View previous topic :: View next topic
Author	Message
Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 394 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 425 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Mon Jun 30, 2008 12:31 am    Post subject: USS Essex (LHD-2) · Quote Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7-CTF76-COMPHIBRON ELEVEN - ow-commandpost http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=12932#12932 Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7 / Task Force 76 Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (COMEXSTRKGRU) SEVEN COMEXSTRKGRU SEVEN DET Sasebo Commander, Task Force 76 (CTF76) Commander, Amphibious Force, Seventh Fleet http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/default.aspx Per CNO guidance regarding alignment of Expeditionary Strike Groups and Amphibious Groups, Amphibious Group 1, Commander, Amphibious Group One [COMPHIBGRU ONE] and COMPHIBGRU ONE DET Sasebo were renamed Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (COMEXSTRKGRU) SEVEN and Officer in Charge, COMEXSTRKGRU SEVEN DET Sasebo, effective 1 October 2006. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/esg7.htm Former title: Commander, Amphibious Group One COMPHIBGRU ONE Commander, Task Force 76 (CTF76) Commander, Amphibious Force, Seventh Fleet http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/default.aspx http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibgru1.htm Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=223 Focus on Commander, Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet http://www.news.navy.mil/local/ctf76 Commander, Amphibious Force, U.S. 7th Fleet Story Archive http://www.news.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=151 CTF 76 Photos http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=CTF+76+Photos+&btnG=Google+Search Task Force 76 — Amphibious Assault task force mainly responsible for supporting Marine landing operations. It is composed of units capable of delivering ship-to-shore assault troops, such as Tarawa-class and Wasp-class amphibious assault ships, and landing craft. Having three different titles, Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. SEVENTH Fleet/Amphibious Group ONE/Task Force 76 is responsible for conducting expeditionary warfare operations to support a full range of theater contingencies, ranging from humanitarian and disaster relief operations, to full combat operations. CTF 76 is the Commander, U.S. SEVENTH Fleet’s primary Navy advisor on amphibious matters in the Seventh Fleet Area of Operations (AOR), and conducts a number of bi- and multi-lateral exercises each year in support of Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Cooperative Engagement Strategy. Commander, Amphibious Group ONE serves as: Commander, Amphibious Force Seventh Fleet; Commander, Task Force Seven Six; and Commander, Maritime Prepositioned Force Seventh Fleet. As Commander, Amphibious Group ONE, the commander provides oversight for the operations and planning, personnel, maintenance, logistics, training, and communications of the units, all of which are forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan, unless otherwise indicated: As Commander, Amphibious Force, U.S. Seventh Fleet, the Commander is Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet's primary Navy advisor on amphibious matters in the Seventh Fleet Area of Operations (AOR), and conducts a number of bi- and multi-lateral exercises each year in support of Commander In Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet's Cooperative Engagement Strategy. As Commander, Task Force Seven Six, the Commander is responsible for the conduct of amphibious operations support of a full range of theater contingencies, ranging from humanitarian and disaster relief operations, to full combat operations. Additionally, he exercises operational control of the explosive ordnance technicians of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit FIVE, the SEALS of Naval Special Warfare Unit, both based in Guam, and finally, Mine Countermeasures Squadron ONE, based out of Ingleside, TX., and which includes USS Patriot and USS Guardian. Finally, as Commander, Maritime Prepositioned Force, the Commander is in charge of Military Sealift Command maritime prepositioning ships during exercises or real-world contingencies. The headquarters for Amphibious Group ONE is based out of White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. The command also maintains a separate, smaller staff group, under the guidance of the Deputy Commander based out of Sasebo in the southern portion of the island of Kyushu. Both staffs work for Amphibious Group One, which in turn, works for the Seventh Fleet Commander. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibgru1.htm   No matter the size of the conflict, no matter what the escalation of the international situation, the expeditionary warfare capabilities of CTF 76 provides a complete spectrum of a multi-purpose force — a range of options from which the action can be tailored to any situation. CTF 76 assets operate "forward…from the sea" to deter aggression by its presence, but always remain ready to immediately project a force that can quickly and decisively neutralize any adversary. CTF 76’s mission is immense, complex, challenging, and occasionally dangerous. The ultimate objective is to help maintain peace and stability and protect our vital interests in the Pacific. In that venture, a flexible and powerful U.S. Navy force serves permanently forward deployed, ready to meet any challenge or tasking from our leaders. The forward deployed naval assets encompassing CTF 76 are credible, shaped to meet any task at hand, and can quickly surge to meet emergent situations. http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Mission%20and%20History/Mission.aspx Command History http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Mission%20and%20History/History.aspx   Commander, Amphibious Squadron Eleven Amphibious Task Force - CTF76 COMPHIBRON ELEVEN (COMPHIBRON) 11 COMPHIBRON 11 PHIBRON ELEVEN Amphibious Squadron ELEVEN (CPR 11) Amphibious Squadron 11 (CPR 11) http://www.cpr11.navy.mil/default.aspx http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron11.htm Amphibious Squadron ELEVEN's immediate superior in the chain of command is (COMEXSTRKGRU) SEVEN. http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/default.aspx PHIBRON ELEVEN SHIP'S AND SUPPORT UNITS are forward deployed at Sasebo, Japan ships include the flagship USS Essex (LHD-2), the alternate flagship, USS Juneau (LPD-10), USS Tortuga (LSD-46) and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD-49). http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Ships%20and%20Commands/CPR11.aspx http://www.cpr11.navy.mil/site%20pages/ships.aspx PHIBRON ELEVEN SHIP'S AND SUPPORT UNITS Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) [ESXESG]                   USS Essex (LHD-2) "Iron Gator" http://www.essex.