A Class of Her Own (1961 - 2012)
Photos by Harry Gerwien
GEICO SALUTES THE USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) AND THE CREWS WHO SERVED ABOARD THIS PROUD SHIP.
1-800-MILITARY (1-800-645-4827) or yo r local GEICO office.
AuTO H hOME H REnTERs MOTORCYCLE H BOAT
Homeowners, renters, and boat coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency Inc. Motorcycle coverage is underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states or in all GEICO companies. Government Employees Insurance Co. • GEICO General Insurance Co. • GEICO Indemnity Co. • GEICO Casualty Co. These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. GEICO, Washington, DC 20076. © 2011-2012 GEICO
PAGE 2 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
ENTERPRISE USS
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4-9 Sailor reflections 8-9 First to respond 12-13 First nuclear aircraft carrier 14-18 51 years of service 15 Fire of 1969 20-21 Weathering the storms U.S. Navy file photo
A Class of Her Own
MNV Publisher | Laura Baxter
22-23 Spotlight: 1964 24-25 The ship CO’s
The Flagship Managing Editor | David Todd Creative Director | Tricia Lieurance Graphic Designer | Rebecca Soorani Hastings Advertising | (757) 222-3990 | sales@militarynews.com Published by Military Newspapers of Virginia 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510 Phone: (757) 222-3990 | Fax: (757) 853-1634 The contents of this special section are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. government, the DoD, the DoT or the U.S. Coast Guard. Opinions of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Military Newspapers of Virginia or The Flagship®. The availability of these newspapers and the appearance of advertising in these publications, including any inserts and supplements, do not constitute endorsement by the federal government, the DoD, the DoT, the U.S. Coast Guard or Military Newspapers of Virginia of products or services advertised. Military Newspapers of Virginia is a private firm in no way connected to the Department of Defense or United States Coast Guard.
28-29 Enterprise’s 50th birthday 30 Notable visitors 32-33 History of Naval Aviation 34-35 The future of aircraft carriers 36-39 Final deployment 40-42 Last homecoming
PAGE 3 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
SAILOR REFLECTIONS I served aboard the USS Enterprise from Feb. 1977 - Oct. 1980. It was the best time of my life. I was assigned to damage control and repair – in the pipe shop to begin with and later moved to the shipfitters shop. When I got my orders in bootcamp, all of the other guys could not believe it and told me how lucky I was. When I first saw the ship at Naval Air Station Alameda, I could not believe the size of her. I was just an old county boy from Elkmont, Ala. and I had never seen a ship until I joined the Navy.
U.S. Navy file photo
We were at Pier 12 before the cruise and the USS Forrestal (CV 59) was next to us. I was an aviation airman and the ship was over quota, so I was one of the many that was transferred to the 1st Division. Oh yes, I did it all. I then requested to be on the Bridge Detail and became a qualified helmsmen – the first or second person in the aviation field to do this. Then I worked in the chow area for awhile until they asked me to work in the Chief’s Mess and that is where I stayed for a long time. Before coming to the USS Enterprise, I was on the Crash Crew at NAS Patuxent River as a Aviation Boatswain’s Mate - Handling (ABH). While stationed there (November 1963), I was one of 60 picked to go to Arlington Cemetery to be a Naval Honor Guard for the funeral of President John F. Kennedy. I then left the Big “E” for ABH “A” School in Philadelphia, Penn. I am very proud to have served aboard such as grand lady and will miss her when she has to retire from service. I have been a member of the USS Enterprise CVAN/CVN-65 Association. Just know that we are very proud of our present shipmates now serving aboard. She is a wonderful ship to serve aboard and all of us who have served on her have been very honored to have this ship as a part of our lives.
I made a lot of friends pretty quick and they are still to this day the best friends I ever had. Going out to town and coming back was really something to see with the ship all lit up in the dark ... I can still see it. I stood a lot of sounding and security watches, and let me tell you, four-hour shifts was a job within itself, plus working in the shop too. It’s not just a job, but an adventure, but it was worth it. We got to eat good and had a nice place to sleep. I miss being out at sea. Being in the Navy and serving on the Enterprise was the best time of my life. While we were in drydock at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash., I got to work and see them take her apart and put her back together again. It was sad to see them take down what we called the “Cone Head” and it changed the look of her. One time I got to walk under the ship and it felt like there was a sky of steel above you. Not too many Sailors that served on her can say that. I am sad that they are going to scrap her. It breaks my heart. A lot of memories will go with her.
- Clayton Thomas PAGE 4 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
- HTFN James Cramer, served aboard USS Enterprise from Feb. 1977 - Oct. 1980
The article and photo are from the ship’s daily newspaper while on ‘WESTPAC 78’ aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65.) I have kept the original all these years. Mick [Lorenzo] and I remain good friends.”
- ACC (AW) Ray Firenze (ret.), crew member from 1976-1979 Courtesy photo
“It is very sad to see the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) get decommissioned. I had a great experience being a young Sailor aboard. I remember great stories, some very funny and some very sad. My time serving aboard Enterprise helped me grow to the man I am today.” Upon leaving the Navy, Rivera became a New York City Police Officer (7 years - retired). He also married his wife, Tammy, whom he met during the time he was stationed in Norfolk. They have two young boys, Josh and Ilan, and a daughter, Emma, and now own Edible Arrangements in Norfolk. - AK3 Anthony Rivera Served aboard USS Enterprise from 1997-2001 Courtesy photo
PAGE 5 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
A news article written while Jerry Schamp was aboard the USS Enterprise. He is now 67 years young and very proud of his service in the Navy. “Jerry’s grandson, Jansen Schamp, is now in the Navy and stationed in Norfolk. He made us aware of the retirement of the Enterprise. We are proud that our grandchildren followed in the footsteps of their grandfather.” The also have other grandchildren who serve in the Armed Forces – Jaycie Schamp, is stationed at Belle Chasse, La. and Austin Reifsteck, is stationed in Jacksonville, Fla., currently on cruise on the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Klakring (FFG 42). - Submitted by Diana L. Schamp about her husband, ATR2 Jerry Schamp, who served aboard USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War from November 1965 until June 1966
Courtesy photos
“I was on the Enterprise in the 70s (1976-78). My fondest memory was of the Roman Catholic priest Father “Al” Dagnoli. He knew just about every person’s first name and would greet you whenever he met you on the ship. Al finally left to go to a monastery where he had to take a vow of silence for part of the time he was there. Knowing Father Al, that would be a hard vow to keep, but I am sure he was up to it.” - Lt. Cmdr. Roger N. Hughes (ret.), crew member 1976-1978
PAGE 6 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Sailor Reflections, continued. My dad served on the USS Andromeda (AKA 15) as a chief petty officer during WWII. At one point he was stationed at Pearl Harbor. Fast forward to 1976, my dad died way too early in May of 1976 from cancer, four weeks before my wedding in June of 1976.
Courtesy photo
Michael Thacker painted and built a plastic replica of the USS Enterprise (CVN 65), which took more than three months to complete. The model itself is 3.5 feet in length (now encased in glass on a wooded stand), and the project was started nearly six years ago. To complete the project, Thacker requested to have the model signed by Enterprise’s Commanding Officer. And with the assistance of WAVY TV 10 and the Navy, Thacker along with his family and friends, were invited to Naval Station Norfolk for a tour where his model was officially signed by the then Commanding Officer Capt. Dee. L. Mewbourne in August of 2011. The model accompanied the crew and the ship on its final deployment. “Ever since August of 2011, the USS Enterprise has become my family. I attended their 50th Birthday Celebration in November and I went to see the USS Enterprise leave in March. [My family and I] are looking forward to seeing them come home in person.” - Michael Thacker, Portsmouth
In October of 1976, my new husband (a former Marine) then worked with GM truck sales and had won a four-day trip to Hawaii. He planned on taking me to Pearl Harbor to show me where my dad had been stationed, etc. The first night there we attended a luau for all the GM winners and guests. My husband sat next to a Hawaiian shirt-clad gentleman, a guest of his brother, and they immediately started talking “history.” My husband told the gentleman that he wanted to show me around Pearl Harbor, but found that it was closed to the public at this time due to the nuclear ship USS Enterprise and a nuclear sub docked. The visitor immediately assured us that he could make our visit a reality. He proceeded to scribble some information on a card, gave it to my husband, and said to call his secretary for which gate to enter. Upon checking, we were seated next to the commander of the base! We had a very enjoyable day visiting the base the following day. The USS Enterprise was all decked out with flags and looked very festive. Now, many years later, my new son-in-law is on his first deployment with the Navy as an ABH aboard the USS Enterprise’s final voyage. My second view of the Enterprise is going to be very festive, too! - Submitted by Karen L. (Klemm) Lynn
PAGE 7 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
“In late November of 1961, as a member of the Enterprise Navigation Department, I stood on the bridge drinking coffee and watched as the shipped was commissioned (it was held on the hanger deck). It seems odd to me that I will be watching the decommissioning 51 years later.” - Raymond Mulhern
FIRST TO RESPOND – 9/11 ATTACKS USS Enterprise (CVN 65) had just completed her tour in the Persian Gulf supporting Operation Southern Watch and was en route to Cape Town, South Africa for a much anticipated port visit before our return to homeport in Norfolk.
