Pentagon Discuses New Internet, Social Media Policy

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2010 -- A new Defense Department policy released today authorizes servicemembers to access Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other Web 2.0 platforms from nonclassified government computers, as long as it doesn't compromise operational security or involve prohibited activities or Web sites.

Defense Department officials issued the long-awaited policy today, establishing consistent rules for all military members and employers.

Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III, who signed the policy, said it strikes a critical balance between the benefits and potential vulnerabilities of these applications. "This directive recognizes the importance of balancing appropriate security measures while maximizing the capabilities afforded by 21st-century Internet tools," he said.

While authorizing access to these tools, the new policy also recognizes the importance of protecting military networks and operations, explained David M. Wennergren, deputy assistant secretary of defense for information management and technology.

For example, the new policy allows commanders to temporarily limit that access as required to maintain operations security or address bandwidth constraints. It also prohibits malicious activity on military information networks and denies access to sites promoting prohibited activity such as gambling, pornography and hate crimes.

While information sharing may seem the polar opposite of security to some people, Wennergren said the Defense Department can no longer afford to consider just one or the other.

"If you look at either one individually, you will fail," he said. "You will have great security, but no ability to access information sharing. [Or], if you think only about sharing, you will run into issues of operational security and letting bad things into your system. So you can no longer think of them as two separate subjects."

The new policy promotes what Wennergren calls "secure information sharing," providing the balance needed to tap into the capabilities social media networking provides without compromising security.

He emphasized the importance of personal responsibility in using unclassified military networks to access these tools, and said the department will continue to evaluate the policy after it takes effect.

"There's a huge imperative for security," Wennergren said. "It is everyone's responsibility in the department to make sure they are doing all that they can to protect our information and our information systems."

Ultimately, he called responsible, security-conscious use of social media networks a win-win proposition for the Defense Department and its members, enabling them to take full advantage of the power of social media networking.

"The world of Web 2.0 and the Internet provides these amazing opportunities to collaborate," Wennergren said. It not only promotes information sharing across organizational boundaries and with mission partners, but also enables deployed troops to maintain contact with their loved ones at home.

"So if you work on those two pieces" -- access and security -- "this really is giving people this avenue to do amazing things in terms of getting the information shared and making decisions happen much more rapidly," Wennergren said.

Until now, most servicemembers have been able to access social media platforms from their government computers, but policies have not been consistent across the department. The Marine Corps instituted a policy in early 2007 blocking Marines from accessing these sites through the Marine networks. Marines have, however, been permitted to access the sites from personal computers.

(From a report by Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service.)

Download: Responsible and Effective Use of Internet-Based Capabilities (pdf)

Pentagon Releases New Internet, Social Networking Policy

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2010 -- The following news release made available Friday by the U.S. Department of Defense is the text of a statement announcing the release of a policy memorandum regarding the use of Internet-based capabilities:

Today the Department of Defense released a policy memorandum regarding the safe and effective use of Internet-based capabilities, including social networking services (SNS) and other interactive Web 2.0 applications.

The memorandum makes it policy that the DoD non-classified network be configured to provide access to Internet-based capabilities across all DoD components. Commanders at all levels and heads of DoD components will continue to defend against malicious activity on military information networks, deny access to prohibited content sites (e.g., gambling, pornography, hate-crime related activities), and take immediate and commensurate actions, as required, to safeguard missions (e.g., temporarily limiting access to the Internet to preserve operations security or to address bandwidth constraints).

The directive is consistent with the increased security measures that the Department has taken to secure its networks and reinforces existing regulations related to ethics, operations security, and privacy.

"This directive recognizes the importance of balancing appropriate security measures while maximizing the capabilities afforded by 21st Century Internet tools," said Deputy Secretary of Defense William J. Lynn III.

Use of Internet-based capabilities, including SNS, have become integral tools for operating and collaborating across the DoD and with the general public. Establishing a DoD-wide policy ensures consistency and allows for full integration of these tools and capabilities.

Download: Responsible and Effective Use of Internet-Based Capabilities (pdf)

(Report from a U.S. Defense Department news release.)

Video: USS Carl Vinson Flight Operations

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2010 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of sailors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) conducting flight operations on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. (Produced by Spc. Seaman Aaron Shelley, Defense Imagery Management Operations Center. Length: 00:02:20.)

