EQNEED - View topic - Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69)-OEF, OIF & MSO-780th FWFD - U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER DEPLOYMENT HISTORY DATA BASE - Forum posting restricted. - Free Message Board Hosting by FreePowerBoards.com

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) with CVW-7 embarked departed Norfolk, Va. 3 October 2006, on her 10th Mediterranean Sea deployment (16th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet and fifth Arabian Sea/Gulf (Persian Gulf) and 2nd Indian Ocean deployment (off the Somali coast) in support of her 1st Maritime Security Operations (MSO), her 1st Operation Enduring Freedom and 1st Operation Iraqi Freedom on the US Navy’s 83rd Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment September 1945, operating with the 5th Fleet and Central Command. Ike will make her 11th Suez Canal transit from the Mediterranean Sea, her 16th voyage in the Med, entering the Red Sea on her eighth Red Sea voyage and upon return will transit the northern passage of the Suez Canal from the Red Sea, her ninth voyage (1st one on a deployment), on her 12th Suez Canal transit, entering the Mediterranean Sea, her 17th voyage in the Med, in which 9 were deployments on the US Navy’s 123rd and 124th Suez Canal transit. She will under go her 16th deployment and since her commission 18 October 1977, Captain William E. Ramsey in command and approximately 780th FWFD” (Ref. 44, 47, 72, 84A & 383).

Commanded by Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 8, IKE CSG includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower, with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, and embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68); guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Mason (DDG 87); and the fast-attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), all homeported in Norfolk, Va.

CVW-7 includes Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) One Two Five “Tigertails,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Zero Three “Jolly Rogers,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Three One “Wildcats,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Four Three “Pukin’ Dogs,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) Eighty-three “Rampagers,” Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron One Four Zero “Patriots,” Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) Five “Nightdippers,” and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) Forty “Rawhides.” http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/023.html

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Atlantic on 3 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted operations in the Atlantic from 3 to 13 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Mediterranean Sea on 14 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 14 to 16 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) made a port call at Naples, Italy on 17 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) visited Naples, Italy from 17 to 20 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) weighed anchor in the Bay of Naples, Italy, Oct. 21, following a successful four-day port visit.

Ike and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) pulled in to Naples Oct. 17 for their first port visit of the deployment. Ike’s crew enjoyed opportunities to tour the surrounding areas, conduct a reception in the ship’s hangar bay, and provide tours for Italian and American citizens in the area.

During the visit, Sailors were able to see historical sites and engage in cultural exchange, experiencing the Italian culture.

“I liked Vatican City a lot; there was so much gold there,” said Culinary Specialist 2nd Class David Scott. “[Also] the ice cream in Rome was sweeter and creamier than back home in the States. For my first time visiting, it was great.”

Many crew members took advantage of the numerous tours offered by Ike’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) office. One-day trips included destinations such as the coastal town of Sorrento, a hiking trip to the top of Mt. Vesuvius and a visit to the ghost town of Pompeii.

“I had fun in Pompeii on the tour. It was interesting to see what life used to be like there,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Yasmeen Bryant.

The day trips also afforded Sailors an opportunity to see firsthand what the Italian lifestyle is like.

“[During my trip to Sorrento] everything I had was good,” said Seaman Brooke McElfish. “It was pleasant; it was breathtaking; it was Italian culture!”

“Going up to Rome was great, especially the Sistine Chapel,” said Damage Controlman 1st Class (SW) De’Damon Howard. “You see these places on television and wish you could go. Once you get there, you realize it’s even better in real life.”

Other Sailors chose to sit back and enjoy the views of the Italian countryside.

“The thing I enjoyed the most was a two-hour bus tour that stopped all over and let us take pictures of the architecture,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) Airman Tyrell Jackson.

In addition to the many liberty prospects in Naples, the port visit provided hundreds of Italian and American citizens in the area a chance to tour the aircraft carrier and attend a reception held in the ship’s hangar bay and hosted by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe Adm. Harry Ulrich, enabling the Sailors to share a piece of the U.S. Navy with the Italian community.

During his welcoming remarks at the reception, Rear Adm. Al Myers, commander, Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, expressed gratitude to the citizens of Naples for their hospitality and thanked the Italian community for their enduring friendship.

"As partners, Italy and the United States work closely together with other regional allies to strengthen our efforts to keep the sea free and safe for trade and commerce,” said Myers.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26207

061021-N-0490C-004 Mediterranean Sea (Oct. 21, 2006) – The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) gets underway, following a port visit to Naples, Italy.

Since entering Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Europe/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet’s area of responsibility in early October, Ike CSG has been planning theater security cooperation engagements and maritime security operations with the militaries of Italy, Cyprus, Bosnia, Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Romania.

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Mediterranean Sea on 21 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 21 to 24 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) made a port call at Limassol, Cyprus on 17 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) visited Limassol, Cyprus from 25 to 27 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Mediterranean Sea on 28 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 28 to 20 October 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) transited the Suez Canal, on her 11th transit of the Suez Canal on 30 October 2006 and entered the Red Sea in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Red Sea from 30 October to 1 November 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Gulf of Aden on 2 November 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Arabian Sea on 3 November 2006” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) embarked air wing CVW-7 began conducting Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) missions underway in the Arabian Sea in support of ground troops in Afghanistan Nov. 6th” (Ref. 76).

Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) took a break in the Arabian Sea to participate in a swim call Nov. 28.

More than 1,850 Sailors leaped from Ike’s Elevator 3, 27 feet above the warm salt water and then swam to the aft stern dock. Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5’s and Ike’s Search and Rescue (SAR) swimmers maintained a watchful eye and helpful hand in the water, while members of deck and engineering departments manned rigid hull inflatable boats.

“It was an opportunity for all hands to enjoy a unique experience that only fleet Sailors get a chance to do,” said Lt. William Edenbeck, Ike’s first lieutenant.

“I know I’ve done a couple of these before and in both cases, it was the most popular thing we did over the deployment,” said Capt. Dan Cloyd, Ike’s commanding officer. “People talked about it for years it seemed like, so when we had the opportunity to do it, we wanted to take that opportunity and let this great crew enjoy what may be a once in a lifetime experience.”

Sailors took turns by department to make the approximately 75-yard swim.

“The way back to stern is a lot longer than you think,” said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Ednidia Loaiza about her swim.

“We’re jumping off the ship; it’s a 27 foot drop. It’s pretty scary to jump off, but once you get there it feels good, and the water is really salty, but it’s a great swim. It feels really good, nice and warm,” said Hospital Corpsman Amy Clewis from Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125.

Most Sailors agreed the jump into the water was the most exciting part.

“It’s like being on a roller coaster when you go down,” said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Bassam Seifeldein.

After he jumped, one Sailor said he felt exhilarated.

“Your adrenalin’s pumping, they tell you to jump and when you look back up you’re like, ‘Man I can’t believe I jumped that high!’” said Airman David Valentine.

The Sailors had a large part in deciding where they entered the water from, which was what Edenbeck said was the most challenging part.

“The majority of the crew wanted to jump, so that’s why we chose the elevator,” said Edenbeck.

Ike’s deployment is a first for many of her Sailors, so the swim call gave much of the crew a chance to do something they had never done before.

“I tried to do this on my first deployment, but we didn’t get a chance to do it,” said Seifeldein. “I really appreciate Eisenhower doing this. I was blessed to get this chance.”

Even Sailors who have been in the Navy for several years got their first chance to enjoy a swim call.

“It’s my first time,” said Chief Machinist’s Mate Frank Helbig, who’s been a Sailor for more than 21 years.

Edenbeck said Ike has been planning the swim call for quite some time.

“Particularly with the extended time at sea, it’s a good time to relax a little bit,” he said.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26817

Senior enlisted advisors from throughout the Middle East area of responsibility visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), “Ike,” Dec. 3 to talk with Sailors and experience life at sea.

The visit was an opportunity for senior members of each branch of service to help strengthen the bond between the carrier and the troops on the ground.

“It bridges the gap,” said Army Master Sgt. Steven Gillespie, Combined Joint Task Force 76’s Joint Visitors Bureau non-commissioned officer-in-charge. “Sailors get to see the Soldiers. I’ve gotten to talk to some Sailors and tell them what the Soldiers are doing in Afghanistan and how they [Sailors] are helping us.”

The visit included tours of Ike’s flight deck, primary flight control, bridge, combat direction center, carrier air traffic control center and tactical flag command center.

“They see the big picture by seeing all these areas,” said Chief Yeoman (AW/SW) Vincent Caudill, Ike command master chief’s executive assistant and an escort for the visit.

The visitors took the opportunity to see how Ike contributes to each service’s mission.

”I think it’s vitally important we go out and see each other’s mission and how we support each other,” said Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Narofsky, command chief for 386 Air Expeditionary Wing.

The visitors, many seeing an aircraft carrier for the first time, were impressed with the capabilities of the ship.

“You’re a floating city,” said Narofsky. “You’re an entire base in the middle of an ocean. You can launch weapons systems from a steel deck and strike terror into the heart of the terrorists in Iraq.”

The aircraft Ike launches assist the troops on the ground, and the advisors acknowledged the strike group’s contribution.

“When you move up to the Gulf and start launching planes into Iraq, you’re actually supporting my air wing,” said Narofsky.

Caudill said the visitors took comfort in Ike’s air support.

“They all commented on the fact that when they know our aircraft are in the air, they feel a great sense of relief,” he said.

The visitors were extremely impressed with Ike’s flight deck and the crew.

“The command and control that goes on here is unbelievable,” said Gillespie.

During breakfast on Dec. 4, the advisors had a chance to sit down and eat with Ike’s crew and speak with them.

“I came out here to see junior Sailors, talk to them and tell them how great a job they’re doing,” said Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Eilmes, senior enlisted Marine in Afghanistan.

They also had an opportunity to exercise with the crew.

“It shows junior Sailors that we’re still in shape,” said Eilmes. “We’ll lead from the front. There’s no sense in sending you out there if we’re not going to go out there with you.”

Those who spent the day and evening on Ike will be able to pass on what they’ve learned from Ike and her crew.

“What I hope to do is take this back to my Soldiers so they know where their support comes from,” said Gillespie.

The visitors not only got a chance to thank Ike’s crew for their efforts, but also they got the chance to show the Sailors they aren’t alone.

“The biggest thing is saying thank you,” said Eilmes. “I can’t do my job, my Marines can’t do their job, without your support.”
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26894
Talk show host Montel Williams visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), "Ike," Dec. 3 for an overnight visit in the Persian Gulf to bring families closer together and to give Sailors a chance to send warm holiday greetings to the people who support them from home.

During his trip to Ike, he conducted interviews for his holiday shows.

"We originally started off thinking that we were going to tape one show but by the time I get done, I may have three shows," said Williams. "I have been walking around the ship asking people if they want to do shout-outs to family back home and they said yes. I am going to cut those into my commercial breaks to remind the people back home that there are military people over [seas] serving their country."

Williams said the Sailors are what compelled him to travel the distance to tape the show.

"We see all the stories on the news, but we never get to see the people," said Williams. "In the news, they talk about the aircraft carriers and the planes, but nobody talks about the fact that there are people on the ships. They are brothers, fathers, sisters, mothers, aunts, uncles and cousins. Our family members are out here, and that is why I wanted to come out here."

Williams had the opportunity to thank Sailors for what they are doing while deployed, and some thanked him for what he is doing to shed light on life at sea.

"This was definitely a morale boost," said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Patrick Reynolds from Ike's Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department. "Families get to see up close and personal what we do. That is important because we are so far away."

In addition to allowing service members to send greetings to family, Williams brought taped messages for a few Sailors from their families.

"I met a Sailor, and I had to bring a tape out here so he could see his newborn baby for the first time. That is the kind of thing that people back home don't understand, and I want to make them understand," said Williams.

As a former enlisted Marine and naval officer, Williams understands the hardships with being away from home for extended periods of time.

"I think that it is awesome that he took the time to come out here," said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Steven Winkler. "It is obvious that he does this because he wants to and not for publicity. He was in the Navy, so he knows what we go through, and he cares about what we go through."

Raising awareness and support for deployed service members is important to Williams.

"I wanted to come out here, especially this time of year to make people at home stop for a second and understand that while they are sitting at home eating turkey, you guys are out here paying the price," said Williams. "This is where the rubber meets the road, and I want people to recognize that."

The visit gave Williams a chance to reminisce on a time when he, too, served aboard an aircraft carrier.

"This is great getting the chance to come back here in the same location that I was on with USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) and see the level of professionalism and camaraderie," said Williams. "It's the same as when I was on active duty, and I am so proud that the tradition is still going on."

Williams credits his success both personally and professionally to lessons he learned in the military service.

"The military taught me discipline, taught me a work ethic and a purpose in doing something right," said Williams.

Winkler said that Williams' visit lifted the spirits of many crew members.

"It really makes a difference when someone like him comes out here and shows that they really care about what we are doing," said Winkler. "It really boosts morale."
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26896
Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) have received eight natural Christmas trees from Trees for Troops.

Trees for Troops started in Columbus, Ohio, when FedEx joined forces with the Ohio Christmas Tree Association’s “Operation Evergreen” to donate more than 200 Christmas trees to deployed service members.

“I received an e-mail from 5th Fleet’s chaplain that said there were 20 trees donated from Trees for Troops,” said Cmdr. John Maurice, Ike command chaplain. “I then contacted the supply officer, and Sara Dowell, the fun boss, so we could decide on the amount of trees we would like to request.”

Maurice then coordinated the delivery of eight Christmas trees.

The Christmas trees were set up on the mess decks and decorated by ship crew members to bring a sense of home to Ike.

“Having the trees and being able to decorate them reminds us all of home and being around the people we love,” said Maurice.

While decorating the Christmas trees, Sailors enjoyed sharing the holiday spirit with their shipmates.

“I helped decorate one of the trees, and I think the spirit of the holidays brings out the best of us,” said Culinary Specialist Seaman Abel Jimenez. “No matter how far away from family we are, our love is still the same.”

For Sailors deployed, celebrating the holidays is important because it brings back memories of holidays spent with their families.

“It is important to celebrate the holidays on the ship because the crew needs to break up monotony,” said Dowell. “It’s a good break from the regular day-to-day work schedule.”

Christmas is traditionally one of the most cherished holidays of the year, and while out to sea, some Sailors dedicated their time to help lift others’ spirits.

“Christmas is the time of the year where we can lift our spirits, where most people can hum and sing different carols and songs,” said Maurice. “It’s also the time of the year to reminisce on the happy times, eat different foods, have parties and give gifts.”

The trees bring back the memories for many Sailors on the Ike.

“Natural trees have a nice cedar scent,” said Dowell. “It gives a sense of being at home for the holidays and the trees alone make the mess decks look festive,” said Dowell. “Sailors aboard Ike had fun, especially the ones who helped decorate. It’s nice to see people caring about us by sending the trees to the ship.”

Maurice plans to thank Trees for Troops for their support and generosity during the holiday season.

“We will send a letter to Trees for Troops to show who benefited and extend our gratitude,” said Maurice. “Somebody somewhere sacrificed their time and income for our morale, which is certainly along the lines of the Christmas holidays, the time for giving and sharing.”

Ike departed its homeport of Norfolk, Va., Oct. 3, with the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations (MSO). Ike and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 have been flying missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom over Afghanistan since Nov. 6. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26911
“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) missions in support of ground troops in Afghanistan in the Northern Arabian Sea from 6 November to 10 December 2006” (Ref. 76).

“After nine days of operations, Eisenhower-based aircraft have flown 190 sorties, coordinating closely with coalition forces to counter anti-coalition militants, their movements and attacks, and to make a difference in providing for the safety and security of the people of Afghanistan.

“We are really excited and proud to be able to support ground combat operations,” said Cmdr. William Koyama, executive officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83.

“IKE air power is making a difference for ISAF soldiers. On one of these missions, we provided armed support as ground troops tried to MEDEVAC (medical evacuation) a wounded Soldier in close proximity to the enemy. In another case, one of our F/A-18C Hornets dropped all its ordnance to support Soldiers ambushed and pinned down in the open. As we reached a low fuel state and handed off to another section of aircraft before leaving, the controller on the ground thanked us and said, ‘You are surely angels on our shoulders.’ I have never done a more meaningful flight in the Navy.”

