Sealift December 2021

EA IFT December 2021

THE U.S. NAVY’S MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND

An MH-60S Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Island Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, transports supplies to Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during a vertical replenishment-at-sea with Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202), Nov. 9. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Caden Richmond)

Yukon Sustains Allies, Partners during MALABAR 21

By Leslie Hull-Ryde, Military Sealift Command Far East Public Affairs

MALABAR 21 is an annual maritime exercise that enhances planning, training and employment of advance warfare tactics between the Royal Australian Navy, Indian Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and U.S. Navy; and a separate military training exercise that included the United Kingdom.

While the nations’ navies strengthened their skills in maritime operations throughout the exercises, Yukon conducted replenishmentsat-sea with ships involved in each exercise.

Underway replenishments provide food, fuel, fleet cargo, and other critical supplies to ships operating in the Indo-Pacific; sustaining them on station.

“Exercises like these enhance our interoperability and international teamwork,” said Capt. Daniel Glazier, Yukon’s master.

“Learning the procedures and techniques of other countries is important. Communicating through a common evolution creates a teamwork mentality because everyone wants to be safe and follow procedures that have the same goals.”

Elements of international maritime forces routinely operate together in the Indo-Pacific, fostering a cooperative approach toward regional security and stability.

Glazier said that throughout each phase of MALABAR and during the military training exercise, Yukon’s crew had the chance to practice several evolutions with their international colleagues, including communication drills and maneuvering tactics.

“It was apparent from the beginning that they are great, skilled mariners and carried out excellent maneuvering,” he said.

“Everyone took great pride in the materiel conditions of their ships.

All crews’ performances reflected proudly of the countries they represented.”

Fire Controlman 3rd Class Jonathan Banuelos prepares to shoot a shot line from Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) to Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) during a replenishmentat-sea, Oct. 18. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Marilu Veloria)

As the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, U.S. 7th Fleet employs 50-70 ships and submarines across the Western Pacific and Indian oceans. U.S. 7th Fleet routinely operates and interacts with 35 maritime nations while conducting missions to preserve and protect a free and open Indo-Pacific Region.

Sailors pull line during a refueling at sea with the Henry J. Kaiser-class oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) on the missile deck of the Arleigh Burkeclass guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76). (U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christine Montgomery)

-SECNAV Top Priorities

IN THIS ISSUE

Military Sealift Command’s fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) supported both phases of MALABAR 21.

MSC Headquarters is Proudly ISO 9001: 2015 QMS Accredited

-TRANSCOM COC -Industry Day -USS Frank Cable -USNS Burlington -MV Kellie Chouest -USS Hershel “Woody” Williams -Mare Aperto Exercise -USNS Fisher Former Sea Scout -We Are MSC -Disability Awareness Month -Fitness Corner

SECNAV Del Toro Outlines Top Priorities on Maritime Dominance, People, Strategic Partnerships From the Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, released his strategic guidance today to inform all activities within the Department of the Navy to include planning, investments, budgeting, and prioritization of personnel and resources.

builds on Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin’s vision of integrated deterrence, with an agile and ready force.

“Maximizing the Navy and Marine Corps maritime dominance in an era of strategic competition will define the Department’s mission for the next several years,” said Del Toro. “Our global economy, and the self-determination of free nations everywhere, especially in the Indo-Pacific, depends on sea power.”

The One Navy-Marine Corps Team: Strategic Guidance articulates Del Toro’s vision to build, train and equip the Naval Forces to deter, and if necessary win conflicts and wars in support of the defense strategy and national security priorities.

The strategic guidance also builds on Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger’s Force Design 2030 to modernize the expeditionary posture of the Marine Corps and implements Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday’s Navigation Plan to expand our fleet capabilities for distributed operations.

“We have to make the right investments today, so that we have the right capabilities tomorrow to deter and defeat any adversary,” said Del Toro. “We must act with urgency now as we rise to meet unprecedented challenges, and it’s this sense of urgency that’s the driving force behind the strategic guidance for the Department.”

“Implementation of this guidance is critical,” added Del Toro.

“Building the future capability we need to compete globally while taking care of our Sailors, Marines and military personnel requires a fully integrated Navy and Marine Corps team.”

Del Toro’s top priorities – maintaining maritime dominance, empowering our people, and strengthening strategic partnerships –

Van Ovost becomes 14th commander of U.S. Transportation Command

By Auburn Braithwaite, U.S. Transportation Command

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost took command of U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) in a ceremony here, Oct. 15, becoming the first female officer to lead the global combatant command.

“When people ask me ‘How does TRANSCOM do it? What is the secret to success?’ I tell them the truth. We are blessed with incredible people from around the globe,” Lyons said. “To the men and women of TRANSCOM, it has been my greatest honor to serve as your 13th commander.”

Van Ovost succeeds Gen. Stephen R. Lyons, the first Army officer to lead USTRANSCOM. Lyons retired today after 38 years of military service.

Lyons said he knows the command will welcome Van Ovost with open arms and that she is eminently qualified to lead an enterprise of more than 116 thousand logistics and transportation professionals to meet a rapidly changing global security environment.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III presided over the ceremony.

He said Lyons is a tough act to follow, but Van Ovost is exactly the right person for the job, describing her as a legend of a leader.

After taking command, Van Ovost said USTRANSCOM will remain committed to providing military leaders a mobility enterprise ready to deliver the immediate force tonight, and to be the decisive force when needed.

