Fleet Forward News Watch Archives - Page 4 of 8 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

October 7, 2023October 7, 2023

Blue Angels Soar High in San Francisco, Symbolizing the Pinnacle of Navy Excellence

Dear members and friends,

The Blue Angels have been an emblem of American prowess in the skies since their inception in 1946. Watching their mesmerizing performances is not just an airshow; it’s a testament to the dedication, precision, and commitment to excellence embodied by our Navy. This past weekend, San Francisco witnessed the brilliance of the Blue Angels, and with it, a significant moment in Naval history.

Lt. Cmdr. Amanda Lee, a native of Mounds View, Minnesota, and a testament to the values we hold dear, soared across the skies of San Francisco. She is the first woman to be part of a Blue Angels team. Her journey – from playing soccer, ice hockey, and swimming in high school, to enlisting in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronics technician and subsequently becoming a pilot – speaks volumes about her determination and dedication.

The weekend also marked a homecoming for Lt. Cmdr. Scott Goossens, a San Francisco native. Scott’s trajectory from St. Ignatius College Prep to national security and defense policy, before he found his calling in the Navy, is an inspiration for every young American looking for purpose and direction.

As the founder of Americans for the Stronger Navy, I wish to convey the profound respect and admiration we hold for these skilled pilots and the entire Blue Angels team. Their achievements underline the very reasons we advocate for a robust Navy. Our Navy is not just about ships and weaponry; it’s about the people, their stories, and the values they uphold.

The beautiful weather, devoid of last year’s fog that had interrupted the show, was symbolic. It showed clarity, hope, and a bright future. I sincerely hope that the Americans for the Stronger Navy community could see what I see: a vibrant display of our Navy’s capabilities, reminding us of the importance of our advocacy efforts.

Cmdr. Alex Armatas, in his enthusiasm for the weekend’s show, encapsulated our sentiments perfectly: “I think a lot of people are [excited]. It looks like the weather is going to be friendly this weekend. Hopefully, the fog stays clear of the bay, and we can fly a good show.” He looks forward to representing the Navy and Marine Corps for the city of San Francisco, and we stand with him in that pride.

In closing, I want to reassure our members and subscribers that we are committed to bringing stories that matter. Our goal is to consistently remind you of the importance of a stronger Navy, not just through statistics and policy discussions but through real-life examples of courage, commitment, and excellence.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s continue to advocate for our Navy’s strength, for it’s not just about defense; it’s about our values, our people, and our nation’s pride.

Stay strong,
Bill Cullifer
Founder, Americans for the Stronger Navy.

October 3, 2023

The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’: A New Dimension of Naval Cooperation with Japan

The unmanned surface vessel Ranger transits the Pacific Ocean during Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Sep. 15, 2023. US Navy Photo

Japan Welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’: A Showcase of Unmanned Maritime Technology and Strategy

Why this matters
• The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ is in Japan to test and demonstrate its unmanned vessels. These ships can operate autonomously or remotely, with advanced sensors and weapons. They can also link with other Aegis vessels, creating a networked force multiplier. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy
• Japan welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’, a program that aims to integrate unmanned vessels into its fleet. These ships are equipped with the Aegis combat system and the SM-6 interceptor missiles. They can perform various missions, such as ISR, EW, MCM, and ASW. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy
• The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ arrives in Japan for testing and demonstration purposes. These unmanned vessels are designed to operate autonomously or remotely, with minimal human intervention. They are part of the US Navy’s efforts to maintain a strong presence and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. #GhostFleet #IndoPacific #USNavy

September 28, 2023October 2, 2023

Naval Coordination and Strategy

Introduction

To the esteemed members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

An impactful maritime exercise recently took place in the Gulf of Oman, marking a significant stride in naval coordination. Two A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, colloquially known as Warthogs, teamed up with the USS Stethem (DDG-63) in an integrated Air Operation in Maritime Surface Warfare.

Key Takeaways:

Enhanced Naval Coordination:
- The recent exercise showcased the two Warthogs from the Air Force’s 75th Fighter Squadron cooperating with USS Stethem.
- A live surface combat air patrol was conducted which involved joint fires against surface threats, emphasizing the potential of improving tactical proficiency.
The Versatility of Warthogs:
- Originally designed to confront Soviet tanks from the sky, the Warthogs boast a massive GAU-8 Avenger 30 mm cannon capable of firing at an extraordinary rate.
- While their primary function in recent times has been infantry close air support during conflicts like those in Iraq and Afghanistan, they’ve also demonstrated maritime capabilities.
Growing Importance of Joint Exercises:
- Such exercises have been a recurring theme. Earlier this year, the Air Force dispatched A-10s to the Middle East due to increasing Iranian disruptions to oil traffic. Moreover, joint Air Force-Navy operations have been frequent over the past year, reinforcing the importance of inter-service coordination.

