Author: Robert Luster

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A Historic Meeting for a Stronger Navy

PSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III greets Papua New Guinean Minister for Defense Win Daki in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, July 27, 2023.

a also faces many challenges, such as poverty, corruption, health crises, environmental degradation, and illegal fishing. Moreover, it is located in a region where China is expanding its influence and presence, posing threats to the sovereignty and security of our allies and partners.

That is why the United States has been working closely with Papua New Guinea to support its development and defense needs. The United States has already provided personal protective equipment to the country to help it combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement

The meeting between Secretary Austin and Papua New Guinea’s defense leaders resulted in two major outcomes that will benefit both countries and our navy.

First, the two countries concluded a shiprider agreement in May. This agreement will allow Papua New Guinea’s forces to ride along with U.S. Coast Guard vessels patrolling the area. This collaboration will help the country enforce its sovereignty and combat illegal fishing activities, ensuring the protection of its marine resources.

Second, the two countries negotiated and signed a landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement that will deepen U.S.-PNG ties. The Defense Cooperation Agreement is currently awaiting approval from Papua New Guinea’s parliament.

This agreement seeks to deepen the defense ties between the two nations and enable the United States to support the modernization of Papua New Guinea’s defense force. It will foster closer collaboration on exercises, training, interoperability, and defense-capacity building.

Furthermore, the agreement presents opportunities for joint infrastructure investment and expanded U.S. defense presence in Papua New Guinea, beyond small-scale projects. By working together, the two countries aim to promote a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where international law is upheld, and disputes are resolved peacefully and without coercion.

A Step Towards a Stronger Navy

We applaud Secretary Austin for his leadership and vision in forging this historic partnership with Papua New Guinea. We believe that this partnership will enhance our security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, which is vital for our national interests and global stability.

We also believe that this partnership will strengthen our navy by providing more opportunities for training, interoperability, and presence in a strategic area. A stronger navy means a stronger America.

We hope that you share our enthusiasm and support for this historic meeting and its outcomes. We encourage you to learn more about this meeting by reading this article from the Department of Defense.

We also invite you to join us in our efforts to advocate for a stronger navy by becoming a member or making a donation to our organization. You can visit our website at www.americansforastrongernavy.org to find out more about our work and how you can get involved.

Thank you for your attention and support.
Sincerely,
The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

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Beyond the Horizon: Roy Englert’s Journey from the Navy to the Running Track

Meet Roy Englert – A Living Legend

Roy Englert at 100


Today, we want to share the extraordinary tale of Mr. Roy Englert, a centenarian World War II Navy veteran, and his unstoppable spirit. Not only did he serve our country with valor, but he also continued to break records as a competitive runner well into his 90s, embodying the very essence of resilience and strength.

Early Life and Naval Service
Englert’s journey started in Nashville during the Great Depression.

He joined the Naval Reserve during his junior year at Vanderbilt University and entered the war effort after graduation in 1943. He participated in significant operations like the D-Day invasion of Normandy, where he served as a supply officer on a landing ship, and Operation Dragoon in the south of France. His service didn’t stop there. He also took part in the Battle of Okinawa, narrowly escaping a kamikaze attack, and was preparing for the invasion of mainland Japan when the war ended.

Post-War Life and Civilian Career
Returning to the U.S., Englert attended law school and then had a fulfilling 22-year career with the Department of the Treasury in Washington, D.C. Later, he moved to a private law firm and business consulting before retiring at age 73.

Unstoppable Spirit – The Runner
After reading a book about the benefits of exercise, Englert began running at age 60. Despite initial challenges, he persisted, gradually transitioning from his basement to high school tracks and eventually to competitive meets. His achievements are staggering: from setting world records in relay races with a team of 90-year-olds in 2014 to breaking a world record for the 95-99 age group in the 800-meter race in 2018, Englert never ceased to amaze.

The Power of Perseverance
Despite his mother’s concerns about him being “too old” to run, Englert proved that age is just a number. He inspires others not to make age an excuse to stop living life to the fullest. His mantra is quite simple: “Keep moving, keep moving, keep moving.”

Conclusion and Takeaway
Roy Englert’s life serves as an enduring testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and a positive attitude. He is an example not only to veterans and service members but to everyone. The takeaway message here is never to let age or circumstances define what you’re capable of.

Remember, every stride we take towards our goals, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. So let’s keep moving, just like Roy Englert.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this incredible story, and we wish you a fantastic summer ahead. Stay strong, stay motivated, and above all, stay moving!