“She’s led at nearly every level of command, most recently at the helm of Air Mobility Command, where she played a key role by supplying planes and personnel for the Afghan airlift,” Austin said. “At the height of the NEO [Noncombatant Evacuation Operation], an aircraft was taking off from Kabul airport every 45 minutes. This kind of real-world combat achievement underscores something crucial. General Van Ovost, in the 21st century, careers like yours are a fighting imperative.”

“I assure you USTRANSCOM will defend our nation through rapid power projection and sustainment, while continuing to build a unity of effort through the strong bonds of our industry partners and our allies and partners,” Van Ovost said. “We will also remain committed to our most critical asset – our people.”

In addition to recent operations in Afghanistan, Austin highlighted the strategic advantages USTRANSCOM provides to the nation and its ability to align mobility resources to the highest strategic priorities of the Department of Defense (DOD).

Van Ovost expressed her appreciation for the leaders who chose her to serve and thanked Lyons for his leadership and service.

He said that on any given day, 115 rail-cars are moving DOD equipment, 33 ships are getting underway, 1,500 trucks are delivering cargo and every two minutes planes are hauling supplies, refueling aircraft, and moving patients.

“We are all grateful to have been under your command and to have taken part in your legacy,” she said. “It is an honor of a lifetime to be selected to lead the United States Transportation Command as we prepare to meet the challenges of tomorrow, today. Together, we will deliver.”

Austin said those are just ordinary operations, but also that the past year for USTRANSCOM was anything but ordinary.

USTRANSCOM exists as a warfighting combatant command to project and sustain military power at a time and place of the nation’s choosing.

Powered by dedicated men and women, TRANSCOM underwrites the lethality of the Joint Force, advances American interests around the globe, and provides our nation’s leaders with strategic flexibility to select from multiple options, while creating multiple dilemmas for our adversaries.

USTRANSCOM led the nation through the global pandemic with mitigation efforts, delivery of supplies and vaccines, and by sponsoring critical particle airflow and testing studies on board commercial aircraft, which established industry-wide safety standards for passengers. Lyons was also directed to activate the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) for just the third time and used CRAF for the first time to transport civilians.

U.S. Air Force Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost thanks family, distinguished guests and military members in her first address as the commander of U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Oct. 15. Van Ovost is the first female commander of USTRANSCOM; she takes over for Gen. Stephen R. Lyons, the first U.S. Army commander to lead USTRANSCOM. (U.S. Transportation Command photo by Tara Stetler)

“You had to keep the American military moving during a historic pandemic; and you delivered. You had to execute a complex retrograde in Somalia; and you delivered. You had to conduct the largest noncombatant evacuation airlift in American history in Afghanistan; and you delivered,” he said. “You conducted the largest NEO airlift in American history – in just 17 days.”

Austin said USTRANSCOM soared over the normal high expectations for the command under Lyons’ leadership and forged “a global transportation network that is stronger and faster than ever, and even more secure, hardened, and sustainable.”

As commander, Lyons focused on five priorities to champion transportation and logistical issues: Sealift recapitalization, air refueling capacity, cyber resiliency, digital modernization and the program responsible for moving DOD personnel, their families and their personal property.

Lyons also advocated for partnerships with industry to develop an innovative space transportation prototype to deliver cargo to any place on the globe within an hour.

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Small Business is Big Business at Military Sealift Command

By Bill Mesta, Military Sealift Command Public Affairs

Military Sealift Command hosted prospective small business industry partners to a Virtual Small Business Industry Day, Oct. 14. The event included more than 400 registered attendees, who represented a variety of businesses and industries.

The event was designed to connect prospective small businesses and industry representatives with MSC key leaders and subject matter experts in an effort to forge mutually beneficial partnerships.

“Here at MSC, small business is big business,” according to Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer, Commander, Military Leah Baker, Military Sealift Command’s Director, Office of Sealift Command. “Our Small Business Programs, addresses potential business mission enablers are partners during the command’s Virtual Small Business Industry Day, hosted from the MSC headquarters on Naval our people, platforms, Station Norfolk, Oct. 14. (U.S. Navy photo by Bill Mesta) processes and partners across the public and private sectors. Small businesses remain a critical ingredient to MSC’s success.”

In fiscal year 2020, MSC obligated more than $2.3 billion dollars with 44% of the contracts being awarded to small businesses. In fiscal year 2021, MSC obligated $1.9 billion dollars with over 50% of the contracts being awarded to small businesses.

Wettlaufer reinforced the Department of Defense’s stance on partnering with private industry and small businesses when he said, “Small businesses are the economic engine of our nation. You create jobs, innovate and contribute daily to the DOD’s mission.”

“Across the board, we are focused on providing opportunities for small businesses, including those from under-served communities, and empowered to compete for defense contracts, he added.”

MSC’s workforce of approximately 7,600 people includes Civil Service Mariners (CIVMAR), service members, Federal civil service employees and contractors. An additional 1,400 commercial mariners support MSC’s prepositioning, sealift and special mission programs.

“MSC is the leading provider in ocean transportation for the U.S. Navy and DOD,” according to Jacqueline Alford, Military Sealift Command’s Deputy Director, Office of Small Business Programs. “The Navy relies on MSC to develop, maintain, and operate United States Naval Ships (USNS) and contracted vessels.”