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Essex (LHD 2) http://www.navy.mil/local/lhd2 USS Essex (LHD 2) Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=325 USS Essex (LHD-2) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/08/0802.htm USS ESSEX ASSOCIATION http://www.ussessexcv9.org USS Essex (LHD-2) History http://navysite.de/ships/lha3.htm       Essex Amphibious Ready Group [ESXESG] http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lhd-2.htm Sasebo, Japan USS Essex (LHD-2) Deployment History http://www.uscarriers.net/lhd2.htm History of USS Essex http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Historytext.aspx America was young. While struggling to establish economic and political stability under the new constitution, the United States faced continued threats from French naval forces against a new and thriving maritime industry.  To protect these interests, Congress passed several acts to establish a token naval force; and on June 30, 1798, the act was passed which enabled Essex to be built.  This act allowed the President to accept vessels of war from private citizens on the credit of the United States.  In response to this action, 23 citizens of Salem, in the county of Essex, Massachusetts, opened a “Patriotic Subscription” on July 17, 1798, to build a vessel of war for the United States of America. On October 25, 1798, a meeting of the first Essex sponsors was held to determine the type of vessel to be built.  From the Salem Gazette of October 26, 1798, came the following announcement which read in part: “At a meeting in this town on Tuesday last, of those gentlemen who have subscribed to build a ship for the service of the United States, it was voted unanimously to build a frigate of 32 guns, and to loan the same to the government…” A month later, the frigate’s builder, Enoch Briggs, advertised for shipbuilding materials in a ringing appeal: “Take Notice! Ye sons of freedom! Step forth and give your assistance in building the frigate to oppose French insolence and piracy! Let every man in possession of a white oak tree feel ambitious to be foremost in hurrying down the timber to Salem…where noble structure is to be fabricated and maintain your rights upon the seas and make the name of America respected among the nations of the world!  Your longest and largest trees are wanted…four trees are wanted for the keel, which altogether measure 146 feet in length, and hew 16 inches square.  Please call on the subscriber, who…will pay the ready cash.” The frigate was launched on September 30, 1799, before a crowd of 12,000 people.  The expected war with France did not materialize, but in the War of 1812, the first Essex compiled a battle record unequaled by any other man-of-war and by the close of 1813, Essex was the only vessel of worth to be operating (all others having been captured, damaged, or sunk). The second Essex, an ironclad steamer, was built in 1856 for use as a ferry.  Originally NEW ERA, she was renamed Essex following purchase by the War Department on September 20, 1861.  She participated in action against the Confederate forces on the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers. She was decommissioned on July 20, 1865. The third ESSEX, a wooden-screw steamer, was built by the United States at East Boston, Massachusetts, and was commissioned on October 3, 1876.  Essex saw action with the North and South Atlantic Squadrons and on the Pacific and Asian stations.  She returned to New York via the Suez Canal and was placed out of commission in May 1889. The fourth Essex was an aircraft carrier (CV 9) and was built as the lead ship in a class of World War II aircraft carriers. Commissioned in December 1942, she reported to the Pacific Fleet following shakedown cruises and embarked on a series of victorious battles that would take her to Tokyo Bay.  As the flagship of Task Force 14, CV 9 struck Wake Island in October 1943, launched an attack on the Gilbert Islands, and participated in her first amphibious assault (against Tarawa) in November.  Essex then moved on to the Marshall Islands, Truk and the Marianas, Saipan, Tinian, and Guam in early 1944. In the closing days of the war, Essex took part in the telling raids against the Japanese home islands.  She was decommissioned in 1947, then modernized and re-commissioned in 1951, with a new flight deck and streamlined superstructure.  As flagship for Carrier Division 1, she was the first carrier to launch twin-engine F2H “Banshee” jet fighters in support of troops in Korea.  She was reclassified (CVA 9) on October 1, 1952. Following her Korean action, she was again modernized, this time with an angled flight deck, and saw duty in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets in the late 1950s. In 1960, ESSEX was converted to an ASW support carrier, reclassified (CVS 9) and participated in various NATO exercises.  On October 22, 1968, Essex recovered the Apollo 7 astronauts in the Atlantic and was decommissioned July 30, 1969. Over her 27 year career, Essex was credited with sinking 92 and damaging 217 ships and destroying 1,564 aircraft.  The Navy’s top ace of WWII, Medal of Honor winner Commander David McCampbell, flew from the deck of the Essex, shooting down 34 enemy planes.  She received the Presidential Unit Citation and 13 battle starts for WWII service (equaled by none in her class; only Enterprise earned more), and the Navy Unit Commendation and four battle stars for action in Korea. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Historytext.aspx USS Essex (LHD-2) is the fifth U.S. ship to proudly carry the Essex name. The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship continues to strive for excellence, reflect the high standards of the United States and establish the Essex name in history. Essex is the second ship to be commissioned in the WASP-class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships. ESSEX’ keel was laid on March 20, 1989, at Pascagoula, Miss.  Two years later, the ship was christened and began a series of performance trials leading up to commissioning on October 17, 1992 in San Diego, California. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Current%20History.aspx USS ESSEX (LHD-2) is the second ship in the all new WASP (LHD-1) class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and was commissioned on October 17, 1992 in San Diego, CA. The mission of the ESSEX is to conduct prompt, sustained combat operations at sea, as the centerpiece of the Navy's amphibious strategy...From the Sea. USS ESSEX (LHD-2) is safe, trained and ready to fight. ESSEX' mission is to conduct prompt, sustained combat operations at sea, as the centerpiece of the Navy's amphibious strategy of Forward ... From the Sea. ESSEX provides the means to deliver, command and support all elements of a Marine Landing Force in an assault by air and amphibious craft. In carrying out her mission, ESSEX has the option of utilizing various combinations of helicopters, Harrier II (AV-8B) Jump Jets and air cushion landing craft (LCAC), as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles, illustrating the LHD's flexibility. ESSEX can also provide command and control and aircraft facilities for sea control missions, while operating with an aircraft carrier battle group. ESSEX will transport and land ashore not only troops, but also the tanks, trucks, jeeps, other vehicles, artillery, ammunition and various supplies necessary to support the amphibious assault mission. Monorail trains, moving at speeds up to 600 feet per minute, transport cargo and supplies from storage and staging areas throughout the ship to a 13,600 square foot well deck which opens to the sea through huge gates in the ship's stern. There, the cargo, troops and vehicles are loaded aboard landing craft for transit to the beach. Air cushion landing craft can "fly" out of the dry well deck; or the well deck can be ballasted down for conventional craft to float out on their way to the assault area. Helicopter flights also transfer troops and equipment to the beach, while the ship's air traffic control capability simultaneously directs close air tactical support provided by embarked jet aircraft and helicopter gunships. The ship's extensive medical facilities consist of six medical operating rooms, four dental operating rooms, medical laboratories and hospital facilities capable of caring for 600 patients. ESSEX is second only to the Navy's hospital ships in medical support capability, providing effective care to returning troops under battle conditions, or disaster relief in support of humanitarian missions during peacetime. ESSEX is designed to carry a full range of Navy and Marine Corps helicopters, Harrier II (AV-8B) Jump Jets, Air Cushion Landing Craft (LCAC), and many other landing craft and amphibious vehicles. ESSEX is 844 feet long, with two steam propulsion plants to drive the 44,000 ton ship to speeds in excess of 24 knots. The ship's living spaces can support 3,200 crew members and embarked troops. The ESSEX departed San Diego on her maiden deployment on October 25, 1994 during which, was a major participant in the withdrawal of the Multinational force from Somalia in Operation United Shield. After a short Maintenance period, ESSEX embarked on a vigorous workup cycle, culminating in her participation in RIMPAC ’96, a biennial, seven-nation naval exercise. On October 10, 1996, she embarked on her second Western Pacific deployment, with the 11th MEU (SOC) and Amphibious Squadron FIVE. During the deployment, ESSEX participated in multinational exercises with Qatar, Oman and Kuwait, as well as Exercise Tandem Thrust ’97, an American-Australian combined exercise with over 28,000 troops, 250 aircraft and 40 vessels participating. Upon her return in April 1997, ESSEX again went into a short maintenance period, followed by a shortened workup cycle. She then departed for her third Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf deployment on June 22, 1998 with the 15th MEU (SOC) and Amphibious Squadron FIVE. ESSEX participated in Exercises Sea Soldier and Red Reef, and participated in Military SALT and Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations with the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait. Additionally, ESSEX supported Operation Southern Watch, enforcing the UN-mandated no-fly zone in southern Iraq. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lhd-2.htm Designed to be versatile, Essex has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC), as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations. LHDs missions, while operating with an aircraft carrier battle group. The ship's extensive medical facilities consist of six medical operating rooms, four dental operating rooms, medical laboratories and hospital facilities capable of caring for 600 patients. In carrying out its primary mission, the 844-foot long, 44,000-ton Essex will transport and land ashore troops, tanks, trucks, artillery, and other supplies necessary to support an assault. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Ship%20Mission.aspx After commissioning in 1992, Essex conducted an arduous and highly successful training program, leading to her maiden deployment Oct. 1994 from its original homeport in San Diego, Calif. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lhd-2-forwarddeployed.htm In 1993, Amphibious Squadron FIVE was summoned to the troubled nation of Somalia. Operations SHOW CARE and MORE CARE, as well as continuing support for the joint forces ashore, earned the squadron another Meritorious Unit Award. The ESSEX departed San Diego with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Special Operations Capable, (SOC) embarked. on her maiden deployment on October 25, 1994 during which, was a major participant in the withdrawal of the Multinational force from Somalia in Operation United Shield. Essex (LHD 2) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with Amphibious Squadron FIVE embarked returned home in April 1995 after completing its first overseas deployment and overseeing the final withdrawal of United Nations peacekeepers from Somalia. Essex's western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf deployment began Oct. 25, 1994, and the ship served as the flagship for the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) under the command of Commodore Gary W. Stubbs, commander, Amphibious Squadron 5. The other ships in the Essex ARG were the amphibious transport dock USS Ogden (LPD 5) and the landing ship dock USS Fort Fisher (LSD 40). Marines embarked in the ARG were from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable)(MEU(SOC)), consisting of Battalion Landing Team 3/1, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161 (reinforced) and MEU Service Support Group 13. In late 1996 the USS