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U.S. Navy to Commission Littoral Combat Ship Canberra in Australia

USS Canberra (LCS 30)

The U.S. Navy will commission its newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship (LCS), the future USS Canberra (LCS 30), during an international commissioning ceremony, at 10:00 a.m. AEST on Saturday, July 22 (8:00 p.m. EDT on Friday, July 21) at the Royal Australian Navy Fleet Base East in Sydney, Australia.

The Honorable Carlos del Toro U.S. Secretary of the Navy, will deliver the commissioning ceremony’s principal address. Remarks will also be provided by His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley, AD, DSC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia; the Honourable Richard Marles, MP, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia; the Honorable Caroline Kennedy, U.S. Ambassador to Australia; Adm. Michael Gilday, U.S. Chief of Naval Operations; Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, Royal Australian Chief of Navy; and Mr. Larry Ryder, Vice President of Business Development and External Affairs, Austal USA. The ship’s sponsor is Australian Senator, the Honourable Marise Payne, the former Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs who attended the ship’s keel laying ceremony at Austal USA’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, in 2020.

Independence-variant LCS are fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored, surface combatants that operate both close to shore and in open-ocean environments. LCS integrate with joint, combined, crewed, and unmanned systems to support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe. The USS Canberra’s sister ships, USS Jackson (LCS 6), USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), USS Manchester (LCS 14), and USS Mobile (LCS 26) are all currently on deployment in the Indo-Pacific.

LCS 30 will be the 16th commissioned Independence-variant LCS. It is the second ship named in honor of the city of Canberra, and commemorates the more than 100 years of mateship between the U.S. and Australian allies. The first USS Canberra (CA 70) was named in remembrance of the Australian heavy cruiser HMAS Canberra that sank during the Battle of Savo Island while fighting side-by-side with U.S. naval forces. CA 70 was the first U.S. Navy ship named for a foreign capital.

The first USS Canberra (CA 70) received seven battle stars for her service in World War II. In May 1958, Canberra served as the ceremonial flagship for the selection of the Unknown Serviceman of World War II and Korea. Canberra was decommissioned in a ceremony on Feb. 2, 1970, at the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard. One of her propellers is preserved at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, while the ship’s bell is on display at the Australian National Maritime Museum.

NameCanberra
NamesakeHMAS Canberra
Awarded6 October 2017[2]
BuilderAustal USA[2]
Laid down10 March 2020
Launched30 March 2021
Sponsored byMarise Payne[2]
Christened5 June 2021[4]
Acquired21 December 2021[1]
HomeportSan Diego
IdentificationHull number: LCS-30
MottoCan Do! [3]
StatusPre-Commissioning
Badge
General characteristics
Class and typeIndependence-class littoral combat ship
Displacement2,307 metric tons light, 3,104 metric tons full, 797 metric tons deadweight
Length127.4 m (418 ft)
Beam31.6 m (104 ft)
Draft14 ft (4.27 m)
Propulsion2× gas turbines, 2× diesel, 4× waterjets, retractable Azimuth thruster, 4× diesel generators
Speed40 knots (74 km/h; 46 mph)+, 47 knots (54 mph; 87 km/h) sprint
Range4,300 nautical miles (8,000 km; 4,900 mi) at 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph)+
Capacity210 tonnes
Complement40 core crew (8 officers, 32 enlisted) plus up to 35 mission crew
Sensors and
processing systems		Sea Giraffe 3D Surface/Air RADARBridgemaster-E Navigational RADARAN/KAX-2 EO/IR sensor for GFC
Electronic warfare
& decoys		EDO ES-3601 ESM4× SRBOC rapid bloom chaff launchers
ArmamentBAE Systems Mk 110 57 mm gun4× .50 cal (12.7 mm) guns (2 aft, 2 forward)Evolved SeaRAM 11 cell missile launcherMission modules
Aircraft carried2× MH-60R/S SeahawksMQ-8 Fire Scout


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USS Mason: A Ready and Reliable Ship

USS Mason (DDG 87) and USNS Supply (T-AOE 6)

Hello and welcome back to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we keep you updated on the latest news and stories about the US Navy and its vital role in protecting our nation and advancing our interests around the world. Today, we are happy to share with you some exciting photos and information about the USS Mason (DDG 87),

The USS Mason (DDG 87) is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the United States Navy. She is currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean participating in the Carrier Strike Group Four Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is an intense, multi-week exercise designed to fully integrate a carrier strike group as a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force and to test their ability to carry out sustained combat operations from the sea.