“MSC is responsible for approximately 130 civilian-crewed ships that resupply U.S. Navy ships at sea, conduct specialized missions, preposition

combat cargo around the world, and move military equipment and supplies to deployed U.S. forces,” Alford added. “MSC is responsible for the ships assigned to its fleet, including life-cycle management, ship readiness, maintenance and repair, and logistics support.”

For small business and industry interested in conducting business with MSC, the command’s Office of Small Business Programs is the best place to start.

“The MSC Office of Small Business Programs is the small business advocacy and advisory office responsible for ensuring small business concerns are afforded maximum practicable opportunities to participate in MSC’s acquisition requirements as prime contractors and subcontractors,” according to Leah Baker, Military Sealift Command’s Director, Office of Small Business Programs. “Our roles as the command’s Small Business professionals include implementing the overall Department of Navy Small Business Program throughout MSC, advocating to maximize small business opportunities both as prime contractors and subcontractors and advising and assisting MSC leadership and teammates on small business matters.”

Military Sealift Command is always in search of new small business industry partners. Prospective partners who are interested in conducting business with MSC should start by visiting https://www.msc.usff.navy. mil/ and MSC’s Small Business web site https://www.msc.usff.navy. mil/Business-Opportunities/Small-Business-Opportunities/ for more information about conducting business with MSC. This year’s Small Business Industry Day was hosted virtually to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Military Sealift Command intends on hosting future Small Business Industry Days which will either be held in person or virtually depending on the state of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Information about future events will be provided to the public.

“We were all sad that we were not able to meet in person, yet we are overjoyed to be able to reach so many in this virtual environment,” Baker stated. “We recognize outreach events, such as this Virtual Small Business Industry Day, are vitally important for building and sustaining our industrial base.”

Jacqueline Alford, Military Sealift Command’s Deputy Director, Office of Small Business Programs, addresses potential business partners during the command’s Virtual Small Business Industry Day, hosted from the MSC headquarters on Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 14. (U.S. Navy photo by Bill Mesta)

Industry Day continued on page 8

USS Frank Cable Begins Regional Indo-Pacific Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jonathan Trejo, USS Frank Cable Public Affairs The submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) departed Apra Harbor, Guam, as part of a scheduled patrol in the Indo-Pacific region, Oct. 18.

Cable’s master. “This gives us a chance to show our capabilities throughout the region and demonstrate that ‘We Are Ready, and We Deliver’!”

Frank Cable, U.S. Navy Sailors and Military Sealift Command Civil Service Mariners, are conducting expeditionary maintenance and logistics in support of national security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

For many Frank Cable Sailors, this is their first deployment in the Navy. Some of those Sailors arrived just in time to finish lead tender turnover and make Frank Cable’s first patrol as the expeditionary unit.

“Our crew has done an exceptional job to prepare for deployment,” said Capt. Albert Alarcon, Frank Cable’s commanding officer.

“We are ready to execute our expeditionary mission, which will continue to advance our Navy’s warfighting capabilities across the Pacific Theater.”

This deployment will be the ship’s first since turning over lead maintenance activity responsibilities with the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) in September.

“Our combined Navy and CIVMAR team has worked hard to prepare for this expeditionary mission,” said Capt. Patrick Peck, USS Frank

variety of simulated and live events ensuring the ship is capable of a full spectrum of expeditionary operations.

Frank Cable, forward-deployed to the island of Guam, repairs, rearms, and reprovisions submarines and surface vessels in the IndoPacific region.

“It’s a great experience to be part of the Frank Cable crew,” said Hull Maintenance Technician Fireman Steven Berlinger. “I feel fortunate to have gotten here before the ship left home port for our first patrol.”

Prior to deploying, the ship successfully completed sea trials, which included a

A view of the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) at sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alana Langdon)

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USNS Burlington Completes Deployment in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command

By LaShawn Sykes, Military Sealift Command Atlantic Public Affairs Military Sealift Command’s tenth Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport vessel USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) returned home to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, Virginia, Oct. 15, after a threeand-a-half month deployment in U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, U.S. 4th Fleet’s area of operations, which includes the waters adjacent to Central and South America and the Caribbean Sea. Destroyer Squadron 40 embarked U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Adam Huber, who served as the officer in charge for the embarked military detachment, while Burlington’s ship master, Capt. Tyler Driscoll, maintained responsibility for the operation and safety of the vessel and leadership of the crew.

Huber said he was amazed by the professionalism of the Burlington crew.

“We met and deployed on the same day. I integrated with ship’s core Civil Service Mariners and began conducting operations at the pace and level of a warship. When you look at the missions we encountered and executed, you’d be surprised to learn that Burlington is an auxiliary vessel. Her CIVMARS safely took her beyond its original design, setting the gold standard for future EPF deployments,” he said.

Steaming 14,253 nautical miles in 105 days with 26 CIVMARS, four contractors, and 64 U.S. Navy Sailors, Burlington’s primary mission was to serve as an afloat staging base platform for active duty Sailors and their equipment and materials to Freedom-class littoral combat ships’ (LCS) USS Billings and USS Sioux City. The Burlington crew assisted in the successful completion of 1,231 maintenance checks across four expeditionary LCS Preventative Maintenance Availabilities (PMAVs), Driscoll said. “Keeping Billings and Sioux City deployed and on station, allowed both ships to continue counter illicit drug operations and bolster strategic partnerships in the region.”

