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Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) – PHIBRON 1 - ow-commandpostb http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=12937#12937

Commander, Amphibious Squadron One
Amphibious Task Force – (CTF) 76
COMPHIBRON ONE
(COMPHIBRON) 1
COMPHIBRON 1
PHIBRON ONE
Amphibious Squadron ONE (CPR 1)
Amphibious Squadron 1 (CPR 1)
http://www.cpr1.navy.mil/default.aspx
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron1.htm

Amphibious Squadron One is subordinate to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3 or COMEXSTRKGRU THREE.
http://www.esg3.navy.mil

Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Story Archive
http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=223

Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) [TARESG]
USS Tarawa (LHA-1)
"Eagle of the Sea"
http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/default.aspx

Focus on USS Tarawa (LHA 1)
http://www.navy.mil/local/lha1

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) Story Archive
http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=182

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) History
http://navysite.de/ships/lha1.htm

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) Photos
http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/07/0701.htm

Tarawa Amphibious Ready Group [TARARG]
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/lha-1.htm
Naval Station San Diego, CA.

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) Deployment History
http://www.uscarriers.net/lha1.htm

History of USS Tarawa
http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/LHA1.aspx

The Battle of Tarawa
http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Battle.aspx

The Central Pacific's Gilbert Islands were strategically important to the Allies in World War II. Tarawa, and atoll in those islands, was the scene of a major amphibious assault and on of the proudest testaments to valor in U.S. Marine Corps history.

Japan's Rear Admiral Shibasaki Meichi was quoted as saying before the assault that it would take the American forces "a million men and a hundred years" to capture the atoll. The Japanese had backed up this boast with an elite force of almost 5,000 men and heavily fortified the island of Betio in the southwestern corner of the atoll. Since capturing the islands three days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Japanese had spent two years positioning coastal defense guns, antiaircraft guns, anti-boat guns, light and heavy machine guns, and an airstrip they could use to strike at allied troops stationed in the area. The atoll was strategically vital to both sides, and the stage was set for one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific.

The Allies were faced with serious problems in capturing Tarawa. The big coastal guns would keep the Navy guns either under constant fire or at bay, and the Japanese had used sunken ships and other pieces of metal to create obstacles which blocked the avenues of approach from the sea. The approaching craft would have to slow down to maneuver, putting them in prearranged ambush sites where they would be subject to deadly, concentrated fire from fortified positions.

The next line of obstacles included a double apron of barbed wire, log barriers, and concrete obstacles which surrounded the island. After breaching these defenses, the Marines would still be faced with the beach itself, where the Japanese had fortified heavy machine guns which created a series of interlocking fields of fire in addition to antipersonnel mines and anti-vehicle mines in the fringing reefs where the boats would have to land. With the added benefit of antiaircraft guns and planes of their own, the defenders were well prepared for any assault.

The Allies had to take Tarawa, however, and on November 19, 1943 the assault began. Faced with the near-impossible odds and hounded from all sides, the Marines made it to the beach; by the last day of battle the Japanese had been forced into the east end of the the three-mile long island. They had prepared a series of fortified positions to fall back on in their retreat, and had defended each one almost to the last man. Those three miles may be some of the longest in Marine Corps history, as they slowly advanced at a terrible price. Organized resistance on Tarawa ceased by 1:30 PM on the third day.

The Battle of Tarawa took 76 hours and cost the lives of 1,020 Marines. The list of Americans wounded was listed as high as 2,296. The cost was much higher for the Japanese defenders- of the 4,386 elite troops on Betio, only 146 were left alive.

Four Marines received the Medal of Honor for their heroism, three of them posthumously. The fourth, Colonel David M. Shoup, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Marines and Betio Island Assault forces, later became the Commandant of the Marine Corps. http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Battle.aspx

The first USS Tarawa (CV-40) was one of the Navy's potent new 27,000 ton aircraft carriers and sister of the Essex, Shangri-La, and Princeton. The first Navy ship so named, Tarawa was built at the Norfolk Navy Yard in Portsmouth, Virginia, and launched in the Elizabeth River on May 12, 1945. In a speech delivered at the launching of the Tarawa, Marine Corps General Holland Smith, who commanded the Marines during the furious 76 hour fighting on the atoll, said ,"It is eminently fitting that this great ship should be named for an operation which marked a turning point of the war in the Pacific and began a new era of amphibious warfare."

The Marines who went ashore on November 20, 1943, carried a battle flag which was later presented to the new carrier. The flag, under which 1,020 Marines and Sailors died, was hauled down in a special ceremony on February 13, 1944, by a handpicked color guard of men who had taken part in the assault.

Tarawa boasted improvements in design and equipment that set her apart from the other ships in her class. The vessel was 856 feet in overall length, had 100 feet in beam and a draft of 24 feet. Fully loaded, she displaced more than 34,000 tons and was able to achieve a top speed of more than 30 knots. With a crew compliment of approximately 2,500 men, Tarawa carried 80 planes and was equipped to launch and land the first Naval-developed jet-propelled aircraft.

Heavily armed, Tarawa sported twin and single mount five-inch guns, quadruple 40mm and twin 20mm antiaircraft weapons. Profiting from the lessons learned in the Pacific carrier war, the ship also had improved facilities to stow bombs and rockets.
http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/First.aspx

The primary war -fighting mission of the LHA-1 Tarawa class is to land and sustain United States Marines on any shore during hostilities. The ships serve as the centerpiece of a multi-ship Amphibious Readiness Group (ARG). Some 3,000 Sailors and Marines contribute to a forward-deployed ARG composed of approximately 5,000 personnel.

The ships are designed to maintain what the Marine Corps calls "tactical integrity" - getting a balanced force to the same place at the same time. One LHA can carry a complete Marine battalion, along with the supplies and equipment needed in an assault, and land them ashore by either helicopter or amphibious craft. This two pronged capability, with emphasis on airborne landing of troops and equipment, enables the Navy and Marine Corps to fulfill their present-day mission. Whether the landing force is involved in an armed conflict, acting as a deterrent force in an unfavorable political situation or serving in a humanitarian mission, the class offers tactical versatility.

The Tarawa class is designed to operate independently or as a unit of a force, as a flagship or individual ship unit in both air and/or surface assaults, these ships are key elements of the amphibious assault forces for the Navy. They incorporate the best design features and capabilities of several amphibious assault ships currently in service: the Amphibious Assault Ship (LPH), Amphibious Transport Dock (LPD), Amphibious Cargo Ship (LKA), and Dock Landing Ship (LSD).

