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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 363 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 392 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Fri Jul 04, 2008 11:43 pm    Post subject: Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) - PHIBRON 3 · Quote Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) - PHIBRON 3 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 Commander, Amphibious Squadron Three Amphibious Task Force - West COMPHIBRON THREE (COMPHIBRON) 3 COMPHIBRON 3 PHIBRON THREE Amphibious Squadron THREE (CPR 3) Amphibious Squadron 3 (CPR 3) http://www.cpr3.navy.mil/default.aspx http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron3.htm Located in San Diego, California at the 32nd Street Naval Station, Amphibious Squadron Three (CPR 3) is the Command and Control Leg of the USS Peleliu (LHA 5) ESG (Expeditionary Strike Group), former ARG (Amphibious Readiness Group). Amphibious Squadrons are built much like an athletic team whose coaching and training staff remain permanently intact and receive athletes only for the season. The Core Staff serves as the "coaching staff" for the different units under its command. These units are referred to as Naval Support Elements or NSEs. They serve on this "team" for one year. A PHIBRON's NSE's consists of an Amphibious Assault Ship (LHD or LHA), an Amphibious Transport Dock (LPD), a Dock Landing Ship (LSD), a Fleet Surgical Team (FST-6), a Fleet Information Warfare Center detachment (FIWC), a Naval Beach Group detachment (NBG-2), a Search and Rescue detachment (HC SAR), an Explosive Ordinance Disposal detachment (EOD), a Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON), and a Naval Special Warfare Task Unit (NSWTU). All elements come together for six months of training then deploy for six months as a forward-deployed, self-sustaining Amphibious Task Force. Amphibious Squadron Three is subordinate to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3 or COMEXSTRKGRU THREE. http://www.esg3.navy.mil Focus on Expeditionary Strike Group 3 http://www.navy.mil/local/ESG%203 Amphibious Squadron THREE (CPR 3) was established on 1 October 1954.   Amphibious ships are assigned to a squadron, more precisely an amphibious squadron which originally began as a Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). Each amphibious squadron is designated by number and is comprised of an at-sea staff. Amphibious Squadron Three's primary mission is to plan and execute amphibious operations including embarkation, transit to an objective area, and assault under combat conditions employing the latest and most effective amphibious force doctrine.  CPR3 is prepared to perform a variety of tasks to support operational requirements and to control ships and forces when assigned for operations, exercises, and deployments. A tactical amphibious squadron's organization is unique.  Ships are assigned periodically to one of the tactical squadrons for specific operations or for temporary administrative purposes. The squadron staff functions for the commander in the operational readiness of each ship. The amphibious squadron commander with his staff is charged with responsibilities for planning and executing amphibious operations and deployments with a reinforced Marine Battalion. The amphibious squadron staff is capable of planning and executing amphibious assaults at the Marine Expeditionary Unit level with augmenting detachments from a Tactical Air Control Squadron, Naval Beach Group, Special Warfare Group, Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team, and Fleet Surgical Team. Additionally it serves as Naval Forces Commander in various Joint Task Force Operations. http://www.cpr3.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Mission.aspx Effective October 1, 1954 a realistic reorganization of Amphibious Force, Pacific Fleet, established the Staff of Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE.  In providing for greater operational unity, the Squadron Commander was assigned the administrative and operational control of the ships of Transport Squadron THREE and Landing Ship Squadron THREE.  Transport Squadron THREE consisted of heavy transport ships, the APA’s, AKA’s and LSD’s while Landing Ship Squadron THREE was comprised of LST’s.  Since its organization in 1954, Amphibious Squadron THREE developed further in late 1961 to include only the ships of Transport Squadron THREE.  Command/control over Landing Ship Squadron THREE was relinquished. BEFORE INCEPTION Amphibious Squadron THREE evolved from Transport Squadron ONE which was officially appointed in September, 1950 and which consisted of LSMR’s, APD’s and ARL’s, in addition to the transport and landing ships which were to comprise the 1954 Squadron.  Transport Squadron ONE participated heavily in the amphibious landings at Inchon and Wonsan, Korea during the last summer and fall of 1950.  These landings contributed materially to the logistical support of the forces ashore.  The Staff coordinated the unloading and dispatching of Navy and chartered vessels in the Wonsan Harbor. Following the Inchon and Wonsan operations, Transportation Squadron ONE planned and participated in the evacuation from Chinnampo to Pusan and the Hungnam redeployment.  The Squadron returned to the United States in June, 1951.  After a training and upkeep period, the Squadron deployed to the Western Pacific in November, 1952 for a nine month tour of duty.  During this tour the Staff of Transport Squadron ONE engaged in the amphibious operations BRONCO and MARLEX XVII.  In addition, the Staff was involved in various troop movements to Korea and the general redeployment in the Western Pacific area. The Staff returned to the Western Pacific on October 3, 1954 aboard the flagship USS GEORGE CLYMER (APA 27) with Captain Fritz Gleim, USN, as the first Commander of the newly designated Amphibious Squadron THREE.  