Author: Robert Luster

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Celebrating Navy Excellence: Meet the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan, the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast.

Introduction

The United States Navy is more than just a military organization; it is a community that celebrates excellence and honors the commitment of its members. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be part of this community and support its mission of promoting peace through strength. Today, we are excited to introduce you to Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan, the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast. His dedication, leadership, and service are a true inspiration for all Americans.

Summary

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan has been recognized as the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast during Navy Fleet Week Port Everglades. This award highlights his outstanding service to the Navy and his leadership skills as a member of the community. Fleet Week is a chance to showcase the technology, skills, and commitment of Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, and this year marks the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week.

Key Takeaways

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan’s recognition as the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast is a testament to his dedication to the Navy and his commitment to serving his country. As a member of the culinary team, Sheridan’s leadership, innovation, and teamwork have been instrumental in achieving success in his role. He has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure the well-being and satisfaction of his fellow sailors, including by helping to provide essential services to support the fleet’s missions.

The Navy’s Fleet Week is an opportunity to showcase the Navy’s capabilities and celebrate the contributions of its members. Through the events, people are given a glimpse of the technology and skills that enable the Navy to be a force for good around the world. The recognition of individuals like Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan highlights the importance of teamwork, leadership, and dedication to the Navy’s mission.

Conclusion

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan, the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Region Southeast.The Navy is a vital component of our nation’s defense, and its members deserve our respect and admiration. The recognition of ß Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan is a reminder of the dedication, leadership, and service that define the Navy community. As Americans, we must continue to support the Navy and its mission of promoting peace through strength. Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to be part of this community, and we encourage everyone to join us in supporting our Navy and its members.

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Celebrating Navy Excellence: Key Takeaways from the Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year Award

Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year,

Introduction

The United States Navy has a long and proud history of excellence, and the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to ensuring that this tradition continues. Recently, the Navy Reserve Center Miami announced Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, highlighting the dedication and skill of the men and women who serve our nation. In this blog post, we will explore the key takeaways from this achievement and how it reflects the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Summary

The Navy Reserve Center Miami recently announced Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication to service. This achievement is a testament to the excellence and commitment of the men and women who serve in the Navy Reserve. In this blog post, we will explore the key takeaways from this award and how it reflects the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega as the Enlisted Person of the Year, recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication to service.
  • The Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year award highlights the exceptional dedication and performance of Navy personnel.
  • This award demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Navy to excellence and professionalism.
  • By recognizing the achievements of Navy personnel, we can inspire future generations to serve their country and uphold the values of the Navy.

Conclusion:

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be a part of the Navy community and to support the men and women who serve our nation. The Navy Reserve Center Miami’s Enlisted Person of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and excellence of Navy personnel, and we are honored to celebrate this achievement. We encourage all Americans to support our Navy and to uphold the values of peace, strength, and security that the Navy represents.

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Navy Enlisted Person of the Year Announced at Fleet Week: Celebrating the Strong and Innovative Sailors of the U.S. Navy

Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun was awarded the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Recruiting District Miami

Summary:

During the 32nd annual Fleet Week at Port Everglades, Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun was awarded the Enlisted Person of the Year for Navy Recruiting District Miami. This event provides an opportunity to showcase the innovative technology and dedicated personnel of the U.S. Navy. The Americans for a Stronger Navy are proud to celebrate and share the achievements of our nation’s sailors.

The U.S. Navy has a strong reputation for its innovative technology and dedicated personnel. The recent announcement of the Enlisted Person of the Year at Fleet Week Port Everglades highlights just how important these sailors are to our national security. Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun’s recognition demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to recruiting and retaining talented individuals who are essential to maintaining the strength of our navy.

Realistic Testing or Implementation:

The recent Fleet Week event in Port Everglades provided a realistic testing and implementation opportunity for the innovative technology and personnel of the U.S. Navy. Through showcasing their advanced technology and exceptional personnel, the U.S. Navy is able to highlight the importance of investing in these crucial areas for the security of our nation.

Conclusion:

We at Americans for a Stronger Navy are proud to celebrate and share the accomplishments of our nation’s sailors, such as Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun. It is essential that we continue to invest in innovative technology and personnel to maintain the strength of our navy and the security of our nation. We encourage all Americans to support the U.S. Navy and its dedicated personnel in their mission to protect our country.