The air wing has expended Guided Bomb Unit (GBU) 12 bombs, a general-purpose, laser guided 500-pound bomb; GBU-38 bombs, a general-purpose Global Positioning System (GPS) guided 500-pound bomb; as well as 20 mm rounds from M61A1 and M61A2 Gatling guns on enemy positions.

“Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA), 143, the ‘Pukin’ Dogs,’ are excited to be able to support the OEF and ISAF operations with our new jets and their capabilities as part of CVW-7 and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower team,” said Cmdr. Jim Nichols, commanding officer of VFA-143. “Our air crew and Sailors have worked hard over the last year to prepare for this moment, and they are exceeding all expectations.

CVW-7 includes Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 “Tigertails,” VFA-103 “Jolly Rogers,” VFA-131 “Wildcats,” VFA-143 “Pukin’ Dogs,” VFA-83 “Rampagers,” Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron 140 “Patriots,” and Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) 5 “Nightdippers.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26691

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Persian Gulf on 11 December 2006” (Ref. 76).

Underway in the Persian Gulf from 11 to 12 December 2006, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) commenced Operation Iraq Freedom on the 12th” (Ref. 76).

CENTAF releases airpower summary for Dec. 12

12/13/2006 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- U.S. Central Command Air Forces officials have released the airpower summary for Dec. 13.

In Afghanistan Dec. 12, Air Force MQ-1 Predators conducted strikes against Taliban extremists near Kandahar. The Predators expended Hellfire missiles on enemy targets.

Royal Air Force GR-7 Harriers provided close-air support for International Security Assistance Force, or ISAF, troops in contact with Taliban extremists near Now Zad. The GR-7s expended enhanced Paveway II and Paveway II munitions, general-purpose 500-pound bombs and rockets on enemy positions.

Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs provided close-air support to ISAF troops in contact with enemy forces near Asadabad and Orgun-e.

In total, 31 close-air-support missions were flown in support of ISAF and Afghan troops, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Additionally, seven Air Force and RAF intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, or ISR, aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Afghanistan.

In Iraq, Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornets and AV-8 Harriers conducted a strike against anti-Iraqi forces near Ramadi. The F/A-18s and AV-8s expended rockets on enemy targets.

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles and Navy F/A-18s provided close-air support to troops in contact with anti-Iraqi forces near Baghdad. The F-15Es expended cannon rounds on enemy positions.

Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons provided close-air support to troops in contact with anti-Iraqi forces in the vicinity of Baghdad.

Navy F/A-18s provided close-air support to troops in contact with anti-Iraqi forces near Al Kut.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 42 close-air support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions included support to coalition troops, infrastructure protection, reconstruction activities and operations to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.

Additionally, 16 Air Force, Navy and RAF ISR aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Iraq. Navy and Air Force fighter aircraft performed in non-traditional ISR roles with their electro-optical and infrared sensors.

Air Force C-130 Hercules and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift support, helping sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa. They flew more than 140 airlift sorties, delivered approximately 520 tons of cargo and transported more than 2,500 passengers. This included about 9,200 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in eastern Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada, Japan and South Korea flew in support of OIF or OEF.

On Dec. 11, Air Force, RAF and French tankers flew 33 sorties and off-loaded more than 2.3 million pounds of fuel.
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123034986

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) Dec. 11-13, bringing great basketball and entertainment to Ike Sailors deployed in the Persian Gulf.

Priding themselves on being “Ambassadors of Goodwill,” the Harlem Globetrotters have entertained more than 123 million people in more than 100 different countries.

“A Globetrotter is a great basketball player, a skilled entertainer, a charismatic individual, one who has integrity, and one who is an ambassador of goodwill,” said Globetrotters power forward Eugene “Killer” Edgerson. “It’s not only about representing ourselves and basketball, but also the United States of America.”

Currently in the middle of a 21-day, Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) sponsored tour of the Middle East, which began on Nov. 25, the popular Globetrotters are scheduled to visit 12 U.S. military bases located in five countries including Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Djibouti and Qatar.

This marks their third consecutive year visiting U.S. troops overseas during the holiday season.

“Navy MWR and Armed Forces Entertainment cooperatively bring morale enhancing shows to improve quality of life of Sailors at sea,” said Karen Fritz, Navy Entertainment program manager.

“It just feels great,” said Harlem Globetrotter master showman Paul “Showtime” Gaffney. “I don’t think there’s anything better in the world than being part of an organization that brings happiness and joy to people.”

“The satisfaction of the fans is what matters, at the end of the game, you will not remember the score, but the great time you had, and that’s what it’s all about- everybody coming together and having a great time,” Edgerson said.

During a meet and greet on the mess decks, Sailors aboard Ike had the chance to sit down and talk to the Globetrotters and tell them a little about themselves.

“They’re very friendly and approachable,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class (AW) Larry Frost. “One of the Globetrotters is from my hometown, and we just started talking about stuff from back home.”

“However many Sailors I come across and talk to, I will try to remember their stories,” said Edgerson. “The richest people in the world can’t pay enough to have the experience I’m having with you all right now.”

The Globetrotters hosted a basketball game against the New York Nationals Dec. 12, in Ike’s hangar bay.

“Just being able to see what goes on behind the scenes with the Navy and meeting new people is a whole other world for us to see, and we appreciate you all like you appreciate us,” said Jake Royal, shooting guard for the Nationals.

The Globetrotters and Nationals put on a spectacular show for Sailors by combining their great basketball skills with sketch comedy routines.

The show started off with Harlem Globetrotters’ mascot “Globie” warming up the crowd with music, dancing, and throwing basketballs out to Sailors.

Ike Commanding Officer, Capt. Dan Cloyd, announced the Globetrotters as they came running out onto the court to their theme music, with the packed hangar bay cheering them on.

The show continued with the Globetrotters’ patented “Magic Circle,” a series of comedy skits that had Ike Sailors roaring with laughter, and amazing basketball skills that brought cheers and screams from the crowd.

“I just loved it,” said Ship’s Serviceman Seaman Meghan Isadore, a Sailor with Ike’s S-3 division. “I got all of their autographs on my basketball.”

After the show Ike Sailors were treated to another meet and greet with the Globetrotters, and a chance to get autographs and pictures taken with the team.

“This is a great American team, and they put on a good show,” said Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Douglas Campora with Weapons Department’s G3 division. “They’re happy to be here and are doing something great for us, and that makes me proud to be a Sailor.” http://www.navy.mil/search/print.asp?story_id=27040&VIRIN=41562&imagetype=1&page=1

http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/images/hi/070108-N-9479M-001.jpg

061221-N-3080T-005 Persian Gulf (Dec. 21, 2006) - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen addresses Sailors in the ship’s hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

CTF 158 Holds First Boarding Officer Training Conference

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USCG Boarding Teams Conduct Security Operations in Gulf of Aden

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USS Eisenhower, CVW 7 Conduct Flight Operations in Support of Maritime Security Operations

An aircraft director aboard the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) directs an E-2C Hawkeye from the "Tigertails" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 after a recovery.

http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/images/hi/070108-N-8907D-006.jpg

A plane director moves an E2-C Hawkeye from the “Tigertails” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 into launch position aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/images/hi/070110-N-3962E-001.jpg

An E2-C Hawkeye from the “Tigertails” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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A plane captain signals the pilot to check the flaps of an F/A-18F from the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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A plane captain performs start up checks with the pilot of an F/A-18F from the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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A plane director relays the pilot to the next director aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) prepare to launch an F/A-18 Hornet.

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An F/A-18 Hornet prepares to launch from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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Sailors on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) communicate using hand signals

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An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the "Pukin' Dogs" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An F/A-18C Hornet from the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 prepares to make an arrested landing aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An F/A-18C Hornet from the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 lands aboard the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during flight operations.

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An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during flight operations.

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An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An EA-6B Prowler from the “Patriots” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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A pilot boards an F/A-18 Super Hornet in preparation for night flight operations aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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An SH-60F Seahawk from the "Nightdippers" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 takes off from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

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The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) steams behind the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as an SH-60F Seahawk from the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti–submarine Squadron (HS) 5 prepares to land on Eisenhower's flight deck.
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061221-N-3080T-005 Persian Gulf (Dec. 21, 2006) – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen addresses Sailors in the ship’s hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa, Jr. visited Sailors underway in the Fifth Fleet Area of Operations (AOR) Dec. 21 to bring holiday greetings and to thank the Sailors for the sacrifices they are making.

Their stops in the Persian Gulf included the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), and the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68), before continuing on to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4).

One of the CNO’s main objectives was to let Sailors know their efforts are appreciated.

“It is great to be at sea again,” said Mullen. “I bring with me greetings from a lot of different people that care a great deal about what you’re doing. They express their gratitude for your service, and I want to express mine as well.”

While aboard Anzio, Mullen said, “We’re a nation that has been strong because people have decided to serve our country from its inception. There’s not a day that goes by in the job that I’m in, that I don’t think about what you’re doing out here.”

CNO and MCPON hosted all hands calls on both Ike and Anzio to talk to Sailors at the deck-plate level and answer questions.

Mullen discussed a variety of topics, including the importance of Sailors taking care of each other, current operations, the Navy’s way ahead, and leadership principles.

“I have to emphasize that we all work on developing our leaders,” said Mullen, while aboard Ike. “To lead well, you have to follow early. We must remember who we are as a Navy, emphasizing Honor, Courage, and Commitment.”

Mullen and Campa opened the floor to Ike and Anzio crews, answering questions dealing with many topics, including rating mergers, diversity, physical fitness requirements, and technology advances in the Navy.

“While Navy Knowledge Online (NKO) and other online capabilities that we have at our service are good, technology just can’t beat good leadership,” said Campa. “Nothing can compare to the eye-to-eye conversations a Sailor should have with a leader.”

Campa also talked with the ships’ chief petty officers and outlined his guiding principles.

“MCPON told the chiefs to get out and get with their troops,” said Anzio’s Chief Personnel Specialist (SW/AW) Wes Travis. “I like his mentality of getting back to deck plate leadership. We invest a lot of time into our troops,and I think with a renewed emphasis on that deck plate leadership, we’re only going to invest more into our future.”

Both Mullen and Campa expressed their pride and gratitude for the Sailors operating at the tip of the spear.

“Our three main priorities are the ability to do the mission that we have, to sustain a level of excellence and to operate at a high level,” said Mullen. “We’re better now than I’ve ever seen, and I’m proud to be associated with an organization that is this good.”

Giving credit to the families at home, Mullen said, “I also have the highest regard and appreciation for the sacrifice that your families are undergoing, and that’s amplified by the time of year. Obviously, over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays is a tough time of year to be away from home, but what it really represents is the sacrifice that has made our country great for a long time. So a priority for me is to make sure that we’re doing all we can to take care of our families in addition to doing all we can to take care of you.”

An added highlight of the visits included the CNO reenlisting crew members on both ships.

“It felt great being reenlisted by the CNO,” said Ike’s Chief Operations Specialist Antonio Taylor. “My main goal of my reenlistment term is to build better leaders.”

“I reenlisted because I like being out at sea,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Walter Smith from Ike’s Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department. “I really liked being reenlisted in the hangar bay in front of everyone by the Navy’s highest ranking officer.”

On Anzio, the CNO also awarded several warfare devices.

“It was a good feeling,” said Travis. “Not many people can say they got their warfare device pinned on by the Chief of Naval Operations.”

In addition to talking with Sailors and recognizing significant accomplishments, CNO and MCPON visited work spaces on both ships, and on Ike they shared a traditional holiday meal on the mess decks, before flying to Anzio and then to Boxer.

Ike, with embarked Carrier Air Wing Seven and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, and Anzio are part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, which departed Naval Station Norfolk on Oct. 3 for a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations. They entered the Commander, Fifth Fleet area of operations on Oct. 30.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27154

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Persian Gulf from 11 to 21 December 2006, commencing Operation Iraq Freedom on the 12th” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) made a port call at Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates on 22 December 2006” (Ref. 76).

Sailors aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) enjoyed some time off as well as a chance to experience a foreign culture during a five-day port visit to Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 22-26.

While in Jebel Ali, crew members had the opportunity to sightsee in nearby Dubai. Some opted for one of many Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) organized tours and still others ventured out to explore the glamorous Middle Eastern city.

“It is a beautiful city,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Aircraft Handling) Airman Matthew Clark, of Air Department’s V-1 Division. “I really enjoyed the shopping. You could find just about anything you wanted there, it was really cool. Dubai wasn’t anything like I expected. I just thought it would be nice to step off the ship, but it turned out to be the best port yet.”

The possibilities were endless for the crew as MWR offered a wide array of activities from sand surfing to a sunset safari to a golf tournament.

“It was a great country and there was so much to do there,” said Electrician’s Mate Fireman Damein Rivers. “I went on the sunset safari. All the sliding around was great. We went four-wheel driving and sand boarding. It couldn’t get any better than that.”

In addition to tours, several Ike Sailors chose to spend some of their time playing sports with local citizens. Six Ike Sailors played basketball against a semi-pro team from Dubai.

“The team beat us by six points but a good time was had by all,” said Cmdr. John Maurice, Ike Command Chaplain. “They have invited the Sailors to another game if we return for an additional port visit.”

Whether it was their first visit to Jebel Ali or not, Ike Sailors enjoyed their time in the United Arab Emirates.

“It was real nice,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class Darrell Robertson. “This is my sixth time here.”

Ike departed Jebel Ali Dec. 27, and returned to her mission in support of Maritime Security Operations.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27194

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Persian Gulf on 26 December 2006” (Ref. 76).

Video – CNO, MCPON Visit Naval Support Activity Bahrain or full page:
COMFIFTHFLT video News from the Fleet – http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/videos/index.html

CNO, MCPON Visit Naval Support Activity Bahrain

MANAMA, Bahrain (NSA) – On the tail end of a week-long trip through the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, the United States Navy’s highest ranking officer and master chief met with service members stationed in Bahrain Dec. 27.

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa, on a tour of U.S. Navy assets in the region, hosted an All Hands call with more than 500 Sailors and Department of Defense personnel assigned to the nearly 80 different commands based at Naval Support Activity Bahrain.

Mullen, who has served as CNO since July 2005, discussed a variety of topics during the nearly two-hour forum, including the direction in which U.S. Navy assets, personnel and activities are moving toward in an effort to shape military operations.

“This isn’t just about the region, it’s about the world,” Mullen said. “We live in a very tough time. There are many challenges and the security interests in this part of the world are vital and the US can’t do it alone. Engagement here is key and the thousands and thousands of Sailors who serve here – not just ashore in Bahrain but the Sailors who are at sea – really contribute to that security,” he continued.

Mullen and Campa also expressed their gratitude to the Sailors living day-to-day forward deployed. “I came to visit Sailors and to thank them for their service,” Mullen said. “This is a particularly challenging time of year for so many who are away from home. This is a vital region. Bahrain and our relationship with this country are also vital, so what Sailors are doing here really makes a difference. I just want to express my appreciation for all that they’re contributing to the security of the area, the region and the world,” he said.

In addition to visiting Sailors here, Mullen and Campa spent time aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), USS Anzio (CG 68), and USS Boxer (LHD 4), as well as meeting Sailors serving in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2006/244.html

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) arrived in Northern Arabian Sea on the 28th December 2006” (Ref. 76).

A boarding team from USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726) queries a commercial vessel Dec. 28 in the Gulf of Aden as part of ongoing Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the area. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, has been deployed since September in support of Combined Task Force (CTF)150. Midgett is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting CTF 150, which conducts MSO in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.

USCGC Midgett Carries Out Gulf of Aden Maritime Security Operations

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Petty Officer 2nd Class Rich Cleaves, a yeoman aboard USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726), keeps a sharp watch as Midgett's boarding team queries a commercial vessel Dec. 28 in the Gulf of Aden. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which conducts Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Coast guardsman perform man overboard procedures during drill

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Crew members aboard USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726) recover a mannequin as part of a man overboard drill Dec. 30. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, has been deployed since September in support of Combined Task Force (CTF)150. Midgett is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting CTF 150, which conducts Maritime Security Operations in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.

SCG Midgett medic trains during man overboard drill

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Petty Officer 3rd Class Ronald Closson, a health services technician aboard USCGC Midgett (WHEC 726), treats a compound fracture of the jaw on a mannequin Dec. 30 during a man overboard drill. Midgett, a 378-foot high endurance cutter homeported in Seattle, has been deployed since September in support of Combined Task Force (CTF)150. Midgett is one of many U.S. and coalition ships supporting CTF 150, which conducts Maritime Security Operations in the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. CTF 150 also supports Operation Enduring Freedom.

