Author: Robert Luster

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Admiral Gilday’s Visit to Manila Highlights the Importance of the U.S. Navy’s Presence in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines (Feb. 22, 2023) – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday meets with Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino during his visit to Manila, Philippines, Feb. 22. Gilday visited the Philippines to engage with government officials and military leadership to discuss interoperability and further advance regional maritime security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist MC1 Michael B. Zingaro/released)

In February 2023, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday, accompanied by his wife Linda, traveled to Manila, Philippines, to meet with military and government officials. The visit focused on U.S. and Philippine maritime domain awareness and naval capabilities, and the importance of the U.S.-Philippine alliance to peace and stability in the region. Gilday’s visit highlights the continued importance of the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines to America’s national security interests and the close relationship between the U.S. and the Philippines.

Why is the U.S. Navy’s Presence in the Philippines Important for America?

The United States Navy has a long history in the Philippines, and its presence in the region is critical for America’s national security interests, both economically and militarily. The Indo-Pacific region is home to some of the world’s busiest sea lanes, which are critical for trade and commerce. The U.S. Navy helps to ensure the free and open navigation of these sea lanes and the unimpeded flow of goods and services. In addition, the Navy’s presence in the region serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries, maintaining the balance of power and stability in the region.

Why is the U.S.-Philippine Alliance Important for Americans?

The U.S.-Philippine alliance is essential for Americans as it promotes stability and security in the region, prevents conflict, and protects American interests. The United States has a deep and long-standing relationship with the Philippines that dates back to the early 20th century. The alliance allows for close cooperation between the two countries in areas such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and disaster response. The two countries share a commitment to promoting democracy and human rights, and the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines reinforces this commitment.

CNO Gilday’s Visit to Manila Highlights Importance of U.S.-Philippine Alliance

During his visit, CNO Gilday met with senior officials, including U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino, and Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. The engagements focused on U.S. and Philippine maritime domain awareness and naval capabilities, and the importance of the U.S.-Philippine alliance to peace and stability in the region. The visit also served as a reminder of the deep bonds of friendship and camaraderie that exist between the U.S. Navy and the Philippine Navy. Gilday’s trip to Manila was part of a regional tour that also included a visit to Australia. It was Gilday’s first visit to the Philippines as CNO.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines is a vital part of America’s national security strategy, and the U.S.-Philippine alliance is critical to promoting stability and security in the region.

CNO Gilday’s visit to Manila serves as a reminder of the important work that Navy sailors do in promoting regional security and stability. The United States and the Philippines share a deep and abiding friendship, and the two countries will continue to work closely together in the future to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific

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Virginia Siblings Make History as First Black Triplets to Enlist in the Navy

Sutton triplets, pictured attending elementary school
Inage courtesy of the
Sutton Famoly

The Sutton siblings from Virginia, Ayrion, Andrea, and Adrion, have recently made history by becoming the first Black triplets to enlist in the Navy.

Inspired by their parents, who met while serving on the USS Arctic in 1999, the siblings have made enlisting in the Navy a family affair. Adrion Sutton, the youngest of the triplets, first expressed interest in joining the Navy in high school.

The Sutton triplets have always been curious about their parents’ experiences serving in the Navy and have been encouraged by their parents to pursue their dreams. Their father, Andre Sutton, recently reenlisted and said that his children inspired him.

The Suttons’ enlistment represents a legacy of bravery and service within their family.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sutton siblings from Virginia, Ayrion, Andrea, and Adrion, have become the first Black triplets to enlist in the Navy.
  • The siblings were inspired by their parents, who met while serving on the USS Arctic in 1999.
  • The Sutton triplets have always been curious about their parents’ experiences serving in the Navy and have been encouraged by their parents to pursue their dreams.
  • The siblings’ father, Andre Sutton, recently reenlisted and said that his children inspired him.
  • The Suttons’ enlistment represents a legacy of bravery and service within their family.
  • StrongerNavy.org Celebrates the Sutton Siblings’ Enlistment

At StrongerNavy.org, we celebrate the Sutton siblings’ historic enlistment in the Navy. Their story is a reminder of the importance of family and the role of the Navy in providing opportunities for growth and personal development.