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Honoring the Best: Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet

Introduction

The American Navy has been instrumental in keeping the nation safe and secure. The Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to report on recent developments and innovations that promote a stronger and more effective Navy. This blog post will focus on the Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet, held during Fleet Week, which honors the service members’ accomplishments and hard work.

Summary

The Fort Lauderdale Council of the Navy League hosted the Enlisted Person of the Year banquet to honor Sailors and Marines during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas. Each Sailor and Marine was announced, and their Command Master Chief or Leading Chief Petty Officer would describe the accomplishments that earned their selection as Sailor of the Year for the command. This year is the 32nd time the Navy has come down for Fleet Week Port Everglades to showcase naval technology and the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who defend the nation.

Recognition

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is a vital event that recognizes the hard work and accomplishments of Sailors and Marines. This event offers several key benefits that strengthen the Navy and the nation, including:

Service members are recognized for their hard work and dedication, which promotes morale and motivates them to continue to excel in their service.

The service members recognized include:

  • Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kristin Stoops from USS Cole (DDG 67)
  • Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun from Navy Recruiting District Miami
  • Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega from Navy Reserve Center Miami
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan from Navy Region Southeast
  • Machinist’s Mate (Auxillary) 3rd Class Fernando Villarreal from USS Indiana (SSN 789)
  • Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ernesto Rivera
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown
  • Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Charmae Peria
  • Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Sydney Thayer from USS New York (LPD 2)
  • U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp from Second Assault Amphibian Battlion

Learning tool

Recognized Sailors and Marines can use the experience as a learning tool to motivate junior Sailors in the future.

Realistic Testing or Implementation:
The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet was held during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas.

Conclusion

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is an event that promotes a stronger Navy and honors the accomplishments and hard work of Sailors and Marines. The Americans for a Stronger Navy encourages readers to support the Navy and the nation by promoting the importance of the Navy and its service members. Let us rally together and support our Navy, which is instrumental in keeping our nation safe and secure.

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Revolutionary Diving Suit System Offers Enhanced Safety and Flexibility for Navy Divers

Introduction:

A U.S. Navy diver (center) tests the Office of Naval Research-sponsored Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND) system at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit in Florida. DSEND includes a hardened yet lightweight atmospheric dive suit featuring rotating, detachable joints allowing for greater dexterity, flexibility and maneuverability. Credit: U.S. Navy photo by Ronnie N.

Introduction

Greetings to our members and subscribers! At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’re committed to promoting Peace Through Strength. In line with our mission, we’re excited to share a revolutionary new dive suit system, Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND), recently tested by the U.S. Navy. The DSEND system offers enhanced safety and flexibility for deep-sea divers, a crucial component in the Navy’s mission to secure the seas and protect our nation. We hope this story will inspire you to learn more about the innovations and advances in the Navy and join us in supporting our mission.

Summary:

The U.S. Navy has successfully tested the Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND), a revolutionary dive suit system that offers enhanced flexibility and safety for deep-sea divers. The suit system maintains steady internal pressure, reducing the risk of decompression sickness and allowing divers to work for extended periods at great depths. Sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) in partnership with other naval entities, the DSEND system is a game-changer for the Navy’s mission to secure the seas and protect the nation.

Innovative Design and Enhanced Safety Features:

The DSEND system includes a unique, hardened yet lightweight atmospheric dive suit featuring rotating, detachable joints for greater dexterity, flexibility, and maneuverability. The suit maintains one consistent pressure atmosphere, eliminating the risk of decompression sickness and reducing exposure to negative physiological effects associated with deep diving, such as cold and wet exposure.

Self-Contained Pressure Cocoon Increases Diving Time:

DSEND’s one-atmosphere environment encloses a diver in a stabilized pressure cocoon during the entire dive, allowing them to work at great depths for many hours and ascend without lengthy decompression. With a self-contained life support system, the suit system presents a solution to the limitations of traditional saturation systems used by the Navy, enabling divers to conduct harder missions by going deeper, executing faster, and operating longer.

Increased Flexibility and Reduced Fatigue:

The suit system features joints, grippers, and hand attachments made from novel materials that are strong, lightweight, and mirror the natural movements of human joints, reducing diver fatigue. The suit is also easier to don and remove and can be adjusted to diver size.

Realistic Operating Environment Testing:

During demonstrations at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit in Florida and NSWC Carderock Division in Maryland, DSEND divers completed various exercises, including pulling a mannequin from an aircraft fuselage, rigging wreckage for salvage, and traversing makeshift tunnels representing sunken vessels. In the next year, DSEND is set to undergo additional development, including at-sea demos in realistic operating environments.

