Month: May 2024

Source: United States Navy

The Wasp (WSP) ARG-24th MEU are underway completing the final training and certification event prior to a scheduled deployment – Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). They are the first ARG to train with two new medical capabilities: the En-Route Care System (ERCS) and the Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical System (ERSS). Both are designed to improve the survivability of personnel across the full spectrum of care, regardless of ship or environment, and may be activated during the 2024 ARG/MEU deployment.

Within the WSP ARG, both ERCS and ERSS are led by Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 4, an embarked medical command-and-control element that delivers care on demand in combat and non-combat situations.

FST 4 is a team of 18 officers and enlisted personnel who provide medical care across the WSP ARG-24th MEU. Specifically, they provide damage control surgery, meaning they can take a patient who is critically injured and stabilize them onboard the USS WASP until they are moved to a facility with more specialized care, such as a shore-based hospital.

“The biggest reason we brought these programs into play is to make [expeditionary medical care] more effective,” said Cmdr. John Saenz, the Officer In Charge of FST 4. “The ERSS is capable of going ashore anywhere, or afloat on any platform; while the ERCS is capable of stabilizing patients with special training and equipment from the point of injury to the ship via helicopter – something that FST 4 didn’t previously have the capability to do without limiting our own capabilities on our medical teams.”

ERCS provides a ready, rapidly deployable and combat effective medical force, consisting of a two-person team with mobile equipment that supports medical care for up to two critically injured or ill patients. They can provide medical care for up to eight hours and can transport patients via a variety of means, such as: rotary wing air craft, tiltrotor aircraft, landing cushion air craft (LCAC), rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB), and ground transport.

Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Elisha Rodgers is a trained Search and Rescue Medical Technician on the ERCS team training with FST 4 aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), the flagship of the WSP ARG-24th MEU. “The En-Route Care System is still in its infancy,” said Rodgers. “Our goal is trying to network with our Sailors and Marines, in order for them to know [members of the ERCS team] are trained and highly capable people who are ready to respond if something happens.”

The first ERCS deployed with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) in support of the currently deployed Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG). Despite the protocols existing for more than a decade, ERCS was only recently implemented as a program of record. Working within the ARG-MEU construct will provide new challenges for the team, but it is a natural and needed step in making Navy expeditionary and afloat medicine more capable.

“The reason behind the development of these programs is to better equip the WSP ARG-24th MEU with the capability to move causalities without degrading other teams that are in place, such as the Fleet Surgical Team that is on board,” said Lt. Rebecca Smith, the ERCS critical care nurse assigned to FST 4.

“The goal is for ERCS to be ready for any mission, whether that is pushing forward to provide a more advanced level care closer to point of injury, or providing transport to the next level of care after the casualty has been stabilized on the ship,” said Smith.

Another unique piece of the WSP ARG-24th MEU’s medical readiness is the Expeditionary Resuscitative Surgical System. The ERSS team, embarked aboard the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21), consists of a seven-person team designed to be scalable and highly mobile. They provide support to missions anywhere and aboard any platform with mobile equipment that supports damage control surgery. In contrast, the ERSS provides damage-control resuscitation and surgery for up to four critically injured or ill patients and six non-critical patients until safe transfer can occur.

Aboard New York, Navy Capt. Sean Conley, the officer in charge of ERSS Alpha, highlights his team’s ability to be flexible no matter what setting they are in.

“We bring subject matter expertise in critical care and prolonged casualty care, “said Conley. “The ability to manage sick or injured patients in remote locations, with limited resources for longer than traditionally intended, is our job.”

The ERSS team aboard New York is a diverse team, including members from various medical commands. Prior to coming aboard New York, they came together for four weeks of training and preparation for anything deployment may throw their way.

“This team is comprised of members from Walter Reed Naval Military Medical Center, Naval Medical Center (NMC) Portsmouth and NMC Camp Lejeune,” explained Conley. “We first came together in January where we spent three weeks out at the [Navy] Trauma Training Center in Los Angeles, followed by a week at the Naval Expeditionary Training Institute at Camp Pendleton. While in LA, we got ‘reps and sets’ on real life trauma patients, and discussed some of the practical aspects and limitations of the equipment and locations we may operate within.”
While Conley admitted he does not know what future tasking may bring, he expressed that his team and their goals will not deviate.