Kitty Hawk Battle Group and the USS Essex ARG with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC) and Amphibious Squadron Five embarked departed on her second Western Pacific deployment and were forward deployed to a variety of regions for six months, including the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf. While deployed, they conducted multi-national operations, demonstrated operational primacy over the full spectrum of maritime warfighting operations, tested new technologies at sea and extended U.S. goodwill and ambassadorship with various nations. Rim-of-the-Pacific 1996 (RIMPAC 96) is a biennial exercise designed to enhance interoperability and proficiency of multinational and bilateral forces operating in response to short-notice littoral missions. The USS Essex ARG spent several months operating and training in the Arabian Gulf and conducting port visits in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Australia. USS Essex, USS Cleveland and USS Harpers Ferry participated in the Seventh Fleet exercise Tandem Thrust 97, a combined and joint exercise between the U.S. and Australian armed forces at the Shoal Water Bay training area in Queensland, Australia. More than 28 ships and 1200 Marines — including the Independence (CV 62) and Kitty Hawk (CV 63) carrier battle groups, the Essex (LHD 2) amphibious ready group with the 11th MEU (SOC) embarked, and U.S. Coast Guard vessels — participated in RIMPAC 96. The Amphibious ships USS Essex (LHD 2), USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) arrived in San Diego 10 April 1997. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron5.htm After a maintenance period and a short workup cycle on June 1998, ESSEX departed on her third Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf deployment with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC) and Amphibious Squadron Five. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Current%20History.aspx ESSEX departed San Diego in July 2000 to replace USS BELLEAU WOOD (LHA 3), which became the new forward deployed amphibious assault ship in Sasebo, Japan;  successfully completing the largest hull swap in U. S. Navy history.  USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3) was the third ship in the TARAWA - class and the first amphibious assault ship homeported outside the United States. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lhd-2-forwarddeployed.htm ESSEX then inherited the distinctive role as the Navy’s only forward-deployed multi-purpose amphibious assault ship in Sasebo, Japan. In that role, ESSEX participated in humanitarian assistance/disaster relief operations in East Timor in October and November 2001, and participated in Exercises Tandem Thrust in Australia in 2001 and Foal Eagle in Korea in 2002. In April 2003 the USS Essex deployed as the flagship of the Navy's first expeditionary strike group while taking part in the biennial joint exercise Tandem Thrust 2003 off the Mariana Islands. Designated Expeditionary Strike Group - Forward Deployed Naval Force (ESG-FDNF) the ESG was part of a 17-ship force, including the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Battle Group, participating in TT-03. During half the exercise, Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Timothy Ghormley was in command of the ESG, and during the other half Rear Adm. Rick Ruehe was ESG commander. The USS Essex (LHD 2) Amphibious Ready Group and 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit served as the core of the ESG-FDNF. The 31st MEU (SOC), USS Essex, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) and USS Juneau (LPD 10), were joined by USS Antietam (CG 54), USS O'Brien (DD 975), USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) and USS City Of Corpus Christi (SSN 705) to form the ESG-FDNF. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lhd-2-forwarddeployed.htm After completing Exercises Foal Eagle and Cobra Gold,  ESSEX departed in August 2004 for her fourth deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC).  ESSEX served as Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group Three (ESG 3) flagship. While on deployment to the Arabian Gulf in January 2005, ESSEX received additional tasking to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief in Indonesia for the victims of the Tsunami. ESSEX was again deployed for Humanitarian Assistance in February 2006 helping the survivors of the Leyte mudslide in the Philippines. In March 2006 ESSEX arrived at Iwo Jima to participate the 61st Anniversary of the historic World War II Battle. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Current%20History.aspx On July 26, 2000, Essex successfully completed the largest hull swap in U.S. Navy history with USS Belleau Wood (LHD-3) and inherited the role as the Navy's only forward deployed amphibious assault ship in Sasebo, Japan. While in this role, Essex has participated in humanitarian assistance/disaster relief operations in East Timor in 2001, provided immediate relief support following the Dec. 26, 2005 tsunami in southeast Asia during Operation Unified Assistance, and completed a seven-month surge deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in the North Arabian Gulf in 2005 as well as numerous multi-national, multi-force exercises throughout the Pacific region. http://www.ctf76.navy.mil/default.aspx ESSEX was called upon in November 2006 to provide security, medical and communication support to the President of the United States during his visit to Jakarta, Indonesia. In March 2006 ESSEX arrived at Iwo Jima to participate the 61st Anniversary of the historic World War II Battle. ESSEX was called upon in November 2006 to provide security, medical and communication support to the President of the United States during his visit to Jakarta, Indonesia. Continuing to lead U.S. Navy’s strategic engagement initiative, in 2007 ESSEX successfully conducted combined operations with the Republic of Korea, Philippines, and Australia. http://www.essex.