We thank the Sutton siblings for their service and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. We also extend our gratitude to their parents and all service members who have made sacrifices to serve our country. StrongerNavy.org remains committed to advocating for a strong and capable Navy that can continue to defend our nation and protect our interests around the world.

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USS Nitze Returns from Eight-Month Deployment Supporting Maritime Security Operations

USS Nitze returns to homeport after an eight-month deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the 2nd, 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kris R. Lindstrom)

Welcome Home USS Nitze

The USS Nitze (DDG 94) returned to its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk on April 5th, 2023, after an eight-month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

The ship conducted a variety of missions, including maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts, and counter-narcotics and counter-weapons smuggling operations as part of Operation Unified Takedown. The crew had the opportunity to visit several regions and strengthen important allied and partner relationships.

The successful completion of their mission is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the crew, and the Americans for Stronger Navy organization is proud to welcome them home.

The ship supported maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts and worked with the Yemen Coast Guard to rescue three civilians from a burning boat in the Gulf of Aden.

In addition, Nitze participated in Exercise Juniper Oak 23-2, the largest bi-lateral U.S.-Israeli exercise in history, and the NATO-led vigilance activity Neptune Strike 23.1. Key takeaways from the deployment include:

Nitze recovered two U.S. Saildrone Explorer unmanned surface vehicles captured by an Iranian ship in the Red Sea.

Cmdr. Katie Jacobson-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94), U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kris R. Lindstrom

Cmdr. Katie Jacobson relieved Cmdr. Sam Sareini as commanding officer during a change of command ceremony in the Gulf of Aden.

The ship completed numerous visit, board, search, and seizure operations, resulting in the seizure of 2,200 kilograms of hash and 320 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine worth an estimated $43 million.

The crew had the opportunity to experience the regions of Rota, Spain; Eilat, Israel; Aqaba, Jordan; Salalah, Oman; Duqm, Oman; Djibouti; Rome, Italy; Gölcük, Türkiye; and Valletta, Malta during scheduled port visits.

The deployment highlighted the Nitze’s commitment to advancing maritime security and strengthening relationships with allies and partners across the theaters.

Cmdr. Katie Jacobson expressed pride in her crew’s achievements and reflected on the ship’s role as ambassadors ashore.

This deployment serves as a reminder of the importance of a stronger navy to maintain peace through strength.

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US Navy Sailors Visit Busan: A Reminder of the Rich History and Importance of US-Korea Alliance

BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA
03.30.2023
Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Kevin Tang

Americans for a Stronger Navy is an organization dedicated to supporting the US Navy and promoting a stronger Navy and peace through strength. Our mission is to educate the public on the importance of a strong Navy in maintaining regional stability and national security, and advocate for policies that support a well-funded and well-equipped Navy. By strengthening our military capabilities, we aim to promote peace through strength and deter potential threats.

Historic Visit: US Navy Sailors Visit Busan, A Reminder of the Rich History and Importance of US-Korea Alliance

Today, we want to highlight the recent visit of the US Navy Sailors to Busan, Republic of Korea, and the exercises they participated in alongside Japan and South Korea.

These exercises not only enhance the interoperability and communication between the allied navies but also demonstrate the continued commitment of the US Navy to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The US Navy’s long-standing relationship with Busan serves as a reminder of the importance of our alliances and partnerships in promoting regional stability.

The United States Navy has a rich history of conducting exercises in Korea, and this tradition continues to this day. Recently, U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) visited Busan, Republic of Korea to participate in routine operations and exercises. In this blog post, we will summarize the recent exercises that are in the news, highlight the history of the US Navy’s visits to Busan, and express our gratitude to the men and women of the US Navy assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group.

Recent Exercises:

The recent exercises involving US Navy Sailors, Japan, and South Korea were aimed at enhancing interoperability and communication between the allied navies. These exercises are crucial in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific and maintaining regional stability. The exercises involved multiple ships and aircraft, and included anti-submarine and anti-air warfare drills.

During the exercises, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group conducted a guided tour of Busan, Republic of Korea provided by Morale, Welfare and Recreation. This tour provided an opportunity for the Sailors to experience the local culture and build relationships with the local community.

