News from the Fleet - 2012 
More news at our Navy News Stand
Warrior Transition Program Facility Opens in Germany
SEMBACH, DE –The Navy celebrated the opening of the newly relocated Warrior Transition Program (WTP) facility with a ribbon cutting ceremony by Rear Adm. Kevin D. Scott, commander, Task-Force Individual Augmentee (IA), Dec. 12.
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USS Winston S. Churchill Participates in Lucky Mariner 2013
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILTY – Guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) escorted commercial shipping Dec. 11 during the combined merchant and naval exercise Lucky Mariner 2013 (LM13).
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Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Visits Stennis on USO Holiday Tour
USS JOHN C STENNIS, At Sea (Dec. 13, 2012) – The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Dec. 13 as part of a USO Holiday Tour.
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Wasting Away
USS JOHN C STENNIS, At Sea – Trash is compiled from all spaces throughout the ship, and it stacks up rapidly; but there are certain Sailors responsible for processing it.
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Industry And U.S. Navy Practice Convoy During Exercise
BAHRAIN – Energy industry tankers and U.S. Navy and United Kingdom navy ships coordinated maneuvers during a practice convoy for exercise Lucky Mariner 13, held Dec. 7-11, both at sea and at shore-based communication centers.
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Jason Dunham Gives Medical Aid to Pakistani Mariner
ARABIAN SEA (Dec. 5, 2012) – Guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) provided medical assistance to a mariner of a fishing vessel, Dec. 5.
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Rushmore Holds Change Of Command
USS RUSHMORE, At Sea - Amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony held on the ship's flight deck, Dec. 1.
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Sailors, Marines Take Campbell Cup Pull-Up Challenge
USS PELELIU, At Sea - Sailors and Marines aboard amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) competed in a pull-up challenge as part of the Campbell Cup tournament, Nov. 24.
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ESG-5 Commander Visits Peleliu
USS PELELIU, At Sea - Rear Adm. William K. Lescher, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group Five (ESG-5), embarked aboard amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) to observe ship operations from Nov. 25 to Dec. 5.
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NAVCENT and CFACC Visit USS John C. Stennis
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY -- Senior officers from U.S. Central Command embarked aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), to meet with the leadership and crew, Nov. 30.
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U.S., Kuwaiti Forces Wrap Up Exercise Eager Mace
CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – Leadership from Battalion Landing Team 3/5 (BLT 3/5), 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and Kuwait Armed Forces took part in a closing ceremony for exercise Eager Mace 13 at Kuwait Naval Base, Nov. 21.
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Stennis Strike Group Departs Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain– The John C. Stennis Strike Group (JCSSG) departed the Kingdom of Bahrain, after a port visit, Nov. 24.
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Benfold Leads Joint MCM Defense Exercise
U.S. 5 TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY – Guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) partnered with Commander, Task Force (CTF) 52 and CTF 55 to conduct five days of mine countermeasures (MCM) operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
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ESG-5 Celebrates Thanksgiving with USS Green Bay Crew
5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Nov. 24, 2012) – Amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) celebrated this year’s Thanksgiving feast on the mess decks with Rear Adm. William Lescher, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, Nov. 24.
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Puma AE: “Eye in the Sky”
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain – High over head, rain or shine, an elusive, yet sophisticated surveillance equipment flies in areas that are difficult to see with the naked eye.
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Master Chief Petty Officer Of The Navy Visits 5th Fleet
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - Master Chief Petty Office of the Navy (MCPON) Mike D. Stevens visited Naval Support Activity (NSA), Bahrain and other local commands, Nov. 18-23 to meet Sailors, access the quality of life in the region, address any concerns and discuss his ‘Zeroing in on Excellence’ initiative.
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CNO Visits USS Rushmore
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY -- The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) and his wife Darleen visited Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47), Nov. 20, while underway in the Arabian Gulf.
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Expeditionary Marines Celebrate Corps’ Birthday at Sea
USS PELELIU – Marines around the world, from forward operating bases in Afghanistan to garrison units in the United States, took time to honor the history and legacy of their service in celebration of the 237th birthday of their illustrious corps, Nov. 10.
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Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 57 Changes Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain – Capt. Mark A. Creasey relieved Capt. Reggie Howard as commander, Task Force (CTF) 57 during a change of command ceremony, Nov. 8.
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Warrior Transition Program Moves To Support Sailors
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain -- The Warrior Transition Program (WTP) is moving its operations from Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, to Sembach Kaserne in Kaiserslautern, Germany.
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CTF-57 Supports Halloween 3K Fun Run
MANAMA, Bahrain – Commander, Task Force (CTF) 57 “Desert Sharks” turned out in force to participate in Naval Support Activity Bahrain’s Halloween 3k Fun Run, Oct 31.
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EODMU 3 Visits Mobile Bay
ARABIAN SEA – Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians visited Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) Oct. 30 to provide the crew information about special operating programs.
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NAVCENT FCPOA Recognizes Junior Sailors
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) selected the first recipient of a Book Scholarship, Nov. 1.
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CTF-55 Conducts Force Interoperability Training
MANAMA, Bahrain – Commander, Task Force (CTF) 55 conducted force interoperability training in the Arabian Gulf, Oct. 21-26.
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NAVCENT Announces Junior Sailor Of The Year
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain – Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Dalyn Padilla was selected as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Sailor of the Year, Oct. 25.
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NAVCENT Selects 2012 Bluejacket Of The Year
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) announced its 2012 Bluejacket of the Year (BJOY), Oct. 25.
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Iwo Jima, First Amphib Deployed with Mental Health Clinical Social Worker
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – As the Navy’s operational tempo continues to increase, the amount of stress on Sailors can rise. During deployment, that stress is even greater as Sailors juggle long hours, shipboard life and concerns for families back home.
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USS Iwo Jima Offers Parenting, Communication Classes