of the RAS, Enterprise came to a halt. Capt. James A. Winnefeld, Jr. announced on the ship’s 1MC the following, “Enterprise, this is the captain. The United States is under attack. Make ready for high-speed transit. We are awaiting our orders from Washington. That is all.”
For many of the crew, including myself, we were hours away from participating in crossing the line ceremonies.
The Air Department leadership gathered shortly after the captain’s announcement and made it a point to go out on the deck plates to talk with our Sailors. On the evening of Oct. 7, 2001, we commenced launching retaliatory air strikes into Afghanistan. I was the assistant air officer (MINI) at the time as I watched the ship and her crew respond magnificently.
Suddenly, we were all watching the events of 9/11 unfold before our eyes on ship’s television. In disbelief, we watched as the second aircraft plunged into the tower. Some time later, we heard of an aircraft crashing into the Pentagon. While events were unfolding, we were conducting a replenishment at sea (RAS). Upon completion
During one launch, a F-14 Tomcat was encountering a problem on CAT 3. The ship’s crew and squadron personnel jointly contributed in rectifying
U.S. Navy file photo
PAGE 8 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Sailor Reflections, continued. the problem by having two flight deck personnel lay on top of each other, allowing the squadron rep to leap on top of them to reach and repair the problem. When the corrective action was completed, these young warriors gave each other “high fives” and slaps on their backs. Their smiles could be seen all the way up to the tower that dark night. When I witnessed this selfless act, I knew we would be victorious in our efforts combating terrorism. I retired after serving more than 30 years of commissioned service and I have never been prouder than that moment witnessing our country’s youth – both in the air and on this historic flight deck – answer her country’s call when needed. It was something I’ll always remember as Big E’s Air Department answered the challenge by being “Never Late” and “Never Forgotten.” - Submitted by Capt. Mike Barea (ret.), Air Officer (Air Boss), USS Enterprise (CVN 65) June 2001 - May 2003
U.S. Navy file photo
My sea story is simply this. I believe that I hold the record for the greatest amount of time served aboard Enterprise in a career. Beginning in February 1984 and spanning two decades until my final departure in June 2003, I served a total of 14 years, 11 months and 3 days on Enterprise, the entirety of my career sea time. The meat and potatoes of that time I was assigned to Reactor Mechanical Division in number 3 plant, where I held every position from most junior watchstander to plant chief. I never had any desire to serve aboard any other ship, requesting Enterprise when I finished nuclear power training, and upon my return to sea duty on two other occasions. I made the four deployments on Enterprise. In 1984, we visited Hawaii; Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines; and Hong Kong. In 1986, we visited Subic Bay, Singapore, and Karachi, Pakistan. Enterprise became the first nuclear carrier to transit the Suez Canal, and while in the Med, we visited Toulon, France and Naples, Italy. We swung around the Horn of Africa and visited Perth, Australia, then hit Subic Bay again on our way home. I received a humanitarian discharge in 1987 to care
for my ailing parents. I returned to the Navy in 1988 and requested to return to Enterprise. In 1989, we visited the usual West Pac spots as well as Pattaya Beach, Thailand; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and St. Thomas on our way to Norfolk for the ships fourth refueling overhaul. In 1996, we visited St. Martin and Fort Lauderdale during work ups. I departed Enterprise in Fort Lauderdale for my only shore duty tour at SIMA Norfolk. I returned to Enterprise in 1999. We visited Pensacola, Fla. in early 2001 during our work ups, and on deployment we visited Cannes, France; Naples, Italy; Portsmouth, England; Lisbon, Portugal; Rhodes, Greece; Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates; and Souda Bay, Crete. On the evening of Sept. 11, 2001, Enterprise was the first U.S. carrier on station, ready on arrival to launch counterstrikes in the “War on Terrorism.” Our deployment was extended and we were late getting home, but we would have gladly stayed longer. Today, I am still serving Enterprise, in the Reactor Plant Planning Yard at Newport News Shipbuilding. I am the sole provider of repair part provisioning and logistics support for the Enterprise Reactor Plants.
PAGE 9 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
- Bryan Florence
COMING SOON...
THE BIG “E”
Enterprise Booklet $14
Enterprise DVD $19.99
The first aircraft carrier to harness atomic energy was commissioned in 1961. After more than half a century of service, the Enterprise is on its last deployment. The Pilot looks back - through stories, photographs and graphics - at the ship’s storied history.
The Navy bids farewell to its massive Enterprise this December. See photos and video from the last deployment, the ship’s homecoming in Norfolk and the decommissioning ceremony. This DVD will ship December 17th - just in time for the holiday. Price includes tax & shipping.
This full color booklet will ship late November. Price includes tax & shipping.
