Category: United States Navy

Source: United States Navy

Thank You/Introduction

Good morning, everyone!

Admiral Houston, thank you for that kind introduction and for your leadership of our Navy nuclear team.

It is an absolute honor to be here with all of you today in beautiful New Jersey—the birthplace of the United States Submarine Force—to commission our fleet’s newest Virginia Class submarine, USS New Jersey (SSN 796).

Mayor Perry, thank you for supporting our service members and their families who are stationed, train, and work here at Naval Weapons Station Earle. And thank you for all you have done to make today possible.

Governor Murphy, thank you for your presence today and for your advocacy of our maritime services in New Jersey.

Representative Norcross, Representative Smith, and Representative Pallone, welcome and thank you for your support of our men and women in the armed forces.

President Boykin and Vice President Runkle, thank you for your partnership building the Navy our Nation needs.

Dr. DiMarco, on behalf of this crew and our Navy, thank you for serving as ship sponsor for the USS New Jersey.

In this role, you will forever be the connection between this warship, her crew, and the legacies of so many servicemembers from New Jersey.

To the crew of USS New Jersey and your families, thank you for your service and sacrifice. Our Navy families shoulder the burdens of our absence, and service in defense of our country is only possible because of the love, support, and sacrifice of our loved ones.

I am grateful to have had the support of my wife Betty and our four sons throughout my own naval career, a career in business, and now as Secretary of the Navy.

To the rest of our Navy team, the commissioning committee, and our partners in industry: thank you for your unwavering support—this commissioning was made possible only by your tireless efforts.

New Jersey and Call to Service

This modern marvel behind me is the culmination of years of hard work and collaboration amongst government, industry, and the crew.

The Navy’s newest Virginia-Class Fast Attack Submarine, USS New Jersey, is the third commissioned ship named to honor the contributions and support provided by the state of New Jersey.

Our Navy’s Submarine Force is formidable—a lethal combination of one of the most powerful platforms available today manned by our Nation’s best and brightest.

SSN 796 brings tremendous firepower to our Fleet and indeed our Nation—providing our commanders a valuable asset which strengthens our national security.

And this submarine honors not only the legacy of the ships who bore the name USS New Jersey before her—both battleships.

The first New Jersey was part of the Great White Fleet and circumnavigated the globe. Following the end of the Great War, USS New Jersey (BB 16) brought our soldiers back home from Europe.

The second New Jersey was known as the “Big J.”

She was the most decorated battleship in our Navy’s history—fighting in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

During her 47-year career, she took part the two largest naval battles in history, the Battles of the Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf, and supported the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

She received 19 battle and campaign stars, six Navy Unit Commendations, and at least 11 Meritorious Unit Citations.

This submarine also honors the legacy of the great people from New Jersey.

Because people—our Sailors and Marines—are our greatest strength, and force resilience and readiness begin and end with them.

Our Sailors, including those from New Jersey, raised their right hands to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

In turn, through their willing service and sacrifice, we as Americans wake up every day in a nation which values and protects democracy—a nation which strives every day to become a more perfect Union.

I thank the future Navy and Marine Corps Officers from Rutgers University who presented the colors for us today.

These men and women will lead our Sailors and Marines, and some, if they are lucky, may one day even serve on this submarine.

I am proud to stand here today as we welcome another “player to the field,” manned by an all-volunteer force of Sailors who have dedicated their careers and their lives in service to our Nation.

And she will honor all those from New Jersey, sailing to protect our freedom from deep below the ocean’s waves.

Closing

To the Sailors of the USS New Jersey, you are about to embark on a great adventure as you bring this ship to life.

On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you all for the work you have already done, for the sacrifices you have already made, and all that you will accomplish in the future.

May God continue to watch over this ship, her crew, their families, and may they have fair winds and following seas wherever they may sail.

Thank you.

Source: United States Navy

Remarks

Good evening, everyone! It is an honor to be here with you tonight to celebrate the 59th year of Singapore’s independence.

Ambassador Lui, thank you for inviting me for this wonderful occasion and for providing me with the opportunity to say a few words.

The summer certainly flew by, didn’t it? It seems like just yesterday we were watching the new Midshipmen, including Midshipman Fourth Class Liang Yinze Garcia, being sworn in at the Naval Academy on I-Day.

Under Secretary Lago, thank you for your career dedicated to public service and leadership at the International Trade Administration.