History of US Navy visits to Busan:

The US Navy has a long history of visiting Busan, Republic of Korea. Busan has a deep-water port that is strategically located at the southern end of the Korean peninsula, making it an important location for US Navy operations. During the Korean War, Busan served as the main port of entry for US troops and supplies. Since then, the US Navy has continued to conduct exercises and operations in Busan, strengthening the relationship between the US and South Korea.

Gratitude to the US Navy:

We would like to express our gratitude to the men and women of the US Navy assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group. These Sailors work tirelessly to protect our nation and promote regional stability. Their dedication to duty and professionalism are a testament to the values of the US Navy.

Conclusion:

The recent exercises involving US Navy Sailors, Japan, and South Korea are a reminder of the importance of our alliances and partnerships in maintaining regional stability. The US Navy has a long history of visiting Busan, Republic of Korea, and this tradition continues to this day. We are grateful for the men and women of the US Navy who serve with honor and distinction, and we look forward to the continued partnership between the US and South Korea.

Honoring the Service of US Navy Sailors: A Look at the Pictures from their Historic Visit to Busan

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (March 29, 2023) U.S. Navy Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Keirra Jackson, right, from Nashville, Tenn., and Fireman Autumn Behee, from San Antonio, assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) explore Busan during a Morale, Welfare and Recreation tour. NIMCSG is in the U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin Tang)
U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and members of the Busan Blue Wings display a gesture of sportsmanship following a hockey match. Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin McTaggart)
Lt. John Mulligan guides Sailors assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) during a tour of the demilitarized zone dividing the Korean peninsula. NIMCSG is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Breen)
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Flying High: The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation’s Mission to Preserve and Honor Naval Aviation History

Greetings to Members and Subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

Today, we are shining a spotlight on the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, one of the largest and most influential organizations supporting the U.S. Navy. As part of our ongoing effort to showcase auxiliary organizations that share our mission to educate and raise awareness about the importance of a strong Navy, we are excited to feature the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation on our blog at StrongerNavy.org.

The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation was established in 1966 and is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of naval aviation through supporting the National Naval Aviation Museum. With a revenue of over $20 million, the foundation has become one of the largest and most impactful organizations supporting the Navy’s aviation community.

The foundation’s mission is to educate and inspire the public on the history and development of naval aviation, as well as support the museum’s efforts to preserve and exhibit aircraft and artifacts of naval aviation. The foundation offers membership to individuals and organizations, with various levels of engagement and benefits.

As part of its programs and initiatives, the foundation hosts events, exhibitions, and educational programs for the public, including school tours, lectures, and STEM programs. The foundation also provides funding for the museum’s exhibits, restorations, and acquisitions, as well as supports the museum’s research and publications on naval aviation.

The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation’s impact on the Navy’s mission is significant, as it plays a crucial role in preserving the history and heritage of naval aviation and educating the public on its importance. Through its support of the National Naval Aviation Museum, the foundation ensures that future generations will understand and appreciate the Navy’s aviation community and its contributions to national defense.

The foundation’s work aligns with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy, as both organizations share a commitment to educating and raising awareness about the importance of a stronger Navy. By supporting the foundation’s efforts, readers can contribute to the preservation and exhibition of naval aviation history, as well as inspire future generations to pursue careers in naval aviation.

We encourage readers to support the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation by becoming members or making a donation to the foundation. For more information on the foundation and its programs, please visit their website at navalaviationfoundation.org.

Thank you for your support of a Stronger Navy.

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Contractors Lead the Way in Navy’s $1.2 Billion Investment to Boost ‘Fleet Forward’ Readiness and Modernize for Future Challenges

The Navy plays a vital role in ensuring the country’s security, protecting its interests around the world, and supporting humanitarian efforts.

We recognize that the Navy’s ongoing efforts to modernize and adapt to new challenges require innovative solutions. That’s why we launched the Fleet Forward Initiative, which aims to shine a spotlight on and support cutting-edge technologies, support services and ideas that will help the Navy maintain its strength and readiness for decades to come.

We also applaud the great work being done by the contractors who have been awarded these contracts, whose support services, innovative ideas and technologies will play a critical role in ensuring that the Navy remains the most powerful maritime force in the world.