A 2-pack (DVD & Booklet) is available for $28.99 3 easy ways to pre-order & guarantee delivery by the holiday: • Online at Store.PilotOnline.com • Order by phone 757-446-2762 • Mail your check to PO Box 627, Norfolk VA 23501 *Please make check payable to The Virginian-Pilot
PAGE 10 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
We Salute The “Big Eâ€? For 52 Years Of Protecting Freedom. “Commissioned into service on September 24, 1960, the Enterprise has had a long and distinguished career. From the blockade of Cuba during the missile crisis to Vietnam to the liberation of Iraq, the “Big Eâ€? has been the tip of the spear, protecting freedom around the world. I am very proud to have served aboard the “Big Eâ€? from 1986 to 1990 and I can personally appreciate the Enterprise’s rich history and what this great ship means to our country. The “Big Eâ€? has had a huge impact on my life. It brought me to Hampton Roads where I met my beautiful wife of 22 years. I also attribute my professional success to the discipline and drive that is a resultt of my service. I salute my fellow “Big Eâ€? shipmates, past and present, as we celebrate and remember the accomplishments of the Navy’s ďŹ rst nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.â€? Todd Collins, General Manager, Checkered Flag Hyundai
>H[JO ;VKKÂťZ Z[VY` H[ ^^^ JOLJRLYLKĂ…HN JVT TPSP[HY` ZHS\[L O[T VY ZJHU [OPZ JVKL [V `V\Y ZTHY[WOVUL
;VKK *VSSPUZ .LULYHS 4HUHNLY *OLJRLYLK -SHN /`\UKHP HUK < : 5H]` ]L[LYHU
CHECKERED FLAG HYUNDAI
=PYNPUPH )LHJO )S]K 1\Z[ >LZ[ VM 3`UUOH]LU 7HYR^H` O`\UKHP JOLJRLYLKMSHN JVT ‹ ‹ *OLJRLYLK -SHN (\[V .YV\W >LLRKH`Z ‹ :H[\YKH` ‹ :\UKH`
PAGE 11 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
THE WORLD’S FIRST NUCLEAR AIRCRAFT From an operational standpoint, the ability of Enterprise to accelerate and decelerate merits first mention. In both cases, our capability exceeds any conventional aircraft carrier. This capability is of tremendous benefit when carrying out our primary function of air operations in that we can turn into the wind at a later time with assurance that we can produce the requisite 35 knots of wind over the deck for launching or recovering aircraft. During periods of light wind, in particular, since she can accelerate at such a tremendous rate – it is possible to steam down wind or along our intended course for longer periods and still turn into wind and be up to speed at the time appointed for aircraft operations. We can decelerate very rapidly at the end of a launch or recovery in order to take our helicopters aboard if this course of action is preferable to turning out of the wind. The helicopters are subject to definite wind limitations, which are less than the relative wind over the deck which we require during fixed wing air operations. Recovering our helicopters rapidly means time saved in reassuming our intended track. Our superior ability to accelerate and decelerate can also extricate us from tight spots in a hurry
if necessary. This increases the safety of operation of the nuclear carrier, as well as that of other ships which may be involved in a potential collision. Enterprise is equipped with eight of the most powerful nuclear reactors now supplying power for propulsion. These reactors, operating on four shafts and arranged in pairs, can develop over 200,000 shaft horsepower. In fact, on trials, Enterprise developed more horsepower than any ship in history. The training of personnel for Enterprise was intensive and training continues at a fast pace to insure retention of knowledge, as well as to expand our skills in operating our many complex systems. The naval nuclear propulsion training program places stress on operator knowledge and operator vigilance. In knowing their systems completely, our operators are able to recognize and avoid dangerous situations by proper handling of the controls available to them. This increases the safety and reliability of the equipment, to say nothing of the beneficial effect on the peace of mind of all aboard. The commanding officer, executive officer, and all officers and men who operate the reactors are not only given practical training at the prototypes, but prior to that they
By Capt. Vincent P. de Poix The first CO of the USS Enterprise
We have inherited the most illustrious name in the history of our country’s Navy, that of Enterprise ...” are given an extensive course of theoretical study in reactor physics and other technical subjects which will support their future training. I consider myself indeed fortunate to have had the one year of training in naval reactors under Adm. [Hyman G.] Rickover. All commanding officers and executive officers of nuclear ships need this intimate knowledge of the plant, including reactor safeguards, plant control, water chemistry and radiological controls. Enterprise is opening a new era in naval history. The mission she is to serve was eloquently expressed by Adm. Arleigh A. Burke at her christening when he said, “This new Enterprise is a mighty symbol of our determination to preserve liberty and justice and a clear indication of our ability to do so.” Editor’s note: “The Big ‘E’” was originally published in the June 1962 issue of Proceedings Magazine. Article edited for space.
PAGE 12 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From Naval History and Heritage Command USS Enterprise under construction in Newport News, 1958
The USS Enterprise was launched on Sept. 24, 1960, making it the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Naval History and Heritage Command photos
PAGE 13 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
51 YEARS OF SERVICE
1960s
From USS Enterprise Public Affairs
Role is space exploration On Feb. 20, 1962, Enterprise was a tracking and measuring station for the flight of Friendship 7, the Project Mercury space capsule in which U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. John H. Glenn, Jr. made the first American orbital spaceflight. In August, the carrier joined the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea, returning to Norfolk in October.
Cuban Missile Crisis In October of 1962, Enterprise was dispatched to her first international crisis. Following revelations that the Soviet Union was constructing nuclear missile launch sites on Cuba as a response to U.S. deployment of nuclear missiles in Italy and Turkey, President John F. Kennedy began to prepare for action, moving several military units to Florida and adjacent waters. On Oct. 24, 1962, Kennedy ordered a naval and air “quarantine” on shipment of offensive military equipment to Cuba and demanded the Soviets dismantle the missile sites there. Enterprise, supported by the carriers USS Independence (CV 62), USS Essex (CV 9), and Randolph (CV 15), and backed by shore-based aircraft, participated in the blockade as part of the 2nd Fleet. By Oct. 28, the crisis was averted.
Vietnam / First combat mission In Nov. of 1965, Enterprise was transferred to the Pacific 7th Fleet, homeporting at NAS Alameda, Calif. The following month, on Dec. 2, she became the first nuclear-powered ship to engage in combat when she launched aircraft against the Viet Cong near Bien Hoa. The ship led Carrier Division 3, with USS Enterprise (CVAN 65), which had Carrier Air Wing 9 aboard, USS Bainbridge (DLGN 25); USS Barry (DD 933); and USS Samuel B. Roberts (DD 823). Enterprise launched 125 sorties on the first day, unleashing 167 short tons (151 tons) of bombs and rockets on the enemy’s supply lines. On Dec. 3, she set a record of 165 strike sorties in a single day.
Naval History and Heritage Command photo
In January of 1966, the carrier continued operations as a unit of Task Force 77 in the Gulf of Tonkin. When Enterprise departed the Gulf of Tonkin on June 20, 1967, her pilots had flown more than 13,400 battle missions during 132 combat days of operations. As Vice Adm. John J. Hyland stated in his congratulatory statement, “the entire Air Wing 9 has earned a resounding ‘Well Done.’” On April 14 1969, tensions with North Korea flared as a North Korean aircraft shot down an EC-121 Warning Star that was on a reconnaissance patrol over the East Japan Sea from its base at Atsugi, Japan. The entire 31man crew was killed. The U.S. responded by activating Task Force 71 (TF 71), which included the Enterprise, to protect future such flights over those international waters.
PAGE 14 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
THE FIRE OF 1969
The true heroes of this magnificent ship he ship’s most tragic moment are those who occurred the morning paid the ultimate of Jan. 14, 1969. sacrifice in service An explosion erupted when a Mk-32 Zuni to their nation. rocket attached to a parked F-4 Phantom was Naval History and Heritage Command photo
T
overheated by an aircraft start unit mounted to a tow tractor. The initial explosion spread to other armed aircraft causing fires and additional explosions across the flight deck. During the eight explosions, and following fires, 27 died and 314 were injured. The fires also destroyed 15 aircraft. The fire not only changed damage control and fire fighting for Enterprise, it improved techniques and training across the fleet.
We will never forget them or their families and we celebrate their lives today.” - Rear Adm. Walter E. Carter, Jr., Commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group at a memorial ceremony
U.S. Navy file photo
PAGE 15 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
51 years of service, continued. – 1970s Vietnam, continued. In 1969-1970, Enterprise returned to Newport News Shipbuilding and went through an overhaul and her second refueling. In January of 1971, she completed sea trials with newly designed nuclear reactor cores that contained enough energy for 20 years. Enterprise then left for Vietnam, again to provide air support for American and South Vietnamese units.
bad weather. In December of 1972, the North Vietnamese returned to the peace table and Linebacker II ended.
Ceasefire
In December of 1971 during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Enterprise was deployed to the Bay of Bengal as a show of strength against India’s naval blockade by INS Vikrant. A Soviet Navy submarine was also trailing the U.S. task force. A confrontation was averted when the Americans moved towards South East Asia, away from the Indian Ocean.
In January of 1973, the Vietnam ceasefire was announced and American carriers ceased all combat sorties into North and South Vietnam. After the ceasefire in Vietnam in 1973, Enterprise proceeded to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, Wash., where the carrier was altered and refitted to support the Navy’s newest fighter aircraft – the F-14 Tomcat. On March 18, 1974, the first operational Tomcats of VF-1 Wolfpack and VF-2 Bounty Hunters made their maiden takeoffs and landings from the carrier. In September of 1974, Enterprise became the first carrier to deploy with the new fighter plane when she made her seventh Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment.
Linebacker operations
Disaster relief
Enterprise and the other carriers had flown a total of 23,652 tactical air attack sorties into North Vietnam from May-October and U.S. tactical air sorties during Linebacker I operations helped to stem the flow of supplies into North Vietnam, thereby limiting the operating capabilities of the North Vietnamese Army. In October of 1972, the U.S. ended tactical air sorties into North Vietnam above the 20th parallel and brought Linebacker I operations to a close, a gesture designed to promote peace negotiations being held in Paris.