“EPFs are a great complement for LCSs, because like EPFs, LCSs are designed for high-speed intra-theater operations; making EPFs a force multiplier for LCS’s at sea,” Capt. Daniel Broadhurst, Commodore, Military Sealift Command Atlantic said.

Equally impressive, Broadhurst said, was the crucial, lifesaving support provided to Joint Task Force – Haiti’s relief effort in the aftermath of the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti Aug. 14, causing widespread destruction to buildings, including churches and hotels. The earthquake killed at least 2,200 people and injured more than 12,200, and left over 650,000 people in dire need of assistance. In addition to being the first naval asset on the scene, in the Gulf of Gonave, to provide command and control support in the region, Burlington successfully contributed to the relief effort, by supporting 671 humanitarian missions, which directly assisted 477 Haitians, and delivering 587,950 pounds of critical supplies.

In the end, this deployment was a huge success for a multitude of reasons, Driscoll said, “First, the entire crew worked and performed exceptionally well together. From the start of the deployment, everyone quickly became a family, completing each mission at the highest standard.”

“Second, answering the call to support the JTF - Haiti relief effort was a profound moment in our lives, Driscoll said. “In the words of one Navy Sailor, ‘We are all volunteers called to duty, and the fact that we got to answer that call in the pursuit of a noble cause is a career’s worth of justification to wear the uniform.’”

Huber echoed Driscoll’s sentiment. “The fact that we executed counter narcotics and operated with foreign partners, strengthening international relationships, and played an instrumental role in the Haiti relief effort, making a difference in the lives of people in need, was the icing on the cake.

We exceeded expectations, and I couldn’t be prouder of the entire crew.”

Burlington is a 338-foot-long aluminum catamaran designed to be fast, flexible and maneuverable, even in austere ports, making it ideal for rapidly transporting troops and equipment within a theater of operations. The 20,000-square-foot mission bay area can be reconfigured to quickly adapt to whatever mission the ship is tasked with.

Additionally, Burlington supported five counter-narcotics operations with Joint Inter-Agency Task Force-South (JIATF-S), assisting in the seizure of $33 million worth of suspected drugs.

“Because the Navy’s anti-drug mission remains critical, now more than ever before, each crew member can return home knowing that they made a difference in the fight against drug trafficking and crime in the Americas,” Broadhurst said.

The Burlington crew also developed a successful partnership with foreign Special Operations Forces (SOF), conducting integrated Navy Seal training for both the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago.

Military Sealift Command’s tenth Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport vessel USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story, Oct. 15, after a three-and-a-half month deployment in U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, U.S. 4th Fleet’s area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by LaShawn Sykes)

U.S. 6th Fleet, and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO Staffs begin Operations in the Mediterranean and Black Seas

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kaila Peters. U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

NATO allies and partners at the fleet level, and sets the stage for future operations and exercises.

Vice Adm. Gene Black wears two hats as commander U.S. 6th Fleet and STRIKFORNATO. The continuity of having one commander for the two commands complements the flexibility and unique capacity that each command brings to the NATO Alliance.

A view of the command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) at sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Scott Barns)

“U.S. 6th Fleet and STRIKFORNATO continue to prove their ability to seamlessly integrate U.S. and NATO forces in support of high-end operations and exercises,” said Black. “The knowledge and expertise of my combined staff highlights the power of our NATO Alliance. I look forward to taking this team to sea, continuing to enhance our teamwork and our collective capacity to command and control forces.”

U.S. 6th Fleet, and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) staff embarked aboard the U.S. 6th Fleet command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20), Oct. 29.

In June, STRIKFORNATO hosted the 50th iteration of the Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise, attesting to the efficiency and capability inherent in the command structures of STRIKFORNATO and U.S. 6th Fleet. BALTOPS validated interoperability concepts between the two staffs, which will continue during this embark.

During the underway, Mount Whitney and the embarked staffs will operate alongside NATO allies and partners in the Mediterranean and Black Seas, working together to ensure security and stability in the region.

Operating and exercising together demonstrates NATO’s commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in international waters for all nations.

Most recently, STRIKFORNATO participated as NATO Headquarters in the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Strike Group’s Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), Oct. 16-18. The Strike Group Units trained on NATO procedures, communications and policy in order to better prepare the ships, aircraft and staff for their upcoming carrier deployment.

The opportunity for the combined staff to operate together enhances interoperability by allowing the staffs to share processes and procedures, while training simultaneously from the same location in pursuit of a common goal. Training collectively also increases coordination with

“The STRIKFORNATO staff is very much looking forward to embarking on USS Mount Whitney and training and operating with U.S. 6th Fleet as we would in crisis and conflict,” said Rear Adm. James Morley, deputy commander, STRIKFORNATO.

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USS Hershel “Woody” Williams, First ESB to Complete Voyage Repair in South Africa

By U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa Public Affairs

On Oct. 11, USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) is the first expeditionary sea base to complete a voyage repair (VR) availability in South Africa.

South Africa is an important partner of the United States in promoting peace and security in Africa. Both South Africa and the United States rely on maritime shipping, and free and secure sea-lanes for economic prosperity.

