Author: Robert Luster

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130 Years of Tradition and Leadership: Celebrating the U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers

Navy Cheif Hat

On behalf of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, we would like to extend our sincerest apologies for the belated birthday wishes to our United States Navy Chief Petty Officers.

We understand the importance of this occasion and the invaluable contribution of the Chief Petty Officers to the U.S. Navy and the nation.

We honor their legacy and celebrate their commitment to duty, honor, and country. Although our birthday wishes are belated, we want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank all Chief Petty Officers for their unwavering dedication and leadership in shaping the Navy’s core values and traditions.

As the United States Navy Chief Petty Officers celebrate their birthday on April 1st, it is a time to reflect on the 130-year history and the invaluable contribution of these officers to the Navy and the nation. The role of Chief Petty Officers (CPOs) in the U.S. Navy is an important one, and their legacy dates back to the very inception of the Navy.

The origins of the Chief Petty Officer rank can be traced back to the early days of the U.S. Navy, when sailors were divided into two distinct classes: officers and enlisted personnel.

It was not until 1893 that the Navy formally recognized the need for a senior enlisted rank to serve as a bridge between the officers and enlisted sailors.

The rank of Chief Petty Officer was created, and the first class of CPOs was appointed on April 1, 1893.

Since then, the Chief Petty Officer rank has become an integral part of the U.S. Navy, with CPOs serving as leaders, mentors, and role models for the enlisted sailors under their command.

They are responsible for ensuring that their sailors are well-trained, disciplined, and ready to perform their duties at all times. CPOs also serve as the primary link between the enlisted sailors and the officers, ensuring that the needs and concerns of the sailors are heard and addressed.

The role of Chief Petty Officers has evolved over time, but their commitment to excellence and the Navy’s core values has remained unchanged. Today’s CPOs are expected to be experts in their respective fields, as well as leaders and mentors to the sailors under their command. They are responsible for training and preparing their sailors for a wide range of tasks, from routine maintenance and repair to combat operations in hostile environments.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy recognize the invaluable contribution of the Chief Petty Officers to the U.S. Navy and the nation.

We join in the celebration of their birthday and thank them for their unwavering commitment to duty, honor, and country.

Without the dedication and leadership of our CPOs, the Navy would not be the formidable force it is today. We salute all Chief Petty Officers and wish them a happy birthday!

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Hypersonic Air-Launched Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare weapon program Welcomed by Americans for a Stronger Navy

The Navy has awarded contracts to two defense giants, Lockheed-Martin and Raytheon, to separately develop prototype ship-sinking hypersonic missiles for the program

As an organization dedicated to promoting a strong and capable U.S. Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy welcomes the recent investment by the Navy in the development of a new hypersonic ship-killing missile known as HALO.

A contractor-derived rendering of the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, or .
Raytheon Missiles & Defense and Northrop Grumman are developing the next-generation Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, also known as HACM

HALO is a carrier-based offensive anti-ship strike weapon that supports the U.S. Navy’s long range fires strategy.

Press reports reflect that this new weapon is expected to have both anti-ship and hypersonic capabilities, making it a powerful tool for targeting and destroying enemy ships from a safe distance.

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of this investment, as well as the potential impact that HALO could have in a potential conflict with China in the western Pacific.

As the world becomes more interconnected and tensions rise between nations, it is crucial for countries to invest in their defense capabilities.

For the United States, this means ensuring that the Navy remains a strong and capable force, capable of deterring potential adversaries and protecting American interests around the world.

Recently, the U.S. Navy has taken a major step towards maintaining its strength by investing in the development of a new hypersonic ship-killing missile known as HALO (Hypersonic Air-launched Offensive).

What makes HALO unique is that it combines both anti-ship and hypersonic capabilities, allowing it to effectively target and destroy enemy ships from hundreds of miles away.

This new weapon is expected to be carried by carrier-based jets such as the FA-18E/F Super Hornet and F-35 Lightning, and possibly future successors. It is also expected to fly farther and faster than the current LRASM stealth cruise missile.

The focus on anti-ship capabilities in the development of HALO reflects the Navy’s recognition of the potential conflict with China in the western Pacific, particularly in the event of a battle over Taiwan.

Simulations have shown that the effectiveness of long-range anti-ship missiles will be critical in such a scenario, highlighting the importance of the Navy’s investment in the HALO program.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. Navy is investing in the development of a new hypersonic ship-killing missile known as HALO.
  • HALO combines anti-ship and hypersonic capabilities and is expected to fly farther and faster than the current LRASM stealth cruise missile.