Dale A. Jenkins, author of “Diplomats and Admirals” and Senior advisor to the Americans for a Stronger Navy, aptly articulates:
“The coordination between a U.S. Navy Destroyer and the Warthog Air Force attack plane is an example of specialized actions that should be taking place. They make the Navy stronger by participating in more active missions. The challenge for the Navy is to initiate such coordinated missions and thereby lead the effort, not wait to be invited. This is particularly important now when the Navy has only one of eleven of the unified combatant commands.” Jenkins further adds that had decisions gone differently regarding leadership roles, the Navy could have been at a more precarious position concerning the Indo-PAC command

Conclusion:

The recent joint exercise between the Warthogs and the USS Stethem serves as a testament to the potential and necessity of inter-service collaboration. In an era where naval strength and presence are paramount, these initiatives should be celebrated and further encouraged. As Jenkins emphasized, proactive leadership and coordination in such operations are vital for the Navy to retain its commanding position in the global arena.

This exercise marks the sixth iteration of the joint and combined AOMSW between U.S. Navy and Air Force this year. Previous exercises incorporated the Air Force Two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft operate alongside USS Bataan (LHD 5) & USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) in the Gulf of Oman, in August; An A-10 firing a 30mm practice rounds on a practice target on the surface of the water in July 10; A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, two United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, & three U.S. Coast Guard cutters with embarked U.S. Marine Corps joint terminal attack controllers, trained together in the Arabian Gulf, April 28; Guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) and an HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter conducted joint operations in the Gulf of Aden, April 2.

USS Stethem is are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region. The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.

September 16, 2023September 16, 2023

Balancing Naval Power: The Role and Relevance of Small Combat Ships in a Modern Navy

Small Ship, Big Impact? Reevaluating the Navy’s Approach to Vessel Size.
U.S. NAVY

Introduction:

To the esteemed members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

In our continued endeavor to promote an educated dialogue surrounding the strength and direction of our nation’s naval forces, we bring forward an opinion piece recently penned by Craig Hooper for Forbes.

The piece titled “U.S. Navy Turns Away From Small Warships Despite Growing Demand, Tactical Relevance” delves into the Navy’s decision to shift focus away from small combat-oriented ships, despite their apparent global demand and tactical significance.

This is a topic of paramount importance, as the balance between small and large naval vessels has implications for our tactical flexibility, regional engagements, and how we project power and diplomacy on the global stage.

Key Takeaways:

Departure from Small Ships:

Hooper discusses the U.S. Navy’s move away from managing small combatants, such as the Cyclone class coastal patrol ships. This responsibility has now been transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard, which is grappling with its own challenges.

Global Interest in Small Vessels:

There seems to be a discrepancy between the U.S. Navy’s stance and the rest of the world. Many allies have shown keen interest in the U.S. Navy’s Cyclone class ships. This interest juxtaposes the Navy’s lack of enthusiasm to invest in small craft.

Unprecedented Elimination:

The wholesale removal of small combat-oriented ships from the U.S. Navy is a historical shift. Currently, the Naval Vessel Register lists only ten battle force ships under 2400-tons.

Differing Perspectives:

While the U.S. Navy finds smaller vessels vulnerable against adversaries like China, other nations seem to be taking a different stance. The South China Sea, for instance, has seen small ship engagements, with countries like the Philippines commissioning former U.S. Navy’s Cyclone class ships.

The Robot Replacements:

There’s a hint of an inclination to look towards maritime robots. While valuable, Hooper believes that they can’t yet replace the human-led missions of crewed small ships.

The Coast Guard’s Role:

With the Navy shifting its focus, the Coast Guard has been compelled to pick up the slack, despite its distinct and diverse mission set.

Conclusion:

We are grateful to Dr. Craig Hooper for shedding light on this evolving aspect of our naval strategy. While his perspective provides valuable insights, it’s crucial to remember the foundational principle of the Americans for a Stronger Navy: the belief in a robust, versatile, and adequately equipped naval force.

Both small and large vessels have their unique tactical and strategic advantages. As we advocate for a stronger Navy, it’s essential to understand the role of every ship, large or small, in ensuring America’s maritime supremacy.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment. Let’s foster an informed conversation, ensuring the best future for our Navy.