The USS BAYFIELD (APA 33) was assigned as alternate flagship, assuming this function if operational commitments dictated.  The newly reorganized Staff was a working nucleus of approximately 20 officers and 40 enlisted men.  It was the duty of the Staff to assist the Squadron Commander in all matters relative to the administration of the ships in the Squadron such as their employment, training, readiness and material condition.  The Staff was deployed until March, 1955. After returning to the United States, several regimental sized amphibious landing exercises were conducted for training before again deploying to the Western Pacific under a new Squadron Commander, Captain Augustus ST. Angelo, USN.  The Squadron remained in the Pacific from October 1955 to April 1956. Captain Donald F. Krick, USN, relieved Captain ST. Angelo as Squadron Commander on March 15, 1956.  Captain Krick, in turn, relinquished his command to Captain Karl R. Wheland, USN, on October 18, 1956. Making the transit once again to the Far East, the Squadron arrived in the Western Pacific in February, 1957.  Captain Barry K. Atkins, USN, assumed command of the Squadron on April 12, 1957 in Yokosuka, Japan, relieving Captain Wheland.  In addition, Captain Atkins became Commander Amphibious Group, Western Pacific, having aviation and shore based amphibious units in the Western Pacific under his command.  During this deployment the Squadron participated with Amphibious Squadron FIVE in a division/wing amphibious landing exercise, Operation BEACON HILL, at Dingelen Bay in the Philippines.  Additional exercises, LUCKY TIGER and CIGAR BOX, provided valuable training for Republic of Korea and U.S. Army amphibious units.  Although a busy deployment, the USS TULARE (AKA 112) provided entertainment to the underprivileged children of Singapore and the USS BAYFIELD (APA 33) assisted in the salvage and refloating of the American merchantman SS GRAIN TRADER off the coast of Inchon. Returning to the United States in September, 1957, other deployments occurred from October, 1958 to March, 1959 under the command of Captain Harold E. Baker, USN, and from October, 1959 to April 1960 under the leadership of Captain Herbert G. Claudius, USN.  During the latter deployment, the Squadron participated in Operation Blue STAR, a division/wing landing exercise off the coast of Formosa. On March 30, 1960, Captain Jesse B. Gay, Jr., USN, assumed command of Amphibious Squadron THREE.  He relinquished his post to Captain Fletcher Hale, USN, on November 14, 1960.  During the ‘state-side’ period April, 1960 to June, 1961 the ships of the Squadron underwent overhauls and upkeep, had refresher training and participated in amphibious landing exercises. The Squadron deployed to the Western Pacific during the period June, 1961 to December, 1961, participated in Exercise SHARP EDGE off the coast of Korea and Exercise WARM-UP off the coast of Okinawa.   From January, 1962 until mid-October, 1962 the Squadron operated out of San Diego, participating in Exercise KEEL BLOCK in February and Exercise PACNARMIDLEX in August.  In October, under the command of Captain Victor H. Wildt, USN, the Squadron departed for the Western Pacific with Exercise CROSS BAR, a brigade landing in the Hawaiian area, planned while en route.  However, due to the Cuban crisis, which erupted, the exercise was canceled.   The USS RENVILLE (APA 227), the USS COLONIAL (LSD 18) and the USS WHETSTONE (LSD 27) were diverted to deploy to the Cuban area.  On December 4, 1962, Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE shifted his pennant to the USS CAVALIER (APA 37) and the USS GEORGE CLYMER (APA 27) became the flagship of Commander Amphibious Group ONE.  The Staff returned to the United States in May, 1963 after participating in Exercise DARK MOON, a surface amphibious assault under cold weather conditions to Chuminjin, Korea using a reinforced Battalion Landing Team.  On February 22, prior to returning, Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE shifted his pennant back to the USS GEORGE CLYMER (APA 27). On July 22, 1963, Captain Joseph D. Linehan, USN, assumed command of Amphibious Squadron THREE.  From May, 1963 until March, 1964, the Squadron remained in the homeport, San Diego, area for overhaul and local operations.  Exercise WEST WIND, with units of the U.S. Army, was conducted in Hawaii in April, 1964.  The Squadron departed San Diego again in June. Exercise TOOL BOX was conducted in Hawaii during June, 1964, while enroute to the Western Pacific area when the Gulf of Tonkin incident required the Squadron’s services in support of the crisis in South Vietnam.  While deployed, Captain S. A. Bobszynski, USN, relieved Captain Linehan as Squadron Commander on September 3, 1964.  The Squadron’s return to the United States was effected in December, 1964. After a brief holiday leave period, Amphibious Squadron THREE participated in Exercise SILVER LANCE, one of the largest peacetime exercises ever conducted, from February 23, 1965 to March 12, 1965.  During this exercise, the Squadron Commander directed the landing of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Brigade for seven amphibious ships. On May 25, 1965 the Squadron, with the exception of the USS CAVALIER and the USS WEISS, left San Diego for the Western Pacific, transporting Marine combat units to Okinawa and Iwakuni, Japan.  On the verge of returning home after completing this special lift, the Squadron Commander and selected members of his Staff were diverted, flying from Japan to Okinawa in order to coordinate load out operations for the lift of various Marine combat units to Danang, Vietnam.  As a finale to the planning, the Squadron landed elements of a Marine Division at Danang July 7-13, 1965.  The Squadron returned to the United States in August, 1965. In October, 1965 Captain T. R. Weschler, USN, became the Squadron Commander and was shortly thereafter notified of his selection to Rear Admiral.  From October, 1965, until January, 1966 the Staff, under the leadership of Captain Weschler, deployed to the South China Sea.   