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea– The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) started a series of parenting classes to help equip Sailors and Marines with skills to successfully communicate with their children, Oct. 24.
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USS New York Reaches 100 Percent Dental Readiness
USS NEW YORK, At Sea – The health services department aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) reached a milestone during the ship’s maiden deployment with a 100 percent dental readiness, Oct. 30.
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Peleliu ARG Arrives In U.S. 5th Fleet
INDIAN OCEAN -- The Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, Oct. 30.
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Marines Aboard Gunston Hall Run Marine Corps Marathon Forward
USS GUNSTON HALL, At Sea -- Five Marines, assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) participated in the 37th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) through the MCM Forward program, Oct. 27.
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USS Ponce Rescues Bahraini Fishermen In Gulf Hail Storm
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain -- Seven Bahraini fishermen foundering in their boats amid a hailstorm were rescued by Afloat Forward Staging Base(Interim) USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) off the coast of Bahrain, Oct. 29.
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Stennis CSG Commander Reassigned Pending Investigation
FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. -- The Navy has approved a request today by Vice Adm. John W. Miller, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command to temporarily reassign the commander of the USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group.
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U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Civil Affairs Teams Work Together
MANAMA, Bahrain – Navy and Marine Corps civil affairs teams joined forces for the first time while conducting a humanitarian assistance mission in Budaiya and Isa Town, Bahrain, Oct. 18-19.
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Cultural Exchange Continues At University of Bahrain’s American Studies Center
ISA TOWN, Bahrain – U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), conducted a community relations event with the University of Bahrain’s American Studies Center (ASC), Oct. 23.
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Jason Dunham’s First CMC Departs
MANAMA, Bahrain (Oct. 17, 2012) – Guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), serving on her maiden deployment, bid farewell to one of the ship’s plank owners with the departure of Command Master Chief (SS/SW) Raymond Chamberlain, while in port Manama, Bahrain, Oct. 17.
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Jason Dunham Departs Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain (Oct. 18, 2012) – Guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) departed Manama, Bahrain after a port visit, Oct. 18.
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Stennis Strike Group Enters U.S. Fifth Fleet
AT SEA -- The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG), entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), Oct. 17.
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NSA Bahrain Holds 237th Navy Birthday Ball
MANAMA, Bahrain – Desert sands turned to pearls as personnel of the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain community donned their formal best to celebrate the U.S. Navy’s 237th birthday, at the Navy Ball, Oct 12.
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Enterprise Transits the Suez Canal for the Final Time
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) has been the first to do a lot of things. The “Big E” was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and the first carrier to respond to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
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PHIBRON 8 on “Operating Forward” with Diversity
Hello from 5th fleet!
Throughout my naval career I have had the privilege to fly helicopters, command squadrons, travel the world and serve my country. It was an absolute honor to earn the title of Commodore for Amphibious Squadron 8 this past May. One thing that I have realized quickly is that, although I may have flown demanding missions during Operation Desert Storm and have been incredibly challenged throughout multiple aspects of my career, serving aboard USS Iwo Jima in 5th fleet during such a critical time is no easy task. This area of the world has been full of new, complex experiences, and has definitely redefined me as a naval officer.
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Enterprise Strike Group Admiral's Blog: Returns Home
When the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group got underway earlier this year, I had three priorities in mind. First, bring everyone home safely. Second, return home with all our equipment in the same or better condition than when we left. Third, every Sailor and Marine does their duty every day to the best of their abilities.
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USS Porter Underway With Enterprise Carrier Strike Group
USS PORTER, At Sea – When guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and the rest of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group departed Norfolk, Va., March 11, they were prepared for their deployment.
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Navy Senior Chief Builds Toy Boxes, Self-Esteem For Kids At Orphanage
MANAS, Kyrgyzstan -- U.S. Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Michael Cook is faced with a dilemma. He is constructing wooden toy boxes outside the Theater Security Cooperation tent at the Transit Center at Manas for needy kids. Surveying his handiwork, Cook is considering installing hinged lids to the boxes but is concerned that the lids might potentially slam onto the children's fingers.
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Master Chief DeLozier Relieves Master Chief Clarke As 5th Fleet CMC
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain -- U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) bid farewell to U.S. 5th Fleet Command Master Chief (SW/AW/IDW) Charles Clarke at an all-hands call, Oct. 4.
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THE REPUBLIC OF SEYCHELLES JOINS COMBINED MARITIME FORCES
MANAMA, Bahrain -- The Republic of Seychelles has announced its agreement to join Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) making it the 27th country to join this professional capable and alert force across 5 continents.
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Iraq, Kuwait and US Conduct Security Exercise
U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY – The Iraqi Navy, Kuwaiti Coast Guard and U.S. Coast Guard conducted their first trilateral theater security exercise in more than seven years, Sept. 29.
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Expeditionary Strike Group Five Awards Iwo Jima Sailors
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – During a visit to multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Expeditionary Strike Group Five (ESG 5) commander Rear Adm. William K. Lescher recognized exceptional crew members for their performance during deployment on Sept. 24.
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Iwo Jima Prepares for Green “H” Award
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea – The medical department aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) is making final preparations for the Green “H” award submissions due navy-wide Jan. 15, 2013.
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Maritime Civil Affairs Team Volunteers at Bahrain Special Needs School
ADLIYA, Bahrain – U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Maritime Civil Affairs Team (MCAT) 105 participated in a community relations (COMREL) event at the Regional Institute for Active Learning (RIA) center, Sept. 19.
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NAVCENT Announces Bluejacket of the 4th Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Culinary Specialist Seaman Mariechen Bezuidenhout was selected as the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Bluejacket of the Quarter, 4th Quarter 2012.