During the scheduled port visit, Hershel “Woody” Williams completed a 14-day maintenance period in Cape Town’s Cruise Terminal. The ship received preventative and preservative repairs to the flight deck safety nets, mission deck, freeboard and superstructure, as well as the insulation and lighting fixtures.

The VR work packages, comprised of two separate work packages, one for Forward Deployed Regional Maintenance Center (FDRMC) and one for Military Sealift Command (MSC) including varying work items for each, solicited to multiple potential contractors within U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) area of operations, was completed on, or ahead of schedule.

This marked a milestone for maintenance in new and unchartered territory for the U.S. Navy.

Information System Technician 2nd Class Nathan A. Milca, right, and Electronics Technician 2nd Class Drake W. Childers perform annual maintenance on the forward house antennae aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel “Woody” Williams (ESB 4) while moored in Cape Town, South Africa for a regularly scheduled maintenance period. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Malachi Lakey)

The HAW is the first multinational military airlift unit in the world that provides worldwide airlift response capability for the 12 member nations.

Operations can include national support to the European Union, NATO, United Nations operations, or national military, peacekeeping and humanitarian relief operations. In this case, the military flight carried approximately 26,000 lbs of critical medical and general material as well as mail and other items required to continue mission tasking in the southern border of the AFRICOM and NAVAF area of operations.

This maintenance availability also prompted the first Naval Logistic Support flight into Cape Town, South Africa in support of a U.S. Naval War Ship. The last military flight to land in Cape Town was in 2003.

The U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet (NAVEUR-NAVAFSIXTHFLT) Readiness and Logistics team and U.S. Embassy to Pretoria, South Africa coordinated this critical logistic support through the U.S. Air Force Europe-Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) Multinational Heavy Lift Airlift Wing (HAW), based out of Papa Air Base, Hungary. The Hungarian C-17A Globemaster III is operated by the United States, alongside 11 NATO and Partnership for Peace nations, under the Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC) program.

Hershel “Woody” Williams previously visited Cape Town in February to resupply fuel and promote maritime security through a persistent presence in African waters. Hershel “Woody” Williams is the first warship permanently assigned to the AFRICOM area of responsibility.

“I am so proud of the incredible cooperative efforts between our partners in South Africa, HAW, and our team to enable this milestone resupply flight for HWW,” said Rear Adm. Michael Curran, Readiness and Logistics, NAVEUR-NAVAF. “The accomplishment of the mission and level of coordination between the teams was nothing short of outstanding. This flight demonstrated what can be accomplished with our friends when we bring our collective capabilities together.”

“As the only ship permanently assigned to AFRICOM, much of what we do is geared toward continuing to build ties with partner nations in Africa, and exploring how we can work together,” said Capt. Chad Graham, commanding officer, Hershel “Woody” Williams. “This maintenance period was a perfect example of that, where we received mission critical repairs from a South African company, and benefited the local economy.”

U.S. Navy Supports Italy’s Mare Aperto Exercise From U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

“We have completed Mare Aperto 21 and further reinforced the partnership among our NATO allies,” said Cmdr. Joseph Hamilton, executive officer of USS Porter. “Mare Aperto was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our relationship with the Italian Navy to show we are truly stronger together.”

Porter strengthened this relationship by performing naval maneuvers with Italian allied ships. The close proximity of ships operating in formation requires constant communication and professional ship handling ability.

Coordinating with allied and partner navies in this fashion enhances the capabilities of both sides to operate in concert with each other and is a testament to the strength of the cooperation among navies.

CTF 67 aircraft improved combat capability among NATO allies by sharing key maritime domain awareness data while conducting airborne maritime patrols. P-8A Poseidon aircraft, assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 1, the “Screaming Eagles,” transmitted, tracked, and communicated surface contacts with the Italian frigate ITS Carabiniere (F 593). This key information sharing between NATO allies builds an accurate picture of the maritime domain, enhancing commanders’ awareness of the area of operations and enabling a faster and more informed decision-making process.

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) conduct replenishment-at-sea operations with the Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196), Oct. 17. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katie Cox)

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft from Commander, Task Force 67, and the Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) recently participated in the Italian-led multilateral maritime exercise Mare Aperto in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

USNS Kanawha’s (T-AO 196) participation provides a capable replenishment platform for U.S. and NATO ships underway for the exercise. Kanawha is one of 15 fleet replenishment oilers operated by Military Sealift Command (MSC). These ships provide underway replenishment of fuel to U.S. Navy and NATO ally ships at sea and jet fuel for aircraft assigned to aircraft carriers.

U.S. forces worked alongside Italian, French, German and Turkish maritime forces to develop interoperability and proficiency among the NATO allies in various maritime warfare scenarios.

Replenishments-at-sea are complex evolutions which require precision ship handling of highly skilled professional mariners from both of the providing and receiving ships. The ability to replenish U.S. and allied forces allows for increased on-station time to successfully accomplish maritime missions.

“It was a privilege to operate alongside our Italian allies,” said Cmdr.

Christopher Petro, commanding officer of USS Porter. “[In] each multinational exercise, the crew of Porter has the ability to participate in is a chance to not only maintain security and stability in the region, but also hone our skills as mariners and warfighters.”

Italian Aircraft Carrier Cavour and Landing Helicopter Aircraft Garibaldi, as well as Landing Platform Dock San Giorgio, Auxiliary ships Vulcano and Stromboli, Destroyer Doria, Fregate Fasan, Carabiniere and Rizzo participated in the exercise, alongside many other vessels.