A cadre Staff remained in San Diego to provide administrative continuity due to the fact that the ships of the Squadron did not deploy.  From his flagship, the USS VALLEY FORGE (LPH 8), the Squadron Commander launched two highly successful amphibious raids against the Viet Cong while serving as the Commander of the Seventh Fleet Amphibious Ready Group.  Additionally, the Staff participated in Operation HARVEST MOON, providing the surprise amphibious ‘punch’ which characterizes an amphibious striking force.  Returning home to San Diego in January, 1966, the Staff had only a brief rest before deploying again in February with a full load of Marines, vehicles and cargo, destined for Vietnam.  Just prior to the deployment, Captain Gerald W. Ranhill, USN, relieved Captain Weschler as Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE. Under the command of Captain Rahill, the ships of the Squadron transported thousands of Marines and tons of bulk cargo and equipment to Vietnam.  Ships of the Squadron participated additionally in amphibious landing exercises off the coast of Okinawa, amphibious training for Republic of Korea troops and sea surveillance along the coast of Vietnam.  Rest and relaxation was provided to the combat Marines at Chu Lai, Vietnam when Amphibious Squadron THREE ships provided “support from the sea” in the form of hot meals, movies, laundry services and a good safe nights sleep in an air conditioned space.  During the cruise, ships of the Squadron visited various ports including Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Sasebo, Japan in promoting good will; two of the ships, with Staff embarked, crossed the equator. In July 1966 another reorganization of Commander Amphibious Force, Pacific Fleet, took place.  This provided for the organization of two additional amphibious squadrons in the Pacific Fleet, reducing the number of ships in the Squadron from eleven to seven.  The reorganization created more inherent flexibility in the Pacific Fleet Amphibious Force. The Squadron and Staff returned to San Diego during September and October 1966.  During the latter part of 1966, ships of the Squadron underwent type training and upkeep periods in their homeport area.  In January, 1967 USS RENVILLE (APA 227) was decommissioned and ships of the Squadron began periods of overhaul and yard work interspersed with independent training exercises. Also in January, the Staff in GEORGE CLYMER, in company with CAVALIER, enjoyed a weekend goodwill visit to Acapulco, Mexico as the highlight of a rigorous two-week training cruise. On March 20, Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE and Commander Amphibious Task Force sailed for Hawaii in CLYMER to conduct an amphibious landing exercise at Papohaku Beach on the island of Molokai, Hawaii.  The battalion size exercise took place April 3-7 with the First Battalion Twenty-seventh Marines of Kaneohe, Hawaii, a unit of the First Marine Brigade.  This was the first amphibious landing of the recently reformed Marine Battalion since February, 1945 when the Marines stormed Iwo Jima.  Returning to San Diego on April 20, the Squadron Staff continued to administer the Squadron ships, in readiness for future operations. On May 22, Captain Thomas C. Harbert Jr., USN, relieved Captain Rahill as Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE. As a versatile and modern force, the Squadron currently consists of six ships; the USS GEORGE CLYMER (APA 27), USS CAVALIER (APA 37), USS TULARE (AKA 112), USS COLONIAL (LSD 18), USS WHETSTONE (LSD 27) and the USS COMSTOCK (LSD 19).  COMSTOCK is new to Amphibious Squadron THREE, having joined the Squadron in July, 1966. Simply stated the mission of the Squadron is the transportation of Marines and their equipment.  However, this includes assault landings and the use of helicopters for vertical envelopment.  It requires the constant exercise of much skill and endurance by all hands.  Elements of the Squadron are constantly on call to serve in amphibious operations whether they are in the United States or in the Western Pacific. On September 16, Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE shifted his broad command pennant to USS CLEVELAND (LPD 7).  CLEVELAND had joined the Squadron on July 11, after commissioning April 21, at Pascagoula, Mississippi. Beginning in October ships of the Squadron began deployment to the Western Pacific.  As a versatile and modern force, the Squadron consisted of seven ships; the USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2), USS CAVALIER (APA 37), USS CLEVELAND (LPD 7), USS TULARE (AKA 112), USS COLONIAL (LSD 18), USS COMSTOCK (LSD 19) and the USS WHETSTONE (LSD 27).  USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2) was new to Amphibious Squadron THREE, having joined the Squadron in September.  On 1 November, USS GEORGE CLYMER (APA 27), Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE flagship for many years was decommissioned. Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE, Captain Thomas C. Harbert, JR., and his staff, arrived in the Western Pacific in early November 1967 and assumed duties as Commander Amphibious Ready Group ALFA (CTG 76.2) on 15 November, having shifted his broad command pennant to USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2), from where he directed the Task group consisting of four amphibious ships and nearly four thousand men.  Embarked in the Task Group were Commander Special Landing Force ALFA, a Marine Battalion Landing Team, and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron.  Captain Harbert directed three amphibious operations against Viet Cong insurgents and North Vietnamese armed forces infiltrated in the First Corps Tactical Zone of the Republic of Vietnam.  Under his command, Amphibious Ready group ALFA conducted operations BALLISTIC ARCH, BALLISTIC ARMOR, and FORTRESS ATTACK I/II.  In addition, Amphibious Ready Group ALFA, while supporting Marine Battalion Landing Team 2/3 in country operations, gained the reputation as “Ready Amphibians” while carrying out various contingency duties.  Among these were providing “Helo Haven” for First Marine Air Wing helicopters during high in-country threat periods, acting as “Boat Haven” for repair of Naval Support Activity, Danang, boats operating on the Cua Viet River, and providing logistics support on station Hospital Ships. Amphibious Squadron THREE ships IWO JIMA, and CLEVELAND, were assigned to Amphibious Ready Group ALFA for over six months during the deployment.  TULARE, COMSTOCK and WHETSTONE were assigned to Amphibious Ready Groups ALFA or BRAVO for lesser periods during the deployment.  During the cruise, ships of the Squadron visited various ports promoting good will and for rest and relaxation. The USS COOK (APD 130) was assigned to the Squadron in February 1968, and returned to EASTPAC in March after a six month deployment in Western Pacific. For their role as Commander Amphibious Ready Group ALFA from 15 November 1967 to 22 May 1968, Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE and his staff were awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation. The Squadron and Staff returned to San Diego during June 1968 for a much deserved leave and upkeep period, where they remained for the remainder of 1968. Two significant events marked the last half of 1968; the decommissioning of USS CAVALIER (APA 37) on 30 September 1968 and the Squadron change of command ceremony.  As the oldest PHIBPAC ship still in active service we were sorry to see CAVALIER go, but her crew could be proud of a job well done.  Then, on 20 November, Captain John B. Randolph, USN, became Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE, in a formal change of command ceremony aboard the squadron flagship, USS CLEVELAND (LPD 7). Commandore Randolph led the Squadron Staff and one of its ships, USS WHETSTONE (LSD 27), as CATF for BLTLEX 3-68 at Camp Pendleton, from 2 to 4 December 1968.  During November and December, the Squadron was enlarged by the administrative addition of three PHIBRON FIVE ships, USS PAUL REVERE (APA 248), USS SKAGIT (AKA 105), and USS PICKAWAY (APA 222), who remained in EASTPAC in upkeep and/or reduced status as PHIBRON FIVE deployed to WESTPAC.  As an eventful 1968 closed, squadron ships enjoyed holiday leave periods prior to commencement of extensive training in preparation for the next tour of duty in the Western Pacific and SEVENTH Fleet. From  January through April 1969 COMPHIBRON THREE Staff was primarily engaged in conducting inspections on squadron ships.  On 30 January 1969 USS COOK (LPR 130), USS TULARE (LKA 112) and USS PAUL REVERE (LPA 222) deployed to the Western Pacific with PHIBRON ELEVEN.  USS PAUL REVERE (LPA 22) was detached from the squadron at the same time and reassigned to PHIBRON FIVE. From 13-19 March COMPHIBRON THREE acted as CATF for the PHIBLEX 1-69 portion of the FIRST Fleet Exercise BELL JANGLE, held at Camp Pendleton, California.  COMPHIBRON THREE shifted to USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2) on 14 April 1969 for the duration of the coming Western Pacific deployment.  USS PICKAWAY (LPA 222) and USS SKAGIT (LKA 105) were detached from the squadron and administratively transferred to PHIBRON ONE on 30 April 1969. Commander Amphibious Squadron THREE deployed to the Western Pacific from San Diego on 1 May 1969 and will act as Commander Amphibious Ready Group ALFA off the South Vietnamese Coast.  Squadron ships USS IWO JIMA (LPH 2), USS CLEVELAND (LPD 7), USS COMSTOCK (LSD 19), and USS COLONIAL deployed together in the same convoy group, while USS WHETSTONE (LSD 27) left on 25 April 1969. The history of Amphibious Squadron THREE has been a proud one.  It has participated in most major operations in the Western Pacific since inception in 1954, and today that history shines brighter with participation in the United States defense of the Republic of Vietnam.  Ships of the Squadron are making a vital effort there in the conduct of amphibious operations up and down the coast.  The Squadron’s contribution to the Fleet, to our national goals and to the Free World is invaluable. The Squadron is not always engaged in work.  Many times during a cruise her men have the opportunity to visit foreign ports and to meet new people.  Visits are frequently made to Japan, Korea, Philippines, Hong Kong, and may include Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan.  Amphibious Squadron THREE, in combat operations or in peaceful waters, stands as a modern and powerful force…a barrier to aggression and an incentive to peace.  http://www.cpr3.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/History.aspx Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) [PELESG] USS Peleliu (LHA-5) ex-Da Nang / ex-Khe Sanh Pax Per Potens: "Peace Through Power" http://www.peleliu.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Peleliu (LHA 5) - Peleliu Expeditionary http://www.navy.mil/local/lha5 USS Peleliu (LHA 5) - Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=213 USS Peleliu (LHA 5) History http://www.navysite.de/ships/lha5.htm USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/07/0705.htm Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group [PELARG] http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lha-5.htm   Naval Station San Diego, CA. USS Peleliu (LHA-5) - Naval Station San Diego, CA. – ow-commandpost http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=12899#12899 USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Deployment History http://www.uscarriers.net/lha5history.htm Peleliu is the flagship for the Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group, operating out of San Diego, with Amphibious Squadron Three embarked subordinate to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3 or COMEXSTRKGRU THREE and reports operationally when deployed to the 7th Fleet AOR, to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward–deployed