Dwight D. Eisenhower, At sea – Two Soldiers deployed to the Combined Air and Space Operations Center (CAOC) in Al Udeid, Qatar, have joined the crew aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) December 31, 2006 as Ground Liaison Officers (GLOs).

Maj. Dan Collins, and Sgt. 1st Class Richard Elias, from the 4th Battlefield Coordination Detachment, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, began their tour Aug. 29 as GLOs with the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). They spent two months performing their duties aboard Enterprise before IKE entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Oct. 30, to relieve Enterprise during regularly scheduled deployments.

With the aid of the GLOs, pilots are given more information on how to make their mission more effective in supporting troops on the ground whether they’re flying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom or Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“They make sure that the pilots have more situational awareness before they take off,” said Col. Glenn Harp, Commander of the 4th Battlefield Coordination Detachment (BCD) which oversees the Army liaison officers. “The better situational awareness a pilot has, the better success of integration and synchronization of the ground power with the air power.”

Harp came out to IKE Dec. 31 to visit with the GLOs and observe flight operations and the strike group concept from sea. He was able to see the work his Soldiers are doing and the effects they have had on air operations.

“I think having the GLOs has been a huge advantage,” said Lt. j. g. David Ortiz, a member of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103, the “Jolly Rogers.” “We’re having to fight this war on all fronts. Having these guys come aboard helps us work together better.”

The troops on the ground send IKE information on how they’ll move.

“We translate it so the pilots in the air have a better idea about what’s going on below them,” said Collins.

The GLOs help more than IKE pilots. They coordinate IKE’s efforts with about 30 other coalition countries.

“We’re kind of out there talking to the whole force,” said Elias.

The coordination between countries unifies the efforts of the coalition forces as a symbol of the phrase, “one team, one fight.”

“It provides a good insight into how coalition forces should work together, especially U.S. Forces,” said Ortiz. “It’s not a one force fight.”

Harp feels that each service brings a different capability, and IKE’s ability to move around and help a mission where it’s needed is a valuable asset.

“It (our mission) would not be as successful as it has been lately without IKE in theater,” said Harp.

The GLOs are able to assist the strike group because of the experience they’ve gained throughout their time on the ground.

The GLOs provide feedback from the ground on how the mission went. Along with progress reports, Collins and Eilas have a chance to share the troops’ appreciation for what the IKE Strike Group does.

“The response is so strong that if it was up to them, the carrier would stay for support,” said Collins. “Several times now, we’ve heard that the pilots on this air wing have been the angels on their shoulders.”

For every ounce of appreciation the GLOs pass on to the Sailors, IKE pilots return the same amount of respect.

“We get both sides,” said Collins. “The ground troops tell us they love what they (pilots) did, and they turn around and tell the ground guys, ‘whatever you need, we’ll get it for you.’”

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is currently providing close air support, shows of force and reconnaissance missions in support of troops on the ground participating in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

CVW-7 includes the “Tigertails” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, the “Jolly Rogers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103, the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131, the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, the “Rampagers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, the “Patriots” of Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron 140, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5, and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/002.html
_________________

U. S. Navy Veteran
August 1977 to July 1983

Yoeman Second Class,
with student pilot's license

070104-N-6700F-001 Arabian Sea (Jan. 4, 2007) - USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Commanding Officer, Capt. Dan Cloyd, watches from auxiliary control as a wave crashes alongside the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) during an underway replenishment.
https://navcms.news.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=41992

HMCS Ottawa Conducts Interaction Patrols in South Arabian Gulf
By Lt(N) H. Diane Grover, HMCS Ottawa Public Affairs Officer

HMCS OTTAWA, At Sea – Throughout the month of December the Canadian patrol frigate HMCS Ottawa conducted interaction patrols (IPATS) in the South Arabian Gulf. IPATS are an element of Maritime Security Operations (MSO), which help generate support and awareness amongst commercial vessels sailing in the region of the coalition’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment.

Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that all commercial shipping can operate freely while transiting the region.

“We alert them [commercial vessels] to our presence,” explained Canadian navy Lt. Simon Nadeau, Ottawa’s boarding officer, adding that, “it’s important that they know we understand the complexity of the situation and are here to help.”

During a recent IPAT to a fishing dhow, two members of Ottawa’s boarding party, Leading Seaman Jules Charbonneau and Leading Seaman Richard Blanchard, helped the dhow’s crew catch some fairly big fish. Despite language differences, the sight of grinning Canadian sailors standing alongside equally bemused Indian fisherman sharing their bounty symbolically reflected the gains that the coalition has made here.

According to Nadeau, the dividends from such an informal and non-confrontational stance are substantial. Nadeau said fishermen are more amenable to working with and supporting the coalition when they have first-hand positive experiences. Most importantly, he said, they are also more willing to talk to members of the boarding party and share their experiences in the region. “Such relationships with regional fishermen are invaluable and assist command staff in gaining greater knowledge about who is operating in the area and what they are doing,” Nadeau said.

On another occasion, Ottawa encountered a dhow that was experiencing engineering trouble. “We always ask the dhow’s master and crew if everything is alright, and in this instance, they told us about a problem they were having with their battery,” explained Nadeau. “We sent over a technician who was able to diagnose the problem, provide them the information they needed to get it fixed when they returned to port, as well gave the dhow’s crew a weather forecast.”

While such encounters may seem inconsequential in isolation, together they contribute to the overall maritime security picture.

HMCS Ottawa is on a six-month deployment to the U.S. Central Command’s area of maritime operations and is part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150. Since its inception, CTF 150 has been commanded by France, the Netherlands, Germany, Pakistan, and is currently commanded by UK Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams.

This deployment demonstrates Canada’s ongoing contribution and commitment to its coalition allies in the campaign against terrorism and proves the relevance of the navy in the new security environment.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/004.html

As reported on 4 January 2007: With the E-7 exam approaching this month and the E-4, E-5 and E-6 exams in March, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) is extending every opportunity for her Sailors to reach the next step in their naval career.

“Being able to advance is going to make you a more valuable Sailor,” said Master Chief Fire Controlman (SW/AW) Anthony Campbell, a member of Ike’s Advancement Focus Group. “It gives you respect and puts money in your pocket inside the Navy and outside of it.”

Ike and the Advancement Focus Group have implemented several plans to ensure Sailors have all the tools they need to advance in their rates.

All departments send two representatives for each pay grade to take a basic military requirements (BMR) test created from the same information used in the actual advancement exams.

Each eligible Sailor will be expected to take a test, by department, covering BMR and professional military knowledge three times before the March exam cycle.

“Statistically I would say 90 percent across the board who perform badly on the exam do so in the BMR portion because it’s taken for granted,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Aircraft Handling) 1st Class Michael Duzenski, Ike’s training department leading petty officer.

Campbell agreed.

“I’ve had Sailors in my department tell me if they hadn’t done well on the BMR portion, they wouldn’t have advanced,” said Campbell.

Ike plans to utilize the study techniques Ike's Combat Systems Department used last cycle in hopes that the results will be the same for all of IKE’s Sailors. Fifty-four percent of the Sailors who tested from Combat Systems Department advanced last cycle.

“Any program I’m involved in, I like to be number one,” said Campbell.

Each department is working to develop a binder for Sailors eligible for advancement. The binders are comprised of an average of the Sailor’s three weakest test areas as well as the Sailor’s last two profile sheets (if they’ve participated), a copy of the division’s training plan, the rate bibliography for advancement, the rating master reference list, and a professional military knowledge master reference list.

“That’s just to get you started,” said Campbell. “We just want you to have it and keep your mind on it so you’ll study and advance.”

Combat systems utilized the binders to achieve their spectacular advancement percentage. Sailors must carry their binders with them wherever they go, until the signature sheet provided in the binder is completed.

The Advancement Focus Group plans to implement a program that will give Sailors a step by step process to advancement called a professional development manual.

“If a Sailor checks into my department, I’ll be able to give him a book with everything he or she needs to make rank,” said Campbell.

Since most Sailors don’t have internet access, the Advancement Focus Group plans to have all the bibliographies for each rate available for all Sailors in time for the September exams.

In addition to all the new steps Ike has taken to help Sailors advance, there are programs already available for Sailors to use. One resource is Navy Knowledge Online (NKO).

“Just about everything that you’re required to do for advancement is available to you on NKO,” said Duzenski.

There are human resources available to Sailors as well. Each Sailor has a mentor available to them for professional guidance.

“I wasted a lot of years not getting advanced because I didn’t know how to do it,” said Campbell, who did not have the advantage of a mentor when he joined the Navy.

Duzenski contends that the Sailors themselves decide whether or not they advance.

“One of the biggest factors in advancement is personal drive,” he said. “[It depends on] how bad you want it.”

“I don’t ever want to be the only one to advance,” said Duzenski. “Just like misery loves company, success loves company.”
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27226

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted operations in the Northern Arabian Sea from 28 December to 5 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

Forty-three Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) were awarded their warfare pins at a mass pinning ceremony held Jan. 6.

Ten Sailors earned their Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist (EAWS) designation, and 33 earned their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) designation.

The EAWS/ESWS pin signifies a high level of professional skill, knowledge and experience in their respective warfare area.

Sailors stood in ranks as they were called up one by one to be pinned by Ike’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Dan Cloyd, who congratulated each Sailor for a job well done.

“I would like to thank everyone who put forth the effort to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Cloyd. “And I would like to thank the mentors who helped these Sailors attain their goal.”

For many of the Sailors, earning their warfare pins is another step toward achieving other goals.

“It feels great earning my pin; this is just another milestone for me,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class (AW) Scott Campbell. “I’ll be working on getting my surface pin next.”

“I’m trying to earn both of my warfare pins before I start school in March,” said Seaman (SW) Fhantyka Crutchfield. “It feels great getting my surface pin.”

The ceremony was organized by Senior Chief Air Traffic Controller (AW/SW) Tommy Zottman, Ike’s command warfare coordinator.

“All of this couldn’t have happened if everyone didn’t come together to make it work,” said Zottman. “I would like to encourage everyone on the ship to take the opportunity while we’re underway to qualify for both warfare designators.”

When 100 percent of a ship’s E-5 and above personnel who have been on board for more than 18 months and 80 percent of a ship’s E-5 and above who have been on board for less than 18 months earn both warfare pins, the ship is awarded the EAWS and ESWS pennants.

Ike’s Command Warfare Program personnel are striving to earn both the EAWS and ESWS pennants for the ship before the end of deployment. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27246

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) operations not reported from 6 to 8 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) commenced operations off the Somali coast, Indian Ocean on 8 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

Ship’s Vision: USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) Plan for today and tomorrow – 9 January 2007
http://www02.clf.navy.mil/eisenhower/Current5S.pdf

WASHINGTON, Jan. 9, 2007 – U.S. Air Force AC-130 gunships struck al Qaeda targets in Somalia yesterday, news sources reported last night.

The operation allegedly hit al Qaeda concentrations in the southern part of the country, but Pentagon officials did not comment.

The U.S. 5th Fleet moved the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower into the waters off Somalia in an effort to capture al Qaeda terrorists attempting to flee the country, a 5th Fleet spokesman said.

United Nations-recognized Somali government officials said the strikes were aimed at al Qaeda terrorists who planned the attacks against the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998.

The Ethiopian military entered Somalia Dec. 24 with the mission of neutralizing the Council of Islamic Courts, a Muslim extremist group that took power in the Somali capital of Mogadishu. The Ethiopian forces took the capital in 10 days and terrorists and their sympathizers allegedly moved south toward the border with Kenya to escape.

More U.S. ships are moving in to the waters off Somalia to reinforce the maritime interdiction effort there, said U.S. 5th Fleet officials. “Due to rapidly developing events in Somalia, U.S. Central Command has tasked USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to join USS Bunker Hill, USS Ramage, USS Anzio and USS Ashland to support ongoing maritime security operations off the coast of Somalia,” said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Charlie Brown, a spokesman for 5th Fleet in Bahrain.

The ships will stop vessels and search them for al Qaeda terrorists attempting to escape from Somalia, officials said.

Press reports said the AC-130 attacks hit an area called Ras Kamboni, a heavily forested area near the Kenyan border. The area is allegedly a terror training base. Press reports said there were casualties in the area, and Somali officials said they had captured 28 suspected al Qaeda terrorists.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/afps1.html

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility (Jan. 10, 2007) – An SH-60F Seahawk from the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 flies near the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility (Jan. 10, 2007) – An MH-60S Seahawk from the “Grandmasters” of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 46 lands aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68).

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility (Jan. 10, 2007) – An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the "Pukin' Dogs" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during flight operations.

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility (Jan. 10, 2007) - A member of the Whidbey Island class dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team boards the ship after a night on patrol. Ashland is currently on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/photos/index.html

A Sailor prepares an F/A-18C Hornet from the "Wildcats" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 prior to flight operations aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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070112-N-3962E-006 U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility (Jan. 12, 2007) – Sailors prepare for flight operations on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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A Sailor directs an F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Jolly Rogers" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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A Sailor stands by waiting to complete final checks on an SH-60F Seahawk from the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An SH-60F Seahawk from the "Nightdippers" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 has lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An SH-60F Seahawk from the "Nightdippers" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 takes off from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An F/A-18C Hornet from the "Rampagers" lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin’ Dogs” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).
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A Sailor watches as the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) pulls alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during a Fueling at Sea (FAS).
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The Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) pulls alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) for a refueling at sea.
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As reported on 21 January 2007, English politician and writer Joseph Addison once said, “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.”

Sailors on board the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) and throughout the Navy can give their minds a proper workout by participating in the Navy Professional Reading Program.

The Navy Professional Reading Program, introduced in October by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen, was created to encourage independent reading which contributes to education, development, personal and professional growth, and the stimulation of critical thinking. The books are selected by the Naval War College.

“These books are full of good morals for Sailors,” said Religious Program Specialist Seaman Jayson Billstone, Ike Religious Ministries Department. “Honesty, integrity, good leadership; they’re all here.”

Sailors will find books in five different categories, ranging from the junior enlisted collection to the senior leader's collection.

“The first book I’m going to read is ‘The Caine Mutiny’ by Herman Wouk,” said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Serrita Harris, who serves on the staff of Commander, Carrier Strike Group Eight. “It’s something that readers on the ship can really appreciate.”

“I read ‘Not a Good Day to Die’ by Sean Naylor,” said Chief Quartermaster (SW/AW) Michael May, Navigation Department’s leading chief petty officer. “It gives you more information on the subject matter than what you’ll find on TV.”

The program is also designed to deepen Sailors’ appreciation of who they are and what they’re part of, with a broader understanding of Naval heritage. Sailors also develop better leadership, performance and decision-making skills through improved intellectual habits.

“I’ve read a lot of these books, and there’s just so many great [selections to read],” said Ike Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Shaun Brown. “It’s really an outstanding program.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27388

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 reached the halfway point in their deployment Jan. 28, 2007.

Currently operating within U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s (NAVCENT) area of responsibility (AOR), Eisenhower and its carrier strike group are conducting maritime security operations (MSO).

To date, CVW-7 has flown 5,839 sorties and has logged more than 15,489 flight hours since the deployment began, providing air support for multi-national coalition ground forces in support of various operations in U.S. Central Command’s AOR.

A critical part in supporting operations is underway replenishments (UNREP). So far, Ike has completed 18 UNREPs, bringing everything from jet parts to food to fuel aboard the ship. Ike has taken on more than 19,000 pallets of supplies.

“I think the most memorable rapped g at sea was with USS Anzio (CG 68). We provided more than 300,000 gallons of JP-5 to them when they really needed it,” said Ship’s Boatswain Chief Warrant Officer Lyedell Gibson. “We made it look like we were one of the combat logistics force ships that do these types of refuelings routinely.”

The ship’s post office keeps Ike Sailors in touch with their loved ones, and has taken on about 235,000 pounds of mail.

“Two days before we pulled into Jebel Ali, we received the largest amount of mail to date, around 41,000 pounds,” said Postal Clerk 2nd Class Adrien Dicks of Supply Department’s S-12 division. “It took about a week to fully process it out to the crew.”