“My three major goals for the team are: One – [to have] a familiarization with the LPD’s mission and medical department, and the ARG-MEU’s mission and capabilities. Two – to determine how and where the ERSS can provide support to those missions; and three – to educate everyone we can on who we are and what the ERSS brings to the table, helping smooth future teams’ integrations and incorporation into mission-planning.”

ERCS and ERSS are both highly capable teams determined to educate the wider Navy and Marine Corps on their capabilities and how they plan to tackle challenges presented to them. These teams are masters in their field, rising to a new standard as they prepare to support the WSP ARG-24th MEU on their upcoming deployment.
As the old phrase says, “train as you fight.” As WSP ARG-24th MEU’s COMPTUEX nears completion, the ERCS and ERSS teams are in their corner, ready to step into the ring.

Wasp and New York are underway in the Atlantic Ocean as part of the WSP ARG-24th MEU completing integrated naval training. For more information on the WSP ARG-24th MEU visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/wasparg24thmeu

The WASP ARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), Harpers Ferry class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), and embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

The 24th MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) with a command element, Aviation Combat Element (Medium Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (reinforced)), Ground Combat Element (Battalion Landing Team 1/8), and Logistics Combat Element (Combat Logistics Battalion 24).

Source: United States Navy

Perry visited the flagship of the Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4, Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (WSP ARG) and embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) while the Sailors and Marines were at sea training for a scheduled deployment.

The visit was one in a series of high level visits during the at sea training period. In addition to the fleet commander’s visit, Wasp recently hosted guests from the Senate Appropriations Committee – Defense Sub-Committee and the Offices of the Secretary of Defense for Policy, Personnel and Readiness, and Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation.

“I am extremely impressed by the amount of teamwork and integration I have seen at every level,” said Perry in a 1MC announcement as he addressed the crew.

“The WASP ARG-24th MEU embodies what it means to be a ‘Team of Teams’, and that will be necessary for the deployment operations you have ahead of you.”

While aboard the ship, Perry recognized Sailors and Marines for their contributions to mission and team readiness. He also took the opportunity to see many of the capabilities within the WSP ARG-24th MEU that make the integrated naval force and amphibious warships in such high-demand by fleet and combatant commanders. Highlights of the trip included the well deck and extensive medical facilities.

“You must continue to train and be at your highest level of performance and competitive advantage every day,” said Perry in a group huddle after recognizing Sailors and Marines in the ship’s well deck.

“While you are deployed, you are going to work extensively with our allies and partners, and your mission focus and leadership is critical. You are the men and women who directly support our national priorities and reinforce the rules based order that is critical to U.S. and Allied security.”

During the tour, Perry was able to meet the people at the tactical edge of the Navy’s newest medical capability. The WSP ARG-24th MEU is the first ARG-MEU team to incorporate into integrated training, and certify with ERCS.

Lt. Rebecca Smith, the En-Route Care System (ERCS) critical care nurse assigned to Fleet Surgical Team 4, provided a live demonstration of the system. ERCS consists of a two-person team with mobile equipment that supports medical care for up to two critically injured or ill patients for up to eight hours.

Before departing, Perry delivered inspirational words to the Blue-Green team aboard Wasp. “Your challenge, your charge, your mission, will be to represent our nation’s interests,” he continued. “I am proud of the hard work each of you has put in to getting the ship where it is, and I look forward to seeing you succeed on deployment… Stingers Up, Wasp!”

Wasp is underway in the Atlantic Ocean completing Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX) as the flagship of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (WSP ARG)-24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 4 and Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG) work together with Joint and Allied teammates during COMPTUEXs to mentor, train, and assess ARGs and MEUs in support of U.S. and Allied economic, security, and defense interests.

The WSP ARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21), Harpers Ferry class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Commands embarked across the ARG include Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28, Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 22 Det 1, Fleet Surgical Team 4 and the 24th MEU.