amphibious task force. USS Peleliu (LHA 5) is the tasked flag ship of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 which includes amphibious ships USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and USS Dubuque (LPD 8), the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71), and the guidedmissile destroyers USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Benfold (DDG 65). USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) http://www.usspearlharbor.navy.mil/default.aspx                                     Focus on USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) http://www.navy.mil/local/lsd52                                                               USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=166 USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) History http://navysite.de/ships/lsd52.htm USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/12/1252.htm Homeport San Diego "The Day that Will Live in Infamy"--December 7, 1941 USS PEARL HARBOR is the last of the United States Navy's four new cargo variants of the WHIDBEY ISLAND class of Landing Dock Ships and the first ship to carry the name Pearl Harbor to commemorate the heroic actions of the members of the armed services as well as the citizens of the Island of Oahu during the attack on December 7, 1941. http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/12/1252.htm USS Dubuque (LPD 8) http://www.dubuque.navy.mil USS Dubuque (LPD 8) News http://www.dubuque.navy.mil/ship/currentnews.html USS Dubuque (LPD 8) History http://navysite.de/ships/lpd8.htm USS Dubuque (LPD 8) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/09/0908.htm USS DUBUQUE is the fifth AUSTIN class Amphibious Transport Dock and the second ship in that class built by Ingalls in Pascagoula. USS Halsey (DDG 97) http://www.halsey.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Halsey (DDG 97) History               http://www.navysite.de/dd/ddg97.htm USS Halsey (DDG 97) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01097.htm William Frederick Halsey, Jr. http://www.halsey.navy.mil/site%20pages/heritage_fahalsey.aspx William Frederick Halsey, Jr., was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on October 30, 1882, the son of the late Captain William F. Halsey, U. S. Navy. As a Navy junior, he made the usual round of schools prior to his appointment to the Naval Academy. President McKinley gave him an appointment in 1900. While at the Naval Academy he distinguished himself in class committees and athletics, but not in scholarship. He was a member of the "Lucky Bag" yearbook staff, won his letter in football as a fullback and was president of the Athletic Association. As a First Classman, he had his name engraved on the Thompson Trophy Cup as the Midshipman who had done the most during the year for the promotion of athletics. Upon graduation in February 1904, he was assigned to USS Missouri and later transferred to USS Don Juan de Austria in which he was commissioned an Ensign after having completed the two years at sea -- then required by law. In 1907, he joined USS Kansas and made the famous World Cruise of the Fleet in that battle ship. For the next almost 25 years practically all his sea duty with the Fleet was in destroyers, starting in 1909 with command of USS DuPont (TB-7 commissioned in 1897), USS Lamson, USS Flusser and USS Jarvis. In 1915 he went ashore for two years of duty in the Executive Department at the Naval Academy. During WWI he served in the Queenstown Destroyer Force in command of USS Benham and USS Shaw. From 1918 to 1921 he continued his destroyer service in command of USS Yarnell, USS Chauncey, USS John Francis Burnes and Destroyer Division Thirty-two. In October of 1920 he assumed command of USS Wickes and of Destroyer Division Fifteen. At that time a destroyer division commander also commanded the division flagship. Another shore cruise sent him to duty in the Office of Naval Intelligence, in Washington, -- which was his only duty assignment in that city. In October 1922, he was ordered as Naval Attache at the American Embassy in Berlin, Germany. One year later, he was given additional duty as Naval Attache at the American Embassies in Christiana, Norway; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Stockholm, Sweden. On completion of that cruise he returned to sea duty, again in the destroyers in European waters, in command of USS Dale and USS Osborne. Upon his return to the U.S. in 1927, he served one year as Executive Officer of the battleship USS Wyoming -- and then for three years in command of USS Reina Mercedes, station ship at the Naval Academy. He continued his destroyer duty on his next two-years at cruise starting in 1930 as Commander Destroyer Division Three of the Scouting Force. In 1932 he went as a student to the Naval War College. Then in 1934, he embarked on his aviation career when he reported to the Naval Air Station, Pensacola for flight training. He was designated a Naval Aviator on 15 May 1935, and went in command of the carrier USS Saratoga for two years, followed by one year in command of the Naval Air Station, Pensacola. In 1938, when he reached flag rank, he held successive commands of Carrier Division Two in USS Yorktown and Carrier Division One in Saratoga. In 1940, he became Commander Aircraft Battle Force with the rank of Vice Admiral. He was in USS Enterprise in that command when World War II broke out. In April 1942 he was designated Commander Task Force Sixteen, in Enterprise to escort the carrier USS Hornet to within 800 miles of Tokyo to launch the Army planes for the initial bombing of Japan. In October l942 he was made Commander South Pacific Forces and South Pacific Area. With the rank of Admiral, and for the next 18 months he was in command of that area during the offensive operations of the U. S. Forces. In June 1944 he assumed command of the Third Fleet, and was designated Commander Western Pacific Task