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Current%20History.aspx Essex ESG Completes Certification Exercises Story Number: NNS080314-05 Release Date: 3/14/2008 11:54:00 AM By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Ty Swartz, USS Essex Public Affairs USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- Commander Task Force (CTF) 76 successfully completed Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) Certification during exercises off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, March 14. The four-day process further developed the Essex ESG's ability to operate in an integrated or coalition force environment. The flag staff of CTF 76 embarked the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and exercised operational command over nine different ships and units including Commander Amphibious Squadron 11, Essex, the dock landing ship USS Juneau (LPD 10), and the guided missile destroyers USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) and USS Chafee (DDG 90). During the certification, the ships worked together to defend the ESG from simulated aggression such as surface, subsurface and computer network attacks. Certification as an ESG is a graduate-level exercise that tests the commander's ability to effectively conduct command and control over warfare commanders and units, according to Rear Adm. David Philman, commander, Strike Force Training Pacific. "This certification was conducted during three distinct exercises over a period of two months, including Balikatan, Key Resolve, and the ESG Certification," said Philman. "Essex Strike Group performed well during the three phases of their certification." "The keys to success for the certification recommendation that we provide to C7F are threefold: Strong leadership throughout the Strike Group, sound processes, which were refined over the past two months, and solid execution," he added. An ESG combines the capability of amphibious assault and landing ships with an embarked Marine Expeditionary Unit, two or more cruiser/destroyer-type ships, and sometimes a submarine. According to CTF 76 Commander, Rear Adm. Carol Pottenger, the ESG Certification tested every aspect of the ESG's warfighting capabilities. "This certification allows us to operate as an Expeditionary Strike Group with escorts, cruisers and destroyers assigned in any number of venues, as a fully capable strike force," she said. The ESG has the flexibility to conduct a wide range of missions from landing force operations in a hostile maritime environment to humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Under most circumstances, the ESG is led by a Navy captain and a Marine colonel in a mutually supporting relationship. When necessary, a flag or general officer will embark and assume tactical command and control over warfare commanders and units. "We demand a lot from our carrier and expeditionary strike groups, and the fleet commanders have high expectations for the performance of each strike group," said Philman. "This expectation is based on well established standards, and it is these standards (to which) we train, and the fleet commanders certify." Pottenger welcomes the training process, adding that unlike ships in the states that certify to go on deployment, Essex ESG is continuously forward deployed, so the ESG Certification is actually a method to increase the Strike Group's already high level of readiness. "The challenge for us is that we don't get the types of workups that the CONUS (Continental United States) expeditionary strike groups get," said Pottenger. "They get several weeks if not months operating with their strike group and then they are certified at the end of that period of workups. We have no workup period with our escorts; we just go out and do it." Essex ESG departed Sasebo, Japan for its annual spring patrol throughout the Western Pacific region, Jan 24. Essex is the lead ship of the only forward deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76; the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. CTF-76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa with an operating detachment in Sasebo. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35749 Nimitz and Essex Strike Groups complete Expeditionary Strike Force training By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Ty Swartz, USS Essex Public Affairs and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexander Ameen, USS Nimitz Public Affairs Posted: 03/17/2008 AT SEA – The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) conducted an Expeditionary Strike Force (ESF) exercise with the USS Essex (LHD 2) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) March 14-16. The ESF training brought together the two strike groups to test their ability to plan and conduct multi-task operations across a broad spectrum of naval disciplines. “This training provided us the opportunity to refresh our skills in executing complex missions that require capabilities broader in scope than those provided by an individual strike group,” said Rear Adm. Terry Blake, commander, Carrier Strike Group 11. “Successfully completing these training exercises ensures the ESF is ready to operate effectively as a joint maritime force to satisfy the broad array of 7th Fleet missions.” One of the benefits of ESF training is the preparation that it provides both Strike Groups. “This enhances our ability in the future where a situation may come up and we’re both deployed to the same area and we’ve practiced together,” said Lt. Ryan Tashma, an operations officer from Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, embarked aboard Nimitz. “There are things [the Essex ESG] do differently, and things we do differently from them. The fact that we get to exercise together now gives us the ability to interact in the future more seamlessly.” Participating in ESF training tests the ability of the participating ships to operate in a complex environment and hone their maritime skills. Consistent and continuous training allows the U.S. 7th Fleet to maintain readiness to accomplish assigned missions. “Whether it’s the type of capabilities that a Carrier Strike Group brings or the type of capabilities - which really is our Marines, Harriers, and helicopters - that an Expeditionary Strike Group brings, ESF training enhances our ability to operate effectively as a joint maritime force in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility,” said Rear Adm. Carol Pottenger, commander, Amphibious Forces 7th Fleet. The ESF training event was scheduled many months ago in order to coincide with the Nimitz CSG deployment to the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. The Essex ESG is on their spring patrol deployment and recently completed Exercise Balikatan 2008 with the Republic of the Philippines. The two Strike Groups took advantage of their time together by practicing basic flight maneuvering, air defense and surface support mission exercises. “We do close-air support exercises as well that simulate real world scenarios the ship may encounter,” said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Garcia, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 