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Video: F-18 Super Hornet Launch, USS Carl Vinson at Sea

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2010 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of an F-18 Super Hornet fighter jet launching off the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson as the USS Bunker Hill pulls alongside for a re-fueling at sea. (Produced by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ashley Van Dien, Defense Imagery Management Operations Center. Length: 00:01:54.)

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Video: Airborne Laser Testbed Experiment

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2010 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of various tests for an airborne laser testbed experiment. Scenes include heat signature of the missile, FMA engagement cockpit view and stock footage of the aircraft taking off, aerial footage while flying through the clouds and landing of the aircraft. (Courtesy Video, Missile Defense Agency. Length: 00:05:07.)

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US Navy: Construction Commences on First Joint High Speed Vessel

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 22, 2009 -- Workers at the Austal USA shipyard started fabrication of the first Joint High Speed Vessel Dec. 17 in Mobile, Ala.

"This is an important milestone for our program which brings us one step closer to delivering this critical asset to both the Army and the Navy," said Capt. George Sutton, the Strategic and Theater Sealift Office program manager for the Navy's Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. "Considerable investments in the Austal shipyard, coupled with the implementation of proven commercial technology, gives me high levels of confidence in the shipyard's ability to execute the program."

To pave the way for the start of fabrication, the JHSV program completed an extensive Production Readiness Review on Oct. 20. The ship's design maturity and readiness, the availability of materials and components, and the shipbuilder's ability to successfully start fabrication were all closely evaluated. Following the review, the Navy granted authorization for the company to begin construction.

Austal's recently constructed Modular Manufacturing Facility will eventually provide a five-fold increase in the company's existing construction capacity. This facility will have the ability to build both the Littoral Combat Ship and JHSV.

The JHSV program is procuring high-speed transport vessels for the Army and the Navy. These vessels will be used for fast intra-theater transportation of troops, military vehicles and equipment. The ship's large volume, high transport speed and inherent flexibility makes it a key asset for humanitarian and disaster relief, allied partnership and other outreach efforts.

The JHSV program merges the previous Army Theater Support Vessel and the Navy High Speed Connector, taking advantage of the inherent commonality between the two programs. To leverage the Navy's extensive experience in surface ship acquisition, PEO Ships has taken the lead on acquisition of both the Army and Navy high speed transport vessels.

The first JHSV, an Army vessel, is expected to be delivered in fiscal year 2012.

PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships, and is currently managing the design and construction of 11 major ship classes and a wide range of small boats and craft. These platforms range from major warships such as frontline surface combatants and amphibious assault ships to air-cushioned landing craft, oceanographic research ships and special warfare craft. Since its creation in November 2002, PEO Ships has delivered more than 35 major warships and hundreds of small boats and craft from more than 20 shipyards and boat builders across the United States.

(Report from a Team Ships Public Affairs news release.)

US Navy Christens Newest Virginia-Class Submarine Missouri

GROTON, Conn. (Dec. 5, 2009) The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Missouri (SSN 780) is christened during a ceremony at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn. The 7,800-ton Missouri is the seventh submarine of the Virginia class and the fifth U.S. warship to be named after the Show-Me state. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers.)

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GROTON, Conn., Dec. 6, 2009 -- With the spray of bubbly from a champagne bottle, PCU Missouri (SSN 780), the Navy's newest Virginia-class attack submarine, was christened during a late morning ceremony at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn., Dec. 5.

Missouri, the fifth Navy ship to be named in honor of the people of the "Show Me State," is "a link in the honored chain of ships to bear the name; another chapter in the storied history of the Naval service," said Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus.

SECNAV and Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates were among the many dignitaries and guests who attended the ceremony.

"We gather for this christening with the knowledge that Missouri's service builds upon a proud lineage of her namesake," said U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri, the principal speaker for the event. "We gather in the belief that her service to our country – silent as it may be – will keep Americans safe by deterring would-be aggressors. We also gather today to confidently set the tone for the character of this submarine, which will sail with one foot in her proud past, but with an eye toward the future and all the potential that it holds."

Becky Gates, wife of the secretary of defense, serves as ship's sponsor. She broke the traditional champagne bottle against the boat's sail. Her initials were welded into a plaque inside the boat during last year's keel laying ceremony.

"I am humbled that in some way, I will go wherever the submarine sails," said Becky Gates. "As this, the latest Missouri, moves on to active duty, my thoughts will always be with the dedicated patriots who sail aboard her, and the loved ones who wait for their safe return."