Mare Aperto is designed to improve combined combat capability, increase operational capacity, and strengthen relationships among NATO allies and partners.

Vessels comprising Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, flagship ITS Fasan, the Turkish Navy frigate TCG Gokçeada (F 494) and German tanker FGS Spessart also participated in the exercise.

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Former Sea Scout Keeps Sealift Ship Safe

By Leslie Hull-Ryde, Military Sealift Command Far East Public Affairs Youth-focused experiences are often the first exposure some mariners have to their future careers.

essential supplies, fuel, cargo and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore.

That’s certainly the case for Rebecca Main who currently serves as the chief mate aboard the surge sealift ship USNS Fisher (T-AKR 301).

Task force commanders employ these ships to ensure mission accomplishment.

Although not by design, most of her life, Main has worked toward becoming a chief mate. It’s an important job as she’s charged with safely conducting all cargo operations on Fisher.

“My primary concern is the stability of the vessel,” Main said.

As the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, 7th Fleet employs 5070 ships and submarines across the Western Pacific and Indian oceans.

U.S. 7th Fleet routinely operates and interacts with 35 maritime nations while conducting missions to preserve and protect a free and open IndoPacific Region.

To that end, she meticulously plans and efficiently executes the loading and unloading of Fisher’s cargo. In addition, she supervises training and ensures necessary maintenance on all the cargo-related equipment.

Military Sealift Command is the leading provider of ocean transportation for the Navy and the rest of the Department of Defense - operating approximately 125 ships daily around the globe.

While she has the title and responsibility of chief mate, Main works closely with the ship’s boatswain’s mate and members of Fisher’s deck department to make it all happen.

Editor’s note: Cmdr. Dawn Hansen contributed to this story.

Chief Mate Rebecca Main is responsible for all cargo-handling operations aboard Military Sealift Command’s surge sealift ship USNS Fisher (T-AKR 301). USNS Fisher transports rolling stock and containers in support of Department of Defense sealift missions in the Indo-Pacific Region. (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Dawn Hansen)

“It takes a team to accomplish the mission,” she says.

Her entrance into the world of service at sea began when she joined the Sea Scouts as a student. According the organization’s website, it teaches young people about the United States’ maritime heritage, water safety and boating skills.

Later on, Main became a launch boat operator at a yacht club in Massachusetts. Her experiences there sparked an interest the Massachusetts Maritime Academy at Buzzards Bay, Mass. The Minnelo, Florida, resident graduated from the academy in 2008.

Since then she’s served the Department of Defense’s sealift missions around the world.

USNS Fisher is part of Military Sealift Commands surge sealift fleet and transports DOD’s rolling stock and containers throughout the IndoPacific Region.

Military Sealift Command Far East ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific region, are manned, trained and equipped to deliver

We are MSC: Able-bodied Seaman Nadia Macasaet

By LaShawn Sykes, Military Sealift Command Atlantic Public Affairs What is your name and title, and what ship are you on?

My name is Nadia Macasaet, and I’m an ablebodied seaman aboard USNS Walter S. Diehl (T-AO 193).

When did you join Military Sealift Command, and what is unique about your career with MSC? In 2012, I joined MSC and began working in the ship’s deck department, where I have been responsible for the underway replenishment rigs, dry and liquid cargo handling, forklift operations, and helicopter flight deck operations. I also stand watch while in port and at sea, and perform routine deck maintenance; cleaning, painting, chipping, and preserving the ship.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Wake up. Get dressed. Eat Breakfast.

Muster at 0800. Once I receive the day’s work instructions from the ship’s boatswain, the nine-hour workday commences, with breaks provided throughout the day. During the summer season, it is important that I remember to stay hydrated throughout the day. I break for lunch at noon and start the second half of my workday at 1300. The Able-bodied Seaman Nadia Macasaet works in the deck department aboard USNS Walter S. Diehl (T-AO 193). (U.S. Navy Photo by LaShawn Sykes)

workday typically ends at 1700 but if we are lucky, overtime will begin at 1730.

What is the best thing about being a CIVMAR aboard USNS Walter S. Diehl?

Personally, it doesn’t matter whether the vessel is in pristine condition or looking incredibly tired, nothing will get done well if you don’t enjoy being a part of the crew, and I very much enjoy being a part of the crew of USNS Walter S. Diehl, from the officers to the unlicensed crewmembers.

What is the most challenging part of your work aboard USNS Waters S. Diehl?

The most challenging part of the work aboard USNS Walter S. Diehl is getting the ship back to shape, and to do so compels me to exercise my knowledge and experience over the last nine years to help the crew get it done. During the summer months, the heat and humidity only increases the difficulty.

What’s most unique about my career with MSC is figuring out how to describe my job to family members and friends. The differing scope of operations from one class of ship to another is always hard to explain. My global travel is always different because each country often has different entry requirements. In addition, trying to describe each country’s unique cultures and customs makes my job appear to be almost exotic.

What is your favorite memory of being at sea?

I have two favorite memories. The first is playing video games with my fellow mariners in the lounge to decompress after a long day at work, and the second is the first time I was left alone in a winch booth during an underway replenishment.

