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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 368 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 397 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2008 11:45 pm    Post subject: USS Nassau (LHA-4) · Quote Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) – PHIBRON 6- ow-commandpost http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=12926#12926 Commander, Amphibious Squadron Six Amphibious Task Force COMPHIBRON SIX (COMPHIBRON) 6 COMPHIBRON 6 PHIBRON SIX Amphibious Squadron SIX (CPR 6) Amphibious Squadron 6 (CPR 6) http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron6.htm Commander Amphibious Squadron SIX is subordinate to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 (COMEXSTRKGRU TWO). Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) [NASESG] USS Nassau (LHA-4) "First from the Sea" / "Top Gator" ex-Leyte Gulf http://www.nassau.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Nassau (LHA 4) http://www.navy.mil/local/lha4 USS Nassau (LHA 4) Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=281 USS Nassau (LHA 4) History http://navysite.de/ships/lha4.htm USS Nassau (LHA 4) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/07/0704.htm Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group [NASARG] http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lha-4.htm Naval Station Norfolk, VA. USS Nassau (LHA 4) Deployment History http://www.uscarriers.net/lha4.htm History of USS Nassau and LHA 4 http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx   Nassau last deployment Ship’s and Units USS Nashville (LPD 13) http://www.nashville.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Nashville (LPD 13) http://www.navy.mil/local/lpd13 USS Nashville (LPD 13) History http://navysite.de/ships/lpd13.htm USS Nashville (LPD 13) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/09/0913.htm Amphibious Transport Dock – LPD http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=4200&tid=600&ct=4 USS Nassau (LHA 4) is named for the Battle of Nassau, the Navy/Marine Corps team's first-ever amphibious landing. Capt. Esek Hopkins of Rhode Island rallied a task force of four ships near the Bahamas on March 1, 1776.  The next day Hopkins sent a raiding party of 230 Marines and 50 Sailors ashore under the command of Capt. Samuel Nicholas, the Continental Marines' first commissioned officer. On March 3 the Marines captured Nassau without a fight and seized a sizable store of cannon, mortars and munitions.  The battle marked the first time American Sailors and Marines responded to the command "Land the landing force." The Legacy Two U.S. Navy ships have borne the name Nassau.  The first was the World War II escort carrier USS Nassau (CVE 16).  Laid down 27 November 1941 by the Seattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding Corporation of Tacoma, Wash., the ship was one of the ten Bogue class escort carriers that served in the U.S. Navy. Serving with distinction in the Pacific Theater of Operations, the ship was tasked primarily with transporting new and disabled aircraft between Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and U.S. bases in the South Pacific. The ship played a critical role during the Aleutian Island Campaign in May 1943 conducting flight operations  and providing air cover for the occupation of Attu Island.  USS Nassau (CVE 16) received five battle stars for service, represented in today's Nassau logo by the five stars seen in the crimson banner. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx The United States Navy's "Top Gator", USS NASSAU (LHA 4) is named for the target of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps' first ever-amphibious landing. Captain Esek Hopkins arrived off the Bahamas on March 1, 1776, to capture the islands from British forces stationed there. Two days later, Hopkins ordered a landing designed to outflank English defenses of the island. Two hundred thirty Marines and 50 Seaman landed on the beach and captured nearby Fort Montague. The force then advanced on Fort Nassau, which surrendered the following morning. Although most of the powder supply was no longer there, Hopkins and his men captured 103 and mortars - enough to make the operation worthwhile. Thus, for the first time American Sailors and Marines responded to the equivalent modern command of "Land the landing force." The first U.S. Navy ship to bear the name NASSAU was a World War II escort carrier, designated CVE 16. Serving with distinction in the Pacific Theater of Operations, the ship was tasked primarily with transporting new and disabled aircraft between Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and U.S. bases in the South Pacific. CVE 16 received five battle stars for service, represented in today's NASSAU logo by the five stars seen in the crimson banner. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx Today's Nassau The modern day USS NASSAU is the Navy's fourth Tarawa Class multi-purpose amphibious assault ship.  Commissioned in 1979, the ship has been an example of excellence and dedication for more than 25 years.       Nassau's mission is to embark, deply and land a Marine landing force by helicopter, attack aircraft or amphibious vehicle.  The ship can operate alone or in conjunction with other units, and is designed to deliver a balanced force to the same point at the same time. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx                               NASSAU stands 20 stories high, measures 820 feet in length and 106 feet in width, displaces 40,000 tons of seawater when fully loaded and has a flight deck that measures more than two acres square. NASSAU has 1,400 compartments - about the same number as a large hotel. NASSAU has nine elevators and two horizontal conveyors - more than most department stores. NASSAU has 2 boilers - the largest ever manufactured for the United States Navy. They can generate a total of 400 tons of steam per hour and develop 140,000 horsepower - equivalent to the horsepower of more than 700 average automobiles. NASSAU has electrical power subsystem creating 14,000 kilowatts to provide electrical power for the ship - adequate electrical power to light 11,500 homes for 50,000 people. NASSAU has 1,500 tons of air conditioning equipment - sufficient to environmentally control a 32-story office building or 500 average homes. NASSAU can ballast 12,000 tons of seawater for trimming the ship