The christening marks another milestone for the submarine, which is "now 90 percent complete with construction and is on track to finish $72 million under budget and well ahead of scheduled," according to director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Adm. Kirkland H. Donald.

"This accomplishment is a testament of the leadership on this project. It's a tribute to each individual tradesman and sailor represented by this crew that did their job right the first time and kept the environment of success and ownership on track and ever stronger," said Donald.

The last Missouri, a legendary battleship, saw action in World War II, the Korean War, the Persian Gulf War, and was also the site where Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, Gen. Douglas MacArthur and many other U.S. and Allied officers accepted the unconditional surrender of the Japanese at the end of World War II Sept. 2, 1945.

"This new Missouri will continue the proud history of ships before her. We in Missouri are proud of this ship, we are proud of her crew, we are proud of the ship builders who constructed it," said U.S. Representative Ike Skelton of Missouri and chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.

The seventh Virginia-class submarine, Missouri is built to excel in anti-submarine warfare; anti-ship warfare; strike warfare; special operations; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; irregular warfare; and mine warfare missions. Adept at operating in both the world's shallow littoral regions and deep waters, Missouri will directly enable five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence.

Cmdr. Timothy Rexrode of Spencer, W.Va., the ship's commanding officer, leads a crew of approximately 134 officers and enlisted personnel.

Missouri is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2010 and begin her missions.

"She may patrol the waters of the Western Pacific or the North Atlantic. She may work with the Coast Guard and our international partners to stem the flow of illegal narcotics into our country. She may support our strike groups. And she will deploy to answer whatever the unknown challenges of the future, wherever they may be in support of our Maritime Strategy and our national objectives," said Mabus.

The 7,800-ton Missouri is being built under a teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Newport News. She is 377-feet long, has a 34-foot beam and will be able to dive to depths of greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. Missouri is designed with a nuclear reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing life-cycle costs while increasing underway time.

(Report by Lt. Patrick Evans, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs.)

USS Nimitz Resumes Combat Operations in Support of OEF

PERSIAN GULF (Nov. 29, 2009) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Phillip Wagner Jr.)

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USS NIMITZ, At Sea, Dec. 5, 2009 -- USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 returned to the North Arabian Sea today, to resume combat missions supporting Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) following a port visit in the Arabian Gulf.

Aircrews provide close air support and reconnaissance to coalition forces in Afghanistan, launching from the deck of Nimitz hundreds of miles away.

"After nearly 3 months on station, this air wing continues to hone our skills to deliver effective support to our coalition partners on the ground," said Capt. Bret Batchelder, commander, CVW 11, "although, nothing about this mission out here is routine".

CVW 11 aviators work closely with embarked Army ground liaison officers here and air controllers on the ground in Afghanistan to deliver precision support to counter-insurgency operations.

They are all guided by the tactical directive instituted in July by Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, commander of coalition forces in Afghanistan, which places limitations on the use of force that could result in civilian casualties.

Since entering the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations Sep. 18., CVW 11 has flown more than 1,450 sorties and totaled more than 8,500 cumulative flight hours in support of OEF.

Nimitz provides 30 percent of the close air support to the coalition force in Afghanistan.

Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of USS Nimitz, embarked CVW 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.

Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.

Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge.

(Report from a USS Nimitz Public Affairs news release.)

Gen. Petraeus With USS Nimitz for Thanksgiving

Gen. David H. Petraeus, Commander, U.S. Central Command speaks with sailors during an all hands call aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. Nimitz and embarked Carrier Air Wing 11 are currently deployed to the Central Command area of responsibility. (Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Bryan Niegel.)

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USS NIMITZ, Gulf of Oman, Nov. 26, 2009 -- The commander of U.S. Central Command celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday at sea Nov. 26 with the crew of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68).

Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, the four-star general responsible for U.S. operations in 20 countries from Egypt, to Central Asia and the entire Middle East, joined the crew at the mid-point of her 8-month Western Pacific deployment operating in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan.

"It's a unique American holiday," Petraeus said. "And to spend it on a unique piece of American turf – a ship that no other country can match – really makes it an enjoyable and memorable experience."

Minutes after arrival, Petraeus worked his way down ladder wells and through passageways to conduct re-enlistments and present awards to Nimitz sailors in the ship's forecastle.