What is your job with MSC? As an abled-bodied seaman, I am tasked to not only safely navigate the seas but also to operate safely and efficiently under sometimes difficult weather conditions during fueling and cargo operations. As a member of the deck department, duties can range from preservation of the ship itself to the handling of lines during arrival and departure operations, as well as operating large and small machinery from fork trucks to lifeboats.

What would you tell someone who is interested in joining MSC? Read carefully the fine print of the position you are applying for; so that, you are clear of all that the job entails. Nothing is worse than running into a fellow mariner who is surprised the ship is going to sea.

6

Military Sealift Command Honors National Disability Employment Awareness Month

By Bill Mesta, Military Sealift Command Public Affairs

Civilian teammates and service members attached to Military Sealift Command gathered virtually to honor National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Oct. 26.

“Colleges and Universities register for the program in the spring and market the WRP to students and recent graduates with disabilities,” Osbourne added. “The students and recent graduates register and are confirmed for participation in the fall. The database is updated with the new candidates annually in December.”

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is an opportunity to reaffirm the Department of Defense’s (DOD) commitment to recruit, retain, and advance individuals with disabilities throughout our workforce, according to the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute.

The WRP database is available year-round to employers. WRP candidates consist of undergraduate, graduate students and recent graduates from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds.

“National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a nationwide campaign which celebrates the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities,” Yeoman Chief Petty Officer Jair McGee-Anderson, the mistress of ceremonies for the special observance stated. “The observance also emphasizes the importance of guaranteeing that all Americans have access to the services necessary to enable them to work.”

Schedule ‘A’ hiring authority, used for hiring people with severe physical disabilities, psychiatric disabilities, and intellectual disabilities, is an excepted authority used to appoint persons with severe physical disabilities, psychiatric disabilities, and intellectual disabilities, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Individuals may qualify for conversion to permanent status after two years of satisfactory service. Severe physical disabilities include but are not limited to blindness, deafness, paralysis, missing limbs, epilepsy, dwarfism, and more.

The theme for this year’s special observance was “America’s Workforce: Empowering All.”

“The Schedule ‘A’ Hiring Authority, for people with disabilities (Schedule A), is an exception to the traditional hiring process,” according to Caine. “Schedule ‘A’ streamlines the hiring process for persons with disabilities and, in some instances, hiring officials may select solely from a list of qualified Schedule ‘A’ applicants.”

MSC’s NDEAM special observance featured, Bryan Osbourne, Military Sealift Command’s Military Sealift Command’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program Director, who provided information about the Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP), and Military Sealift Command Human Resource Specialist Sharon Caine who discussed the use of “Persons with Disabilities Schedule ‘A’” when considering prospective future MSC teammates. Caine also provided information about MSC’s efforts to ‘self-identify’ its teammates’ disability status.

“A person can apply using Schedule ‘A’ if they are a person with an intellectual disability, a severe physical disability, or a psychiatric disability,” Caine added. “In order to be selected the person will need to show that they meets the qualifications of the job (with or without reasonable accommodation).”

“WRP is a recruitment and referral program to help connect Federal employers with college students, graduate students and recent graduates with disabilities who are eager to demonstrate their skills and abilities in the workplace through internships or permanent positions,” Osbourne said.

An individual wishing to be hired under the Schedule A (5 CFR 213.2102(u)) hiring authority must provide proof he or she is indeed an individual with intellectual disability, severe physical disability, or psychiatric disability.

This proof must be provided to the hiring agency before an individual can be hired.

The leadership at MSC is always in search of new teammates and the WRP has shown to be an effective tool to find talent who might not be found using traditional recruiting methods, according to Osbourne.

For employers who are interested in more information about Schedule ‘A’ hiring authority, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/abcs-schedule.

Prospective employers have direct access to candidate information via the website (www.wrp.gov). Employers are able to find candidates with specific skills needed for a position. The website contains an extensive search page to assist employers with finding the best candidates.

In addition to Schedule ‘A,’ Caine addressed MSC’s efforts to identify its teammates with disabilities.

Disability Awareness Month continued on page 8

Happy and Healthy Holidays!

From Leighanne Gerstbrein, Military Sealift Command Health Coordinator • Enjoy yourself. Finally, you deserve to enjoy the meals you

love, especially if you only get them this time of year. Slow

down and savor a small serving.

The holidays are a great time to rejoice and celebrate with family and friends. However, they can also cause some people distress if they are surrounded by extra temptations. But this time of year does not have to be stressful! Here are some tips to help you stay on track throughout the holiday season:

MSC has available resources for you. The Health Promotion program at MSC offers the free following services to its civilian mariners:

• Proof your plan. This is a great time to stick with what you

know works for you, whether it be sticking with eating close

to your usual times or eating a small snack at your usual

time so you can eat a little less when a big meal is served.

• InBody Screenings (measures percentage of body fat, muscle bass, basal metabolic rate, or how many calories you burn at rest in a day, and more)

• Manage stress. Keep spending and commitments in check.

Rely on family and friends, maintain an optimistic and calm

outlook. Make sure to get proper sleep are keys steps you

can take to stay in control of your stress levels this season.

And, last but certainly not least, make time for yourself to

relax! Everyone benefits from a stress-free you.

• Individualized Health Coaching

• Online health education and exercise classes

• Subscription to Weekly Wellness newsletters, covering a variety of health and wellness topics

• Make healthy choices easier. For instance, fill up on

vegetables first to take the edge off your appetite. And remember

to eat slowly; it takes your brain 20 minute to realize you

are full!

