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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 394 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 425 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Wed Nov 14, 2007 12:29 am    Post subject: Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) - OIF, OSC & MSO-773rd FWFD · Quote USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) with CVW-8 embarked departed Norfolk, Virginia 1 September 2005, with Captain J.R. Haley in command, Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, TRCSG and 7,500 Sailors packed their seabags and left their families behind to heed the nation's call. She will under go her ninth Mediterranean Sea deployment (15h & 16th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet and her 6th Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment in support of  her 2nd Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Steel Curtain (OSC) and 1st Maritime Security Operations (MSO), on the US Navy’s 81st Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet., the US 5th Fleet, reactivated with operational control of the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain in July 1995, while U.S. Naval Forces Central Command operational control extends to the Indian Ocean following the war with Iraq (Operation Desert Storm), with the Commander, 7th Fleet, serving as naval component commander for Central Command, at the beginning of Operation Southern Watch  (commencing 26 August 1992, when President George H. W. Bush announced that the United States and its allies had informed Iraq that in 24 hours Allied aircraft would fly surveillance missions in southern Iraq and were prepared to shoot down any Iraqi aircraft flying south of the 32nd parallel, while President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated at 9 p.m. EST 27 February 1992, flight operations ending at midnight), with Operation Desert Storm commencing in the early morning hours of 17 January 1991 until 27 February 1992, when President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated and Operation Desert Storm would end at midnight) and Operation Desert Shield commencing 2 August 1990 (Iraqi occupation of Kuwait). TRCSG will spend time in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, relieving the San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). This underway marks the final deployment of the famed F-14 Tomcat. The "Tomcatters" of Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 and the "Black Lions" of VF-213, both out of Naval Air Station Oceana, will be the last two Tomcat squadrons to deploy. This is also the final deployment for the "Scouts" of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24, based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla. The squadrons are scheduled to be decommissioned in 2006. She will under go her 13th Suez Canal transit, en route to the Red Sea on her 11th Gulf of Aden voyage headed southward en route to the Arabian Gulf and upon return will make 12thGulf of Aden voyage en route from the Arabian Gulf to the Red Sea on her 14th Suez Canal transit.  She will under go her tenth deployment since her commission at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Co., Newport News, Virginia on 25 October 1986 and approximately the US Navy’s 773rd Carrier Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD). http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=9493#9493   “Commanded by Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, TRCSG includes the Norfolk-based aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8; the Norfolk-based guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56); the Norfolk-based guided-missile destroyers USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75); the Spanish frigate SPS Alvaro de Bazan (F101); and the combat logistics ships USNS Mount Baker (T-AE 34) from Naval Weapons Station Earle, N.J., Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760), and fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) from Norfolk, Va.” (Ref. 84A & 681D). http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=19883 http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22660 The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), along with Carrier Air Wing 8, departed Norfolk, Va., September 1 in support of the global war on terrorism. Nearly 7,500 Sailors packed their seabags and left their families behind to heed the nation's call. "We're ready to go, largely due to the hard work put in by our Sailors, but in no small measure due to the tremendous support we've received throughout the Tidewater area," said Winnefeld. "This support comes from those who help man, train and equip us, and from our friends and families, who provide such important moral support." This underway marks the final deployment of the famed F-14 Tomcat. The "Tomcatters" of Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 and the "Black Lions" of VF-213, both out of Naval Air Station Oceana, will be the last two Tomcat squadrons to deploy. This is also the final deployment for the "Scouts" of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24, based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla. The squadrons are scheduled to be decommissioned in 2006. TRCSG will likely spend time in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, relieving the San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=19883 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Atlantic from 1 to 12 September 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), on a whirlwind tour of the Mediterranean Sea, visited Palma de Mallorca, Spain from 13 to 17 September 2005 and then made a two-day transit to Naples, Italy, for a port visit Sept. 19-23. TR, currently on a routine, scheduled deployment, departed her homeport of Norfolk, Va., Sept. 1 and arrived in the Mediterranean Sea a week later. The ship’s crew hosted more than 300 distinguished visitors and media members who were able to tour the ship. Evening receptions were held for each country’s dignitaries and military officials. Community relations (COMREL) projects conducted in host countries also gave Sailors a chance to help local communities and serve as positive ambassadors for the United States and the Navy. “By lending a helping hand and putting smiles on the faces of people, other countries will see that we are a nation that helps others,” said volunteer Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Michael Johnson. “Helping others is good for our foreign relations.” In Palma de Mallorca, TR Sailors volunteered to repair shutters, paint and do yard work at the Project Home Drug Rehabilitation Center, Ses Sitjoles Campos, La Vileta Center and Categena Elderly Home. “COMREL projects have been around for many years,” said Lt. Cmdr. Donald R. Moss, a chaplain aboard TR. “Our goal is to do good things in overseas communities.” Sailors also volunteered their off-time in Naples, Italy, serving food at a downtown soup kitchen morning and evening, as well as having some play time at Centro Laila Children's Home. Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Roosel Chalwell believes that volunteer service helps both the local community and the U.S. “It is an asset to our nation for us to do these projects,” said Chalwell. “It demonstrates that we are a kind and generous people. It is the best example of our core values.” "We were delighted to have had the opportunity to operate in the Mediterranean and contribute to the theater commander's various objectives," said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2. "Inviting visitors aboard our ships, participating in community relations projects and acting as good ambassadors of the United States while on liberty are all very enjoyable ways we contribute to those objectives.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20318 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 17 to 18 September 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) made a two-day transit to Naples, Italy for a port visit from 19 to 23 September 2005, after visiting Palma de Mallorca, Spain (Sept. 13-17). USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Mediterranean Sea on 23 September 2005. Personnel from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, along with two of its EA-6B Prowlers, departed USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Sept. 24 while in the Mediterranean Sea, to enhance the mission capability of Marine Electronic Attack Squadron (VMAQ) 1, based out of Al Asad, Iraq, establishing a detachment Sept. 17 at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq prior to the TRCSG arriving in theater. The first combat flight operations during the deployment were not conducted from the ship but rather from a forward deployed detachment. VAQ-141 led the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group’s (TRCSG) first combat flights in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Sept. 24. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21352 “The previous carrier completed its mission here, so we went ahead of the TR battle group so there wouldn’t be any loss of aerial support for the Marine Corps ground forces,” said Cmdr. Paul Mckeon, commanding officer, VAQ-141. The Prowlers are used for their unique electronic warfare capabilities to support coalition ground forces in Iraq. To help facilitate this mission, the aircraft were outfitted with additional equipment which enhanced their mission effectiveness. VAQ-141 technicians were trained how to maintain and troubleshoot this new equipment. For some VAQ-141 personnel this was a unique experience in that it was their first time performing their jobs in a combat zone, on the ground. “I never thought I would go into Iraq, so I was pretty pumped up about this,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Joseph Conrad, of Augusta, Maine. “It was definitely a unique experience for me. I could be in the Navy for 20 years and probably never have the opportunity to do something like this again.” Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Thomas Ortello of St. Paul, Minn., said this experience will benefit him and other Sailors he works with during his time in the Navy. “It gave me a better perspective of my job and its importance,” Ortello said. “Having been in that environment will help me to pass along to other Sailors the importance of our work.” Ortello said. The personnel from VAQ-141, 13 officers and 50 enlisted members in all, returned to TR Oct. 6, where they joined the rest of the squadron and CVW- 8. By mission’s end, VAQ-141 had conducted 37 combat sorties with a total of 165 hours of flight time. “It was a team effort,” said Mckeon. “Because of the small size of our detachment, everyone had to help in areas that were not their normal expertise. We were all proud to be a part of OIF and lead the charge for the TRCSG. Everyone pulled together to complete the mission.” The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations, which set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. Maritime Security Operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20549   USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) made her 13th Suez Canal transit, for way to the Red Sea en route to the Arabian Gulf on 27 September 2005. The canal extends from Port Said to Port Tawfiq and connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea. The Canal stretches 167 kilometers across the Egyptian desert and has been widened twice. In the early morning hours, TR set special sea and anchor detail and special navigation detail as the ship entered Port Said at the opening of the Suez Canal. At an average speed of nine knots, TR, USS San Jacinto (CG 56), USS Kanawha (T-AO 196) and the Spanish ship Alvaro De Bazan (FF 101), a Spanish frigate, all part of the TR carrier strike group, began their transit through the canal. The four ships were the tail end of a 30-ship convoy transiting down the canal’s southbound sea lanes and then transiting a little more slowly through the Great Bitter Lake. Once past the lake, the four ships traveled through the Bay of Suez and into the Red Sea. “It was an entire team effort that made this work,” said Cmdr. Dave Taylor, TR’s navigator. “This wasn’t just a team effort with the bridge team, but the entire ship. The chief engineer and the reactor officer both had people standing by to give us a faster response time on the engines and faster reaction time in case of any problems. Deck department was standing by during the transit through the Great Bitter Lake just in case we had to drop anchor for any reason. [In addition,] the masters-at-arms protect us from threats during these times of increased force protection measures.” Construction began on the Suez Canal in 1859 and was completed in 1867. In 1869, the canal was officially inaugurated. Then in 1888, all the major European governmental powers declared the canal neutral and guaranteed free passage to all ship in times of peace and war. Coalition maritime forces operate under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20463 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 23 to 27 September 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) made her Red Sea voyage en route to the Arabian Gulf from 28 to 29 September 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Gulf of Aden, her 11thGulf of Aden voyage from 30 September to 2 October 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) CSG relieved Nimitz CSG, in the Persian Gulf, underway in the Arabian Sea from 3 to 4 October 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf on 5 October 2005. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 launched its first combat operations from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) in more than two and a half years Oct. 6, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). More than half of the air wing’s personnel participated in flight operations involving missions over the land and sea. The Bear Aces of Carrier Airbone Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124, the Scouts of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24, and the Tridents of Helicopter Squadron (HS) 3, flew missions in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) to help promote stability in the maritime environment. Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 and VF-31, along with the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87 and VFA-15, flew over the beach to support coalition ground forces in Iraq. The Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 were operating out of Al Asad, Iraq, from Sept. 24 to Oct. 6, flying 37 combat sorties. Sixty-three personnel from the squadron were flown from TR in support of this mission. Although each mission is different, all aircraft worked toward the same goal in setting conditions for security throughout the region. For VFA-87’s Airman Mark Chambers of Ashville, N.C., this was his first time to be involved with combat flight operations. Chambers was eager to participate with real-time flight operations and took the initiative to be one of the first participants. “I asked my [leading petty officer] to put me on the schedule for one of the first jets to be launched,” said Chambers. “It gives me a great sense of pride knowing that I could have helped save a bunch of people on the ground.” “Everyone’s attitude is always pumped up for live ordnance,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Andrew Ferguson, from Toledo, Ohio. “I’m just happy to be helping to save lives.” The events were actually TR’s first day on the job. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20517 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) selected Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class (AW/SW) Kevin Harpham as its Sailor of the Quarter (SOQ) Oct. 7. Harpham represented aircraft intermediate maintenance department (AIMD) as its SOQ, which put him into the running with first class petty officers from all other departments on the ship. “It was an honor to be selected as the Sailor of the Quarter for AIMD because it is a huge department,” Harpham said. “But to be recognized as Sailor of the Quarter for the entire ship, that’s an even bigger honor.” Harpham checked aboard TR in February and said he has worked hard to get where he is today. “It was very self-gratifying to know that I have not even been on board a year yet and already I have been recognized as the Sailor of the Quarter for the ship,” Harpham said. “I got here and hit the ground running. I try to be a team player and help everyone. I give 100 percent, and I don’t take ‘no’ for an answer.” Harpham’s strong work ethic caught the eye of his chain of command, which was responsible for nominating him for the award. “He is the type of Sailor who, from the day he checked on board, showcased his qualities as a leader,” said Chief Aviation Support Equipment Technician (AW/SW) Nathaniel Mejorada, IM-4 division's leading chief petty officer. Harpham, of Willard, Ohio, works in AIMD as IM- 4 division’s production leading petty officer. Harpham is responsible for 58 Sailors, six work centers and more than 1,600 items of support equipment, including the hangar bay forklifts and cranes. Harpham also assists with any personnel, maintenance and equipment evolutions within the division. “His superb performance is one key factor that got him selected,” Mejorada said. “He is the one running the show in the shop. We (the chiefs and officers of IM-4) are here for guidance and suggestions. Harpham said for now he is concentrating his efforts on being selected as Sailor of the Year, but he is looking at one day becoming an IM-4 division officer. He said he is constantly trying to improve as a manager and leader, and his advice for all junior Sailors is, “Take every opportunity you have. Don’t pass up anything that allows you the opportunity to grow and learn.