The 24th MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) with a command element, Aviation Combat Element (Medium Marine Tiltrotor Squadron 365 (Reinforced)), Ground Combat Element (Battalion Landing Team 1/8), and Logistics Combat Element (Combat Logistics Battalion 24).

For more information on the WSP ARG-24th MEU, visit our feature page on Defense Visual Information Distribution System (https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/wasparg24thmeu)

Source: United States Navy

Carney conducted a brief stop in Norfolk for logistics before returning home to Naval Station Mayport later this month.

“I could not be more proud of what the Carney team has done since September. Called to action on the very first day that you entered the U.S. 5th Fleet, you conducted 51 engagements in 6 months,” said Franchetti. “You saved lives, ensured the free flow of commerce, and stood up for the rules-based international order and all the values that we hold dear. It has been eye-watering to watch, you are truly America’s Warfighting Navy in action.”

Carney was conducting routine operations in U.S. 6th Fleet when Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7. Carney entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations on Oct. 18, ready to conduct operations in support of maritime stability and security in defense of U.S., Allies, and partner interests.

Throughout the ship’s seven-month deployment, Carney successfully destroyed Houthi-launched weapons, including land attack cruise missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and unmanned systems. Additionally, Carney conducted two defensive strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, destroying 20 targets, and successfully destroyed one Iranian-launched medium-range ballistic missile.

During her visit to the ship, CNO recognized 14 Sailors for their outstanding achievements while on deployment.

“As Surface Warriors, we train to this. We train to this level of readiness and boldness, with a clear commitment to the warfighting excellence that you all exhibited on the world stage for everyone to see. You did exactly what you were trained to do,” said Franchetti. “It is absolutely wonderful to be onboard today and have the opportunity to welcome you back and give you a great big Bravo Zulu – for a job incredibly well done.”

Carney departed Naval Station Mayport, September 27, 2023, on a scheduled independent deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation. While deployed, Carney predominately operated with the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, and initially operated with the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group upon arrival to the U.S. 6th Fleet.

Source: United States Navy

CHICAGO (May 9, 2024) – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti traveled to Chicago to meet with high school Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) students from the Rickover Naval Academy, William Howard Taft High School and Corliss High School, NROTC college students in the Chicago Consortium, and community leaders, May 8-9.

The visit provided the CNO the opportunity to discuss her personal journey in the Navy and share leadership lessons, as well as to open students’ minds to what service in the Navy looks like.

“When I was in your shoes, I could never have imagined that I would be standing here today as the chief of naval operations. Life is not necessarily what we predict, and being open to possibilities that come along the way is really important,” Franchetti shared with an auditorium of nearly 500 NJROTC cadets. Paraphrasing Chester Nimitz she added, “‘learn all you can, do your best, and don’t worry about the things you can’t control,’ because you never know what opportunities are going to come your way, and if you always take advantage of the them, when doors start to open, you’ll be ready to walk through.”

Franchetti also spoke with Rickover Naval Academy faculty and members from the Chicago Board of Education and community leaders to educate them about the mission of the Navy and the value of service to the Navy and the Nation.

“Every day about 110 U.S. Navy ships and 70,000 Sailors and Marines are underway – defending our Nation, enabling the free flow of commerce and protecting sea lanes of communication,” Franchetti said. “It’s not just our ships, we operate from the seabed to space in cyberspace, and in the information environment.”

She added, “You may not think about it all the time, but freedom of the seas is really important. Ninety percent of our trade goes across the oceans. So when you order something online and it gets to your doorstep, it’s because we have a Navy out there… and it’s those Sailors and Marines that are protecting our way of life, and I couldn’t be more proud of our Navy team.”

CNO concluded her outreach visit at her alma mater of Northwestern University where she attended a cook-out with Chicago Consortium NROTC students and members of the crew team.

Franchetti told them how a chance encounter with a group of NROTC students at a cookout during her freshman year changed the course of her life. She said she stopped by to say hi and see what they were doing. They said they were NROTC students and she could compete for a scholarship and get a hundred dollars a month and free textbooks. She talked to their lieutenant, who told her more about the mission and opportunities in the Navy and she decided to sign up on the spot.