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NAVCENT Announces Junior Sailor of the Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Dong Ruan was selected as the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Junior Sailor of the Quarter (JSOQ), Sept. 27.
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NAVCENT Announces Senior Sailor of the Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Yeoman 1st Class Denise Hernandez was selected as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Senior Sailor of the Quarter (SSOQ), Sept. 27.
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IMCMEX12 Military Exercise Concludes
MANAMA, Bahrain - International Mine Countermeasures Exercise 2012 (IMCMEX12) concluded at U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Sept. 27, after two weeks of seminars and training operations.
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Benfold Sailors Support Wounded Warrior Project
ARABIAN GULF- Guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) conducted the first Benfold 100 Cable Run in support of the Wounded Warrior Project, Sept. 21.
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Canadian Divers Embark Mine Countermeasures Ship
U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY - Canadian Divers from Fleet Dive Unit, Atlantic, embarked mine countermeasures ship USS Warrior (MCM 10), for phase two of the International Mine Countermeasures Exercise 2012 (IMCMEX 12), Sept. 20-26.
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Vicksburg Sailors Practice Firearms Safety
USS VICKSBURG, At Sea U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to the Grandmasters of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 46, and the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) conducted training in firearms safety and familiarization, Sept. 21.
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Gunston Hall Participates In IMCMEX 12
USS GUNSTON HALL, At Sea - Amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) is participating in the International Mine Countermeasures Exercise 2012 (IMCMEX 12) while operating in the Gulf of Aden, Sept. 16-27.
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MSRON 11 Adopts Porter Sailors Following Collision
ARABIAN GULF Reserve Sailors from Seal Beach, Calif. based Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 11 have been working to assist the crew of guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) since the ships collision with a Japanese vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, Aug. 12.
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Winston S. Churchill Conducts Mass Casualty Drill with ERSS
GULF OF ADEN - A team of medical officers and hospital corpsmen assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical System (ERSS) held a mass casualty drill aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), Sept. 13.
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USS Ponce Showcases Capabilities During IMCMEX 12
MANAMA, Bahrain - The U.S. Navy's first Afloat Forward Staging Base (Interim) USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15), will showcase its much anticipated capabilities in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) during International Mine Countermeasures Exercise 2012 (IMCMEX 12), Sept. 16-27.
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Churchill Sailors Translate for Counter-Piracy Exercise
GULF OF ADEN Three U.S. Navy Sailors from guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) used their language skills to contribute to the success of the first bilateral counter-piracy exercise ever conducted between the U.S. and China near the Horn of Africa, Sept. 17.
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Benfold Sailors Train with Soldiers
ARABIAN GULF - Guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) conducted joint exercises with Army aviators from the 1-126th Assault Helicopter Battalion and the 3-159th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, Aug. 21.
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Benfold Engineering Department Repairs Turbine Generator
ARABIAN GULF Guided-missile Destroyer USS Benfolds (DDG 65) Engineering department celebrated the success of repairing one of the ships gas turbine generators.
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US and China Team Up for Counter-Piracy Exercise
GULF OF ADEN - Guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) and other U.S. Navy assets participated in a counter-piracy exercise with elements of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (Navy) PLA(N) near the Horn of Africa, Sept. 17.
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NAVCENT Hosts King Of Bahrain
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces, Vice Adm. John Miller hosted the King of Bahrain, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, during a visit, Sept. 12.
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IKE Pins New Chiefs
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY Aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), also referred to as IKE, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 and Commander, Carrier Strike Group Eight, advanced 51 Sailors to the rank of chief petty officer (CPO) during a chief pinning ceremony, Sept. 14.
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IMCMEX 12, Largest Mine Countermeasure Exercise In Middle East, Begins
MANAMA, Bahrain - Navies from six continents and more than 30 nations kick off the most widely attended international exercise ever held in the region here, Sept. 16.
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Expeditionary Strike Group Five Visits Iwo Jima
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) hosted newly appointed Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group Five (ESG 5) Rear Adm. William K. Lescher Sept. 7-9.
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James E. Williams Remembers 9/11
USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea On Sept. 11, 2001, people around the world watched in shock and horror as the television showed people jumping and falling from the World Trade Center Buildings as plumes of smoke rose and debris smothered downtown New York City.
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IKE Sailors Lift Spirits At Philippine Womens Shelter While In Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain - U.S. Navy Sailors aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), also known as Ike, volunteered at a womens shelter for Philippine nationals during a port visit to Manama, Bahrain, Sept. 1.
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IKE Recognizes National Suicide Prevention Week
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (Sept. 9, 2012) - The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) has events scheduled to promote suicide prevention and raise awareness on methods people can take to get help during the National Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 9-15.
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IKE Sailors Conduct COMREL at Bahrain Mobility Institute
MANAMA, Bahrain U.S. Navy Sailors from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) also known as IKE, assisted in the renovation of a facility for the disabled during a community relations (COMREL) project, Sept. 2.
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THE BIG THREE ANTI-PIRACY TASK FORCES URGE SHIP OWNERS TO KEEP UP THEIR GUARD
Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151), NATO and European Union Naval Force Somalia - Operation Atalanta (the big three) call upon the shipping industry to continue to take anti-piracy measures despite the current downward trend in piracy events.
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USS Ponce: Refit, Reclassified, and Ready
USS Ponce, At Sea Afloat Forward Staging Base (Interim) USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) continues to support military operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), Aug. 27.
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USS Vicksburg Completes Bahrain Port Visit
MANAMA, Bahrain - Guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) departed Bahrain Aug. 24 following a regularly-scheduled port visit. ![]()

O'Kane Sailors Offer Assistance to Porter
USS O'KANE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from guided-missile destroyer USS O'Kane (DDG 77) are assisting the crew of guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) to recover from damage sustained in a collision with a large Japanese-owned merchant vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, Aug. 12. ![]()

NAVCENT Commander Visits Baghdad
BAGHDAD - Vice Adm. John W. Miller, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/Fifth Fleet (C5F)/Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) commander, visited Baghdad as part of a familiarization visit, Aug. 27. During his stay, he met with a number of officials at the U.S. Embassy-Baghdad, the Embassy Military Attach Security Assistance Annex, and the Iraqi Ministry of Defense. ![]()

No Injuries in MH-53 Helicopter Hard Landing
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- No one was injured when an MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 made a hard landing Aug. 22, following an engine malfunction. ![]()

Expeditionary Strike Group 5 Change Of Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - Rear Adm. William K. Lescher relieved Rear Adm. Peter J. Fanta as commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5 during a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Aug. 26. ![]()

USS Winston S. Churchill Aids M/V Belde
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - Guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) rendered medical assistance to Panamanian-flagged, bulk carrier M/V Belde, Aug. 20, approximately 110 miles north of Socotra Island, Yemen. ![]()

USO Hosts Barbecue For Porter And OKane Sailors
U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY The USO in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, hosted a barbecue for Sailors assigned to guided-missile destroyers USS Porter (DDG 78) and USS O'Kane (DDG 77), Aug. 16. ![]()

Commander, NATO Task Force 508 Visits USS Taylor
GULF OF ADEN - Royal Netherlands Navy Commodore Ben Bekkering, commander, NATO Task Force 508, visited guided-missile frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50) to thank the crew for their service and wish them a safe voyage home, Aug. 9. ![]()

Hue City Aids Distressed Iranian Vessel
ARABIAN SEA - Guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) rendered medical assistance and provided food, water and fuel to an Iranian-flagged dhow, M/V Payam, Aug. 15, approximately 45 miles southeast of Muscat, Oman. ![]()

NAVCENT Launches Final Phase Of Chief Training
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Chiefs at U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) continue to mentor Sailors in the U.S. 5th fleet area of responsibility (AOR), as the final phase of Chiefs in Training (CIT) kicked off, July 31, 2012. ![]()

No injuries in Strait of Hormuz collision: Update
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - No one was hurt Sunday morning when a U.S. Navy guided missile destroyer and a large Japanese owned merchant vessel collided near the Strait of Hormuz. ![]()

Vicksburg Trains Sailors In CPR
ARABIAN SEA - Guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) held cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, July 27. ![]()

No injuries in Strait of Hormuz collision
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - No one was hurt Sunday morning when a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer and a large Japanese owned merchant vessel collided near the Strait of Hormuz. ![]()

USS James E. Williams Transfers Rescued Mariners to Iranian Vessel
USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea - Guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams transferred 10 Iranian mariners rescued from a burning dhow Aug. 8 to an Iranian vessel in the Gulf of Oman Aug. 10. ![]()

Eisenhower, CVW-7 Commence OEF Missions
USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, embarked aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), began flying the first combat sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Aug. 9. ![]()

USS James E. Williams Rescues Iranian Mariners
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - The guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) rescued 10 mariners from their burning vessel in the Gulf of Oman. ![]()

NSA Bahrain Chiefs Mess Begins Training Future Leaders
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain (NNS) -- Vice Adm. Scott Van Buskirk, Chief of Naval Personnel, released the fiscal year 2013 active-duty Navy chief petty officer (CPO) selection board results July 31, marking the beginning of a historical passage for 40 CPO selectees assigned to Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, and tenant commands. ![]()

Dwight D. Eisenhower Hosts Midshipmen
U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY - Ten midshipmen from various Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) programs are participating in a three-week summer training cruise aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). ![]()

AIT 12-07 Augments James E. Williams VBSS team
GULF OF OMAN (NNS) U.S. Coast Guard advanced interdiction team (AIT) 12-07, assigned to the U.S. Coast Guard Deployable Operation Group, embarked guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) to augment the ships visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team, July 26. ![]()

Master Mobile Training Team Provides Training on Sexual Assault Prevention and Response
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain The master mobile training team (MMTT) conducted Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Leadership training for command leaders at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), July 29-30. ![]()

USS NITZE TRAINS WITH HMCS CHARLOTTETOWN
USS NITZE, At Sea U.S. Navy Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) participated in a series of training exercises with Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH 339), July 27. ![]()

FOCUSSED OPERATION AZM-E-AHAN (IRON WILL)
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) conducted a Focussed Operation called Azm-e-Ahan (Iron Will) in the vicinity of Bab el Mandeb Strait, Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden over the period 15 19 July 2012. The Focussed Operation is one of a regular series of maritime security operations conducted in the region by CMF. ![]()

NAVCENT Names Senior Sailor Of The 3rd Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - Electronics Technician 1st Class Max Spriggs III was recognized as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), Senior Sailor of the Quarter for the Third Quarter, July 26. ![]()

NAVCENT Names 2012 Bluejacket Of The 3rd Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class Jake Welch was selected as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), Bluejacket of the Quarter, 3rd Quarter, July 26. ![]()

NAVCENT Announces Junior Sailor Of The Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Dalyn Padilla was selected as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Junior Sailor of the Quarter (JSOQ), 3rd Quarter, July 26. ![]()

MDSU-1 Conducts Survey Of Rogue Buoy
USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea Guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) hosted Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 (MDSU-1), Company 1-5, as they conducted a salvage survey of a mooring buoy found adrift in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, July 18. ![]()

HM-15 Honors Fallen Shipmates
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Friends and service members gathered for a memorial service held aboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, July 23 to honor the lives of two fallen shipmates assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 15, also known as the Blackhawks. ![]()

Update - Two Dead In Oman Helicopter Crash
FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS - Two Sailors were killed when their MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 crashed 58 miles southwest of Muscat, Oman Thursday while conducting heavy lift support operations. ![]()