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20527 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) selected Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW/AW) Ingrid Knight as its Senior Sailor of the Quarter (SSOQ) Oct. 7. Knight is in charge of Preventive Health Assessment and Birth Month Recall, which includes administering shots and hearing tests to Sailors during their birth month to make sure they are up to date with the Navy’s health requirements. “I was surprised when I heard that I was named the ship’s SSOQ,” Knight said. “I owe it to the great supporting cast I have here in medical." Without a staff like this, winning this award would not have been possible,” he added. Knight has been in the Navy for five years, aboard TR since March 2003, and said he was flattered by this distinction. The supporting cast she talks of agrees with the decision to choose Knight as SSOQ. “She is a great motivator and is dedicated to her job,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW/AW) Joseph Nicholls. “She was nominated for this award because she was the best qualified. She is very knowledgeable and professional.” Although Knight admits she could not have won this award alone, she also said that hard work is the key to job success. “You should work hard at your job no matter what it is,” Knight said. “I take my work seriously, and even if I didn’t get recognized for the job I did, I’m still satisfied because I know I gave it my all.” Going to the board was intimidating said Knight. She had a pre-board with Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman (SW/AW) Marina LeTourneau, medical department’s leading chief petty officer, and Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/AW) Troy Murphy, medical department’s leading petty officer, where she practiced before the big day. “It wasn’t easy, and the competition was tough,” Knight said. “I’m glad it’s finally over.” “I wasn’t surprised she won,” Nicholls said. “If you worked with her, you would expect no less.” Knight will take her knowledge and expertise to her next job at the clinic at Naval Air Station Oceana in March. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20528 USS Oscar Austin's (DDG 79) Damage Control Training Team and senior members from the ship’s Engineering Repair Division embarked the Bahraini Ship RBNS Sabha, a former Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate, Oct. 9 to discuss the procedures, organization, and importance of damage control at Bahrain’s Naval Station. Sabha had just finished an extended yard period and requested Oscar Austin's assistance to maximize the crew’s damage control (DC) readiness. The frigate’s chief engineer welcomed the group on the quarterdeck and escorted them below to the crew’s mess. “I enjoyed the time discussing our DC organization with the Bahraini Navy. The officers and crew members from the Sabha were very interested in how we operate," said Lt. j.g. Adam Cummins, Oscar Austin DC assistant. "We also got the opportunity to discuss the finer points of DC. We all thought this was a fun and meaningful experience." Oscar Austin crew members walked the Bahrainis through a drill package created for the event. They also showed the Sabha DC teams the props U.S. Navy ships use during drills, including various flags that represent classes of fires and a smoke machine. “They were willing to learn. I wish it could have been longer, so we could have observed them do one of their drills," said Chief Damage Controlman Jose Velez. "It was worthwhile, though." http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20726 Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/AW) Terry Scott and Sgt. Major of the Marine Corps John Estrada visited Sailors aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Oct. 13 to let crew members know their work is appreciated. TR Sailors have been on deployment for more than a month, launching aircraft daily off TR’s flight deck to support coalition ground forces in Iraq. Enlisted crew members can’t see the direct impact of their hard work because they are at a distance, but with a visit from their Senior enlisted leaders, Sailors now know how important their jobs are and how people around the world depend on their hard work and determination. “You are protecting our way of life,” said Estrada. “We will be successful in our mission and it’s because of the support you give us. We couldn’t do it with out you.” The MCPON spoke about various issues that Sailors need to overcome in order for the mission to continue successfully. “We need to be flexible and adaptable,” said Scott. “We are going to be assigned missions we may never have predicted. We need to be ready whenever our nation calls on us so we can be prepared for the next typhoon, hurricane or 9/11.” “We need to be healthy and fit not just before the physical fitness assessment but all the time, so we can have a healthy and fit force," he added. "We also need to be financially fit. I’m tired of good Sailors losing their clearance because of financial issues.” The MCPON also touched on how it’s important for Sailors to take care of any personal problems they may have at home. The Navy and Marine Corps offers many avenues for Sailors to get their family life back on track. “I always hear the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Mike Mullen, say that even the Sailor of the Year or the best Sailor at a command can be brought to their knees with problems at home,” said Scott. “Your jobs are important and need your focus and attention. Any distraction can be devastating to our mission.” “We have to stay committed to make sure your families are taken care of, as well," he said. Issues at home weren’t the only personal problems the MCPON addressed. If a Sailor runs into a personal problem on the job, they need to report it immediately. “Hazing, harassment, assault or sexual harassment are career-enders,” said Scott. “There is no place for behavior like that in the Navy.” “This is a defining time in our world history,” said Estrada. “You have stepped up to the plate and said ‘Our nation needs me right now.’ "And because of your training, preparation and determination, we dominate the seas with the world’s best Navy. We dominate the airspace with the world’s best pilots, naval aviators, and the world’s best aircraft," he said. "They are the best because they will fly in almost all types of weather, whenever our ground forces request it.” The MCPON told the TR crew that their concerns and issues are important to him. The MCPON and Sgt. Major bring up issues to elected officials on Capitol Hill all the time, they said, and they cannot do it without hearing from the driving force of the Navy, its Sailors. “We need to know what your thoughts are,” said Scott. “If you haven’t expressed your opinion, please let it be known. Right now we have too many uniforms for the sea bag. Our uniforms are hard to maintain and not practical. We need something that can be worn all year and can stand a lot of wear and tear. The uniforms will change eventually, but as of right now, it is unclear when.” Estrada said the key to being successful is taking care of each other. If you are in a leadership position, make sure the mission is accomplished no matter what, he said. “Make sure your Sailors are well trained and well equipped and prepared to go to combat,” said Estrada. “Our ground forces are kicking butt, and it is because of you.” TR is currently operating in the Persian Gulf in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20606 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8’s Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 “Black Lions” welcomed Cmdr. Dan Cave as their new commanding officer Oct. 16 in an airborne change of command ceremony while flying F-14D Tomcats. Cave relieved Cmdr. Brian Kocher as they performed a fly-by past TR. The two Tomcats flew side-by-side as they approached the ship. The tour as CO of a squadron is normally 15 months, and starts with a tour as the squadron’s executive officer (XO) for 15 months before taking command. “It’s a bittersweet feeling,” said Cave. “As the XO, you look forward to what you can accomplish as the CO, and now that I made it to this point, I don’t want it to end.” Cave said he is looking toward a successful deployment for VF-213 personnel, and he plans to bring everyone home safely. Once they return from deployment, Cave will start VF-213’s transition from flying F-14D Tomcats to flying F/A-18F Super Hornets. Before coming to VF-213, Cave graduated from The National War College at Fort McNair, Wash., with a Master of Science degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. Prior to obtaining his Master’s degree, he worked as the aide to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, a job he was hand-selected for while stationed at Supreme Allied Command Atlantic in Norfolk, Va. Cave flew F-14Ds from TR’s flight deck during operations in Kosovo (1998) and in Bosnia (1995). In between these two tours, Cave instructed new pilots on the F-14 and acted as the tactics phase leader for VF-101 “Grim Reapers” out of Naval Air Station, Oceana. He flew in operations from USS John F. Kennedy’s (CV 67) flight deck in support of operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm also while stationed with VF-101 as an ensign. Kocher has transferred to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and will be working as the ship's operations officer. The TR Carrier Strike Group is currently on deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations, setting the conditions for security and stability in the Persian Gulf region, which will help provide the Iraqi people the opportunity for self-determination. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20668 Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 stationed aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) continued to provide support to coalition troops on the ground in Iraq Oct. 19. F-14 Tomcats from Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 conducted precision strikes on a known Improvised Explosive Device (IED) production facility northeast of Baghdad. The fighter jets joined a handful of other Roosevelt-based aircraft this week that have conducted strikes in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom while protecting coalition ground troops. IEDs have been one of the biggest threats to coalition ground forces since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The airstrikes underscore the success that Roosevelt-based aircraft have had working with coalition troops on the ground in the last several weeks. “We are happy with what we have been able to bring to the fight since our arrival in the theater a few weeks ago,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “Whether we are hitting targets of opportunity called in from our troops on the ground, or conducting pre-planned strikes on known terrorist sites, we will continue to do whatever is necessary to protect our ground forces. At the same time, we will continue to do our part to help set the conditions for security and stability so the Iraqi people have the opportunity to determine their own future.” Other CVW-8 aircraft continue to fly missions such as convoy escorting, patrolling oil pipelines and protecting new construction. Since their arrival in the Persian Gulf, Roosevelt-based aircraft have provided close air support to coalition troops in the vicinities of Al Hillah, Al Mansuriyah, Baquba, Basrah, Kirkuk, Madain, Mosul and Tall Afar. The Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group is currently operating in the Persian Gulf in support of maritime security operations and Operation Iraqi Freedom. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20703 The arresting gear personnel “Gear Dogs” of USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) V-2 division helped TR achieve a new milestone with the recovery of its 160,000 aircraft over the ship’s 19-year history. The recovery was completed at 7:23 p.m. Oct. 25, when Lt. Jay Haddock, flying an S-3B Viking, successfully tail hooked arresting gear wire number 4. According to Arresting Gear Branch Officer, Lt. John Oliver, the night’s trap was an amazing accomplishment, but not nearly as impressive as the personnel who made it possible. “While 160,000 recoveries is quite an accomplishment for a carrier, the 160,000th trap is no different than number 160,001,” said Oliver. “What is significant is that for 160,000 arrestments, the gear has been maintained, and will continue to be maintained by the ‘Gear Dogs’ in a safe and operable condition to bring our aviators back onboard TR." The “Gear Dogs” consist of nearly 40 Sailors whose sole purpose is to make sure all aircraft landing on TR are safely recovered. V-2 is divided into two work centers; the topside crew and the below deck maintenance crew. Each one is critical to the other’s success, and both play a key role to ensure TR successfully completes all of its flight operation missions. The topside crew is manned by eight to 10 personnel. They inspect the arresting gear systems, particularly the wires to make sure they are operable and safe to use. “We play a very vital role,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Equipment 3rd Class Felix Torres. “Pilots have told me that one of their biggest concerns is being able to stop safely, and we are the ones who make sure that happens.” The below deck personnel serve as the backbone of the “Gear Dogs." They are responsible for the upkeep of the ship’s five arresting gear systems. It’s not uncommon to find them any time, day or night, performing maintenance checks or repairs if needed, ensuring the above deck personnel have the equipment to use for flight deck recoveries at all times. “Nobody every really sees or hears about us,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Equipment 1st Class (AW) Dorian Fair. “Everyone seems to only see the crew on the flight deck … it’s as if we work undercover.” “Every night and day, we are doing the maintenance to keep the equipment working,” said Fair. “Without us, there isn’t any recovery of aircraft.” There are five arresting gear systems aboard TR. Four use the arresting wire to stop aircraft, and the fifth is an emergency barricade system that uses a net to stop aircraft incapable of using a tail hook to catch the arresting wire. Each wire is 2,200 feet in length, of which 110 feet is visible across the flight deck. Each wire is capable of stopping an aircraft weighing up to 60,000 pounds. The crews who make up the “Gear Dogs” work an average of 19 hours per day to accomplish their mission. Their responsibilities require them to be flexible, disciplined and open minded. “It’s all about how you manage your time,” said Airman Joseph Brown. “To work here, you have to know how to get the most of your down time so you can get some sleep or grab a meal. It isn’t as bad a people might think.” As TR continues to support Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations in the Persian Gulf, the Gear Dogs will play a vital part. As with every role aboard the ship, the overall mission couldn’t be achieved without them. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20788 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) named Airman (AW) Lori Swift of V-2 division's Maintenance Control as Blue Jacket of the Quarter (BJOQ) for October 2005. Swift, a native of Bath, N.Y., has been in the Navy for a little more than a year and half, and one year of that has been aboard TR. “She is constantly looking for any available program that promotes future growth,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) Chukudi Crawford, V-2 Maintenance Control leading petty officer. “She has completed all prescribed personnel qualification standards, as well as earned her air warfare pin.” Swift inputs job orders for the catapults and arresting wires. She also tracks how many launches and recoveries the ship has done. “She stood out from peers by going that extra mile,” Crawford said. “She contributes to community service around the Hampton Roads area.” “I volunteer for community service projects like Clean the Bay Day,” Swift said. “I am also on the ship’s soccer team.” Swift said she joined the Navy for travel, but she also takes advantage of the educational benefits. “She is very adamant about her education. Currently, she is enrolled in history and algebra,” Crawford said. Balancing work, school and Navy qualifications is not an easy task. Swift’s advice is to “not get discouraged, take everything one step at a time and eventually everything will come together.” Going to the BJOQ board was challenging for Swift, but she anticipated what some of the questions might be. “They asked questions from the basic military requirements manual, the blue jackets manual and current events,” Swift said. “Swift exemplifies all aspects of the Navy’s core values,” said Crawford. “She is wonderful to work with, very delightful and humorous, and has outstanding customer service skills.” Currently, Swift is working on a package to apply for the U.S. Naval Academy. “I have my transcripts and now my BJOQ to add,” Swift said. “All I have to do now is take the SAT.