Petraeus also had the opportunity to see flight operations from the aviators' perspective when he stepped into an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 with Capt. Scott Conn, deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11.

"It really was awesome to experience a bit of that today to have that Top Gun moment," said Petraeus. "To being shot off the deck and make a pretty quick landing and see again the extraordinary work that you do."

Petraeus took a helo over to visit sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102). Returning to Nimitz, Petraeus carved a turkey for Nimitz crew members for a memorable Thanksgiving dinner.

In addition to 1,000 pounds of traditional Thanksgiving turkeys, Nimitz' food service team served up 600 pounds of ham, 15 roasted pigs, roast-steamship rounds of beef, broiled lobster, and 150 one gallon cans of cranberry sauce.

"We brought the turkeys on board prior to leaving San Diego," said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Kristopher Freyberg. "We wanted to make sure that was the first thing we had since we knew we would be planning for the holidays. We loaded the entire pig on outside of Hawaii, and aside from that, we've been taking it on during replenishment-at-sea little by little."

The day ended with an all hand's call, where Petraeus addressed the entire crew wanting the sailors deployed out here to know just how valuable they are.

"Each and every person that wears our country's uniform is indeed, in a sense, 'An Army of One,' or a sailor of one," said Petraeus. "Each of us has enormous intrinsic worth and can be the most important person in the life of a fellow sailor or others with whom we work."

Petraeus expressed thanks and gratitude for the job Nimitz sailors are doing in support of U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan.

"I'm so thankful to be out here with over 4,000 great Americans who are engaged in important missions and working together to accomplish them," said Petraeus. "There's no greater source of energy than the 4,000 plus members of the crew and air wing that are on one of these great ships."

CVW-11 provides 30 percent of the close air support to coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan. Since Nimitz arrived in 5th Fleet area of operations, Sept. 18, more than 1,450 sorties have been flown in support of OEF.

Nimitz CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of USS Nimitz, embarked Carrier Air Wing 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.

Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.

Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10).

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class J.D. Levite, USS Nimitz Public Affairs.)

USS Bataan Celebrates Thanksgiving On Way Home From 7-Month Deployment

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY In this Nov. 6, 2009 file photo, an MV-22B Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5). The aircraft were flown to Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, where they will be transferred to VMM-261 and used to support the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade. This is the first time the aircraft will be used in Afghanistan. The 22nd MEU is serving as the theater reserve force for U.S. Central Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Julio Rivera.)

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USS BATAAN, At Sea, Nov. 26, 2009 -- Nearly 2,500 sailors aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and embarked Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday Nov. 26 on their way home from a seven-month deployment.

Although Bataan sailors are underway and don't have the opportunity to share a meal with their families on this special day, the reasons to be thankful are a virtual cornucopia.

"We've been given an opportunity today to give thanks for one another, and the people we've become," said Capt. Sam Howard, Bataan's commanding officer. "We can recognize that we are woven together and can enjoy the strength that we have gained from one another…Happy Thanksgiving, shipmates."

Crew members spent the holiday participating in a 5K "Turkey Trot" on the flight deck, enjoying a Native American heritage celebration on the mess decks and feasting on a traditional ham and turkey dinner, before relaxing by watching football courtesy of Direct to sailor (DTS) and the Armed Forces Network (AFN) and enjoying a day-long marathon of the pop-culture favorite "A Christmas Story" played over the ship's closed-circuit television.

"The celebration that Bataan put on was a great way to bring a little bit of home while we're underway," said Logistics Specialist Seaman Recruit Tyler Stringer. "It was amazing the way the supply department came out and got everything put together for the crew."

Preparations for the Thanksgiving meal began days before and continued through Thursday. All in all, Bataan's culinary specialists prepared more than 1,400 pounds of turkey, 450 pounds of ham, three whole pigs and more than 200 pies.

"When it comes to special meals like Thanksgiving, we put a lot of thought into the process. We focus on what we're going to prepare for the crew and make sure we have enough portions," said Chief Culinary Specialist Karlene Henri. "The holiday time is when people start missing home, so we try to put out the best meal because we want it to feel a little more like home."

Bataan left her homeport of Norfolk, Va., May 13 to conduct Maritime Security Operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. She served as the flagship of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which also includes the amphibious transport dock USS Ponce (LPD 15) and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43).