September 1, 2023September 1, 2023

A New Navy Destroyer Is Already Flying a ‘Badass’ Pirate-Inspired Battle Flag

Shown arriving at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, on Aug. 7, 2023, the USS Carl M. Levin was named after a longtime senator from Michigan who championed veterans’ rights. (Lt. Autumn Estrada/U.S. Navy photo)

Hello, fellow Navy supporters and enthusiasts! Today, I want to share with you an amazing story about the newest Navy destroyer, the USS Carl M. Levin, and its unique and awesome battle flag. If you are a fan of pirates, sea monsters, and phoenixes, you will love this story!

Who is the USS Carl M. Levin?
The USS Carl M. Levin is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that was commissioned on June 26, 2023, in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the 76th destroyer of its class and the first Navy ship to be named after the late Senator Carl Levin, who served in Congress for 36 years and was a longtime champion of the military and defense affairs. He was also a strong advocate for veterans’ rights, fiscal responsibility, bipartisanship, and the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. He died in 2021 at age 87.

The USS Carl M. Levin arrived at its homeport of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, on August 7, 2023. It is assigned to the U.S. Pacific Fleet and will conduct missions in support of the U.S. national security interests and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy.

What is the battle flag of the USS Carl M. Levin?
The battle flag of the USS Carl M. Levin is a stunning and striking design that features a fearsome pirate ship, a legendary sea monster, and a mythical phoenix. It was designed by Damage Controlman 3rd Class Hector Mendoza, who was inspired by telling his nieces about his job in the Navy as a pirate. He said he wanted to design a “pretty badass battle flag to display for everyone to see”.

The pirate ship represents the heritage and history of sailing the seven seas as a Navy sailor. The kraken, a large and terrifying sea creature of yore, symbolizes the power and might of the Navy and its ability to destroy any enemy that threatens it. The phoenix, the ship’s mascot, rises out of the destruction, symbolizing how the crew will persevere through any hardships or challenges.

The battle flag also pays tribute to the ship’s namesake and his home state. In the lower left corner, there is an ivory gavel that marks Levin’s 36 years of service in Congress and his role as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. In the lower right corner, there is the Michigan flag that honors Levin’s home state and his connection to the Great Lakes region.

Why is the battle flag important?
The battle flag is important because it reflects the identity and spirit of the ship and its crew. It shows their pride, courage, resilience, and dedication to their mission and their nation. It also shows their respect and gratitude for their namesake and his legacy. It also adds some flair and fun to their arrival at port.

The battle flag is also part of a growing tradition in the Navy of flying unique and creative flags on newly commissioned warships. Some examples of other Navy warships’ battle flags are:

• The USS John S. McCain flies a flag that features a silhouette of its namesake senator giving a thumbs-up gesture and his motto “Country First”.

• The USS Michael Monsoor flies a flag that depicts a Medal of Honor ribbon and a trident, honoring its namesake Navy SEAL who sacrificed his life to save his teammates in Iraq.

• The USS Rafael Peralta flies a flag that shows a pair of crossed rifles and a helmet with a bullet hole, commemorating its namesake Marine who used his body to shield his comrades from a grenade in Iraq.

• The USS Paul Ignatius flies a flag that displays a pair of crossed swords and a pair of wings, symbolizing its namesake secretary of the Navy’s service as both an Army officer and an Air Force pilot.

What do you think?
I hope you enjoyed this story about the USS Carl M. Levin and its battle flag. I think it is a great example of how the Navy celebrates its history, culture, and heroes through its ships and flags. I also think it is a great way to show our support and appreciation for our Navy sailors who serve our country with honor and excellence.

What do you think? Do you like the design and meaning of the battle flag? Do you have any other favorite Navy warships’ battle flags? Do you have any suggestions or ideas for future battle flags? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you!

Thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Stay tuned for more updates and stories about our Navy and its amazing ships and sailors. Until next time, stay safe and stay Navy!

Source: [Military.com]

August 22, 2023August 22, 2023

The USS Ted Stevens: The Ship That Can Strike Anywhere in Minutes

Hello, members and subscribers of Stronger Navy! We are back with another exciting update on the latest developments in America’s naval power.

Today, we are going to talk about the USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128), a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that will be one of the most powerful and lethal warships in the world.

The ship was launched on August 15, 2023, and was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow and daughters.

The ship is named after the late Senator Ted Stevens, who served Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong supporter of the Navy and the Marine Corps. He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India.