• Health Risk Assessment and subscription to on-line wellness portal

• SHIP FIT: A workout plan distributed quarterly with all bodyweight exercises that can be done while underway or at home

• Stay active! Aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity

aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic

activity a week. You probably have a lot on your plate this time

of year, and physical activity may get crowded out. But the

rewards from being active, from a stronger immune system to

feeling more in control of your stress and sleeping better, may

be just what you need this holiday season.

If you or someone you know may benefit from any of the above listed services, or for more information on the MSC Health Promotion program, contact one of your Health Promotion Coordinators: CSU-East: Email: leighanne.gerstbrein.ctr@navy.mil, (757) 443-5630 CSU-West: Email: kylie.kutina.ctr@navy.mil, (858) 224-3068

7

Industry Day continued from page 3

The MSC Virtual Small Business Industry Day included briefs focused on the Navy’s Office of Small Business Programs, using the Procurement Technical Assistance Center, an MSC contracts overview, ship repair challenges, MSC training requirements, information technology needs and critical safety items, parts and service support.

According to Baker, “The MSC Virtual Small Business Industry day will be followed by a virtual matchmaking event on Oct. 28, where small businesses can meet with MSC subject matter experts and pitch their capabilities.”

Wettlaufer closed his remarks by stating, “MSC actively seeks opportunities to leverage innovation, agility, responsiveness and competition that small businesses bring to empower our global warfighting effectiveness. We value your service and business and look forward to future opportunities to engage with you.”

Baker provided the following resources for prospective small business partners and industry:

-SBA SUBNet: https://eweb1.sba.gov/subnet/client/dsp_Landing.cfm Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs): http://www.aptacus.org -Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR): https://www.acquisition.gov/ far/ -Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFARS): https://www.acq. osd.mil/dpap/dars/dfarspgi/current/ -Review MSC websites: https://www.msc.usff.navy.mil/ -MSC’s Small Business Website: https://www.msc.usff.navy.mil/ Business-Opportunities/Small-Business-Opportunities/ -MSC’s Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MSCdelivers -MSC’s Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/MSCsealift

-Search Contracting Opportunities: https://sam.gov

-MSC’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/military-sealiftcommand

-Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS): https://web.sba.gov/pro-net/ search/dsp_dsbs.cfm

-Long Range Acquisition Forecasts: https://www.msc.usff.navy.mil/ Business-Opportunities/Contracts

-Small Business Administration (SBA): www.sba.gov Disability Awareness Month continued from page 7

In order to foster a culture of inclusion in the work environment at MSC, new employees are provided the opportunity to provide their status as a disabled employee by completing a Standard Form 256 (SF-256). This voluntary form issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is used to gather disability employment information within the federal government. Current employees are encouraged to ‘self-identify’ their disability status as well.

According to Caine, “MSC teammates should ‘self-identify’ their disability status to ensure accurate representation of the disability workforce at MSC and Enhance existing efforts to identify and eliminate barriers equal employment opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities.”

Caine emphasized that self-identifying one’s disability status is both confidential and voluntary.

ANYDAY

SINGAPORE

“When MSC teammates ‘self-identify’ their disability status, they are assisting with allocating resources to disability-related programs such as reasonable accommodation and enhancing the DON’s affirmative employment efforts for individuals with disabilities,” Caine added.

MSC teammates can update their disability status by logging into their MyBiz account at https://compo.dcpds.cpms.osd.mil. They can also complete and submit a Standard Form 256 (SF-256).

“The Department of Defense (DOD) and MSC remain diligent in providing every person opportunities for a meaningful career in a culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity,” concluded McGee-Anderson. “By empowering all, the Defense Department continues to build an inclusive workforce resulting in total force readiness.”

BAHRAIN

NORFOLK GUAM

ROTA

Sealift is an authorized publication for members and employees of the Navy’s Military Sealift Command.

Contents of this publication are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Sealift is published monthly by the Military Sealift Command Office of Public Affairs as authorized under NAVPUBINST 5600.42A. Submission of articles and letters should be addressed to: Editor, Sealift, Military Sealift Command 471 East C Street Norfolk, VA 23511-2419 Commercial: 757-443-2839 DSN: 646-2839 EMAIL: lewis.w.mesta.civ@us.navy.mil Commander.......Rear Adm. Mike Wettlaufer, USN Director, Public Affairs............. Tom Van Leunen Deputy Director, Public Affairs......Jillian Morris Editor.............................. Bill Mesta, Norfolk, VA Visual Information...... Brian Suriani, Norfolk, VA Visual Information.......Theresa Nagel Norfolk, VA Writer......................... Jennifer Hunt, Norfolk, VA Writer.......................David Griesmer, Norfolk, VA Writer..................... Cathryn Lindsay, Norfolk, VA Writer...................... LaShawn Sykes, Norfolk, VA Writer........................Leslie Hull-Ryde, Singapore Writer....................Sarah Burford, San Diego, CA Military Sealift Command reports to the Commander, U.S. Transportation Command for defense transportation matters, to the Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command for Navy-unique matters and to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition for procurement policy and oversight matters.

A Super Puma (EC-225) helicopter, attached to Military Sealift Command’s dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6), lowers cargo onto the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a replenishment-at-sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gray Gibson)

Sailors aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) standby to receive a fuel probe from Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)