Enterprise Sailors Visit HMCS Charlottetown
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - Five Sailors from aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) visited Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFG 339) for a scheduled cross-pollination event, July 11. ![]()

Update: MH-53 Helicopter Suffers Aviation Mishap, Crashes
FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 crashed 58 miles southwest of Muscat, Oman Thursday while conducting heavy lift support operations. ![]()

MH-53 Helicopter Suffers Aviation Mishap, Crashes
FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to Helicopter Mine Countermeasure Squadron (HM) 15 crashed 58 miles southwest of Muscat, Oman today while conducting heavy lift support operations. ![]()

Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group Arrives in U.S. 5th Fleet
USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER AT SEA (NNS) -- The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) arrived in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) on July 17. ![]()

USNS Rappahannock Fires After Vessel Ignores Warnings
FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS An embarked security team aboard a U.S. Navy vessel fired upon a small motor vessel after it disregarded warnings and rapidly approached the U.S. ship near Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates today. ![]()

Ponce Arrives In Bahrain
MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain - The U.S. Navys first Afloat Forward Staging Base- Interim USS Ponce (AFSB-I) arrived in Bahrain for duty in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), July 6. ![]()

USS Iwo Jima Celebrates 11th Anniversary At Sea
GULF OF ADEN The crew of amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) marked the 11th anniversary of the ships commissioning with a celebratory meal and cake-cutting, June 30. ![]()

ACU 4 Sailor Among First ESWS Qualifiers aboard New York
ARABIAN SEA Among the three Sailors on board the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) who received their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pins June 25, one in particular stood out from the crowd. ![]()

USS Iwo Jima Defending Freedom And The Right To Vote
GULF OF ADEN - Amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) kicked off its annual Armed Forces and Overseas Citizens Voters Week, June 28. ![]()

Iwo Jima Prepares Sailors For CWO/LDO Selection
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea Chief warrant officers (CWOs) and limited duty officers (LDOs) aboard amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) held a community brief for Sailors interested in the CWO/LDO program, June 10. ![]()

Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia Changes Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Paul Flynn relieved U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Cameron Naron as Commodore, United States Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) during a change of command ceremony, June 21. ![]()

USS New York Rescues Stranded Kuwaiti Jet Skier
ARABIAN SEA (June 24, 2012) Amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) assisted in a search and rescue mission for a Kuwaiti jet skier stranded 15 miles off the coast of Kuwait, June 24. ![]()

Situational Awareness Is Self Defense
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - Personnel in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) are being urged to remain alert of their environment on and off base. ![]()

Cape St. George, Daring Sailors Strengthen Coalition Partnership
USS CAPE ST. GEORGE, Arabian Sea Sailors from guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) took part in a four-day training exercise with the Royal Navy destroyer HMS Daring (D32), that concluded June 7. ![]()

USS Nitze Sailors Participate In Mentorship Program
USS NITZE, At Sea Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) are participating in a mentorship program designed to guide Sailors in personal and professional development. ![]()

DESRON 50 Changes Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Destroyer Squadron Fifty (DESRON 50), held a change of command ceremony, on board Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, June 20, where Capt. Stephen Evans relieved Capt. Edward Cashman as commander, DESRON 50. ![]()

MCMs Arrive In U.S. 5th Fleet
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Four U.S. Navy mine countermeasures (MCM) ships arrived in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations aboard M/V Tern, June 23. ![]()

Milius Repair Division Keeps Ship In The Fight
USS MILIUS, At Sea Repair division Sailors assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) are hard at work keeping the ship fully operational by conducting routine damage control (DC) training, drills and completing planned maintenance throughout the ship. ![]()

FASTCENT Changes Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - U.S. Marine Corps Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team, Central Command (FASTCENT), held a change of command ceremony, June 14. ![]()

Mine Countermeasures Squadron 3 Change of Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Capt. Steven Mucklow relieved Capt. David Chase as commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron (MCMRON) 3 at a change of command ceremony, June 16. ![]()

Patrol Squadron Four Six Grey Knights Assume The Watch
The Grey Knights of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46 assumed the duties as Commander, Task Group (CTF) 57.2, June 7. The Grey Knights relieved the Tridents of VP-26 as the maritime patrol squadron in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility. ![]()

REPUBLIC OF KOREA NAVY ASSUMES COMMAND OF COMBINED TASK FORCE 151
MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain Rear Adm. (Lower Half) Anho Chung, Republic of Korea Navy, relieved Rear Adm. Tanin Likitawong, Royal Thai Navy, as commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 (counter-piracy) during a change of command ceremony aboard British Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fort Victoria at Mina Salman Pier, Bahrain, June 18. ![]()

Another First for USS New York During Maiden Deployment
U.S. FIFTH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS -The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) transited the Strait of Hormuz and entered the Gulf for the first time during her maiden deployment, June 10. ![]()

USS Enterprise Sailor Death
MANAMA, Bahrain A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to USS Enterprise (CVN 65), was found deceased in his berthing compartment on the ship, June 8. ![]()

Vicksburg Sailors Volunteer At Bahrain School
MANAMA, Bahrain U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) volunteered for a community relations (COMREL) event during a port visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, May 23. ![]()

HSM-77 Deploys First MH-60R On British Ship
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea - The Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, Det. 5, completed a two-week embark aboard Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) ship Fort Victoria (A387), May 14. ![]()

Coast Guardsmen Awarded Bronze Stars For Iraq And Afghanistan Service
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - Two Coast Guardsmen, Lt. Cmdr. James B. Suffern and Chief Boatswains Mate Robert T. Holm, were awarded Bronze Star medals, in a ceremony at the U. S. Armys 595th Transportation Brigade Headquarters, in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 22. ![]()