In February of 1975, Typhoon Gervaise struck the island nation of Mauritius and Enterprise was ordered to provide disaster relief. Arriving at Port Louis, carrier personnel spent more than 10,000 manhours rendering such assistance as restoring water, power and telephone systems, clearing roads and debris, and providing helicopter, medical, food and drinkable water support to the stricken area.
A different kind of war
On Dec. 18, 1972, the U.S. resumed bombing campaigns above the 20th parallel under the name Linebacker II. During Linebacker II operations, Enterprise and other carriers on station reseeded the mine fields in Haiphong Harbor and conducted concentrated strikes against surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery sites, enemy Army barracks, petroleum storage areas, Haiphong naval and shipyard areas, and railroad and truck stations. Navy tactical air attack sorties under Linebacker II were centered in the coastal areas around Hanoi and Haiphong. There were 705 Navy sorties in this area during Linebacker II. Between Dec. 18 and 22, the Navy conducted 119 Linebacker II strikes in North Vietnam, with the main limiting factor on airstrikes being
Hostages in Uganda In July of 1976, Enterprise began her eighth WESTPAC deployment. In February of 1977, Idi Amin, the President of Uganda, made derogatory remarks against the U.S. in public and Americans in Uganda were taken hostage. This was several months after the Israeli raid at Entebbe airport. Enterprise and her escort ships, having just left Mombasa after a port call, were directed to remain in the area and operated off the East African Coast for about one week. At that point the ships were scheduled to transit home after a seven-month deployment. The ship’s Marine detachment and air wing prepared for a possible mission to rescue and evacuate the Americans, but Amin eventually released all the hostages. The ships then steamed across the Indian Ocean at high speed to make a previously scheduled final port call before returning to NAS Alameda.
PAGE 16 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
1980s-1990s First to travel the Suez Canal In 1986, the carrier made her 12th WESTPAC deployment, leaving on Jan. 12, 1986. She led Battle Group Foxtrot, including USS Truxtun, USS Arkansas, USS O’Brien, USS Reasoner, USS Lewis B. Puller, USS McClusky and USS David R. Ray. The Battle Group sailed directly for the Indian Ocean, with stops in Hawaii, Naval Station Subic Bay and Singapore. On April 28, 1986, Enterprise became the first nuclearpowered aircraft carrier to transit the Suez Canal. She went from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean to relieve USS Coral Sea, on-station with USS America off the coast of Libya. Enterprise entered the Mediterranean to support “Operation El Dorado Canyon,” the U.S. bombing of Libya. It was the ship’s first visit to the Mediterranean in more than 22 years.
Operation Praying Mantis In January of 1988, Enterprise underwent her 16th deployment and was assigned to Operation Earnest Will, escorting reflagged Kuwaiti oil tankers in the Persian Gulf. On April 14, 1988, another Earnest Will ship, USS Samuel B. Roberts, struck an Iranian mine in international waters. In response, the U.S. launched Operation Praying Mantis against Iranian targets, starting with two Iranian oil platforms that were being used as support bases for Iranian attacks on merchant shipping. Aircraft from Enterprise’s CVW-11 bombed two Iranian frigates, helping to sink one, and provided other air support for the strike.
Coup in the Philippines In September of 1989, Enterprise left Alameda and began her 17th overseas deployment, an aroundthe-world cruise that would end at the ship’s new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk. In early December of 1989, Enterprise and USS Midway (CV 41) participated in Operation Classic Resolve, President George H.W. Bush’s response to Philippine President Corazon Aquino’s request for air support during the rebel coup attempt. Enterprise remained on-station conducting flight operations in the waters outside Manila Bay until the situation subsided.
Naval History and Heritage Command photo
Conflict in Bosnia On Sept. 27, 1994, Enterprise commenced sea trials, during which she performed an extended full power run as fast as when she was new. On June 28, 1996, Enterprise began her 18th overseas deployment. The carrier enforced no-fly zones in Bosnia as part of Operation Joint Endeavor and over Iraq as part of Operation Southern Watch. The deployment ended in December of 1996, which also marked the end of active service for the A-6 Intruder from the Navy. In February of 1997, Enterprise entered Newport News Shipbuilding for an extended selective restricted availability, lasting four-and-a-half months.
Crash on the flight deck In November of 1998, following work-ups, Enterprise departed on her 19th overseas deployment, with CVW-3 embarked. On the night of Nov. 8, 1998, shortly after the start of the deployment, a EA-6B Prowler crashed into an S-3 Viking on the carrier’s flight deck. The mishap occurred as the EA-6B was landing during night carrier qualifications, striking the folded wings of the S-3, which had not yet cleared the landing area of the flight deck. The four crew of the EA-6B perished when the aircraft hit the water, but the two crew members of the S-3 ejected. A fire broke out on the flight deck, but was quickly extinguished by the flight deck crew. Three of the four members of the Prowler crew were lost at sea and the remains of the fourth were recovered shortly after the crash. The crew of the Viking were rushed to the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. There were no other significant injuries. An exhaustive search for three missing EA-6B Prowler crew members was suspended after nearly 24 hours.
PAGE 17 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
51 years of service, continued. – 2000s-2010s
First to respond – 9/11 attacks Enterprise was beginning her voyage home from the Persian Gulf when the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks were carried out. The carrier returned at flank speed to the waters off Southwest Asia near the Persian Gulf, outrunning her escorts.
The war in Afghanistan In October of 2001, the United States launched air attacks against al-Qaeda training camps and Taliban military installations in Afghanistan. The actions were designed to disrupt the use of Afghanistan as a base for terrorist operations and to attack the military capability of the Taliban regime. Over three weeks, aircraft from Enterprise flew nearly 700 missions and dropped large amounts of ordnance over Afghanistan. On Nov. 10, 2001, the carrier arrived at her homeport of Norfolk. During her last day at sea, the ship hosted a live twohour broadcast of ABC’s Good Morning America. Garth Brooks performed a concert with Jewel from Enterprise on Nov. 21, 2001 while she was docked in Norfolk. The concert was carried live on CBS. In January of 2002, Enterprise entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth for a scheduled one-year Extended Dry Docking Selected Restricted Availability.
Operation Iraqi Freedom
U.S. Navy file photo
performed, costs continued to rise above projections and the completion date repeatedly slid. Enterprise, the oldest active combat vessel in the Navy, was scheduled to be decommissioned as late as 2014. On April 6, 2009, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead stated that he was seeking a congressional dispensation to speed up the process to decommission Enterprise. Under this new timetable, the ship would complete one final deployment before being decommissioned. In October of 2009, the House and Senate Armed Services Committees agreed with the recommendation, approving the decommissioning of Enterprise in 2013 after 51 years of service.
In 2003-2004, the carrier provided air support for Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2004, the ship participated in Summer Surge 2004 and several multinational exercises. In May of 2006, Enterprise departed for a six-month deployment, operating in the 6th, 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility and supported both Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. She returned to Norfolk on Nov. 18, 2006.
Somali pirates / Libya
Decommissioning announced
Final orders
On Dec. 19. 2007, the carrier returned home after a sixmonth deployment in the Persian Gulf. In April of 2008, Enterprise entered the Northrop-Grumman Newport News Shipyard for a scheduled 18-month Extended Docking Selected Restricted Availability, with a projected completion date of Sept. of 2009. As maintenance was
On April 9, 2012, the Navy announced that the Enterprise and her group, Carrier Strike Group 12, would be assigned to join the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Persian Gulf. The mission was described as routine, not a response to a specific threat. Upon completion of this mission, the Enterprise is scheduled to be deactivated.
In February of 2011, the Enterprise was involved in an incident with Somali pirates, an event that ended in the deaths of four American citizens and four pirates. The carrier returned to Norfolk on July 15, 2011. During its deployment, it had participated in operations that captured 75 Somali pirates and its strike group made missile strikes against the Libyan government during the Libyan uprising.