Food Service Division has also played a big part in keeping the crew happy. In the past four months, the carrier’s personnel have consumed 12,095 gallons of milk, 340,920 eggs, 51,000 pounds of ground beef, 106,851 pounds of chicken and 195,624 cups of cereal.

“The Thanksgiving dinner was one of the most challenging events we did,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Richard Scott, Food Services day crew supervisor. “It all worked out in the end, and we all felt great that the crew enjoyed the meal.”

Looking back on the first half of the cruise, Ike Sailors said there are many great experiences they have had during this deployment.

“I really enjoyed getting to see Italy and Cyprus,” said Quartermaster 3rd Class Melanie Berg of Navigation Department.

Other Sailors appreciated some of the special events Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) has put together.

“Having the Harlem Globetrotters on board was great. They definitely gave us the morale boost we needed,” said Ship’s Serviceman Seaman Robert Newman, of S-7 Division.

Ike celebrated the half-way point with special events planned by MWR, including an ice cream social, Ike Idol Show and karaoke.

“It’s important to commemorate the mid-way point,” said Ike Fun Boss Sara Dowell. “It’s a big milestone that needs to be recognized.”

The Ike Carrier Strike Group entered the Commander, 5th Fleet AOR on Oct. 30, and continues to conduct MSO. MSO helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complementing the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These 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=27505

Sailors from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 participated in a historic reenlistment ceremony of astronomical proportions. Astronaut and Capt. Michael Lopez-Alegria, commander of the International Space Station (ISS), presided over the ceremony from space Jan. 29, via video teleconference (VTC), along with astronaut and Cmdr. Suni Williams, flight engineer.

Sixteen Sailors became the first from Ike to be reenlisted by an officer from NASA in a ceremony which crossed Earth’s atmosphere to the ISS orbiting 200 miles above. The VTC included the ISS, NASA, Ike, and a Norfolk, Va., site for families to participate.

“It’s pretty exciting,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Aircraft Handling) 3rd Class Dubiell De Zarraga, from Ike’s Air Department, V-1 Division. “I’m pretty sure I’m going to remember this for the rest of my life, and my family will also.”

Ike’s commanding officer, Capt. Dan Cloyd, and Lopez-Alegria crossed paths through mutual friends just before Lopez-Alegria’s mid-September launch for the ISS. They both became determined to find special ways to bring the ISS and Ike crew together.

“The space station and Ike have a special bond in that before he left, Michael took along two commissioning pennants from the ship,” said Cloyd. “He is holding one for him and the space station, and one he will present upon his return to us.”

Cloyd and Lopez-Alegria worked together to help create a unique experience for an important event in a Sailor’s career.

“Everybody always wants to make their reenlistment special,” said Cloyd. “This was a great idea as well as an opportunity to do something historic.”

Lopez-Alegria felt it was a special honor to take part in a crucial point in a Sailor’s naval career.

“We really feel close ties to the Navy and unfortunately it’s difficult to maintain those ties given our jobs and certainly given our locations. This is a great opportunity for us to share this with you,” said Lopez-Alegria.

One Sailor had the chance to speak to Lopez-Alegria and Williams following the reenlistment to deliver a message from the reenlisting Sailors.

“On behalf of my fellow reenlistees and myself, I would like to thank you for taking time out of your busy day, and for giving us this once in a lifetime opportunity to reenlist with you while you’re serving aboard the International Space Station,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Courtney Busdeker, from Ike’s Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department’s (AIMD), IM-3 Division.

Later she said, “Maybe one of us who reenlisted today will be in their position (someday).”

Before Sailors could raise their hand and solemnly swear to defend America’s Constitution, people from numerous commands had to work together to ensure the stars could align and make the event possible.

“For 16 Sailors and their families to experience this event, I couldn’t even begin to tell you how many people were either directly or indirectly involved in putting this together,” said Chief Navy Counselor (SW/AW) John Wise, a command career counselor aboard Ike.

Cmdr. Zig Leszczynksi, space operations officer for Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (Ike CSG), helped put Ike coordinators in contact with the right people at NASA by working through a friend at NASA, Astronaut Capt. Chris Ferguson.

Ike CSG is the 2nd Fleet Executive Agent for Space, in support of the Naval Space Campaign, which aims to incorporate space capabilities in naval operations.

“It’s easy for me to go through the Navy Space Cadre, a network of space professionals throughout the Navy, including NASA astronauts, to make sure this happened,” said Leszczynksi. “This is one of many times we were able to use the Space Cadre Network to accomplish the mission.”

Leszczynski said the reenlistment was symbolic of history the Navy has had in space.

“The Navy has a great heritage in space,” he said. “This ceremony is one way that this great Navy heritage continues.”

Lopez-Alegria felt the reenlistment was a nice effort to continue that relationship.

“We’re sorry you can’t float with us or look out the window, but you’re here with us in spirit, and we wish the best to you and your ship,” said Lopez-Alegria.

The event also allowed some of the Sailors a chance to see the ones they love back home in Norfolk. Family members woke up before sunrise to participate.

“It’s exciting,” said the wife of Yeoman 3rd Class Airrion Lemons, from the “Rampagers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83. “I want to tell him he’s doing a good job and keep up the good work. It’s hard, but there’s a lot of dedication put into it. So we support him the best way we can.”

The couple has been married for six months.

“It feels great because not everybody has that support,” said Lemons. “Family support is number one, and it keeps you going each and every day.”

Each Sailor reenlisted for his or her own reasons, but using Naval Space technology to connect Sailors to outer space and back home helped make reenlisting a special experience.

“I’ve passed on some opportunities before because I had work to do,” said Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic (AW) Richard Klein from the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131. “But this was something I wasn’t going to pass up on. It’s cool for me to be a part of something that’s never been done before.”

The Sailors reenlisted for a total of 57 years, and, all together, those eligible received more than $42,700 dollars in reenlistment bonuses.

“I thought I’d done pretty much everything as far as reenlistments go,” said Senior Chief Navy Counselor (SW/AW) Matthew Ambrose, a command career counselor aboard Ike. “It’s out of the ordinary...a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27511

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted operations off the Somali coast, Indian Ocean from 8 to 29 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) departed Somali's coast to return to the Persian Gulf region on 30 January 2006, conducting operations off the Somali coast, Indian Ocean from 8 to 29 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Arabian Sea on 31 January 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) embarked air wing CVW-7 Dwight D. Eisenhower conducts attack missions against Al Qaeda Haven underway in the Arabian Sea from 31 January to 3 February 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returned to Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) missions in the Northern Arabian Sea on 4 February 2007.

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE), returned to providing close air support and reconnaissance missions for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan, starting Feb. 4, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

CVW-7 has flown more than 6,900 sorties and logged more than 18,000 flight hours since deployment began. Its missions have included providing air power support for multi-national forces on the ground in support of operations in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility and contributing to security and stability in the region.
“The ability of the carrier to move quickly within the 5th fleet area of operations and provide support wherever needed demonstrates the flexibility that this team brings to the theater,” said Rear Adm. Al Myers, commander of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG). “We’re here to do our part, alongside our multi-national partners, promoting peace, stability and security for the people of Afghanistan.”

ISAF is comprised of more than 35,000 troops, with contributions from 37 nations.

CVW-7 includes Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) One Two Five “Tigertails,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Zero Three “Jolly Rogers,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Three One “Wildcats,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Four Three “Pukin’ Dogs,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) Eighty-three “Rampagers,” Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron One Four Zero “Patriots,” Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) Five “Nightdippers,” and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) Forty “Rawhides.”

IKE is the flagship for the IKE CSG, which includes its embarked air wing, CVW-7, and embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68); guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); and the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87), all homeported in Norfolk, Va.

The IKE CSG entered the Commander, 5th Fleet area of operations Oct. 30, and continues to conduct Maritime Security Operations helping set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complementing the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/023.html

Sailors underway aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) took time out from their deployment operations to enjoy a steel beach picnic Feb. 13 on the ship's flight deck.

“The picnic was a great time to get away from work,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW) Clarence Savage.

Ike’s Supply Department fired up grills to cook and serve hot dogs and hamburgers to more than 5,000 Sailors.

“Steel beach picnics are one of those things unique to deploying on a ship,” said Ike’s Fun Boss Sara Dowell. “It’s a great way to get out and enjoy fresh air and sun after being inside the skin of the ship for awhile.”

Dowell set up many events to boost morale and help the Sailors enjoy a good time. Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) set up events like bouncy boxing, golf, sumo wresting, volleyball, water balloon games, tricycle races, an aircraft carrier version of the tractor pull, karaoke, a band, a D.J. and fishing.

“The tractor pull was awesome,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class (AW) Timothy Beins.

A popular event for Ike Sailors was sumo wrestling, where Sailors don larger-than-life size sumo suits.

“They [the sumo wrestlers] were funny and a joy to watch,” said Storekeeper Seaman Shannon Gray.

Sailors used the bouncy boxing match to release a little energy.

“I liked the bouncy boxing ring, because I had a blast bouncing around with huge gloves on my hands and releasing some aggression with a fellow Sailor,” said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Nhiel Amposta.

In addition to the many MWR events, there was still plenty of room on the flight deck to enjoy a nice day relaxing.

“The purpose of a steel beach picnic is to break up the daily working routine and provide an avenue for Sailors to relax and unwind a bit between port visits,” said Dowell. “Everyone has been working extremely hard and this was a great way to say thanks.”

Overall, Sailors enjoyed the events, the food that the culinary specialists cooked and the time to relax and enjoy a nice sunny day on the flight deck.

“The picnic was a good time off,” said Information Communications Technician Electrician 3rd Class (SW) William Overton. “I took advantage of the time away and slept in. Overall, it was a good change of pace.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27805

On Feb. 23, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) broke the record set by the Enterprise-class aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for the most participation in the United Through Reading (UTR) program, producing a record number of 1,671 messages during a single cruise.

United Through Reading is a quality of life program for military families which helps keep parents and children connected, by videotaps of the deployed service member reading aloud to their children.

By establishing an appointment with coordinators aboard the ship, Sailors are able to record their messages onto a DVD. Provided with packaging for their message home, they are able to send it to their families at no cost.

“All a Sailor has to do to participate in the program is sign up and show up,” said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW/SW) Nathan Montes, Ike’s UTR program coordinator.

The 1,671st participant, Postal Clerk 2nd Class (AW/SW) Thomas Hammar, was extremely impressed by the program’s success and the opportunity it afforded him. He recorded a message for his two children, reading ‘The Little Mermaid’ for his daughter, 3, and son, 2.

“It is great if you have kids, especially young kids,” said Hammar.

UTR was established to provide a way for Sailors to comfort their children during an extended absence, such as a cruise. The program was a favorite of first lady Laura Bush, who promoted it from the White House.

“Our big supporters are the ones that donate the books and our United through Reading coordinators on the home front,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class (AW/SW) William Coxe.

Increased demand has extended the program to convey messages from Sailors to spouses and family members and give a more personal connection during difficult times being away. Its simplicity has also made it popular.

“You can always rely on the fact that you can make an appointment,” said Coxe. “Record the reading, and then send it. It’s that simple.”

Holidays are especially popular, with increased participation from Sailors during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

“It is definitely good for morale,” said Hammar. “It helps that my kids get to see me every couple of weeks.”

The UTR program provides families with a visual connection that brings loved ones closer during deployments.

“This program is so that Sailors can have a visual impact with their children at home,” said Montes. “This is a way that their children can see their parents for a half hour and say ‘Hey, I’m doing fine’.”

UTR involves not only the participating Sailors, but relies on volunteer Sailors, who assist in the recording of the messages.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27996

As reported on 25 February 2006, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) earned the Commander Naval Air Force Carrier Battle Efficiency “E” award for the East Coast, calendar year 2006.

The Battle “E” is awarded annually to ships that display the maximum condition of readiness in their group, and for their capability to perform their wartime responsibilities.

The Battle “E” award is presented by the respective type commanders (TYCOM) to the carrier under their cognizance, which has achieved the highest level of battle readiness.

Capt. Dan Cloyd, Ike’s commanding officer, credits the crew with the success. “I’m proud, honored and privileged to serve with and be a part of such a great team of leaders, mentors and sea warriors,” said Cloyd.

Respective TYCOMs present departmental awards at the end of the competitive cycle to individual departments having achieved outstanding levels of departmental readiness, prerequisite to the winner of the Battle “E.”

“Ike receiving the award is the culmination of a lot of hard work, dedication and what can be summed up as the relentless pursuit of excellence all aboard our great warship,” said Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Martin, Ike’s training officer.

The award came after a busy year filled with challenges.

“[The team’s] enduring commitment to building the highest levels of crew, ship and family readiness allowed us to excel during an exceptionally challenging year that included the full Fleet Response Training Plan, a Board of Inspection and Survey Material Inspection, an Operational Reactor Safeguards Examination, and the first part of a deployment to the gulf region,” said Cloyd. “They are truly the finest men and women our nation has to offer — they are the reason I continue to serve.”

The accomplishment also marked a milestone in Ike’s return to the Fleet following her nearly four-year-long Refueling Complex Overhaul (RCOH) period that came to a close in 2005.

“Other Sailors will see the Battle “E” on the ship and know that we’ve done great things,” said Lt. Cmdr. Robert Klaszky, Ike’s damage control assistant.

Reflecting daily management of departmental and shipwide battle readiness requirements, competitive exercises are graded by the immediate superior in command (ISIC) or observers specifically assigned by the ISIC. The ISIC and ships coordinate with TYCOM and Afloat Training Group teams to take advantage of subject matter experts to grade competitive exercises during training and assessment visits. At the end of each competitive cycle, the TYCOM will compute the readiness levels of each ship based on reports received, and will assign relative values within each competitive grouping and for each major inspection.

“Congratulations to USS Dwight D. Eisenhower for your selection as Battle “E” winners,” Vice Adm. James Zortman, commander Naval Air Forces said. “As well for your hard work and demonstrated superior performance.”

Ike competed against five different carriers for the East Coast Battle “E” award.

Ike is the flagship for the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which includes its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing 7, and embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68); guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); and the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87).

The Ike CSG departed Naval Station Norfolk on Oct. 3, for a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and entered the Commander, 5th Fleet area of operations on Oct. 30.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27997

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Northern Arabian Sea from 4 to 26 February 2007, providing close air support and reconnaissance missions for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan, starting Feb. 4, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered in the Persian Gulf on 27 February 2007” (Ref. 76).

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 were awarded the “Jig Dog” Ramage Carrier and Carrier Air Wing Operational Excellence Award for 2006 on Feb. 27.

The Navywide award is selected jointly by Type Commanders (TYCOM) and is presented to the Carrier/Air Wing team with the best performance as an integrated unit.

Ike Commanding Officer Capt. Dan Cloyd credits the combined efforts of IKE and CVW-7, known aboard IKE as Team 769, for the accomplishment.

“It’s a Team 769 award and a recognition of our collective excellence,” said Cloyd. “We’re proud and honored to represent the Navy’s carrier air wing force.”

Sailors from the air wing are excited about the award, and grateful for the acknowledgement of a job well done.

“We worked some pretty long hours down there on the hangar bay, keeping those jets flying,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman (AW) Nicholas Warthen from the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131. “It’s a really good feeling knowing it got noticed.”

The award is a reflection of the progress the ship and air wing have made in their short time together, since the ship’s mid-life overhaul.

“I couldn’t be more proud,” said Capt. Scott Stearney, Commander, CVW-7. “I was thinking about where we were last year. We just got off our first at sea period where we integrated the ship and the air wing together.”

Sailors who saw the transition from separate entities to combined ship-air wing team have noted Team 769’s accomplishments with pride.

“Back when we first started going out, we were doing carrier qualifications and just launching jets constantly,” said Air Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW/SW) Jason Marr. “Now we’re able to handle cyclic ops, going anywhere from three to 23 planes, in good weather or bad weather.”

CVW-7 includes Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 “Tigertails,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 “Jolly Rogers,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 “Wildcats,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143 “Pukin’ Dogs,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83 “Rampagers,” Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron 140 “Patriots,” and Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) 5 “Nightdippers.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28468

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Persian Gulf from 27 February to 8 March 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered in the Northern Arabian Sea on 9 March 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Northern Arabian Sea from 9 to 14 March 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Persian Gulf on 15 March 2007” (Ref. 76).

