cycle, a pre-cruise maintenance inspection away from our home unit and the cross-deck of aircraft on the USS Bonhomme Richard, Det. 2’s maintainers and aircrew performed exceptionally."

Det. 2 departed San Diego for deployment April 10. Once off the coast of Hawaii, the strike group conducted anti-submarine exercises before Chung-Hoon and HSL-43 detached from ESG-5 and chopped into the Persian Gulf.

Upon arrival, Chung-Hoon and Los Gatos Locos locked arms with Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 – a multinational naval coalition established near the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom and comprised of naval ships from Canada, France, Germany, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Together they conducted maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Operations with theater CTFs allow better coverage of the geographical area. In addition, communications are streamlined leading to enhanced cooperation with coalition nations, said Lembo.

HSL-43 aided CTF-150 with anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia by gathering intelligence, flying armed surveillance and reconnaissance missions, and providing humanitarian relief.

During this time, Los Gatos Locos were asked by Somalia’s Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Gedi to provide assistance to a commercial cargo vessel in distress. Despite a high sea state, the vessel’s inability to maneuver, and several large hazards scattered along the length of the ship, the aircrew successfully lowered several weeks’ worth of food, water and supplies, giving the stranded crew the time it needed to eventually return to port under its own power.

“[Aiding the Somalian vessel was] a great opportunity to help others in need as well as put my training and skills to good use,” said HSL-43 Aircrew Member, Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Brock.

The squadron soon detached from CTF-150 to join CTF-158 – the task force responsible for training Iraq’s Navy and Marines to safeguard their territorial waters and protect two off-shore oil platforms, the Al Basra and Khawr al Amaya oil terminals – in the Northern Arabian Gulf.

The aircrews monitored maritime traffic and supported 31 boardings performed by Chung-Hoon’s visit, board, search and seizure teams, while logging a total of 350 flight hours.

“We were only a few hundred yards from those oil platforms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Herr, Det. 2 officer in charge. “Every member of the detachment could see what we were defending and put forth an incredible effort to accomplish the mission.”

According to Lembo, the work accomplished on the deployment could be described in two words, “truly inspiring.”

“The Sailors of HSL-43 Det. 2 endured a demanding deployment schedule, a multitude of aircraft and equipment challenges, and prolonged operations in the extreme conditions of the Northern Arabian Gulf,” Lembo said. "Their combined efforts and teamwork allowed for the execution of 930 mishap-free flight hours in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Status of the Navy October 22, 2007

Navy Personnel

Active Duty:   337,690

Officers:   51,428  

Enlisted:   281,872

Midshipmen:   4,390

Ready Reserve:   128,421 [As of 07 Sep]  

Selected Reserves: 69,933  

Individual Ready Reserve: 58,488

Reserves currently mobilized:   5,805 [As of 17 Oct]

Personnel on deployment:   53,068

Navy Department Civilian Employees:   175,416

Ships and Submarines

Deployable Battle Force Ships: 279  

Ships Underway (away from homeport): 114 ships (41% of total)  

On deployment: 99 ships (35% of total)  

Attack submarines underway (away from homeport): 31 submarines (57%)  

On deployment: 20 submarines (37%)

Ships Underway  

Carriers:

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) - Philippine Sea

USS Enterprise (CVN 65) - 5th Fleet

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) - Pacific Ocean

USS George Washington (CVN 73) - Atlantic Ocean

Amphibious Warfare Ships:

USS Wasp (LHD 1) - 5th Fleet

USS Essex (LHD 2) - Pacific Ocean

USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) - 5th Fleet

USS Bohomme Richard (LHD 6) - Indian Ocean

USS Denver (LPD 9) - Indian Ocean

USS Juneau (LPD 10) - South China Sea

USS Tortuga (LSD 46) - South China Sea

USS Rushmore (LSD 47) - Indian Ocean

Aircraft (operational): 4000+

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

NAS Whiting Field Hosts 18th NHA Fleet Fly-In
Story Number: NNS071028-01
Release Date: 10/28/2007 7:20:00 AM

By Lt. Rickie Harris, Helicopter Training Squadron 18 and Jay Cope, Naval Air Station Whiting Field Public Affairs

NAS WHITING FIELD (NNS) -- More than 20 Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard helicopters from across the country converged on Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Field, Oct. 23-26, for the 18th annual Naval Helicopter Association (NHA) Fleet Fly-In.

The event is one of just two national gatherings held by the association each year.

The Fleet Fly-In has grown from just a few aircraft to a multi-day event including several helicopter communities and almost every type of helicopter in the sea service inventory.

Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard aircraft from around the country make their way to NAS Whiting Field every year to take part in helicopter community discussions.

This event serves to give the flight students in advanced helicopter training their first taste of what aircraft they may be flying after they complete training. Highlighting the event are the indoctrination flights where many student aviators will get their first chance at the controls of a fleet aircraft.