PAGE 18 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
72 '21$7(
+++
<RX FDQ PDNH \RXU WD[ GHGXFWLEOH FRQWULEXWLRQV WR :RXQGHG :DUULRUV )DPLO\ 6XSSRUW E\ VHQGLQJ D FKHFN RU PRQH\ RUGHU WR :RXQGHG :DUULRUV )DPLO\ 6XSSRUW 6 WK $YH 6XLWH 2PDKD 1HEUDVND 3KRQH 'RQDWH RQOLQH RQ RXU 6HFXUH :HEVLWH ZRXQGHGZDUULRUVIDPLO\VXSSRUW RUJ 2XU ZHEVLWH LQFOXGHV LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW PHPRUL DOV GRQDWLRQ RI VHFXULWLHV DQG RXU SURJUDPV DQG VHUYLFHV %HFDXVH RI \RXU JHQHURVLW\ ZH FDQ FRQWLQXH WR UHDFK RXW WR VHU YLFHPHQ DQG WKHLU IDPLOLHV ZKR DV $EUDKDP /LQFROQ VDLG ìJDYH WKH ODVW IXOO PHDVXUH RI GHYRWLRQ ú
>L JHUUV[ JVTWSL[L V\Y TPZZPVU ^P[OV\[ `V\ HUK ^L HYL KLLWS` NYH[LM\S MVY `V\Y Z\WWVY[ 1VOU + -VSZVT &RORQHO 8QLWHG 6WDWHV 0DULQH &RUSV 5HVHUYH 5HW
)RXQGHU :RXQGHG :DUULRUV )DPLO\ 6XSSRUW
>V\UKLK >HYYPVYZ -HTPS` :\WWVY[ WYV]PKLZ Z\WWVY[ [V MHTPSPLZ VM [OVZL ^OV OH]L ILLU ^V\UKLK PUQ\YLK VY RPSSLK K\YPUN JVTIH[ VWLYH[PVUZ ;OL MHTPSPLZ VM V\Y JHZ\HS[PLZ Z\MMLY PU THU` ^H`Z ZVTL ÄUHUJPHSS` ZVTL WZ`JOVSVNPJHSS` >L OLSW [OLT ÄUK WLHJL HUK ZVSHJL HZ H MHTPS` VUJL TVYL ^P[O MHTPS` MYPLUKS` YL[YLH[Z [OH[ ^L ^ WYV]PKL MYLL VM JOHYNL 7YV]PKPUN H SV^ ^ Z[YLZZ LU]PYVUTLU[ ^OLYL ^HY [VYU MHTPSPLZ JHU YL LJVUULJ[ HUK ILJVTL Z[YVUNLY Z
CFC# 81534
:RXQGHG:DUULRUV)DPLO\6XSSRUW RUJ PAGE 19 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
:RXQGHG :DUULRUV )DPLO\ 6XSSRUW ,QF
81,9(56$/ 25/$1'2 5(6257 25/$1'2 )/
285 0,66,21 6833257,1* 0,/,7$5<< )$0,/,(66
´:+(1 $0(5,&$ *2(6 72 :$5 285 )$0,/,(6 *2 72 :$5µ
WEATHERING THE STORMS At sea and in port, the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) has experienced her fair share of hurricanes. Every year, hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. On Aug. 26, 2010, the crew prepared for high winds and heavy seas as Hurricane Danielle made her way up the Atlantic Coast while the ship conducted workups. Danielle was the first of four Category 4 hurricanes during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season. As the ship moved away from the hurricane, the crew implemented safeguards to protect personnel and vital equipment from damage. While aircraft carriers do not rock as much as smaller ships, heavy seas can cause damage. “We should start seeing the effects from Danielle this weekend,” said Lt. Cmdr. Patrick J. Havel, Enterprise’s METOC officer. “We can expect 20-knot winds from the North and 10-foot swells.” Sailors aboard Enterprise tied down all loose objects aboard to prevent damage to personnel or equipment in the event of heavy rolls. The Navy trains to make stowing for sea, as this process is called, second nature to Sailors. “Depending upon how rough the seas are, the damage costs could run into thousands of dollars, and we run the risk of serious
injury,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class David B. Hall. On Aug. 27, 2011, a skeleton crew hunkered down for Hurricane Irene. Irene was a large and very destructive tropical cyclone, which affected much of the Caribbean and East Coast of the United States. While many Navy ships homeported in Norfolk went underway to more safely navigate the storm at sea, Enterprise was moved to Norfolk Naval Shipyard because the location was deemed safer for ships unable to get underway. The ship was moved by tug boats on Aug. 25, 2011, a rare move which took more than three hours for the tug crews and the ship’s duty sections and volunteers. “These Sailors worked hard to move the ship and now they are keeping her safe during the storm,” said Cmdr. Jody H. Grady, the ship’s command duty officer. “This will be a sea story that they will be able to tell their children, and their grandchildren, that they were on the legendary Big ‘E’ during Irene.” Enterprise also opened its doors for her temporary neighbor, aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). More than 300 Harry S. Truman Sailors had the option to stay aboard Enterprise because their ship’s extended PAGE 20 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
U.S. Navy file photos
Compiled by Flagship staff
This will be a sea story that they will be able to tell their children, and their grandchildren, that they were on the legendary Big ‘E’ during Irene.” - Cmdr. Jody H. Grady, the ship’s command duty officer U.S. Navy file photo
shipyard maintenance availability didn’t allow for overnight stays. “We try to help our neighbors as much as possible,” said Lt. Melissa E. Johnson, from Enterprise’s Operations Department, who was aboard keeping the crew informed about the status of the storm. “We are responsible for tracking weather, checking on roads, flood areas and keeping the base notified of tornadoes, and we’re making sure Truman is informed as well. Our primary concern is the safety of our Sailors and equipment.” During the storm, Enterprise had to change its communications from
ground based to satellite based in case of power outages on land. It was an advantage that a warship had over a building and it made being aboard an aircraft carrier safer than weathering it ashore. “It’s our job to keep the phones and televisions up and running and to check on our electrical boxes,” said Interior Communications Electrician (SW) 1st Class Reginald W. Morris. “It may seem like a small detail from the outside, but the Sailors who have stayed aboard to work this weekend are concerned for their family and property, and they will need lines of communication
with their families in the area.” While Enterprise is the nation’s oldest active warship, the ship has state-ofthe-art communications capabilities and the ship’s public affairs officer continuously keep families informed via the ship’s Facebook page. “We are using every communication tool at our disposal to keep our Sailors and their families informed,” said Lt. Cmdr. Sarah T. Self-Kyler, the ship’s public affairs officer. “Enterprise has been weathering storms for half a century, and in the age of social media, we have even more tools to reach our audience in our effort to ensure everyone is safe.”
PAGE 21 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
SPOTLIGHT:
1964
Underway
The Homecoming
The Crew
Thank you to Kelly Williams Bergman, who graciously supplied the 1964 USS Enterprise cruise book that belonged to her grandfather, Master Chief Petty Officer Hardy Willis Purefoy (ret.). He served in the Navy for 30 years from 1939-1969. A special thanks to Bergman’s grandmother, Lucille, and the Purefoy family.
PAGE 22 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
PAGE 23 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
THE SHIP CO’S Vincent P. de Poix Nov. 11, 1961 - July 20, 1963
Frederick H. Michaelis July 20, 1963 - July 17, 1965
James L. Holloway III July 17, 1965 - July 11, 1967
Kent L. Lee July 11, 1967 - July 8, 1969
Forrest S. Petersen July 8, 1969 - Dec. 3, 1971
Ernest E. Tissot, Jr. Dec. 3, 1971 - April 9, 1974
Carol C. Smith, Jr. April 9, 1974 - Dec. 10, 1976
James W. Austin Dec. 10, 1976 - Feb. 23, 1980
Robert J. Kelly Feb. 23, 1980 - June 17, 1983
Robert L. Leuschner, Jr. June 17, 1983 - Jan. 27, 1986
Robert J. Spane Jan. 27, 1986 - Oct. 28, 1988
PAGE 24 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Harry T. Rittenour Oct. 28, 1988 - Aug. 7, 1991
Daniel C. Roper Aug. 7, 1991 - Aug. 27, 1993
Richard J. Naughton Aug. 27, 1993 - Feb. 2, 1996
Michael D. Malone Feb. 2, 1996 - Nov. 10, 1997
Evan M. Chanik Nov. 10, 1997 - March 10, 2000
James A. Winnefeld, Jr. March 10, 2000 - Feb. 15, 2002
Eric C. Neidlinger Feb. 15, 2002 - Dec. 10, 2004
Lawrence S. Rice Dec. 10, 2004 - May 17, 2007
Ronald Horton May 17, 2007 - May 6, 2010
Owen P. Honors, Jr. May 6, 2010 - Jan. 4, 2011
Dee L. Mewbourne Jan. 4, 2011 - Aug. 17, 2011
William C. Hamilton, Jr. Aug. 17, 2011 - Present
PAGE 25 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
U.S. NAVAL SEA CADET CORPS
CFC# 10185
“A ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME” 999T5'#%#&'65T14)
$5,000 PRICE REDUCTION!