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) held a 3-on-3 basketball tournament to raise money for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) on March 15.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society provides financial assistance in the form of interest-free loans and grants to Sailors and Marines in need.

The basketball tournament gave Sailors from Ike and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 a break from flight operations and an opportunity to get some exercise in support of a good cause.

“All contributions go back to the Sailors and Marines,” said Lt. Christopher Wood, Ike’s Air Department’s V-2 division officer and command NMCRS coordinator.

Organized on short notice, the coordinators put the word out that there was an opportunity to have fun for a good cause, and the crew responded in numbers.

“We wanted 32 teams and we got 32 teams,” said Lt. James Sultenfuss, tournament co-coordinator. “It was a great turnout.”

“I don’t get the chance to play ball like I used to, so every opportunity I get is great,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class (AW) Shawn Thorpe, “O-Town” team captain. “I’ve seen people get help before, so it’s good to be part of it.”

The same goes for the Sailors behind the scenes, coordinating the event.

“As long as it involves helping out, I take it personally,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Equipment 1st Class (AW) Patrick Emmanuel, tournament co-coordinator. “So does the crew. We never doubted there would be anything less than max participation.”

By taking donations from passersby and with widespread support from Ike’s departments and CVW-7 squadrons, the tournament is just one more step toward reaching the command goal of $75,000 and 100 percent participation. Sultenfuss said it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.

“We’re making money for NMCRS,” said Sultenfuss. “It’s also a great morale boost for the crew.”

In the end, Team “Gibbons,” comprised of Chief Information Systems Technician (SW/AW) Brian Rice, Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Devon Hamilton and Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class (SW) Hadriann Gibbons took the top prize, a $100 gift certificate for each team member. However, winning the prize wasn’t the goal of participating.

“It’s all about helping out,” said Rice. “It’s not about winning. It’s about getting out there for a good cause.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28360

Comedian Russell Peters performed his stand up routine in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) March 15, 2007.

Sponsored by the United Services Organization (USO), the comedy show offered Ike Sailors an opportunity to relax and laugh during deployment to the 5th Fleet area of operations (AOR).

Peters and fellow comedian Angelo Tsarouchas, who provided entertainment during the opening act, made the journey to perform as a way to show their appreciation for the work Ike Sailors are doing.

“It is the least I can do,” said Peters. “You all are protecting my freedom.”

Peters, who became the only Southeast Asian comic to ever sell out the famed Apollo Theater in New York City in April 2005, performed an hour-long routine, touching on differences in world culture.

He also brought Ike into the routine, joking about aspects of shipboard life. The crew appreciated the humor.

“I thought it was funny when he made fun of the executive officer,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Chris Phillips.

The routine was balanced, poking fun at a wide range of issues in modern living.

“I thought it was cool,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Damian Gomez. “Instead of making fun of just one person, he made fun of everybody.”

Besides performing, Peters, Tsarouchas and their entourage toured Ike spaces, ate meals with the crew and experienced shipboard living.

“I am really impressed with the crew,” said Tsarouchas. “Ike’s seen a lot of history.”

Watching the crew of an aircraft carrier operate was a new experience for the group. “This is my first time on an aircraft carrier,” said Peters. “It is an awesome, incredible spectacle.”

The group also had an opportunity to watch flight operations. “What a great experience,” said Tsarouchas. “I was really impressed watching those folks out on the flight deck. They’re so well organized. It changed the way I look at a military ship.”

Peters was impressed by Ike’s size. “Ike is deep,” said Peters. “Every time I thought we were on the bottom of the ship, there was always something more below us.”

In the end, the comedians were just happy to make the crew smile. “I’m thankful for the experience and opportunity to entertain the Navy,” said Tsarouchas.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28373

The Supply Department aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) received the Atlantic Fleet “Best of Class” designation for the 2006 Ship’s Store Retail and Service Excellence Award on March 23.

The “Best of Class” designation signifies a superior level of service beyond the normal service provided on other ships in Ike’s class.

The designation is a culmination of a year’s worth of accomplishment by S-3 Division.

“This award really is a testament to all of the hard work everyone in S-3 Division displays on a daily basis,” said Lt. Cmdr. Greg Lask, Ike’s principal assistant for services. “They are truly committed to providing everyone aboard Ike with the best service they can.”

The designation meant success by S-3 from top to bottom.

“We achieved excellence in all facets of what S-3 does,” said Senior Chief Ship’s Serviceman (SW/AW) Steven Robinson, S-3 Division leading chief petty officer. “Our barber shop performed, laundry, the retail side, our vending; everyone excelled.”

S-3 Division not only had to perform their jobs, keeping the shelves stocked and laundry clean, but had to maintain a connection with their customer base.

“Once you get nominated, inspectors come aboard to take surveys from the crew,” said Robinson. “Those surveys played a big role. We could have the best S-3 Division in the world, but if we don’t provide day-in, day-out customer service, we wouldn’t have won.”

It also evaluated other aspects of S-3 Division, besides the Ship’s Store. The barber shop, ship’s laundry and vending services all put up outstanding numbers, operating throughout the year with few setbacks.

“This deployment, the barber shop has given 25,000 haircuts, ship’s laundry has washed more than 700,000 pounds of bulk laundry, and we average 4,720 cans of soda per day,” said Robinson.

S-3 Division continues to charge ahead, vying to maintain their level of excellence.

“During this deployment, we’ve received $1.5 million in stock via underway replenishment,” said Robinson. “We left Norfolk with $2 million in inventory and to date we’ve generated $2.7 million in sales. All the profit is going to MWR and back to the Sailors.”

This has resulted in hard work for the Sailors responsible with keeping the shelves stocked and the vending machines full.

“Every morning and every evening after quarters we do break outs,” said Ship’s Serviceman 1st Class (SW/AW) Rachel Dunbar. “It’s an all-hands evolution; everyone in the division pitches in.”

Being designated as the best amongst their peers hasn’t stopped S-3 Division from continuing to strive for excellence.

“The simple fact of the matter is if you keep buying it, we’ll keep stocking it,” said Robinson.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28505

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted a massive military exercise in the Persian Gulf from 27 to 28 March 2007” (Ref. 76).

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) at sea April 9 to observe flight operations and the strike group concept.

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) at sea April 9 to observe flight operations and the strike group concept.

The group, led by Rep. Gene Taylor from the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, is visiting Ike Sailors and getting the chance to see them in their normal working environment to have better information about how the decisions they make back in Washington relate to IKE and her crew.

“We came out to see how we can be of assistance in the decisions we make in D.C.,” said Rep. Brad Ellsworth from the 8th District, Indiana. “We want Sailors to know how much everyone in Congress supports them.”

The representatives viewed flight and hangar bay operations and also had the opportunity to eat with Sailors on the mess decks.

“It’s a very exciting experience. Not everyone gets to see the flight deck,” said Taylor. “Sometimes it’s easy to forget the sacrifices these Americans make. You’ve got to get out and see the men and women who are at sea eight months at a time and let them know how hard they’re working.”

The congressmen hope to leave Ike Sailors with the impression that they fully support the crew and their mission, and that they will use the experience aboard Ike to aid them in making important decisions back in Washington.

“Although it was short, I hope the Sailors know that by making this trip out here we’re showing our support for them,” said Ellsworth. “It was an honor to visit everyone and let them know how we appreciate what they’re doing.”

Taylor and Ellsworth were joined by fellow Representatives Henry Johnson from the 4th District, Georgia, Kevin McCarthy from the 22nd District, California, Vern Buchanan from the 13th District, Florida; and Adrian Smith from the 3rd District, Nebraska.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28787

Fifty Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) completed the Chefs at Sea Apprenticeship Program after six months of dedication and hard work April 2, 2007.

The Chefs at Sea Program is designed to give Sailors the opportunity to take culinary classes while underway. The program is offered to all ships on the Atlantic Coast, as well as shore commands such as Guam, Okinawa, Sicily and Spain, to include host programs at the White House, Pentagon and Camp David.

The six-month program covered four categories: professional chef, sanitation, nutrition and supervision. It also gave Sailors a new perspective on how to cook a variety of food.

Sailors participating in the program earned college credits in addition to expanding their skill sets. This same course would have taken approximately three years if taken at an accredited college. The Chefs at Sea Program doesn’t just teach Sailors how to cook, but also what Navy culinary specialists can do as civilian chefs.

“I want to be a baker when I get out of the Navy,” said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Brandon Wright. “From taking this course, I learned how much money civilian chefs make, what they do, and how to go through the steps of becoming one."

Wright said the program also went over proper cooking temperatures and steaming methods that keep nutrients in vegetables, and how to cook a low-calorie or low-carb meal for diabetics or heart patients.

“I learned a lot and would recommend it to anyone,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Jerry Johnson.

Chef Denzel McCoy, instructor for the Chefs at Sea Program aboard Ike, said it was a great experience to teach Sailors aboard Ike.

“What other type of job lets me travel and see the world while helping others? It’s very fulfilling knowing I can help people advance in their career,” said McCoy.

After completion of the Chefs at Sea Program, with 29 college credits and a certificate from the American Culinary Federation, Ike’s culinary specialists are better prepared to serve their shipmates.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28792

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) at sea April 9 to observe flight operations and the strike group concept.

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) at sea April 9 to observe flight operations and the strike group concept.

The group, led by Rep. Gene Taylor from the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, is visiting Ike Sailors and getting the chance to see them in their normal working environment to have better information about how the decisions they make back in Washington relate to IKE and her crew.

“We came out to see how we can be of assistance in the decisions we make in D.C.,” said Rep. Brad Ellsworth from the 8th District, Indiana. “We want Sailors to know how much everyone in Congress supports them.”

The representatives viewed flight and hangar bay operations and also had the opportunity to eat with Sailors on the mess decks.

“It’s a very exciting experience. Not everyone gets to see the flight deck,” said Taylor. “Sometimes it’s easy to forget the sacrifices these Americans make. You’ve got to get out and see the men and women who are at sea eight months at a time and let them know how hard they’re working.”

The congressmen hope to leave Ike Sailors with the impression that they fully support the crew and their mission, and that they will use the experience aboard Ike to aid them in making important decisions back in Washington.

“Although it was short, I hope the Sailors know that by making this trip out here we’re showing our support for them,” said Ellsworth. “It was an honor to visit everyone and let them know how we appreciate what they’re doing.”

Taylor and Ellsworth were joined by fellow Representatives Henry Johnson from the 4th District, Georgia, Kevin McCarthy from the 22nd District, California, Vern Buchanan from the 13th District, Florida; and Adrian Smith from the 3rd District, Nebraska.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28787

Forty-five civilian guests visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) on April 25 as part of the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference (JCOC) where they got the opportunity to see various aspects of the ship, meet with Sailors and view flight operations.

JCOC is sponsored by the Department of Defense and is the oldest military public affairs program, having been held more than 72 times since its inception in 1948.

JCOC is a weeklong journey covering 18,000 miles to introduce civilians to members of the armed forces who carry out military operations in Southwest Asia and the Horn of Africa.

After landing aboard Ike in a C-2 Greyhound Carrier On-board Delivery (COD) aircraft they descended to Ike’s hangar bay by way of an aircraft elevator. The participants then split up into separate groups and were given a tour of the ship and the chance to eat lunch with Ike Sailors.

“It was great meeting the Sailors in person,” said Kathleen Cox, community program development manager of the Wal-Mart Foundation. “I’m deeply appreciative of all the service and sacrifice I’ve seen.”

The participants were also invited to Ike’s flight deck to witness flight operations and see the aircraft in action.

“The flight operations were just incredible,” said Denis McFarlane, chief executive officer of Infinitive. “Everyone seemed very well trained and knew exactly what they were doing. It’s very impressive to be in the presence of more than 5,000 professionals.”

The participants hope to leave Sailors with the great sense of appreciation they have for the ship and her crew before and heading to their next stop.

“I was so impressed with the men and women running this ship,” said Richard Karelitz, general counsel of the Kraft Group. “I wish more Americans could see what we saw today.”
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=29066

Following a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf /Arabian Gulf, sailors of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) can return to Norfolk, Va., proudly, knowing that they made a difference in the global war on terror, the ship’s commander said.

“I believe this crew understood its mission and has been more fulfilled than any previous deployment,” Navy Capt. Dan Cloyd told 45 civic and business leaders visiting the carrier today. “They know that what they did made a difference and saved lives every day.”

On Ike’s last day in the Persian Gulf /Arabian Gulf, on April 25, 2007, the aircraft carrier hosted educators, entrepreneurs and civic leaders who were participating in the Defense Department’s Joint Civilian Orientation Conference. The group is traveling in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility for a crash course in the capabilities of the U.S. military.

The nuclear-powered Nimitz-class “Ike” is part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, which has been providing support to American and coalition ground forces in Iraq and Afghanistan since the end of October.

The carrier also has taken part in maritime operations in the region by maintaining open channels for commerce, allowing freedom of the seas, and dealing with issues like piracy and human trafficking, Cloyd said.

Strike group commander Navy Rear Adm. Allen Myers told participants that the ship’s 5,000 sailors have provided support from the air and sea to CENTCOM, in addition to having boots on the ground in places like the Horn of Africa.

The 61 aircraft on the carrier have flown more than 2,000 combat sorties, dropped more than 150,000 pounds of ordnance, and continuously provided close-air support to troops and shows of force during operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

“As impressive as the ship is and as impressive as the aircraft are, it’s the sailors – the young men and women, America’s sons and daughters – who are the most impressive part of what we do here,” Myers said.

He was talking about sailors like Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Anthony, a nuclear electrician who spent two years in training before taking his first assignment on the Eisenhower.

Anthony works on the carrier’s two nuclear reactors that not only keep the ship moving in excess of 30 knots, they provide enough energy to keep the carrier in operation for 18 years without refueling. The reactors also provide the steam that catapults aircraft from its deck at nearly 170 miles per hour.

“Our job operating the reactors is critical,” Anthony said. And while the separation from his family is difficult, he said it’s a small sacrifice to make for the nation.

For Seaman Zack Schutze, who serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate, being in such a remote area makes it easy to lose sight of the true impact the crew has in the war.

Schutze’s job is to help man the circular booth high over the ship’s deck to closely monitor and track each aircraft that the carrier launches and recovers. “With an average of 75 flight missions per day,” he said, “our work has to have a big impact on operations.”

The carrier is a national asset that has the capability to strategically and operationally effect what’s going on in the region, said operations officer Navy Cmdr. Mike Baker. “We are 4.5 acres of sovereign U.S. territory,” he said. “And with 70 percent of the world covered in water, we can play a role in operations nearly everywhere.”

Members of the crew repeatedly told their guests how much they enjoy their jobs and the positive impact they are having on the world.

One “Ike” catapult officer, who was temporarily reassigned from his duties as a pilot, told Joint Civilian Orientation Conference participants that he enjoys his job just as much today as when he joined the Navy eight years ago. “This job is awesome,” the “shooter” said. “I love it, and that will never change.”
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=32949

USS Eisenhower, CVW 7 Conduct Flight Operations in Support of Maritime Security Operations
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/photos/index.html
_________________

U. S. Navy Veteran
August 1977 to July 1983

Yoeman Second Class,
with student pilot's license

USS Eisenhower, CVW 7 Conduct Flight Operations in Support of Maritime Security Operations
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/photos/index.html

090426-N-9988F-135 ARABIAN SEA (April 26, 2009) – Aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) operates in the Arabian Sea, displaying signal flags that read, “IKE, CVN 69, GR8R EACH DAY.” The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is underway on a regular scheduled deployment supporting the on-going rotation of forward-deployed forces to support the maritime security operations and operate in international waters across the globe. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa Medina/Released

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090428-N-9988F-815 ARABIAN SEA (April 28, 2009) – Three U.S. Navy ships sharing the same hull number, aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), and guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) sail in formation in the Arabian Sea. The three ships are underway on a regularly scheduled deployment supporting the on-going rotation of forward-deployed forces to support the maritime security operations and operate in international waters across the globe. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa Medina/Released

http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/photos/hi/090428-N-9988F-815.jpg

http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/photos/index.html

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Persian Gulf from 15 March to 28 April 2007. On April 25, Ike’s last day in the Persian Gulf /Arabian Gulf, the aircraft carrier hosted educators, entrepreneurs and civic leaders who were participating in the Defense Department’s Joint Civilian Orientation Conference. The group is traveling in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility for a crash course in the capabilities of the U.S. military.
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=32949

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway period on 29 April 2007 not reported” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Arabian Sea on 30 April 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Red Sea on 1 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Red Sea from 1 to 3 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) left the 5th Fleet operations area, passing through the Suez Canal to begin the westward trek home 4 May 2007, making her 12th Suez Canal transit and the US Navy’s 124th Suez Canal transit” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Mediterranean Sea on 4 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Mediterranean Sea from 4 to 11 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) made a port call at Lisbon, Portugal on 12 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) made one final four-day port visit in Lisbon, Portugal, from May 12-16.