A capital ship, the Tarawa class can simultaneously fulfill six war-fighting requirements: flagship for embarked amphibious squadron, flag or general officer staff; aircraft carrier, with a 35-aircraft complement including AV-8B fighter/attack V/STOL Harrier jets, AH-1 helicopter gunships, CH-53E Super Sea Stallion "heavy lift" and CH-46D/E Sea Knight helicopters; amphibious assault launching platform, employing a variety of surface assault craft including the Navy's newest 40+ knot LCAC, 135-foot Landing Craft Utility (LCU), and other amphibious assault vehicles; hospital ship, equivalent to the nation's finest local hospitals with 17 ICU beds, 4 operating rooms, 300 beds, a 1,00-unit blood bank, full dental facilities, and orthopedics, trauma, general surgery, and x-ray capabilities; command and control (C4I) ship, with the Navy's most sophisticated SHF and EHF satellite communications capability; and assault provisions carrier able to sustain embarked forces with fuel, ammunition and other supplies.

The LHA's full length flight deck can handle ten helicopters simultaneously, as well as the AV-8 HARRIER jump-jet aircraft and OV-10 BRONCO fixed-wing turboprop reconnaissance aircraft. There is also a large well deck in the stem of the ship for a number of amphibious assault craft, both displacement hull and air cushion. Although the LHA usually doesn't carry Landing Craft, Air Cushioned (LCAC) boats onboard, they frequently operate with them and control them.

The ships have an extensive command, communication and control suite. These electronic systems give the amphibious task force commander nearly unlimited versatility in directing the assault mission. The heart of the LHA's electronic system is a tactical amphibious warfare computer which not only keeps track of the landing force's positions after leaving the ship, but tracks enemy targets ashore.

With current information on troop positions in relation to enemy targets, the tactical data system can also direct the targeting of the guns and missiles from the ship as well as the support ships. Additionally, the system maintains air and surface traffic control during the landing not only for her own helicopters and assault craft, but for the combat air control and task force support ships as well.

Nearly three football fields in length and 20 stories high, these ships are capable of embarking 3,000 Sailors and Marines when deployed. The ship's two-acre flight deck, 18,519 square-foot hangar deck, and 250-foot well deck enable an embarked landing force to accomplish its mission around the globe. Two-marine boilers provide steam to the turbines which drive the twin screw ship, providing 70,000 total shaft horsepower. The ships have a range of 10,000 miles at a speed of 20 knots.

The ships have an extensive mechanical system for vertical and horizontal movement of containerized and palletized supplies from deep cargo holds to assault craft or helicopters. A system of five centerline elevators, conveyor lines and a monorail system move cargo and supplies. Two large elevators, one aft and one portside, move aircraft and equipment from the hangar deck to the flight deck. Wheeled vehicles, trucks, jeeps and tanks can be driven or pulled from any deck level storage position via inclined ramps to either awaiting craft in the well deck or helicopters on the flight deck. http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Mission.aspx

The second USS Tarawa (LHA 1) was built by the Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of the Litton Industries at Pascagoula, Mississippi, and commissioned May 29, 1976. Tarawa was the first in a new generation of multipurpose amphibious assault ships, a vital member of the Navy/Marine Corps team in the Pacific Fleet and a major factor in U.S. power projection overseas.

Tarawa's first deployment to the Western Pacific began in March 1979. In addition to an embarked helicopter squadron, the ship operated with temporarily assigned AV-8A "Harrier" jets in a successful experiment to determine feasibility of operating vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft from an amphibious assault ship. During this deployment, Tarawa rescued 400 Vietnamese refugees who were adrift in the South China Sea. Upon returning, Tarawa won her first Admiral James H. Flatley Memorial Award for Naval Aviation Safety.

The "Eagle of the Sea" began her second deployment in October, 1980, with a composite squadron of 29 helicopters and six AV-8As. The squadron was the first in Marine Corps aviation history to conduct integrated helicopter/fighter operations aboard an LHA for an extended deployment of more than five months.

Tarawa completed her third deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean in November, 1983. During this deployment, Tarawa was diverted to the troubled waters of the Eastern Mediterranean by order of President Ronald Reagan to support the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping force in Beirut, Lebanon. After returning, Tarawa won her second Admiral Flatley Award.

Steaming out of San Diego in October, 1984, Tarawa began her fourth Western Pacific deployment during which the ship participated in joint military exercises with friends and allies in the region.

In June of 1986, Tarawa deployed for the fifth time to the Western Pacific, followed in May 1987 by a complex, one-year overhaul. During this time, Tarawa won the Admiral Flatley Award for the third time and by July of 1989 had rejoined the Pacific Fleet for her sixth operational deployment. She subsequently participated in joint military exercises with Thailand and Pacific Fleet Exercise (PACEX) '89, before returning to San Diego in December of 1989.

The following December brought the deployment to the Arabian Gulf as the flagship of a thirteen-ship amphibious task force in support of Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation forces. It was the largest such deployment since the Vietnam conflict. Embarked were the Commander, Amphibious Group Three and the Fifth Marine Expeditionary Brigade. Tarawa participated in the amphibious assault exercise Sea Soldier IV in January, 1991, as a rehearsal for the proposed amphibious landing into Kuwait. The proposed operation was, in fact, a coalition force deception designed to keep the attention of the Iraqi military focused on potential assault from the sea instead of the real overland thrust. The deception was successful, playing a major role in keeping U.S. force casualties at an historic low for an engagement of that magnitude. On February 24th, Tarawa landed elements of the Fifth Marine Expeditionary Brigade into Saudi Arabia just south of the Kuwaiti border; these forces later joined with the First Marine Expeditionary Force which entered and liberated Kuwait.

After the conclusion of Operation Desert Storm, Tarawa departed the Arabian Gulf in May of 1991 and was diverted to Bangladesh to render two weeks of humanitarian assistance to typhoon victims in Operation Sea Angel. Water purification equipment, medical aid and 2,000 tons of rice delivered by Tarawa's helicopters and landing craft helped more than 1.5 million inhabitants of Southeast Bangladesh survive the ravages of the storm's aftermath. Tarawa returned home to San Diego in July of 1991.

In May, 1992, Tarawa deployed for the eighth time to the Western Pacific, participating in Eager Mace '92-'93, a joint U.S./Kuwait exercise. The ship also supported the insertion of Pakistani troops into Somalia in support of U.N. humanitarian relief, and returned to San Diego in November of 1992. Tarawa was awarded her fourth Admiral Flatley Award and her first Commander, Seventh Fleet, Amphibious Warfare Excellence Award for the '92 deployment.