Forces. As such, he operated successfully against the Japanese in the Palaies, Philippines, Formosa, Okinawa and South China Sea. Subsequent to the Okinawa campaign in July 1945, his forces struck at Tokyo and the Japanese mainland. The last attack of his forces was on 13 August 1945. Admiral Halsey's flag was flying on USS Missouri on 2 September in Tokyo Bay when the formal Japanese surrender was signed onboard. Immediately thereafter, 54 ships of the Third Fleet, with his four-star flag in USS South Dakota, returned to the United States for annual Navy Day Celebrations in San Francisco on 27 October 1945. He hauled down his flag in November of that year and was assigned special duty in the office of the Secretary of the Navy. On December 11, 1945, he took the oath as Fleet Admiral becoming the fourth and last officer to hold the rank. Later, Fleet Admiral Halsey made a goodwill flying trip through Central and South America covering nearly 28,000 miles, and 11 nations. He was relieved of active duty in December 1946, and upon his own request transferred to the retired list on 1 March 1947. Upon retirement, he joined the board of two subsidiaries of the International Telephone and Telegraph Company and served until 1957. He was active in an unsuccessful effort to preserve the USS Enterprise as a national shrine, and was an elected Honorary Vice President of the Naval Historical Foundation. He died on 16 August 1959 at Fishers Island Country Club. PROMOTIONS Graduated from Naval Academy - Class of 1904 Ensign - February 2, 1906 Lieutenant (junior grade) - February 2, 1909 Lieutenant - February 2, 1909 Lieutenant Commander - August 29, 1916 Commander - February 1, 1918 Captain - February 10, 1927 Rear Admiral - March 1, 1938 Vice Admiral - June 13, 1940 Admiral - November 18, 1942 Fleet Admiral - December 11, 1945 DECORATIONS AND AWARDS Navy Cross Distinguished Service Medal with three gold stars Army Distinguished Service Medal Presidential Unit Citation Mexican Service Medal Victory Medal, Destroyer Clasp American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal World War II Victory Medal National Defense Service Medal Philippine Liberation Medal http://www.halsey.navy.mil/site%20pages/heritage_fahalsey.aspx USS HALSEY (DLG 23) was launched a guided missile frigate on 15 January 1962 at San Francisco Naval Shipyard. The ship’s sponsors were Mrs. Margaret Denham and Miss Jane Halsey, granddaughters of the late Fleet Admiral. On 20 July 1963, USS HALSEY (DLG 23) was commissioned into service. Captain H. H. Anderson, USN, assumed command. The ceremonies included a eulogy by Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, USN, on Fleet Admiral Halsey's illustrious career. HALSEY departed San Francisco on 25 November 1963 for Dabob Bay and Carr Island to conduct ASW system alignment tests and acoustical noise surveys until 7 December. She arrived at her home port of San Diego on 11 December 1963. HALSEY was assigned to Destroyer Squadron 7, Destroyer Division 71 on 13 December 1963, and participated in a special sea power demonstration for the Secretary of the Navy, acting as screen commander from 15-18 December 1963. She conducted her weapons qualification trials from 15 January to 14 February 1964, and fired her first missiles on the Pacific Missile Range on 10 February 1964. After a shakedown cruise from 16 March to 1 May, she returned to the San Francisco Naval Shipyard on 15 May 1964; and concluded her post-shakedown on 17 July 1964. During her first years of active service, HALSEY experimented with a unique system of internal organization, combining all the aspects of the weapons systems and CIC under a combat officer; and separate hull and communications administration departments. In 1966, HALSEY was assigned to Destroyer Squadron 7, Destroyer Division 71, in the Pacific Fleet. On 2 July, she left San Diego for Subic Bay, Philippines. By August, she was conducting air-sea rescue and ASW operations in the South China Sea. During this period, HALSEY rescued some 16 airmen in two cruises in the Gulf of Tonkin. On 5 December, the frigate departed Yokosuka, Japan, for the West Coast, arriving San Diego 21 December 1966. http://www.halsey.navy.mil/site%20pages/heritage_dlgcg23.aspx Newest Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Halsey Enters the Fleet Story Number: NNS050802-01 Release Date: 8/2/2005 7:08:00 AM By Journalist Seaman Joseph Caballero, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy commissioned its newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) July 30 in a ceremony at Pier J, Naval Air Station North Island, Coronado, Calif. Arizona Sen. John McCain, former naval officer, was the key speaker for the event. In his speech, he paid special tribute to his grandfather Adm. John McCain and Fleet Adm. William F. “Bull” Halsey. “My family owes a great debt of gratitude to Adm. Halsey, who personally ordered my grandfather be present on the deck of the USS Missouri when the Japanese formally surrendered,” said Sen. McCain. “For almost 230 years, the Navy has given us many heroes. No name is more deserving of this honor than Adm. Halsey’s. I am confident the crew of this destroyer is worthy of its namesake.” According to Operations Specialist 3rd Class Justin Franck, the ship’s surface warfare supervisor, having the name Halsey means they’re expected to be faster and more prepared than any other ship. “We’re going through more training a whole lot faster,” said Franck. “We’re also going on deployment next summer, and no one’s ever done it that fast before.” Halsey’s distinguished career started when he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1904. During World War I, Halsey was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions while in command of convoy escort vessels. In 1935 and at the age of 52, he earned his Naval Aviator Wings. In World War II, Halsey, then a vice admiral, led the first counter-strikes against the Japanese. He later assumed command of the U.S. 3rd Fleet in 1944 and led his task forces to victories over the Japanese during conflicts in the South Pacific. William Halsey, nicknamed “Bull” by the press, became the last officer to earn the rank of Fleet Admiral and is also known for his battle cry: “Hit hard! Hit Fast! Hit often!” “Visionary! Inspirational! Determined! The very name Halsey embodies these attributes,” said Vice Adm. Terrance T. Etnyre, commander, Naval Surface Forces. “This legendary naval officer personifies all of the qualities of a great leader. It is a fitting name for a United States warship.” The ship was “brought to life” by Halsey’s granddaughters Anne Halsey Smith and Heidi Cooke-Halsey and Halsey’s great granddaughter Margaret Halsey Talbot. Margaret Halsey Talbot stood in the place of co-sponsor Alice Spruance Talbot, who was unable to attend. Other speakers at the event included the Honorable Dionel M. Aviles, Under Secretary of the Navy; Vice Adm. Barry M. Costello, commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet; Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby, deputy, Surface Ships; Rear Adm. Charles S. Hamilton, program executive officer for ships; and Philip A. Teel, president, Northrop Grumman Ship Systems. “Adm. Halsey set the standard for the Navy of the 20th century, so it is only appropriate that USS Halsey set the standard for the Navy of the 21st century,” said Lt. j.g. Darvin Robinson, Halsey’s systems test officer. “Halsey is the link to what the Navy is going to, so we have to be the benchmark for the fleet.” The Northrop Grumman-built USS Halsey is the second destroyer to be named after Fleet Adm. William F. Halsey Jr. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=19453 HALSEY (DDG 97) is the 47th ship in the ARLEIGH BURKE (DDG 51) Class of Aegis guided missile destroyers – the U.S. Navy’s most powerful destroyer fleet. These highly-capable, multi-mission ships can conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection, in support of National Military Strategy. The mission of HALSEY is to conduct sustained combat operations at sea, providing primary protection for the Navy’s aircraft carriers and battle groups, as well as essential escort to Navy and Marine Corps amphibious forces and auxiliary ships, and independent operations as necessary. DDG 97 will be capable of fighting of air, surface, and subsurface battles simultaneously. The ship contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime defense needs well into the 21st century. The 509.5-foot, 9,300-ton HALSEY has an overall beam of 66.5 feet, and a navigational draft of 31.9 feet. Four gas turbine propulsion plants will power the ship to speeds above 30 knots. A crew of approximately 300 officers and crewmembers operate the ship. DDG 97’s Aegis Combat System, the world’s foremost naval weapons systems, includes the AN/SPY-1D phased array radar, the most powerful air search radar in the Navy’s inventory, which scans in all directions simultaneously to detect, track and engage hundreds of aircraft and missiles while continuously watching the sky for new targets from the sea to the stratosphere. State-of-the-art C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence) systems provide Aegis destroyers and their crews with total situational awareness. The ship is equipped with the MK-41 Vertical Launching System (VLS), which fires a combination of up to 96 Standard surface-to-air, Tomahawk surface-to-surface missiles and VLA antisubmarine missiles; and AN/SQQ-89 Undersea Warfare System, with a bow-mounted AN/SQS-53C sonar system. DDG 97 is a Flight IIA Aegis destroyer. This major upgrade program includes the addition of two helicopter hangars that each accommodate a Seahawk (SH-60B/R) helicopter. DDG 97 also has the LAMPS MK III Undersea Warfare Control System, with helicopter landing and replenishment facilities for the SH-60B. The new design also features a zonal electrical system, an advanced water purification system, and other shipboard improvements. The potent offensive and defensive capabilities of Aegis destroyers are achieved with maximum survivability. Extensive topside armor is placed around vital combat systems and machinery spaces, and a large-waterplane-area hull form significantly improves seaseeking ability. Acoustic, infrared and radar signatures have been reduced, and vital shipboard systems are hardened against electromagnetic pulse and over-pressure damage. A comprehensive Collective Protection System guards against nuclear, chemical and biological agents. State-of-the-art propulsion and damage control systems are managed by an all new fiber-optic data multiplexing system. Truly multi-mission combatants, Aegis destroyers are the most balanced surface warships ever built, with the weapons, electronics, helicopter support facilities, and propulsion, auxiliary and survivability systems to carry out the Navy’s missions today, and into the next century. http://www.halsey.navy.mil/site%20pages/aboutus_mission.aspx USS Benfold (DDG 65) http://www.benfold.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Benfold (DDG 65) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg65.htm USS Benfold (DDG 65) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01065.htm USS BENFOLD DDG-65 is the 15th Arleigh Burke-class Guided Missile Destroyer in the United States Navy. She was named in honor of Hospitalman 3rd class Edward Clyde Benfold and joined the Pacific Fleet on 30 March 1996 when she was commisioned for duty. Born in Staten Island, New York on January 15, 1931, Petty Officer Benfold graduated from Audubon High School in Audubon, New Jersey. Petty Officer Benfold entered the service at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1950. After completion of recruit training in Great Lakes, Illinois, he was selected for "A" school training as a Hospitalman. He was killed in action while serving with the First Marine Division in Korea. "For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Hospital