4 l 10 l 2017
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Photo by Matt Hildreth
She's Underway: CVN 78 Departs for Sea Trials Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) departed Newport News Shipbuilding to embark on builder's sea trials Saturday, April 8. The trials represent the first time the carrier has gone underway using her own power. Builder's sea trials provide an opportunity for shipbuilders, Ford's crew and U.S. Navy personnel to test systems, components and compartments at sea. The trials will include high-speed runs and a demonstration of the carrier's other capabilities. Named for the 38th President of the United States, CVN 78 is the first ship in the Fordclass and features an enhanced flight deck with increased aircraft sortie rates, improved weapons movement, a redesigned island, a new nuclear power plant, electromagnetic catapults and growth margin for future technologies and reduced manning. Download the NNS to Go app to view a photo slideshow of CVN 78 embarking on builder's trials or visit HII social media pages using #FordCVN78.
USS Thresher: Never to be Forgotten Monday, April 10, marks the 54th anniversary of the tragic sinking of the submarine USS Thresher. Although Thresher was not built by NNS, its somber anniversary is a time for all employees to reflect on the importance of quality and the consequences of a mistake. Shipbuilders are encouraged to take this time think about how to ensure the first-time quality of all NNS products.
Employee Ticket Information Newport News Shipbuilding will christen Indiana (SSN 789) on Saturday, April 29. The Communications Division has a limited number of tickets to the event to distribute to employees. Two tickets will be given to employees who request tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. NNS employees interested in tickets should contact Yasmine Robinson (O29) at 380-2428. Employees selected to receive tickets will be notified the week of April 17 via email or by phone regarding ticket pickup dates. A live webcast of the ceremony will also be available beginning at 11 a.m. Additional details will be available in Currents, on the NNS to Go app and on HII social media pages in the coming weeks.