Assistant Secretary Kang, thank you for your important work at the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, shaping and maintaining a secure international landscape.

And I must also mention my wife Betty, who is here with us tonight and has been by my side throughout our forty years of marriage which included a naval career, a career in the private sector, and once more, service to our Navy and Marine Corps Team.

I am grateful to be here to not only celebrate Singapore’s independence, but also celebrate the strong relationship between Singapore and the United States.

Singapore is a favorite port call of our Navy and Marine Corps—from the incredible food, shopping, and nightlife to the melting pot of cultures to the memorable skylines of Marina Bay.

Our partnership crucially extends outside of the “Little Red Dot” and the U.S., into all of our shared waters.

For many years, Singapore has been a major security cooperation partner to the United States, and indeed a regional leader within both ASEAN and the larger Indo-Pacific region.

And this is critically important, because as you have seen and read in the news, we face tremendous uncertainty in the world today.

Together, Singapore and the United States have a steadfast strategic relationship—across numerous spheres—and we share a common and significant interest in preserving the rules-based international order.

Alongside our partners, Singapore participated in Operation Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea to deter further escalation and protect innocent commercial shipping against Iranian-aligned Houthi attacks.

At the same time, Singapore—like the United States—supported relief efforts and aided affected civilians in Gaza.

The United States and Singapore are also dedicated to improving our ability to collaborate and operate with partners.

This year, we conducted the 29th iteration of the world’s largest international maritime exercise, our biennial Rim of the Pacific—or RIMPAC—Exercise.

Held in the waters off Hawaii, RIMPAC 2024 included 29 nations, 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft, and more than twenty-five thousand personnel!

This year, the Republic of Singapore Navy led a task unit of Republic of Korea, Mexico, and United States ships, and we were proud to sail alongside the RSN’s Formidable-class frigate RSS Stalwart.

During the exercise, RSS Stalwart successfully launched two Aster surface-to-air missiles at high-speed drone targets, neutralizing both simulated missile targets and validating key anti-air warfare capabilities and tactics.

Our Navy’s cooperation with Singapore also occurs within the classroom.

Our Naval Academy Midshipmen have the privilege of attending Nanyang Technological University as semester exchange students, and our Navy and Marine Corps Naval Postgraduate students have the unique opportunity to study at the National University of Singapore’s Temasek Defence Systems Institute.

I should note that my son John attended National University of Singapore for a summer exchange and studied wastewater electrolysis.

The United States has, since 1992, enjoyed hosting Republic of Singapore Navy Midshipmen at my alma mater, the United States Naval Academy.

Twelve years ago, Midshipman—now Lieutenant Colonel—Sam Tan wrote a new chapter in our Naval Academy history and yours!

Sam graduated number one in the Great Class of 2012, the first international Midshipman to receive the honor.

It was wonderful to host him once more during RIMPAC this year as the Commanding Officer of RSS Stalwart.

It is my sincere hope that the partnership between Singapore and the United States continues to grow, especially amidst the uncertainty and challenges we face in the world today.

Ambassador Lui, I thank you again for inviting me tonight, and for all you do to further this ironclad relationship between Singapore and the United States.

Again, it is an honor to be with you all this evening. May God continue to grant our nations and our people with fair winds and following seas.

Happy National Day, and Majulah Singapore!

Source: United States Navy

PACIFIC OCEAN — Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 deployed with the 13^th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) aboard the Essex Amphibious Ready Group in 2018, marking the first combat deployment of the F-35B Lightning II. This deployment demonstrated the effectiveness of amphibious forces when the Marine Corps’ fifth generation fighter capabilities were integrated aboard the Navy’s amphibious assault ships.

Since returning from the first F-35B deployment in 2019, VMFA-211 has continued to play a crucial role in refining tactics and expanding the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to project power. In 2024, VMFA-211 completed a series of exercises with the America-class amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) which enhanced both units’ readiness and interoperability.

From April 9-11, 2024, U.S. Marines and Sailors of VMFA-211 partnered with the Tripoli to conduct three days of training in Yuma, Arizona, as part of the aviation certification (AVCERT) syllabus. The AVCERT ensures that flight deck crews can safely launch and recover aircraft and are prepared to handle emergencies on the flight deck.

Flight deck crew received classes about the F-35B, and ground instruction from senior Landing Signal Officers, pilots who specialize in guiding aircraft to safe and expeditious landings aboard ship. Tripoli flight deck crews launched F-35Bs from the simulated deck of an amphibious assault ship at the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range while VMFA-211 pilots rehearsed procedures for carrier landings.