Coast Guardsmen Awarded Bronze Stars For Iraq And Afghanistan Service
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - Two Coast Guardsmen, Lt. Cmdr. James B. Suffern and Chief Boatswains Mate Robert T. Holm, were awarded Bronze Star medals, in a ceremony at the U. S. Armys 595th Transportation Brigade Headquarters, in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 22. ![]()

USS Taylor Renders Assistance To Distressed Yemeni Dhow
GULF OF OMAN - Guided-missile frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50) rendered assistance to a distressed Yemeni fishing dhow experiencing mechanical problems, May 19-21. ![]()

Vicksburg Visits Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain Guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) completed a regularly scheduled port visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, May 28. ![]()

NSA Bahrain Observes Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain Multicultural Committee hosted the 2012 Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month observance at the Beach Club, May 23. ![]()

Vice Adm. Miller Takes Helm Of U.S. Navy In Middle East
KHALIFA BIN SALMAN PORT, Bahrain -- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/Fifth Fleet (C5F)/Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) held a change of command ceremony aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), May 24. ![]()

HM-15 Changes Command
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 15 Blackhawks, held a change of command ceremony on board Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, May 22. ![]()

Bicycle Safety Is No Accident
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Safety comes first when riding your bicycle in Bahrain. ![]()

James E. Williams Celebrates Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month
USS JAMES E. WILLIAMS, At Sea As people across the U.S. recognize the month of May as Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), celebrate and educate the crew on its culture and history. ![]()

VP-26 Tridents Hold Change of Command
MANAMA, Bahrain The Tridents of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 held a change of command ceremony, while deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), May 19. ![]()

Charlottetown Visits Big E
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - Sailors from the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFG 339) arrived aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for a scheduled cross-deck event, May 9. ![]()

Boy Scouts Visit US Ships in Bahrain
MINI SALMAN PIER, Bahrain - Members of Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Troop 1 of Dhahran Saudi Arabia visited four U.S. ships, May 18. ![]()

U.S. Navy Sailor Assigned To NAVCENT Dies In Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) headquarters, died of complications associated with a medical condition, May 20. ![]()

Enterprise Celebrates Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - Sailors and Marines aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65) celebrated Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in the ships hangar bay May 18. ![]()

Stressing Heat Stress
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Its getting hot, hot, hot in Bahrain!
Bahrains summer temperatures can be uncomfortable; they can even be deadly. ![]()

Seabees Construct Joint Operations Center For Exercise Eager Lion 12
AMMAN, Jordan Seabees from the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7 completed construction on a joint operations center May 5 for Exercise Eager Lion 12 on the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center here. ![]()

USS Sampson Changes Command at Sea
GULF OF ADEN Guided-missile destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102) conducted a change of command, while operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), May 9. ![]()

Kuwait Military Officials Visit Abraham Lincoln At Sea
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) Kuwaiti Air Force and U.S. Embassy officials met with USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 leadership aboard the aircraft carrier, May 9. ![]()

CTF 56 Sailor Death Under Investigation
MANAMA, Bahrain A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56, died as a result of a non-combat related incident, May 12. ![]()

Dedication Ceremony Honors Fallen Sailors, Coast Guardsman
MANAMA, Bahrain U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) hosted a ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, in remembrance of the eighth anniversary of the attack on the coastal patrol ship USS Firebolt (PC 10), April 24 ![]()

Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Goes Multinational
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea The French Navy anti-aircraft destroyer Cassard (D 614) and the Royal Navy air defense destroyer HMS Daring (D 32) have been conducting integrated mission training with aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65), and guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), during the month of April. ![]()

Dedication Ceremony Honors Fallen Sailors, Coast Guardsman
MANAMA, Bahrain U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA) hosted a ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Bahrain, in remembrance of the eighth anniversary of the attack on the coastal patrol ship USS Firebolt (PC 10), April 24 ![]()

Vicksburg Conducts Multinational Operations
USS VICKBURG, At Sea (April 16, 2012) Guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69) conducted week-long combined operations with French anti-air destroyer FS Cassard (D 614), April 16-21. ![]()

Makin Island, Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Groups Turnover Duties
USS MAKIN ISLAND, Gulf of Aden The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) were relieved of their duties in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) by the Iwo Jima ARG and the 24th MEU, May 5. ![]()

NAVCENT Announces Junior Sailor of the Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Electronics Technician 2nd Class Li Rong Jian was selected as U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Junior Sailor of the Quarter, April 26. ![]()

NAVCENT Names 2nd Quarter Bluejacket of the Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Yeoman 3rd Class Mercedes Holt was selected as the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Bluejacket of the Quarter, 2nd Quarter 2012. ![]()

Enterprise, CVW-1 Support Operation Enduring Freedom
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea - Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 began flying combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), May 1. ![]()

Enterprise Working to Protect Environment
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea Sailors and Marines assigned to aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) observed Earth Day, April 22. ![]()

Lucky Mariner 2012 Kicks Off In Arabian Gulf
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain In an effort to combat against mining threats in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), personnel from Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS), Military Sealift Command (MSC) and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) came for exercise Lucky Mariner, April 15. ![]()

James E. Williams Focuses on Conservation
ARABIAN GULF As Earth Week kicked off around the world April 22, guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) follows suit with a concerted effort to minimize the ships footprint. ![]()

Porter Sailors Celebrate the Environment
GULF OF ADEN Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) celebrated Earth Day 2012 while deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), April 22. ![]()

Pearl Harbor Plays Hosts to Members of Australian Parliament
USS PEARL HARBOR, At Sea U.S. Sailors and Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) hosted three members of Australias Parliament for a tour aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), April 9. ![]()

PAKISTAN ASSUMES COMMAND OF COUNTER TERRORISM TASK FORCE
Commodore Mukhtar Khan, Pakistan Navy, relieved Commodore Jonathan Mead, Royal Australian Navy, as Commander, Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 (counter-terrorism), during a change of command ceremony onboard PNS Badr, Mina Salman port, Bahrain, April 17. ![]()