The Navy’s focus on anti-ship capabilities in the development of HALO reflects the potential conflict with China in the western Pacific, particularly in the event of a battle over Taiwan.

The effectiveness of long-range anti-ship missiles will be critical in a potential conflict with China, highlighting the importance of the Navy’s investment in the HALO program.

A strong and capable Navy is crucial for the United States to deter potential adversaries and protect American interests around the world.

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The Incredible Story of Navy SEAL Mike Day: A Hero’s Legacy

Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Douglas “Mike” Day looks to his family during the reading of the citation as his presentation of the 2008 Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs Grateful Nation Award in Crystal City, Va., Dec. 8, 2008. (MC1 Chad J. McNeeley/Defense Department

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Douglas “Mike” Day, a true American hero and a highly decorated Navy SEAL. Day’s incredible bravery and unwavering commitment to duty in the face of unimaginable adversity exemplify the very best of the U.S. Navy.

We offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow service members, and we thank him for his selfless service to our country.

May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.Mike Day, a highly decorated Navy SEAL who survived being shot 27 times in Iraq in 2007, passed away on March 27, 2023 according to press reports.

More About Mike Day

During a raid against an al Qaeda cell in Fallujah, Day was shot multiple times but managed to shoot and kill two of the terrorists.

He directed his team to guard a group of women and children found in the building and used the radio of a fellow SEAL who was killed during the raid to make contact with the rest of his team. Day was eventually evacuated from the battlefield and later retired from the Navy in 2010.

He went on to work as an advocate for wounded military veterans and wrote an autobiography, “Perfectly Wounded,” which was published in 2020. Available at bookstores everywhere.

The resilience of people who have gone through trauma is incredible.

More About Navy Seal Teams
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Advocating for a Strong Navy: Spotlight on the Fleet Reserve Association

As Americans, we have a responsibility to support and defend our nation, and one of the most important ways we can do this is by advocating for a strong and capable military. That’s why te Americans for a Stronger Navy members are proud to feature the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) as part of our ongoing efforts to support our men and women in uniform.

In this blog post, we will explore the important work of the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) and highlight their contributions to our nation’s military and veterans.

The Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and benefits of active duty, reserve, and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Founded in 1924, the FRA is the oldest and largest organization of its kind, with over 50,000 members and more than 200 branches across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

The mission of the FRA is to enhance and safeguard the pay, benefits, and quality of life for all members of the sea services and their families, as well as to promote a strong national defense and a robust U.S. Navy. The FRA achieves this mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

  • Legislative advocacy: The FRA works with Congress and the Department of Defense to ensure that sea service members receive the pay, benefits, and support they deserve.
  • Scholarships: The FRA offers a variety of scholarships to help members and their families pursue higher education.
  • Community service: The FRA supports a wide range of community service projects, including youth programs, veterans’ organizations, and disaster relief efforts.
  • Camaraderie: The FRA provides a sense of camaraderie and support for sea service members and their families, helping them to stay connected and informed.

The FRA is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, and has branches located throughout the United States and overseas. According to its website, “The FRA has worked to influence legislation that protects your rights and guarantees your benefits. In addition, the Association has been a watchdog on government activities that affect military readiness or overall national security.”

The FRA’s commitment to a strong national defense and a robust U.S. Navy aligns with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy, which seeks to educate and inform the public about the importance of a strong and capable Navy. As such, the FRA and Americans for a Stronger Navy share a common goal of ensuring that the sea services have the resources they need to protect our nation’s interests and promote global stability.

For additional information vist them on the web,

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Preserving Our Naval Heritage: The Important Mission of the Historic Naval Ships Association (HNSA)

The HNSA: Preserving Our Naval Heritage

The HNSA is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving historic naval vessels that played a significant role in our country’s maritime history. These vessels include some of the most iconic ships in the history of the United States Navy, such as the USS Constitution, the USS Missouri, and the USS Iowa.

The Battleship Missouri Memorial rests in the heart of Pearl Harbor offering activities and tours to Hawaii’s visitors from across the world.

The HNSA is committed to ensuring that these historic ships are maintained and preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from. This organization provides resources and support to its members, which include museums, non-profits, and government agencies. Through its annual conference, the HNSA brings together members from across the country to share knowledge and best practices, and to promote the preservation of historic naval ships.

Why We Should Honor and Support the HNSA

The preservation of our naval heritage is important for many reasons. Our naval history has played a significant role in shaping our country’s identity and values, and it continues to inform our national security strategies and policies today.