Department of Defense Contracts

Professional Contract Services Inc., Austin, Texas, is awarded a $34,997,838 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity modification for contract N40085-20-D-0040. This modification provides for the exercise of Option Number Three for base operating support services at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and its outlying support sites. After award of this option, the total cumulative contract value will be $134,741,490. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, Virginia. This option period is from March 31, 2023, to March 29, 2024. No funds will be obligated at time of award. Fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance, (Navy) funds in the amount of $32,545,920 for recurring work will be obligated on an individual task orders issued during the option period. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity.

U.S. Marine Management Inc., Norfolk, Virginia (N3220523C4007), is awarded a $27,372,005 firm-fixed-price contract for the operation and maintenance of three government-owned large, medium-speed roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessels. The vessels under this award include USNS Seay (T-AKR 302), USNS Pililaau (T-AKR 304), and USNS Brittin (T-AKR 305). Work will be performed worldwide, with an expected completion date of Sept. 30, 2024. The maximum dollar value, including the base period and six month option, is $40,977,737. Working capital funds (Navy) in the amount of $13,739,119 are obligated for fiscal 2023. Contract funds in the amount of $27,372,005 will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The contract was prepared under the authority of 41 U.S. Code 3304(a)(2), as implemented by Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1 only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. The Navy’s Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity (N6238723C4007).

Lockheed Martin Space, Titusville, Florida, is awarded a $20,941,008 cost-plus-fixed-fee, level-of-effort and completion type contract modification (P00002) to previously awarded contract N0003022C2023 for engineering, technical support services, operational support hardware and consumable spares for the Fleet Ballistic Missile Program. Work will be performed in Denver, Colorado (24.64%); Valley Forge, Pennsylvania (23.30%); Cape Canaveral, Florida (23.21%); Titusville, Florida (9.75%); Sunnyvale, California (7.77%); Coulport, Scotland (4.19%); Kings Bay, Georgia (1.83%); and various locations below one percent (5.31%). Work is expected to be completed by March 31, 2025. No year non-appropriated funds in the amount of $20,941,008 will be obligated on this award and no funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was awarded as a sole source acquisition pursuant to 10 U.S. Code 2304(c)(4). Strategic Systems Programs, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Viasat Inc., Carlsbad, California, is awarded a $12,242,291 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide software maintenance and technical support for the Viasat LinkWay and Enhanced Broadband Efficient Modem waveforms and associated hardware platforms. This contract will provide support for the Very Small Aperture Terminal Small/Medium/Large, Master Reference Terminal, Hub Modem Package, and Marine Corps Wideband Satellite Communications family of systems. Work will be performed in Carlsbad, California, and is expected to be completed by March 2028. The maximum dollar value, including the base period and four additional ordering periods, is $12,242,291. No funds will be obligated at the time of award. Funds will be obligated on individual delivery orders as they are issued. Fiscal 2023 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $4,134,166; and fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $1,539,460 for a total of $5,673,626 will be obligated on the first delivery order immediately following contract award. This contract was a sole source acquisition pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1(a) and 10 U.S. Code § 3204(a)(1). The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-23-D-2031).

Vigor Marine LLC, Portland, Oregon, is awarded a $10,309,313 firm-fixed-price modification to previously awarded contract N4523A22C0552 for the procurement of 14 out of scope work specifications for repair, maintenance and modernization in support of the USS John Paul Jones 2C1 docking selected restricted availability. This is a sole source modification in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 3204(a)(1), only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements on the basis of industrial mobilization. Work will be performed in Seattle, Washington, and is expected to be completed by April 2024. Fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $10,309,313 will be obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility/Northwest Regional Maintenance Center, Everett, Washington, is the contracting activity.

Update:

Raytheon Co., Tucson, Arizona, was awarded a $12,140,030 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification to previously awarded contract N00024-18-C-5407 to exercise options and incrementally fund existing contract line items for Standard Missile (SM) depot and intermediate level repair and maintenance. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona, and is expected to be completed by February 2024. Fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $12,140,030 (100%) will be obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity. (Awarded March 31, 2023)

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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,