Conclusion:

The DSEND system is a game-changer for the Navy’s diving missions, offering enhanced flexibility and safety features. By maintaining one consistent pressure atmosphere, DSEND eliminates the risk of decompression sickness and enables divers to work at great depths for many hours. We hope this story inspires you to learn more about the Navy’s innovations and advances and join us in supporting our mission to promote Peace Through Strength.

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US Seizure of Oil Vessel Triggers Iran Tanker Capture

Frame grab from video released Friday April 28, 2023, Iranian marines rappel onto the Advantage Sweet, a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker’s deck in the Gulf of Oman.

The US seizure of an oil vessel carrying Iranian crude oil and bound for China triggered Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker on Thursday, according to sources.

The US Department of Justice seized the tanker, the Suez Rajan, under a court order with the cooperation of at least one company involved with the vessel.

The tanker has been the subject of scrutiny since it was accused last year of taking on board a cargo of Iranian oil, then intended for China, from another ship near Singapore.

The US action towards the Suez Rajan sheds new light on Iran’s decision to capture the Advantage Sweet, a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.

The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital. That contrasts with the so-called “ghost fleet” of vessels usually used to move Iranian oil.

Key points:

  • US authorities ordered a tanker of Iranian crude oil to redirect towards the US, prompting Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.
  • The US Department of Justice seized the tanker, the Suez Rajan, under a court order with the cooperation of at least one company involved with the vessel.
  • The US seizure will raise questions about whether US-linked operators were given sufficient warning of the potential increased dangers of sailing ships close to Iran.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade in Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital.

Key takeaways:

  • The US seizure of the Iranian oil vessel triggered Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude that was chartered by Chevron.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade of Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group, leading to a civil legal action in Manhattan.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital, which contrasts with the so-called “ghost fleet” of vessels usually used to move Iranian oil.

Conclusion:

The US seizure of the Iranian oil vessel and subsequent retaliation from Iran highlights the tensions between the two nations and the increasing enforcement of sanctions on Iran. The involvement of US-linked operators and the alleged trade of Iranian oil by the Suez Rajan raises questions about the effectiveness of sanctions and the need for increased transparency in the shipping industry.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy’s mission to inform and inspire readers to subscribe is even more important in light of these recent events as a strong navy is essential in protecting the US’s interests and maintaining peace in the international waters.

Facts:

  • US authorities redirected a tanker of Iranian crude oil towards the US, prompting Iran’s decision to capture a US-bound tanker of Kuwaiti crude chartered by Chevron.
  • The US Department of Justice seized the Suez Rajan, a tanker accused last year of taking on board a cargo of Iranian oil, under a court order with cooperation from at least one company involved with the vessel.
  • The Suez Rajan’s alleged involvement in the trade in Iranian oil was revealed in 2022 by United Against Nuclear Iran, a pressure group, leading to a civil legal action in Manhattan.
  • The US interest in the vessel arose because the ship is owned by Fleetscape, an affiliate of US-based Oaktree Capital, which contrasts with the so-called
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Rear Admiral Thomas Moreau

The US Navy has announced the appointment of Rear Adm. Thomas J. Moreau will be assigned as vice director, J-4, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C. Moreau is currently serving as director, Supply, Ordnance and Logistics Operations Division, N4L, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C.

The US Navy has announced the appointment of Rear Admiral Thomas Moreau to an important new role within the Navy. Rear Admiral Thomas Moreau will be taking on a key leadership position, serving in Director, Supply, Ordnance and Logistics Operations Division, N41, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.

This appointment is a testament to his exceptional record of service and leadership, and we are thrilled to see him continue to contribute to the strength and success of the US Navy. Congratulations, Rear Admiral Thomas Moreau on your new appointment!

Rear Adm.Thomas “Jack” Moreau is a native of the Hudson Valley, New York. He graduated from Union College Schenectady, New York, and the Navy ROTC program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy, New York, as a member of the Class of 1990.. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and was assigned as a navy supply officer in the fall of 1990. He has a Master of Science in Management from the Naval Post Graduate School (NPGS) and a Harvard senior executive fellow.