The HNSA is an organization that recognizes the importance of our naval heritage, and is dedicated to preserving it for future generations. By supporting this organization, we can ensure that our naval history is not forgotten, and that the lessons learned from it continue to inform our national security decisions.

The Importance of a Strong Navy

The HNSA’s mission is closely tied to the importance of a strong Navy. A strong Navy is essential to our national security, and it plays a crucial role in protecting our interests around the world.

A strong Navy requires more than just modern ships and advanced technology; it requires a deep understanding and appreciation of our naval history and traditions. By preserving and promoting our naval heritage, the HNSA is helping to ensure that we have a strong Navy that can meet the challenges of the future.

Conclusion

The Historic Naval Ships Association is an organization that we should honor and support for its dedication to preserving our naval heritage. Our naval history has played a significant role in shaping our country’s identity and values, and it continues to inform our national security decisions today.

“At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe that a strong Navy is essential to our national security. The @HNSA_Shps mission is closely tied to this belief, as preserving our naval heritage is crucial to maintaining a strong Navy for the future. As the saying goes, rising tides lift all boats, and a strong Navy benefits us all.”

By supporting the @HNSA_Shps and visiting its historic ships, families can not only enjoy a unique and educational experience, but also contribute to the preservation of our naval heritage and the strengthening of our Navy. Big Ships, Small Ships, fun for the whole family!”

Follow this link to their website.

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US Navy Successfully Intercepts Medium-Range Ballistic Missile in Test

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency, in cooperation with the U.S. Navy, successfully conducted Flight Test Aegis Weapon System 31 Event 1a (FTM-31 E1a).

USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118), (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Hall)

The test aimed to demonstrate the capability of a ballistic missile defense ship to detect, track, engage, and intercept a medium-range ballistic missile target.

The USS Daniel Inouye fired two SM-6 Dual II missiles to successfully intercept the target launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kauai, Hawaii. Missile Defense Agency Director Vice Adm. Jon Hill congratulated the entire test team, including sailors and industry partners, for achieving this milestone in an operationally realistic scenario.

  • The US Navy successfully intercepted a medium-range ballistic missile in a test on March 30, 2023.
  • The test was conducted in cooperation with the US Missile Defense Agency and aimed to demonstrate the capability of a ballistic missile defense ship to detect, track, engage, and intercept a medium-range ballistic missile target.
  • The USS Daniel Inouye fired two SM-6 Dual II missiles to successfully intercept the target launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kauai, Hawaii.
  • The successful interception was described as “an incredible accomplishment” and “a key milestone” by the Missile Defense Agency Director Vice Adm. Jon Hill.
  • The test team, including sailors and industry partners, were congratulated for achieving this milestone in an operationally realistic scenario.

About USS Daniel Inouye

The USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) is named in honor of Daniel Inouye, who served as a United States Senator for Hawaii from 1963 until his death in 2012.

USS Daniel Inouye is a Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are multi-mission ships able to hold targets on land, at sea, in the air, and under water at risk with a suite of sophisticated weapons and sensors.

Senator Inouye received the Medal of Honor on June 21, 2000 for his extraordinary heroism in action while serving with the 442nd Infantry Regimental Combat Team in Italy during World War II.

“Following delivery to the Navy in March 2021, the entire team has continued to prepare DDG 118 for this important readiness milestone,” said Capt. Seth Miller, DDG 51 program manager, Arleigh Burke-class program office, Program Executive Office, Ships. “The fleet will soon be receiving an advanced warship capable of performing the core roles of sea control and power projection.”

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Navy commissions USS Santa Barbara

The Navy will commission the USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) on April 1, 2023, as the newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship in Port Hueneme, California.

The Independence-variant variant littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) is in port at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) for its commissioning ceremony, March 31, 2023. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Drew Verbis)

The ship’s sponsor is Mrs. Lolita Zinke, and the ceremony will feature notable speakers such as Admiral Samuel Paparo and U.S. Representative Julia Brownley.

The #USSSantaBarbara is named after the city with a strong military history and connection with the Navy and Marine Corps.

The ship is part of the LCS class of ships, which consist of two variants, the Freedom and the Independence, designed and built by two industry teams with the Independence-variant team led by Austal USA for LCS 6 and the subsequent even-numbered hulls, including the USS Santa Barbara.

Littoral Combat Ships are fast, mission-tailored surface combatants designed to operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments. USS Santa Barbara is the third U.S. ship to bear the name Santa Barbara, with the previous two being a single-screw steel freighter and a Kilauea-class ammunition ship.

The commissioning ceremony will be live-streamed at www.dvidshub.net/webcast/31155.