"The main focus of the Fleet Fly-In is the students here at Whiting Field," said Lt. Dan DeCicco, this year's event coordinator. "The NHA is naval aviation's main professional organization. It provides a forum for helicopter aviators, both active and retired from all of the sea services, to address relevant issues faced by the community today and in the future."

The four-day Fleet Fly-In began the afternoon of Oct. 23, as the helicopters arrived to the base. Navy helicopters, which participated, included the H-53 Sea Stallion, the various versions of the H-60 Seahawk and the MH-60S Knighthawk. Most notably, the Navy's newest addition to its helicopter arsenal, the MH-60R, joined the list and showed off its wares both in flight and as a static display.

Marine Corps helicopter aviation brought the H-53 Sea Stallion, the H-46 Sea Knight, as well as versions of the UH-1 Huey, and the AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters.

The Coast Guard was represented by the HH-60J Jayhawk, H-65C Dolphin and MH-68A Sting Ray aircraft.

Student aviators were afforded two flight windows to take a turn at the controls of one of the fleet helicopters.

More than just hands-on experience, these events afford exposure to the different helicopter communities. The student pilots learned about the different missions, lifestyle and opportunities afforded by each community.

For many, the Fleet Fly-In can be a deciding factor in what they put down on their "dream sheet" when it comes time to decide what the future holds after completing their training and getting winged.

"Our number one goal is to provide interaction between fleet aviators and students," said Cmdr. Kevin Kropp, commanding officer Helicopter Training Squadron 8, host squadron of the Fleet Fly-In. "It gives them exposure to different aspects of the helicopter community, which is critical to the development of our officers."

Ensign Jeff Ross has been at NAS Whiting Field for nearly 11 months as a student aviator, and this was his first opportunity to handle an aircraft with characteristics different from the TH-57 trainers used here.

"I liked it," Ross said with a smile about his 20 minutes at the controls of an SH-60 helicopter.
"It has a lot more power. I had the chance to experience some search and rescue mission maneuvers. You can just tell it's more geared toward combat where the 57s are geared toward training."

While he enjoyed his flight, the opportunity to speak with the pilots was important to him as well. He believes he will enjoy whatever helicopter he gets to fly after he completes the program in February.

Anti-submarine warfare or combat support are two of his strongest considerations. But like most of the other students, he is still doing his research - which is where the pilot to student interaction comes in play.

He only was able to talk to five or six of the fleet aviators, because all the students were competing for their time as well.

"Everyone wants to know the same things," he said. "What you want to do changes every week, but talking about it and seeing it is a big difference from reading about it."

The Fly-In was more than just static displays, social interaction and indoctrination flights. Various events were scheduled to provide formal opportunities to address important events and considerations affecting helicopter aviation. Community briefs were held by each of the services while industry representatives hosted displays and briefs on modern or forthcoming equipment.

"The Fleet Fly-In is an opportunity for the students to meet the folks that are operating the aircraft, talk to them about the mission, the lifestyle, etc., to get that 'hands-on' experience, where they see and fly the aircraft; and to talk to the leadership in an open forum about where they see their communities going," DeCicco said. "We hope it will keep them focused on what they're training to do."

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Norfolk Virginian-Pilot
November 1, 2007

7,500 Sailors Will Deploy Monday With Truman Strike Group

By Cindy Clayton, The Virginian-Pilot

NORFOLK--The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group will deploy Monday with nearly 7,500 sailors in support of maritime security operations.

The strike group is commanded by Rear Adm. William E. Gortney, according to a Navy news release.

Leaving from Norfolk will be the carrier Harry S. Truman, Carrier Air Wing Three, the guided missile destroyers Oscar Austin and Winston S. Churchill, the guided missile cruiser San Jacinto and the submarine Montpelier, the release said.

The guided missile cruiser Hue City and the guided missile destroyer Carney will leave from Mayport, Fla. Also, the fast combat support ship Arctic will deploy from Naval Weapons Station Earle, N.J.

Coalition forces from Great Britain will join the strike group.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

T-45 Crashes at Acadiana
Story Number: NNS071102-17
Release Date: 11/2/2007 4:23:00 PM

From Chief of Naval Air Training Public Affairs and Naval Air Station Kingsville/Training Air Wing 2 Public Affairs

NAVAL AIR STATION KINGSVILLE, Texas (NNS) -- A T-45 Goshawk from Training Air Wing 2 at Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas crashed at 6:52 p.m. shortly after taking off from Acadiana Regional Airport near New Iberia, La., Nov. 1.

Two pilots were on board the aircraft and both safely ejected prior to the crash. They sustained minor injuries and were treated at the crash site by Acadiana Regional Airport rescue personnel. The aircraft was returning to Kingsville after completing carrier landing qualifications off the Florida coast.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway. The aircraft is assigned to Training Squadron 22.