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20551 Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 stationed aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) continued support of Operation Steel Curtain (OSC) throughout the second week of November, conducting five consecutive days of strikes against terrorist targets in support of coalition troops in Iraq. The missions flown during OSC demonstrate the quickness and flexibility of CVW 8 and the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) to provide continuous support on both land and sea. “Carrier Air Wing 8 continues to demonstrate that we can deliver a knock-out punch in support of coalition troops on the ground when called upon to do so,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “Whether fighting terrorism at sea or supporting the fight on the ground, maritime forces continue to make a positive impact in helping set the conditions for the people of Iraq to determine their own future.” Operation Steel Curtain is an offensive aimed at preventing cells of Al Qaeda from entering Iraq through the Syrian border. Coalition ground forces consisting of 1,000 Iraqi Army Soldiers and 2,500 U.S. Marines began the offensive Nov. 4 near the town of Husaybah near the Iraq/Syria border. Husaybah has become a haven for cells of Al Qaeda entering the country through the Syrian border, according to military officials, and they are describing this as the largest military assault since American-led forces stormed Falluja last year. Aircraft from CVW 8 began providing air support for OSC Nov. 6 by flying reconnaissance and strike missions as required to support troops on the ground during the offensive. As troops were taking fire and buildings in Husaybah were identified as insurgent hotbeds, positions were called in to circling aircraft, which responded to the calls. “The personnel of CVW 8 train hard and fight even harder,” said Capt. William G. Sizemore II, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8. “The types of the sorties being executed during Operation Steel Curtain, whether planned or suddenly called in from the ground, demonstrate the agility of this air wing.” F-14 Tomcats assigned to Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 and VF-31, along with F/A-18s assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15, have conducted several strikes on locations being used by Anti-Iraqi Force (AIF) personnel for strategic firing positions against U.S. Marines and coalition ground forces. Since Nov. 6, CVW 8 has flown nearly 400 sorties in support of OSC. Carrier Air Wing 8 first teamed with TR during her maiden deployment in December 1988. Since then, crews from CVW 8 and CVN 71 have joined forces during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch in the Red Sea, operations Deny Flight and Sharp Guard over the skies of Bosnia and the Adriatic, and the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. “Every Sailor is sacrificing personally to ensure our Marines have what they need to be successful during this operation, and together we are making a huge difference – saving Marines’ lives - so they can continue their efforts to slow the number of anti-Iraqi forces coming into Iraq,” said Capt. J.R. Haley, Theodore Roosevelt commanding officer. “Supporting our Marines and the Iraqi soldiers during Operation Steel Curtain makes the sacrifice and hard work during training worth every minute.” In addition to flying missions over Iraq, Theodore Roosevelt-based aircraft have been flying missions in support of Maritime Security Operations in the Persian Gulf. In both cases, the aircraft act as eyes for the Soldiers and ships that cannot see the threat and are making a difference in the fight against terrorism. Maritime Security Operations set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations by denying international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21004 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf from 5 October to 23 November 2005 in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Iraqi Freedom, setting the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates on 24 November 2005. The Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD) baptized 16 Sailors aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Nov. 26. The baptism represents the cleansing of oneself and becoming a new person, as well as an expression for others to witness, and it is one of the steps in becoming a follower within the Christian faith. “Sailors from the Gospel Lay Lead service initially requested it,” said Theodore Roosevelt Chaplain Lt. Tommy Myhand. “[Navy chaplains] have been doing things like this since the first Continental Navy.” Planning the service was a combined effort of CRMD, Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) and Hangar Bay Control. “We weren’t sure what we were going to use for the dunk tank,” said Yeoman 1st Class (AW/SW) Richard Wesley, gospel lay leader. “We needed something large and sturdy enough to hold water and people so we could perform the service.” Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Danny Goode of AIMD donated a jet engine casing. It was large enough to fit the needs of the baptism. “This was the first time I have seen or heard of a baptism on an aircraft carrier,” said Goode. “I think it is great for Sailors to have this opportunity while out to sea.” Although deployed in the Persian Gulf supporting Maritime Security Operations and Operation Iraqi Freedom, Sailors still find time to grow spiritually in the midst of a war. “It was very emotional for me,” said Airman Carolyn McNeill. “I did it because I wanted to start a clean slate in my life.” “It’s a rare and unique experience for a baptism to be held on board an aircraft carrier,” said Myhand. “It was a privilege for me to facilitate the service and be a part of TR history.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21292 In late November, approximately 50 aircrew and maintenance personnel from the Valions of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15 and the Golden Warriors of VFA-87 detached to Al Asad, Iraq, with five F/A-18C Hornet aircraft. The detachment was designed to sustain naval tactical air presence in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom while USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) executed a scheduled port call in the United Arab Emirates. Navy personnel deployed to Al Asad christened the makeshift detachment the “Cactus Air Force.” The term “Cactus Air Force” originated during World War II to describe the makeshift collection of Navy, Marine and Air Force combat aircraft assembled during the defense of Guadalcanal (“Cactus” was the Allied codeword for the island). Similar to the original Cactus Air Force, the planes operating out of Al Asad included multiple types of aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. Although operating in a foreign environment totally different from an aircraft carrier, the Sailors of VFA-15 and VFA-87 provided combat-ready aircraft under the most challenging of circumstances. As Sailors from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 arrived in Al Asad, they had to overcome numerous obstacles to operate successfully in Iraq. Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate James Cunningham of VFA-87 pointed out some of the initial difficulties. “We had to pistol qualify all detached personnel. We then had to issue pistols and ammo to each person, along with flack jackets and cold weather gear,” Cunningham said. The maintainers in the detachment also had to pack enough tools and spare parts to maintain the Hornet contingent for at least a week. “If we didn’t have a part that we needed, the Marines from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 332 were always more than willing to lend us a hand,” said Storekeeper 2nd Class Teddy Mirjah, of VFA-15. CVW-8 Sailors commandeered an abandoned MiG-25 hangar for their work center, and, coordinating with maintainers from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, the Hornet maintenance personnel were able to set up an efficient working environment in a relatively short time. Everyone had to adjust to Al Asad’s living conditions. Each Sailor was housed in temporary living units called “cans,” which were furnished only with a bed and an electric heater. Navy personnel had to keep a firearm and body armor on or near their person at all times. “I came to appreciate what the Marines have to go through over here,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class Kirfred Watkins. “The living conditions are rough, and many of them spend a year deployed in Iraq with little or no leave.” Given the difficulties of setting up a detachment in the Iraqi desert, Sailors from CVW 8 performed admirably. “I could not have asked for a better group of maintainers,” said Ensign John E. Harris, the Detachment Maintenance Officer. He also noted the contributions VAQ-141, VMFA-332, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 26, Marine Air Logistics Squadron (MALS) 26, and particularly Lt. Ramiro Flores, the detachment coordinator back on board Theodore Roosevelt. “The detachment was a tremendous success,” said Capt. William G. Sizemore, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8. “The Navy brought 5 F/A-18Cs and 37 maintenance personnel to Al Asad and flew 8 sorties a day during a 12-hour flight window. The team effort between the Sailors maintaining the Hornets and the Marines of VMFA-332 was the top contributing factor to our success here in Iraq.” Situated west of Baghdad in the desert just south of the Euphrates, Al Asad was constructed next to a palm grove called “Abraham’s Oasis.” (Local legend maintains that the biblical Abraham dipped his feet in the spring while passing through.) The facility was once Saddam Hussein’s premier MiG-25 Foxbat airbase. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21291 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 24 to 27 November 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf on 28 November 2005. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) joined the families of USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) for their annual holiday party Dec. 4 at the Breezy Point Officer's Club here. Over a three-week period, employees of OPM at their headquarters in Washington, D.C., and in regional offices from San Francisco to Norfolk collected more than 1,200 toys to be delivered to children of Roosevelt Sailors. OPM, headquartered in the Theodore Roosevelt Federal Building in the nation’s capital, officially 'adopted' the ship shortly after Sept. 11, 2001, when she and the crew began fighting global the war on terrorism. This holiday season the ship is once again overseas. Each child received a couple of toys to show “OPM’s appreciation for the hard work their parents do in protecting our freedom here at home,” said Gary Acker, coordinator of the toy drive for the agency. OPM also helped record a video holiday postcard that will be sent to the children's parents serving overseas. The wife of commanding officer Capt. J.R. Haley said, “Since it is the holiday season, and we miss being with our spouses, the video that the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is making of today’s party will allow us to share this happy event with everyone aboard the ship.” More than 300 children indulged in hot dogs, chicken fingers, popcorn and cookies. Between having their faces painted and drawing holiday cards, the children also sat on Santa’s lap and whispered into his ear what presents they hoped he would bring on Christmas Day. Spouses had an opportunity to watch a pre-recorded DVD of season’s greetings from Haley and dozens of Sailors aboard the ship. The relationship between OPM and Theodore Roosevelt is very important, according to OPM Director Linda M. Springer. After the party, she summed up the spirit of the afternoon by saying, "Once again, OPM employees have made this holiday season very special for the children of men and women deployed in service to our country.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21387 As reported 7 December 2005, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), along with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO) for more than two months, and continues to make a positive impact on the Gulf region. Since departing Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Sept 1., the nearly 7,500 Sailors who make up TRCSG and CVW-8, have used teamwork to successfully support Iraqi oil platform security; Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations; and provide support to coalition troops in Iraq. “I am extremely proud of the 7,000 Sailors in our strike group, each one of whom makes a vital contribution every day to our success, whether at sea fighting terrorism or helping to set the conditions for security and stability in this region,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “Together, we’re all determined to carry this important mission through, until our last day underway.” CVW-8's Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 led the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group’s first combat flights in support of OIF, when it began flying combat sorties Sept. 24. Since then, aircraft from CVW-8, which consists of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 and VF-31; Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87 and VFA-15; Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24; Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124; and Helicopter Squadron (HS) 3; have conducted strikes in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom while protecting coalition ground troops. From Sept. 24 through Nov. 1, CVW-8 conducted 2,070 sorties, 624 in support of OIF and 557 in support of Maritime Security Operations. USS San Jacinto (CG 56) has been a key factor for success during TRCSG deployment with its use of VBSS Teams. VBSS operations pressurize the maritime environment, playing a significant role in shaping the environment and setting the conditions for other forces to engage international terrorist organizations (ITO). These operations intercept vessels that may support international terrorist organizations by transferring personnel or such items as weapons and drugs. VBSS operations are intended to detect, deter, and deny ITOs the use of the maritime environment. The Sailors of the San Jacinto VBSS teams have inspected more than 50 local fishing dhows in order to enhance maritime security and provide goodwill packages to fishermen. USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) have been busy in the northern Persian Gulf as a part of the TRCSG by providing protection in Iraqi territorial waters and their two major oil terminals, Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya (KAAOT). In addition to providing security, Oscar Austin Sailors also helped to better the lifestyles of the Sailors, Marines, and Iraqis who live and work on the platforms. Several culinary specialists and a food service assistant were sent to the KAAOT oil platform to cook fresh, hot meals for those service members. “From the moment we got to the oil platform, we were welcomed with open arms,” said Chief Culinary Specialist (SW) Antonio Barrios. “All the Sailors were happy to have a good meal at their table and the taste of home cooking on their lips. I had a great time helping them out.” The efforts of Oscar Austin, Donald Cook and San Jacinto have been effective in denying international terrorists use of the maritime environment and demonstrate TRCSG's team effort in the Persian Gulf region, both on land and at sea. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20921   As F-14 Tomcat aircraft 207 of the "Blacklions" of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 launched the morning of Dec. 11, history was made. For the first time, a forward ground controller, with the call sign of "Antidote," located on the ground near Baghdad, was invited "into" the cockpit of the aircraft via the Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver (ROVER) system. "The new system allows forward ground controllers to see what the aircraft is seeing in real time," said Lt. j.g. Will Parish, radar interceptor officer. "There is no time delay in the system." ROVER allowed Antidote to see real-time images acquired by the aircraft’s sensors by transmitting the images to his laptop. Usage of ROVER greatly improved Antidote’s reconnaissance and target identification, which are essential to the combat air support mission in Iraq. The development team arrived aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Dec. 10 to install the first ROVER systems onto the Tomcats. The squadron maintainers are quickly learning the modification process, providing both VF-213 and VF-31 with complete ROVER capability within a few days. ROVER upgrades to Carrier Air Wing 8 Tomcats will more than double the number of aircraft flying Operation Iraqi Freedom missions with this unique capability. Before ROVER capability, ground controllers had to rely on “visual talk-ons” to hunt for IEDs, track insurgents or follow suspicious vehicles. The ground controller would have a map he used to guide the pilots where they needed to go. "The ground controllers are excited because it eliminates talk-ons," said Parish. "It gives them a lot more confidence when making decisions such as dropping bombs, because they have the same real-time bird's eye view as [the pilots] do." A joint VF-31/VF-213 investigation revealed that it would be possible to modify the F-14D Tomcat with off-the-shelf technology for a mere $800 per aircraft. A team of F-14D experts from the PMA-241 staff at Naval Air Station Paxtuxet River, Md., was presented with this idea in early November, and were able to research, develop, and field this technology within a six-week window. Grumman employees from Naval Air Station Oceana and members of the fleet support team from Naval Air Systems Command Depot (NADEP) Jacksonville were assembled to perform the aircraft modification. "Technology makes us more viable because we have a tool other platforms don't have," said Parish. "ROVER gives us the advantage because ground controllers now prefer us." http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21377 The flight deck personnel on board USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) reached a major milestone Dec. 12. In just 50 days they performed 10,000 aircraft moves without any mishaps. According to Air Department’s V-1 Division Leading Petty Officer Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Brian Ratcliff, most aircraft carriers achieve this many moves in an average of four or five months. Jets are parked within inches of each other, so precision is a must. “Everyone in V-1 who works on the flight deck acts as a safety observer, making sure there are no "crunches," which is when two aircraft hit each other,” said Ratcliff. According to Ratcliff, the flight deck directors formulate a plan and are ready to go as soon as they know when and how many jets are launching and landing. They plan where each jet needs to be for each evolution, and with the help of all who work on the flight deck, everything has come together precisely. “Working on the flight deck is a very demanding, very hard and very physical job. It’s a lot of back-breaking, hard work,” said Ratcliff. “Our guys in Air Department are constantly running across the flight deck all day long in all kinds of weather moving and tying down all the aircraft.” Just like a well oiled machine operates without any glitches, the flight deck personnel worked long, hard hours as an effective team to meet the milestone of 10,000 aircraft moves without any crunches. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21425 As reported on 13 December 2005, the Shadowhawks of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8’s Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 with USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), have overcome many challeges in establishing themselves as the first Navy Prowler squadron to set up operations at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. The electronic warfare capabilities of the Shadowhawks’ EA-6B Prowlers is enhancing the efforts of Marine Electronic Attack Squadron (VMAQ) 1 to provide aerial support for U.S. Marine Corps ground forces in Iraq. The Shadowhawks were first called upon to establish a long-term presence in Iraq Sept. 17. Just days into the deployment, personnel from VAQ-141 – 13 officers and 49 enlisted – departed TR while the ship was anchored for a port visit to Palma De Mallorca, Spain, for a three-week deployment to Al Asad. The Shadowhawks quickly learned that they would have to overcome several challenges presented by their new temporary home. The work facilities had limited electrical access and were without telephone or computer hookups. “We expected the conditions to be as we found them, and it didn’t really matter to us [at the time] because we knew we would only be there for three weeks,” said VAQ-141 Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Mark Curley. With help of the Marines of VMAQ-1, who provided communications equipment and helped with maintenance needs, the Shadowhawks were able to get their Prowlers in the air. By mission’s end, VAQ-141 had conducted 37 combat sorties, with a total of 165 hours of flight time. Shortly after returning to TR the Shadowhawks learned that what they thought would be a one-time experience was about to turn into a long-term presence. The decision was made to send VAQ 141 personnel back to Al Asad, this time for an indefinite period of time. “Being the first Navy Prowler squadron to set up a permanent operational presence in Al Asad presented challenges that were unforeseen," Curley said. "It became apparent that we had our work cut out for us.” The new prospect of a land-based deployment that would last several weeks placed the Shadowhawks in a situation where they would have to find resources needed to build a detachment that could be almost completely self sufficient for an unknown amount of time. The need for a building to operate from, the ability to communicate within Al Asad and back to TR, the need for vehicles, sleeping quarters, work spaces, offices and, more importantly, the capability to perform proper maintenance operations, became unexpected challenges for VAQ 141. "It was almost like a homeport change because you are basically going to a base where they aren’t quite set up to accommodate you,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) 1st Class Richard Peterson. “We had to go ahead and actually build a presence there completely from scratch,” Curley said. “We had to find these items, and in a war zone you aren’t going to find this stuff just sitting around.” Once again the Shadowhawks sought the support of VMAQ-1, but this time the crew was hoping to establish a solid and lasting presence not only for themselves, but also for the sake of any future Navy squadrons deploying to Al Asad. The first step was to learn how to work within the Marine Corps supply system, and VMAQ-1 was there to assist. Once VAQ-141 personnel gained a better understanding of how the supply system worked, it became much easier to locate and receive needed supplies. “We developed a good working relationship with VMAQ-1,” Curley said. “We were able to help each other out with parts and technical support if necessary.” The Shadowhawks found the answer to their communication needs when they made contact with Marine Air Group (MAG) 26. It was through MAG-26 that VAQ-141 was able to obtain UHF and VHF radios, and necessary telephone and computer hook ups. In only a few short weeks, VAQ-141 went from having an open-bay hangar with no shops and only a 12-foot by 10-foot operations space, to having seven well-lit and heated maintenance spaces with parts storage, an operations space with five office spaces, a ready room, and an established communications system. “With all that we have learned, from the combat operations and tactics our aircrew and aircraft employ from Al Asad Air Base, to the logistics involved with working, operating and living in an expeditionary combat environment, we have built a set of standard operating procedures for any Navy VAQ squadron that deploys into Al Asad after we leave near the end of TR’s deployment,” said Curley. “I couldn't be more proud of all of the Shadowhawk Sailors,” said Cmdr. Craig Clapperton, VAQ 141 executive officer. “This was a total team effort from our Sailors in the detachment and our Sailors on the carrier. Our Sailors showed determination, persistence and a great deal of ingenuity. They built all of this from scratch, and they accomplished all of this while executing more than 500 flight hours and 100 combat sorties.” Al Asad Air Base is home to 12,000 service members who are a mix from each of the U.S. military branches. The base is centrally located in Iraq, allowing for readily available air support with nearly every type of U.S. military aircraft in existence. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21297 _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license Last edited by Batman47 on Tue May 05, 2009 1:51 am; edited 4 times in total
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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 394 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 425 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Mon May 04, 2009 7:27 am    Post subject: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) · Quote As reported on 14 December 2005, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, has marked the first half of a six-month deployment reported on 14 December 2005, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and maritime security operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf. Since departing Norfolk, Va., Sept. 1 as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), TR and CVW-8 have worked in unison to conduct MSO and help to bring stability to the Persian Gulf maritime environment and to support coalition ground troops in Iraq. “Since we arrived, TR and Carrier Air Wing 8 Sailors have worked nonstop, day and night, without any ‘no-fly’ days, to meet the increased demand for support by the air wing’s aircraft,” said Capt. J.R. Haley, Theodore Roosevelt commanding officer. “They are working hard, and they are saving the lives of Marines on the ground every day.” The first combat flight operations during the deployment were not conducted from the ship but rather from a forward deployed detachment. The Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 established a detachment Sept. 17 at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq prior to the TRCSG arriving in theater. They flew their first combat sortie Sept. 24. The squadron has been operating from Al Asad throughout most of the deployment. TR began launching missions from its flight deck Oct. 6, and since then has conducted more than 4,000 sorties, with more than 28,000 pounds of ordnance expended in support of coalition forces in Iraq. “This is the ninth time Carrier Air Wing 8 and the Roosevelt have deployed together, and as tradition would have it, there is not a better platform for CVW-8 to work from than that of TR,” said Capt. William G. Sizemore II, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8.   “Our air crews have had much success during this deployment, and it wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of the TR crew that supports us every day,” Sizemore said. “We have enhanced our air support effectiveness by launching aircraft from TR and from Iraq. This wouldn’t be possible without the outstanding teamwork between TR and Carrier Air Wing 8.” Every day over Iraq, F-14 Tomcats assigned to Fighter Squadrons (VF) 213 and 31 and F/A-18s assigned to Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 15 and 87 provide reconnaissance, surveillance and close air support to ground forces in Iraq. In early November, these squadrons participated in Operation Steel Curtain, aimed at providing aerial support for U.S. Marine and Iraqi ground forces and preventing insurgents from entering Iraq through the Syrian border. Meanwhile, USS San Jacinto (CG 56), USS Donald Cook (DDG 75), and USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) have been working, with support from CVW-8 aircraft, to pressurize the maritime environment in an effort to deny terrorist organizations its use to support their operations, while keeping the waters safe for merchant traffic and fishing vessels. Boarding teams from each ship have been conducting visit, board, search and seizure operations to intercept vessels that may be involved in illegal activity, while at the same time building relations with local mariners by providing first aid, mechanical assistance and even food from time to time. These mariners often provide information regarding suspicious or illegal operations. “I’m extremely proud of every one of our Sailors, who can take pride knowing they are helping enable the people of Iraq to determine their own future,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld Jr., commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “I’m also delighted with how well we were prepared to operate in this theater, which is a testament to the efforts of thousands of military, civilian employees, and contractors in the Norfolk area. Any success we’ve achieved thus far is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of the entire team.” The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group includes the Norfolk-based aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt with CVW-8 embarked, the Norfolk-based guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto, and the Norfolk-based guided-missile destroyers USS Oscar Austin and USS Donald Cook. Carrier Air Wing 8 includes the Tomcatters of VF-31, the Blacklions of VF-213, the Valions of VFA-15 and the Golden Warriors of VFA-87 - all based out of Naval Air Station Oceana, Va. - the Scouts of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., the Shadowhawks VAQ-141 based out of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash., the Bear Aces of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124, from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va., and the Tridents of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 3 out of Naval Station Mayport, Fla. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21352 As reported on 14 December 2005, the “Black Lions” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 reached the halfway point of their current deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations in December. The Black Lions deployed Sept. 1 with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 aboard the Nimitz-class carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) as a component of CVW 8. Weather has been just one of the challenges the squadron has faced so far during the deployment. With temperatures hovering in the upper 90s most days, Black Lion maintainers have kept the Tomcats flying day-in and day-out. "This last Tomcat cruise is only possible because of the gallons of blood, sweat and tears put into these airplanes by our maintainers,” said Lt. Cmdr. Craig Snyder, squadron maintenance officer. “They routinely put up eight or nine airplanes a day despite the challenges of limited parts support for this 35-year-old war-horse. We are one team out here.” The Black Lions have flown during several periods of increased activity in Iraq, to include the Oct. 15 constitutional referendum and Operation Steel Curtain. The recent increase in insurgent activity surrounding the Dec. 15 elections is also seeing an increase in Tomcat hours in the air. The squadron has already flown more than 640 sorties - 281 of them for Operation Iraqi Freedom - and flown more than 2,200 hours, 1,730 of which were combat hours. At this rate, VF-213 is outpacing all previous air wing squadrons in terms of number of both OIF sorties and combat hours flown. Lt. Scott Koch said it is an honor to be a part of the last Tomcat deployment. “It’s awesome to hear that the ground controllers are still extremely pleased with our flexibility and broad capabilities, he said.” The focus of the OIF missions have primarily been in support of coalition troops in direct contact with insurgents, convoy escorts and patrolling routes in search of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and supporting raids. The Black Lions have dropped more than 5,000 pounds of ordnance and have engaged insurgents on several occasions with precision bombs or strafing runs. Squadron Commanding Officer Cmdr. Dan Cave believes that the contributions of every member of the squadron have been critical to their successes. “The daily sacrifice each person makes is a true testament to their patriotism. They are all American heroes,” he said. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21378 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf from 28 November to 23 December 2005. In December, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) proved quick to answer the fleet’s request to install technology on F-14 Tomcats that gives boots on the ground an eye in the sky. In early November, aviators serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom requested their Tomcats have the technology to download data to Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receivers (ROVER) - laptop computers that give troops the ability to view their surroundings from the aircraft’s point of view. “When an air crew establishes radio contact with troops on the ground, the first question they are asked is ‘are you ROVER download-capable?’ That shows how important it is to them,” said Lt. Cmdr. Lee “Griz” Grubbs, class desk for NAVAIR’s F-14 program (PMA 241), Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md. The F-14 program responded to the fleet request with an unprecedented push from requirement to real-world capability. The program had an obvious mandate to equip the aircraft early enough to make a difference on this last Tomcat deployment. Grubbs eyed another looming deadline he wanted to precede – Iraq's Dec. 15 elections to determine the government’s president and prime minister. In six weeks - a blink of an eye on the acquisition and development time scale - the program moved from paper to installing the data transfer systems on Tomcats, even allowing several days for pilots to train with the technology before election day. The systems arrived on the carrier Dec. 10. The first ROVER download-equipped flight took place the next day. “The team demonstrated NAVAIR’s capability at its best,” said Grubbs. "We probably made a significant difference in theater. We may have had a direct impact on the overall peace that existed during the Iraqi elections." The program lassoed help from several organizations to complete multiple tasks in parallel, which significantly hastened results. Randy Snyder led a team at Jacksonville conducting the engineering study. The Tomcat program at Patuxent River Naval Air Station pursued regulatory approvals such as a flight clearance and approval for an interim airframe change. The program has now equipped 22 Tomcats, with additional systems to spare. The upgrades to the Tomcat squadrons more than doubles the number of aircraft flying Operation Iraqi Freedom missions with the capability to download to ROVER. “I saw tremendous teamwork and a sense that what they were doing would make a difference for the warfighter," said F-14 Program Manager Chris Frayser. "Everyone contributed, and everything happened just right. It was not about getting a pat on the back, or about the money, it was about taking pride. It was awesome!” “This success is part of our team’s continuing contribution to the Navywide goal of delivering the right force, with the right readiness, and at the right cost,” said Rear Adm. David Venlet, program executive officer for Tactical Aircraft Programs. Venlet oversees the efforts of PMA 241. “You’ll see much more of this as the Naval Aviation Enterprise continues to streamline development and procurement of the systems we send forward to our fleet warfighters.” The Naval Aviation Enterprise is a partnership among naval leadership to optimize processes that maintain current readiness while investing in future readiness. The enterprise concept focuses naval aviation on the single fleet-driven metric of producing aircraft ready for tasking at reduced cost. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21486 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 24 to 27 December 2005. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf on 27 December 2005. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps Gen. Peter Pace, came aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (the Big Stick) (CVN 71) Dec. 29 for the Chairman’s Holiday Troop Visit. Pace brought along a trio of entertainers: comedian Reggie McFadden, American Idol star Diana DeGarmo and country music artist Michael Peterson, along with retired Army Colonel and Medal of Honor recipient Jack Jacobs. Sailors gathered in Hangar Bay 2 and Pace kicked off the show by dedicating a few words of appreciation to the crew. “It’s tough spending the holidays away from home,” Pace said. “And, you don’t always get the level of appreciation you deserve for the work you do. We are making serious breakthroughs in providing freedom in Iraq while still defending our own freedom. That is what we are honoring today.” Following singing performances by DeGarmo and Peterson, McFadden livened up the crowd even more with a top-notch comedy routine, and a humorous speech by Jacobs about his life and military experiences rounded out the show. “I have never stopped feeling like a kid inside,” said Jacobs. “And it’s really the young kids who keep old guys like us free and who bring freedom to lots of other people who have never had it before.” This was the group’s second show with future stops in Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait and Djibouti, Africa, for a total of 13 shows in less than two weeks. “I had a really, good time,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Equipment 1st Class (AW) Demetrius A. Rushin. “It offered an opportunity to relax, take a break and have some fun.” The USO performers were just as excited about the show. “I love doing this, it’s that simple,” said DeGarmo. “I have had family members in the service, one of whom is in Iraq right now. I would do this a hundred times over if the invitation was there.” After the show, Pace, Jacobs and the entertainers stayed for an autograph and photo session, had lunch, and then headed to Bahrain for another show. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21549 Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/AW) Terry Scott arrived aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Jan. 4 to talk to Sailors about U.S. progress in the Middle East and the future of the U.S. Navy in the 21st century. The CNO’s trip aboard TR was part of a larger visit to the Middle East including other surface ships in the Gulf and to troops in Kuwait, Iraq and Bahrain. After an evening meal with squadron commanding officers and executive officers and the ship’s department heads, Mullen toured the ship with TR Command Master Chief Beth Lambert and met with Sailors throughout the ship. Following his tour, the CNO re-enlisted 19 Sailors in the hangar bay, then thanked all the Sailors for their service and lauded their performance during the current deployment. “The work you are all doing right now is critical to the nation and to the world,” Mullen said. “You have adapted to a tough theater. You have been innovative, creative and responsive, and your efforts are widely known throughout the Navy. It’s efforts like yours that have helped create such positive drastic changes in Iraq.” Mullen also discussed future additions to the Navy mission, including increased efforts in detainee operations in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Iraq. Mullen put most of his emphasis on Navy readiness. “We must be ready to operate during these uncertain times,” Mullen said. “The enemy is changing and adapting so we must change and adapt. Iraq and Afghanistan are just the leading edge of a struggle that will likely last for decades.” One of the CNO’s final points was the role of every Sailor in the 21st century Navy. “Every Sailor is a leader from the seaman recruit up to four-star admiral,” Mullen said. “And I expect high caliber leadership at every level.” Sailors responded positively to the CNO’s words and were excited to hear his insight on current Navy issues. “It is very uplifting and motivating to hear the Navy’s senior leadership commend us for our work,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic Seaman Jamison Ryan of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15. “It is even more rewarding to know that people back home realize what we are doing is important.” Mullen closed his speech by reminding Sailors to avoid complacency during the last months of cruise and to stay focused to the end. After his speech Mullen opened the floor to Sailors for a question and answer session on topics such as changes in advancement policies and the responsibility and training of Sailors in the future Navy. The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the Persian Gulf in support of maritime security operations and Operation Iraqi Freedom. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21573 A father and daughter, both serving on ships in the Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group, are helping each other get through their current deployments. While Operations Specialist Seaman Lisa Kraft helps plot navigation charts aboard USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), her father Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (AW) Phil Kraft, leading petty officer of V-2 Maintenance Support, aids in the upkeep of the carrier’s catapults, arresting wires and associated support equipment aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Phil, a native of Mt. Prospect, Ill., has been in the Navy for 13 years. He came into the Navy in June 1992. He reported to TR in March 2003 during the Operation Iraqi Freedom cruise. “Here I am again [on a six month cruise], but this time I have my daughter in the same strike group,” Phil said. “She is my pride and joy, and she is already two years ahead of where I was when I started my career.” Phil makes time to keep track of his daughter’s progress in the Navy as well as serve as her mentor. “She has already completed most of her initial qualifications,” Phil said. “She is very close to starting her Enlisted Surface Warfare pin.” “When I am losing motivation, patience or just getting to the point where this cruise is getting to me, my Dad encourages me that things will get better and work themselves out,” said Lisa. Whether playing the parent role or the Navy mentor role, Phil gives simple advice to Lisa. “Work hard, ask questions and don’t talk back,” is Phil’s advice. Left at the pier while a father and daughter go off to war is wife of almost 20 years and mother, Laura, as well as a son and 16-year-old brother Austin to keep the household running smooth. “Lisa and her dad have always been very close, so it gives me some relief knowing she’s not out on her first deployment completely solo,” said Laura. The Kraft’s were excited when Lisa found out she was in the same strike group as her dad. “It’s more exciting for Lisa knowing that her dad is on one of the ships that show up on her radar screen,” said Laura. Phil and Laura encouraged Lisa to join the Navy since she excelled both physically and academically in NJROTC. “We felt this was a career that would challenge Lisa as well as allow her to spread her wings,” said Laura. “The Navy allows her to become independent and experience other cultures and other countries.” “I can’t tell you how proud I am of her,” said Phil. “Whether she does 20 years or only completes the four-year enlistment, she will put forth her best effort and the Navy will be a better place.” The family keeps in touch through email. Occasionally, Laura and Austin receive phone calls when Phil or Lisa pull in to port. “I am very proud of both, my husband and daughter,” said Laura. “I know in my heart they will be home soon, safe and sound.” http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21559 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD) personnel performed Sunday Catholic mass for USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) Sailors, Jan. 29. Besides offering religious services to its own crew, Roosevelt’s CRMD also extends these services to other ships within the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG). Lt. Cmdr. Donald Moss, a Catholic priest, and Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Michael Behrns arrived from the carrier and conducted services for the guided missile destroyer, which doesn’t have a full-time Catholic priest assigned to it. Moss and Behrns rode in an SH-60 Seahawk helicopter flown by the “Tridents” of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8’s Helicopter Squadron (HS) 3. The squadron is currently deployed with the strike group and is assigned to Roosevelt. “We usually make these trips once a week,” Moss said. “It really depends on [HS-3’s] schedule. We call it the ‘Holy Helo.’ Actually, that’s what it’s called in other strike groups too.” Moss said the opportunity to reach other Sailors within the TRCSG is gratifying and he enjoys doing it whenever he can. “If it weren’t for the ‘Holy Helo,’” said Moss, “We wouldn’t be as versatile with regard to our ability to deploy from one ship to another on any given day.” Donald Cook's crew expressed its appreciation for Roosevelt’s CRMD tandem, shaking hands and thanking them following mass. “I love it when Chaplain Moss comes out to deliver mass,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Mary Diaz, a member of Donald Cook’s Medical Department. “I learn something new every time he makes the trip. He’s a very knowledgeable person and he brings a breath of fresh air with each visit.” Behrns says he enjoys the opportunity to offer religious services to crewmembers of the TRCSG. “I just converted to the [religious program specialist] rating and experiences like this one make the move from undesignated airman all the more fulfilling,” he said. “It’s been exciting, a real good experience.” Donald Cook and the TRCSG are currently conducting operations in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22251 During their current deployment with USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, the “Scouts” of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 have taken the capabilities of the S-3B Viking to a new level. Since late October, in addition to performing their normal missions of conducting in-flight refueling for CVW-8 and surveillance operations for Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO), the Scouts have also been flying intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in support of British-led coalition ground forces of Multinational Division - Southeast (MND-SE), which are conducting operations in the southern part of Iraq. Helicopters flying from Theodore Roosevelt have been conducting similar missions in MND-SE, as well. MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. “Initially HS-3 (Helicopter Squadron 3) was [the first to provide] support in the area, and the British forces were looking for more support from the air wing,” said VS-24 Operations Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Michael Mansisidor. “The long range and endurance of the Viking makes the platform perfect for this mission. We can still do our tanking and other missions here, while being able to support MND-SE with four assets.” Mansisidor said that along with the new mission came new challenges for VS-24. For the aircrews, the challenge was to learn the geography of Iraq. “We had to prepare all the air crews for going over the beach and how to talk to the air controllers on the ground,” Mansisidor said. “They would tell us to go and look at certain areas, and initially it wasn’t easy to find these places. It was a huge learning curve because we had never done this before.” For VS-24’s maintainers, the challenge involves increased monitoring of the Vikings’ surveillance equipment to keep it fine-tuned to produce sharper imagery needed by intelligences forces on the ground. “We are using our equipment in different ways now and the crew had to step up to the plate for this,” said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW/SW) Jason Kelly, VS-24 AT/AE branch chief. “It’s different than identifying ships because you can pretty much tell what they are by their antennas, or the location of their masts,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (AW) Alfonso Moroni. Moroni said keeping the equipment up to speed requires frequent inquiries with the air crews about the performance of the equipment, and also there is more of a need to keep Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance personnel up to date on maintenance requirements. VS-24 has successfully conducted nearly 150 sorties in support of MND-SE since late October, and will continue to provide support for the duration of the deployment. The squadron’s ability to keep with its normal missions and provide support for MND-SE, allows CVW-8 to maintain maximum sorties in other regions of Iraq with its F-14 Tomcats and F/A-18 Hornets. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22112 Secretary of the Navy Donald Winter arrived aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Jan. 30 to meet and talk with Sailors during his first overseas trip since assuming office. Winter began his visit by observing flight operations from the flag bridge. He commented on how amazed he was by the level of professionalism and teamwork the flight deck crew displayed. “It’s just incredible,” said Winter. “You are watching planes being launched and planes being recovered and you get to just watch everybody doing their thing. It’s like the greatest orchestrated dance going on, and it’s just beautiful.” Following flight operations, Winter joined Theodore Roosevelt's Sailors of the Year in the “Big Stick’s” award-winning enlisted dining facility for a steak lunch. This gave Sailors the opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues and get direct feedback from the Navy’s civilian leader. “It was a real privilege and honor to spend time with someone of his stature,” said Personnel Specialist Seaman (SW) Jacob Henderson, Theodore Roosevelt Blue Jacket of the Year, 2005. “He had a lot of good things to say about the military personnel serving out here. He said we are the best group of people America has.” Once lunch was over, the Secretary visited Sailors as they worked on aircraft in the hangar bay. He thanked them for their service, and talked with them about their jobs and the significance of their mission in the Persian Gulf. “It has been an honor and a privilege to be here,” said Winter. “We have Sailors over here that are doing really good things.” Winter said he is pleased with the hard work and dedication of all the Sailors who are in the region, and he is especially proud of all the support Theodore Roosevelt Sailors have provided since they arrived in theatre to support Operation Iraqi Freedom and maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help set the conditions for stability and security throughout the region by denying terrorists the use of international waters to transport people, money and weapons to support their efforts. Prior to visiting Theodore Roosevelt, Winter made a trip to Fallujah, Iraq, where he spoke with military personnel. He also paid a visit to Sailors conducting security operations on Iraqi oil platforms, as well as Sailors aboard USS Austin (LPD 4). http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22155 Air Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW) Steven Johns, leading petty officer for TR’s carrier air traffic control center (CATCC) was named Commander, Naval Air Force U. S. Atlantic Fleet (AIRLANT) Sea Side Air Traffic Controller of the Year (ACTOY) for 2005, Jan. 31. “The pinnacle of air traffic control is controlling at sea,” said Senior Chief Air Traffic Controller (AW/SW) Joseph Clark, CATCC leading chief petty officer. “This award represents the best in the seagoing air traffic controllers, and Johns is the best.” Clark and a few others in Johns’ chain of command gathered information, put together an award package and sent it in for nomination and consideration for selection. The selection process was tight, with 15 Sailors nominated from various ships throughout the Atlantic Fleet. “My being in a position to mentor junior troops is what put me over the top,” said Johns, a native of Reno, Nev. “I have helped many of my junior Sailors get involved in the command. I have also helped my junior Sailors obtain their warfare pins and learn every aspect of the AC rating.” During his time onboard, Johns has developed a training plan that resulted in a 97 percent training average and more than 800 training hours leading to a 52 percent advancement rate. On the last AIRLANT quality assurance inspection, Johns’ team of Sailors achieved 128 qualifications with zero discrepancies. Nineteen of his Sailors earned warfare designations and two of them were selected as departmental Sailors of the Quarter. “He’s worked real hard helping to get everyone on the CATCC team qualified,” said Chief Air Traffic Controller (AW/SW) Adrian Harvill. “He deserves this recognition, and it makes us in his chain of command feel good to know he received the recognition he deserves.” With a young team of 38 Sailors in CATCC, Johns trains each one on using and reading the radar screens while they listen on headsets to learn the proper terminology and phraseology used in launch and recovery efforts. “When the pilots come back from a mission, we begin tracking them for recovery from a range of 50 miles,” said Johns. “At the same time, we are tracking jets launching and heading out to begin a mission.” Johns has supervised 3,690 sorties and 10,717 flight hours in preparation for and during Roosevelt’s current deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations. “When Johns checked onboard, he hit the ground running and hasn’t missed a beat,” said Clark. “He has been a blessing to the division and a huge asset. We would not be where we are in the deployment without him. He is a big part of the team.” Johns has been in the Navy for 16 years. During that time he has completed air traffic control “A” school, CATCC operations “C” school and advanced radar air traffic control “C” school. He has earned several personal awards for his performance as an air traffic controller throughout his career. Johns currently resides in Virginia Beach, Va., with his wife and two children. Johns said that although he is working toward making chief petty officer, his immediate goal is the continual growth of his Sailors and making them the most effective CATCC team on the East Coast. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22266 During the span of Jan. 31 through Feb. 1, a total of eight USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) Sailors re-enlisted while on deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations in the North Persian Gulf. "This is a great thrill for me,” said Donald Cook Commanding Officer, Cmdr. John Esposito. “I keep a list of all the Sailors I’ve re-enlisted throughout my career. These are very special occasions. It’s about honor, courage and commitment to one’s country.” “This is a great opportunity, and I’ve had a great time on board the Cook,” said Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class (SW) Aaron Bolton, who re-enlisted for four years. “I did my sea duty, and now I’m going to take my shore duty.” As the re-enlisting officer, Esposito first formally discharged the Sailors before proceeding with the re-enlistment, which is Navy tradition. “The great thing about doing this at sea is the fact that the re-enlisting Sailors can’t jump over the side and make a run for it,” Esposito joked with those in attendance. The fact that these Sailors chose to re-enlist on the back-side of a six-month deployment speaks volumes about the leadership on board Donald Cook and its Sailors’ experiences at sea. “Staying Navy is the best thing for me and my family,” said Gas Turbine System Technician (Electrical) 3rd Class (SW) Arthur White, who re-enlisted for two years. “There comes a point in time where you have to consider all your options and make the best decision.” The guided missile destroyer’s crew works daily in support of coalition ground forces while preserving the free and secure use of international waters by legitimate mariners, keeping alive the tradition and patriotism of their ship’s namesake, Marine Corps Col. Donald Cook, a Vietnam prisoner of war who died in captivity and epitomized the ship’s motto, “Faith Without Fear.” In addition to Esposito, Donald Cook’s Executive Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Dennis Velez, Command Master Chief (SW/SS/AW) Rodney M. Franklin, and the re-enlisting Sailors’ chains of command, were all in attendance, showing support for their Sailors during what’s considered a monumental time in their careers. “I’m glad to see they’re staying Navy,” Franklin said. “It’s good for all of them. These are all really good, quality Sailors, and I’m delighted to see they’re committed to serving their country. We know the future of the Navy is in good hands when Sailors such as these decide to make the Navy a career.” Donald Cook and the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the North Persian Gulf is support of maritime security operations (MSO). MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22252 A chapter in naval aviation history drew to a close Feb. 8 aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) with the last recovery of an F-14 Tomcat from a combat mission. Piloted by Capt. William G. Sizemore II, commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Fighter Squadron (VF) 213’s aircraft 204 was trapped at 12:35 a.m. and marked one of the final stages of the Navy’s transition from the F-14 to F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. “It’s the end of an era and it just kind of worked out that I was the last trap,” said Sizemore. “This is