USO Sponsored Group Visits Big E
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea The 9th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and celebrity guests visited aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) as part of a United Service Organization (USO) tour, April 17. ![]()

Taylor Participants in Operation Ocean Shield
GULF OF ADEN - Over the past several weeks, guided-missile frigate USS Taylor (FFG 50) and its visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team, have actively patrolled the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) and provided security assistance to several merchant vessels transiting through the Gulf of Aden region. ![]()

Navigating the Suez
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) completed a challenging, yet rewarding, transit of the Suez Canal, April 4. ![]()

Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Arrives in U.S. 5th Fleet
USS ENTERPRISE AT SEA - The worlds first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 12 arrived in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), April 3. ![]()

Cape St. George Commanding Officer Visits HMS Daring
ARABIAN GULF - The commanding officer of guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) visited British Royal Navy destroyer HMS Daring (D32), March 20. ![]()

NAVCENT Celebrates Year of the Chief 2012
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) kicked off The Year of the Chief 2012 by hosting events for the chief petty officers (CPO) birthday, April 1. ![]()

ROYAL THAI NAVY ASSUMES COMMAND OF COMBINED TASK FORCE 151
Rear Admiral Tanin Likitawong, Royal Thai Navy, relieved Commodore Aage Buur Jensen, Royal Danish Navy, as Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, during a change of command ceremony onboard USS Halsey (DDG 97), Muscat, Oman, March 29. ![]()

Milius Holds Unofficial Change Of Command
USS MILIUS, At Sea - A Khaki Auction was held aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) to help raise money for the command Family Readiness Group (FRG), March 23![]()


Pearl Harbor Arrives In Qatar For DIMDEX 2012
DOHA, Qatar Amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) participated in the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX), March 26-28. ![]()

Cape St. George Completes Port Visit to Dubai
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) concluded a four-day port visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 17. ![]()

Makin Island Sailors, Marines Volunteer Time With Children in Bahrain
ADLIYA, Bahrain - Sailors and Marines assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), participated in a community relations (COMREL) project at the Regional Institute for Active Learning (RIA) during a port visit to Bahrain, March 13. ![]()

Navy Leader Visits Bahrain, Discusses 21st Sailor and Marine Initiative
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Juan M. Garcia III, highlighted the importance of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative while visiting service members stationed at Naval Support Activity (NSA), Bahrain, March 21. ![]()

Chief of Navy Reserve Visits NSA Bahrain
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain The Chief of Navy Reserve and Navy Reserve Force Master Chief spoke to Sailors during an all hands call held onboard Naval Support Activity, Bahrain, March 20. ![]()
Local Celebrity Chef Visits USS Ardent
MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain The Head Chef of the Bahrain restaurant, Ric's Upstairs, visited mine countermeasures ship USS Ardent (MCM 12), to teach the ships culinary specialists new techniques while preparing a meal together, March 8. ![]()

NAVCENT Commander Visits Lincoln
ARABIAN GULF - The commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Vice Adm. Mark Fox, visited aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Arabian Gulf, March 19-20. ![]()

COMBINED MARITIME FORCES HOST 23RD SHADE MEETING
MANAMA, Bahrain, March 13 It is estimated that more than 145 representatives from navies, law enforcement agencies, the shipping industry and various governments met in Bahrain, to discuss counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin. ![]()

John Paul Jones, Baranof Rescued 24 Filipino Mariners
ARABIAN GULF Guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) and U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Baranof (WPB 1318) rescued 24 Filipino mariners in Arabian Gulf, March 15. ![]()

Milius Continues CPO-365 While Deployed
ARABIAN SEA First class and chief petty officers aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) continue to follow the Chief Petty Officer (CPO) 365 program while deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. ![]()

Milius Small Craft Action Team Completes Qualifications
USS MILIUS, Arabian Sea Guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) weapons department leadership finalized a ship-wide weapons qualification, March 2. ![]()

Carl Vinson Welcomes Rather Distinguished Visitor
USS CARL VINSON, At Sea - Sailors aboard aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) welcomed aboard HDNet broadcast correspondent Dan Rather, March 9. ![]()

Sailors Explore Emirates
AJMAN AND SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates - Sailors from aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) toured the emirates of Ajman and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), during a port visit to Jebel Ali, Feb. 19. ![]()

US Naval Forces Central Command Selects Sailor Of The Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) recognized Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Ryan Wilson as Sailor of the Quarter for the first quarter, fiscal year 2012, Feb. 23. ![]()

US Naval Forces Central Command Names JSOQ
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) named its Junior Sailor of the Quarter (JSOQ), for the 1st Quarter of 2012, during an awards ceremony, Feb. 23. ![]()

NAVCENT Names 2012 Bluejacket Of The Quarter
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class Juan Rodriquez was selected as the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Bluejacket of the Year 2012. ![]()

Inaccurate Reporting Of Search And Rescue Events In Media
The Arab Times Online report, dated March 6, referring to an unnamed source
from Al-Shahed newspaper (Kuwait) that U.S. forces fired on a boat with six
Iranians onboard near Kuwaiti territorial waters, March 5, killing four,
wounding one and leaving one mariner unaccounted is unequivocally false and
unfounded. ![]()

U.S. Naval Assets Conduct Search and Rescue Mission for Iranian Mariners
ARABIAN GULF Coastal patrol craft USS Firebolt (PC 10) and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Maui (WPB 1304), assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 55, conducted a search and rescue mission for survivors of a capsized Iranian cargo dhow, in the north Arabian Gulf, March 3-4. ![]()

Oliver North Visits Halsey
USS Halsey, At Sea - Retired U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Oliver North, host of the award-winning television show, War Stories with Oliver North, visited the guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97), Feb. 25-26. ![]()