Recently, the USS Mason participated in a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command’s fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6). During this operation, the USS Mason received fuel, food, ammunition, and other supplies from the USNS Supply. The replenishment-at-sea also tested the coordination and communication skills of both ships’ crews.

The USS Mason is a ready and reliable ship that can perform a variety of missions, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense. She is equipped with a powerful AEGIS combat system that integrates advanced sensors, weapons, and command and control capabilities. She has a crew of 380 officers and enlisted personnel and can carry two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.

The USS Mason is named in honor of the non-segregated crew serving on board USS Mason (DE-529), the first ship in the US Navy with this distinction of a predominantly black crew. She is the 37th destroyer of her class and the 21st ship of this class to be built at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. She was commissioned in April 2003 and is currently homeported in Mayport, Florida.

The USS Mason represents the legacy of her namesake and the dedication of her crew. She is ready to defend our nation and our allies with honor, courage, and commitment.

The USS Mason is not only a powerful ship, but also a decorated one. She has earned several awards and honors for her outstanding performance and achievements in various missions and exercises. Some of her notable awards include:
• The Combat Action Ribbon, for engaging and defending against missile attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen in October 2016.
• The Navy Unit Commendation, for conducting strike operations against Libyan air defense systems and military targets, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions for Libyan civilians, in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn /Operation Unified Protector in 2011.
• The Navy E Ribbon, for achieving excellence in battle efficiency and readiness in 2004, 2005, and 2016.
• The Battenberg Cup, for being the best all-around ship or submarine in the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet based on crew achievements in 2016. Mason was only the fifth destroyer in the last 111 years to receive this prestigious award.
• The Bloodhound Award, for meritorious anti-submarine warfare preparation and prowess in 2020. Mason demonstrated exceptional ASW capabilities during multiple exercises and operations, including tracking a Russian submarine that was operating near the US coast.
The USS Mason is a ship that has made history and continues to make a difference. She is a testament to the courage, skill, and dedication of her crew, past and present, who proudly serve on board this remarkable vessel. She is also a tribute to the legacy of her namesake crew, who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of African American sailors.

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Safeguarding Maritime Security: U.S. Navy Defends International Waters Against Iranian Aggression

USS McFaul, a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer,
safeguarding merchant vessels and upholding the principle of freedom of navigation.

Introduction:
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, the role of a robust and resilient navy is pivotal in preserving peace, enforcing international laws, and maintaining security across the world’s oceans. Recent events in the Gulf of Oman underline the pivotal role that the U.S. Navy plays in defending commercial interests and ensuring safe passage for all nations. This incident is a shining example of the critical work done by the brave men and women of the United States Navy, underpinning the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization.

Summary:
In two separate incidents on July 5th, U.S. forces successfully prevented attempts by the Iranian Navy to seize commercial tankers in international waters near Oman. Both attempts were thwarted by the prompt intervention of the USS McFaul, a U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer, safeguarding merchant vessels and upholding the principle of freedom of navigation. This article delves into these incidents, illustrating the need for a powerful Navy to protect global commerce and maritime security. I I 9(.

Key Takeaways:
Through prompt and decisive action, the U.S. Navy successfully defended two commercial tankers from hostile attempts at seizure. These incidents underscore the urgent need for an alert and robust naval presence to ensure the safety and free navigation of commercial vessels in international waters.

Defense of International Waters: U.S. forces successfully prevented two attempted commercial tanker seizures by the Iranian Navy in international waters, highlighting the vital role that a strong navy plays in defending maritime interests.

Vigilance and Rapid Response: The U.S. Navy’s swift response demonstrates the importance of a vigilant and agile naval force ready to respond at a moment’s notice to maintain maritime security.

The Role of Partnerships: The increased rotation of ships and aircraft patrolling the Strait of Hormuz alongside partner nations underscores the power of international cooperation in securing global waters.

Conclusion:
As we reflect on these recent incidents, let us remember the importance of a strong and responsive Navy. Not only does it protect our economic interests, but it also serves as a beacon of security in turbulent waters. As part of the Navy community, we couldn’t be prouder of the exceptional effort by the McFaul crew and the entire U.S. Naval Forces Central Command team. Let these events serve as a reminder to all of the vital work the Navy performs daily, and inspire us to continue supporting their mission.

As we move forward, let us bolster our commitment to ensure a stronger Navy – not just for America but for the safety and security of international waters that connect us all. Together, we can help maintain a global order that respects international law, protects economic prosperity, and enforces the freedom of the seas.