one of the best airplanes ever built, and it’s sad to see it go away. It’s just a beautiful airplane. It’s powerful, it has presence, and it just looks like the ultimate fighter.” Lt. Bill Frank, a VF-31 pilot, also took part in the last mission, and is credited with being the last pilot to ever drop a bomb from an F-14 Tomcat. “We were called on to drop, and that’s what we did,” said Frank. “It’s special and it’s something I can say I did, but what’s more important is the work of the Sailors who made it possible. They have worked so hard during this cruise to make every Tomcat operational.” The decision to incorporate the Super Hornet and decommission the F-14 is mainly due to high amount of maintenance required to keep the Tomcats operational. On average, an F-14 requires nearly 50 maintenance hours for every flight hour, while the Super Hornet requires five to 10 maintenance hours for every flight hour. “I don’t think there is anything better than a Tomcat, but it’s probably a good time for it to go away,” said Senior Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AW) Gene Casterlin, VF-31. “The Navy is getting smaller and more efficient, and it will only get harder to maintain the Tomcat. But no matter what, the Tomcat is the sexiest airplane in the sky.” The F-14 entered operational service with Navy fighter squadrons VF-1 Wolfpack and VF-2 Bounty Hunters aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in September 1974. The Tomcat’s purpose was to serve as a fighter interceptor, and it eventually replaced the F-4 Phantom II Fighter, which was phased out in 1986. During their final deployment with TR, VF-31 and 213 collectively completed 1,163 combat sorties totaling 6,876 flight hours, and dropped 9,500 pounds of ordnance during reconnaissance, surveillance, and close air support missions in support of OIF. “As we near the end of the Tomcat’s last deployment, we are proud of our legacy and take solace in the fact that the Tomcat is going out at the top of its game, but also regret saying farewell to an old, revered and trusted friend," said Cmdr. Richard LaBranche, VF-31 commanding officer. In keeping with its history of being adaptable to new challenges, the Tomcat soared to a new level during its last deployment when it became the first Navy aircraft to make use of the Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receivers (ROVER) system in December of last year. The system allows for ground forces to view video via laptop computers which gives them the ability to view their surroundings from the aircrafts’ point of view in real time, and ultimately provides better reconnaissance and target identification, which are essential to combat air support missions in Iraq. Previously, ROVER had been used by the Air Force, and with a few modifications from personnel of Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., and members from Naval Air Depot Jacksonville, Fla., it became one of the last great modifications to the Tomcat. "From its inception, the Tomcat has been the icon of Naval Aviation with its striking appearance, speed, formidable lethality and versatility,” said LaBranche. “It is more capable today than at any other time during its existence because of the innovation, dedication, and tenacity of every maintainer and pilot who has ever been associated with it.” VF-213 pilots who are making the transition to the Super Hornet will begin F/A-18F (double seat) training in April, and the squadron will be operational, or “safe for flight,” in September. VF-31 pilots who are making the transition will begin F/A-18E (single seat) training in October, and the squadron will be safe for flight in April 2007. This will make VF-31 the last official Tomcat squadron in the Navy. Maintainers in both squadrons will be begin training to perform their specific maintenance job as it pertains to the Super Hornet, shortly following this deployment. Their training will last anywhere from six weeks up to seven months, depending on the type of maintenance skills involved. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22325 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Persian Gulf from 26 December 2005 to 10 February 2006. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) made her 12th Gulf of Aden voyage en route to her 14th Suez Canal transit on 11 February 2006. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Red Sea on 12 February 2006. As reported on 13 February 2006, the Supply Department’s S-3 Division, which is made up of 60 Sailors who run USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) ship’s stores, barbershops, vending machines and laundry services, has earned the 2005 Commander, Navy Exchange Command (NEXCOM) Ship’s Store Retail and Services Excellence Award. “This is the biggest recognition in the fleet for a ship’s serviceman,” said Master Chief Ship’s Serviceman (SW/AW) Michelle Mikulski, Supply department leading chief petty officer. The Second Fleet supply officer will make a special visit to TR and present the award following the ship’s return to Norfolk. The annual competition is based on several factors, including customer service, customer satisfaction surveys, meeting retail operational goals, status of equipment, meeting profit goals and maintaining sound financial records. “Our customers really helped out by completing the surveys,” said Ship’s Serviceman 2nd Class (SW/AW) Cynthia Beale. “The crew’s voice was heard and it played an important role in our winning this award.” At the end of each calendar year, all ships are evaluated to see whether or not they qualify for the award. The qualifying ships from each class are then pitted against one another and the best overall average score is selected as “Best in Class.” This year, TR competed against USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the aircraft carrier or CVN class. This year’s award marks TR’s third in a span of five years, having previously received the honor in 2001 and 2003. Supply Department’s senior enlisted were quick to point out S-3 could not have maintained such quality services and efficient operations throughout the calendar year on its own, and although the division was recognized individually, it was a ship-wide effort that contributed to S-3’s success. “In order for us to win, we had to rely on other departments, such as Engineering, for example, to keep our laundry equipment up and running,” Mikulski said. “A-Gang personnel do a great job keeping our equipment squared away,” said Chief Ship’s Serviceman (SW/AW) Todd Washington, S-3’s leading chief petty officer. “During the inspection, all our equipment was 100 percent. Everything worked, and for a ship of this size, that’s unheard of.” For the period of January to December 2005, S-3’s sales totaled more than $1.5 million, and $390,000 in profits were transferred to the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department to help pay for tours and other crew functions. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22267 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Red Sea from 12 to 14 February 2006. As reported on 15 February 2006, According to recent statistics from Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) is one of the Navy’s most efficient paid afloat commands in regards to pay transaction timeliness. Pay transactions refer to the process of making changes to such entitlements as Basic Allowance for Housing or Dependent Pay, and then processing the adjustments to DFAS to reflect in the member’s pay within 30 days. During the past three months, TR’s customer service team of Administrative Department’s X-2 Division has achieved an average of 95 percent or better. “Everybody wants their pay and they want it to be right,” said Personnel Specialist 1st Class (SW) Rico Habersham, X-2 customer service team leader. “We may not control when someone gets paid, but we work to make sure everyone is being paid correctly.” DFAS computes transaction timeliness by calculating the number of days between the effective date of a particular entitlement and when the entitlement is posted to the member’s pay account. Habersham said there are cut-off dates for making entitlement changes for each pay period, and TR Sailors can help themselves and the pay transaction process by meeting required deadlines. “If someone wants to have an entitlement change in their pay to reflect on the 15th, the change has to be made and processed from here by the 6th or 7th of the month,” said Habersham. “For a change to take effect on the 1st, it has to be done by the 22nd or 23rd.” The January Navywide average for pay transaction timeliness was 89 percent, placing TR 6 percent above the rest of the Navy’s customer service teams. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22314 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) (TR) and associated strike group units completed their support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) when the carrier and USS San Jacinto (CG 56) transited the Suez Canal Feb. 15 as they continue their return trip home, making Theodore Roosevelt 14th Suez Canal transit, transiting the northern passage, entering the Mediterranean Sea. However, detachments from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 and Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87, and VFA-15, remain in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and will rejoin the carrier and its associated air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, later this month. The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group is scheduled to relieve Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), which has been operating in theater since early October. “I’m very pleased with the performance of the entire strike group team,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “Our Sailors have been able to achieve impressive effects in virtually every corner of the 5th Fleet maritime environment, in the skies over Iraq supporting U.S. and coalition troops, and through their exceptional conduct while on liberty ashore.” While in theater, Theodore Roosevelt and CVW-8 successfully launched both carrier and land-based flight operations in support of OIF and MSO. “Ingenuity and determination can go a long way,” said Capt. William G. Sizemore II, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8. “We increased our effectiveness by setting up both permanent and temporary detachments, and we managed to find ways to expand our support without taking away from our mission capabilities.” VAQ-141 split the operations of its EA-6B Prowlers between TR and its detachment at an air base inside Iraq, allowing for readily available in-country air support. Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 successfully divided the use of its S-3B Vikings to support both CVW-8 and British ground forces of Multi-National Division-Southeast (MND-SE) in southeast Iraq. Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 3 provided support for troops operating in MND-SE, as well. F-14 Tomcats assigned to Fighter Squadrons (VF) 213 and 31, as well as F/A-18s assigned to VFA-15 and 87, were also key factors to the mission’s success with their reconnaissance, surveillance, and close air support missions. During TR’s Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, port visit during the Thanksgiving holiday week, VFA-15 and 87 personnel continued to provide air support from an air base in Iraq. “The team effort of TR and CVW-8 during the past four months has been vital not only to our success, but also to the success of the ground forces in Iraq,” said Capt. J.R. Haley, Theodore Roosevelt commanding officer. “Our efforts have saved the lives of the Marines and Soldiers on the ground. We made a difference to them – and to the people they are fighting for.” Theodore Roosevelt and CVW-8 launched more than 5,500 sorties, totaling more than 21,000 flight hours in support of OIF and MSO while in theater. San Jacinto, USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) and USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) experienced much success in their efforts to deny terrorist organizations use of the maritime environment to support their operations while keeping waters safe for merchant traffic and fishing vessels. Boarding teams from each ship conducted Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations and monitored vessels to ensure the legitimate use of international waters in the Gulf, while at the same time building relations with local mariners by providing first aid, mechanical assistance and even food from time to time. All three ships also conducted operations in the Persian Gulf where they provided protection in Iraqi territorial waters and for their two major oil terminals – Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya. Both terminals combined generate 85 percent of Iraq’s gross national product. The efforts of Oscar Austin, Donald Cook and San Jacinto have been effective and demonstrate TRCSG’s team effort in the Arabian Gulf region, both on land and at sea. “The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group played a key role in one of the monumental moments in our country’s history,” said Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. 5th Fleet. “Their responsibility, reach, and influence will have lasting effects on future generations. “There is only one thing tougher than being out here, and that is not being here, and saying no to the chance to make a contribution to this important, critical mission," he added. "The Sailors of Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group said yes to that chance, made a difference, and should be proud of what they’ve accomplished.” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22319 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Marmaris, Turkey from 16 to 19 February 2006. Operations on the 20th were not reported, while USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) was underway in the Aegean Sea on 21 February 2006. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Souda Bay, Crete, Greece on 22 February 2006. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Corfu, Greece from 23 to 26 February 2006. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 27 February to 2 March 2006. As reported on 2 March 2006, USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) CS-1 division of TR Combat Systems Department has set a higher precedence for all other Message Center (MAINCOMM) divisions throughout the fleet. During TR’s current deployment, CS-1 received a rating of 98 percent during a Comprehensive Communications Assessment for Communication Readiness certification (CRC). The assessment served to evaluate the ship’s overall communications ability to process various types of outgoing and incoming record communications under simulated wartime conditions. The team was also evaluated on its ability to execute a comprehensive Operational Planning (OPLAN) as a total systems approach of external communications. “Their performance during CRC showed how well the Sailors of CS-1 are able to complete their mission of providing communications for TR,” said Chief Information Systems Technician (SW/AW) Nancy Smogoleski, CS-1 Division leading chief petty officer. “From being able to help maintain mission readiness to providing the ability for Sailors to talk with loved ones back home, their skills have been beneficial to all of TR’s personnel throughout the cruise.” Prior to deployment, CS-1 also achieved success during TR’s Component Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Joint Taskforce exercise (JTFX) by receiving a proficiency rating of 97 percent. “From COMPTUX and throughout this deployment, the division has been phenomenal,” said Ens. George Harris, CS-1 division officer. “They have been kind of like a baseball team. COMTUEX and JTFX was our spring training, and during this deployment we made it to the World Series and were victorious.” Known as the “Eyes, Ears, and voice of TR,” the 32 personnel who make up CS-1 provide reliable and secure communications for TR’s embarked staffs, air wing and ship’s company. The division is directly involved in the strategic, tactical, and operational areas of warfare planning, and logistics for TR and the rest of TR Carrier Strike Group. This encompasses more than 350 classified and unclassified strategic and tactical voice and data circuits, message traffic, NIPRNET/SIPRNET connectivity, and telephone systems. Additionally, CS-1 enhances the morale of TR’s Sailors through Internet, e-mail, and Sailor-phone service access. During TR’s current deployment, CS-1 has used its teleconferencing capabilities to broadcast 39 live video teleconference courses from Old Dominion University, and 62 live family video teleconferences, allowing TR Sailors to see and speak with their families face-to-face while underway. The technology has also been used to conduct 250 tele-conference meetings for TR’s ship’s company and embarked staff. “We are your Verizon, AT&T, and AOL all rolled into one,” said Harris. “Without us, there wouldn’t be any communication.” http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22532 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) transited the Strait of Gibraltar and entered the Atlantic on 3 March 2006. Six squadrons from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 will return to Naval Station Norfolk and Naval Air Station Oceana March 9 and 10 following their six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). The remainder of CVW-8’s squadrons will return to their homebases of Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Fla., and NAS Whidbey Island, Fla. The “Tomcatters” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 and the “Black Lions” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 will close a chapter in the history of naval aviation by completing the final combat deployment in the F-14D Tomcat aircraft. VF-213 will almost immediately begin to transition to the F/A-18F “Super Hornet,” while VF-31 will remain operational until September 2006 when they will fly the last Tomcat in the Navy’s inventory from NAS Oceana. VF-31 will continue to operate the F-14D with CVW-8 throughout the spring and summer aboard Theodore Roosevelt during the ship’s readiness and sustainment period. They will begin their transition to the F/A-18E “Super Hornet” in October. Also returning will be the “Valions” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15 and the “War Party” from VFA-87, both flying the F/A-18C Hornet, and the “Bear Aces” from Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124 with their E-2C Hawkeyes, and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40, Detachment 1, the “Rawhides” flying C-2A Greyhounds. During CVW-8’s deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terrorism, their aircraft flew exactly 10,000 sorties and logged nearly 30,750 mishap-free flight hours. Of these, 3,300 flight hours were flown over Iraq delivering 52 bombs and air-to-ground missiles in support of coalition troops on the ground. The E-2C Hawkeyes provided airborne command and control while the C-2A Greyhounds provided logistics support by delivering mail, parts and personnel from the ship. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22599 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) underway in the Atlantic from 3 to 10 March 2005. Thousands of friends and family members gathered at Naval Station Norfolk for the return of USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), March 11, following a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism. The early morning arrival of Theodore Roosevelt didn’t deter the crowd. Family members waited in the early Saturday morning chill, anticipating the return of their loved ones. “It’s like Christmas all over again,” said Diane Drach, mother of Machinist's Mate Fireman Ashley Drach, who is stationed aboard Theodore Roosevelt. “We are so proud of her, especially being in the Navy during a time of war.” While deployed, Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 launched 5,412 sorties totaling nearly 19,362 flight hours in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). CVW-8 squadrons – Fighter Squadrons (VF) 213 and 31; Strike Fighter (VFA) 15 and 87; Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124; Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 Det. 1, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 3; Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 and Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 all returned earlier in the week to their homeports. CVW-8 maintained around-the-clock air operations from Theodore Roosevelt and Iraqi air bases. These missions set the condition for security and stability in the region by detecting, deterring and disputing international terrorist organizations. “We protected Soldiers and Marines on the ground, we protected Iraqi oil infrastructure, and we brought stability and security to the Arabian Gulf and the rest of the Central Command region,” said Rear Adm. James Winnefeld Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2. Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TR CSG) consists of the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56), guided-missiles destroyers USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) and USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760), fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 96) and USNS Mount Baker (T-AE 34). Spanish frigate SPS Alvaro de Bazan (F101) also conducted a cooperative deployment as an intergraded part of TR CSG. The ship returned to Ferrol, Spain, in December. “During our time out there, we preformed infrastructure exercises, anti-piracy and security operations, and assisted foreign navies,” said Cmdr. John Esposito, Donald Cook commanding officer. “The crew was the best ever and did a great job in all facets of operations.” With the excitement of returning home, there are some heavy hearts within VF-213 and 31. This marked the final combat deployment of the F-14 Tomcat. Both squadrons are transitioning to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets later this year. VF-31 will continue to operate the F-14D with CVW-8 throughout the spring and summer aboard Theodore Roosevelt during the ship’s readiness and sustainment period. Then, they will begin their transition to the Super Hornet in October. This is Theodore Roosevelt’s ninth deployment since commissioning in 1986, and the ship’s third in support of the global war on terrorism. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22660 _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 394 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 425 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Mon May 04, 2009 7:34 am    Post subject: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) · Quote USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) with CVW-8 embarked arrived Norfolk, Virginia  11 March 2006, with Captain J.R. Haley in command, Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, TRCSG and 7,500 Sailors. Her ninth Mediterranean Sea deployment (15h & 16th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet and her 6th Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment in support of  her 2nd Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Steel Curtain (OSC) and 1st Maritime Security Operations (MSO) on the US Navy’s 81st Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet. Underway in the Atlantic from 1 to 12 September 2005, visited Palma de Mallorca, Spain from 13 to 17 September 2005. The ship’s crew hosted more than 300 distinguished visitors and media members who were able to tour the ship. Evening receptions were held for each country’s dignitaries and military officials. Underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 17 to 18 September 2005, making a two-day transit to Naples, Italy for a port visit from 19 to 23 September 2005, after visiting Palma de Mallorca, Spain (Sept. 13-17). Underway in the Mediterranean Sea on 23 September 2005. Personnel from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, along with two of its EA-6B Prowlers, departed Theodore Roosevelt Sept. 24 while in the Mediterranean Sea, to enhance the mission capability of Marine Electronic Attack Squadron (VMAQ) 1, based out of Al Asad, Iraq, establishing a detachment Sept. 17 at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq prior to the TRCSG arriving in theater. The first combat flight operations during the deployment were not conducted from the ship but rather from a forward deployed detachment. VAQ-141 led the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group’s (TRCSG) first combat flights in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Sept. 24. “The previous carrier completed its mission here, so we went ahead of the TR battle group so there wouldn’t be any loss of aerial support for the Marine Corps ground forces,” said Cmdr. Paul Mckeon, commanding officer, VAQ-141. Theodore Roosevelt made her 13th Suez Canal transit, for way to the Red Sea en route to the Arabian Gulf on 27 September 2005. Underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 23 to 27 September 2005, TR made her Red Sea voyage en route to the Arabian Gulf from 28 to 29 September 2005, underway in the Gulf of Aden, her 11thGulf of Aden voyage from 30 September to 2 October 2005, relieving Nimitz CSG, in the Persian Gulf, underway in the Arabian Sea from 3 to 4 October 2005, arriving in the Persian Gulf on 5 October 2005. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 launched its first combat operations from Theodore Roosevelt in more than two and a half years Oct. 6, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). More than half of the air wing’s personnel participated in flight operations involving missions over the land and sea.The Bear Aces of Carrier Airbone Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124, the Scouts of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24, and the Tridents of Helicopter Squadron (HS) 3, flew missions in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) to help promote stability in the maritime environment. Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 and VF-31, along with the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87 and VFA-15, flew over the beach to support coalition ground forces in Iraq. The Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 were operating out of Al Asad, Iraq, from Sept. 24 to Oct. 6, flying 37 combat sorties. Sixty-three personnel from the squadron were flown from TR in support of this mission. Although each mission is different, all aircraft worked toward the same goal in setting conditions for security throughout the region. Theodore Roosevelt selected Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class (AW/SW) Kevin Harpham as its Sailor of the Quarter (SOQ) Oct. 7 and selected Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW/AW) Ingrid Knight as its Senior Sailor of the Quarter (SSOQ) Oct. 7. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/AW) Terry Scott and Sgt. Major of the Marine Corps John Estrada visited Sailors aboard Theodore Roosevelt Oct. 13 to let crew members know their work is appreciated, as for more than a month, Sailors have been launching aircraft daily off TR’s flight deck to support coalition ground forces in Iraq. Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8’s Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 “Black Lions” welcomed Cmdr. Dan Cave as their new commanding officer Oct. 16 in an airborne change of command ceremony while flying F-14D Tomcats. Cave relieved Cmdr. Brian Kocher as they performed a fly-by past TR. The two Tomcats flew side-by-side as they approached the ship. Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 stationed aboard Theodore Roosevelt continued to provide support to coalition troops on the ground in Iraq Oct. 19. F-14 Tomcats from Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 conducted precision strikes on a known Improvised Explosive Device (IED) production facility northeast of Baghdad. The fighter jets joined a handful of other Roosevelt-based aircraft this week that have conducted strikes in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom while protecting coalition ground troops. IEDs have been one of the biggest threats to coalition ground forces since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The airstrikes underscore the success that Roosevelt-based aircraft have had working with coalition troops on the ground in the last several weeks. Other CVW-8 aircraft continue to fly missions such as convoy escorting, patrolling oil pipelines and protecting new construction. Since their arrival in the Persian Gulf, Roosevelt-based aircraft have provided close air support to coalition troops in the vicinities of Al Hillah, Al Mansuriyah, Baquba, Basrah, Kirkuk, Madain, Mosul and Tall Afar. The arresting gear personnel “Gear Dogs” of Theodore Roosevelt’s V-2 division helped TR achieve a new milestone with the recovery of its 160,000 aircraft over the ship’s 19-year history. The recovery was completed at 7:23 p.m. Oct. 25, when Lt. Jay Haddock, flying an S-3B Viking, successfully tail hooked arresting gear wire number 4. According to Arresting Gear Branch Officer, Lt. John Oliver, the night’s trap was an amazing accomplishment, but not nearly as impressive as the personnel who made it possible. “While 160,000 recoveries is quite an accomplishment for a carrier, the 160,000th trap is no different than number 160,001,” said Oliver. “What is significant is that for 160,000 arrestments, the gear has been maintained, and will continue to be maintained by the ‘Gear Dogs’ in a safe and operable condition to bring our aviators back onboard TR." Theodore Roosevelt named Airman (AW) Lori Swift of V-2 division's Maintenance Control as Blue Jacket of the Quarter (BJOQ) for October 2005. Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 Theodore Roosevelt continued support of Operation Steel Curtain (OSC) throughout the second week of November, conducting five consecutive days of strikes against terrorist targets in support of coalition troops in Iraq. The missions flown during OSC demonstrate the quickness and flexibility of CVW 8 and the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) to provide continuous support on both land and sea. Operation Steel Curtain is an offensive aimed at preventing cells of Al Qaeda from entering Iraq through the Syrian border. Coalition ground forces consisting of 1,000 Iraqi Army Soldiers and 2,500 U.S. Marines began the offensive Nov. 4 near the town of Husaybah near the Iraq/Syria border. Husaybah has become a haven for cells of Al Qaeda entering the country through the Syrian border, according to military officials, and they are describing this as the largest military assault since American-led forces stormed Falluja last year. Aircraft from CVW 8 began providing air support for OSC Nov. 6 by flying reconnaissance and strike missions as required to support troops on the ground during the offensive. As troops were taking fire and buildings in Husaybah were identified as insurgent hotbeds, positions were called in to circling aircraft, which responded to the calls. Underway in the Persian Gulf from 5 October to 23 November 2005 in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Iraqi Freedom, setting the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. The Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD) baptized 16 Sailors aboard Theodore Roosevelt Nov. 26. In late November, approximately 50 aircrew and maintenance personnel from the Valions of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15 and the Golden Warriors of VFA-87 detached to Al Asad, Iraq, with five F/A-18C Hornet aircraft. The detachment was designed to sustain naval tactical air presence in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom while Theodore Roosevelt executed a scheduled port call in the Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 24 to 27 November 2005. Navy personnel deployed to Al Asad christened the makeshift detachment the “Cactus Air Force.” The term “Cactus Air Force” originated during World War II to describe the makeshift collection of Navy, Marine and Air Force combat aircraft assembled during the defense of Guadalcanal (“Cactus” was the Allied codeword for the island). Similar to the original Cactus Air Force, the planes operating out of Al Asad included multiple types of aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force. Although operating in a foreign environment totally different from an aircraft carrier, the Sailors of VFA-15 and VFA-87 provided combat-ready aircraft under the most challenging of circumstances. “I could not have asked for a better group of maintainers,” said Ensign John E. Harris, the Detachment Maintenance Officer. He also noted the contributions VAQ-141, VMFA-332, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 26, Marine Air Logistics Squadron (MALS) 26, and particularly Lt. Ramiro Flores, the detachment coordinator back on board Theodore Roosevelt. “The detachment was a tremendous success,” said Capt. William G. Sizemore, commander, Carrier Air Wing 8. “The Navy brought 5 F/A-18Cs and 37 maintenance personnel to Al Asad and flew 8 sorties a day during a 12-hour flight window. The team effort between the Sailors maintaining the Hornets and the Marines of VMFA-332 was the top contributing factor to our success here in Iraq.” Situated west of Baghdad in the desert just south of the Euphrates, Al Asad was constructed next to a palm grove called “Abraham’s Oasis.” (Local legend maintains that the biblical Abraham dipped his feet in the spring while passing through.) The facility was once Saddam Hussein’s premier MiG-25 Foxbat airbase. Underway in the Persian Gulf on 28 November 2005, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) joined the families of Theodore Roosevelt for their annual holiday party Dec. 4 at the Breezy Point Officer's Club. As reported 7 December 2005, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), along with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 conducted 2,070 sorties, 624 in support of OIF and 557 in support of Maritime Security Operations from Sept. 24 through Nov. 1 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO) for more than two months, and continues to make a positive impact on the Gulf region. USS San Jacinto (CG 56) has been a key factor for success during TRCSG deployment with its use of VBSS Teams.mn VBSS operations pressurize the maritime environment, playing a significant role in shaping the environment and setting the conditions for other forces to engage international terrorist organizations (ITO). These operations intercept vessels that may support international terrorist organizations by transferring personnel or such items as weapons and drugs. VBSS operations are intended to detect, deter, and deny ITOs the use of the maritime environment. The Sailors of the San Jacinto VBSS teams have inspected more than 50 local fishing dhows in order to enhance maritime security and provide goodwill packages to fishermen. USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) have been busy in the northern Persian Gulf as a part of the TRCSG by providing protection in Iraqi territorial waters and their two major oil terminals, Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya (KAAOT). As F-14 Tomcat aircraft 207 of the "Blacklions" of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 launched the morning of Dec. 11, history was made. For the first time, a forward ground controller, with the call sign of "Antidote," located on the ground near Baghdad, was invited "into" the cockpit of the aircraft via the Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver (ROVER) system. "The new system allows forward ground controllers to see what the aircraft is seeing in real time," said Lt. j.g. Will Parish, radar interceptor officer. "There is no time delay in the system." ROVER allowed Antidote to see real-time images acquired by the aircraft’s sensors by transmitting the images to his laptop. Usage of ROVER greatly improved Antidote’s reconnaissance and target identification, which are essential to the combat air support mission in Iraq. The development team arrived aboard Theodore Roosevelt Dec. 10 to install the first ROVER systems onto the Tomcats. The squadron maintainers are quickly learning the modification process, providing both VF-213 and VF-31 with complete ROVER capability within a few days. ROVER upgrades to Carrier Air Wing 8 Tomcats will more than double the number of aircraft flying Operation Iraqi Freedom missions with this unique capability. Before ROVER capability, ground controllers had to rely on “visual talk-ons” to hunt for IEDs, track insurgents or follow suspicious vehicles. The ground controller would have a map he used to guide the pilots where they needed to go. The flight deck personnel on board Theodore Roosevelt reached a major milestone Dec. 12. In just 50 days they performed 10,000 aircraft moves without any mishaps. As reported on 13 December 2005, the Shadowhawks of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8’s Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 with Theodore Roosevelt, have overcome many challeges in establishing themselves as the first Navy Prowler squadron to set up operations at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. The