$99 Moves you in* Plus First TWO Years Condo Dues Paid Builder's Closeout from $182,900
Resort style gated community in Newport News. Huge pool area, fitness center, clubhouse, car wash station & more. 1 story units. All appliances included, eat in kitchen with bar open to family room, formal dining area, 9’ ceilings, oversize closets, utility room, garage, storage. 522 Knolls Drive, #207 Dogwood, 1430 sq. ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Baths MLS: 1209137 $182,900
522 Knolls Drive, #107 Dogwood, 1430 sq. ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Baths MLS: 1209155 $187,900
708 Windy Way, #106 Dogwood, 1430 sq. ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Baths MLS: 1209159 $184,900
522 Knolls Drive, #204 Cypress, 1440 sq. ft. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths MLS#: 1209126 $184,900
David Tortolini 757.912.4440 Jane Twomey 757.817.9576
* on VA loans
Marketed by Rose & Womble Realty Company
WindyKnolls.com
PAGE 26 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
HAMPTON ROADS
CENTRAL VIRGINIA
United Way Southside #5051 • Peninsula #7037 • CFC #39471 • CVC #5031
PAGE 27 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
ENTERPRISE’S 50TH BIRTHDAY
U.S. Navy file photos
PAGE 28 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From USS Enterprise Public Affairs The world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise (CVN 65), hosted nearly 1,000 former crew members to kick off its two-day 50th birthday celebration on Nov. 25, 2011.
To me, it’s a little like spending a day with a childhood friend that you haven’t seen in many years.
The Enterprise is the first aircraft carrier in history to celebrate 50 years of active service and is also the oldest warship still in active service. Enterprise has participated in every major naval conflict from the Cuban Missile Crisis through six arduous tours in Vietnam, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars and today’s effort to rid the world of terrorism and piracy. The two-day celebration provided an opportunity for crew members past and present to reflect on the importance of the sea power that Enterprise represents.
“Everyone has their own experiences and feelings about this ship,” said Airman Apprentice Michael C. Kingsolver, who helped provide tours to the veterans. “It really boosts my morale to hear these veterans share their stories with me and get excited about how things used to be.”
John D. Clark, a former photographer’s mate who served aboard Enterprise from 1963 to 1965, said he was aboard Enterprise for “two Mediterranean tours and a world tour.”
A common theme expressed by former Sailors is that while the ship has been upgraded throughout the decades to meet the changing nature of warfare, overall it is very much the same.
Current Enterprise Sailors were available throughout the day to show their predecessors around, but many times it was the veteran Sailors who ended up giving the tours as they recounted their service from a bygone era.
“To me, it’s a little like spending a day with a childhood friend that you haven’t seen in many years,” said Dale Inman, who served as a machinist’s mate in the early 70s. “It makes me nostalgic for the good old days. But you know what? I’ll bet I could still man my station if the skipper needed me to.”
Although widely considered a very rewarding, and possibly, final opportunity for visiting veterans to walk the passageways of one of the most famous ships in history, the experience had an impact on current Sailors as well.
As Enterprise prepared for its final deployment, deactivation and decommissioning, the opportunity for veterans of Enterprise and future veterans of the ship to meet and interact was one that will certainly be valued by all.
PAGE 29 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
It makes me nostalgic for the good old days. But you know what? I’ll bet I could still man my station if the skipper needed me to.” - Dale Inman, who served as a machinist’s mate in the early 70s
NOTABLE VISITORS
Movie stars, athletes, musicians and more visited Enterprise at sea. U.S. Navy file photos
WWE superstar Kurt Angle
Actor/Comedian Robin Williams
Cartoonist Tom Richmond
Actor/Director Ben Affleck
Actress Michelle Rodriguez (L), director James Cameron and actor Stephen Lang
Actors Glenn Close and David Shaw
Country music artist Tracy Lawrence
Comedian Steve Burr
TV/movie star Jason “Wee Man” Acuña
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
UFC fighter Rich Franklin
UFC fighter Keith Jardine
PAGE 30 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
PAGE 31 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
HISTORY OF NAVAL AVIATION
U.S. Navy file photo
In 2011, the U.S. Navy celebrated the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation. The Navy officially dates the beginning of its aviation element to May 8, 1911, when the service’s first aircraft were requisitioned. Marine Corps aviation dates its birth to May 22 of the following year, when 1st Lt. Alfred A. Cunningham reported for duty as the first Marine Corps Aviator. Even before these dates, however, the feasibility of launching and recovering aircraft at sea already had been proven and the first naval aviators already were being trained. Although naval aircraft served faithfully in World War I, it would be a generation before U.S. Naval Aviation would truly prove itself in battle. When it did, it did so in spectacular fashion. In one of history’s most decisive engagements, the Battle of Midway,
three squadrons of SBD Dauntless dive bombers led by Cmdr. Max Leslie and Lt. Cmdr. C. Wade McClusky mortally damaged or sank three Japanese fleet carriers in an attack lasting only a few minutes on the morning of June 4, 1942. A fourth carrier was sunk several hours later. Naval air power had, in one fell swoop, broken the back of a combatant’s striking capacity and simultaneously captured the strategic initiative – and never relinquished it. In the decades since World War II, Naval Aviation has been expanding its range to influence events, increasing its lethality and diversifying the kinds of “battlefields” on which it can fight. In November of 2001, in the aftermath of the attacks of 9/11, Marine helicopters from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit launched the longest “amphibious” assault in history, transporting ground units
nearly 400 nautical miles from the Arabian Sea to southern Afghanistan. Today, from putting boots on the ground to placing precision munitions on target, there are few places on the planet beyond the reach of Naval Aviation. Like so many technologies in history, the airplane – and its application at sea – was an invention waiting to happen. From Eugene Ely’s first flight from the deck of USS Birmingham (CL 2), the machines of Naval Aviation have undergone tremendous change in a remarkably brief period. The very first aircraft purchased by the Navy, a Curtiss A-1 seaplane acquired in 1911, was powered by a 75-horsepower engine, allowing it to hurtle through the air at 60 miles per hour. Today, the Navy and Marine Corps newest fighter aircraft, the F-35B/C Lightning II, is powered by an engine
PAGE 32 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From Naval Aviation Enterprise Public Affairs U.S. Navy file photos
that generates up to 40,000 pounds of thrust, and is capable of speeds in excess of 1,200 miles per hour. For more than two decades, naval aircraft were built primarily of wood and fabric before all-metal construction began in the 1930s. Today, aircraft are made from revolutionary composite materials that are lighter and stronger than steel. In the early years, aviators measured maximum altitude in a few thousand feet. Today, naval astronauts regularly pilot or crew spacecraft into orbit around the Earth – and beyond. Over the course of the 20th century and into the 21st, the tactics and missions of Naval Aviation also have changed over time. Scouting for the battle fleet was the primary mission of the first naval aircraft, whether they were floatplanes, such as the OS2U Kingfisher launched from battleships, or airships such as USS Macon (ZRS 5). Not until the completion of the first fleet carriers, USS Lexington (CV 2) and USS Saratoga (CV 3), in 1927 was it readily apparent that the employment of aircraft at sea would be focused on strike warfare. Torpedoes and dive bombing would be the primary weapons of the World War II era, used for attacking ships at sea and land targets near shore in support of Marine amphibious landings in the Pacific. After 1945, Naval Aviation would influence battles ever farther afield and specialize in missions as diverse as search and rescue, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare, and even would be asked during the 1950s to provide a nuclear strike capability. Since World War II, Navy and Marine aircraft have conducted countless peacetime patrols during the Cold War, supported troops on the ground in numerous conflicts and participated in strategic air campaigns in five major wars from Korea to Iraq and Afghanistan. In all these endeavors and through all these changes, Navy and Marine Corps aviation personnel have excelled in everything that has been asked of them – and much more. Like their counterparts in their parents and grandparents generations before them, young men and women continue to undergo rigorous training to become naval aviators and flight officers, to serve at sea and on land, at home and abroad, to support Navy and Marine Corps missions whenever and wherever they are needed. The Naval Aviation of the future will continue the same tradition of excellence into the next 100 years.
