Sailors man the rails aboard the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford in June 2021. (Navy)
Hello, and welcome to Americans for a Stronger Navy. At our organization, we are committed to promoting Peace Through Strength. In this blog post, we will be discussing the recent recruiting shortfalls and readiness issues faced by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Our goal is to inform and inspire our readers, especially those in the Navy, to support our mission.
Summary:
Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, the vice chief of naval operations, told the committee that their services are doing better than they expected, but that they will still be short at the end of the fiscal year.
Franchetti said the Navy’s readiness is based on people. “We are committed to improving their quality of service and personal resilience, investing in initiatives such as quality housing and childcare, access to the full continuum of mental health care, improved education and an environment free of sexual harassment and sexual assault,” she said. “In this 50th anniversary of the all-volunteer force, we continue to focus on recruiting, retention and reducing gaps in our billets at sea.”
The admiral also spoke of gains in ship readiness and improvements in maintenance. She told the panel that the fiscal 2024 budget request fully funds public and private ship maintenance, aviation depot maintenance, increases parts and spares and continues to grow the highly skilled public shipyard workforce.
Army, Navy, and Air Force won’t reach enlistment goals this year.
Marines and Space Force expect to reach their goals.
Army expects to recruit 10,000 fewer soldiers than their goal of 55,000.
Navy expects to have about 6,000 enlistees short.
Air Force expects to have about 10,000 airmen short throughout the active and reserve components.
Recruitment issues faced by the Army apply to all services, with only 23% of young Americans qualified to serve, and fewer still showing interest.
The Army must focus on warfighting, training for battle, and supporting combatant commands with ready formations worldwide.
The Navy’s readiness is based on people, investing in initiatives such as quality housing, childcare, mental health care, education, and an environment free of harassment and assault.
The Marine Corps is modernizing and producing an even more lethal Marine.
Conclusion:
We hope this blog post has informed you about the current recruiting shortfalls and readiness issues faced by the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Personnel is the most critical aspect of readiness, and it’s essential to invest in initiatives to improve their quality of service and personal resilience.
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the all-volunteer force, we must focus on recruiting, retention, and reducing gaps in our billets at sea.
We encourage you to support our mission by subscribing to our organization and becoming an active supporter of a Stronger Navy. Thank you for your time and for supporting our cause.
Greetings, members and subscribers! Americans for a Stronger Navy’s mission is to promote Peace Through Strength. Unfortunately, we have some sad news to share today. The body of 21-year-old U.S. Navy servicemember Séamus Gray, who went missing a month ago, has been found in Waukegan Harbor.
Séamus Gray’s Disappearance
Séamus Gray disappeared on March 18 after leaving a nightclub in Waukegan, about 40 miles north of Chicago. A group of ComEd workers found his body along the shores of Lake Michigan on April 19. The body and clothing matched the description of Gray. An autopsy was scheduled for the next day to determine the cause of death.
According to authorities, Séamus Gray was last seen leaving Ibiza Nightclub in Waukegan at around 1:35 a.m. on March 18. He didn’t report back to the Naval Station Great Lakes base at his scheduled 2 a.m. time Saturday. His disappearance was first noted when he didn’t show up for work
Newly released surveillance video from outside the bar showed Gray standing and talking to a group of people before he disappeared. At one point, he was seen on the ground, and someone appeared to take his wallet from his pocket, but then threw it back at him. Later in the video, Gray was seen running down a nearby alley.
Search Efforts:
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Gray’s whereabouts, it wasn’t until March 21 that Waukegan police were notified of his disappearance. Once they learned of his disappearance, the police immediately began a search of areas where he was last seen. Multiple departments were involved in the search efforts, but they were unsuccessful in finding Gray until his body was discovered on April 19.
Séamus Gray’s Body Found:
On April 19, a group of ComEd workers found Séamus Gray’s body along the shores of Lake Michigan in Waukegan Harbor. Officers brought the body to shore, and the Waukegan Fire Department was there to assist. The body and clothing matched the description of Gray, who went missing on March 18. An autopsy was scheduled for the next day to determine the cause of death.
Conclusion:
We hope that the cause of Séamus Gray’s death will be determined soon, and that his family and friends will find some closure. This is a tragic loss for the U.S. Navy community, and it’s a reminder of the sacrifices that our service members make every day to keep us safe. We urge our readers to support our mission of promoting Peace Through Strength by subscribing to our newsletter. Thank you for your time, and for supporting a Stronger Navy.