Three months later, VMFA-211, alongside tilt-rotor and rotary wing squadrons from 3rd MAW, landed F-35B aircraft aboard the Tripoli during day and night operations, July 14-18, culminating in the ship’s successful AVCERT.

“This training gives us an opportunity to get to know each other and how we operate together on the flight deck,” said U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Lawrence Pivec, a member of the Tripoli air department’s V-1 division, responsible for moving aircraft on the flight deck. “We get out here and fly together as much as possible, so we are ready when the call comes.”

Training at-sea enhanced readiness for both the Tripoli and 3rd MAW squadrons. During the AVCERT process, 3rd MAW pilots gained or refreshed flight deck landing qualifications. Two VMFA-211 pilots achieved the day and night carrier qualification. VMFA-211 progressed a pilot from basic to advanced LSO— a role critical for future deployments – and made progress toward creating an additional basic LSO. LSOs help coordinate the complex flight deck environment and are essential for safety during high-tempo amphibious operations. 

“The flight deck is very dynamic and can be a dangerous place, so it is imperative that we ensure the personnel on the deck are trained and qualified to safely operate around the aircraft,” said Maj. Courtenay Franklin, an F-35B pilot and aviation safety officer with VMFA-211.

From Sept. 30 to Oct. 4, VMFA-211 conducted training aboard the Tripoli once more, recertifying the flight deck.

The F-35B Lightning II, known for its short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, is uniquely suited for operations from amphibious assault ships such as the Tripoli.

“It is important to have a joint understanding of the standard procedures that go into landing aboard a ship and ship operations,” said Capt. Leland Raymond, an F-35B pilot with VMFA-211. “Having this experience on the LHA [landing helicopter assault class] will translate to any other ship we go on and allows us to practice those standard procedures. It translates across the Navy.”

The multi-role, stealth capabilities of the F-35B when paired with the capabilities of the U.S. Navy’s largest amphibious warfare ships, like the Tripoli, offers unmatched operational flexibility, from close air support and interdiction to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

Third MAW’s F-35B squadrons routinely deploy aboard amphibious assault ships as the aviation combat element of Marine Expeditionary Units to the Indo-Pacific region in support of combatant commander requirements. The mutually beneficial training between VMFA-211 and the Tripoli is a testament to each unit’s commitment to interoperability and readiness to deploy at any moment.

“This is building confidence in our Navy-Marine Corps team,” Raymond said.” We are all aligned in our goals for successful future deployments.”

Source: United States Navy

PORT HUENEME, Calif. — Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (IT2) Donovan Asberry, performed CPR on a crash victim on the I-5 freeway in Downey, potentially saving the man’s life. The incident occurred on August 19th 2024 when IT2 Asberry, driving home from work, noticed a car collide with the freeway median. After pulling over and observing the driver breathing abnormally, IT2 Asberry, alongside other concerned motorists, took immediate action to help.

IT2 Asberry, who had a recent CPR certification, noticed the driver exhibiting unusual breathing patterns. “It was a deep breath followed by pauses. I hadn’t seen anything like it, not even in movies,” IT2 Asberry recalled. Acting quickly, he and another bystander worked together to break the car window, unlock the doors, and pull the driver to safety.

Emergency responders arrived after 30 minutes of IT2 Asberry administering chest compressions. According to paramedics on the scene, the driver’s pulse was weak but present, and they credited IT2 Asberry’s quick thinking and persistence with helping keep the man alive.

“I’m just glad I was there at the right time,” said IT2 Asberry , reflecting on the ordeal. “It’s a reminder of how important it is to be ready to help others when you can.”

The crash occurred in Downey, impacting traffic on the busy freeway for hours as authorities cleared the scene. Witnesses described the incident as chaotic but were inspired by the efforts of civilians who intervened.

IT2 Asberry’s actions are a testament to the value of CPR training, a skill that, as he learned, can make the difference between life and death.

IT2 Asberry’s efforts serve as a powerful reminder of community responsibility and readiness, and highlighting how training can be crucial in emergency situations.

Source: United States Navy

SAN DIEGO — Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC) bids fair winds and following seas to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) as it made its last departure from the San Diego Bay today. The ship will transit to the East Coast, where it will be deactivated and removed from service.

Christened in 1989, Pecos served as part of the MSC fleet for 35 years. During its career, Pecos served in the Persian Gulf during both Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom.

In 2006 Pecos deployed with the MSC Hospital Ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) for five-months, delivering aid and humanitarian assistance to the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, following the humanitarian assistance missions in the wake of the tsunami in Indonesia. Missions like this evolved into what is now known as the Pacific Partnership missions. These missions continue to provide medical and humanitarian assistance, while building international friendships throughout Southeast Asia.

In 2011, following the deadly earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Pecos rendezvoused with United States Seventh Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) near Kyushu, Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi. Blue Ridge transferred 96 pallets of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material to Pecos for delivery to the Essex Amphibious Group and Carrier Strike Group 5. The pallets consisted of water containers and water purification tablets, first-aid products, tarpaulins, blankets, and other supplies. During her support effort to Operation Tomodachi, Pecos completed nine underway replenishments and delivered more than 2.3 million U.S. gallons of fuel to other supporting ships.

On November 28, 2018, the United States Navy sent Pecos and guided missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106) through the Taiwan Strait as a demonstration of the “U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Most recently, Pecos provided logistics support to the multi-national maritime exercise, Rim of the Pacific 2024, delivering nearly 4 million gallons of diesel fuel and 2.2 million gallons of jet fuel through 36 underway replenishment events.

“This ship and its crew have answered all bells, time and time again. ” said Capt. Micah Murphy, commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC). “The ship’s longstanding success, highlighted by this year’s RIMPAC, is really a testament to the professional mariners abilities, dedication to duty, and relentless pursuit of quality customer service to the fleet. It is fitting that one of the longest tenured Masters in MSC, Captain Keith Walzak, was at the helm during the last phase of this ship’s prolific career, capping off a storied career for them both. While it is sad to see a ship’s service end, it is special to be here to say fair winds and following seas to a ship as rich in MSC history as Pecos. Her spirit will live on in the new John Lewis class of oilers that her crew embarks and brings to life.”

Ahead of Pecos’ departure, Murphy and the MSCPAC team boarded the ship and took a moment to recognize members of the crew, for their outstanding support to the MSC mission, specifically to RIMPAC 2024, and to honor the retirement of Capt. Keith Walzak, Pecos’ civil service master, as he brings to end a 45-year career with MSC.

“I have served on a lot of ships during my career, but Pecos will be the one I really remember,” Walzak said as he addressed the crew. “I might remember this ship, because it is my last, and will be foremost on my mind, but I think I will also remember it, because of the hard work and dedication of all of you. We have a real team here, and that is why we were able to work through a lot of the challenges we’ve had, and to do the great work we’ve done this summer. I am proud of each and every one of you, and I am proud to have served with you.”

Walzak graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1980 and was recruited directly into MSC. Over the course of his career, Walzak served 40 ship assignments, 30 as ship’s master. He is the Plank owner of USNS Butte (T-AE 27), USNS Mount Baker (T-AE 34), and USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14), the latter as the first master, something he considers a career highlight.

“Looking over my whole career, I would have to say that one of the most memorable moments would have to be in 2012, standing on the dais with my wife, as USNS Cesar Chavez, the last-AKE built, was being christened and launched into San Diego Bay, as the first Master on the last T-AKE,” said Walzak.

On behalf of the Secretary of the Navy, Murphy presented Walzak with the Civilian Meritorious Civilian Service Award for his, support to RIMPAC 2024.

“In 45 years of service I have gotten two certificates from the Secretary of the Navy,” joked Walzak. “The first was my discharge from the Navy Ready Reserve, and this one, that I received today. I appreciate the recognition, and I’m proud to have had the opportunity to serve with MSC and to have had the long career that I’ve had. I’ve seen a lot, done a lot, and now I am ready to do whatever my wife wants me to do. She’s spent 41 years waiting for this day. We will travel about, visit family, and get in some relaxation time.”

Pecos is one of the 15 ships of the Henry J. Kaiser class fleet replenishment oilers which are operated by Military Sealift Command. As the class ages out of the MSC fleet, it is being replaced by the new John Lewis class which includes USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205), USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206) and USNS Earl Warren (T-AO 207), all currently operating under MSC.

MSC directs and supports operations for approximately 140 civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships at sea, conduct specialized missions, preposition combat cargo at sea around the world, perform a variety of support services, and move military equipment and supplies to deployed U.S. forces. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and reserve military personnel.