strike officer. Coordinating the large number of ships and aircraft involved in the ESF exercise was a true “team effort,” Tashma said. “There were weeks of planning by the strike group staff, DESRON staff, ship’s company, the air wing and [operations officers] from the different ships,” Tashma said. “One of the big issues is, you’ve got our aircraft and you’ve got their aircraft and not a whole lot of actual air space. You have to really plan to make sure everyone’s on the same page.” “Training that we do as an ESF is nothing new, it’s training that we do each year,” said Capt. Anthony Pachuta, commander, Amphibious Squadron 11. “The last time we worked with a carrier strike group as an expeditionary strike group was last year during Exercise Talisman Saber 2007 in Australia.” During Exercise Talisman Saber 2007, the Essex ESG worked with the Kitty Hawk CSG and the Australian navy, improving interoperability between the CSG and ESG as well as between the United States and Australia. “It’s always hard communicating between two ships with this type of activity going on,” said Garcia. “We sent representatives from our air wing over [to Essex] and they sent representatives here, who help us overcome any communications obstacles.” This ESF exercise is the first for the Essex ESG since it began operating under the Navy’s new guidelines for Expeditionary Strike Groups, but it is the second multi-strike group training for the Nimitz CSG in less than a year. Last year the Nimitz CSG joined the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) Strike Groups to conduct ESF training in the Arabian Gulf. The Nimitz CSG is comprised of Commander, CSG 11, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Nimitz; its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11; embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23; the guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59); the guided-missile destroyers USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53), USS Higgins (DDG 76), and USS Chafee (DDG 90); Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 49 “Scorpions,” (HSL) 37 “Easy Riders”; and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 11. CVW-11’s squadrons include the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, the “Black Aces” of VFA-41, the “Sunliners” of VFA-81, the “Wallbangers” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117, the “Red Devils” of Marine Corps Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 232, the “Black Ravens” of Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 135, the “Providers” of Carrier Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 and the “Indians” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 6. The Nimitz CSG departed on a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment Jan. 24. Essex ESG departed Sasebo, Japan, for its annual spring patrol throughout the Western Pacific region, Jan 24. Essex is the lead ship of the only forward deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for Combined Task Force 76; the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. CTF-76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan. http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2008/03/13.htm Essex Sailors Take Aim Story Number: NNS080430-14 Release Date: 4/30/2008 1:11:00 PM By Mass Communciation Specialist 2nd Class David Didier, USS Essex Public Affairs OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Sailors from the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) took the opportunity to enhance their qualifications in small arms training, April 28. The Sailors utilized the mobile shooting range at Command Fleet Activities Okinawa, during the ships on load of Marines prior to departure for the second half of their spring patrol. Utilizing the facilities in Okinawa gave Sailors the opportunity to train in a more controlled environment as opposed to weapons shoots conducted on the flight deck of a rocking ship. "The benefit of shooting here is that it provides an easier training environment for Sailors," said Chief Gunner's Mate (SW/AW) Erik Griggs. "We don't have to worry about small craft being in the firing zones and it allows for a safer training environment for the Sailors." The range is not what most would consider a traditional firing range. From the outside it looks like a normal 45-foot trailer, but inside is an air conditioned, sound proof, computer-operated, three-lane firing range. The trailer's design and location allow the Sailors to qualify as armed watch standers during the brief time they are in Okinawa. "Shooting on the ship is really rocky and you are trying to keep the weapon safe and keep it steady, but when you're in the range you're stationary and you're able to focus more, you can see clearly and you don't have the distractions that you would have if you were outside on the flight deck of the ship," said Boatswain's Mate Seaman Michael Flournoy. The increased effectiveness of using the on-site range allows the range coach to have a more one-on-one approach with the shooters. "I thought I felt good at first with my shooting style," said Flournoy. "But then when I got in there the range coach had me try firing from my left hand instead of my right and I found out that I shot better because I am left eye dominant." The mobile trailers have been around for a number of years; however, Essex has only started using them this past year to train Sailors and qualify them as armed watch standers. "Using the mobile range helps us maintain gun qualifications for our ship's security force and watch standers without having to wait till we get back to Sasebo," added Griggs. "This is also less challenging than using the flight deck to get these guys re-qualified on the weapons. Maintaining these Sailors' gun qualifications is essential for protecting the ship and the personnel on board." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36736 Essex Welcomes 31st MEU Story Number: NNS080430-06 Release Date: 4/30/2008 10:42:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Didier, USS Essex Public Affairs OKINAWA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Okinawa, April 27, to embark Sailors and Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), for their annual Spring Patrol throughout East and Southeast Asia. The 31st MEU embarked Essex as part of the Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESX ESG) with more than 1,500 Marines, Sailors and their equipment. Essex Sailors and Marines along with the 31st MEU Landing Support Detachment worked diligently to on-load and store more than 1,500 tons of supplies, vehicles and weapon systems in spaces aboard Essex. The cargo was sorted and arranged for quick off-load to support amphibious operations. During the extensive on-load, Marines and Sailors worked as a team using cranes, forklifts and other equipment to move gear into the living quarters and work centers as well as working to ensure all cargo was secured for sea. "The on-load went very well, all the vehicles and cargo are where they needed to be," said Gunnery Sgt. Shawn Chaffin. "Everything was staged on the pier ready for us to unload to the ship when we pulled in making the transition from shore to ship easy." As Marines boarded the ship, they asked Sailors about what they might expect to see in Thailand since this is a first trip for most. The Marines will particpate in exercise Cobra Gold, which is an annual bilateral exercise with Thailand. The exercise is designed to build relationships and enhance operational readiness between the two partner nations. "I'm looking forward to working with the Thai military and learning some of their tactics as well as survival skills," said Lance Cpl. Spencer Rumfelt. "I have heard a lot of stories about some of the survival training and am looking forward to seeing it." For Essex Sailors, trips to Thailand are less of a rarity but still welcome none the less. "This is going to be my last deployment with Essex and I am happy to be able to see Thailand and Hong Kong again one last time," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) 3rd Class Frank Rodriguez. "In the air department we work very closely with the Marines on a daily basis and it's good to have them back on board." Essex departed Sasebo, Japan for its spring patrol throughout the Western Pacific region, Jan. 24. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36735 Essex Sailors and Marines Stay Cool While Transiting to CG 08 Story Number: NNS080505-30 Release Date: 5/5/2008 4:21:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kari R. Bergman, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Detachment Japan USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- As the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) makes its way to Thailand for Cobra Gold 2008 (CG 08) the heat is increasing, causing more and more Sailors and Marines to retreat into the ship to cool down. Little do the Sailors and Marines aboard know about the combined efforts of Engineering Department's A-division and several skilled damage control petty officers (DCPO's) who have worked over the past several days to properly clean the air cooling units in the fan rooms throughout the ship to help keep the temperature low. "When we are all finished throughout the ship a lot of people will be a lot cooler," said Master Chief Machinist's Mate (SW) John Rinehart. Keeping the air conditioning boundaries closed assists the cooling units by keeping the spaces throughout the ship cooler, so the air conditioning unit doesn't have to work as hard. "Without the A/C boundaries around the ship, we are just basically cooling off the outside instead of cooling the inside of the ship," said Capt. Troy L. Hart, executive officer of Essex. "The object here is to let the air conditioning unit work the way it's designed without having to cool the outside world." Rinehart explained that simply changing out or cleaning disposable air filters every three months as instructed in the Navy's Planned Maintenance System could minimize the amount of time needed to clean the entire air unit. "We are currently doing a lot of maintenance on the ventilation and air conditioning systems themselves to make them more efficient through the ship," said Hart. "By just doing preventive maintenance you can avoid having to take extra time out of your day to unclog the entire system," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Brandon Ritze, who participated in cleaning a heating/cooling unit. Rinehart explained the filters prevent dirt from getting into the cooling unit, so the DCPOs need to make sure and do their checks. "If a new filter isn't installed then the filter will become clogged up and it is just a spiraling effect of rising temperatures because the filter isn't doing its proper job," said Rinehart. "As an IT, [information systems technician] we have a lot of special equipment that needs to stay cool and without the cooling system running properly then our systems heat up and we run the risk of ruining hundreds of dollars of equipment," said Ritze. "The key thing to remember is that the process of making sure the cooling units continue to work is a team effort throughout the ship," said Rinehart. Essex is currently preparing for CG 08. CG 08 is a Thai/U.S.-sponsored military exercise designed to enhance interoperability between joint U.S. forces and the combined forces of U.S., Thai, Singaporean, Japanese and Indonesian militaries. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36858 USS Essex Group/ 31st MEU Returning to Previously Scheduled Operations Story Number: NNS080604-06 Release Date: 6/4/2008 12:16:00 PM From Commander, U.S. Pacific Command Public Affairs CAMP H.M. SMITH, Hawaii (NNS) -- The USS Essex group has been positioned off the coast of Burma since May 13, ready and able to deliver urgently needed humanitarian assistance to the victims of Cyclone Nargis, but Burma's ruling military junta has repeatedly rebuffed our offers to help. Therefore, the commander of U.S. Pacific Command, Adm. Timothy J. Keating, recommended to the U.S. Secretary of Defense that the USS Essex group and U.S. Marine Corps 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) should continue with their previously scheduled operational commitments June 5. The Secretary of Defense approved this recommendation. "Over the past three weeks we have made at least 15 attempts to convince the Burmese government to allow our ships, helicopters, and landing craft to provide additional disaster relief for the people of Burma, but they have refused us each and every time. It is time for the USS Essex group to move on to its next mission. However, we will leave several heavy lift aircraft in place in Thailand so as to continue to support international community efforts to deliver aid," Keating said. The Essex ships will now head to the coast of Thailand to backload their remaining helicopters and personnel on June 11. "However", said Keating, "should the Burmese rulers have a change of heart and request our full assistance for their suffering people we are prepared to help." The United States government quickly responded after Nargis hit