Carl Vinson Sailor Death Under Investigation
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) died as a result of a non-combat related incident during a port visit in Dubai, UAE, Feb. 17. ![]()

KUWAITI NAVY LEADS STAKENET EXERCISE
Exercise Stakenet, one of a series of routinely planned Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) exercises recently completed, Feb, 9. ![]()

Lincoln Begins Air Missions in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom
ARABIAN SEA The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ALCSG) launched its first combat sortie during this deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Feb. 16. ![]()

11 MEU Sailor Death Under Investigation
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain - A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) died as a result of a non-combat related incident during a training event in Djibouti, Feb. 14. ![]()

U.S. Navy Sailor Dies During Training Event
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) died as a result of a non-combat related incident, in Djibouti, Feb. 14. ![]()

AUSTRALIAN LED COMBINED TASK FORCE DISRUPTS NARCOTICS SHIPMENT
Combined Task Force 150 (CTF), one of three Task Forces within Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) conducted a successful disruption of a vessel carrying illicit cargo in the north Arabian Sea, Feb. 3, 2012. ![]()

Abraham Lincoln Visits Bahrain
MANAMA, Bahrain (Feb. 5, 2012) Aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) departed the Kingdom of Bahrain, Feb. 5, following a four-day port visit. ![]()

Lincoln Strike Group Assists Distressed Iranian Mariners
ARABIAN GULF (Jan. 31, 2012) -- Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ALCSG) assets responded to a distressed Iranian fishing dhow in the Arabian Gulf, Jan. 31. ![]()

COMBINED TASK FORCE 151 DEMONSTRATES SUSTAINABILITY ON MISSION
The Danish-led Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151, counter piracy) is entering its third week at sea onboard U.S. guided-missile destroyer, USS HALSEY (DDG 97) operating off the Horn of Africa, Jan. 27. ![]()

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Holds Annual Suicide Awareness Training
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) held its annual suicide awareness training, Jan. 22 and 23. ![]()

Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Visits USS Makin Island
USS MAKIN ISLAND, At sea - Commander, U.S. Navy 5th Fleet met with Sailors and Marines assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during an overnight visit to the ship, Jan. 14-15. ![]()

Abraham Lincoln Arrives in U.S. 5th Fleet
USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, Arabian Sea The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) arrives for a routine deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), Jan. 19. ![]()

CENTCOM Visits USS Carney (DDG 64)
ARABIAN GULF Gen. James N. Mattis, commander, U.S. Central Command, visited guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64), Jan. 16. ![]()

Navy and Coast Guard Integrate, Complete Successful Deployment
KUWAIT NAVAL BASE, Kuwait Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2 and U.S. Coast Guard Port Security Unit (USCGPSU) 307 returned home Jan. 20, after completing a successful deployment as part of Commander, Task Group (CTG) 56.5. ![]()

Dewey Aids Sinking Iranian Fishing Dhow
ARABIAN SEA Guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) rendered aid to the crew of a sinking Iranian fishing dhow in the central Arabian Sea, Jan. 18. ![]()

Carl Vinson Conducts OEF Mission For Second Time In 12 Months
ARABIAN SEA -- Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 Sailors began conducting air missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Jan. 14. ![]()

USS New Orleans Hosts Reception in Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - The crew of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) hosted a reception on the ships flight deck for senior military and civilian officials from the U.S. United Arab Emirates and other foreign nations, Jan. 10. ![]()

Boy Scouts Visit U.S. Ships In Bahrain
MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain Members of Boy Scouts of America Troop 826 and Cub Scouts of America Pack 826 visited coastal patrol ship USS Whirlwind (PC 11) and U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Aquidneck (WPB 1309), Jan. 7. ![]()

CTF 55 Ship Renders Aid to Iranian Mariners
ARABIAN GULF A U.S. Coast Guard ship, assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 55, rendered aid to six Iranian mariners from a distressed vessel in the North Arabian Gulf, Jan 10. ![]()

HSL 37.5 Eclipses 1,000 Hours Of Flight Time
ARABIAN GULF - Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 37, Det. 5, embarked aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73), surpassed 1,000 hours of flight time, Jan. 4. ![]()

Carl Vinson Strike Group Arrives In U.S. Navy 5th Fleet
ARABIAN GULF USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) arrived in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), Jan. 9. ![]()

Pinckney Medical Team Treats Injured Civilian on Merchant Vessel
GULF OF ADEN - Three medical personnel assigned to Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical System (ERSS) 7, embarked aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) and seven visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team members boarded a cargo ship to provide medical assistance to an injured civilian, Jan. 1. ![]()

Bataan and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Groups Turnover Duties
USS BATAAN, Gulf of Aden Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Group (MEU) were relieved of their duties in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) by the Makin Island ARG and the 11th MEU, Jan. 6. ![]()

U.S. Navy Rescues Iranian Fishing Vessel From Pirates In Arabian Sea
ARABIAN SEA Forces assigned to the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, rescued an Iranian fishing vessel from Pirates in the northern Arabian Sea, Jan. 5. ![]()

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter ADAK Celebrates Christmas Overseas
MANAMA, Bahrain - Sailors aboard U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC), Adak (WPB 1333) celebrated the holiday season together with a holiday meal, Dec. 25. ![]()

SECDEF Calls USS Mesa Verde Sailor
GULF OF ADEN - Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta phoned a Sailor aboard amphibious-transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), to wish him a happy new year, Jan. 1. ![]()

USS Port Royal (CG 73) Celebrates Christmas At Sea
ARABIAN GULF - Sailors aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73) celebrated Christmas in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility ![]()

CTF IM Completes Mission And Disestablishes
MANAMA, Bahrain Combined Task Force Iraqi Maritime (CTF IM) declared mission complete and was officially disestablished, Dec. 31. ![]()