Greetings to our members and subscribers, and to all Americans who believe in promoting Peace through Strength.
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, our mission is to inspire and inform readers about the importance of a strong navy for the security and prosperity of our nation. Today, we bring you news of the U.S. Navy’s historic sailing of its first drone boat through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global energy supplies where American sailors often face tense encounters with Iranian force
A U.S. Navy L3 Harris Arabian Fox MAST-13 drone boat and the U.S. Coast Guard cutter USCGC John Scheuerman transit the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. The U.S. Navy sailed its first drone boat through the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, a crucial waterway for global energy supplies where American sailors often faces tense encounters with Iranian forces. (Information Systems Technician 1st Class Vincent Aguirre/U.S. Coast Guard via AP)
On April 19, 2023, the U.S. Navy successfully sailed its first drone boat, the L3 Harris Arabian Fox MAST-13, through the Strait of Hormuz, a busy waterway between Iran and Oman. The drone, a 13-meter (41-foot) speedboat carrying sensors and cameras, passed safely through the strait, which is just 33 kilometers (21 miles) wide at its narrowest point. The U.S. Coast Guard cutters, the USCGC Charles Moulthrope and USCGC John Scheuerman, accompanied the drone during its journey
The strait is a crucial waterway through which a fifth of all oil traded passes, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. American sailors often face tense encounters with Iranian forces in the area, but this sailing took place without incident, although it drew the attention of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
Key takeaways:
The drone, the L3 Harris Arabian Fox MAST-13, passed safely through the strait with accompanying U.S. Coast Guard cutters.
The strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and is a busy waterway through which a fifth of all oil traded passes.
The sailing drew the attention of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard but took place without incident.
Subscribe to our organization to stay informed about these important developments.
Conclusion:
The successful sailing of the first U.S. Navy drone boat through the Strait of Hormuz is a significant milestone in the Navy’s efforts to bolster its presence in the region. This development will enable the Navy to better monitor the area, safeguard international trade, and protect American interests and allies. We encourage all Americans who believe in promoting peace through strength to support the Navy’s mission and subscribe to our organization to stay informed about these important developments.
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand in solidarity with the sailors of the @US7thFleet and the USS Milius in Taiwan Strait transit.
Freedom of Navigation apply, in accordance with International law. We believe that such operations are essential to maintaining #PeaceThroughStrength in the region, and we applaud the crew of the @USSMilius for their professionalism and dedication.
SOUTH CHINA SEA (April 16, 2023) – Ensign Zachary Bradberry, from Pflugerville, Texas, stands watch on the bridge aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) while conducting routing underway operations. Milius is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Greg Johnson)
The U.S. Navy said its guided-missile destroyer USS Milius conducted a navigational rights and freedoms mission in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands on Monday.
The announcement came as China’s military simulated precision strikes against Taiwan in military drills around the island amid growing tensions between China and the U.S. in the region.
The U.S. Navy said the operation by the destroyer was consistent with international law.
United States Navy has a long and proud history of defending the nation’s interests and protecting American freedom around the world. One organization that supports this mission is Americans for a Stronger Navy, a group of members and subscribers who advocate for a robust and well-funded Navy.
USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group
Summary
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, which is currently deployed in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations. We’ll examine the role of this strike group in defending U.S., allied, and partner interests, and highlight the capabilities of the carrier and its supporting vessels.USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group
The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group:
The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is a powerful naval force that includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black, and a range of other supporting vessels. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is also part of the strike group, providing offensive air and strike capabilities.
The strike group is currently deployed in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, where it is employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests. This area of operations covers a vast region, including the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and North Atlantic, as well as the land areas of Europe and Africa.
Capabilities of the Carrier and Supporting Vessels:
The USS George H.W. Bush is a formidable aircraft carrier that can carry up to 90 aircraft and has a crew of over 5,000 sailors. It is powered by two nuclear reactors, which give it virtually unlimited range and endurance. The carrier is equipped with advanced radar and communications systems, as well as a range of defensive and offensive weapons.
The USS Delbert D. Black is a guided-missile destroyer that is designed to provide air defense for the carrier strike group. It is equipped with the latest Aegis combat system, which can track and engage multiple targets simultaneously. The destroyer is also armed with a range of missiles, guns, and torpedoes, making it a formidable adversary for any would-be aggressor.
Conclusion:
The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is an essential component of U.S. naval power, and its deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations is a clear demonstration of American commitment to defending its interests and those of its allies and partners. As members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we can take pride in knowing that our advocacy helps support the men and women who serve in this critical mission.