“I joined the Navy for free college, but I stayed for our mission,” Franchetti said. “I love being part of the Navy team. I love serving with amazing Sailors, amazing people all over the world, and getting to be that beacon of hope and democracy all around the world– and it has been an amazing journey.”

While visiting Northwestern University, CNO was one of seven alumni who were inducted into the 2024 Medill School of Journalism Hall of Achievement.

This was ADM Franchetti’s first trip to the Chicago region as CNO.

Source: United States Navy

EVANSTON, Ill. (May 9, 2024) – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti was one of seven alumni who were inducted into the 2024 Medill School of Journalism Hall of Achievement at Northwestern University, May 9.

This is the highest honor Medill bestows on its graduates. Franchetti offered brief remarks at the ceremony reflecting on her time at Medill and what this award means to her.

Her full remarks are below:

“Well thank you very much, and what an honor it is to be here tonight. Good evening and thank you, Dean Whitaker and Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications. It is an incredible honor for me to receive this award, but as equally important to receive it alongside these other amazing recipients. So again, what an honor to be here.

You know, I remember the day that the letter came to my house that said I was accepted to Medill. It was an amazing day, it was a dream come true. When I arrived here on campus back in September of 1981, I was ready to pursue my dream of becoming a journalist. And then a funny thing happened. I was walking around doing that check-in sheet that we had to do during freshman orientation week, and I was coming back from Patten gym and I was walking down the other side of the road, and there were some people playing football – throwing a football around in a parking lot right across from [tech]. So I stopped by to talk to them, and I asked them what they were doing, and they were NROTC students. They said they were going to be in the Navy and Marine Corps, and oh, by the way, they can give me a $100 a month, free books, and probably a scholarship. I thought, as one of six kids that sounded like a really good thing.

So I signed up on the spot. I got those free books, I got free tuition, and I got that scholarship that I really, really needed. So, it is kind of funny 38 years later, I’m now standing here as the chief of naval operations. And I think that’s in large part thanks to what I learned here at Northwestern and at Medill.

And though I never got to become the journalist that I dreamed of becoming, I think Medill gave me a really strong foundation. It taught me to ask questions, it taught me to always be curious, and it taught me how to tell a story.

So let me just tell a quick story. It’s kind of funny that we all have some memory of Professor Dick Hainey. So, I was a coxswains when I was here at Northwestern. Crew had just started up. And one of the things I did to motivate my rowers before a regatta is write them a little note every night, I’d slide it under the door before the big race. And I needed a lot of quotes. So I started writing down things that my professors would say.

One of the things Professor Hainey said – another Medill alum, he was a member for the inaugural class receiving this award. He told us one day that “not all roses open up on the same day.”

I jotted it in my book, I didn’t really think anything of it, and as I reflect on it 41 years later, I can say that sentiment became one of the most important tenets of my leadership philosophy. And it has really helped me be able to build great teams and empower people every day to bring their best to work, and accept that people – like roses – do indeed “bloom” in their own way and at their own pace.

I am confident that Professor Hainey never knew the impression he made on me, but I am forever grateful to him, and to this university for my experience, and for teaching me to respect our differences and value them as strengths and opportunities.

So, thank you very much to Medill for this great foundation that you gave me and for this incredible honor. And I want to say a remote thank you to my husband, Jim, and my daughter, Isabel – who had an AP exam today – for supporting me throughout my career … and a special thanks to Paul Lehman and Ronna Stamm, and my C-100 teammates that are here today. Thank you for your support and to all my professors – past and present – for what they did for me. Thank you very much.”

The Medill Dean, Charles Whitaker, also spoke at the ceremony.

“These seven individuals have distinguished themselves with exceptional accomplishments in their fields, from media to top brands to government,” said Medill Dean Charles Whitaker. “It is a pleasure to be able to recognize their impressive contributions with induction into the Hall of Achievement.”

Photos from the induction ceremony can be found here: