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BELCONNEN NAVAL TRANSMITTING STATION REMEDIATION

Tuesday, 30 September 2008

Defence will fully fund the remediation of the Belconnen Naval Transmitting Station site and adhere to the high standards required by ACT and Commonwealth environment legislation, including the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.

The clean-up of the site will address potential risks to human health and the environment.

No decision has yet been made on the disposal location for contaminated materials removed from the site. Any discussion on possible disposal sites is purely speculative.

The site remediation plan and associated rehabilitation plan will protect the grasslands as well as the sun moth and legless lizard populations. The work is planned to begin in November 2008 and take approximately six months to complete.

Defence will work closely with the ACT environmental authorities over the implementation of the remediation plan.

The remediation and rehabilitation plans for the areas around the former towers have been referred to the Department of Environment, Heritage, Water and the Arts.

Defence will undertake a community information program with a website and phone line in place before the remediation works begin. Updates during the remediation process, and the results of investigations of the site will be available to the public through the website.

Defence has tested Ginninderra Creek in January 2008 and found no evidence of contamination from the site above the Australian standard levels.

Testing of soils, groundwater, surface water and sediments at the site in January 2008 shows that no offsite migration of contaminants above Australian standards is occurring.

The contamination should not pose any concern to nearby residents as it is contained on site.

The former Belconnen Naval Transmitting Station was decommissioned in 2005 as part of Defence’s High Frequency Modernisation Project and is surplus to requirements.

Under the Commonwealth’s Property Disposals Policy, the site will be disposed of following completion of due diligence investigations and contamination remediation.

The site is programmed for disposal in 2010/11.

The site has significant heritage and natural values associated with its role as a Naval Transmitting Station since 1938 and the listed Natural Temperate Grasslands which occur there. These values will be protected into the future by a Heritage and Environmental Management Plan.

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NTSB MARINE SAFETY COURSE STILL OPEN FOR REGISTRATION

NTSB ADVISORY

National Transportation Safety Board
Washington, DC 20594

September 30, 2008

The National Transportation Safety Board's course, Accident
Investigation Orientation for Marine Professionals (MS 301),
scheduled for October 7-8, 2008, at the NTSB Training Center
in Ashburn, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.), still has
openings for interested mid- to senior-level marine industry
professionals.

The course covers the Safety Board's processes and
procedures during a major marine accident and the role of an
investigation participant or "party". This is the first time
the Safety Board has ever offered this program as a stand-
alone course.

A more complete description of the course, the registration
process and the cost may be found at the NTSB Training
Center Web site at:

http://www.ntsb.gov/Academy/CourseInfo/MS301_2008.htm

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Several U.S. Ships Join Mission to Monitor Faina

From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Several U.S. ships are now operating in the vicinity of Motor Vessel Faina, the Belize-flagged cargo ship, which was captured Sept. 25 and is anchored off the coast of Somalia near the harbor city of Hobyo.
The U.S. 5th Fleet continues to actively monitor the situation.

"We will maintain a vigilant watch over the ship and remain on station while negotiations take place," said Rear Adm. Kendall Card, task force commander leading the efforts to prevent the weapons aboard M/V Faina from being offloaded from the ship.

"Our goal is to ensure the safety of the crew, to not allow off-loading of dangerous cargo and to make certain Faina can return to legitimate shipping."

This incident highlights the complexity of the situation in the region. MV Faina is owned and operated by "Kaalybe Shipping Ukraine" and is carrying a cargo of T-72 tanks and related equipment. Its crew is comprised of citizens from Ukraine, Russia and Latvia. There is no indication that the ship had a security team aboard.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.

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Chief of Naval Operations Releases Voting Message

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Rebekah Blowers, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) discussed the importance of voting in a podcast released Sept. 30.

"For our Sailors and our families, get to the polls and vote. If you can't get there, make sure that you're working with your voting assistance officers to ensure that you can have an absentee ballot and be able to vote that way," Adm. Gary Roughead, CNO, said.

CNO reminded Sailors and their families that it is their Constitutional right as American citizens to vote for the candidate they would like to be their commander in chief.

"Our role is to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic and to abide and obey the orders of the commander in chief, regardless of who that commander in chief may be. We have to keep that in mind. That's what the American people expect of us, and that's the code by which we live," Roughead said.

CNO encouraged Sailors and their families to make sure they are registered to vote, especially if they are using an absentee ballot. Go to www.fvap.org for registration, absentee ballots and information about voting.

To hear more of the CNO's message, visit www.navy.mil.

For more news from the Chief of Naval Operations, visit www.navy.mil/local/cno.

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Sea Services' Religious Diversity Reflection of Society

From Chief of Chaplains Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Like the nation, the Navy is extremely diverse. The term diversity encompasses not only the categories of race, age, gender and national origin, but also religion.

Religion helps people understand their places in the world and how their military duties are part of their larger perspectives on life.

"Many of us find a great deal of compatibility between our religious beliefs and the Navy's core values of honor courage and commitment," said Rear Adm. Alan T. Baker, chief of chaplains. "The majority of Sailors and Department of Navy civilians embrace religion in their efforts to be healthy people and good citizens."

This September, Muslims around the world observed Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting in which they make a special effort to be true to themselves and act unselfishly. They contemplated their faith, spend less time in worrying about every day life and take special care to give charitably to the poor.

On Sept. 29 Jews celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. They observe Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, 10 days later. On this, the most solemn day of the Jewish year, they ask forgiveness for broken promises to God.

"Spiritual celebrations play a profound role. Celebrations such as Ramadan and Rosh Hashanah exemplify the richness of our religious expression." said Baker. "They give us an opportunity to re-examine who we have become and what we have done with our lives."

Many Sailors and Marines identify with established religions and religious faith expressions, yet a growing number of young people see spirituality differently. The most recent Religious Faith Code data released in June reveals more than 75 percent of Sailors and Marines list some religious preference. Navy personnel identify themselves with more than 109 different faith groups in the Religious Faith Code Report.

They draw from multiple traditions to form their own spiritual expressions. Many of them have a concept of a higher power and witness its influence on their lives yet do not identify with traditional faith groups. They see religion or spirituality as something they draw on as needed, to help them through difficult moments or to mark significant achievements.

"Our diversity of religious beliefs requires more than a mere awareness of a person's spirituality…we need an environment that respects and accommodates religious expression," said Baker. "Navy chaplains and religious program specialists are uniquely positioned to help commanding officers meet the spiritual needs of Sailors. They are trained in accommodation, sensitive to all religious expressions and are the command experts in communicating with religious organizations and faith communities."

Currently, more than 800 active component Navy chaplains represent more than 90 faith groups.

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.

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Peruvian Sub BAP Arica Completes Successful U.S. Deployment

By Lt. Kevin A. Beatley, Commander Submarine Force Assistant Diesel-Electric Submarine Initiative Program Manager

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Peruvian Submarine BAP Arica (SS-36) recently completed a successful deployment to the U.S. East Coast to participate in various submarine training exercises and events while supporting the U.S. Navy Diesel-Electric Submarine Initiative (DESI).

BAP Arica was in the United States to extend Peru's focus on partner-nation interaction and training and operated in the area throughout the spring and summer. Her 142-day deployment was the seventh consecutive Peruvian submarine deployment in support of DESI, making Peru the longest participant in the program to date and demonstrating the capabilities of their modern submarine force.

Arica's deployment was highlighted by participation in the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) Carrier Strike Group's Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) along with other foreign vessels. She proved to be a formidable adversary and brought realism to the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training events allowing all units to gain experience operating against a quiet platform.

BAP Arica also participated as opposition force (OPFOR) in the USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) Expeditionary Strike Group's COMPTUEX where she was crucial in completing theater ASW training objectives. When not training with an entire CSG or ESG, Arica flawlessly conducted trials at the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC) as well as provided a target platform for the ASW Helicopter Squadrons based out of Mayport, Florida.

In port, the crew of Arica enjoyed the hospitality of Mayport Naval Station and Kings Bay Submarine Base where the crew rested and completed minor maintenance for their successful underway operations. They honed their tactical skills during the port visit to Kings Bay when the crew had the opportunity to utilize the training facilities at the Trident Training Facility. Throughout their stay in the United States, the crew was able to foster friendly relationships with U.S. personnel, furthering the success of this bilateral program and ensuring successful future joint operations between the two navies.

Arica departed Mayport in route to Callao, Peru, Aug. 11 and has completed a port visit to U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, making her the first submarine to visit Guantanamo Bay in more than 15 years.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, visit www.navy.mil/local/sublant/.

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Mercy Skipper Posts Final Weblog Entry

By Bill Doughty, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

ABOARD USNS MERCY (NNS) -- The commanding officer of USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) brought the ship's log into the 21st century with his Skipper's Scrivenings Weblog, which wrapped up Sept. 28 at the conclusion of Pacific Partnership 2008.

Capt. Bob Wiley's blog, which began in May, featured updates of the Navy's humanitarian civic assistance mission as Mercy visited the Philippines, Vietnam, Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and Micronesia. Military service members, non-governmental organizations and other volunteers built schools and roads, provided medical and dental care, offered veterinary services and made friends.

"It has been such a privilege to be able to take a ship built for war and to use it for such a tremendous instrument of peace," said Wiley in his final blog posting of Skipper's Scrivenings.

Wiley's postings throughout the summer offered a behind-the-scenes look at life aboard Mercy, from promotions on the bridge to surgeries in the operating room, as well as a philosopher's insight into the reasons for the mission.

"It used to be said America was protected from the world's ills and troubles by the vastness of two oceans," Wiley wrote. "This is no longer the case. With today's modern transportation and communication systems, the oceans no longer separate from the rest of the world, if anything they join us together! The places that used to be 'way over there' are getting closer to us every day. The neighborhood is shrinking - and like all good neighbors, we must trust and depend on each other."

Readers posted comments on Wiley's blog. Many came from grateful parents, former Mercy shipmates or recipients of Pacific Partnership services.

On Sept. 1 "Nenginin" of Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia, wrote a comment.

"Even after your departure today, we are still amazed when we think back to what you and everyone on the PP08 team did for the people of Chuuk," said Nenginin. "The sight of the beautiful Mercy in the Chuuk Lagoon will forever live in our hearts."

Other postings came from Africa, Australia and from throughout North America.

"Captain Bob, we just wanted to thank you for having a blog so we can keep track of where you are and what you are doing," wrote "Jan and Jack" on June 17. "Our daughter is aboard your ship, and it gives us great joy to know where she is and the great work she is a part of."

Highlights of Wiley's blog were the dozens of photos and heartfelt stories he shared about patients whose lives were transformed and saved by Pacific Partnership.

In his wrap-up entry Wiley, a career mariner with the Military Sealift Command, thanked those who supported his blog, and talked about measuring the success of Pacific Partnership 2008.

"It's not simply about numbers," he wrote. "First and foremost, this mission was about diplomacy. It was about building relationships with the people who we share this immense span of ocean we call the Pacific. As a mariner, I have spent most of the last 32 years sailing these waters. I have come to know these people as if they were regular neighbors. And I know it's the relationships between neighbors that will build the foundation for a good neighborhood."

The Navy's humanitarian/civic assistance and disaster relief missions, part of the Maritime Strategy, demonstrates the need to build cooperation in a world joined, not separated, by oceans.

To read Wiley's Skipper's Scrivenings blog, visit www.cpf.navy.mil and click on Pacific Partnership 2008.

For more news from Pacific Partnership 2008, visit www.navy.mil/local/PP08/.

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Kauffman Sailors Help Clinic in Guatemala

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class J.T. Bolestridge, Destroyer Squadron 40 Public Affairs

PUERTO BARRIOS, Guatemala (NNS) -- Sailors from USS Kauffman (FFG 59), Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 Detachment Seven and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 40 completed a community relations (COMREL) project Sep. 26 at the Entre Rios Health Center in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala.

During the day long outreach project, DESRON 40 Chaplain Lt. Joe Molina and Kauffman's Navy Counselor 1st Class (SW/SCW) James O'Brien led 25 volunteers in the cleaning and painting of the interior and entrance of the health center, a 1,500 square-foot facility which provides care to over 14,000 Guatemalans living in the rural area of Puerto Barrios.

Giving to those less fortunate and sharing in the culture of host nations fits directly in with the Partnership of Americas 2008 (POA 08) mission of strengthening regional partnerships.

"COMRELs are important because they provide us a chance to show the people around the world that we really do care about them," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Brandon Bloomberg. "It gives us a better understanding of how people in other nations live their lives."

Yeoman 2nd Class Reid Lundie volunteered for the project in Puerto Barrios and said his hands-on efforts directly supported theater security cooperation goals.

"We're here to continue to strengthen our partnerships with Central America," said Lundie. "Being out in the community and helping others that need our help directly contributes to that partnership."

In addition to the work the volunteers accomplished at the clinic, U.S. Sailors also brought Project Handclasp donations of first aid and hygiene products to the clinic. The health center nurse and administrator, Gloria Diaz, said she was impressed with the work of the U.S. Sailors and appreciative of the donations.

"This is my first experience working with US military assistance. You are a great, hard working team and your help to us is very timely," said Diaz. "These hygiene and first aid donations will go a long way in assisting the community that we love."

Project Handclasp is an official Chief of Naval Operations' program, which coordinates transportation and delivery of donated humanitarian, educational and goodwill material. Through the cooperation of numerous donors, Project Handclasp has been able to ship approximately 1.5 million pounds of charitable materials overseas annually for the past several years. Kate Thomas, the Puerto Barrios health center physician, said the donated goods will be a great benefit to the clinic.

"What a great help to the community! This provides much needed help and fills the gap in funding and assistance from our government due to lack of resources," said Thomas. "I appreciate your initiative and all the hard work in making this possible."

USS Kauffman, with HSL-42 Detachment 7 embarked, and USS Farragut are assigned to Destroyer Squadron 40 and are deployed in support of POA 08 operations which are being held from April to October throughout South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. POA 08, sponsored by U.S. Southern Command and implemented by U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO)/U.S. 4th Fleet, emphasizes interoperability and cooperation between U.S. and partner nation's maritime forces through a variety of exercises and events.

For more news from Partnership of the Americas, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusns.

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Submarine Missouri Reaches First Major Milestone

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Dean Lohmeyer, Commander Submarine Force Public Affairs

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (NNS) -- The Virginia-class attack submarine USS Missouri (SSN 780) reached her first major milestone Sept. 27, during her keel authentication ceremony held at the General Dynamics Electric Boat facility in North Kingstown.

Caesar S. DeSanto Sr. welded the initials of Rebecca W. Gates onto a plate of steel to symbolize the authentication of the keel. Gates, the wife of Secretary of Defense, Robert M. Gates, is the sponsor for Missouri, the seventh Virginia-class submarine to join the fleet.

U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, was the principal speaker for the ceremony.

"All Missourians can take pride that a namesake to the 'Mighty Mo' will soon be joining the fleet, this time in the silent service," said Skelton, in a reference to the World War II-era battleship USS Missouri (BB 63).

Skelton thanked Gates for accepting the role of sponsor for the fifth ship to bear the name USS Missouri.

"Being a sponsor is not a one- or two-ceremony job," added Skelton. "This is your ship" - he spoke of Missouri's initial manning crew, who were standing in formation next to the stage - "These are your Sailors. A sponsor may stay as involved as she wishes with her ship, and I hope that you do."

Skelton, who has represented Missouri's 4th Congressional District since 1977, pointed out that many of the Sailors that will haul down Missouri's commissioning pennant when the submarine is decommissioned more than three decades from now won't be born for another five to 10 years.

"Our submarine force is built upon a strong legacy of selecting and training the best people, building and maintaining the best ships, and equipping those ships with the latest technology and most advanced equipment," said Commander Submarine Force Vice Adm. John Donnelly.

"Today, Missouri will complete a significant milestone toward adding to that legacy. She will join her sister ships of the Virginia class to provide a huge leap forward in capabilities to accomplish new missions in this new century."

Chairman of the USS Missouri Commissioning Committee Sam Bushman attended the ceremony.

"I think it's wonderful," said Bushman, a small business owner from Missouri's capital of Jefferson City. "We had ships named Missouri in the Navy during the 19th and 20th centuries, and it's nice to have a new Missouri joining the fleet again in the 21st century."

Cmdr. Dale F. Green, officer in charge of Pre-Commissioning Unit Missouri, was happy to see the ship reach this first of three major milestones. The other two milestones are christening and commissioning ceremonies.

"We consider it to be an honor to be the able to continue the great history the name USS Missouri brings to the fleet," said Green. "We try to fold a lot of USS Missouri history into what we do on the ship, using one of the guiding principles of the chiefs mess – heritage – in our everyday activities."

While most keel authentication ceremonies are attended by only a few crew members, Green brought his entire crew to Rhode Island for this ceremony.

"We've tried to make this a very big deal for the crew, which is why our entire crew was here today," said Green. "We wanted them to understand that this was a very big deal. It's important for the first crew to be molded into the team that's building the ship."

The other two members of the triad building Missouri are General Dynamics Electric Boat, Groton, Conn., and Northrop-Grumman Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., who have a teaming agreement to share construction of the first 10 of a planned 30 Virginia-class submarines.

"Between the three of us, we will form what the ship is going to be, from the steel to the people," added Green. "This is really a shipyard thing today, but it was important for me to get the crew involved, to get them invested in it. To a man, everyone was excited about being a part of the ceremony."

The first ship to bear the name USS Missouri was a combination steam/sail vessel commissioned in 1842, only 21 years after the state was admitted to the union. The second Missouri was a side-wheel steamer that saw service for the Confederate Navy on the Mississippi River during the Civil War. The third Missouri (BB 11), a battleship commissioned in 1903, participated in President Theodore Roosevelt's Great White Fleet that made an around-the-world tour displaying U.S. naval power Dec. 16, 1907 to Feb. 22, 1909.

The most recent and perhaps most famous ship to bear the name Missouri was an Iowa-class battleship (BB 63). The ship saw nearly continuous combat action from her arrival in the Pacific theater in 1944 to hosting the Japanese surrender ceremony in Tokyo Bay that ended World War II Sept. 2, 1945. The ship later saw service in the Korean War before being decommissioned in 1955. She returned to active naval service in 1986 and fired some of the first strikes of the first Persian Gulf War. She was decommissioned again in 1992 and is now a floating museum in Pearl Harbor.

The submarine Missouri is expected to join the fleet during a commissioning ceremony in the summer of 2010.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Force, visit www.navy.mil/local/sublant/.

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Combined Task Force 53 Maintains Supply Lines

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matt Snodgrass, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Combined Task Force 53 (CTF-53) provides operational logistical support for the U.S. 5th Fleet and coalition forces both ashore and afloat, a mission that is essential for ensuring security and stability in the region.

CTF-53 coordinates replenishment-at-sea efforts and delivers passengers, mail, cargo, ammunition, provisions and fuel throughout the 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) via air, land and sea modes, helping to ensure Sailors aboard ships have what they need to complete their missions.

"By handling the logistics in the 5th Fleet area of operation, CTF-53 allows the warfighter to rest assured that the logistics and sealift support needed to execute will be available anytime, anywhere," said Capt. Steve Kelley who is responsible for all CTF-53 assets.

CTF-53 was established in 1992 to perform operational logistical coordination and given tactical control over all assigned logistics forces. In 2005, CTF-53 combined with Military Sealift Command Central to provide oversight for more than 50 strategic sealift ships in the 5th Fleet AOO.

"Combining the two commands made the mission of supplying the 5th Fleet ships more efficient and enabled them to do their job better," said Kelley.
To transport the cargo and personnel that the 5th Fleet needs, CTF-53 utilizes various aircraft to conduct their mission.

"We have MH-60 Knight Hawk helicopters, MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters and various cargo aircraft, such as C-130, C-40, C-12 and C-2," said Lt.j.g. Andrew Haley. "Each aircraft performs specific tasks that enable us to get personnel, equipment and supplies where they need to be."

During the course of any given week, CTF-53 moves 407,000 pounds of cargo, 47,000 lbs. of mail and 730 passengers in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

"CTF-53 plays a vital role in supporting Maritime Security Operations as well as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom," said Lt. Kristen Christensen, a force protection officer for CTF-53.

"Keeping 5th Fleet ships supplied allows them to remain at sea and provide invaluable support for coalition forces operating on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan."

Sailors serving at sea rely on steady supplies in order to effectively conduct their missions. CTF-53 helps ensure those serving at sea have the food, water, fuel, armament and essential supplies that keep their mission readiness at its peak.

MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.

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Rescued Climber's Family Thanks Whidbey SAR Crew

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Northwest

OAK HARBOR, Wash. (NNS) -- The family of a young climber showed their appreciation to the Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island Search and Rescue (SAR) crew who performed the rescue at Hangar 1 on NAS Whidbey Island Sept. 26.

Jake Patterson was climbing with his friend Jeff Robinson on Mount Deception in the northeast Olympic Mountains July 4 when he received serious injuries falling off a 100-foot ridge. Ground rescue wasn't an option due to the rugged terrain, so, initially, a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles attempted the rescue, but was unable to maneuver into position.

"That rescue that day involved the Coast Guard trying to get in multiple times in the daylight and couldn't do it. Then, it got dark; so now it's really hard. They called us and said they couldn't get in there because they couldn't do it with night vision goggles (NVGs)," said Capt. Gerral David, NAS Whidbey Island commanding officer.

"So, we have this crew go in at night with one side of the aircraft using NVGs, the other using lights," continued David. "They took the helicopter so far in the only way out was straight back."

The crew who performed the rescue included Lt. Cmdr. Werner Rauchenstein, Lt. Patrick Smith, Chief Hospital Corpsman (AW/FMF/PJ/NAC) Greg Highfill, Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 1st Class (AW/NAC) Chad Lewis, and Aviation Warfare Systems Operator 2nd Class (AW/NAC) Chris Wedding. Highfill was lowered to the victim and detached from the aircraft to evaluate and give medical assistance before being hauled back up to the MH-60S Knighthawk with Patterson. Patterson was then transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Patterson's father, Nate, a retired Navy captain and surgeon, pinned an air medal on each of the crew members during an awards ceremony. Patterson's family also presented them with a picture of Jake and Jeff in their climbing regalia.

"If anything, I've learned it's not going to work without the person who changes the oil, or cleans the windshield … every single one of you here, from the bottom of my heart for my family and the Robinsons, thank you. It doesn't sound like much, but from the bottom of my heart, thank you," said Nate.

"They put their lives at risk to save my son, somebody they didn't even know. How do you thank someone for that? I can never be grateful enough," said Selene Patterson, Jake's mother.

SAR crews do not have the opportunity to get feedback from more of the rescues they conduct. They were very appreciative of the visit and glad to see Jake was doing well.

"Personally I feel Jake's presence, his ability to be here, far exceeded receiving the award," said Rauchenstein. "Saving lives sounds really good and being face-to-face with the person you've had a direct impact on is pretty cool."

For more news from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, visit

www.navy.mil/local/naswhidbey/.

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USS Ford Returns Home to Everett

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Scott Dagendesh, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Northwest

EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- USS Ford (FFG 54) returned from a five-month deployment to her homeport at Naval Station Everett Sept. 28.

While deployed to the eastern Pacific, Ford, along with USS Jarrett (FFG 33) and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) participated in Combined Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), a series of exercises intended to bring about stronger international relations with many Southeastern Asian nations.

"[We] were able to visit Thailand, the Philippines, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan," said Ens. Anthony Smith. "While we were in these countries, we participated in bilateral naval exercises, both in port and underway, which focused on interoperability between us and them, as well as between themselves."

Sailors received training for a variety of situations including anti-piracy, disaster relief, visit, board, search, and seizure tactics, multi-ship tactics, and anti-submarine operations.

"This was a very successful deployment," said Ford's Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Donald Eddleman. "We did about 30 [community relations] projects which included everything from handing out soccer balls and books to barbeque events. Our crew did something each day and promoted good relations with the people of the host nations. Each Sailor was an outstanding ambassador for the United States and the Navy."

"While we were in port, we had a wide variety of activities for the Sailors," said Commanding Officer, Cmdr. John Wilshusen. "We make an effort to get involved with multiple community relations-type projects. About 40 to 50 of my crew members were involved at any given time working with an orphanage, schools, hospitals, cleaning up parks or distributing toys which had been donated. The Sailors had a good time doing all those things and it's fun to watch."

Sailors aboard Ford encountered various challenges while at sea.

"We worked with six different navies in a span of approximately three and-a-half months, said Wilshusen. "Each navy had different capabilities, different language barriers and so on. It was a great challenge, but the crew overcame. Now the Sailors are able to enjoy a much needed rest."

Ford is the 48th ship of the Oliver Hazard Perry class frigates. The ship was named after Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Patrick Osborne Ford, who served in Vietnam as a patrol boat gunner, and received the Navy Cross.

For more news from Naval Station Everett, visit www.navy.mil/local/everett/.

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Navy Professional Reading Program "2.0" Previewed Aboard PCU Stockdale

By Lt. j.g. Jeffrey White, Pre-Commissioning Unit Stockdale Public Affairs

BATH, Maine (NNS) -- A week after returning from its initial sea trials, Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Stockdale's (DDG 106) crew received the updated version of the Navy Professional Reading Program (NPRP) book collection Sept. 25.

While NPRP will officially roll out version "2.0" in October, Stockdale was selected to receive an advanced preview, bringing the program to one of the Navy's newest ships.

First introduced to the fleet in October 2006 aboard the Navy's oldest ship, USS Constitution, NPRP has reached thousands of Sailors and officers in the fleet and ashore, encouraging a lifelong habit of reading and learning.

The second version of the program changes five books, all selected by the Chief of Naval Operations, within the collection. These updates to the program reflect the changing world and growing challenges the United States faces.

Professor John Jackson, the NPRP program manager, based at the Naval War College in Newport, R.I., presented the updated collection to prospective Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Fred Kacher. Dr. Jim Stockdale, Vice Adm. James B. Stockdale's oldest son, also attended the ceremony.

"Today, we have the honor to be the first ship to receive this newest edition of a collection of books that celebrate the values and history of the greatest Navy of the world," said Kacher.

"Admiral Stockdale's study of philosophy, political systems and world events – all topics touched on in this collection – better enabled him to resist and outsmart his captors and most importantly lead the other POWs during his seven-and-a-half-year imprisonment."

One of the Navy's most decorated officers, Stockdale was awarded the Medal of Honor and four Silver Stars for his heroic leadership and resistance as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. Stockdale relied on the principles he learned as a student of classic literature for strength and endurance during the toughest periods of his captivity in Vietnam.

These teachings, along with his fearless leadership and unwavering courage, allowed Stockdale and many American prisoners of war to return home safely in 1973. During following assignments and ultimately as president of the Naval War College, Stockdale was able to expound on these teachings and continue his successful literary career as a scholar and orator.

"Two Souls Indivisible," one of the new additions to NPRP, is the story of two prisoners of war in Vietnam, one a white southern naval aviator and the other a black Air Force officer, held at the same prisoner of war camp, where Stockdale was the senior officer. In a letter read to the crew during the NPRP presentation, that southern naval aviator, Porter Halyburton, described how Stockdale inspired them throughout their ordeal.

"Our purpose this morning was two fold: to present the newest additions to the Navy Professional Reading Program and also to recognize the unique bond that links Admiral Stockdale's namesake ship to the oldest war college in the world," said Jackson. "The subjects discussed in these books, heritage, leadership, war fighting and critical thinking are interwoven into the curricula of the Naval War College."

With this collection of books now aboard Stockdale, the crew has a reference library that aligns with six areas of importance for the naval professional: leadership, naval and military heritage, joint and combined warfare, regional and cultural awareness, critical thinking, and management and strategic planning.

"I look forward to reading 'Two Souls Indivisible,'" said Ship's Serviceman Seaman Gerson Pimentel. "It is an inspiring story that will give me an interesting perspective from some great Navy heroes and hopefully help me in my career."

For more information about the Navy Professional Reading Program, visit www.navyreading.navy.mil.

PCU Stockdale is under construction at Bath Iron Works, will be commissioned in the spring of 2009 and homeported in San Diego.

For more news from Naval War College, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwc/.

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www.navyreading.navy.mil

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SNA West Coast Symposium Highlights Maritime Strategy

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Paula Ludwick, Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Vice Adm. D. C. Curtis, Commander, Naval Surface Forces and Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, kicked off the 10th annual Surface Navy Association (SNA) West Coast 2008 Symposium Aug. 28 at Naval Base San Diego.

'Executing the Maritime Strategy' was the theme of this year's symposium for which Curtis provided opening remarks. The event provided members of the surface warfare community an opportunity to discuss maritime strategy issues critical to the future success of the Navy.

"Our surface Navy continues to do great work around the globe on a daily basis supporting the maritime strategy," Curtis said." We must continue to lead the fight at sea but be flexible as we are called upon to provide humanitarian relief to various nations worldwide."

Some topics of discussion at the day-long symposium included international programs in support of Maritime Strategy, Maritime Strategy in Africa, Maritime Strategy in the Pacific, Maritime Strategy in the Arabian Gulf and Resourcing the Maritime Strategy.

"We must also continue the fight in the global struggle against violent extremism both ashore and at sea as surface force Sailors continue to fill critical individual augmentee (IA) billets," Curtis added.

Guest speakers at the symposium included Vice Adm. Bernard McCullough, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources (N8); Rear Adm. Nevin Carr, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy, International Programs Director, Navy International Program Office; Rear Adm. Philip Greene Jr., Commander, Joint Task Force, Horn of Africa; Rear Adm. Charles Martoglio, Director for Operations, J3, U.S. Pacific Command; and Rear Adm. Scott Swift, prospective Commander, Carrier Group 9.

"I appreciate all of your hard work and dedication that you provide to the waterfront every day. Continue doing amazing things for the surface Navy and getting back to basics," said Curtis during his opening remarks.

For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnsp/.

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This Day in Naval History - Oct. 01

From the Navy News Service

1800 - U.S. schooner Experiment captures French schooner Diana.
1844 - The Naval Observatory, headed by Lt. Matthew Fontaine Maury, occupies its first permanent quarters.
1874 - Supply Corps purser Lt. J.Q. Barton is given leave to enter service of new Japanese Navy to organize a pay department and instruct Japanese about accounts. He served until Oct. 1, 1877, when he again became a purser in the U.S. Navy.
1880 - John Phillip Sousa becomes leader of Marine Corps Band.
1928 - The first class at school for enlisted Navy and Marine Corps radio intercept operators (The "On the Roof Gang") is held.
1937 - Patrol aviation is transferred to Aircraft Scouting Force, a re-established type command. With the change, five patrol wings were established as a separate administrative command over their squadrons.
1946 - Truculent Turtle lands at Columbus, Ohio, breaking the world's record for distance without refueling during flight of 11,235 miles.
1949 - Military Sea Transportation Service is activated.
1955 - USS Forrestal (CVA 59), the first of post-war super carriers, is commissioned.
1979 - President Jimmy Carter awards the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to Neil Armstrong, retired Navy Capt. Charles Conrad Jr., retired Marine Col. John Glenn and retired Rear Adm. Alan Shepard Jr.
1980 - USS Cochrane (DDG 21) rescues 104 Vietnamese refugees 620 miles east of Saigon.
1990 - USS Independence (CV 62) enters Persian Gulf (first carrier in Persian Gulf since 1974).

For more information about naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

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The Royal Navy Visits China

HMS Kent has just completed a visit to Qingdao in China, host city of the sailing events for this year’s Olympic games. The visit was an opportunity to demonstrate the UK’s commitment to developing relationships in this part of the World and for the Royal Navy to foster those friendships by engaging closely with the People’s Liberation Army (Navy).

The visit began with an impressive welcome ceremony on the jetty, as HMS Kent arrived. Over the next few days, both navies exchanged ship tours, briefs, social and sporting events. HMS Kent took the first sporting honours in a hard-fought tug-of-war competition, but the PLA(N) sailors made it all square with a win in football, later in the week.

During the ship tours, there were lots of comparisons to make, everything from the equipment fitted and the training of personnel to the reciprocal demonstrations of fire-fighting techniques. The PLA(N) went one step further than the RN and actually started a fire on their flight deck as part of the demonstration! However, the PLA(N) officers were clearly very impressed with Kent’s demonstration in full fire-fighting outfits, breathing apparatus and a perfect example of how to recover a compartment on fire, even if it was only stage smoke being used.

Our time in Qingdao culminated in a visit by the First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Jonathan Band GCB ADC. Admiral Band was making a wider visit to China and took the opportunity to visit the ship as well as host an evening reception onboard. The next day, Kent sailed in company with the Chinese destroyer Qingdao for a search and rescue exercise, once again reinforcing the aim of improving the Royal Navy’s ability to work together with the navies of many other countries. Admiral Band was embarked on the Qingdao and at the end of the exercise, the officers and sailors of HMS Kent lined the upperdeck in best tropical uniforms to “Cheer Ship”, bidding the Admiral and the Chinese sailors farewell before heading off towards Singapore to begin a multi-national exercise.

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Iron Duke Aids Storm Hit Islands

Sailors from HMS Iron Duke have been providing much-needed assistance to the storm-ravaged Turks and Caicos Islands after the region was hit by Hurricane Ike.

Teams from Iron Duke and Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel Wave Ruler went ashore this morning, Thursday 11 September 2008, and were deployed on various tasks which included restoring power to the reverse osmosis plant that provides water to much of Grand Turk; providing temporary roofing and restoring power to the health clinic as well as distributing bottled water and food. Lynx helicopters from 815 Naval Air Squadron, embarked in both Iron Duke and Wave Ruler, have been able to provide fuel, water and stores to some of the other outlying islands.

Since Iron Duke's arrival 24 hours after Hurricane Ike, sailors have been landed daily to assist in key tasks such as building temporary roofing for the local hospital at Grand Turk. Within three hours of starting work the sailors had provided the hospital with a clean, dry ward, and were then able to distribute hot meals to both the staff and patients.

Speaking on this morning's BBC Radio 4 Today Programme, HMS Iron Duke's Commanding Officer, Commander Mark Newland said:

"We arrived about eight hours after the passage of Hurricane Ike, and we had first people on the ground in 10 hours. The scene certainly from my team ashore was complete devastation in our eyes, and we're not experts at this.
"But at the same time what we found as the day progressed is about 85 per cent of all houses on the island had severe damage of some kind, either structural or the roof had been removed; the building completely destroyed or part of the roof removed.

"I think with a storm the power of Ike passing through any weakness in any structure would mean that once a part of the roof had been removed then the whole contents of the house were vulnerable."

Helicopters, used initially to provide Casualty Evacuation if required then aerial surveillance to assess the scale of the damage, are now proving useful in the distribution of food and water rapidly. Aid flights and other aircraft are now arriving in the islands after a team from Iron Duke cleared the runway.

HMS Iron Duke has been deployed to the Caribbean region since late June and has been involved in Counter Narcotics work with the US Coastguard alongside providing re-assurance to the UK Overseas Territories.

Online Now: www.royalnavy.mod.uk

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Royal Navy Makes History

As dawn broke on Thursday HMS Blyth and HMS Atherstone, Royal Navy Mine Countermeasure vessels, headed down the Khawr Abd Allah (KAA) waterway towards the port of Umm Qasr, Iraq. The ships eased alongside under the watchful eye of the Iraqi, British and American Navies, marking the first visit by two Royal Navy ships since 2003.

Sunk during the Iran-Iraq and Gulf Wars, the several rusty shipwrecks passed on the transit in are a stark reminder of Iraq’s past. In contrast as the port comes into view it is a symbol of the country’s future.

Located close to the Kuwaiti border, Umm Qasr, Iraq’s only deep water port, receives 80% of the country’s imports. Under the mentoring of the British-led Naval Training Team, the Iraqi Navy has been working hard to improve the safety and security of the port, their offshore oil infrastructure and Iraq’s territorial waters.

The Blyth and Atherstone visit represents a significant milestone in this, not least because the ships were involved in Coalition operations earlier this year to search for historic ordnance laid during the two Gulf Wars. The operation saw the areas re-designated as Former Mined Areas, thereby making them safer for the maritime community.

“A significant but substantially unrecognised part of the Royal Navy’s efforts in the Gulf is focused on ensuring that global trade, primarily in the form of merchant shipping, is able to go about its normal business without fear of harassment. By clearing Mine Danger Areas left over from previous regional conflicts at the start of the year, the Royal Navy was able to open the way for more shipping to reach Iraq and by visiting Umm Qasr we are able to send a clear message about the continued ‘normalisation’ of the situation, which will encourage other ships to visit, which will in turn eventually provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. In this way, the Royal Navy is setting the stage for increased regional stability, which moves UK forces another step closer to the Government’s plan of an eventual troop withdrawal, when the conditions are right.” said Lieutenant Commander John Craig Royal Navy, HMS Blyth’s Commanding Officer. “As important, the visit shows the Royal Navy’s commitment to working with the Iraq Navy, assisting Iraq’s sailors with their aim of defending their own coastline, and promoting regional security.”

Lieutenant Commander Steve Holloway Royal Navy, HMS Atherstone’s Commanding Officer said, “It is a privilege to be one of the first British Naval ships visiting Iraq since 2003 and has provided the perfect example of Iraq re-entering the international community. Britain’s commitment to the development of Iraq is progressing well and was evident throughout our stay.” Adding, “The visit has proven an increase in stability in the region and bodes well for the future of Iraq and its armed forces.”

Key to the development of the Iraqi Navy to achieve these aims are plans to quadruple the current fleet. An aggressive programme is underway which will see the Iraqi Navy take delivery of a brand new fleet of ships starting next year. This investment to increase capability reflects the force’s strategic importance to the future of Iraq. The Naval Training Team will be an integral part in growing this capability, with responsibility for training the Iraqi sailors to man these vessels. Commander Paul Hugill United States Navy, Executive Officer of the Naval Training Team said, “This type of exchange with Coalition Navies will really accelerate the progress of the Iraqi Navy”.

With the key tasks of protecting the offshore oil infrastructure (which accounts for somewhere in the region of 80% of Iraq’s income), the security of Umm Qasr port and Iraq’s territorial waters the Iraqi Navy is largely confined to coastal waters. With 4 Patrol Ships and 2 Support Ships on order it is hoped that Royal Navy ships operating in the area can, in the future, increase mentoring and training the Iraqi Navy to further develop their skills to enable them to take part in wider coalition activities.

Cdre Keith Winstanley MBE, UK Maritime Component Commander, who was embarked on HMS Blyth for the visit, said “This is the first of several planned visits which demonstrates the closeness of Coalition and specifically the Royal Navy to our Iraqi colleagues and the importance of this part of our collective mission. The Iraqi Navy continue to make steady progress towards the time when we will see them in command of operations in the Northern Gulf and the visit of Blyth and Atherstone to Umm Qasr is an important step along that path.”

Online Now: www.royalnavy.mod.uk

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42 Commando in Afghanistan

The Royal Marines of 42 Commando RM have arrived safely in their base in southern Afghanistan and are making strides in their efforts to get to know the local population. Anticipation is high as they start their winter tour.

A spokesman for 42 Cdo said “We feel really good to have finally deployed and to make good on a summer of intense preparatory training. Everything we do now is for real, and our professionalism will see us through the next exciting few months of reassuring the locals, deterring the insurgent threat, and having the experience of adventure we all joined up for.”

The Unit has deployed to Afghanistan a number of times over the last few years but this tour will stand out for its different location in Kandahar Province, as opposed to the Helmand of previous tours, and for its renewed focus on hearts and minds operations, with the key activities centring around creating a safe environment for reconstruction and development to accelerate.

The camp location is currently something of a hot and dry dustbowl, but temperatures are climbing down slowly from the peaks of summer only a few weeks ago. December will see the extreme opposite with altitude and landscape dragging temperatures down well below freezing. Having recently completed a winter deployment to northern Norway, as Arctic and Mountain Warfare Specialists the Marines are well set up to explore new ground in the area. They are practicing their international relations having been thrown together with the multinational contingent of Canadians, French, Dutch, Americans, and Romanians, and the diversity has proved a welcome dimension to the tour.

Online Now: www.royalnavy.mod.uk

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Commando Logistic Regiment Hit the Ground Running In Afghanistan

As one of the first units of 3 Commando Brigade to arrive in the Helmand province of Afghanistan, the Commando Logistic Regiment Royal Marines has gone straight into action.

Lieutenant Colonel Steve Crouden Royal Marines, Second in Command of the Regiment said “CLR is a ‘big beastie’ which supports everything that goes on with British Forces in Helmand, not to mention working with every other ISAF nation wherever we can.”

After two days acclimatisation and refresher training, the North Devon based regiment had a short handover period with 13 Air Assault Supply Regiment RLC during which a number of their personnel went out across the province with supplies of all types for the Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). To go out ‘on the ground’ so quickly was a great achievement, and the experience gained is already paying dividends.

Col Andy Maynard, Commanding Officer of the Commando Logistic Regiment, could not be more pleased with the start his regiment has made to the tour; “We have been given a thorough handover by our predecessors who went to great lengths to pass on the lessons they learned over the last 6 months. When combined with the extensive training and preparation our men and women received, we are well placed to deliver operations whilst striving to keep our people safe”

Taking over from 16 Air Assault Brigade (the ‘Paras’), the Commandos continue the work of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), concentrating on the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan. Whilst in Afghanistan the Commando Logistic Regiment is based in Camp Bastion, the central UK Forces Base, and its men and women are drawn from across the Royal Marines, Royal Navy and Army, all of whom contribute to the regiment’s task of supporting the Brigade to do its job.

Online Now: www.royalnavy.mod.uk

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Northrop Grumman to Supply Fin Stabilizers for Six New Vehicle Ferries

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Sept. 26, 2008 - Northrop Grumman Corporation's (NYSE:NOC) Sperry Marine business unit has been awarded a contract to supply fin stabilizer systems for six new roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vehicle ferries being built for Finnlines at the Jinling shipyard in China.

Each of the vessels will be fitted with Sperry Marine Gyrofin(r) stabilizers. Utilizing Sperry Marine's patented Lift Control technology, the Gyrofins are designed to provide optimum roll stabilization while minimizing cavitation.

"The Gyrofins will provide improved safety and vessel performance, minimize passenger discomfort, protect vehicles from damage and reduce fuel consumption," said J. Nolasco DaCunha, vice president of Sperry Marine. "The proven Gyrofin design, with Sperry Marine's improved digital control system, provides a robust solution that delivers a smooth ride even in the roughest seas."

The six new ice-classified ro-ro ships will have about 3,200 lane meters for vehicles, and will operate at a speed of 20 knots. They are scheduled for delivery from Jinling in 2010 and 2011.

Sperry Marine, headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., and with major engineering and support offices in New Malden, United Kingdom and Hamburg, Germany, provides smart navigation and ship control solutions for the international marine industry with customer service and support through offices in 16 countries, sales representatives in 47 countries and authorized service depots in more than 250 locations worldwide.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

For commercial sales inquiries, contact Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine by phone, +1 (434) 974-2656 or by e-mail, sales_commercial@sperry.ngc.com. For military sales inquiries, call +1 (434) 974-2134 or e-mail sales_military@sperry.ngc.com. Visit our Web site at www.sperrymarine.northropgrumman.com.

Online Now: www.sperrymarine.northropgrumman.com

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Northrop Grumman Wins Orders to Supply Integrated Bridge Systems for Novoship Newbuilds

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. -- Sept. 25, 2008 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation's (NYSE:NOC) Sperry Marine business unit has been selected by Novorossiysk Shipping Company (Novoship) to supply integrated bridge systems (IBS) for ten new tankers being built in Korea and China.

The newbuilds include four 112,000 deadweight ton (dwt) tankers at Hyundai Heavy Industries in Korea and six 156,000 dwt tankers at Nantong Rongsheng in China, for delivery in 2008-2009. Each of the ships is being fitted with a complete navigation suite that includes radars, electronic chart display and information system, digital adaptive autopilot, steering controls, gyrocompasses, voyage data recorder, automatic identification system and other associated sensors and systems. All equipment meets or exceeds International Maritime Organization (IMO) performance standards.

"Novoship joins the growing number of shipowners to take advantage of our next-generation VisionMaster FT(tm) technology," said J. Nolasco DaCunha, vice president, Sperry Marine. "Since their introduction in 2006, the VisionMaster FT products have clearly become the benchmark for marine navigation technology, in terms of system integration and human-machine interface."

Novoship selected Sperry Marine as the single responsible supplier for the ships' navigation and communication systems following a competitive analysis of IBS suppliers. The selection was based on Sperry Marine's extensive experience and expertise, backed by worldwide availability of service and spares, according to a Novoship spokesman. Sperry Marine will provide engineering support for installation, commissioning and sea trials through its offices in Korea and China.

Novoship, a member of the Sovcomflot Group, is one of the largest shipping companies in the world, with a fleet of 52 vessels aggregating 4 million dwt. The current market value of the fleet is around USD $2.9 billion. Novoship's modern tanker fleet has an average age of less than seven years. Novoship has a total of 16 new vessels on order representing 1.5 million dwt.

Sperry Marine, headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., and with major engineering and support offices in New Malden, United Kingdom and Hamburg, Germany, provides smart navigation and ship control solutions for the international marine industry with customer service and support through offices in 16 countries, sales representatives in 47 countries and authorized service depots in more than 250 locations worldwide.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

For commercial sales inquiries, contact Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine by phone, +1 (434) 974-2656 or by e-mail, sales_commercial@sperry.ngc.com. For military sales inquiries, call +1 (434) 974-2134 or e-mail sales_military@sperry.ngc.com.

Visit our Web site at www.sperrymarine.northropgrumman.com.

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Northrop Grumman Introduces New Series of Multisensor Speed Logs for Maritime Market

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Sept. 24, 2008 - Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) is introducing a new family of multisensor marine speed log products at the 2008 SMM maritime technology exhibition in Hamburg, Germany this month.

The NAVIKNOT 600 series of products, which are being marketed under the Sperry Marine brand, are based on a new satellite speed sensor that yields dual axis speed over ground.

The satellite speed log can serve as a standalone device or be integrated with a single-axis electromagnetic or Doppler speed log. The three-way satellite-electromagnetic-Doppler combination provides maximum built-in flexibility and redundancy.

The NAVIKNOT 600 systems use a twin GPS antenna array to measure the ship's heading, velocity, course and attitude. The unit's processor uses the GPS data, integrated with output from rate gyros, to calculate longitudinal and transverse speed over ground with accuracy of +/-1 percent or 0.1 knots, whichever is greater. In the docking mode, the display shows a graphic diagram with rate of turn, bow and stern side-to-side speed over ground and other useful data.

Speed log data is shown on a large, bright, high-resolution display screen. A range of remote control and digital and analog repeater displays are also offered.

"The new NAVIKNOT 600 series products augment and enhance our lineup of NAVIKNOT marine speed logs, which have established a longstanding reputation for accuracy and reliability," said J. Nolasco DaCunha, vice president of Sperry Marine. "They are designed for easy, low-cost installation on all types and sizes of vessels, including pleasure yachts, commercial ships and naval platforms."

The NAVIKNOT multisensor speed logs are type approved by Germanischer Lloyd to the European Union Marine Equipment Directive 96/98/EC.

Sperry Marine, headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., and with major engineering and support offices in New Malden, United Kingdom and Hamburg, Germany, provides smart navigation and ship control solutions for the international marine industry with customer service and support through offices in 16 countries, sales representatives in 47 countries and authorized service depots in more than 250 locations worldwide.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

For commercial sales inquiries, contact Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine by phone, +1 (434) 974-2656 or by e-mail, sales_commercial@sperry.ngc.com. For military sales inquiries, call +1 (434) 974-2134 or e-mail sales_military@sperry.ngc.com. Visit our Web site at

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