This deployment was followed by another complex overhaul at Long Beach Naval Shipyard. Tarawa departed San Diego in April 1996 for her ninth deployment to the Western Pacific/Arabian Gulf. Enroute to the Arabian Gulf, Tarawa participated in a joint U.S./Thailand amphibious training exercise in the Gulf of Thailand. Tarawa then proceeded to the Red Sea to participate in exercise Indigo Serpent with the Royal Saudi Arabian Navy and exercise Infinite Moonlight with the Royal Jordanian Navy, the first such exercise with the nation of Jordan. Upon the conclusion of the Red Sea exercises, Tarawa entered the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch, the enforcement of the "no-fly" zone over southern Iraq. Tarawa also participated in Operation Desert Strike to curb Iraqi aggression. Returning to San Diego in October 1996, Tarawa was awarded both the Federal Energy Conservation Award and the Secretary of the Navy Energy Conservation Award.

In January 1997, Tarawa entered an extensive overhaul. Four weeks after leaving the shipyard, Tarawa was the centerpiece for Kernel Blitz, the largest amphibious exercise in the Pacific Fleet in nearly 25 years and involving over 25 ships and 20,000 Sailors and Marines.

Tarawa departed on her tenth deployment in February, 1998. While participating in joint exercises with Jordanian armed forces, Tarawa was diverted to the Red Sea African nation of Eritrea to evacuate American citizens from the U.S. embassy there. During the Eritrean-Ethiopian hostilities, more than 200 Americans were safely rescued.

More than 4,000 Sailors and Marines departed San Diego 07 February 1998 for a six-month deployment aboard USS Tarawa (LHA 1), USS Mount Vernon (LSD 39) and USS Denver (LPD 9). They departed San Diego five days ahead of schedule as part of a buildup of U.S. forces in the Arabian Gulf. The Tarawa Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), consisting of more than 2,100 Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), operated in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf. Tarawa conducted special operations certification exercises before leaving on their 10th deployment to the Western Pacific. The Tarawa ARG participated in a Special Operations Capable exercise of the coast of Southern California in December 1997. The exercise tested the force’s ability to respond to situations it might encounter during the upcoming deployment. As the possibility of renewed conflict with Iraq loomed on the horizon, the Tarawa ARG made a dash straight to the Arabian Gulf within 31 days, at a speed averaging 17 knots. Just as the ARG neared the Gulf, the threat passed. However, according to Commander, Amphibious Group 3, the 12,500-mile, high-speed transit set a record and won the respect of senior Navy officials. The USS Tarawa (LHA-1) Amphibious Ready Group and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) arrived in the Arabian Gulf 11 March 1998. USS Tarawa, USS Denver (LPD-9) and USS Mount Vernon (LSD-39) relieved the USS Guam (LPH-9) ARG to continue the commitment to security and stability in the region. In the early summer of 1998, the Tarawa ARG – which at that time included the 11th MEU (SOC) –conducted an evacuation operation that rescued 250 people from Eritrea’s capital, Asmara. The three-ship Tarawa Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) returned home 07 Aug 1998 after having spent six months deployed to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf and was awarded her second Secretary of the Navy Energy Conservation Award. The Tarawa ARG steamed for more than 36,000 miles across two oceans during its deployment, visiting nine countries in southwest Asia, Africa and the Far East.

The Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) consisted of USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6), USS DENVER (LPD-9), USS PEARL HARBOR (LSD-52) and the Fifteenth Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU (SOC)). Embarked onboard were Commander, Amphibious Squadron THREE and Staff, Helicopter Support Squadron ELEVEN and Assault Craft Unit FIVE. During the millennium Westpac, the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) was involved in many vital operations and exercises. The first mission was to support peacekeeping and humanitarian operations of the international forces in East Timor. While in the Arabian Gulf, the ARG joined other forces of the Fifth Fleet supporting Operation Southern Watch. The ARG and the 15th MEU (SOC) also participated in multinational exercises Eager Mace in Kuwait, Eastern Maverick in Qatar, and Sea Soldier in Oman. DENVER had the honor of being one of the few amphibious ships to support maritime interdiction operations in the Arabian Gulf -- a mission previously only conducted by destroyers and cruisers. DENVER’s visit, board, search, and seizure teams boarded five ships in support of United Nations sanctions against Iraq.

Tarawa returned to San Diego in August, 1998 and was awarded her second Secretary of the Navy Energy Conservation Award. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron3.htm

Tarawa completed an extensive drydock overhaul period at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington in June 1999. Tarawa returned to San Diego in August, 1998 and was awarded her second Secretary of the Navy Energy Conservation Award. Tarawa completed an extensive drydock overhaul period at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington in June 1999.

In August 2000, following an extensive dry dock overhaul period in Bremerton, Wash., Tarawa deployed for the eleventh time to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf. This deployment included wreath-laying ceremonies at the World War II battle sites of Tarawa Atoll, Guadalcanal, and Iwo Jima. While deployed, Tarawa provided humanitarian relief supplies to the war-ravaged country of East Timor, and in October 2000, participated in Operation Determined Response, steaming to the Gulf of Aden in Yemen to provide USS Cole and United States Government agencies on-site logistics, force protection, and evacuation support following the horrific terrorist attack on the Cole.

After returning to San Diego in February 2001, Tarawa entered a planned maintenance period in early September that lasted until April the following year. In June, Tarawa participated in Rim of the Pacific 2002 exercises with a multinational force off the coast of Hawaii. Tarawa departed San Diego for her twelfth Western Pacific deployment on Jan. 6, 2003 and returned July 16. http://www.tarawa.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/Today.aspx

In October 2001 the 13th MEU embarked its combat power aboard the amphibious ships of the USS Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group to solidify the Navy-Marine Corps team and its title as the nation's force in readiness. The MEU and Amphibious Squadron Three's (PHIBRON 3) first at-sea period, Compatibility Training Underway Exercise, was conducted Oct. 2-17, off the Southern California coast. COMPTUEX was the first time Marines and Sailors of the USS Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group planned and executed ship-to-shore missions. The MEU/ARG team exercised its ability to conduct special missions from ships off the coast of Southern California to land-based objectives on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., and San Clemente Island. San Francisco Fleet Week was cancelled after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C., so the 13th MEU stacked its schedule with three more special missions, totaling 15 in a 16-day at-sea period. Cancellation of Fleet Week enabled the MEU/ARG team to tailor a more robust training package. The exercise has been planned for months and is a major stepping stone, as it is the only shipboard training the 13th MEU will conduct hand-in-hand with Amphibious Squadron Three (PHIBRON 3) before it tested for a Special Operations Capable (SOC) designation. Being SOC qualified allows the 13th MEU/USS Bonhomme Richard ARG to set sail for its upcoming six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf regions. Training missions for COMPTUEX displayed the full gamut of core capabilities of an expeditionary force in readiness. During COMPTUEX, the 13th MEU completed a boat raid, two Maritime Special Purpose Force missions, a mechanized raid, an Enhanced Nuclear, Biological and Chemical scenario, a mechanized Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel, a light armored vehicle raid, a Vessel, Board, Search and Seizure, a long range helicopter raid, a humanitarian assistance exercise, a non-combatant evacuation exercise, a helicopter-borne TRAP and a mass casualty drill. On the final day of COMPTUEX, the MEU/ARG team executed the hallmark mission of the MEU - a conventional amphibious assault, like those conducted during World War II. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron3.htm

A trio of San Diego-based warships comprising the Tarawa Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with Amphibious Squadron FIVE and THIRTEENTH MEU embarked deployed from the Naval Station 14 August 2000 beginning a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, where they participated in exercise IRON MAGIC and supported Operation DETERMINED RESPONSE in light of the USS COLE bombing.