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US Navy Ramps Up Chaplain Deployment to Tackle Escalating Mental Health Crisis Among Sailors

The US Navy is deploying more chaplains aboard ships to address the growing mental health concerns among its sailors, including an increase in suicides.

Chaplains are being deployed to connect with sailors, regardless of their religious affiliation, and provide them with confidential counseling.

Navy officials hope to have 47 chaplains on ships based in Norfolk, Virginia, up from 37 today, and to enhance access to mental health care without stigma or retaliation.

Suicide and mental health concerns among enlisted men under 29 are rising, with more than 500 service members taking their own lives in 2021.

US Navy Chaplain Responsibilities

According to the official website of the Navy Chaplain Corps, the daily responsibilities of a US Navy Chaplain include:

Providing religious ministry: The chaplain conducts religious services and sacraments, such as Mass, Communion, and Baptism, to meet the religious needs of sailors and their families.

Counseling and pastoral care: Chaplains provide confidential counseling to sailors and their families on a variety of issues, including marital problems, financial difficulties, and personal stress.

Advising the command: The chaplain advises the command on the religious and spiritual needs of the crew and provides guidance on ethical and moral issues.

Crisis response: Chaplains are trained to provide crisis response and emotional support during natural disasters, accidents, and combat situations.

Training and development: The chaplain also provides training and development programs to sailors and their families on religious and spiritual topics.

Source: United States Navy Chaplain Corps, “Roles and Responsibilities,” accessed March 30, 2023, https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/chaplain/Pages/Roles-and-Responsibilities.aspx.

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Raytheon Awarded Contract for Navy Radars

Raytheon Technologies has been awarded a $619 million contract to produce AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy. This contract is the second option exercised from the March 2022 hardware, production, and sustainment contract, which is valued up to $3 billion over five years.

The SPY-6 radars can defend against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, hostile aircraft, and surface ships simultaneously, and provide significantly greater detection range, increased sensitivity, and more accurate discrimination than legacy radars.

The radars are being integrated into the US fleet, and this contract will enable them to be added to more ships, including the first of existing Flight IIA destroyers that will be modernized.

About Raytheon Technologies
Raytheon Technologies (NYSE: RTX) is the world’s largest aerospace and defense company. Our global team of 180,000 employees pushes the limits of known science and redefines how we connect and protect our world. We are advancing aviation, building smarter defense systems and creating innovations to take us deeper into space. The company, with 2022 sales of $67 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

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US Navy won’t be “bullied” says Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney

The commander of a US Navy aircraft carrier in Northeast Asia, Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, has said that American forces will not be deterred by China’s warnings of conflict.

On Board the USS Nimitz courtesy of Sky News

“We’re resolute in that we’re not going to be bullied, we’re not going to be coerced, and we are going to stay here and fly and operate in international norms,” said Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, who heads up Carrier Strike Group 11, a flotilla of warships led by the “supercarrier” USS Nimitz.The USS Nimitz and its escorts have arrived in South Korea after back-to-back war games with Japan and South Korea.

China is challenging America’s right to operate in the region, but Sweeney stated that the Navy will sail, operate and fly wherever international law allows, and they do not seek conflict with China.

About Rear Admiral Christopher Sweeney

Rear Admiral Christopher Sweeney
Commander, Carrier Strike Group ELEVEN

Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney is a native of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, a 1991 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and also a graduate of the Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University, with a master’s degree in International Policy and Practice.

Sweeney has served in a diverse range of sea and shore assignments. As a surface warfare officer, he commanded Destroyer Squadron 15 (CDS 15) from 2015 to 2016 in the Western Pacific and the Destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73) from 2009 to 2010, deploying twice to the Arabian Gulf in support of U.S. and Coalition Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

His service at sea since 1992 includes assignments aboard USS Russell (DDG 59), USS Port Royal (CG 73), USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), USS Cyclone (PC 1) and USS San Jacinto (CG 56) deployed to the Middle East, Western Pacific, Mediterranean and South America.

His shore tours included deputy for Combat Systems and Warfighting Integration, responsible for future surface combatant force requirements and integration of warfighting investments for the Director of Surface Warfare (N-96). He has also served as the branch head for Integrated Air & Missile Defense for the Director of Surface Warfare (N-96) and as a strategic and political-military planner on the staffs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (J-5) and the Chief of Naval Operations.

His first flag tour was as the deputy director for Policy, Plans, Strategy, Capabilities and Resources (J-5/8), U.S. European Command in Stuttgart, Germany. He is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Eleven.

His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Service Medal and various personal, unit, service and campaign awards.