Greetings to our members and subscribers, as we work together to promote peace through strength. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to our mission, and we are excited to share the latest developments in the Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition, which aims to explore the possibilities for the planned Navy museum.
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro unveiled conceptual renderings from five architecture firms at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy
Summary
The Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition recently unveiled conceptual renderings from five architecture firms at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy. The competition aimed to explore the full realm of artistic ideas that could be incorporated into the new Navy museum.
“We are pleased to display five visions for the future of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, “while each concept is different, all of them show how we might celebrate our Navy’s accomplishments, honor our veterans and point the way toward the Navy’s future.” new building and the potential renovation of existing historical buildings. The planned museum campus would consist of approximately 270,000 square feet and include about 100,000 square feet of net gallery space.
Competition Overview: From Initial Interest to Final Selection
In December, 80 firms expressed interest in participating in the ideas competition, and 37 firms submitted qualifications. Finally, the Navy selected five architecture firms as finalists: Bjarke Ingels Group, DLR Group, Frank Gehry Partners, Perkins & Will, and Quinn Evans. These finalists were tasked with developing their unique submissions of conceptual ideas for the museum.
Finalists’ Concepts: A Celebration of Navy’s Accomplishments and Future
Since January, the firms developed their unique submissions of conceptual ideas to include a museum entrance, an atrium, a ceremonial courtyard, and the incorporation of some of the Navy’s larger artifacts, like a Corsair aircraft, a Swift Boat, and the sail of a submarine. According to Secretary Del Toro, “while each concept is different, all of them show how we might celebrate our Navy’s accomplishments, honor our veterans, and point the way toward the Navy’s future.”
Why Preserving Navy History Matters
Preserving Navy history is a vital part of our national heritage, and understanding the Navy’s contributions to our nation is essential to fostering a sense of national pride and identity. The museum will help us appreciate our national heritage, and honoring the brave men and women who have served our country in the Navy is a crucial part of preserving Navy history. Moreover, preserving Navy history provides valuable insights into how the Navy has adapted to changing circumstances over time.
The final canvases from the competition will remain on display for public viewing at the Navy’s National Museum on the Washington Navy Yard. Access hours are limited because of the museum’s consolidation, and NHHC plans additional public showcases this summer. Anyone wishing to share ideas or to comment on these Navy museum concepts can find the Navy on Facebook or email by clicking here.
Following the SECNAV’s October announcement of the preferred location for the Navy’s planned museum, Naval History and Heritage Command moved forward with its conceptual development phase and initiated the ideas competition in an effort to explore the full realm of artistic ideas that might be incorporated into a new museum.
The competition sought concepts and ideas for the planned project from a broad range of individuals and architecture firms. Following the initial announcement in December, 80 firms expressed interest in participating; 37 firms then submitted qualifications, and finally, the Navy selected five architecture firms as finalists: Bjarke Ingels Group, DLR Group, Frank Gehry Partners, Perkins & Will and Quinn Evans.
Since January, the firms developed their unique submissions of conceptual ideas to include a museum entrance, an atrium, a ceremonial courtyard, and the incorporation of some of the Navy’s larger artifacts, like a Corsair aircraft, a Swift Boat, and the sail of a submarine.
“The concepts unveiled today are a crucial step in exploring what is possible for the new National Museum of the U.S. Navy,” said NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, U.S. Navy rear admiral (retired). “We’ll tell the story of the Navy’s history as it continues to unfold, and the ideas developed by our finalists herald a new way of honoring that history by inviting visitors to participate.”
We hope that the Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition has inspired you to support our mission of promoting peace through strength. The Navy museum is an essential part of our history and will help future generations understand the significance of the Navy’s contributions to our nation. As always, we encourage you to be an active supporter by subscribing to our organization, and we thank you for your time and for supporting a Stronger Navy.
Dear members and subscribers, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy would like to greet you all.
We are delighted to share the news of the launch and christening of the USS Cleveland, the latest addition to the U.S. Navy’s fleet.
As an organization that promotes peace through strength, this milestone event is consistent with our mission. We hope this blog post will inform and inspire you to support our cause by subscribing to our website.
Navy to christen new ‘USS Cleveland’
Wikimedia Commons
Introduction
The U.S. Navy is set to launch and christen the Lockheed Martin USS Cleveland (LCS 31) its newest combat ship, in a shipyard in Marinette, Wisconsin, today April 15, 2023.