The ARG was also scheduled for a tour of duty in the Arabian Gulf. Led by Capt. A.D. Wall, commander, Amphibious Squadron Five, The three-ship ARG has nearly 2,000 Sailors aboard USS Tarawa (LHA 1), USS Anchorage (LSD 36) and USS Duluth (LPD 6). The ships carry approximately 2,200 Marines from the Camp Pendleton-based 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable). Tarawa ARG also has multiple aircraft: Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier attack jets, Marine CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopters, Navy and Marine CH-46 Sea Knight medium lift helicopters, Marine AH-1W Cobra attack helicopters and Marine UH-1N Huey multi-purpose helicopters. LCU 1632 and 1666 began a six-month deployment 14 August 2000 with the USS TARAWA (LHA 1) Amphibious Ready Group, Amphibious Squadron FIVE, and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. LCU 1632 and 1666 returned from a six-month deployment on 13 February 2001. http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/phibron5.htm

Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Returns Home from Global War on Terrorism

Story Number: NNS040304-03
Release Date: 3/4/2004 10:10:00 AM
From Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The seven ships attached to Expeditionary Strike Group One (ESG 1) are returning home this week following a six and a half month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.

USS Greeneville (SSN 772) returned to its Pearl Harbor homeport Feb. 27. USS Port Royal (CG 73), also from Pearl Harbor, is scheduled to arrive home March 10. The remaining ships of ESG 1, USS Peleliu (LHA 5), USS Ogden (LPD 5), USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Jarrett (FFG 33) and USS Germantown (LSD 42) are headed home to San Diego and will arrive March 9.

The strike group is centered around its flagship, Peleliu, and combines the Navy Amphibious Squadron and Marine Expeditionary Unit with the proven strike, anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine capabilities of a cruiser, a destroyer, a frigate and a fast-attack submarine.

“It’s good to be back after achieving what we set out to do--provide persistent combat power to regional and combatant commanders in the war on terrorism,” said Rear Adm. Bob Conway, Commander, ESG 1.

ESG 1’s deployment consisted of operations in Iraq, the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.

The group conducted humanitarian assistance and security and stabilization missions in Iraq, as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom Maritime Interception Operations on land in southern Iraq and at sea in the Persian Gulf. They also patrolled international waters in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa to deter the transport of terrorist personnel and equipment.

The patrols yielded success when, in December, ESG 1 units were involved in two separate interception operations in the Persian Gulf. The first came Dec. 15 when USS Decatur (DDG 73) detained a dhow and its 12 crew members and seized upward of $10 million in hashish. Two weeks later, Peleliu and elements of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), along with USS Port Royal (CG 73) and USS Germantown (LSD 42), worked with Australian patrol aircraft in the detention of another dhow and its 15 crew members, seizing 2,800 pounds of hashish with an estimated street value of $11 million.

“This mission was perfectly suited to our capabilities,” Conway said following the takedown. “We are designed to provide combatant commanders the flexibility to conduct operations across the spectrum of conflict. The immediate nature of this tasking challenged our ability to locate and take down the dhow on short notice. It really demonstrates the kind of speed to execution vital for missions of this kind.”

The drug seizure was not the only time the strike group would engage in coalition operations. ESG 1’s most complex coalition mission came in January, when the group served as command and control for Exercise Sea Saber, a coalition maritime interdiction training exercise.

“We operated very closely with forces from Britain, France, Spain, Japan and Australia, and conducted engagement exercises with United Arab Emirates and Kenya. Each of these countries are committed partners in the global war on terror. We have hosted many of their commanders and commanding officers aboard the flagship, and when they can see first hand the robust capabilities and flexibility the we provide the combatant commander, I believe it leaves no doubt in their minds how the ESG exemplifies U.S. commitment to the war on terror,” Conway said.

The 5,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to ESG 1 will soon return to their homeports for time with family and friends. They do so with the knowledge that they were the first to deploy as an Expeditionary Strike Group.

“Every Sailor and Marine in this strike group is a plankowner in our service’s transformation. That title has come with tremendous sacrifice in time, in energy and in our individual preferences,” Conway said. “Breaking with paradigms is a difficult prospect to consider, let alone execute. But did they do it? You bet they did. They made it happen the way they always make it happen, and I am very proud of all our Sailors and Marines.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=12176

The USS Tarawa headed to sea on April 19 thru April 22, 2004 to complete CART II.

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) had its first look at FORCEnet, the next-generation naval warfighting process, during exercise Trident Warrior 04, Oct. 4-15, 2004. The ships of the Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group participated in Trident Warrior as they headed north to participate in Fleet Week celebrations in San Francisco. The participating units included Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1, the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Tarawa, USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), USS Cleveland (LPD 7), USS Chosin (CG 65) and USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53).

By 16 May 2005 USS Tarawa was participating in Component Training While Underway Exercises (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is the second of 3 major pre-deployment training exercises before a ship is ready for deployment. More than 5,200 Sailors attached to Expeditionary Strike Group One and Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit were participating in the component training exercises, designed to prepare them for their upcoming Western Pacific Deployment.

Tarawa ESG WESTPAC 05 Deployment

The ‘Eagle of the Sea’ USS Tarawa LHA 1, is heading towards the Arabian Gulf in support of the Global War on Terrorism. The ship and it’s complement of over 3,000 Sailors, Marines and civilians will depart its homeport of San Diego, Ca, the morning of July 16, for it’s major Western Pacific deployment. The USS Tarawa LHA 1, will be among an Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG-1), force of approximately 5,500 Sailors and Marines deployed on six ships and one submarine. Tarawa serves as the flagship for ESG-1. The primary mission of the Tarawa ARG is to land and sustain U.S. Marines on any shore during hostilities. Tarawa embarks the Marine Corps’ AV-8B Harrier attack jets, CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopters, CH-46 Sea Knight medium lift helicopters, AH-1W Cobra attack helicopters and UH-1N Huey multi-purpose helicopters. In addition, Tarawa embarks landing craft air cushion (LCAC) surface assault boats and landing craft utility (LCU) boats.

ESG 1 Transits Suez Canal, Ready for "Bright Star"

Story Number: NNS050912-03
Release Date: 9/12/2005 10:08:00 AM

By Lt. Ron Flanders, ESG 1 Public Affairs

ABOARD USS TARAWA, Mediterranean Sea (NNS) -- Four ships and more than 4,000 Sailors and Marines of Expeditionary Strike Group 1 passed through the Suez Canal Sept. 9.

ESG 1 conducted the northbound transit through the vital chokepoint en route to the Mediterranean coast of Egypt to participate in the multinational exercise Bright Star 2005.

The strike group’s flagship, USS Tarawa (LHA 1), the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), the dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and the frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) made the transit with 2,200 combat-ready Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) embarked aboard.

The passage through the Suez was an historic event for the four ships, which are all West Coast-homeported ships. Nearly 22 years to the day that Tarawa became the first West Coast-homeported ship to go through the canal (Sept. 10, 1983), “Big T” punctuated her 13th Western Pacific deployment with her second Suez transit. For ESG 1 Sailors and Marines, it was an exciting experience.

“I thought I would have to be stationed on an East Coast ship to go through the Suez,” said Quartermaster 2nd Class John Sullivan, of Tarawa. “I would say it is close to the top of my list of great experiences during my enlistment,” he added.

For those Sailors and Marines whose jobs had them topside to view the 100-mile passage, there was a lot to see. Much of the canal is just 60 meters wide, so a Sailor could look port to starboard and see part of Egypt.

“I enjoyed the chance to see all of the cities on either side of the canal,” said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan Johnston, whose “snoopy team” watchstanding duties gave him a bird’s eye view from Tarawa’s 08 Level during the trip. “The mosque was the best sight to see,” Johnston added.

Upon exiting the canal, ESG 1 steamed toward its next training exercise, Bright Star 2005. Bright Star is the largest multinational exercise of its kind in the world and is held every two years.

In addition to ESG 1 and the host Egyptian navy and marines, maritime forces from Pakistan, Greece, Germany, and Italy will be participating. In addition to those nations, ground forces from Jordan, Kuwait, the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia will conduct maneuvers.

The exercise runs from Sept. 11-27, and includes integrated training on amphibious landing operations, noncombatant evacuation operations, naval gunnery and maritime security operations.

“We look forward to training with our key allies in Bright Star,” said Rear Adm. Michael LeFever, commander, ESG 1. “We’re excited to be in this vital part of the world and participating in this exercise. We look forward to making new friends and, more importantly, working with the very professional land and sea forces in this coalition.”

Expeditionary Strike Group 1 is an adaptive, lethal and agile force consisting of more than 5,500 Sailors and Marines embarked aboard six ships and a submarine. ESG 1 can conduct operations across the spectrum of warfare or humanitarian operations.

ESG 1 is on a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to conduct maritime security operations. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20033

USS Tarawa (LHA 1), along with 16,000 boots on the ground, several ships at sea and the flags of 12 nations flying over Egypt, operated off the coast of Egypt for exercise Bright Star 2005 Sept. 10-Oct. 3. Tarawa, the Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 flagship, participated by projecting its assets on land, at sea and in the air during the operation Sept. 10-28. Embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship, the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Special Operations Capable (SOC), worked closely with U.S. and other participating nations’ ground forces in and around Mubarak Military City conducting training exercises, as well as an amphibious landing demonstration. Tarawa’s deck department played a major role in executing precision well deck operations for the embarked Utility Landing Craft (LCU), assaulting a soft sandy beach during the opening phase of the exercise Sept. 15.

While the multinational ground forces train and acquaint each other with tactics and equipment to improve international military cooperation for the region, ships from ESG 1 trained with coalition maritime forces to protect the sea lanes and secure the safety of international waters. In addition, ESG 1 is also training to engage international terrorists as it conducted Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) events, which were intended to detect, deter and deny international terrorist organizations use of the maritime environment.

Members of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 are currently leading a group of six coalition ships conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in the North Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman. The strike group’s flagship, USS Tarawa (LHA 1) and the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7) are joined by the guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79). The French ships Var (FS 608) and Lafayette (FS 710), and the Pakistani frigate Badr (PNS 181) round out the coalition task group.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20033

Tarawa Participates in Bright Star 2005

Story Number: NNS051004-04
Release Date: 10/4/2005 4:00:00 PM

By Journalist 3rd Class David Perea, USS Tarawa Public Affairs

MUBARAK MILITARY CITY, Egypt (NNS) -- USS Tarawa (LHA 1), along with 16,000 boots on the ground, several ships at sea and the flags of 12 nations flying over Egypt, operated off the coast of Egypt for exercise Bright Star 2005 Sept. 10-Oct. 3.

The largest coalition exercise conducted by U.S. Central Command, Bright Star 2005 is designed to strengthen regional stability and improve inter-military cooperation, as well as cooperation among participating nations.

"It's important to demonstrate cooperation in this part of the world and the ability to fight when we have to," said Gen. John Abizaid, commander, U.S. Central Command.

Tarawa, the Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 flagship, participated by projecting its assets on land, at sea and in the air during the operation Sept. 10-28.

Embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship, the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Special Operations Capable (SOC), worked closely with U.S. and other participating nations’ ground forces in and around Mubarak Military City conducting training exercises, as well as an amphibious landing demonstration.

Tarawa’s deck department played a major role in executing precision well deck operations for the embarked Utility Landing Craft (LCU), assaulting a soft sandy beach during the opening phase of the exercise Sept. 15.

“If it wasn't for us (Deck Dept.) launching and bringing in the LCUs, the mission wouldn’t get done, so I think every one of us plays an important role,” said Seaman Jennifer Barksdale, who assisted in launching the LCUs.

Warriors from the 13th MEU (SOC), alongside Egyptian, Greek and Jordanian amphibious landing forces, demonstrated their skills while being observed by coalition commanders and honored guests, including the Egyptian Minister of Defense.

“Today was a clear demonstration of the power ESG 1 can bring to the table,” Rear Adm. Michael LeFever, commander, ESG 1 said in reference to the amphibious landing demonstration.

While the multinational ground forces train and acquaint each other with tactics and equipment to improve international military cooperation for the region, ships from ESG 1 trained with coalition maritime forces to protect the sea lanes and secure the safety of international waters. In addition, ESG 1 is also training to engage international terrorists as it conducted Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) events, which were intended to detect, deter and deny international terrorist organizations use of the maritime environment.

Along with the United States, other participating countries included, France Germany, Greece, Italy, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Jordan, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

“For the participant, Bright Star provides a good opportunity to get acquainted with each other’s equipment, tactics and training,” said Egyptian Maj. Gen. Ahmed Mokhtar, chief of Egypt’s armed forces exercise authority.

The six-ship strike group, based on the west coast includes the amphibious assault ship Tarawa, the amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7), the dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), the guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65), the fast-attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) and the frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61). http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20434

ESG-1 rapidly responded in October to provide humanitarian relief to Pakistan after a devastating earthquake killed an estimated 75,000 in the northern part of that country. While LeFever and members of the ESG-1 staff surged to Islamabad, to provide command and control for the U.S. military relief operation, Pearl Harbor and Cleveland ferried several hundred tons of heavy equipment, food, tents and other relief supplies to Karachi to assist the Pakistani government.

Four thousand Sailors and Marines of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 entered the 7th Fleet area of operations Jan. 12 en route to their homeport of San Diego after completing their assigned mission in the 5th Fleet region. The ESG-1 flagship, USS Tarawa (LHA 1), the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and the embarked Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit spent more than four months in-theatre.

During the deployment, each of ESG-1’s six ships performed maritime security operations (MSO) in 5th Fleet. In the North Persian Gulf, the guided missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) helped train the Iraqi navy and provided security for two key pieces of Iraqi infrastructure, the Al Basrah Oil Terminal and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal.

ESG-1 passed the baton to ESG-8, an East coast-based strike group centered aboard USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau will be joined by Gonzalez, which as part of the Sea Swap initiative will remain in theatre after swapping out its crew later this month.

ESG-1 Departs 5th Fleet, Begins Voyage Home

Story Number: NNS060113-05
Release Date: 1/13/2006 2:08:00 PM

By Lt. Ron Flanders Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Public Affairs
ABOARD USS TARAWA, At sea in the Indian Ocean (NNS) -- Four thousand Sailors and Marines of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 entered the 7th Fleet area of operations Jan. 12 en route to their homeport of San Diego after completing their assigned mission in the 5th Fleet region.

The ESG-1 flagship, USS Tarawa (LHA 1), the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and the embarked Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit spent more than four months in-theatre.

“ESG-1 was simply impressive,” said Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, Commander U.S. 5th Fleet. “I could not have asked for better trained or more professional Sailors or Marines than those who comprise the strike group.”

Walsh and his deputy commander, Rear Adm. John Miller, both praised ESG-1 for the ability to rapidly adapt to world events.

“They had a very positive attitude,” said Miller. “We asked them to be flexible, which is inherently difficult for people to do, but everything we’ve asked ESG-1 to do, they’ve done, and they’ve done it in a very professional manner.”

Miller temporarily replaced ESG-1’s commander, Rear Adm. Michael LeFever, Jan. 6. LeFever and a portion of the ESG-1 staff have been in Pakistan since October 2005 coordinating the earthquake relief operations.

Miller praised ESG-1 for its stellar performance during Exercise Bright Star, the largest multinational exercise in the Central Command area of responsibility in September, and for performing distributed operations the following three months over a waterspace equal in area to the continental United States.

ESG-1 rapidly responded in October to provide humanitarian relief to Pakistan after a devastating earthquake killed an estimated 75,000 in the northern part of that country. While LeFever and members of the ESG-1 staff surged to Islamabad, to provide command and control for the U.S. military relief operation, Pearl Harbor and Cleveland ferried several hundred tons of heavy equipment, food, tents and other relief supplies to Karachi to assist the Pakistani government.

During the deployment, each of ESG-1’s six ships performed maritime security operations (MSO) in 5th Fleet. In the North Persian Gulf, the guided missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) helped train the Iraqi navy and provided security for two key pieces of Iraqi infrastructure, the Al Basrah Oil Terminal and Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal.

The guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) and the guided missile frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) performed Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) missions in the Indian Ocean off the Horn of Africa, as well as in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea, while Tarawa, Pearl Harbor and Cleveland each performed MSO missions throughout the region.

“ESG-1 played an integral role in helping to maintain security and stability in the 5th Fleet area of operations,” said Walsh. “Their flexibility allowed us to mix and match forces between three maritime task forces both inside and outside the Arabian Gulf.”

ESG-1 Sailors and Marines were ready to return to their families, but positively reflected on a successful mission.

“I feel very proud with what our Navy/Marine Corps team accomplished here,” said Religious Programs Specialist 2nd Class Jimmel Hargrove of Cleveland. “We were actively involved in helping people, which makes you feel great.”

“We’ve done a good job on completing our mission, and we’re ready to go home,” said Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Daniel Beauchamp of the Tarawa. “We collected a lot of data that we passed on to the next strike group that will take over for us.”

ESG-1 passed the baton to ESG-8, an East coast-based strike group centered aboard USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau will be joined by Gonzalez, which as part of the Sea Swap initiative will remain in theatre after swapping out its crew later this month.

With their 5th Fleet mission behind them, ESG-1 is now focused on a safe transit home, continued integrated training to remain sharp in the event of a contingency, and spreading goodwill during the strike group’s remaining port visits, its commander said.

“These Sailors and Marines are headed home to a hero’s welcome,” said Miller. “But being a hero brings special expectations. These young men and women have been great ambassadors for the United States in each port visit this deployment, and I know that they understand the additional obligations this hard-earned status requires of them. I am confident ESG-1 will distinguish itself in 7th Fleet just as it has throughout this deployment.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21948

USS Tarawa returned to San Diego in February of 2006.

ESG 1 Visits Singapore

Story Number: NNS060124-03
Release Date: 1/24/2006 1:00:00 PM

By Lt. Ron Flanders, Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Public Affairs

CHANGI NAVAL BASE, Singapore (NNS) -- Three ships and nearly 3,700 Sailors and Marines of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 departed Singapore Jan. 21 after a three-day port visit.

The amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1), the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), the dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and the embarked Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit are transiting through the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility on their way home after a successful deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

“The Sailors and Marines of Expeditionary Strike Group 1 enjoyed a well-deserved quality port visit in Singapore,” said Rear Adm. Victor Guillory, commander, Task Force 76. “The men and women of the ESG 1 team are all true heroes and represent the best our nation has to offer the world. They conducted themselves as true ambassadors.”

The port visit offered Sailors and Marines a chance to enjoy one of Asia’s most relaxing and diverse liberty destinations.

“Singapore is a great port,” said Ship’s Serviceman Seaman David Arrellano, of Cleveland. “It is a very modern city with a lot of great people. I would love to come back here and experience it again.”