Burma on May 2. Since then, USAID and the Department of Defense, working closely with ASEAN, the United Nations and other non-governmental organizations, have completed a total of 106 airlifts carrying more than 2 million pounds of emergency relief supplies, benefiting at least 417,000 people. Admiral Keating flew to Rangoon, Burma, on the first U.S. military relief flight May 12, along with Director of U.S. Foreign Assistance and USAID Administrator Henrietta Fore. While there, Keating hand-delivered a letter to Burma's leaders offering additional humanitarian assistance with heavy lift helicopters and landing craft capable of reaching areas inaccessible by road, as well as water-making and purification capability and medical assistance. He also extended an offer to the military junta to visit U.S. ships in international waters and to fly on U.S. military relief flights in an effort to help ease any concerns they might have regarding U.S. humanitarian assistance and intentions. But to date, the forces and assets of Joint Task Force Caring Response, including the four-ship Essex Group, 22 medium and heavy lift helicopters, four landing craft and more than 5,000 U.S. military personnel remain idle as the military junta in Burma ignores diplomatic offers of expanded humanitarian assistance to its people. "I am both saddened and frustrated to know that we have been in a position to help ease the suffering of hundreds of thousands of people and help mitigate further loss of life, but have been unable to do so because of the unrelenting position of the Burma military junta," Keating said. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37619 USS ESSEX “Gator Cruise 2008,” scheduled to depart Fleet Activities Sasebo on August 7, 2008 and arrive at Naval Base, Yokosuka on August 9, 2008. “Gator Cruise 2008” is our name for this special guest cruise program. Due to periodic openings in our operational schedule, ESSEX is occasionally permitted to embark relatives of crewmembers and command invited guests (“Gators”), eight years of age and older, for brief transits between authorized ports. This year’s Gator Cruise will enable guests to enjoy the transit from Sasebo to Yokosuka. Gator Cruise provides the opportunity for our families to see and participate in our daily shipboard routine. The crew of USS ESSEX (LHD 2) is very excited about our upcoming Gator Cruise and we hope you will consider joining us. http://www.essex.navy.mil/default.aspx Essex Participates in Sasebo Seaside Festival By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public Affairs Posted: August 7, 2008 SASEBO, Japan — Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) invited members of the local community onboard during a series of ship tours as part of the Sasebo City Seaside Festival while in port, Aug. 3. Essex provides tours to the Japanese public as often as their schedule allows, helping strengthen U.S.-Japanese intercultural relations and providing an opportunity for local Japanese people to get up close and personal with the ship. The Sasebo City Seaside Festival gave Essex the opportunity to open its doors to new segments of the Japanese community. Many Japanese people have traveled hundreds of miles to visit Sasebo for the festival, giving Essex the ability to positively impact different areas of the Japanese community. "It's a good way for them to get a better understanding of us," said Lt. Cmdr. David McNutt, Essex assistant supply officer. "It gives them a chance to see the ship and meet some of the Sailors. It's really about community relations." During the tours, Japanese visitors saw Essex from top to bottom, including the ship's hangar bay, medical and dental departments, and flight deck. For many, this was not the first time they had been onboard a Navy ship. "I love coming onto Navy ships," said Akio Nishimura of Nagasaki, Japan, who also visited the amphibious assault ship USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3), when it was forward-deployed to Sasebo. "I'm very happy to meet all of the Sailors here, and I thank them for the Japanese-American friendship." For others, like Megume Araki of Kurume City, Japan, it was a first-time experience. Araki, who works as a nurse at a hospital in Kurume City, said she was astonished to see a medical facility that offers such a wide range of treatments. "They have everything they need to treat people for almost anything," she said, "and it's all right there in one place." Araki said that visiting the ship has given her a new perspective on the Navy and its role in the Pacific. "It's a lot different than what you see on television or in the movies," she said. "I want to bring all of my friends here so they can see what the American military is like. Many Japanese people have no idea because they don't have the chance to see something like this." McNutt agreed that educating and interacting with the local community is an essential aspect of intercultural relations. "It has a huge impact," said McNutt. "For many Japanese people, these tours provide the opportunity for them to witness firsthand what the US Navy is all about." Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for CTF 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan. http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2008/08/04.htm _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
Back to top
All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First

Related topics
Topics		Replies	Author	Views	Last Post
•	Announcement: FAQ about the Board Founder	10	Outsider	2884	Sat Dec 22, 2007 1:18 am Outsider
•	Announcement: Forum rules and code of conduct	10	Outsider	4045	Fri Oct 26, 2007 8:29 am Outsider
•	Announcement: Guidelines for interacting with Military personell	4	Outsider	972	Mon Aug 27, 2007 7:01 pm Outsider
•	Announcement: Posting Rule changes, updated:17 November 2006	0	Outsider	1335	Fri Nov 17, 2006 8:24 pm Outsider
•	Sticky: OPSEC & PERSEC	0	Outsider	4246	Fri Oct 27, 2006 9:32 am Outsider

EQNEED  is in no way endorsed or supported by the US government Dept. Of Defense Or ANY branch of

of the United States military.

In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, any copyrighted work on this message board is being distributed under fair use without profit or payment to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for non-profit research and educational or criticism purposes only. Not withstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work including such use by reproduction in copies or phono records or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is NOT an infringement.