A group of sketches by Alexander Russo, a noted combat artist
PAGE 33 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
THE FUTURE OF AIRCRAFT CARRIERS
U.S. Navy file photo
O
ur nation’s aircraft carriers remain at the center of the most potent sea-going fighting force the world has ever seen. Together with their accompanying strike groups, the Navy’s aircraft carriers provide exactly the right balance of forward presence and surge capability needed to conduct warfighting and peacetime operations around the globe in support of national priorities. Sailing the world’s oceans, each Carrier Strike Group possesses a versatile, independent and deadly striking force capable of engaging targets located up to hundreds of miles inland. The mobility and operational independence of
aircraft carriers provide a unique level of access that does not require host-nation support. Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers can remain on-station for months at a time, replenishing ordnance, spare parts, food, consumables, and aircraft fuel while conducting air strikes and other critical missions. This capability demonstrates the remarkable operational flexibility and logistical self-reliance of the aircraft carrier so vital to conducting time critical strike operations. Aircraft carriers and their strike groups are always within rapid reach of where they need to be and are ready on arrival.
For the first time, the 11 aircraft carrier force is solely nuclear-powered, comprised of USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and 10 ships of the Nimitz-class. USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), the last of the Nimitz-class carriers, was delivered to the Navy in May of 2009. The day after that delivery, the commissioning pennant was lowered on the last fossil-fueled carrier, USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), after completing more than 48 years of active service. Although Bush included many upgrades and improvements, service life allowances (such as weight and center of gravity, electrical load margin, material handling and future weapon requirements) constrain
PAGE 34 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From Naval Aviation Enterprise Public Affairs the further growth of the Nimitz-class design. Consequently, a new design was approved to ensure the aircraft carrier’s role as the centerpiece of the 21st century Carrier Strike Group. Construction of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the lead ship of the new class of aircraft carriers, began in 2008. The Ford-class is the first major design upgrade in the more than 40 years since the Nimitzclass was first designed. The Ford design boasts an improved reactor and electrifies all auxiliary systems outside the main propulsion plant, greatly reducing the requirement for costly steam, hydraulic and pneumatic piping. The improved reactor and zonal electrical distribution system also will increase electrical power generation capacity by nearly 300 percent, enabling new technologies, such as the electromagnetic aircraft launch system and advanced command-andcontrol systems. The new ship design, which is based on the current Nimitz hull, also includes an advanced arresting gear system as well as new flight and hangar decks. The redesigned flight
U.S. Navy ďŹ le photo
deck will enable greater flexibility during aircraft turnaround and launch-andrecovery cycles, leading to a 25 percent increase in daily sortie generation rates. In addition, the Ford-class will restore growth and electrical margins no longer available in Nimitz-class ships. When compared to their Nimitz-class counterparts, manpower requirements for Ford-class ships and their embarked air wings will be reduced by as many as 1,200 Sailors. These manpower reductions, coupled with improved reliability and reduced maintenance requirements for the carrier, will enable
the Navy to realize total operating cost savings of more than $5 billion during the life of each ship. To meet the demands of 21st century warfare, Nimitz and Ford-class aircraft carriers will deploy long-range manned and unmanned strike aircraft. Advanced weapons and sensors, combined with high-speed sealift platforms, tilt-rotor aircraft and advanced amphibious assault vehicles, will generate more flexible combat power. Joint concepts of operation, centered on the aircraft carrier, will leverage the military strengths of all
PAGE 35 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
the services, bringing cooperative muscle to the fight and a potent synergy across the warfare continuum. The design approach and spiral development of the Ford-class will reduce risk by introducing new technologies and capabilities at an affordable pace. Armed with advanced aircraft, such as the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet, F-35C Lightning II, EA-18G Growler and unmanned combat air systems, these new aircraft carriers, along with existing Nimitz-class ships, will project dominant maritime combat power well into the future.
THE FINAL DEPLOYMENT
U.S. Navy file photo
• USS Enterprise (CVN 65) deployed on March 11 for its 25th and final deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility, where the ship conducted maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). • While underway in the Mediterranean Sea, Enterprise hosted international military and civilian guests aboard during at sea visits and exercises with NATO ships. • While in Pireaus, Greece, Sailors and Marines volunteered at local churches. Enterprise hosted a reception for nearly 600 Greek guests and more than
1,000 citizens, including local officials and military leaders. • Enterprise then transited the Suez Canal, through the Red Sea and into the Gulf of Aden, eventually entering the North Arabian Sea to conduct operations in support of OEF. In total, Enterprise units directly supported ground forces in OEF for 94 days.
9,875 sorties. Of these, 2,241 were combat sorties (5.8 hours flight time per combat sortie). They dropped 56 bombs (35,960 lbs.) and conducted 27 strafes (5,804 rounds of 20-mm) in support of ground forces in Afghanistan OEF. In all, the Enterprise safely launched 8,711 (catapult launches) aircraft and recovered 8,760 aircraft (arrested landings).
• On May 1, Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 launched their first sorties into Afghanistan, a mission that they would continue to support until late September.
• Rear Adm. Ted “Slapshot” Carter broke the all-time trap record of 1,888 on Sept. 4, while Capt. Bob “Clete” Boyer, Commander, CVW 1, achieved his 1,000th career trap.
• Over the eight-month deployment, the aircraft of CVW 1 accumulated 26,369.1 total flight hours during
• During her time in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Enterprise transited the Strait of Hormuz,
PAGE 36 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From USS Enterprise Public Affairs an international chokepoint integral to global economic commerce – a total of 10 times – ensuring freedom of navigation and free flow of trade for all. • While deployed, Enterprise had numerous opportunities to operate and train with our foreign partners from around Europe and the Middle East. During port visits, Enterprise Sailors and Marines took the opportunity to experience the community and culture in a variety of ways through interaction aboard the ship during ship-hosted receptions, or in the community volunteering their liberty time in schools, churches and shelters. • While in the Gulf, Enterprise visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates (UAE) (three times), and Manama, Bahrain (twice). • In Jebel Ali, UAE, Enterprise gave tours to local groups, including UAE military and children with special needs. Sailors and Marines volunteered to paint and clean up local churches and played soccer with school children. • In Manama, Bahrain, Enterprise hosted the Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet change of command reception for nearly 1,000 guests from the local base and surrounding area. Sailors and Marines volunteered at a women’s shelter and churches in the area, spending time with the needy. During her final port call on Oct.
U.S. Navy file photos
16, Enterprise visited Naples, Italy, for the seventh and final time, hosting a reception aboard for Italian and embassy guests. The ship welcomed hundreds of local military and civilian guests for its final international tours. • In Naples, Italy, Sailors volunteered at Napoli churches that needed some extra hands. Enterprise’s final good will reception was held for hundreds of local military and civilian guests and tours were provided for the local NJROTC unit, Italian guests, and state and military guests. • In her 238 days away from Norfolk, Enterprise safely steamed 80,968 miles, conducted two Suez Canal transits and 38 underway replenishment operations, onloading 18,129,060 gallons of JP-5 and transferring 12,170 pallets of goods. More than 500 American flags
were flown during Enterprise’s final deployment for Enterprise veterans. • Enterprise and her crew returned to homeport Norfolk on Nov. 4. They will immediately begin preparations to inactivate and subsequently decommission the aircraft carrier after 51 years of service.