“Everyone treats you with hospitality here,” said Electrician’s Mate Fireman Adam Roberts, of Pearl Harbor. “My favorite part was visiting Chinatown; the food was excellent and we got a chance to do a lot of great shopping.”

ESG 1 Sailors and Marines took advantage of all of Singapore’s many recreational and cultural attractions, while at the same time acting as American ambassadors to their gracious hosts.

“People here are so nice. If you just mind your manners and be polite, it’s easy to have a great time,” said Roberts.

Dozens of Cleveland Sailors and Marines participated in the Adopt-a-Sailor program, visiting homes of Singaporean residents for home-cooked meals and a chance to experience local culture.

“The people here treat us like kings,” said Command Master Chief (SW) Jeffrey Budd, of Cleveland. “Everyone enjoyed themselves.”

Tarawa Sailors also spread goodwill during their time in Singapore. Eighteen volunteers visited two local elderly assisted-living communities, performing clean-up projects like painting, cleaning windows and general cleaning for the residents.

“They really appreciated us being here,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Edward Nagbe. “I had an awesome time volunteering.”

“Our Sailors did a great job,” said Cmdr. Randal Craft, Tarawa’s chaplain and project coordinator. “We wanted to leave something behind that has a positive impact on these residents and on Singapore. It’s very rewarding to know we made a difference.”

ESG 1 is an adaptive and agile naval force comprised of six ships and a submarine. Commanded by a flag officer, ESG 1 is a relevant tool for today’s threat environment, and can conduct operations across the operational spectrum. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22047
Focus on Expeditionary Strike Group 1
http://www.navy.mil/local/esg1

Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Story Archive
http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=223

ESG 1 Disestablished After "Operational Excellence"

Story Number: NNS060722-03
Release Date: 7/22/2006 10:02:00 AM

By Lt. Ron Flanders, Expeditionary Strike Group 1 Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Navy’s Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) concept took another step in its evolution when the Navy disestablished ESG 1 in a ceremony aboard its former flagship, USS Tarawa (LHA 1), July 21 at Naval Base San Diego.

In its last deployment, the 5,000 Sailors and Marines of ESG 1, commanded by Rear Adm. Michael A. LeFever, validated the adaptive flag and general officer-led ESG command and control structure, completing missions across the spectrum of combat and humanitarian operations. As such, the Navy will now maintain a permanent ESG staff in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to embark amphibious ready groups (ARGs) who enter the theatre in the future.

“This strike group achieved unheralded effects in its operations; it proved its worth as an adaptable, lethal and agile force,” said LeFever. “The ESG construct fulfilled every mission and continues to adapt.”

During the deployment, the strike group, which consisted of Tarawa, the amphibious transport dock USS Cleveland (LPD 7), amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65), guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61) and the embarked Marines of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), made history.

ESG 1 participated in the largest multinational exercise in the world, Bright Star, which takes place every two years in Egypt. Then, after offloading Marines into Kuwait to support critical Iraqi elections, the strike group quickly reacted to the major earthquake that devastated the Pakistani region of Kashmir in early October 2005.

LeFever and elements of his staff surged to Islamabad to lead the Disaster Assistance Center, Pakistan (DAC-PAK), the U.S. military disaster relief command, while ESG 1 ships Pearl Harbor and Cleveland delivered several hundred tons of relief supplies to the port of Karachi. According to LeFever, opinion polls in Pakistan taken before and after the disaster showed that positive opinions of the United States tripled, due in part to the humanitarian aid.

Vice Adm. James Zortman, commander, Naval Air Forces, told the Sailors and Marines in formation what their contributions meant.

“Pakistan is a key ally in the global war on terrorism,” Zortman said. “And Pakistan’s bilateral relationship with the United States is critical for the stability and security of the entire region.”

ESG 1 stood up in Februrary 2003 as the first of three West Coast-based, flag and general officer-led ESGs. The Chief of Naval Operations and the Commandant of the Marine Corps commissioned an experiment with this model and the East Coast-based model, which did not include a flag or general officer in command. As a result of more than three years of ESG deployments, the Navy has elected to use the flag and general-led model, keeping a forward deployed staff in Bahrain.

“ESG 1 has demonstrated the flexibility of the Navy/Marine Corps team across the whole spectrum of operations,” Zortman said. “You brought a capability from the sea that no other country in the world has or could bring. You delivered on a term of operational excellence. Your Navy, your Marine Corps and your nation are grateful.”

Marine Brig. Gen. Carl Jensen is currently the forward deployed ESG commander in the 5th Fleet area of operations.

LeFever now assumes duties as director, Military Personnel Plans and Policy Division, N13, at the Office of the CNO in Washington, D.C. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=24799

Tarawa Participates in PASSEX with Mexican Navy

Story Number: NNS070330-19
Release Date: 3/30/2007 1:03:00 PM

From USS Tarawa Public Affairs

USS TARAWA, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1), along with the Mexican Navy ship Usumacinta (A-412), conducted passing exercise (PASSEX) training off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, on March 26.

Officers, chiefs and crew members from both nations participated in an exchange program between ships to get a better understanding of how each Navy operates.

“This was the first time I had ever been aboard a ship as large as Tarawa, we were very impressed with the size and how clean it was,” said Lt. Jorge Castañon, operations officer, Usumacinta. “The crew must be very proud of her.”

Prior to their joint at sea exercises, the Tarawa trained the Usumacinta’s damage controlmen in U.S. Navy damage control techniques and equipment. In exchange, the Mexican sailors taught the Tarawa Sailors how to lose gracefully at soccer.

“The program not only gave us the opportunity to exchange ideas and make new friends, but it also benefits both our nations’ forces in possible future operations,” said Aviation Boatswain's Mate Handling 1st Class Eddy Enriquez.

Lt. John Connally, communications officer embarked aboard Tarawa, said cordial relations between the navys of the Americas is one of the key factors towards the stability in the region.

“The CNO (chief of naval operations) has stated clearly his intentions towards forming a worldwide force. Doing these PASSEX’s and communications exercises like this helps us understand each other’s capabilities,” said Connally. “Together we can become one total force.” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28597

ATG Pacific Evaluates Tarawa Sailors During ULTRA-S

Story Number: NNS070705-04
Release Date: 7/5/2007 12:28:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elena Velazquez, USS Tarawa Public Affairs

USS TARAWA, At Sea (NNS) -- After successfully completing over 10 drills during a three-day period, USS Tarawa (LHA1) passed the Unit Level Training Readiness Assessment Sustainment (ULTRA-S) inspection June 28.

Alpha fires, mines in the water, man overboard and intruder on the quarterdeck were some of the different types of drills Tarawa conducted. Throughout the inspection, Tarawa’s training teams in damage control, combat systems, force protection, medical and others were evaluated through training team scenarios by Afloat Training Group (ATG) Pacific. The assessment also covers seamanship, navigation and the Maintenance Material Management (3M) program.

“ULTRA-S is basically a way for ATG to be able to establish whether or not the command’s training teams have been doing their job and making sure everything is correct and current,” said Damage Controlman Chief Gary Wise, ATG Member.

The crew’s enthusiasm and energy throughout ULTRA-S resulted in scores of 100 in five categories: Air Department, Cryptology, Intelligence, Search and Rescue, and Undersea Warfare.

“It is just a snapshot of where the ship’s training is at and to make sure everything is on track. We have seen a lot of good motivation, the crew has been doing very well, the training groups are knowledgeable and they are doing a great job together,” added Wise.

Some drills where ship-wide and involved every Sailor and all seven repair lockers, while other drills focused on a particular duty section’s in-port emergency response team or repair locker.

“Concluding our 10 drill assessment, ATG and Tarawa training members seem to be on the same page with the level of readiness of the crew,” said Tarawa’s Damage Control training team member Damage Controlman Chief Jimmy Bailey.

Since early March, Tarawa Sailors have been performing drills at least three times a week.

“The practice drills have been going on for a long time and you can really notice a difference in motivation and proficiency in the crew,” said Hull Technician 2nd Class Adrian Garcia. “We are communicating and working as a team, it’s great how we’re all fitting together.” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=30401

Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group Deploys

Story Number: NNS071106-07
Release Date: 11/6/2007 3:19:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Alexia M. Riveracorrea, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The San Diego element of the Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) departed Nov. 5 for a six-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations.

Units from San Diego include Amphibious Squadron 1, USS Tarawa (LHA 1), USS Cleveland (LPD 7), USS Germantown (LSD 42), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and elements of Naval Beach Group 1. USS Port Royal (CG 73), USS Hopper (DDG 70) and USS Ingraham (FFG 61) will join the Tarawa ESG in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

"We will be working with different units as one team in the Pacific and Indian Oceans," said Capt. John Miley, ESG commander. "The crew is ready to provide support and humanitarian assistance."

More than 5,500 Sailors and Marines make up the Tarawa ESG, which has the flexibility and power to conduct strike warfare and engage enemy forces in the air, on the sea's surface and beneath the surface. In addition, they provide support capabilities using landing craft air cushion and landing craft utility vehicles, CH-46s, CH-53s, AH-1, UH-1, SH-60 helicopters and AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft.

"All the training, preparation and everything we've done over the past year up to this point will now be put to the test wherever we're ordered to go," said Capt. Donald R. Shunkwiler, Tarawa's commanding officer. "Our crew is well-trained to carry out the mission in all aspects."

Prior to ship's departure, families and friends at the pier spent time with their Sailor or Marine, giving their last goodbye.

"My family just hopes the best for me and that I do my job and come back safe," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class (SW) Erik Andrade Torres, Tarawa. "This is my first six-month deployment, and I look forward to visiting new countries, learning more about different cultures and helping the community."

During a 2005 deployment, the Tarawa ESG conducted maritime security operations, participated in Exercise Bright Star and served as an afloat staging base in the North Arabian Gulf, where they trained with the Iraqi navy and protected key Iraqi oil terminals. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33111

Tarawa Arrives to Aid in Tropical Cyclone Humanitarian Efforts

Story Number: NNS071203-07
Release Date: 12/3/2007 5:10:00 PM

From USS Tarawa Public Affairs

TARAWA, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1) and its embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) arrived off the coast of Bangladesh, Dec. 3, to support ongoing humanitarian assistance/disaster relief (HA/DR) operations. They joined the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) there.

They are relieving the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) who have been supporting efforts there. The ships are part of a continued response to a request by the government of Bangladesh for assistance in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Sidr.

"We train for these types of operations to ensure that we're ready to help in a moment's notice. The U.S. military has a history of working with international relief organizations and host nations to reach those affected by disaster," said Capt. John Miley, commander Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 1, embarked aboard Tarawa. "We're set up to be flexible; that's how we do things, we're highly-trained and we feel fortunate that we can reassure our friends and allies of our commitment to the region."

The U.S. military has worked in coordination with Bangladesh government officials, military leaders and international aid organizations in order to ease suffering and provide assistance.

The San Diego-based ship's embarked helicopters and landing craft air cushion (LCAC) can deliver food, medicine and thousands of gallons of fresh water ashore, helping to save lives, lessen suffering, and aid in helping prevent the onset of tropical cyclone-related medical illnesses.

"We provide a unique mix of capabilities including airlift, logistics support and the ability to support the humanitarian relief efforts already in place," said Col. J.W. Bullard, commanding officer of the 11th MEU (SOC). "We are here to demonstrate our resolve in supporting the Bangladeshi government, its military and non-governmental organizations and more importantly, to assist in alleviating the suffering of those Bangladeshi citizens affected by the disaster."

Last week, Tarawa was directed to make best speed towards Bangladesh from the Western Pacific where they were underway on a routine deployment in support of maritime security operations. Tarawa left its homeport of San Diego Nov. 5.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33644

Tarawa's Medical Teams Give Aid To Residents Affected By Tropical Cyclone Sidr

Story Number: NNS071210-12
Release Date: 12/10/2007 4:37:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Zuidema, USS Tarawa Public Affairs

BARGUNA, Bangladesh (NNS) -- Two Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group medical teams provided aid to over 300 Bangladesh residents Dec. 5 who are still recovering from Tropical Cyclone Sidr.

USS Tarawa (LHA 1) arrived in Bangladesh Dec. 3 in response to their government's request to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

"We saw about 300 patients in a matter of five hours," said Lt. Cmdr. Lu Le, a Navy surgical doctor attached to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked aboard Tarawa, and medical team leader. "Those are pretty good numbers for our small team of 10 people."

The team set up three different aid stations within the hospital and treated over 300 locals during the two-day evolution.

"Overall it went really well," said Le. "I was happy with the collaboration we had with the local staff. Local physicians stood along side us as we saw the patients."

Most injuries treated were related to the cyclone.

"With those kinds of winds you can't avoid being hit by the trees, flying debris and everything that went around them," said Le. "We treated a lot of people with wounds, bone fractures and lower back pain. I wish we had more time, so we could continue the work. It's a very rewarding experience to be out here, giving the little we have, to make their world a little better."
http://www.navy.mil/search/
_________________

U. S. Navy Veteran
August 1977 to July 1983

Yoeman Second Class,
with student pilot's license