to receive and discharge landing craft from the well deck. NASSAU was constructed with more than 20,000 tons of steel, 3,000 tons of aluminum, 400 miles of cable and 80 miles of pipe. NASSAU has a 300 bed hospital, 4 medical operating rooms and 3 dental operating rooms. NASSAU has a 900-horsepower bow thruster for lateral movement at low speeds that can move the bow with 20,000 pounds of force - equivalent to half the pulling power of a diesel/electrical locomotive. Keel Laid                August 13, 1973 Launched               January 21, 1978 Christened             January 28, 1978 Commissioned        July 28, 1979 Length                   820 ft Beam                     106 ft Displacement         40,000 tons Speed                    20 knots   http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/facts.aspx The United States Navy's "Top Gator", USS NASSAU (LHA 4) is named for the target of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps' first ever-amphibious landing. Captain Esek Hopkins arrived off the Bahamas on March 1, 1776, to capture the islands from British forces stationed there. Two days later, Hopkins ordered a landing designed to outflank English defenses of the island. Two hundred thirty Marines and 50 Seaman landed on the beach and captured nearby Fort Montague. The force then advanced on Fort Nassau, which surrendered the following morning. Although most of the powder supply was no longer there, Hopkins and his men captured 103 and mortars - enough to make the operation worthwhile. Thus, for the first time American Sailors and Marines responded to the equivalent modern command of "Land the landing force." The first U.S. Navy ship to bear the name NASSAU was a World War II escort carrier, designated CVE 16. Serving with distinction in the Pacific Theater of Operations, the ship was tasked primarily with transporting new and disabled aircraft between Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and U.S. bases in the South Pacific. CVE 16 received five battle stars for service, represented in today's NASSAU logo by the five stars seen in the crimson banner. The modern day USS NASSAU was commissioned in 1979 as the fourth of the Navy's TARAWA-class general-purpose amphibious assault ships. For more than 25 years NASSAU has been an example of excellence and dedication. Through the 1980s, 1990s and into the 21st Century, Nassau has continually proven adept at responding rapidly to every call and order.                                 The ship deployed to the Middle East for more than eight months in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm on only eight days notice.  President George H. W. Bush visited the ship during the deployment and shared Thanksgiving dinner with the crew, joined by First Lady Barbara Bush, General Norman Schwarzkopf and several influential members of Congress.                           Nassau participated in several more operations supporting U.S. foreign policy objectives during the 1990s, including Operations Support Democracy, Deny Flight, Allied Force, and Noble Anvil.  The ship's capabilites as a multi-purpose platform can meet the needs of virtually any mission assigned.  Nassau has performed missions  in numerous locations around the world, including as the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, and the Arabian Gulf.   The ship has served as a flagship, logistics hub for incoming and outgoing mail, cargo and other supplies, combat search and rescue, and the tactical recovery and rescue of downed aircraft and personnel. NASSAU completed an eight-month midlife complex overhaul at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Va., in 2000. While there, NASSAU was named the 1999 Battle "E" winner. At the shipyard, NASSAU's engineering plant was completely revamped and received new state-of-the-art electronic systems. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx USS Nassau (LHA 4) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) -- The general-purpose amphibious assault ship, USS NASSAU (LHA 4) departed for its six-month Mediterranean deployment on 28 November 2000. USS NASSAU had trained the previous eight months in preparation for this deployment through a series of exercises and operations. These pre-deployment exercises culminated with the successful completion of Joint Task Force Exercise 01-1 and NATO Exercise Unified Spirit 2000. Other ships sailing in the NASSAU Amphibious Readiness Group were USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13) and USS PORTLAND (LSD 37). http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron2.htm The morning of September 11, 2001, found NASSAU at Metro Machine in Norfolk, Va., undergoing a brief yard period. In the wake of the tragedy, NASSAU's then Commanding Officer Capt. Russell Tjepkema, a Brooklyn, N.Y. native, reunited with a high school friend with connections to the New York Fire Department, which had suffered great personnel losses as a result of the terrorist attacks. To honor FDNY, Capt. Tjepkema requested a FDNY flag from a New York firehouse for NASSAU to fly while on station during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Not only did NASSAU receive the flag, but a firefighter's helmet showing the scars of 20 years of service and the patch of a fallen fireman were also included. The FDNY gift has a permanent home on board the ship. Post 9/11, NASSAU returned to the Mediterranean Sea in 2001 for Exercises ATLAS HINGE and CAPO TEULADO. In the era framed by Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM and September 11, 2001, NASSAU continually proved adept at responding rapidly to each and every call and order. In support of Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM, NASSAU deployed to the Middle East for over eight months on only eight days notice. Upon leaving the United States, NASSAU became the Flagship for Commander, Amphibious Task Force and the 4th MEB's Commanding General. NASSAU was honored during this deployment when President George H. W. Bush selected NASSAU as the site for a special Thanksgiving Day meal with Sailors and Marines thousands of miles from home. The President was joined by his wife, Barbara Bush, General Norman Schwarzkopf and several influential members of Congress. NASSAU participated in several more operations throughout the 1990s, including Operations SUPPORT DEMOCRACY, DENY FLIGHT, ALLIED FORCE and NOBLE ANVIL. These operations in support of U.S. foreign policy objectives as well as NASSAU's participation in numerous Navy and joint exercises took NASSAU to numerous locales in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Adriatic regions, including Haiti, Spain, Morocco, Italy, France, Greece, Israel, Albania, Zaire and Kosovo. NASSAU's capability as a general-purpose ship has allowed her to flex to the needs of virtually any mission assigned. In addition to her primary role as a Marine transport, NASSAU has served as a flagship, logistics hub for incoming and outgoing mail, cargo and other supplies, combat search and rescue, and the tactical recovery and rescue of downed aircraft and personnel. In 2002, NASSAU participated in a series of exercises and work ups before deploying in late August. The first bombing raids on Baghdad began on March 20, 2003, and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM was underway. Though due to return to the U.S., NASSAU remained on station and provided support to ongoing U.S. operations. NASSAU returned to Norfolk on May 29, completing its longest deployment to date, 277 days, and earning the right to fly the Homeward Bound Pennant on the journey home. NASSAU returned to Norfolk Naval Shipyard post deployment for an extensive overhaul. The ship was dry-docked to facilitate installation of a new fuel compensating system and to complete hull preservation in addition to regular routine maintenance. NASSAU's capability continues to be honed to meet any needs, any time. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx USS Nassau Amphibious Readiness Group Returns to Homeport Story Number: NNS030509-19 Release Date: 5/9/2003 1:43:00 PM From U.S. Atlantic Fleet Public Affairs NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The USS Nassau (LHA 4) Amphibious Readiness Group is expected to arrive at Morehead City, N.C., May 26 to offload embarked Marines and equipment, and return to Norfolk May 29 after deploying for more than nine months in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The Norfolk-based Amphibious Readiness Group deployed on Aug. 26 and consists of USS Nassau (LHA 4), USS Austin (LPD 4), USS Tortuga (LSD 46) and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Special Operations Capable from Camp Lejeune, N.C. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=7391 Most recently, in 2008 Nassau deployed to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf in support of maritime security operations. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx The modern day USS Nassau (LHA 4) was commissioned in 1979 as the fourth of the Navy's TARAWA-class general-purpose amphibious assault ships. For more than 25 years Nassau has been an example of excellence and dedication. The USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Battle Group and the USS Nassau (LHA 4) Amphibious Ready Group were underway in late 1998 in the Western Atlantic participating in Joint Task Force Exercise 99-1. Ships got underway Sept. 18 for the three-week exercise to prepare for their upcoming Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf deployment, slated to begin in early November 1998. The USS Nassau Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) remained on station in the Adriatic conducting urgent humanitarian relief operations in support of ongoing operations in Kosovo. Capitalizing on the airlift and mobility capabilities of the ARG/MEU team, this international relief effort delayed the Nassau ARG's return to homeport by approximately two weeks. COMPHIBRON FOUR embarked. USS Nassau (LHA 4), USS Pensacola (LSD 38), USS Nashville (LPD 13) and embarked Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) had been scheduled to return to homeport 13 May 1999. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron4.htm In the era framed by Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM and September 11, 2001, Nassau continually proved adept at responding rapidly to each and every call and order. In support of Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM, NASSAU deployed to the Middle East for over eight months on only eight days notice. Upon leaving the United States, NASSAU became the Flagship for Commander, Amphibious Task Force and the 4th MEB's Commanding General. Nassau was honored during this deployment when President George H. W. Bush selected NASSAU as the site for a special Thanksgiving Day meal with Sailors and Marines thousands of miles from home. The President was joined by his wife, Barbara Bush, General Norman Schwarzkopf and several influential members of Congress. Nassau participated in several more operations throughout the 1990s, including Operations SUPPORT DEMOCRACY, DENY FLIGHT, ALLIED FORCE and NOBLE ANVIL. These operations in support of U.S. foreign policy objectives as well as NASSAU's participation in numerous Navy and joint exercises took NASSAU to numerous locales in the Atlantic, Mediterranean and Adriatic regions, including Haiti, Spain, Morocco, Italy, France, Greece, Israel, Albania, Zaire and Kosovo. Nassau 's capability as a general-purpose ship has allowed her to flex to the needs of virtually any mission assigned. In addition to her primary role as a Marine transport, NASSAU has served as a flagship, logistics hub for incoming and outgoing mail, cargo and other supplies, combat search and rescue, and the tactical recovery and rescue of downed aircraft and personnel. Nassau completed an eight-month midlife complex overhaul at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Va., in 2000. While there, NASSAU was named the 1999 Battle "E" winner. At the shipyard, NASSAU's engineering plant was completely revamped and received new state-of-the-art electronic systems. The morning of September 11, 2001, found Nassau at Metro Machine in Norfolk, Va., undergoing a brief yard period. In the wake of the tragedy, Nassau 's then Commanding Officer Capt. Russell Tjepkema, a Brooklyn, N.Y. native, reunited with a high school friend with connections to the New York Fire Department, which had suffered great personnel losses as a result of the terrorist attacks. To honor FDNY, Capt. Tjepkema requested a FDNY flag from a New York firehouse for Nassau to fly while on station during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Not only did Nassau receive the flag, but a firefighter's helmet showing the scars of 20 years of service and the patch of a fallen fireman were also included. The FDNY gift has a permanent home on board the ship. Post 9/11, Nassau returned to the Mediterranean Sea in 2001 for Exercises ATLAS HINGE and CAPO TEULADO. In 2002, Nassau participated in a series of exercises and work ups before deploying in late August. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx In May 2003, Nassau completed the most challenging deployment in her 25-year history. While on station near the end of a regularly scheduled deployment, NASSAU, with 24 MEU embarked, took the lead in support for Operation Iraqi Freedom. At the end of the war, Nassau steamed home, flying the Homeward Bound Pennant, 277 days after leaving her homeport in Norfolk, Va. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/facts.aspx The first bombing raids on Baghdad began on March 20, 2003, and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM was underway. Though due to return to the U.S., Nassau remained on station and provided support to ongoing U.S. operations. Nassau returned to Norfolk on May 29, completing its longest deployment to date, 277 days, and earning the right to fly the Homeward Bound Pennant on the journey home. Nassau returned to Norfolk Naval Shipyard post deployment for an extensive overhaul. The ship was dry-docked to facilitate installation of a new fuel compensating system and to complete hull preservation in addition to regular routine maintenance. Nassau 's capability continues to be honed to meet any needs, any time. http://www.nassau.navy.mil/site%20pages/history.aspx USS Nassau Returns from Surge Story Number: NNS070507-14 Release Date: 5/7/2007 2:57:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Ardelle L. Purcell, USS Nassau Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Navy’s “Top Gator,” USS Nassau (LHA 4) returned to its homeport May 6, following a six-week surge to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. While there, Nassau hosted the multinational two-week exercise Phoenix Express 2007, which strengthened and promoted friendship, mutual understanding and regional maritime partnerships with 10 NATO and North African countries. Nassau conducted 60 training events designed to enhance maritime domain awareness and strengthened the 11 participating countries' abilities to operate jointly and effectively. Events such as maritime interdiction operations, fast roping, small boat transfers, vertical replenishments, precision instrument approaches, day and night flight deck landings and medical evacuation procedures successfully brought together participants from Algeria, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey and the United States. “I had a chance to meet with each participating country’s team and I asked them, ‘Have you learned anything that you didn’t know before?’ And every one of the teams said we learned something from somebody else,” said Vice Adm. John Stufflebeem, Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “This is cross-pollination of nations and people within the nations, one to another. This is going to have a positive benefit and, maybe someday, they’ll start to see themselves working together not just as an exercise, but as a real regional security issue,” Stufflebeem said. The different language barriers and cultural backgrounds were not enough to stop the training Nassau provided or the mission of its crew members. “Most often these types of multinational exercises prove we have more in common as people than our history speaks of,” said Marine Maj. Bruce K. Brahe, Nassau’s air operations officer. “These exercises are important and they build friendships. We don’t focus on the differences; but, we focus on what brings us together.” Building on the success of Phoenix Express 2007, planning for next year’s exercise has already begun. “The whole point is how you take this forward and advance this. What we don’t want to do is keep coming back and doing the same thing every year,” said Stufflebeem. “It’s really more important to say, ‘We saw what happened, let’s say last year. We improved upon that for this year. What did we learn from this year to improve upon for next year?’ Part of that question is still to be learned.” Nassau is commanded by Capt. Martin R. Allard, who was also commander of Amphibious Squadron 6, for the successful mission. “Bravo Zulu on your excellent support to exercise Phoenix Express. Your professionalism, adaptability and willingness to take any and all missions assigned were cornerstone to making this year’s exercise a stunning success,” said Allard to his crew. “You superbly supported the exercise as an afloat base for personnel and equipment from 11 different nations. Your performance during this exercise has definitely lived up to the title of ‘Top Gator.’” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=29244 Nassau ESG Conducts Group Sail Story Number: NNS070827-21 Release Date: 8/27/2007 5:37:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ardelle L. Purcell, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- The Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) set sail Aug. 24 for their first at-sea group exercise, in preparation for next year’s six-month deployment. Comprised of USS Nassau (LHA 4), USS Nashville (LPD 13) and USS Ashland (LSD 48), as well as the 24th Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the ESG’s group sail provides the opportunity for crews to focus on teamwork and communications that will prove to be vital to the mission success of their 2008 deployment. “The group sail is designed to provide basic amphibious training to the Amphibious Readiness Group ships prior to forming up with the rest of the ESG,” said Capt. James R. Boorujy, commanding officer of Nassau. "It includes working with all types of landing craft in the Navy and Marine Corps inventory as well as becoming proficient in ship handling, communication and live-fire exercises." The ESG concept centers on the combined flexibility and readiness of a Navy amphibious readiness group and a MEU, augmented by surface combatant ships and a fast-attack submarine, armed with expanded offensive and defensive warfare capabilities, by land with embarked Marines, and at sea. This exercise is designed to forge the strike group into a cohesive, fighting team and represents a critical step in the pre-deployment training cycle. The 24th MEU’s goal for the ESG group sail is to conduct evolutions that they would execute during the upcoming deployment and real-world operations. “This is a great opportunity for our Marines to get familiar with the ship and its capabilities,” said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony M. Bargallo, non-commissioned officer in charge of Combat Cargo. "It helps us identify and iron out kinks and combat any potential operational problems. It also allows the Navy and Marine Corps team to take any steps necessary for assuring a smooth deployment." Once the group sail is complete, Nassau and the other ships in the ESG will continue on to the next step of their Integrated Readiness Cycle. Nassau is assigned to Commander Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group. The six ships and 5,000 Sailors and Marines allow warfighting naval amphibious forces to operate with joint and combined forces for combatant commanders. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=31453 USS Nassau Wins 2007 Battle "E" Award Story Number: NNS080301-17 Release Date: 3/1/2008 7:32:00 PM From USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- Commander, Naval Surface Forces announced USS Nassau (LHA 4) as a winner of the 2007 Battle Effectiveness "E" award, which was announced in a naval message Feb. 29. The Battle "E" is awarded annually to ships that demonstrate the highest state of combat readiness in their group, and their ability to execute their wartime tasks. The award was established in 1974 to recognize ships and aviation squadrons who are the best in the fleet in all areas of battle readiness during a specific 12-month fleet wide competition. A ship's sustained superior performance in six different areas contributes to the award. These areas are maritime warfare; engineering and survivability; command, control, communications, and information warfare; logistics management; surface force safety; and the Efficiency Excellence award, which recognizes the efficient use of resources as part of overall battle effectiveness and overall Navy readiness. "This award belongs to every member of the Nassau team," Nassau Commanding Officer," Capt. James R. Boorujy said. "Everyone on the ship put maximum effort into getting this ship ready to defend our nation's interests to the best of its ability." Nassau is currently deployed as the flagship of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group in support Maritime Security Operations and Theater Security Cooperation efforts in the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35350 Nassau Sailors and Marines Tour Ronda, Spain Story Number: NNS080318-09 Release Date: 3/18/2008 1:09:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class(SW) Michael Cortez, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS Nassau, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) made a port visit to Rota, March 7-10, before transiting the Strait of Gibraltar and entering the Mediterranean Sea while deployed to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. In addition to the facilities available on base, many Nassau Sailors and Marines signed up for Morale, Welfare and Recreation tours to take a closer look at the culture and history of Spain. One was a guided tour of Ronda, a picturesque town high in the mountains famous for its bullring and scenic vistas. Ronda also has a tall bridge connecting the new and old town, overlooking a deep gorge between two tall mountain walls. The tour guide mentioned famous artists and writers whose work was inspired while visiting at this same spot. Old Ronda has the architecture and stone-paved streets of a town full of history. Spanish nobles once owned homes in Ronda and would spend time throughout the year to enjoy the town's mild climate. The main feature of the tour was the Plaza de toros de Ronda. Built in 1785, it's one of the oldest operational bullrings in Spain. The Romero family, one of the most famous families of bullfighters, is from Ronda. One member of the family, Pedro Romero, killed more than 5600 bulls in the late 1700s to early 1800s. The Romeros and others in Ronda pioneered the style of bullfighting we see today, where a matador faces a bull on foot, armed with a cape and a long dagger. Before they developed what is now the standard, bullfighters rode on horseback. Following the tour of the bullring, participants hit the restaurants and shops in the more modern part of Ronda before heading back to Nassau and making the trip through the Strait of Gibraltar. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35825 Nassau Sailors Visit Gibraltar before entering Mediterranean Story Number: NNS080318-15 Release Date: 3/18/2008 2:16:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jonathan Pankau USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) took the opportunity to visit Gibraltar during a recent port visit to nearby Rota, Spain, March 7-10. The ship is deployed as part of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group in support of Maritime Security Operations and Theater Security Cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. The Strait of Gibraltar, dominated by the Rock of Gibraltar, is a strategic naval entrance into the Mediterranean Sea. The strait, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates Spain from Morocco, is eight miles wide at its narrowest point. Gibraltar is a British overseas territory. Spain ceded sovereignty over Gibraltar in perpetuity in 1713 under the Treaty of Utrecht. "As you can see from the fish and chips bars and telephone booths, Gibraltar is an English territory," said tour guide Eddie Hollands. Gibraltar's natural caves and manmade tunnels have been used time and again as strategic bastions and choke points. St. Michael's Cave, one of the natural caverns that reside inside the Rock of Gibraltar, was even used to hide five hundred Spaniards from discovery after attempting to take Gibraltar back for Spain. "Growing up in the U.S., you don't see the first-hand history of over 1,000 years of culture. The military aspect of Gibraltar is also interesting and how it's changed the face of war," said Nassau Executive Officer Cmdr. Neil Karnes. St. Michael's cave is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gibraltar. It is said that the cave is bottomless and if one follows the caverns, it will eventually take you to Africa, although this has not been proven. The cave is occasionally used for concerts and orchestral shows due to its superb acoustics. "St. Michael's Cave was really cool. The history of the caves is just phenomenal," said Karnes. Just outside St. Michael's Cave, the Barbary apes wait for tourists. The only wild monkeys found in Europe, they are very people friendly and will even climb up on shoulders for a photo opportunity. It is said that if the monkeys ever leave, so will the British. Karnes encouraged more Sailors to take advantage of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR)-subsidized tours as the ship continues its deployment. "I think the MWR tours like this are great. Having the opportunity to experience new things at a reasonable cost is a great advantage for Sailors," said Karnes. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35830 Nassau Sailors Tour Island of Gozo during Malta Port Visit Story Number: NNS080408-22 Release Date: 4/8/2008 3:44:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jonathan Pankau, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Nassau (LHA 4) Sailors and Marines toured the Maltese island of Gozo during a port visit to Malta, March 14-17. Nassau's Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department set up a trip to Malta's northernmost island, where Sailors and Marines visited the Ggantija Temples, enjoyed an authentic Gozitan meal overlooking Xlendi Bay, a local market and the Blue Window in nearby Dwerja Bay. The giant rock formations known as the Ggantija Temples, or "The Giant's Tower," are well-preserved prehistoric temples built by hand. Tourists can traverse through the remains of the temple. Nassau's Sailors and Marines also visited one of the island's local restaurants, where they enjoyed chicken or fish dishes, white wine and salads from a roof-top garden and a terrace overlooking the Xlendi Bay. One of Gozo's main exports is homemade wine, cheese and preserves that come out of the plentiful farms on the island. After touring the local markets and wineries, the next destination was the Blue Window, a natural rock formation, much like a bridge into the ocean. The rising and falling tides hollowed out center of the Blue Window over the ages to form a sort of window-shaped hole. The scenic location plays host to many commercials and movie scenes. "The one thing I found very interesting about Gozo was when the tour guide talked about all of the desalination plants around the island and that with the rising price of oil, water will one day become more expensive than gasoline," said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class James Born. "It was an eye-opener for me because in the United States we take our water and water consumption for granted." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36282 Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group Sailors Improve Community Relations Abroad Story Number: NNS080702-03 Release Date: 7/2/2008 4:13:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Coleman Thompson, Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs USS NASSAU At Sea (NNS) -- During its recent deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation, 522 Navy and Marine Corps volunteers from the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group completed 28 community relations (COMREL) projects, totaling 2,605 man-hours of work. "Community relations projects are important for a variety of reasons," explained Lt. Cmdr. Michael W. Gore, USS Nassau (LHA 4) chaplain. "For some, they are an expression of their religious faith, for others they are a demonstration of their humanitarian concern. For each, they afford an opportunity to interact with other cultures, thus fostering intercultural understanding and demonstrating the best that our American culture has to offer." Nassau provided 1,240 man-hours from 253 volunteers to 13 different COMREL projects in Malta, Italy, Greece, Bahrain and Dubai. USS Ashland (LSD 48) contributed 510 man-hours from 100 volunteers to projects in Greece, Israel, Mauritius and Madagascar. Sailors from USS Nashville (LPD 13) -- 75 in all -- provided 300 man-hours worth of work in six different COMREL projects in Spain and Greece. USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) participated in COMREL projects in Greece, Israel and Turkey, with 65 volunteers who contributed a total of 400 man-hours. More than two dozen Sailors from USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) volunteered 125 man-hours to a project in Seychelles, and Ross contributed 30 man-hours from five volunteers to a project in France. Gore explained the work was roughly the equivalent to hiring a team of eight people to work two months at a labor cost of $50,000. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38195 Nassau Conducts Well Deck Operations as Strike Group Trains for Deployment Story Number: NNS070829-04 Release Date: 8/29/2007 1:23:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ryan Steinhour, Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors of USS Nassau (LHA 4), along with Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embarked and disembarked landing craft utility (LCU) and landing craft air cushions (LCAC) on Aug. 26 during training operations for the upcoming strike group deployment. Nassau is currently underway with USS Ashland (LSD 48) and USS Nashville (LPD 13) as the ships complete the Type Commander's Afloat Training period, or TCAT. TCAT is the first underway period in the strike group's six-month workup cycle. LCUs and LCACs are crafts used to transport troops and equipment to the shore, while also being able to transport tracked or wheeled vehicles. With the Marines being the most valuable of those assets carried to shore, it is important for the Navy and Marine Corps team to work hand and hand during these operations to ensure safe and seamless operations. “The training mission was well planned and executed by the Navy and Marine Corps team,” said Chief Warrant Officer Fred Tiedemann, officer in charge of Assault Craft Unit 4, Det. 3. Though TCAT and the well-deck operations are part of the ship’s and strike group's regular amphibious certifications, it also marked the first time the Navy and Marine Corps team of the Nassau Strike Group have conducted tactical training operations together in this deployment cycle. While the certifications are reoccurring, conducting these types of training operations are crucial because personnel transfer so often and the ship deploys with a different MEU each time. “Every time we launch a craft we learn something,” said Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW) Anthony J. Costa, Nassau Well Deck control officer. “Sometimes you launch and the water is as smooth as glass, and everything goes perfectly. However, sometimes you have environmental issues or wave action, and if everyone is not keen on what is going on at all times the craft can damage the ship on its way in,” he added. “We have a very small margin for error,” said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Christopher L. Olschewski, member of Nassau’s 2nd Division. “Complications of any [kind] could cause death or serious bodily harm to a person.” “Line handling mishaps are probably the most common problem with these training evolutions,” said Costa. “You just have to ensure that your people are qualified to be out there; and that is why we train.” The Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group is made up of Sailors from six U.S. Navy ships and is augmented by warriors from the Marine Corps’ 24th MEU. The strike group is currently preparing for its regularly-scheduled deployment in early 2008. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=31538 Marines Embark USS Nassau as Strike Group Readies for Deployment Story Number: NNS070829-16 Release Date: 8/29/2007 5:16:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Coleman Thompson, Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- To better fight the global war on terrorism, Sailors and Marines worked together on board USS Nassau (LHA 4) Aug. 28 to put troops right where they need to be, distant shores. The 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) has been attached to Nassau for training operations in preparation for the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group’s (ESG) upcoming deployment early next year. The 24th MEU embarked Nassau for the a one-week Type Commander’s Afloat Training period, or TCAT -- the first in a series of preparatory workups that will certify the strike group fit for deployment. The ship is currently afloat with USS Ashland (LSD 48) and USS Nashville (LPD 13). “The purpose of these training ops [operations] on Nassau is to familiarize Marines with operating on the ship,” said Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Bruce Womack. “The Navy’s been supportive of everything that we’ve done.” “The reason we train is so we can learn each other’s standard operating procedures,” said Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Bargallo. “There’s the way the Marine Corps operates, just like there’s a certain way the Navy operates. For a lot of these Sailors this is the first time seeing Marines and Marine equipment on board an amphibious ship like this. It’s been an experience.” During TCAT, the Air Combat Element from the 24th MEU conducted several training flight scenarios as they worked toward receiving their Deck Landing Qualifications, or DLQ’s. For some Marine Corps pilots, this was their first time landing on a Navy ship. “The flight deck is always busy,” said Bargallo. “We’ve got the pilots of the Air Combat Element doing their DLQ’s, which means they’re getting their first time landing in a tight space. Most of these guys have come from the desert.” Personnel in the ship’s well deck also got to work with several of the landing craft that transport Marines from ship to shore. “It’s been great down there in the well deck,” said Bargallo. “These operations give the personnel there a chance to work with LCU’s, the landing craft [utilities], and the LCAC’s, the landing craft air cushions, that they’ve never seen before except maybe in movies.” The Nassau ESG is made up of Sailors from six U.S. Navy ships and is augmented by warriors from the Marine Corps’ 24th MEU. The strike group is currently preparing for its regularly-scheduled deployment in early 2008. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=31536 Nassau Crew Takes Break with Steel Beach Picnic Story Number: NNS080512-04 Release Date: 5/12/2008 10:13:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jonathan Pankau, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the USS Nassau (LHA 4) took a break from day-to-day operations, attending a Steel Beach Picnic on the ship's flight deck May 5. "The Steel Beach Picnic was a big project for us," said Damage Controlman Fireman Anderson Navarrete, one of Nassau's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) representatives. "After about two weeks of planning the various activities, we set up sumo wrestling, karaoke, jousting sticks, board games, basketball, sand bag tossing and a disc jockey." "It was a good time for everyone to get together and take a break from the normal work day. It relieved a lot of stress," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Dwan Arguelles of Fleet Surgical Team 2, embarked on Nassau. While the MWR activities grabbed the attention of those who visited Nassau's hangar bay, Sailors lined up on the flight deck for the Gator Bistro barbeque that included steaks, ribs, hamburgers, hot dogs and side orders of macaroni and cheese, macaroni salad, coleslaw and baked beans. "We worked nonstop for 4 days on the Steel Beach, signing up volunteers, going through paperwork, ordering food and supplies and preparing everything for the barbeque," said Chief Culinary Specialist (SW) Aleithia Young, leading chief petty officer of Nassau's Food Service Division. Young said many of Nassau crew members came out to support the picnic, setting up the MWR events, serving the food, and helping to clean up. She said the weather could not have been better and everyone said they had a great time. "I'd like to extend my thanks to the Chiefs Mess and Wardroom for putting forth such an outstanding effort, providing so many volunteers to help us," said Young. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37050 Nassau Sailor Selected as NAVCENT DET Afghanistan Junior Sailor of the Quarter Story Number: NNS080512-14 Release Date: 5/12/2008 11:52:00 AM From USS Nassau Public Affairs BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Detachment (NAVCENT DET) Afghanistan selected Electronics Technician 3rd Class Patrick Johnson as its Junior Sailor of the Quarter, April 2, for the 2nd Quarter of 2008. Johnson is an individual augmentee from USS Nassau (LHA 4) serving with NAVCENT DET Afghanistan. He is currently assigned to Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan (CJSOTF-A), where he is an automated data processing shift supervisor. Johnson supervises four people and manages classified and unclassified servers at Camp Vance that allow CJSOTF-A to operate at full capacity. Watch standers use the system he maintains to get a full view of the battlefield, support troops in the field and coordinate medical evacuations. Chief Information Systems Technician (SW/AW) Travis Gagum, leading chief petty officer at Camp Vance, wrote in his nomination letter that Johnson saved the Army more than $50,000 removing and installing cable for the camp's new joint operating center and an outlying building at another camp. Johnson's volunteer work also set him apart. He went to local communities and interacted with Afghan children, passing out candy and handing out school supplies in Operation Sweet Tooth. He also volunteered for a convoy to provide service members at Camp Morehead with vital supplies and returned a vehicle to Bagram Air Base for repair. Johnson said that for him, the recognition validates the effort he's put into his naval career so far. "During my short time in the Navy I have learned more than I ever thought that I would," Johnson said. "I've tried to implement Navy standards in my life, especially now that I'm in Afghanistan surrounded by the Army. "I used to believe that I was doing work for the mission at hand and that no one paid it any extra mind. Being awarded Junior Sailor of the Quarter was a great honor for me. It makes me feel like I'm accomplishing something and helping a mission that is much larger than just me." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37053 _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 368 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 397 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Thu Aug 14, 2008 12:30 am    Post subject: USS Nassau (LHA-4) · Quote Nassau holds Captain's Cup Competition Story Number: NNS080512-12 Release Date: 5/12/2008 11:48:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Steven Scott Smith, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Nassau (LHA 4) held its annual Captain's Cup competition, April 9-10, during a port visit to Souda Bay, Crete, and at sea, April 26-27. Jessica McIntosh, Nassau's morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) officer, said events like the Captain's Cup provide positive activities for Sailors to participate in during long deployments. Nassau deployed Feb. 19 as the flagship of the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group. "Holding events like the Captain's Cup encourages our Sailors to stay physically fit and brings out the competitive individuals to represent their departments," McIntosh said. There was a large turnout for all the events, with every department fielding a team for each event. Softball, basketball and soccer tournaments were held in Souda Bay, where the command, control, computers, communications, combat, and intelligence (C5I) department won softball and basketball. Air department won the soccer tournament. McIntosh said that underway, Air department won the volleyball tournament, while C5I owned the dodge ball court. "C5I dominated softball, basketball and dodge ball," said Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class (SW) Sean Deeks. "We came in second for volleyball and third in soccer. Look for us to win again next year." MWR Leading Chief Petty Officer, Master Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (AW/SW) Amos Harvey said the successful turnout for the Captain's Cup showed a high level of crew interest, and the MWR division is already planning other sporting events aboard the ship during the second half of the deployment. "Friendly competition in these sporting activities gives the departments who excel something to be proud of," Harvey said. "I thought it was well put together," said Personnel Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Jose Maldonado, a member of the executive department's volleyball team. "Sports are good for the crew's morale because it brings us together." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37051 Nassau Observes Days of Remembrance Story Number: NNS080512-13 Release Date: 5/12/2008 11:50:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Charmin Covington, USS Nassau Public Affairs USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Nassau (LHA 4) Sailors observed the annual Days of Remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust, May 4. Nassau Jewish Lay Representative, Ensign Rebecca Wolfe offered a prayer and provided background information. "This is the first one I have seen done, and I was surprised at the good turnout of people," Wolfe said. Aviation Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Steve Goldstein was glad to see the observance, which included a showing of the film Schindler's List. He said it reminded him of a relative who survived the camps. "My uncle had numbers on his arms, the tattoos on the forearms told who they were," Goldstein said. "This lets people know what the Jews went through. I had never been on a ship that observes the days of remembrance. I'm glad this ship does." It was also the first time Information System Technician 2nd Class Sarah Schnabl had seen a shipboard observance. "This is the first place I have been with this observance and felt honored, to be part of it," Schnabl said. Schnabl read a poem along with Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class (AW) Alan Schneider about a little Jewish boy in the holocaust with his hands up who nobody could hear or see. "I'd never been at a command that observed it," Schneider said. "It was overlooked at all my previous commands, and I have been in for 10 years." "In Jewish tradition we celebrate the people who have passed. It's a way to remember the people who died in honor of the holocaust," Schnabl said, adding she was pleased with what the command is doing to support cultural diversity Nassau Commanding Officer Capt. James Boorujy, a supporter of all the command's cultural awareness events, spoke about the importance of remembering the victims of the Holocaust. "Shipmates, we pause at this time to remember the Holocaust," Boorujy said. "During the Holocaust, approximately 8 million Jews were murdered by Nazi Germany. While we think of this, we must focus on the fact that this is not the only time horrific genocide has taken place. Genocide is, in fact, common in history and happens still today." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37052 _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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