Whether you’re a member of the Navy, a related civilian, or an average American – your support is crucial in shaping a stronger future for our Navy, our nation, and our world. Subscribe to Americans for a Stronger Navy, and join us as we rally to secure our seas.

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This Day in U.S. Navy History – July 4, 2023

July 4th in Naval History

1776 – The Second Continental Congress unanimously adopts the Declaration of Independence, which announces the colonies’ separation from Great Britain.
On This day

1776
The Second Continental Congress unanimously adopts the Declaration of Independence, which announces the colonies’ separation from Great Britain.

1801
President Thomas Jefferson holds the first Presidential Review of U.S. Marine Band and Marines at the White House, Washington, District of Columbia.

1863
During the Civil War, the Confederates surrender Vicksburg, Miss., following a lengthy bombardment and siege by Union naval and land forces. The surrender gives the Union control of the Mississippi River. President Abraham Lincoln writes, ”The Father of Waters again goes unvexed to the sea.”

1944
USS David W. Taylor (DD 551) and USS Riddle (DE 185) sink Japanese submarine (I 10) while attempting an evacuation mission to Saipan, 100 miles east-northeast of her destination.

1991
USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) is commissioned at the waterfront of downtown Norfolk, Va. The guided-missile destroyer is the lead ship of her class and named for the former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Arleigh Burke, who attends the ships commissioning ceremony.

1992
USS George Washington (CVN 73) is commissioned at Norfolk, Va. The ships sponsor is First Lady Barbara Bush. The sixth carrier in the Nimitz-class of supercarriers, it is the fourth warship to be named after the first president of the United States.

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Naval News Weekly – July 4, 2023

A blog that brings you the latest and most positive news about the US navy and its activities around the world.

We are Americans for a Stronger Navy, an organization that supports and advocates for a robust and capable naval force that can protect our nation’s interests and values.

We believe that the US navy is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the global maritime domain, and we want to share with you the stories that showcase its achievements and innovations.

Naval News

In this section, we will highlight some of the recent events and operations that the US navy has participated in or conducted, and explain why they are important and relevant for our national security and global leadership.

  • USS Nimitz concludes seven-month-long deployment to Indo-Pacific: The carrier and its strike group headed to the U.S. 3rd and 7th Fleet area of operations in December. They conducted operations with allies and partners, such as Australia, India, Japan, France, and the United Kingdom, to enhance maritime security and stability in the region. They also supported Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Octave Quartz, and participated in exercises such as Malabar 2020 and La Perouse 2021. This deployment demonstrates the US navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence and readiness in the Indo-Pacific, which is vital for deterring aggression, ensuring freedom of navigation, and advancing our strategic interests. You can read more about this deployment here.
  • USS Wasp Arrives in The Bahamas to Celebrate Nation’s 50th Year of Independence: On June 28, amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) arrived in Nassau, The Bahamas for a port visit aimed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of U.S. – The Bahamas relations and the 50th anniversary of Bahamian independence. The visit also showcased the strong partnership and friendship between the two countries, as well as the US navy’s commitment to regional security and cooperation. The USS Wasp is part of the USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group, which provides a versatile sea-based expeditionary force that can respond to a range of missions, from humanitarian assistance to crisis response. You can read more about this port visit here.
  • USS Ronald Reagan Arrives in Da Nang for Port Visit: The U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) arrived in Da Nang, Vietnam, for a scheduled port call June 25, marking the third time a U.S. aircraft carrier has visited the country since 2018. The port visit demonstrated the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Vietnam, as well as the U.S. Navy’s support for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The USS Ronald Reagan is part of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, which operates in support of a rules-based international order that promotes peace, stability, and prosperity. You can read more about this port visit here.

The key takeaways from these news stories are:

  • The US navy is actively engaged in strengthening its alliances and partnerships with like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific region, which is critical for addressing common challenges and opportunities.
  • The US navy is capable of projecting power and presence across multiple domains and regions, which is essential for deterring potential adversaries and defending our national interests.
  • The US navy is respectful of the sovereignty and culture of other nations, which is important for building trust and goodwill among our friends and partners.

Naval Technology

In this section, we will showcase some of the latest developments and innovations in naval technology that enhance the performance and capabilities of the US navy and its platforms.