While in port Sailors had the chance to partake in Morale, Welfare and Recreation-sponsored tours, participate in community relations (COMREL) projects, and host U.S. Ambassador to Portugal Alfred Hoffman Jr. and other visitors for a tour. The port call gave Ike Sailors the opportunity to relax one more time in another country before pulling into homeport, Norfolk.

“The port visit was great; I had a lot of fun,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Derek Pomer. “What I enjoyed the most was just being able to relax on the beach.”

MWR once again offered a variety of tours for Sailors to enjoy, including wine tasting, hiking and the chance to go shopping in downtown Lisbon.

“This had to be my favorite port visit so far,” said Postal Clerk Seaman Apprentice Levi Houston. “The downtown shopping tour was cool. We got to see a lot of the city and do some shopping.”

The religious ministries department sponsored COMREL projects for Sailors wishing to volunteer by teaching children, assisting orphans, helping the handicapped, working with food banks, and feeding the elderly.

“I participated in a COMREL project that had us helping people move furniture out of buildings so they could start their businesses,” said Religious Program Specialist Seaman (SW/AW) Jayson Billstone. “It felt good making a good impression on these people and really just being able to help them.”

Several Sailors also got together with local Lisbon military personnel to have fun and play a game of soccer.

“The soccer game went really well,” said Personnel Specialist Seaman Carlos Guerra. “We all worked together as a team, and made some new friends as well.”

With the beautiful city of Lisbon and its scenery behind them, Sailors began the final leg of their deployment home.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=29447

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) entered the Atlantic on 17 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

“USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in Atlantic from 17 to 22 May 2007” (Ref. 76).

Pilots and air crew from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 embarked on board the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) returned from a nearly eight-month deployment May 21 and 22.

More than 1,600 Sailors from the air wing will return aboard Ike on May 23.

Commanded by Capt. Scott “Sterno” Stearney, CVW-7 flew more than 11,000 sorties and more than 31,500 hours, providing both air support for multinational coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq and maritime security in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility (AOR).

CVW-7’s 233-day deployment began Oct. 3, when the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG) left its homeport of Norfolk, and headed east toward the Mediterranean Sea.

After transiting the Suez Canal and chopping into the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR on Oct. 30, CVW-7 began flying combat missions from the North Arabian Sea into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) on Nov. 6.

Over the next six months, the Eisenhower CSG transited repeatedly between the North Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf to support the troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). In late February, Ike was joined in the theater by the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) 3. The strike groups conducted a dual-carrier exercise in the Persian Gulf demonstrating multidimensional task force operations.

“I’m extremely proud of our nearly 2,000 men and women of CVW-7. We were successful in supporting our coalition and regional allies flying missions in support of U.S. and multinational ground troops in both OIF and OEF. The hard work of the Sailors of CVW-7 helped safe lives everyday,” said Stearney.

During the extended deployment, the two F/A-18 Hornet squadrons, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 “Wildcats” and VFA-83 “Rampagers,” and the two F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons, VFA-103 “Jolly Rogers” and VFA-143 “Pukin’ Dogs,” expended more than 140 laser-guided bombs and Joint Direct Attack Munitions, and performed nearly 70 strafing runs using 20 mm cannons on numerous targets in support of ground forces.

This support for the global war on terrorism was in addition to the essential missions of strike group defense and maritime security operations. Of note, this deployment marked the first for VFA-103 and VFA-143 since their transition from the F-14 Tomcat to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

Command and control of all aircraft transiting in and out of overland missions, as well as all aircraft providing strike group defense and conducting traditional maritime security operations was professionally handled by the E-2C Hawkeyes of the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125 “Tigertails.”

Dominance of the electromagnetic spectrum of both Iraq and Afghanistan was conducted simultaneously by the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140 “Patriots,” a first for any EA-6B Prowler squadron.

In addition to providing the strike group’s anti-submarine and anti-surface defense, as well as combat search and rescue, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 conducted eight replenishments at sea and logistics flights into almost a dozen countries totaling more than 500,000 pounds of cargo and 900 passengers delivered.

This fleet support was in addition to the impressive performance of the Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 “Rawhides.” Their two C-2 Greyhound aircraft transported more than 1.2 million pounds of cargo and nearly 5,000 passengers to and from Ike.

Having traveled more than 69,000 nautical miles, conducted operations in support of three campaigns, and visiting four foreign ports, CVW-7 began its transition home on May 21 with the fly-off of VRC-40. On May 22, air crews returned to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Va., Jacksonville, Fla., and Oak Harbor, Wash.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=29568

“I’m extremely proud of our nearly 6,000 men and women of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group,” said Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, Commander CSG 8. “We were successful in supporting our coalition and regional allies by strengthening our collective efforts to keep the seas free, safe and secure for trade and commerce, conducting maritime security operations and flying missions in support of U.S. and multinational ground troops in both OIF and OEF.

"Ike CSG's deployment reflected the speed, agility, persistent presence and joint/combined warfighting capabilities that a carrier strike group provides in support of our national defense.”

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 flew approximately 12,000 sorties and has put in more than 31,400 flight hours since deployment began, providing air support for multinational coalition forces on the ground in support of various operations in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command AOR.

“We supported joint coalition forces both in Iraq and Afghanistan, not only with kinetic effects, such as precision guided weapons and 20 mm cannon fire, but also with essential non-kinetic support through show of force and the work of the EA-6B, helicopter and E-2C squadrons,” said Lt. Dale Gregory, CVW-7 operations staff officer. “Throughout our deployment, we have been an essential part, whether that be in support of troops on the ground or in our mere presence at sea, global war on [terrorism].”

The guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) supported MSO throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR, from the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. Anzio participated in 32 compliant boardings, demonstrating our nation's commitment to maintaining international sea lines of communications open to all mariners, free from the threats of piracy, smugglers and terrorists. Anzio's boarding teams provided both local fishermen and merchants with fuel, food and medical care to ensure their safety and spread a sense of cooperation to fellow mariners.

While deployed to the Central Command AOR working for Combined Task Forces 150 and 152, the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) participated in multiple pulse operations across the AOR.

These pulse operations focused on building a comprehensive recognized maritime picture in support of national and coalition tasking in numerous regions, to include the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Horn of Africa. Ramage conducted more than 40 approach and assist visits, three boardings, more than 100 maritime-awareness calls and 13 coordinated maritime-awareness calls.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) successfully executed Exercise Neon Falcon, a bilateral exercise between the United States and Royal Bahraini navies.

The exercise was a vital step toward the chief of Naval Operation’s goal of an international “1,000-ship navy.” Additionally, Mason, USS Whirlwind (PC 11), and Bahraini ships participated in extensive in-port and at-sea exercises designed to flex the warfighting capabilities of both navies.

A critical part in supporting sustained operations are underway replenishments (UNREP). From bringing to the ship everything from jet parts to food to fuel, an UNREP is essential. USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) completed 36 UNREPs, taking on more than 8,000 pallets of supplies and approximately 21,000,000 gallons of JP-5.

"The underway replenishment operations are critical to keeping Eisenhower Strike Group on-station and combat-ready," said Ike ship's bos'n, CWO3 Lyedell Gibson.

Boosting morale and keeping Ike Sailors in touch with their loved ones, the ship’s post office and mail are very important to Ike and her mission. During deployment, Ike's postal clerks brought on more than 300,000 pounds of mail.

Another division tasked with keeping the lines of communication open is Combat Systems, CS-3 Division.

Since deployment began, there were approximately 6,800,000 e-mails sent off the ship and approximately 7,300,000 e-mails sent to the ship.

"I think the techs in CS-3 Division are amazing," said CWO3 Ken Kipler, CS-3 Division officer. "They have directly impacted the mission of the strike group by ensuring that when the top leaders have had to make decisions, they had all the required information at their fingertips and the ability to communicate that decision over multiple communications paths."

Sailors have many opportunities to stay in touch with their loved ones at home, including use of the United Through Reading (UTR) program, which was established to provide a way for Sailors to comfort their children during an extended absence, such as deployment.

Ike broke the record set by the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for the most participation in UTR, producing a record number of 2,066 messages during a single cruise.

Food Service Division also played a big part in keeping the crew happy. In eight months, Ike Sailors have gone through 45,780 gallons of milk, 633,120 eggs, 155,189 pounds of ground beef and 238,970 pounds of chicken. Food Service Division served a total of 3,190,211 meals to the crew.

"We have a lot of pride in preparing the quality food for the crew,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Jerry Johnson. “We do our best to make sure everybody is happy with the food we serve. It's been a very challenging experience serving everyone while underway, but also a very rewarding one."

Looking back on the cruise, Ike Sailors reflect on some of the best experiences they’ve had.

“This was my first deployment,” said Storekeeper Seaman Shannon Gray. “It was really challenging, especially dealing with such a large crew. I really enjoyed all the ports we visited and experiencing new cultures. I also realize how much I have grown from the experience.”

Ike Sailors also had the opportunity to take part in a Navy tradition when the ship conducted a “crossing the line” ceremony to commemorate the ship’s crossing of the equator.

“What surprised me the most was when we crossed the equator,” said Yeoman Seaman Eric Tyson. “My dad is a Shellback, and I am really glad that I got to follow in his footsteps and become one myself.”

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters visited Ike, bringing great basketball and entertainment to Sailors.

“This was a great cruise for so many reasons,” said Damage Controlman 3rd Class (SW) Jon Gerringer. “I loved it when we had the Harlem Globetrotters on board. I had never seen them before and they were great.”

“I believe this team excelled at every mission they were assigned. Our Sailors, 70 percent of whom had never deployed before, are the most inspiring men and women I’ve ever served with,” said Capt. Dan Cloyd, commanding officer of Dwight D. Eisenhower.

“Looking back on the past eight months we know we’ve made a difference, that we saved lives every day and that we contributed significantly to the security and stability of uniquely important and remarkable parts of the world. We also know that our families helped make this excellence possible -- we can’t thank them enough for their sacrifices and support. It’ll be great to be together with them again,” Cloyd added.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?st