Bataan is the fifth ship of the Navy's Wasp-class ships. She was commissioned Sept. 20, 1997, and is the second U.S. Navy warship to bear the name. USS Bataan (CVL-29) was an Independence-class light aircraft carrier that was commissioned in November 1943. After serving in both World War II and the Korean conflict, CVL-29 was decommissioned in 1954.

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Steinhour, USS Bataan Public Affairs.)

George Washington Carrier Strike Group Returns From Fall Deployment

PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 18, 2009) Lt. Cmdr. Jason Bartholomew and Lt. Louis Krueper give the signal to launch an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is underway supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Reann Mommsen.)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 18, 2009) An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Warlords of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 51, conducts flight operations near the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is underway supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Marcus D. Mince.)

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USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2009 -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG) returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, Nov. 23, completing its second fall deployment since joining the Forward-Deployed Naval Forces last year.

During the deployment, the carrier strike group participated in two major bilateral exercises with forces from the Republic of Korea (ROK) and Japan.

The first, a bilateral exercise with the ROK Navy, focused on advanced combined training to build cooperation and interoperability between both navies in the event of a crisis. Embarked ROK Navy liaison officers and Sailors worked alongside GW Sailors on board focusing on enhancing coordination to expand and improve future readiness. Personnel from the ROK Navy's Task Force 51 were also able to work with their counterparts from the GW CSG's Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. Also during that exercise, GW hosted members of the ROK National Defence Committee and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jung Ok-Keun for a visit during flight operations.

The GW CSG also participated in Annual Exercise 21G (ANNUALEX) November 10-17. ANNUALEX is the largest annual bilateral exercise between Japanese and U.S. forces.

"The 5,000 men and women that comprise the George Washington/Carrier Air Wing 5 team are extremely excited to return to our respective homes of Yokosuka and Atsugi," said GW's Commanding Officer Capt. David A. Lausman. "During the fall patrol, we continued to exercise and hone our warfighting skills to remain the Navy's Permanently Forward Deployed Carrier Strike Group.

"Additionally, during this patrol we participated in ANNUALEX 21G with the Joint Maritime Self Defense Force where we exercised our communications and equipment interoperability with our command units. The high degree of interoperability and professionalism we share continues to make this alliance strong and ready to respond to any situation."

The Commander of Carrier Airwing 5, Capt Ross Myers echoed that sentiment when discussing CVW-5 participation in ANNUALEX 21 G.

"We learn valuable lessons working with each other, which allows us to operate at our full potential during a time of conflict," said Myers. "Having Japan Air Self Defense Force pilots on board helps us gain a greater understanding of each other's capabilities."

Embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 completed nearly 500 aircraft launch and recovery cycles during the seven-day event alone, a tempo that was nearly a hundred sorties more than a typical week of flying. In total, the carrier flew more than 1,000 sorties in the last month of the deployment.

"One of the reasons GW operates from Japan is to aid in their defense," said GW's Operations Officer Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "Through exercises like ANNUALEX, our countries can learn from each other and operate better as a team."

While fostering cultural and working relations with other countries, GW continued maintaining mission readiness with 26 simulated fire, emergency and medical drills.

As part of the GW Engineering Department's Repair division, Hull Maintenance Technician Fireman Apprentice Sara Bingham participated in every drill as a member of a fire party hose team during her first deployment.

"I like the fast pace. It's exciting to me," said Bingham regarding GW's high operational tempo.
Though she has only been in the Navy since January, Bingham feels honored to share in the GW's responsibility as "America's 911" force.

GW steamed nearly 14,500 nautical miles, prepared more than 825,000 meals, flew more than 2,000 sorties and expended 154.2 tons of ordnance during its 48-day fall patrol in support of the nation's maritime strategy.

Also during the deployment, the carrier and made its first visit to Hong Kong. More than 300 Sailors participated in 14 community service projects ranging from visits to disabled and retirement homes to volunteering at distribution centers and schools.

The GW CSG, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan, is comprised of GW, CVW-5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, and the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63). GW, commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, is scheduled to begin its second Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) in Yokosuka, Japan, this winter.

(Report by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Carlos Gomez, USS George Washington Public Affairs.)

Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Enters 5th Fleet

SAN DIEGO (Sept. 24, 2009) In this file photo, tug boats guide the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) as she turns into San Diego Bay. Bonhomme Richard and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit departed on a regularly scheduled western Pacific deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John J. Siller.)