  • Navy Establishes Cyber Warfare Technician Rating: The Navy announced today the establishment of the Cyber Warfare Technician (CWT) rating via Naval Administrative Message (NAVADMIN) 147/23. The new rating will provide a dedicated career path for Sailors who specialize in cyber warfare operations, cyber defense analysis, digital forensics, cyber tool development, and cyber planning. The CWT rating will enhance the Navy’s cyber capabilities and readiness by creating a highly skilled workforce that can operate in the cyber domain. You can read more about this new rating here.
  • Navy Accepts Delivery of Future USS Jack H. Lucas: The Navy accepted delivery of the future guided missile destroyer USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), the Navy’s first Flight III destroyer from Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division on June 27. The Flight III configuration adds the SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which provides improved sensitivity, range, and accuracy, as well as increased ballistic missile defense capability. The USS Jack H. Lucas is named after Marine Corps Capt. Jack H. Lucas, who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. You can read more about this delivery here.
  • Keel Authenticated for the Future USNS Point Loma: The keel for the future USNS Point Loma, Expeditionary Fast Transport Ship (EPF 15), the second of the Spearhead-class EPF Flight II configuration, was laid at Austal USA, June 27. The EPF is a high-speed, shallow-draft catamaran that can transport personnel and cargo in support of a variety of missions, such as humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, theater security cooperation, and special operations. The EPF Flight II configuration adds a flight deck and additional medical capabilities to the original design. The USNS Point Loma is named after a neighborhood in San Diego, California, which is home to several naval facilities. You can read more about this keel laying here.

The key takeaways from these news stories are:

  • The US navy is constantly adapting and evolving its technology and workforce to meet the emerging and dynamic threats in the cyber domain, which is crucial for maintaining information superiority and operational security.
  • The US navy is acquiring and delivering new and advanced platforms that enhance its air and missile defense capabilities, which is vital for protecting our forces and allies from various aerial threats.
  • The US navy is expanding and modernizing its expeditionary transport capabilities, which is important for providing rapid and flexible support to various missions across the globe.

Naval Personnel

In this section, we will recognize some of the achievements and accomplishments of the US navy personnel who serve with honor and excellence.

  • Physiological issues in flight are going down, but still persist: Five years after a spike in reports of dangerous mental and physical effects in flight, military aviators are breathing easier. But problems persist. A Navy Times investigation found that physiological episodes — or PEs — have decreased significantly since 2017, when they reached a peak of 125 incidents in Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. In 2020, there were only 34 PEs reported, a 73 percent drop. The improvement is attributed to several factors, such as better training, maintenance, equipment, and research. However, some aviators still experience PEs, which can cause symptoms such as hypoxia, decompression sickness, vertigo, and spatial disorientation. The Navy continues to work on finding solutions and mitigating risks for its pilots and aircrew. You can read more about this issue here.
  • NRL Scientists Use Pulsar Timing to Measure Gravitational Waves from the Distant Universe: The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory’s Space Science Division along with a team of international scientists discovered groundbreaking evidence for gravitational waves that stretch and squeeze spacetime. The gravitational wave signal was observed in pulsar observations taken over 13 years by the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves (NANOBing, 11:07 PM
    Grav) collaboration using radio telescopes across North America. Gravitational waves are ripples in spacetime caused by massive objects accelerating or colliding with each other. The signal detected by NANOGrav is likely caused by supermassive black hole binaries orbiting each other in distant galaxies. This discovery opens a new window to explore the universe and test fundamental physics theories. You can read more about this discovery here.
  • Navy Entomologist Augments Warfighter Research Across INDOPACOM: Lt. Thomas McGlynn, a medical entomologist with the Navy Entomology Center of Excellence (NECE), Jacksonville Florida, recently provided “entomological” support to the Navy Medical Research Unit TWO (NAMRU-2), Singapore, carrying out mission critical research and surveillance activities across the Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) area of responsibility. McGlynn assisted NAMRU-2 in conducting vector-borne disease surveillance, outbreak response, and capacity building in several countries, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand. His work contributed to enhancing the health and readiness of U.S. and partner forces, as well as strengthening the regional partnerships and collaborations. You can read more about his work here.

The key takeaways from these news stories are:

  • The US navy is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its personnel, especially those who face challenging and demanding conditions in flight, which is essential for maintaining operational excellence and effectiveness.
  • The US navy is involved in cutting-edge scientific research and discovery, especially those that expand our knowledge and understanding of the universe and its phenomena, which is important for advancing our technological and intellectual edge.
  • The US navy is providing valuable expertise and assistance to its counterparts and partners in the Indo-Pacific region, especially those that improve the health and security of the populations and environments, which is crucial for fostering trust and cooperation.

Thank you for reading Naval News Weekly. We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about the US navy and its achievements and innovations. Please stay tuned for more positive news about the US navy in the future.