The USS Cleveland, a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship, is set to be launched and christened in Marinette, Wisconsin on Saturday morning, according to a press release from the U.S. Navy. It is the 16th and final Freedom-variant LCS and the fourth ship to be named in honor of the city.
The USS Cleveland is designed for missions along coastal areas, such as counteracting mines and submarines, and conducting coastal surface warfare.
This ship, which is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the city’s name, is 387 feet long and has accommodations for 98 sailors. It can carry two helicopters and is designed for missions along coastal areas, such as counteracting mines and submarines, and conducting coastal surface warfare.
The last ships to be named the USS Cleveland include a World War I cruiser, a World War II light cruiser, and a Vietnam-era amphibious transport dock that was decommissioned in 2011.
“This christening is a significant milestone for the future USS Cleveland, the ship’s sponsor Mrs. Robyn Modly, and the prospective crew,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. “LCS 31 will be another step closer to joining our fleet, sailing the open seas, continuing to defend our nation, and representing the strong connection our Navy has with the city of Cleveland.”
The USS Cleveland will be launched into Wisconsin’s Menominee River and will make its way to its permanent base in Mayport, Florida.
Key Takeaways
The USS Cleveland is the newest addition to the U.S. Navy’s fleet and is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the city’s name.
The USS Cleveland is 387 feet long and has accommodations for 98 sailors. It can carry two helicopters and is designed for missions along coastal areas.
The ship will be launched into Wisconsin’s Menominee River and will make its way to its permanent base in Mayport, Florida.
The USS Cleveland is capable of handling a variety of tasks from anti-submarine duties to dropping off Navy SEALs.
The USS Cleveland is a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship designed for missions along coastal areas, such as counteracting mines and submarines, and conducting coastal surface warfare.
It is the 16th and final Freedom-variant LCS and the fourth ship to be named in honor of the city of Cleveland.
The ship’s christening ceremony will feature remarks from Austin Davis, Senior Police Advisor for the City of Cleveland, and the bottle will be broken by Robyn Modly, wife of former Acting Secretary of the Navy and a Cleveland native.
The USS Cleveland’s christening is a significant milestone for the ship, its sponsor, and the prospective crew.
Conclusion
The launch and christening of the USS Cleveland is an important milestone for the U.S. Navy and the City of Cleveland.
As an organization that supports a stronger navy and promotes peace through strength, we are delighted to share this news with our members and subscribers.
We hope this blog post has informed and inspired you to support our cause by subscribing to our website. Let us continue to work together to ensure a stronger navy for the safety and security of our nation.
Americans for a Stronger Navy is an organization that focuses on advocating for a stronger Navy to protect American interests and promote national security and Peace Through Strength.
As part of their outreach initiatives, the US Navy hosts Navy Weeks in partnership with various organizations throughout the country.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the USS San Jacinto, (CG-56) an active Navy ship that is currently participating in Navy Week in Wilmington, N.C. and with pleasure and opportunity to interview Captain Christopher E. Marvin, the USS San Jacinto Commanding Officer.
Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer, USS San Jacinto, (CG 56)
Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer, USS San Jacinto, (CG 56)
Captain Marvin is a native of rural northeastern Pennsylvania. He attended Pennsylvania State University graduating in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology. In November 1997, he entered Officer Candidate School in Pensacola Florida, and was commissioned in March of 1998.
His first sea tour of duty was aboard USS JOHN YOUNG (DD-973) in San Diego, California where he served as the Deck Officer from 1999 to 2001. In November 2001, he reported to USS BLACKHAWK (MHC-58) in Ingleside, Texas as the Engineer Officer and served on BLACKHAWK from 2001 to 2003.
Following his initial sea duty tours, Captain Marvin attended The Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California where he earned a Master of Science in Information Systems Technology and completed Joint Professional Military Education Phase I.
In June 2006, following completion of Department Head and Tactical Action Officer training, then Lieutenant Marvin, transferred to Naval Station Pearl Harbor Hawaii and reported for duty as the Engineer Officer aboard USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG-93).
In subsequent sea tours, he served as the Engineer Officer aboard USS CHOSIN (CG-65) in Pearl Harbor Hawaii, Executive Officer aboard USS HALYBURTON (FFG-40) in Mayport, Florida and USS SOMERSET (LPD-25) in San Diego, California and most recently as Commanding Officer of USS DETROIT (LCS-7) Gold Crew in Mayport, FL.