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INDIAN OCEAN, Nov. 18, 2009 -- After transiting the western Pacific Ocean, the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOR) this week to relieve the USS Bataan (LHD 5) ARG.

While deployed to the region, Sailors and Marines from the Bonhomme Richard ARG and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) will conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO), which help set conditions for security and promote regional stability and global prosperity.

“We’ve been training for the MSO mission in this region for quite some time,” said Capt. Rodney Clark, the ARG’s commodore. “We’re ready to execute when tasked.”

While transiting the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR, the Bonhomme Richard ARG – 11th MEU team participated in humanitarian projects during Marine Exercise 2009, sending Sailors and Marines ashore in Indonesia and Timor-Leste to provide medical and dental care to more than 2,000 patients in cooperation with local healthcare officials.

Sailors and Marines also volunteered in more than a dozen community service projects during four port visits to the area. Projects ranged from cleaning kennels at an animal shelter in Guam, to repairing playground structures in Phuket, Thailand, and spending quality time with orphan children in Dili, Timor-Leste.

Maritime Security Operations develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists’ use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG consists of three ships – amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7), and amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47).

In addition, the ARG includes the command element, Amphibious Squadron 7; Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Detachment 1; Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Detachment 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.

(Report from Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs.)

Video: Dedication of F4U Corsair to USS Midway on Veteran's Day 2009, Part 2

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of a dedication of an F4U Corsair aircraft to the USS Midway on Veteran's Day 2009 in San Diego, California with Marines. Scenes include the crowds on the ship, the Corsair, the flag detail and activities. Part 2 of 2. (Video by Gunnery Sgt. Steven Williams, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Length: 00:06:53.)

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Video: Dedication of F4U Corsair to USS Midway on Veteran's Day 2009, Part 1

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of a dedication of an F4U Corsair aircraft to the USS Midway on Veteran's Day 2009 in San Diego, California with Marines. Scenes include the crowds on the ship, the Corsair, the flag detail and activities. Part 1 of 2. (Video by Gunnery Sgt. Steven Williams, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Length: 00:10:55.)

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USS New York Officially Commissioned

USS New York is commissioned in New York, Nov. 7, 2009. The Navy ship was named in honor of the courage displayed by New York City's residents during and after 9/11. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Dan Meaney.)

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2009 -- A new Navy ship named in honor of the courage displayed by New York City’s residents during and after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks received its official commission today.

The USS New York recalls “the searing memories of Sept. 11” as well as “the bravery of the rescuers, the resolve of the survivors, the compassion of this city and the patriotism of this great country,” Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said during the ship’s commissioning ceremony at New York City harbor. Clinton was a member of the U.S. Senate representing New York state during 9/11.

Part of the bow, or front, of the new ship, Clinton said, is constructed of 7.5 tons of melted-down steel taken from the wreckage of the World Trade Center’s twin towers that were destroyed during the terrorist attacks.

The motto of the USS New York, Clinton said, is “Strength Forged through Sacrifice: Never Forget.”

No one “will ever forget the image of twisted girders and shattered beams looming above the smoldering pile” of wreckage, Clinton said.

The USS New York is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship. It was christened March 1 in a New Orleans’ shipyard by Dotty England, the ship’s sponsor and wife of former Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon England.

The USS New York and its crew, Clinton said, will join in the fight against terrorism and extremism and also perform humanitarian missions worldwide.

The new ship’s first commander is Navy Cmdr. F. Curtis Jones, a native of Binghamton, N.Y. The vessel has a crew of more than 350 sailors and can transport a landing force of 800 Marines and their equipment.

Clinton was accompanied at the ceremony by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus; Navy Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations; Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James T. Conway; and other senior officials.

Mabus hailed the USS New York as “a visible testament to our resilience, to the character of this city, to the strength of this country.”

The 9/11 attacks, Mabus said, failed to destroy neither America’s spirit nor its resolve to defeat worldwide extremism.

“And, that’s what this ship represents,” he said.

Mabus saluted the men and women who comprise the New York’s crew.

“The nation and our Navy are incredibly proud of you and all that you have done to prepare the New York for her operational life,” Mabus said of the ship’s crew. “You have begun to shape the spirit and the soul of this ship, just as surely as the builders laid the keel, placed the engines, [and] installed the weapons.”