“On 23 May 2007, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) with CVW-7 embarked arrived Norfolk, Va., with nearly 6,000 Sailors from Eisenhower (Ike) Carrier Strike Group’s (CSG) ships and aircraft squadrons returned home after successfully completing an extended deployment of almost eight months, ending her 10th Mediterranean Sea deployment (17th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet and fifth Arabian Sea/Gulf (Persian Gulf) and 2nd Indian Ocean deployment (off the Somali coast) in support of her 1st Maritime Security Operations (MSO), her 1st Operation Enduring Freedom and 1st Operation Iraqi Freedom on the US Navy’s 83rd Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945, operating with the 5th Fleet and Central Command. Underway from Norfolk, Va. on 3 October 2006, “Ike” conducted operations in the Atlantic from 3 to 13 October 2006; entered the Med on the 14th remaining underway in the Med from 14 to 16; visiting Naples, Italy from 17th to 20th . In addition to the many liberty prospects in Naples, the port visit provided hundreds of Italian and American citizens in the area a chance to tour the aircraft carrier and attend a reception held in the ship’s hangar bay and hosted by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe Adm. Harry Ulrich, enabling the Sailors to share a piece of the U.S. Navy with the Italian community. During his welcoming remarks at the reception, Rear Adm. Al Myers, commander, Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, expressed gratitude to the citizens of Naples for their hospitality and thanked the Italian community for their enduring friendship. “As partners, Italy and the United States work closely together with other regional allies to strengthen our efforts to keep the sea free and safe for trade and commerce,” said Myers. Entering Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Europe/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet’s area of responsibility in early October, Ike CSG began planning theater security cooperation engagements and maritime security operations with the militaries of Italy, Cyprus, Bosnia, Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Romania. Dwight D. Eisenhower conducted operations in the Mediterranean Sea, her 16th voyage in the Med, from 21 to 24, making a port call at Limassol, Cyprus from 25 to 27, entering the Med on the 28th, remaining until the 29th when she made ready for her 11th transit of the Suez Canal on October 30th, making the US Navy’s 123rd Suez Canal transit, entering the Red Sea on her eighth Red Sea voyage in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, entering the Gulf of Aden on the 2nd prior to entering the Arabian Sea on the 3rd, during which time, show host Montel Williams visited Dwight D. Eisenhower, "Ike," Dec. 3 for an overnight visit in the Persian Gulf to bring families closer together and to give Sailors a chance to send warm holiday greetings to the people who support them from home. Ike remained in the Arabian Sea until the 5th. As reported on 6 December 200, Trees for Troops started in Columbus, Ohio, when FedEx joined forces with the Ohio Christmas Tree Association’s “Operation Evergreen” to donate more than 200 Christmas trees to deployed service members. The Christmas trees were set up on the mess decks and decorated by ship crew members to bring a sense of home to Ike. Ike commenced Operation Enduring Freedom missions in support of ground troops in Afghanistan in the Northern Arabian Sea from 6 November to 10 December 2006. CVW-7 began conducting Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) missions Nov. 6, and after nine days of operations, Eisenhower-based aircraft flew 190 sorties, coordinating closely with coalition forces to counter anti-coalition militants, their movements and attacks, and to make a difference in providing for the safety and security of the people of Afghanistan. “We are really excited and proud to be able to support ground combat operations,” said Cmdr. William Koyama, executive officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83. “IKE air power is making a difference for ISAF soldiers. On one of these missions, we provided armed support as ground troops tried to MEDEVAC (medical evacuation) a wounded Soldier in close proximity to the enemy. In another case, one of our F/A-18C Hornets dropped all its ordnance to support Soldiers ambushed and pinned down in the open. As we reached a low fuel state and handed off to another section of aircraft before leaving, the controller on the ground thanked us and said, ‘You are surely angels on our shoulders.’ I have never done a more meaningful flight in the Navy.” The air wing has expended Guided Bomb Unit (GBU) 12 bombs, a general-purpose, laser guided 500-pound bomb; GBU-38 bombs, a general-purpose Global Positioning System (GPS) guided 500-pound bomb; as well as 20 mm rounds from M61A1 and M61A2 Gatling guns on enemy positions. “Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA), 143, the ‘Pukin’ Dogs,’ are excited to be able to support the OEF and ISAF operations with our new jets and their capabilities as part of CVW-7 and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower team,” said Cmdr. Jim Nichols, commanding officer of VFA-143. “Our air crew and Sailors have worked hard over the last year to prepare for this moment, and they are exceeding all expectations. Sailors Ike took a break in the Arabian Sea to participate in a swim call Nov. 28. More than 1,850 Sailors leaped from Ike’s Elevator 3, 27 feet above the warm salt water and then swam to the aft stern dock. Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5’s and Ike’s Search and Rescue (SAR) swimmers maintained a watchful eye and helpful hand in the water, while members of deck and engineering departments manned rigid hull inflatable boats. Senior enlisted advisors from throughout the Middle East area of responsibility visited Ike,” Dec. 3 to talk with Sailors and experience life at sea. The visit was an opportunity for senior members of each branch of service to help strengthen the bond between the carrier and the troops on the ground. “It bridges the gap,” said Army Master Sgt. Steven Gillespie, Combined Joint Task Force 76’s Joint Visitors Bureau non-commissioned officer-in-charge. “Sailors get to see the Soldiers. I’ve gotten to talk to some Sailors and tell them what the Soldiers are doing in Afghanistan and how they [Sailors] are helping us.” Dwight D. Eisenhower entered the Persian Gulf from 11 December 2006. The world famous Harlem Globetrotters visited Dwight D. Eisenhower Dec. 11-13, bringing great basketball and entertainment to Ike Sailors deployed in the Persian Gulf. Priding themselves on being “Ambassadors of Goodwill,” the Harlem Globetrotters have entertained more than 123 million people in more than 100 different countries. “A Globetrotter is a great basketball player, a skilled entertainer, a charismatic individual, one who has integrity, and one who is an ambassador of goodwill,” said Globetrotters power forward Eugene “Killer” Edgerson. “It’s not only about representing ourselves and basketball, but also the United States of America.” Dwight D. Eisenhower commenced Operation Iraq Freedom on 12 to 21 December 2006 operating in the Persian Gulf. U.S. Central Command Air Forces officials released the airpower summary for Dec. 13 noting 16 Air Force, Navy and RAF ISR aircraft flew missions in support of operations in Iraq. Navy and Air Force fighter aircraft performed in non-traditional ISR roles with their electro-optical and infrared sensors. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa, Jr. visited Sailors underway in the Fifth Fleet Area of Operations (AOR) Dec. 21 to bring holiday greetings and to thank the Sailors for the sacrifices they are made in the ship’s hangar bay. Dwight D. Eisenhower visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 22 to 26 December 2006. Their stops in the Persian Gulf also the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68), before continuing on to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Sailors enjoyed some time off as well as a chance to experience a foreign culture during a five-day port visit to Jebel Ali. While in Jebel Ali, crew members had the opportunity to sightsee in nearby Dubai. Some opted for one of many Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) organized tours and still others ventured out to explore the glamorous Middle Eastern city. Dwight D. Eisenhower returned to the Persian Gulf on the 27th, arriving in Northern Arabian Sea on the 28th December 2006. CNO, MCPON Visited Naval Support Activity Bahrain on a tour of U.S. Navy assets in the region hosted an All Hands call with more than 500 Sailors and Department of Defense personnel assigned to the nearly 80 different commands based at Naval Support Activity Bahrain December 27th. Two Soldiers deployed to the Combined Air and Space Operations Center (CAOC) in Al Udeid, Qatar, have joined the crew aboard Dwight D. Eisenhower Dec. 31 as Ground Liaison Officers (GLOs). Maj. Dan Collins, and Sgt. 1st Class Richard Elias, from the 4th Battlefield Coordination Detachment, Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, began their tour Aug. 29 as GLOs with the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). They spent two months performing their duties aboard Enterprise before IKE entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Oct. 30, to relieve Enterprise during regularly scheduled deployments. Ike Commanding Officer, Capt. Dan Cloyd, watches from auxiliary control as a wave crashes alongside the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) during an underway replenishment January 4, 2007. As reported on 4 January 2007, the E-7 exams during January commenced and the E-4, E-5 and E-6 exams will take place in March. Dwight D. Eisenhower conducted operations in the Northern Arabian Sea from 28 December to 5 January 2007. Forty-three Sailors aboard Dwight D. Eisenhower were awarded their warfare pins at a mass pinning ceremony held Jan. 6. Ten Sailors earned their Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist (EAWS) designation, and 33 earned their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) designation. The EAWS/ESWS pin signifies a high level of professional skill, knowledge and experience in their respective warfare area. Dwight D. Eisenhower operations not reported from 6 to 8 January 2007. Ship’s Vision: Ike’s Plan for today and tomorrow – 9 January 2007. Dwight D. Eisenhower conducted operations off the Somali coast, Indian Ocean from 8 to 9 January 2007, with U.S. Air Force AC-130 gunships strikingal Qaeda targets in Somalia on the 8th. The operation allegedly hit al Qaeda concentrations in the southern part of the country, but Pentagon officials did not comment. The U.S. 5th Fleet moved Dwight D. Eisenhower into the waters off Somalia in an effort to capture al Qaeda terrorists attempting to flee the country, a 5th Fleet spokesman said. United Nations-recognized Somali government officials said the strikes were aimed at al Qaeda terrorists who planned the attacks against the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998. The Ethiopian military entered Somalia Dec. 24 with the mission of neutralizing the Council of Islamic Courts, a Muslim extremist group that took power in the Somali capital of Mogadishu. The Ethiopian forces took the capital in 10 days and terrorists and their sympathizers allegedly moved south toward the border with Kenya to escape. More U.S. ships are moved in to the waters off Somalia to reinforce the maritime interdiction effort there, said U.S. 5th Fleet officials. “Due to rapidly developing events in Somalia, U.S. Central Command has tasked Dwight D. Eisenhower to join USS Bunker Hill, USS Ramage, USS Anzio and USS Ashland to support ongoing maritime security operations off the coast of Somalia,” said Navy Lt. Cmdr. Charlie Brown, a spokesman for 5th Fleet in Bahrain. The ships will stop vessels and search them for al Qaeda terrorists attempting to escape from Somalia, officials said. Press reports said the AC-130 attacks hit an area called Ras Kamboni, a heavily forested area near the Kenyan border. The area is allegedly a terror training base. Press reports said there were casualties in the area, and Somali officials said they had captured 28 suspected al Qaeda terrorists. Sailors on board and throughout the Navy had the opportunity to give their minds a proper workout by participating in the Navy Professional Reading Program announced on 21 January 2007. The Navy Professional Reading Program, introduced in October by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen, was created to encourage independent reading which contributes to education, development, personal and professional growth, and the stimulation of critical thinking. The books are selected by the Naval War College. Dwight D. Eisenhower off the Somali coast, Indian Ocean from 8 to 29 January 2007. IKE reached the halfway point in their deployment Jan. 28, during which time CVW-7 has flown 5,839 sorties and has put in more than 15,489 flight hours since the deployment began, providing air support for multi-national coalition ground forces in support of various operations in U.S. Central Command’s AOR. A critical part in supporting operations is underway replenishments (UNREP). So far, IKE has completed 18 UNREPs. From bringing everything from jet parts to food to fuel to the ship, an UNREP is essential. IKE has taken on more than 19,000 pallets of supplies. “I think the most memorable rapped g at sea was with USS Anzio (CG 68). We provided more than 300,000 gallons of JP-5 to them when they really needed it,” said Ship’s Boatswain Chief Warrant Officer Lyedell Gibson. “We made it look like we were one of the combat logistics force ships that do these types of refuelings routinely.” The ship’s post office keeps Ike Sailors in touch with their loved ones, and has taken on about 235,000 pounds of mail. “Two days before we pulled into Jebel Ali, we received the largest amount of mail to date, around 41,000 pounds,” said Postal Clerk 2nd Class Adrien Dicks of Supply Department’s S-12 division. “It took about a week to fully process it out to the crew.” Food Service Division has also played a big part in keeping the crew happy. In the past four months, the carrier’s personnel have consumed 12,095 gallons of milk, 340,920 eggs, 51,000 pounds of ground beef, 106,851 pounds of chicken and 195,624 cups of cereal. Sailors from Ike and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 participated in a historic reenlistment ceremony of astronomical proportions. Astronaut and Capt. Michael Lopez-Alegria, commander of the International Space Station (ISS), presided over the ceremony from space Jan. 29, via video teleconference (VTC), along with astronaut and Cmdr. Suni Williams, flight engineer. Sixteen Sailors became the first from Ike to be reenlisted by an officer from NASA in a ceremony which crossed Earth’s atmosphere to the ISS orbiting 200 miles above. The VTC included the ISS, NASA, Ike, and a Norfolk, Va., site for families to participate. Dwight D. Eisenhower left Somali’s coast to return to the Persian Gulf region on 30 January 2007, underway in the Arabian Sea from 31 January to 3 February 2007. Sailors aboard Ike took time out from their deployment operations to enjoy a steel beach picnic Feb. 13 on the ship's flight deck. On Feb. 23, Dwight D. Eisenhower broke the record set by the Enterprise-class aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for the most participation in the United Through Reading (UTR) program, producing a record number of 1,671 messages during a single cruise. United Through Reading is a quality of life program for military families which helps keep parents and children connected, by videotaps of the deployed service member reading aloud to their children. As reported on 25 February 2006, The Dwight D. Eisenhower earned the Commander Naval Air Force Carrier Battle Efficiency “E” award for the East Coast, calendar year 2006. Dwight D. Eisenhower underway in the Northern Arabian Sea from 4 to 26 February 2007, providing close air support and reconnaissance missions for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan, starting Feb. 4, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. CVW-7 flew more than 6,900 sorties and logged more than 18,000 flight hours since deployment began or an additional 1,061 sorties and 2,511 flight hours since last reported during the half way of the deployment. Its missions have included providing air power support for multi-national forces on the ground in support of operations in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Area of Responsibility and contributing to security and stability in the region. “The ability of the carrier to move quickly within the 5th fleet area of operations and provide support wherever needed demonstrates the flexibility that this team brings to the theater,” said Rear Adm. Al Myers, commander of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG). “We’re here to do our part, alongside our multi-national partners, promoting peace, stability and security for the people of Afghanistan.” ISAF is comprised of more than 35,000 troops, with contributions from 37 nations. Dwight D. Eisenhower earned the Commander Naval Air Force Carrier Battle Efficiency “E” award for the East Coast, calendar year 2006. Ike and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 were awarded the “Jig Dog” Ramage Carrier and Carrier Air Wing Operational Excellence Award for 2006 on Feb. 27. The Navywide award is selected jointly by Type Commanders (TYCOM) and is presented to the Carrier/Air Wing team with the best performance. In late February, Ike was joined in the theater by the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) 3. The strike groups conducted a dual-carrier exercise in the Persian Gulf demonstrating multidimensional task force operations. Dwight D. Eisenhower underway in the Persian Gulf from 27 February to 8 March 2007, underway in the Northern Arabian Sea from 9 to 14 March 2007, entering the Persian Gulf on 15 March 2007, during which time Comedian Russell Peters performed his stand up routine in the hangar bay on the same day. Ike held a 3-on-3 basketball tournament to raise money for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) on March 15. By taking donations from passersby and with widespread support from Ike’s departments and CVW-7 squadrons, the tournament is just one more step toward reaching the command goal of $75,000 and 100 percent participation. Sultenfuss said it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved. Dwight D. Eisenhower received the Atlantic Fleet “Best of Class” designation for the 2006 Ship’s Store Retail and Service Excellence Award on March 23. The “Best of Class” designation signifies a superior level of service beyond the normal service provided on other ships in Ike’s class. The designation is a culmination of a year’s worth of accomplishment by S-3 Division. Dwight D. Eisenhower conducted a massive military exercise in the Persian Gulf from 27 to 28 March 2007. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives visited Dwight D. Eisenhower at sea April 9th to observe flight operations and the strike group concept. The group, led by Rep. Gene Taylor from the 4th Congressional District of Mississippi, is visiting Ike Sailors and getting the chance to see them in their normal working environment to have better information about how the decisions they make back in Washington relate to IKE and her crew. Sailors aboard Ike completed the Chefs at Sea Apprenticeship Program after six months of dedication and hard work April 2. The Chefs at Sea Program is designed to give Sailors the opportunity to take culinary classes while underway. The program is offered to all ships on the Atlantic Coast, as well as shore commands such as Guam, Okinawa, Sicily and Spain, to include host programs at the White House, Pentagon and Camp David. The six-month program covered four categories: professional chef, sanitation, nutrition and supervision. It also gave Sailors a new perspective on how to cook a variety of food. Forty-five civilian guests visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower on April 25 as part of the Joint Civilian Orientation Conference (JCOC) where they got the opportunity to see various aspects of the ship, meet with Sailors and view flight operations. JCOC is sponsored by the Department of Defense and is the oldest military public affairs program, having been held more than 72 times since its inception in 1948. JCOC is a weeklong journey covering 18,000 miles to introduce civilians to members of the armed forces who carry out military operations in Southwest Asia and the Horn of Africa. After landing aboard Ike in a C-2 Greyhound Carrier On-board Delivery (COD) aircraft they descended to Ike’s hangar bay by way of an aircraft elevator. The participants then split up into separate groups and were given a tour of the ship and the chance to eat lunch with Ike Sailors. As announced by the CO April 25, 2007, “sailors of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower can return to Norfolk, Va., proudly, knowing that they made a difference in the global war on terror, the ship’s commander said. “I believe this crew understood its mission and has been more fulfilled than any previous deployment,” Navy Capt. Dan Cloyd told 45 civic and business leaders visiting the carrier today. “They know that what they did made a difference and saved lives every day.” Strike group commander Navy Rear Adm. Allen Myers told participants that the ship’s 5,000 sailors have provided support from the air and sea to CENTCOM, in addition to having boots on the ground in places like the Horn of Africa. The 61 aircraft on the carrier have flown more than 2,000 combat sorties, dropped more than 150,000 pounds of ordnance, and continuously provided close-air support to troops and shows of force during operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. “As impressive as the ship is and as impressive as the aircraft are, it’s the sailors – the young men and women, America’s sons and daughters – who are the most impressive part of what we do here,” Myers said. “With an average of 75 flight missions per day,” Seaman Zack Schutze an aviation boatswain’s mate said, “our work has to have a big impact on operations.” Schutze’s job is to help man the circular booth high over the ship’s deck to closely monitor and track each aircraft that the carrier launches and recovers. Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Anthony, a nuclear electrician who spent two years in training before taking his first assignment on the Eisenhower, works on the carrier’s two nuclear reactors that not only keep the ship moving in excess of 30 knots, they provide enough energy to keep the carrier in operation for 18 years without refueling. The reactors also provide the steam that catapults aircraft from its deck at nearly 170 miles per hour. “Our job operating the reactors is critical,” Anthony said. And while the separation from his family is difficult, he said it’s a small sacrifice to make for the nation. The carrier is a national asset that has the capability to strategically and operationally effect what’s going on in the region, said operations officer Navy Cmdr. Mike Baker. “We are 4.5 acres of sovereign U.S. territory,” he said. “And with 70 percent of the world covered in water, we can play a role in operations nearly everywhere.” Members of the crew repeatedly told their guests how much they enjoy their jobs and the positive impact they are having on the world. One “Ike” catapult officer, who was temporarily reassigned from his duties as a pilot, told Joint Civilian Orientation Conference participants that he enjoys his job just as much today as when he joined the Navy eight years ago. “This job is awesome,” the “shooter” said. “I love it, and that will never change.” Dwight D. Eisenhower underway in the Persian Gulf from 15 March to 25 April 2007. Ike with CVW-7 provided support to American and coalition ground forces in Iraq and Afghanistan since the end of October, taken part in maritime operations in the region by maintaining open channels for commerce, allowing freedom of the seas, and dealing with issues like piracy and human trafficking, Capt. Dan Cloyd said. On its last day in the Arabian Gulf, the aircraft carrier hosted educators, entrepreneurs and civic leaders who were participating in the Defense Department’s Joint Civilian Orientation Conference. The group is traveling in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility for a crash course in the capabilities of the U.S. military. More than 1,600 Sailors from the air wing will return aboard Ike on May 23. Commanded by Capt. Scott “Sterno” Stearney, CVW-7 flew more than 11,000 sorties and more than 31,500 hours, providing both air support for multinational coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq and maritime security in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility (AOR). CVW-7’s 233-day deployment began Oct. 3, when the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG) left its homeport of Norfolk, and headed east toward the Mediterranean Sea. Three U.S. Navy ships sharing the same hull number on April 28, 2007, aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), and guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) sail in formation in the Arabian Sea. Photos. Dwight D. Eisenhower underway in Arabian Sea on 30 April 2007, underway in Red Sea from 1 to 3 May 2007, her ninth voyage (1st one on a deployment). Dwight D. Eisenhower left the 5th Fleet operations area, passing through the Suez Canal to begin the westward trek home 4 May 2007, making her 12th Suez Canal transit and the US Navy’s 124th Suez Canal transit, entering the Mediterranean Sea on the 4th, her 17th voyage in the Med, in which 9 were deployments on the US Navy’s 123rd and 124th Suez Canal transit. Underway in Mediterranean Sea from 4 to 11 May 2007, visiting Lisbon, Portugal from 12 to 16 May 2007. Pilots and air crew from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 embarked on board Dwight D. Eisenhower returned from a nearly eight-month deployment May 21 and 22. Commanded by Capt. Scott “Sterno” Stearney, CVW-7 flew more than 11,000 sorties and more than 31,500 hours, providing both air support for multinational coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq and maritime security in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility (AOR). “I’m extremely proud of our nearly 2,000 men and women of CVW-7. We were successful in supporting our coalition and regional allies flying missions in support of U.S. and multinational ground troops in both OIF and OEF. The hard work of the Sailors of CVW-7 helped safe lives everyday,” said Stearney. During the extended deployment, the two F/A-18 Hornet squadrons, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 “Wildcats” and VFA-83 “Rampagers,” and the two F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons, VFA-103 “Jolly Rogers” and VFA-143 “Pukin’ Dogs,” expended more than 140 laser-guided bombs and Joint Direct Attack Munitions, and performed nearly 70 strafing runs using 20 mm cannons on numerous targets in support of ground forces. This support for the global war on terrorism was in addition to the essential missions of strike group defense and maritime security operations. Of note, this deployment marked the first for VFA-103 and VFA-143 since their transition from the F-14 Tomcat to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Command and control of all aircraft transiting in and out of overland missions, as well as all aircraft providing strike group defense and conducting traditional maritime security operations was professionally handled by the E-2C Hawkeyes of the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125 “Tigertails.” Dominance of the electromagnetic spectrum of both Iraq and Afghanistan was conducted simultaneously by the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140 “Patriots,” a first for any EA-6B Prowler squadron. In addition to providing the strike group’s anti-submarine and anti-surface defense, as well as combat search and rescue, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5 conducted eight replenishments at sea and logistics flights into almost a dozen countries totaling more than 500,000 pounds of cargo and 900 passengers delivered. This fleet support was in addition to the impressive performance of the Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 “Rawhides.” Their two C-2 Greyhound aircraft transported more than 1.2 million pounds of cargo and nearly 5,000 passengers to and from Ike. Having traveled more than 69,000 nautical miles, conducted operations in support of three campaigns, and visiting four foreign ports, CVW-7 began its transition home on May 21 with the fly-off of VRC-40. On May 22, air crews returned to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Va., Jacksonville, Fla., and Oak Harbor, Wash. Dwight D. Eisenhower underway in Atlantic from 17 to 22 May 2007. “I’m extremely proud of our nearly 6,000 men and women of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group,” said Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, Commander CSG 8. “We were successful in supporting our coalition and regional allies by strengthening our collective efforts to keep the seas free, safe and secure for trade and commerce, conducting maritime security operations and flying missions in support of U.S. and multinational ground troops in both OIF and OEF. “Ike CSG’s deployment reflected the speed, agility, persistent presence and joint/combined warfighting capabilities that a carrier strike group provides in support of our national defense.” Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 flew approximately 12,000 sorties and has put in more than 31,400 flight hours since deployment began, providing air support for multinational coalition forces on the ground in support of various operations in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command AOR. “We supported joint coalition forces both in Iraq and Afghanistan, not only with kinetic effects, such as precision guided weapons and 20 mm cannon fire, but also with essential non-kinetic support through show of force and the work of the EA-6B, helicopter and E-2C squadrons,” said Lt. Dale Gregory, CVW-7 operations staff officer. “Throughout our deployment, we have been an essential part, whether that be in support of troops on the ground or in our mere presence at sea, global war on [terrorism].” The guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) supported MSO throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR, from the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. Anzio participated in 32 compliant boardings, demonstrating our nation’s commitment to maintaining international sea lines of communications open to all mariners, free from the threats of piracy, smugglers and terrorists. Anzio’s boarding teams provided both local fishermen and merchants with fuel, food and medical care to ensure their safety and spread a sense of cooperation to fellow mariners. While deployed to the Central Command AOR working for Combined Task Forces 150 and 152, the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) participated in multiple pulse operations across the AOR. These pulse operations focused on building a comprehensive recognized maritime picture in support of national and coalition tasking in numerous regions, to include the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Horn of Africa. Ramage conducted more than 40 approach and assist visits, three boardings, more than 100 maritime-awareness calls and 13 coordinated maritime-awareness calls. The guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) successfully executed Exercise Neon Falcon, a bilateral exercise between the United States and Royal Bahraini navies. The exercise was a vital step toward the chief of Naval Operation’s goal of an international “1,000-ship navy.” Additionally, Mason, USS Whirlwind (PC 11), and Bahraini ships participated in extensive in-port and at-sea exercises designed to flex the warfighting capabilities of both navies. A critical part in supporting sustained operations are underway replenishments (UNREP). From bringing to the ship everything from jet parts to food to fuel, an UNREP is essential. Dwight D. Eisenhower completed 36 UNREPs, taking on more than 8,000 pallets of supplies and approximately 21,000,000 gallons of JP-5. “The underway replenishment operations are critical to keeping Eisenhower Strike Group on-station and combat-ready,” said Ike ship’s bos’n, CWO3 Lyedell Gibson. Boosting morale and keeping Ike Sailors in touch with their loved ones, the ship’s post office and mail are very important to Ike and her mission. During deployment, Ike’s postal clerks brought on more than 300,000 pounds of mail. Another division tasked with keeping the lines of communication open is Combat Systems, CS-3 Division. Since deployment began, there were approximately 6,800,000 e-mails sent off the ship and approximately 7,300,000 e-mails sent to the ship. “I think the techs in CS-3 Division are amazing,” said CWO3 Ken Kipler, CS-3 Division officer. “They have directly impacted the mission of the strike group by ensuring that when the top leaders have had to make decisions, they had all the required information at their fingertips and the ability to communicate that decision over multiple communications paths.” Sailors have many opportunities to stay in touch with their loved ones at home, including use of the United Through Reading (UTR) program, which was established to provide a way for Sailors to comfort their children during an extended absence, such as deployment. Ike broke the record set by the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) for the most participation in UTR, producing a record number of 2,066 messages during a single cruise. Food Service Division also played a big part in keeping the crew happy. In eight months, Ike Sailors have gone through 45,780 gallons of milk, 633,120 eggs, 155,189 pounds of ground beef and 238,970 pounds of chicken. Food Service Division served a total of 3,190,211 meals to the crew. “We have a lot of pride in preparing the quality food for the crew,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Jerry Johnson. “We do our best to make sure everybody is happy with the food we serve. Ike Sailors also had the opportunity to take part in a Navy tradition when the ship conducted a “crossing the line” ceremony to commemorate the ship’s crossing of the equator. “What surprised me the most was when we crossed the equator,” said Yeoman Seaman Eric Tyson. “My dad is a Shellback, and I am really glad that I got to follow in his footsteps and become one myself.” The world famous Harlem Globetrotters visited Ike, bringing great basketball and entertainment to Sailors. “I believe this team excelled at every mission they were assigned. Our Sailors, 70 percent of whom had never deployed before, are the most inspiring men and women I’ve ever served with,” said Capt. Dan Cloyd, commanding officer of Dwight D. Eisenhower. “Looking back on the past eight months we know we’ve made a difference, that we saved lives every day and that we contributed significantly to the security and stability of uniquely important and remarkable parts of the world. We also know that our families helped make this excellence possible – we can’t thank them enough for their sacrifices and support. It’ll be great to be together with them again,” Cloyd added. CVW-7 squadrons returned to Norfolk on May 21 and 22. Dwight D. Eisenhower made her 11th and 12th Suez Canal transits on the U. S. Navy’s 123rd and 124th Suez Canal transit. Visited Naples, Italy; Limassol, Cyprus; Jebel Ali, U.A.E. and Lisbon, Portugal. Her 16th deployment since her commission 18 October 1977, Captain William E. Ramsey in command (3 October 2006 to 23 May 2007) and approximately the U. S. Navy’s 780th carrier Foreign water Fleet Deployment (FWFD)” (Ref. 44, 47, 72, 84A & 383).
http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/owcommandpost-about1405.html