PAGE 37 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
The final deployment, continued. – Leadership Capt. William C. Hamilton, Jr. Commanding Officer
Capt. Gregory C. Huffman Executive Officer
Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Dwayne E. Huff
Hamilton is a native of Alabama where he earned an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering from Auburn University in 1981. He also holds a Master of Science Degree from the University of Tennessee.
Huffman is the son of a career naval officer. He was commissioned upon his graduation from the United States Naval Academy in May of 1989. He then attended the University of Maryland where he received a Master of Arts degree in December 1989.
Huff entered the Navy and completed his basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. in October of 1986.
Hamilton assumed command of the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) on Aug. 17, 2011. Hamilton has logged more than 5,500 total flight hours and over 850 carrier landings. During his career, he was recognized on 20 occasions as a “Top10” pilot in carrier landing evaluations. His personal awards include: the Defense Superior Service Medal, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (2), Air Medal, Air Medal with Combat “V,” Strike Flight Air Medal (6), Navy Commendation Medal (2), and the Navy Achievement Medal (2), in addition to other unit and campaign awards.
Huffman reported to the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) as Executive Officer in March of 2011. He has logged more than 2,800 flight hours in 24 different aircraft types and has accumulated more than 700 arrested landings. His personal awards include: the Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, StrikeFlight Air Medal (two awards), Navy Commendation Medal (four awards, one with Combat V), Navy Achievement Medal, and numerous unit citations.
CO
He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy and Command Master Chief/ Chief of the Boat Course. In May of 2009, Huff reported to the USS Donald Cook (DDG 75). Upon successful completion of his tour on the Cook, Huff reported aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in May of 2012 as the final Command Master Chief of the 51-year-old carrier. His personal awards include: the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (seven awards), and various unit and campaign awards.
XO
PAGE 38 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
CMC
Facts and stats
U.S. Navy file photo
• 239 days deployed (270 of 308 days in 2012 underway) • 80,968 miles steamed • 39 restricted water transits • 10 Strait of Hormuz transits • 2 Bab el-Mandeb transits • 2 Strait of Gibraltar transits • 2 Suez Canal transits • 1 Strait of Messina transit • 38 replenishments at sea • Received 18,129,060 gallons of jet fuel (JP-5) • 12,170 pallets moved • Transferred 1,320 pallets of ammunitions • Refueled USS Vicksburg (CG 69) with more than 435,000 JP-5 during 4 fuelings at sea (FAS)
• The Air Intermediate Maintenance Department performed 28 composite repairs for the F/A-18 E/F aircraft, repaired 19 engines, 93 Generator Control Units and 68 ATFLIR systems. • Completed 15 CIWS PACFIRE’s (expending 6,750 rounds). • Dental Department conducted more than 7,900 patient visits, including more than 75 from beach detachments and accompanying ships. During this time, more than 3,000 dental restorations were placed.
• Produced 65,635,820 gallons of water (Never went on water hours!) – Potable – 45,406,975 gallons – Reserve feed – 19,220,845 gallons • Produced 60.3 million • 7 port visits: kilowatt hours of electricity. – Piraeus, Greece; Jebel Ali, UAE • Produced 15,500 gallons (3); Manama, Bahrain (2), Naples, Italy of liquid nitrogen and 9,250 • 3 major receptions: gallons of liquid oxygen – 5th Fleet COC in Bahrain • Air conditioning provided– DV reception in Piraeus, Greece 591,800 tons of refrigeration, – DV reception in Naples, Italy or 170,428,400,000 BTU’s
• Enterprise received 4,588,449 emails and sent 14,888,375. • Big E’s Media Department produced 90 videos; aired more than 2,800 movies; released more than 22,500 images; produced 212 editions of “The Shuttle,” the ship’s newspaper; published more than 300 stories; and hosted more than 275 distinguished visitors and media. • Enterprise Medical Department had 25,150 patient encounters, filled more than 10,000 prescriptions, performed 1,189 radiology exams, 5,494 laboratory tests, conducted 77 emergent and same day surgical procedures, and managed more than 59 medical evacuations from seven different ships at sea. • The supply team handled more than 700,000 lbs. of mail, prepared more than three million meals, baked more than 300,000 cookies, processed more than $500K pounds of laundry, gave more than 25K haircuts, and expedited 6,000 hi-priority parts valued at $250M to keep our jets flying.
PAGE 39 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
THE LAST HOMECOMING
Photos by Harry Gerwien
More than 5,500 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group (CSG) arrived in Norfolk following a seven-and-ahalf-month deployment supporting operations in the Mediterranean and the Arabian Seas, Nov. 4. USS Enterprise’s return to Norfolk marks the 25th and final homecoming in her 51 years of distinguished service. The aircraft carrier is scheduled to be inactivated on Dec. 1 in a ceremony at Norfolk Naval Station. “We are pleased to be returning to our families after a very successful deployment, but to know that it is the last time Enterprise will be underway through her own power makes our return very sentimental,” said Capt. William C. Hamilton, Enterprise Commanding Officer. While deployed, Enterprise CSG served in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility (AOR), conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
“This has not been a victory lap for Enterprise by any means,” said Rear Adm. Ted Carter, Commander, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. “This has been a full-on combat operation. We’ve seen the full spectrum of Navy operations on this deployment. It’s been a business as usual kind of deployment.”
Enterprise was commissioned on Nov. 25, 1961 as the eighth ship to bear the name Enterprise. Big E was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. During her 51 years During her 238 days away from of service, Enterprise deployed 25 Norfolk, “Big E,” as Enterprise is times and participated in every major affectionately known, safely steamed conflict since the Cuban Missile Crisis. 80,968 miles and Carrier Air Enterprise has been homeported Wing(CVW) 1 flew more than 8,000 in both Alameda, Calif. and sorties in support of OEF and exercises Norfolk, and conducted operations in the 5th and 6th Fleet AORs. in every region of the world.
Enterprise CSG is comprised of: Commander, Carrier Strike Group 12; the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65); CVW 1; Destroyer Squadron 2; guided-missile destroyers USS Porter (DDG 78); USS Nitze (DDG 94); and USS James E. Williams (DDG 95). The squadrons of CVW 1 embarked aboard Enterprise are: Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 “Red Rippers,” VFA-136 “Knighthawks,” VFA-211 “Fighting Checkmates,”Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 “Thunderbolts,” Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 “Screwtops,” Carrier Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 137 “Rooks,” Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 “Rawhides”and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 11 “Dragonslayers.”
PAGE 40 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
From USS Enterprise Public Affairs
PAGE 41 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
The Last Homecoming, continued. Photos by Harry Gerwien
PAGE 42 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
A GRAND
Salute
To the USS Enterprise & Her
51 Years of
Courtesy of U.S. Navy
LEGENDARY SERVICE
15%
GRAND
MILITARY DISCOUNT off regularly priced furniture.
*Restrictions apply. Offer valid for military personnel only. Military ID must be presented at the time of purchase. Must present original coupon. Cannot be combined with any other offer.Non-transferable and non-redeemable for cash.
For over 65 years Grand Furniture has proudly served hard working military families by providing quality home furnishings, bedding, electronics & appliances.
Courtesy of U.S. Navy
More people shop at Grand, the #1 furniture store in Hampton Roads
moreD TION SELEC
N @ GRA
moreD IT CRED
N @ GRA
Visit any of our 6 locations
CHESAPEAKE • WESTERN BRANCH HAMPTON • NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK • VIRGINIA BEACH
Military allotment accounts available.
moreD TIO LOCA
NS
N @ GRA
†
moreD S OMER CUST
N
@ GRA
FREE
LOCAL DELIVERY Local delivery available in the 7 Cities of Tidewater. Delivery must be taken Tuesday-Friday only. See store for details.
Remember, at Grand you’re more than just your credit score. Apply online at grandfurniture.com. †According to Scarborough Research. As Awarded by Hampton Roads Magazines ‘Best of 757’.
PAGE 43 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012
PAGE 44 | USS ENTERPRISE - A CLASS OF HER OWN | NOVEMBER 29, 2012