electronic warfare capabilities of the Shadowhawks’ EA-6B Prowlers is enhancing the efforts of Marine Electronic Attack Squadron (VMAQ) 1 to provide aerial support for U.S. Marine Corps ground forces in Iraq. As reported on 14 December 2005, Theodore Roosevelt and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, has marked the first half of a six-month deployment, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf. TR began launching missions from its flight deck Oct. 6, and since then has conducted more than 4,000 sorties, with more than 28,000 pounds of ordnance expended in support of coalition forces in Iraq. USS San Jacinto (CG 56), USS Donald Cook (DDG 75), and USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) have been working, with support from CVW-8 aircraft, to pressurize the maritime environment in an effort to deny terrorist organizations its use to support their operations, while keeping the waters safe for merchant traffic and fishing vessels. Boarding teams from each ship have been conducting visit, board, search and seizure operations to intercept vessels that may be involved in illegal activity, while at the same time building relations with local mariners by providing first aid, mechanical assistance and even food from time to time. These mariners often provide information regarding suspicious or illegal operations. The “Black Lions” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 reached the halfway point of their current deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area in December. The Black Lions have flown during several periods of increased activity in Iraq, to include the Oct. 15 constitutional referendum and Operation Steel Curtain. Weather has been just one of the challenges the squadron has faced so far during the deployment. With temperatures hovering in the upper 90s most days, Black Lion maintainers have kept the Tomcats flying day-in and day-out. "This last Tomcat cruise is only possible because of the gallons of blood, sweat and tears put into these airplanes by our maintainers,” said Lt. Cmdr. Craig Snyder, squadron maintenance officer. “They routinely put up eight or nine airplanes a day despite the challenges of limited parts support for this 35-year-old war-horse. We are one team out here.” Underway in the Persian Gulf from 28 November to 23 December 2005.In December, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) proved quick to answer the fleet’s request to install technology on F-14 Tomcats that gives boots on the ground an eye in the sky. In early November, aviators serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom requested their Tomcats have the technology to download data to Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receivers (ROVER) - laptop computers that give troops the ability to view their surroundings from the aircraft’s point of view. “When an air crew establishes radio contact with troops on the ground, the first question they are asked is ‘are you ROVER download-capable?’ That shows how important it is to them,” said Lt. Cmdr. Lee “Griz” Grubbs, class desk for NAVAIR’s F-14 program (PMA 241), Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md. The F-14 program responded to the fleet request with an unprecedented push from requirement to real-world capability. The program had an obvious mandate to equip the aircraft early enough to make a difference on this last Tomcat deployment. Grubbs eyed another looming deadline he wanted to precede – Iraq's Dec. 15 elections to determine the government’s president and prime minister. In six weeks - a blink of an eye on the acquisition and development time scale - the program moved from paper to installing the data transfer systems on Tomcats, even allowing several days for pilots to train with the technology before election day. The systems arrived on the carrier Dec. 10. The first ROVER download-equipped flight took place the next day. “The team demonstrated NAVAIR’s capability at its best,” said Grubbs. "We probably made a significant difference in theater. We may have had a direct impact on the overall peace that existed during the Iraqi elections." The program has now equipped 22 Tomcats, with additional systems to spare. The upgrades to the Tomcat squadrons more than doubles the number of aircraft flying Operation Iraqi Freedom missions with the capability to download to ROVER. Theodore Roosevelt visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 24 to 27 December 2005 and during the Thanksgiving holiday week, VFA-15 and 87 personnel continued to provide air support from an air base in Iraq. Underway in the Persian Gulf on 27 December 2005. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps Gen. Peter Pace, came aboard Theodore Roosevelt (the Big Stick) on 29 December 2005 for the Chairman’s Holiday Troop Visit. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/AW) Terry Scott arrived aboard Theodore Roosevelt on 4 January 2006 to talk to Sailors about U.S. progress in the Middle East and the future of the U.S. Navy in the 21st century. Every Sailor plays a role and a father and daughter, both serving on ships in the Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group, are helping each other get through their current deployments. While Operations Specialist Seaman Lisa Kraft helps plot navigation charts aboard USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), her father Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (AW) Phil Kraft, leading petty officer of V-2 Maintenance Support, aids in the upkeep of the carrier’s catapults, arresting wires and associated support equipment aboard Theodore Roosevelt. Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD) personnel performed Sunday Catholic mass for USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) Sailors, Jan. 29. During their current deployment with USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, the “Scouts” of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 have taken the capabilities of the S-3B Viking to a new level. Since late October, in addition to performing their normal missions of conducting in-flight refueling for CVW-8 and surveillance operations for Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO), the Scouts have also been flying intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in support of British-led coalition ground forces of Multinational Division - Southeast (MND-SE), which are conducting operations in the southern part of Iraq. Helicopters flying from Theodore Roosevelt have been conducting similar missions in MND-SE, as well. Secretary of the Navy Donald Winter arrived aboard Theodore Roosevelt Jan. 30 to meet and talk with Sailors during his first overseas trip since assuming office. Prior to visiting Theodore Roosevelt, Winter made a trip to Fallujah, Iraq, where he spoke with military personnel. He also paid a visit to Sailors conducting security operations on Iraqi oil platforms, as well as Sailors aboard USS Austin (LPD 4). Air Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW) Steven Johns, leading petty officer for TR’s carrier air traffic control center (CATCC) was named Commander, Naval Air Force U. S. Atlantic Fleet (AIRLANT) Sea Side Air Traffic Controller of the Year (ACTOY) for 2005, Jan. 31. “The pinnacle of air traffic control is controlling at sea,” said Senior Chief Air Traffic Controller (AW/SW) Joseph Clark, CATCC leading chief petty officer. “This award represents the best in the seagoing air traffic controllers, and Johns is the best.” During the span of Jan. 31 through Feb. 1, a total of eight USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) Sailors re-enlisted while on deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations in the North Persian Gulf. A chapter in naval aviation history drew to a close Feb. 8 aboard Theodore Roosevelt with the last recovery of an F-14 Tomcat from a combat mission. Piloted by Capt. William G. Sizemore II, commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Fighter Squadron (VF) 213’s aircraft 204 was trapped at 12:35 a.m. and marked one of the final stages of the Navy’s transition from the F-14 to F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. “It’s the end of an era and it just kind of worked out that I was the last trap,” said Sizemore. “This is one of the best airplanes ever built, and it’s sad to see it go away. It’s just a beautiful airplane. It’s powerful, it has presence, and it just looks like the ultimate fighter.” Lt. Bill Frank, a VF-31 pilot, also took part in the last mission, and is credited with being the last pilot to ever drop a bomb from an F-14 Tomcat. The decision to incorporate the Super Hornet and decommission the F-14 is mainly due to high amount of maintenance required to keep the Tomcats operational. On average, an F-14 requires nearly 50 maintenance hours for every flight hour, while the Super Hornet requires five to 10 maintenance hours for every flight hour. The F-14 entered operational service with Navy fighter squadrons VF-1 Wolfpack and VF-2 Bounty Hunters aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in September 1974. The Tomcat’s purpose was to serve as a fighter interceptor, and it eventually replaced the F-4 Phantom II Fighter, which was phased out in 1986. During their final deployment with TR, VF-31 and 213 collectively completed 1,163 combat sorties totaling 6,876 flight hours, and dropped 9,500 pounds of ordnance during reconnaissance, surveillance, and close air support missions in support of OIF. VF-213 and 31 squadrons are transitioning to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets later this year. Underway in the Persian Gulf from 26 December 2005 to 10 February 2006, Theodore Roosevelt made her 12thGulf of Aden voyage en route to her 14th Suez Canal transit on 11 February 2006, underway in the Red Sea on 12 February 2006. As reported on 13 February 2006, the Supply Department’s S-3 Division, which is made up of 60 Sailors who run Theodore Roosevelt’s ship’s stores, barbershops, vending machines and laundry services, has earned the 2005 Commander, Navy Exchange Command (NEXCOM) Ship’s Store Retail and Services Excellence Award. Underway in the Red Sea from 12 to 14 February 2006. As reported on 15 February 2006, According to recent statistics from Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), Theodore Roosevelt is one of the Navy’s most efficient paid afloat commands in regards to pay transaction timeliness. Theodore Roosevelt and associated strike group units completed their support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) when the carrier and USS San Jacinto (CG 56) transited the Suez Canal on February 15 2006, making her 14th Suez Canal transit, transiting the northern passage, entering the Mediterranean Sea. However, detachments from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 and Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87, and VFA-15, remain in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and will rejoin the carrier and its associated air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, later this month. The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group is scheduled to relieve Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), which has been operating in theater since early October. “I’m very pleased with the performance of the entire strike group team,” said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. “Our Sailors have been able to achieve impressive effects in virtually every corner of the 5th Fleet maritime environment, in the skies over Iraq supporting U.S. and coalition troops, and through their exceptional conduct while on liberty ashore.” While in theater, Theodore Roosevelt and CVW-8 successfully launched both carrier and land-based flight operations in support of OIF and MSO. Sea Control Squadron (VS) 24 successfully divided the use of its S-3B Vikings to support both CVW-8 and British ground forces of Multi-National Division-Southeast (MND-SE) in southeast Iraq. Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 3 provided support for troops operating in MND-SE, as well. F-14 Tomcats assigned to Fighter Squadrons (VF) 213 and 31, as well as F/A-18s assigned to VFA-15 and 87, were also key factors to the mission’s success with their reconnaissance, surveillance, and close air support missions. “The team effort of TR and CVW-8 during the past four months has been vital not only to our success, but also to the success of the ground forces in Iraq,” said Capt. J.R. Haley, Theodore Roosevelt commanding officer. “Our efforts have saved the lives of the Marines and Soldiers on the ground. We made a difference to them – and to the people they are fighting for.” Theodore Roosevelt and CVW-8 launched more than 5,500 sorties, totaling more than 21,000 flight hours in support of OIF and MSO while in theater. Theodore Roosevelt visited Marmaris, Turkey from 16 to 19 February 2006. Operations on the 20th were not reported, while Theodore Roosevelt was underway in the Aegean Sea on 21 February 2006, visiting Souda Bay, Crete, Greece on 22 February 2006 and Corfu, Greece from 23 to 26 February 2006. Underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 27 February to 2 March 2006. As reported on 2 March 2006, Theodore Roosevelt’s CS-1 division of TR Combat Systems Department has set a higher precedence for all other Message Center (MAINCOMM) divisions throughout the fleet. During TR’s current deployment, CS-1 received a rating of 98 percent during a Comprehensive Communications Assessment for Communication Readiness certification (CRC). Theodore Roosevelt transited the Strait of Gibraltar and entered the Atlantic on 3 March 2006. Six squadrons from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 will return to Naval Station Norfolk and Naval Air Station Oceana March 9 and 10 following their six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt. The remainder of CVW-8’s squadrons will return to their homebases of Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Fla., and NAS Whidbey Island, Fla.B The “Tomcatters” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 31 and the “Black Lions” of Fighter Squadron (VF) 213 will close a chapter in the history of naval aviation by completing the final combat deployment in the F-14D Tomcat aircraft. VF-213 will almost immediately begin to transition to the F/A-18F “Super Hornet,” while VF-31 will remain operational until September 2006 when they will fly the last Tomcat in the Navy’s inventory from NAS Oceana. VF-31 will continue to operate the F-14D with CVW-8 throughout the spring and summer aboard Theodore Roosevelt during the ship’s readiness and sustainment period. They will begin their transition to the F/A-18E “Super Hornet” in October. Also returning will be the “Valions” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 15 and the “War Party” from VFA-87, both flying the F/A-18C Hornet, and the “Bear Aces” from Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 124 with their E-2C Hawkeyes, and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40, Detachment 1, the “Rawhides” flying C-2A Greyhounds. During CVW-8’s deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terrorism, their aircraft flew exactly 10,000 sorties and logged nearly 30,750 mishap-free flight hours. Of these, 3,300 flight hours were flown over Iraq delivering 52 bombs and air-to-ground missiles in support of coalition troops on the ground. The E-2C Hawkeyes provided airborne command and control while the C-2A Greyhounds provided logistics support by delivering mail, parts and personnel from the ship. Underway in the Atlantic from 3 to 10 March 2005, thousands of friends and family members gathered at Naval Station Norfolk, in the early Saturday morning chill for the return of Theodore Roosevelt’s early morning arrival March 11, following a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism. While deployed, Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 launched 5,412 sorties totaling nearly 19,362 flight hours in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Maritime Security Operations (MSO). CVW-8 maintained around-the-clock air operations from Theodore Roosevelt and Iraqi air bases. These missions set the condition for security and stability in the region by detecting, deterring and disputing international terrorist organizations. “We protected Soldiers and Marines on the ground, we protected Iraqi oil infrastructure, and we brought stability and security to the Arabian Gulf and the rest of the Central Command region,” said Rear Adm. James Winnefeld Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2. Her tenth deployment since her commission ended (1 September 2005 to 11 March 2006) at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Co., Newport News, Virginia on 25 October 1986 (1 September 2005 to 11 March 2006) and approximately the US Navy’s 773rd Carrier Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD). “Commanded by Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld, Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, TRCSG includes the Norfolk-based aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8; the Norfolk-based guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56); the Norfolk-based guided-missile destroyers USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75); the Spanish frigate SPS Alvaro de Bazan (F101); and the combat logistics ships USNS Mount Baker (T-AE 34) from Naval Weapons Station Earle, N.J., Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760), and fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) from Norfolk, Va.” (Ref. 84A & 681D). http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=19883 http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22660 Spanish frigate SPS Alvaro de Bazan (F101) also conducted a cooperative deployment as an intergraded part of TR CSG. The ship returned to Ferrol, Spain, in December. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Official U. S. Navy Web Site – 384A http://www.tr.surfor.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) News - http://www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn71 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Story Archive - http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=42 USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Photo Gallery http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/71.htm Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Story Archive http://www.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=18 Current Aircraft Carrier Location - http://www.gonavy.jp/CVLocation.html Revised May 3, 2009; bwh _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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