Commanded by Rear Adm. Allen G. Myers, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 8, IKE CSG includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower, with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, and embarked Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68); guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Mason (DDG 87); and the fast-attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), all homeported in Norfolk, Va.

CVW-7 includes Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) One Two Five “Tigertails,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Zero Three “Jolly Rogers,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Three One “Wildcats,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) One Four Three “Pukin’ Dogs,” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) Eighty-three “Rampagers,” Electronic Attack (VAQ) Squadron One Four Zero “Patriots,” Helicopter Anti-submarine (HS) Five “Nightdippers,” and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) Forty “Rawhides.”
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/023.html

Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group Deploys
Story Number: NNS061003-32
Release Date: 10/3/2006 4:04:00 PM
From USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) -- Nearly 6,500 Sailors departed Oct. 3 with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations (MSO).
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=25883

Ike Makes Port Call to Naples
Story Number: NNS061023-10
Release Date: 10/23/2006 1:40:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Shanika Futrell, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) weighed anchor in the Bay of Naples, Italy, Oct. 21, following a successful four-day port visit.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26207

USS Ramage Hosts Reception in Neum
Story Number: NNS061025-10
Release Date: 10/25/2006 1:33:00 PM
From USS Ramage Public Affairs

USS RAMAGE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Ramage (DDG 61) hosted a reception Oct. 18 for the U.S. ambassador to Bosnia-Herzegovina (BiH) and other special guests during Ramage's port visit to Neum, BiH.

The three members of the Presidency of Bosnia-Herzegovina were among the guests attending the reception, along with the minister of defense, the chief of defense, and numerous ambassadors and defense attaches to Bosnia-Herzegovina from various countries around the world.

The crowd of nearly 100 dignitaries had the opportunity to interact with Ramage crew members and experience firsthand the quality of American service men and women.

Cmdr. James Dick, commanding officer of Ramage, acknowledged the impact the ship’s visit and the reception had on relations between the U.S. and BiH.

“This visit was a fantastic opportunity to interact with the people of Bosnia-Herzegovina," he said. "For most of the crew, this was their first visit to the country. The reception was an ideal venue for leadership of the country to experience the very best the United States Navy has to offer, our Sailors.”

Neum is the only sea port in Bosnia. The presence of a U.S. ship is an important sign to the people of Bosnia of the United States’ continued commitment to peace and stability in the region. Ramage is the third U.S. warship to visit Neum since the Dayton Peace Accords were signed in 1995.

The timing of Ramage’s visit was significant, as the last U.S. ground forces in BiH were withdrawn Oct. 16. Her presence helps to clearly communicate that while the U.S. footprint in the country may be diminished, the nation’s interest in the country and the region remains strong.

U.S. Ambassador Douglas McElhaney, and the Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia-Herzegovina, President Sulejman Tihic, both made remarks that highlighted the significance of the visit and the importance of ongoing U.S. support and involvement in the country.

Ramage conducted the visit as part of the theater-wide security cooperation plan for Commander, Naval Forces Europe and Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet.

The visit to Neum was the first for Ramage as part of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group, which deployed from Norfolk, Va., Oct. 3.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26194

Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) weighed anchor in the Bay of Naples, Italy, Oct. 21, following a successful four-day port visit.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26207

Anzio Helps Tivat Clear Litter
Story Number: NNS061025-18
Release Date: 10/25/2006 3:01:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Leistikow, USS Anzio Public Affairs

ABOARD USS ANZIO (NNS) -- Sailors from the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) helped 54 local junior achievement scholars clean up litter in Tivat, Montenegro, Oct. 23 as part of a community relations project.

The clean-up supported Montenegro’s anti-litter campaign and gave the Sailors and Montenegrin citizens a chance to get to know each other. This is the first time a U.S. Navy ship has visited Montenegro since the country declared independence in June 2006.

“For being one of the first ships here in years (first to visit Tivat since 1975), I’m sure it’s a good way for them (Montenegrins) to base their opinion about the Navy,” said Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Marcos Aponte.

Sailors were paired with small groups of junior achievement scholars. The groups split up throughout Tivat and picked up any litter they found.

“We’re not all that different,” said Lt. James Bradshaw, Anzio’s chaplain. “We might be separated by 3,000 miles of water, but we can still love our families, appreciate a good quality of life and we love our freedom.”

The junior scholars got a chance to practice their English as they asked Anzio Sailors about life on a ship and told them about life in Montenegro.

“They seemed like they were really interested in what we do on the ship,” said Enginemen 1st Class (SW) Greg Fogle.

Aponte felt working with the students showed a different side of the Navy.

“It shows the Navy can be more than aggressive,” he said. “They can be diplomatic.”

The teams worked together to fill about 100 bags of trash, making Tivat even cleaner than before.

Anzio is a member of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group, which is currently on a routine deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. The ships of the strike group are coordinating theater security cooperation engagements and maritime security operations with the armed forces of Montenegro, Italy, Cyprus, Bosnia, Greece, Croatia and Romania while operating in the Mediterranean Sea.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26254

Ike Sailors Make Waves in the Arabian Sea
Story Number: NNS061130-16
Release Date: 11/30/2006 2:59:00 PM – By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew D. Leistikow, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) took a break in the Arabian Sea to participate in a swim call Nov. 28.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26817

Senior Enlisted Advisors Visit Ike
Story Number: NNS061205-14
Release Date: 12/5/2006 4:27:00 PM – By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Leistikow, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) -- Senior enlisted advisors from throughout the Middle East area of responsibility visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), "Ike," Dec. 3 to talk with Sailors and experience life at sea.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26894

CVW-7 Continues OEF Missions Over Afghanistan
Story Number: NNS061118-02
Release Date: 11/18/2006 12:30:00 PM
From USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Group Public Affairs

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE), continue to provide close air support and reconnaissance to International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops on the ground in Afghanistan as part of Operation Eagle.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26691

Montel Williams Visits Ike, Brings Families Together During Deployment
Story Number: NNS061206-09
Release Date: 12/6/2006 1:32:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Carla Morton, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Talk show host Montel Williams visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), "Ike," Dec. 3 for an overnight visit in the Persian Gulf to bring families closer together and to give Sailors a chance to send warm holiday greetings to the people who support them from home.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26896

Trees for Troops Brings Christmas Spirit to Ike
Story Number: NNS061206-12
Release Date: 12/6/2006 4:18:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Shanika Futrell, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) have received eight natural Christmas trees from Trees for Troops.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26911

Harlem Globetrotters Visit IKE
Story Number: NNS061213-23
Release Date: 12/13/2006 4:25:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Seth Scarlett, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) -- The world famous Harlem Globetrotters visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) Dec. 11-13, bringing great basketball and entertainment to Ike Sailors deployed in the Persian Gulf.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27040

CNO and MCPON Visit Eisenhower CSG Sailors
Story Number: NNS061222-01
Release Date: 12/22/2006 7:54:00 AM

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa, Jr. visited Sailors underway in the Fifth Fleet area of operations Dec. 21, to bring holiday greetings and to thank the Sailors for the sacrifices they are making.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27154

CENTAF releases airpower summary for Nov 21 to Dec. 2 to 31
12/13/2006 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- U.S. Central Command Air Forces officials have released the airpower summary for Dec. 13.

In Afghanistan Dec. 12, Air Force MQ-1 Predators conducted strikes against Taliban extremists near Kandahar. The Predators expended Hellfire missiles on enemy targets.
http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123034986

"Ike" Sailors Experience Culture of Jebel Ali, Dubai
Story Number: NNS061228-06
Release Date: 12/28/2006 12:37:00 PM
By By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Carla Morton

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) enjoyed some time off as well as a chance to experience a foreign culture during a five-day port visit to Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 22-26.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27194

Video – CNO, MCPON Visit Naval Support Activity Bahrain or full page:
COMFIFTHFLT video News from the Fleet –
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/videos/index.html

MANAMA, Bahrain (NSA) - On the tail end of a week-long trip through the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, the United States Navy’s highest ranking officer and master chief met with service members stationed in Bahrain Dec. 27.
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2006/244.html

Army and Navy Work Hand-in-Hand Aboard IKE to Support Troops on the Ground
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew D. Leistikow

Dwight D. Eisenhower, At sea – Two Soldiers deployed to the Combined Air and Space Operations Center (CAOC) in Al Udeid, Qatar, have joined the crew aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Dec. 31 as Ground Liaison Officers (GLOs).
http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2007/002.html

Ike Providing Sailors Tools for Advancement Success
Story Number: NNS070104-08
Release Date: 1/4/2007 5:31:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Matthew D. Leistikow, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (NNS) – As reported on 4 January 2007: With the E-7 exam approaching this month and the E-4, E-5 and E-6 exams in March, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) is extending every opportunity for her Sailors to reach the next step in their naval career.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27226

"Ike" Holds Mass Warfare Pinning Ceremony
Story Number: NNS070108-01
Release Date: 1/8/2007 10:09:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Seth Scarlett

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Forty-three Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) were awarded their warfare pins at a mass pinning ceremony held Jan. 6.
http://www.navy.mil/search/displa
_________________

U. S. Navy Veteran
August 1977 to July 1983

Yoeman Second Class,
with student pilot's license

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