The New York and her sailors and Marines are now “ready to sail in harm’s way, on any point on any of the world’s oceans, to prevent conflict, when possible, and to win decisively, when necessary,” Roughead said.

The U.S. flag that waves above the New York’s decks, Roughead said, serves “as a symbol and a message of freedom, of commitment and of resolve.”

As the New York embarks on her maiden voyage, Conway said, the warship “will carry the spirit, the determination, and the defiance that has always been America.”

And, though terrorists attacked the American homeland eight years ago, they “will not change who we are or what we believe,” Conway vowed.

(Report by Gerry J. Gilmore, American Forces Press Service.)

Video: Delta 2 Launch at Vandenberg

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2009 -- Embedded above is a video package of Vandenberg Air Force Apace Command successfully launching a Delta-2 Rocket from Space Launch Complex-2. (Produced by Senior Airman Ted Froats, 30th Space Wing. Length: 00:01:00.)

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Video: Aboard USS New York, Part 4

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of activities on board USS New York. Scenes include helicopters taking off and landing on USS New York, a Landing Craft, Air-Cushioned (LCAC) approaching USS New York and views of the sailors working on the bridge. Part 4 of 4. (Courtesy Video, Naval Media Center. Length: 00:006:41.)

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Video: Aboard USS New York, Part 3

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of activities on board USS New York. Scenes include helicopters taking off and landing on USS New York, a Landing Craft, Air-Cushioned (LCAC) approaching USS New York and views of the sailors working on the bridge. Part 3 of 4. (Courtesy Video, Naval Media Center. Length: 00:006:52.)

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Combat Camera Video: CV-22 Osprey Film Shoots Footage, Part 1

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2009 -- Embedded above is a b-roll video of prime cuts from the CODEL and Emerald Warrior film shoots. Scenes include the Osprey taking off, in flight, landing, flight line personnel working, and fast roping. Part 1 of 2. (Courtesy Video, 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs. Length: 00:05:44.)

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Navy Set to Commission Amphibious Transport Dock Ship USS New York

NEW YORK (Nov. 2, 2009) Marines assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force 26 and sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) New York (LPD 21) man the rails as the ship arrives in New York. The ship has 7.5 tons of steel from the World Trade Center in her bow and will be commissioned Nov. 7 in New York City. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jesse Johnson.)

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2009 -- The Navy will commission the newest San Antonio class amphibious transport dock ship New York (LPD 21), during an 11 a.m. EST ceremony Nov. 7, 2009, in New York City.

The ship is named New York in honor of the state and the courage and heroism of New Yorkers during and after the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. A unique characteristic of the ship is the use of 7.5 tons of steel salvaged from the World Trade Center wreckage that was incorporated into the construction process. The steel was melted and formed to make the bow stem of the ship. Use of this steel symbolizes the spirit and resiliency of the people of New York. The ship's motto is "Strength forged through sacrifice. Never forget."

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead, will also deliver remarks. Dotty England, wife of former secretary of the Navy and former Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England, is serving as the ship's sponsor. In a time-honored Navy tradition, she will give the order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"

Designated as LPD 21, New York is the fifth amphibious transport dock ship in the San Antonio class. Four previous ships have been named New York. The first, a gondola that served in 1776; the second, a frigate that served 1800-1814; the third, an armored cruiser that served 1893-1938; and the fourth, a battleship that served 1914-1946.

As a critical element in future expeditionary strike groups, the ship will support the Marine Corps' "mobility triad," which consists of the landing craft air cushion (LCAC), the expeditionary fighting vehicle (EFV) and the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft (MV-22). The ship will provide improved warfighting capabilities including an advanced command-and-control suite, increased lift-capability in vehicle and cargo-carrying capacity and advanced ship-survivability features.

Cmdr. F. Curtis Jones, a native of Binghamton, N.Y., is the first commanding officer of the ship, leading a crew of approximately 360 officers and enlisted personnel. The ship is capable of embarking a landing force of up to 800 Marines. Upon commissioning, New York will be homeported in Norfolk, Va., as a part of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.

Built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Avondale Operations in Louisiana, New York is 684 feet in length, has an overall beam of 105 feet, a navigational draft of 23 feet and displaces about 24,900 tons. Four turbo-charged diesel engines power the ship to sustained speeds of 24 knots.

(Report from a U.S. Defense Department news release.)