In addition to his shore tour at the Naval Postgraduate School, Captain Marvin also served ashore on the Commander Naval Surface Force Staff in the N8 Directorate from 2009 to 2011 followed by a one-year tour of duty on the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa Staff in Djibouti, as a student at the Joint Forces Staff College and most recently on the Commander Naval Surface Forces Staff serving as deputy assistant Chief of Staff for future requirements.
Captain Marvin’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal; Navy Commendation Medal; Navy Achievement Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; and various other unit and service awards.
Interview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin
Question and Answer with Bill Cullifer, Founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy and Captain Marvin, Commanding Officer San Jacinto:
Q: Captain Marvin, what would you like the American public to know about the Navy’s mission today, and what they can do to help support that mission?
A: “America remains a global leader with global interests. Households and businesses throughout the United States benefit from the steady flow of resources and goods across oceans. Our modern economy depends on access to the internet, which rides upon undersea fiber-optic cables. This is a critical decade – maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of the United States. The rules-based international order depends upon free and open oceans. The United States Navy protects the sea lines of communication, which facilitates 98% of the world’s trade and commerce. The American people play the vital role in providing the workforce and industrial support that sends our warships to sea and is the base from which our highly intelligent, industrious and growing technology savvy Sailors enter service to their Navy and Nation. Support for local businesses and industries will effectively translate to direct material support to the increasingly complex and diverse challenges maritime security. Additionally, focus on continuing education in both technologically advanced and classical trade skills will provide the industrial-technological base that will be crucial to maintain peace through vigilance today and win any future battles that threaten our sea, land, air, and space access and interests.”
V/r, -Chris Captain Chris Marvin, USN Commanding Officer, USS SAN JACINTO (CG56) “Victory is Certain”
Navy Weeks
Navy Weeks are a series of events that provide opportunities for the Navy to showcase its assets, equipment, and personnel. These programs are designed to educate Americans on the importance of naval service, increase awareness in cities that might not otherwise see the Navy at work, and showcase the Navy’s global deployment. The USS San Jacinto is currently participating in Navy Week in Wilmington, NC, and the public is invited to take a tour of the ship.
USS San Jacinto(CG-56)
USS San Jacinto (CG-56)
The USS San Jacinto, (CG-56) is an active Navy ship that has been in commission for over three decades. It has traveled across international waters and has been involved in several operations, including firing the opening shots of Operation Desert Storm. In 2020, the ship broke the U.S. Navy record for most consecutive days at sea, with a total of 206 days. It is a formidable vessel that serves to protect American interests and promote national security.
Tours of the USS San Jacinto, (CG-56)
Tours of the USS San Jacinto will be available on Friday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is encouraged to visit Godwin Stadium, where a security check will occur before a bus transports visitors to the ship. Walk-ins are welcome, and visitors are only asked to bring their ID and wear closed-toed shoes.
This is a unique opportunity to see firsthand the inner workings of an active Navy ship and to learn more about the importance of naval service.
Reflecting on Navy Week in Wilmington, NC
As Navy Week comes to a close in Wilmington, NC, we reflect on the valuable opportunity it provides for the Navy to showcase its assets and educate Americans on the importance of naval service.
OurInterview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin
During our interview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer of the USS San Jacinto, we gained valuable insights into the importance of the Navy’s mission in protecting national security and promoting peace through strength. Captain Marvin emphasized the vital role played by the American public in supporting the Navy’s mission through workforce and industrial support. Additionally, he highlighted the crucial role of continuing education in both technologically advanced and classical trade skills for maintaining the Navy’s industrial-technological base, which is essential for maintaining peace through vigilance today and winning any future battles that threaten our sea, land, air, and space access and interests.
Partnership for Peace Through Strength
As an organization that advocates for a stronger Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy recognizes the importance of a partnership between the Navy and the American public in promoting national security and peace through strength. Events like Navy Week provide valuable opportunities for the Navy to showcase its assets and educate Americans on the importance of naval service.
Gratitude for All Involved
We would like to extend our gratitude to Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer of the USS San Jacinto, the crew of the USS San Jacinto, and all those responsible for managing and organizing the event, including the unsung heroes behind the scenes. We thank them for their service, their dedication to promoting the mission of the Navy, and their service to our country.
Importance of Naval Service
The public was able to tour the USS San Jacinto during Navy Week, gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of naval service in protecting American interests and promoting national security and Peace Through Strength.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stands with Carlito Galvez Jr., senior undersecretary and officer in charge of the Department of National Defense of the Philippines, before a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon, April 12, 2023.