Moreau’s initial assignment was as assistant supply officer onboard USS Gary (FFG 51) stationed at Long Beach and San Diego, California from 1991 to 1994. He then served as comptroller, Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Command, San Diego for 15 months before transferring to the 31st Naval Construction Brigade, Port Hueneme, California, in the summer of 1995. Moreau followed on overseas as the supply officer/fuels officer Souda Bay, Greece, from 1997 to 1999. Upon completion of the overseas tour, he returned to sea duty as the supply officer onboard USS La Moure County (LST 1194). After 15 months onboard, the La Moure County tragically ran aground off the coast of Chile and he executed the accelerated decommissioning of the vessel, which was later sunk off the coast of South America.

Upon graduation from NPGS in 2003, Moreau was assigned to the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Navy Supply Information Systems Activity (NAVSISA), Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, as the business systems director until 2004. Moreau was then assigned to Naval Surface Force, Atlantic Fleet as the comptroller/financial management officer and then followed on to a tour at the Bureau of Personnel (BUPERS-3/NAVSUP OP) as the Supply Corps Officer community manager (OCM)/flag planner from 2006 to 2009.

Following BUPERS, Moreau was assigned as the assistant force supply officer, Commander Naval Air Forces, North Island, California, and then as the supply officer onboard USS Nimitz (CVN 68) until January 2012. Moreau was then the chief of staff at NAVSUP, Global Logistics Support, San Diego, California from 2012 to 2013 and then completed a one-year deployment to Afghanistan as chief of staff for U.S. Forces Operational Contract Support Cell. After Afghanistan, he served at the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, where he was the deputy director of the Logistics Programs and Business Ops Division. Moreau has deployed on two Western Pacific cruises, a UNITAS deployment and a Joint Task Force off of North Korea. He went on to serve as the 44th commanding officer of NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center, Norfolk. Moreau’s first flag tour he served as N41 for U.S. Fleet Forces Command. He now joins the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations N41 as director, Supply, Ordnance and Logistics Operations Division, N41.

Moreau’s awards include the Legion of Merit (three awards), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (five awards), Navy Commendation Medal (five awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (four awards), and various unit and service awards.
He holds a subspecialty code in financial management, petroleum management and information systems management.







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The Latest Flag Officer Assignments in the US Navy

The US Navy recently announced several new flag officer assignments. These appointments will see Rear Admirals taking on important roles in various capacities across the Navy, including in Washington, D.C., the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Flag Officer Assignments

Rear Admiral Thomas J. Moreau
Rear Admiral Christopher J. Sweeney
Rear Admiral Thomas S. Wall
Rear Admiral (lower half) Tracy L. Hines
Rear Admiral (lower half) Gregory C. Huffman
Rear Admiral (lower half) Christopher D. Stone
Rear Admiral (lower half) Derek A. Trinque
Rear Admiral (lower half) Kurt J. Rothenhaus
Rear Admiral (lower half) Michael S. Sciretta

Key Takeaways:

Several Rear Admirals have been appointed to key positions within the US Navy
These appointments will see Rear Admirals taking on important roles in various capacities across the Navy, including in Washington, D.C., the United Kingdom, and Japan.
The new appointments demonstrate the Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong and capable force.

Conclusion:

The latest flag officer assignments in the US Navy demonstrate the Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong and capable force. These Rear Admirals have been appointed to key positions across the Navy, highlighting the importance of their roles in ensuring the Navy remains a formidable force around the world. As Americans, we should be proud of our Navy and the brave men and women who serve in it, and we should continue to support efforts to ensure it remains strong and capable for years to come

Rear Admiral Status in the US Navy.

To become a Rear Admiral in the US Navy, an individual must first be commissioned as an officer. Commissioned officers in the Navy typically start as Ensigns and advance through a series of promotions over the course of their career.

The promotion process for becoming a Rear Admiral is highly competitive and requires outstanding performance evaluations, leadership skills, and a track record of excellence in one’s field. The process also includes a review by a promotion board, which evaluates each candidate’s performance and potential for future success.

Once selected for promotion to Rear Admiral, individuals must complete a rigorous training program at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. This program includes courses on leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making, as well as opportunities for hands-on experience in various naval operations.

Overall, becoming a Rear Admiral in the US Navy requires a long and distinguished career of service, leadership, and excellence. It is a significant accomplishment and a testament to an individual’s dedication and commitment to the Navy and the United States.

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Honoring the Legacy: USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 Annual Reunion and Visit to Chattanooga, TN.

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7)

USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 Annual Reunion and Visit to Chattanooga, TN

The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion is a special event that takes place every May, where former crew members gather to share memories, stories and experiences aboard the ship. The reunion offers a great opportunity to connect with old friends and shipmates while creating new memories. This year’s reunion will be held at the Holiday Inn located in downtown Chattanooga, TN, from May 1-5, 2023.

USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7

The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 is a Adams-class guided missile destroyer that was commissioned in 1961, named after Rear Admiral Henry Braid Wilson, a United States Navy officer who served in World War I and World War II. The ship played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, where it was deployed for escort missions and shore bombardment, earning various accolades for its bravery and performance. The ship was decommissioned in 1993.

Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga, TN is a vibrant city located in southeastern Tennessee, known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and cultural attractions. The city boasts several popular tourist destinations, including the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. Chattanooga is also home to various outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and river rafting, making it a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

  • The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 is a destroyer class ship that served in the Vietnam War.
  • The ship played a crucial role in escort missions and shore bombardment.
  • The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion takes place every May.
  • The reunion offers a great opportunity for former crew members to reconnect with old friends and comrades.
  • Chattanooga, TN is a vibrant city with many popular tourist destinations.
  • Chattanooga is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational activities.

    In conclusion, the USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion is a great way for former crew members to reconnect and share memories while also honoring the legacy of this brave ship. Additionally, Chattanooga, TN offers a unique and exciting destination for the reunion, with plenty of activities and attractions for attendees to enjoy. If you are a former crew member or just interested in Naval history, be sure to check out the USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 website for more information on the reunion and association.

#StrongerNavy

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Celebrating Women’s Contributions to the Military at Fleet Week Port Everglades

Members of the USS Cole (DDG-67), USS New York (LPD-21), USS Indiana (SSN 789), USNS Newport, Marines from the 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, Coast Guardsmen from the local area and local citizens stopped for a group photo during the Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon. This luncheon has been an annual event on the Fleet Week Port Everglades schedule since 2017. (Photo by Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs Specialist Twilla Burns/released).

Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon at Lauderdale Yacht Club

Nearly 80 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen attended a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, honoring the service of women in the military and providing a chance to socialize with professional women in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Speeches by Female Officers

The event featured speeches from two female officers, Lt. Lexie Silva and Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch, who shared their experiences as officers in the Navy.

Lt. Lexie Silva’s Experience as a Submariner

Lt. Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy, and how important it is to her to be a good leader. She shared, “Many think to be a female submariner today is exceptional. I feel lucky to be a part of that small group, but even luckier to be a part of something bigger and more impactful. Being a member of the crew of USS Indiana (SSN-789) means I am part of a family – a family of hardworking and humble submariners that don’t see me as a woman submariner but see me more simply as a submariner, just like them.” Silva also stated, “I get to lead and work with a group of the smartest and most caring Sailors I have encountered. I’ve learned about working hard and how to get a “yes” in the face of impossible material issues.”

Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch’s Role as a Navy Chaplain

Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch, who is a Navy Chaplain, spoke about how she knew her job was vital for the Navy, and how she felt about her role onboard and her strongest motivations. She shared, “When I think about my role in service, I’m not only glad to be the first female chaplain on the Cole, but what also brings me joy is the why I am where I am. I remain committed to serve at the forefront of the Navy for the purposes of the Almighty…Who cares for His children wherever they serve to remind them of their identity, their purpose, and the source of their strength.”

Fleet Week Port Everglades Showcases Pride in Service

Fleet Week Port Everglades allows Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. The event will continue until the ships depart Sunday, April 30.

Key Takeaways:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club provided a chance to honor the service of women in the military and socialize with professional women in the area.
Lt. Lexie Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy and the importance of being a good leader.
Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch discussed her role as a Navy Chaplain and her motivation for serving.
Fleet Week Port Everglades allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents.

Conclusion:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at Fleet Week Port Everglades was a powerful reminder of the vital contributions women have made to our armed forces. As Lt. Silva and Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch shared their experiences, it was clear that they, like many other women in the military, are trailblazers and leaders in their own right. We are grateful for their service and the service of all women in the military. If you would like to learn more about Fleet Week Port Everglades and other events celebrating our military, visit

Fact: Fleet Week Port Everglades is an annual event that allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. This year’s event took place from April 26 to April 30, 2023, and included a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club.