Corpsman, attached to a Company in the First Marine Division during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 September 1952..." he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. The citation continues: "When his company was subjected to heavy artillery and mortar barrages, followed by a determined assault during the hours of darkness by an enemy force estimated at battalion strength, Benfold resolutely moved from position to position in the face of intense hostile fire, treating the wounded and lending words of encouragement. Leaving the protection of his sheltered position to treat the wounded when the platoon area in which he was working was attacked from both the front and the rear, he moved forward to an exposed ridge line where he observed two Marines in a large crater. As he approached the two men to determine their condition, an enemy soldier threw two grenades into the crater while two other enemies charged the position. Picking up a grenade in each hand, Benfold leaped out of the crater and hurled himself against the onrushing hostile soldiers, pushing the grenades against their chests and killing both the attackers. Mortally wounded while carrying out this heroic act, Benfold, by his great personal valor and resolute spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death, was directly responsible for saving the lives of his two comrades. His exceptional courage reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for others." The Aegis shield denotes DDG-65's capabilities. The lion and shield with cross embodies HM3 Benfold's courage and medical service. The red above blue background denotes his service in Korea. The reversed star denotes the Medal of Honor, the crossed Navy and Marine swords signify cooperation and strength, the Mameluke signifies Benfold's service with the First Marine Division. The halberds signify vigilance, resolve, and battle preparedness. http://www.benfold.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Benfold Sets Aviation Milestone Story Number: NNS050124-08 Release Date: 1/24/2005 5:02:00 PM By Journalist 1st Class (SCW/SS) James Pinsky, Navy News Service INDIAN OCEAN (NNS) -- USS Benfold (DDG 65) set an aviation milestone Jan. 24 with its 100th helicopter landing since arriving on station off the coast of Indonesia New Year’s Day. The crew of the MH-60S Seahawk, assigned to USNS San Jose (TAFS-7), was welcomed after the successful landing with ship’s coins and hats, commemorating the occasion - a feat made even more remarkable considering that Benfold, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, doesn’t have its own helicopter or helicopter hanger. Navy helicopters, operating in support of Operation Unified Assistance, have operated at a very high tempo, averaging between three and five humanitarian aid drops a day. “We’ve been averaging 60 hours of flight time a day, which is an exorbitant amount of time compared to what we usually fly,” said Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class Joseph Sabia of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Warfare Squadron (Light) (HSL) 47 embarked aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). “We’ve been averaging about 40 hours a month, normally.” The fast pace has meant Benfold has averaged transferring approximately 155 gallons a day, accounting for more than 14,500 gallons of fuel since Jan. 1. Although several ships in the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group can support helicopter refuelings, several factors contribute to Benfold being such a popular landing platform. “We’d like to say it’s because of our box lunches that the pilots like to come here,” said Operations Specialist 1st Class Eric Gonzales, “but several operational factors make Benfold the logical choice.” What Gonzales is referring to is that Benfold typically operates closest to land because of an embarked hydrographic survey team remapping the Indonesian waters affected by the Dec. 26 tsunami. Additionally, since Benfold doesn’t have its own helicopter or hangars, pilots don’t have to compete with a resident helicopter for a landing zone. In fact, the only time a helicopter has to wait is when another chopper beats them to Benfold. “Pilots love to come to USS Benfold,” said Lt. Cmdr. David Dunn, Benfold‘s executive officer, “because we always have a green deck, our crew is very professional, and we have the best box lunches around.” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=16763 Focus on Tsunami Relief Operations http://www.navy.mil/local/tsunami _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license Last edited by Batman47 on Sat Jul 05, 2008 7:07 pm; edited 1 time in total
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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 363 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 392 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Fri Jul 04, 2008 11:58 pm    Post subject: Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) - PHIBRON 3 · Quote USS Cape St George (CG 71)   “Dragon Slayers” http://www.cape-st-george.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Cape St. George (CG 71)    http://www.navsource.org/archives/04/1171/040171.htm USS Cape St George (CG 71) Photos http://www.navy.mil/local/cg71 USS Cape St George (CG 71) History http://navysite.de/cg/cg71.html USS CAPE ST. GEORGE, the first ship in the United States Navy to bear the name, is the twenty-fifth ship in the TICONDEROGA - class of AEGIS guided missile cruisers, and the seventeenth built by Ingalls Shipbuilding of Pascagoula, Mississippi. In July 2007, the CAPE ST. GEORGE shifted her homeport from Norfolk, Va., to San Diego, Calif., as part of the adjustment of forces from the Atlantic to the Pacific. 15th Maine Expeditionary Unit Marine Air Ground Task Force http://192.156.19.109/15thmeu/index.htm _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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