Introduction
Greetings to the members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy, dedicated to promoting Peace Through Strength. Today, we bring you an update on the U.S.-Philippines alliance, a crucial partnership for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
U.S.-Philippines alliance makes rapid strides
In a recent meeting at the Pentagon, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Carlito Galvez Jr., senior undersecretary of the Department of National Defense of the Philippines, discussed deepening military-to-military contacts between the two nations. The meeting came as the Balikatan exercise, the largest joint exercise in years, kicked off in the Philippines.
Commitment to principles
The U.S.-Philippines alliance is committed to the principles of transparency, freedom of navigation, the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, all of which are being challenged in many places globally. Austin highlighted that the mutual defense treaty applies to armed attacks on either of their armed forces, or public vessels or aircraft anywhere in the South China Sea.
Bolstering capabilities
The two nations have also made significant progress in bolstering the capabilities and capacities of their respective armed forces to resist coercion and gray zone aggression. They are close to finalizing a security sector assistance roadmap to strengthen deterrence and align defense investments with the evolving security environment.
Enhancing cooperation
Moreover, they are expanding cooperation under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement to make their armed forces more flexible, resilient, and better able to train and operate together.
Key Takeaways
The U.S.-Philippines alliance is making significant progress in upgrading their partnership.
Both nations are committed to the principles of transparency, freedom of navigation, the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
The mutual defense treaty applies to armed attacks on either of their armed forces, or public vessels or aircraft anywhere in the South China Sea.
They are close to finalizing a security sector assistance roadmap to strengthen deterrence and align defense investments with the evolving security environment.
They are expanding cooperation under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement to make their armed forces more flexible, resilient, and better able to train and operate together.
Conclusion
The U.S.-Philippines alliance is a crucial partnership for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. By upgrading their partnership, both nations can better resist coercion and gray zone aggression and uphold the principles of transparency, freedom of navigation, the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Stat tuned
We urge our readers to support the Americans for a Stronger Navy and our mission by subscribing to our website and staying informed on important updates such as this one.
Hello members and subscribers, we are pleased to present an article that showcases the Navy’s global deployment and outreach initiatives.
The USS San Jacinto (CG-56), an active Navy ship with over 300 sailors onboard, has made its way to Wilmington, North Carolina for Navy Week.
Peace Through Strength
As an organization committed to promoting peace through strength, we believe this outreach program is an essential aspect of the Navy’s mission.
Navy Weeks: Showcasing the Navy’s Assets and Importance of Service
Navy Weeks are outreach initiatives that provide opportunities for the Navy to showcase its assets, equipment, and personnel by hosting a week-long series of events in partnership with various organizations throughout the city.
These programs are designed to educate Americans on the importance of naval service, increase awareness in cities that might not otherwise see the Navy at work, and showcase the Navy’s global deployment.
USS San Jacinto: Traveling Across International Waters
The USS San Jacinto has been in commission for over three decades and has traveled across international waters. The ship’s name originates from the 1836 battle that took place on the San Jacinto River during the Texas Revolution.
After being commissioned in the late 80s, it fired the opening shots of Operation Desert Storm. In 2020, the ship broke the U.S. Navy record for most consecutive days at sea, with a total of 206 days.
Tours of the USS San Jacinto
Tours will be available of the USS San Jacinto on Friday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The public is encouraged to visit the Godwin Stadium, located at 121 Shipyard Blvd. in Wilmington, where a security check will occur before a bus transports visitors to the ship.
Walk-ins are welcome, and visitors are only asked to bring their ID and wear closed-toed shoes.
Key Takeaways:
Navy Weeks are outreach initiatives designed to educate Americans on the importance of naval service, increase awareness in cities that might not otherwise see the Navy at work, and showcase the Navy’s global deployment.
The USS San Jacinto, an active Navy ship, has made its way to Wilmington, NC, for Navy Week.
The ship has been in commission for over three decades, has traveled across international waters, and broke the U.S. Navy record for most consecutive days at sea in 2020.
Tours of the USS San Jacinto will be available on Friday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The public is encouraged to visit Godwin Stadium, where a security check will occur before a bus transports visitors to the ship.
Conclusion:
We hope this article has informed and inspired our readers to support the Navy’s outreach initiatives. By increasing awareness of the Navy’s global deployment and the importance of naval service, we can promote peace through strength.
As an active supporter of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, we encourage our readers to subscribe to our mission and continue supporting a stronger Navy.