He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke-class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare.

The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously.

The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.

The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.

The USS Ted Stevens will join the USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and its sister ships as part of America’s naval power projection in an era of great power competition.

The USS Zumwalt is a revolutionary ship that represents the future of naval warfare, with its stealth design, electric propulsion, and potential to carry hypersonic weapons.

The ship’s homeport shift from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi, is part of a plan to upgrade the ship with new technologies and systems, such as the CPS system. The USS Zumwalt and its sister ships will provide a significant boost to America’s naval power and deterrence.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the USS Ted Stevens and its significance for America’s naval power.

We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on this topic in the comments section below. Thank you for your support and stay tuned for more updates from Stronger Navy!

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke -class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare. The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously. The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.
The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.
The USS Ted Stevens is named after Ted Stevens, who was the longest serving Republican U.S. senator in history when he left office in 2009. He represented Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong advocate for the Navy and the Marine Corps.
He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India. He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The USS Ted Stevens was launched on August 15, 2023, at the Ingalls Shipbuilding division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Pascagoula, Mississippi. It was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow Catherine Ann Stevens and his daughters Susan Stevens Covich, Lily Irene Becker, and Karina Stevens.
The ship’s motto is “Lead with Courage”, which reflects Ted Stevens’ legacy of leadership and service. The ship’s crest features a grizzly bear, which symbolizes Alaska’s wildlife and Ted Stevens’ nickname “Uncle Ted”. It also features a gold star, which represents his military service and his Medal of Freedom. The ship’s hull number is DDG-128, which coincides with Ted Stevens’ birthday on November 28.

August 20, 2023August 20, 2023

Why the USS Zumwalt’s Homeport Shift Matters for America’s Naval Power

The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) is the lead ship of the Zumwalt class, the most advanced and lethal surface combatants in the world. The ship departed San Diego on August 1, 2021, and will shift its homeport from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi. This move is not just a routine relocation, but a strategic decision that will enhance the ship’s capabilities and readiness for future missions.

The Zumwalt Class: A Game-Changer for Naval Warfare

The Zumwalt class is a new generation of multi-mission destroyers designed to strengthen naval power from the sea. These ships feature a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, a wave-piercing tumblehome hull, a stealth design, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry available. The Zumwalt class can perform a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions, while allowing the Navy to evolve with new systems and threats.

Some of the unique features of the Zumwalt class include:
• A larger flight deck and hangar than any other surface combatant, capable of accommodating two MH-60R helicopters or three MQ-8 Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicles.
• A multifunction radar (MFR) that provides air and missile defense, surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense capabilities.
• A dual-band sonar that enables anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.
• A vertical launching system (VLS) that can hold up to 80 missiles of various types and sizes, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard missiles, Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles, and Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rockets.
• Two advanced gun systems (AGS) that can fire long-range precision projectiles at a rate of 10 rounds per minute.
• A reduced crew size of 142 sailors, thanks to automation and integration of ship systems.

The Conventional Prompt Strike: A New Weapon for a New Era

The USS Zumwalt will undergo a modernization period in Pascagoula, where it will receive technology upgrades including the integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapons system. CPS is a hypersonic boost-glide missile development and test program that provides longer range, shorter flight times, and high survivability against enemy defenses. CPS is a joint effort between the Navy and the Army, and will be deployed on both surface ships and submarines.

Hypersonic weapons are those that can travel at speeds above Mach 5 (or five times the speed of sound). They can maneuver unpredictably in flight, making them harder to detect and intercept by conventional air defense systems. They can also deliver conventional warheads with high accuracy and lethality, without relying on nuclear deterrence.
CPS will give the USS Zumwalt and other platforms a new capability to conduct prompt and precise strikes against high-value targets anywhere in the world within one hour. This will enhance the U.S. military’s ability to respond to emerging threats and crises, as well as deter potential adversaries from aggression.

The Future of Naval Power: Ready for What’s Ahead

The USS Zumwalt’s homeport shift is not only a logistical change, but also a sign of the Navy’s commitment to innovation and adaptation. The Zumwalt class and the CPS weapons system are examples of how the Navy is investing in cutting-edge technologies that will ensure its dominance in the maritime domain for decades to come.

As members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we applaud this decision and look forward to seeing the USS Zumwalt in action. We believe that a strong navy is not a want but a need for our nation’s security and prosperity. We also believe that our sailors deserve the best equipment and training to carry out their missions.

We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about our navy’s capabilities. If you want to learn more about the USS Zumwalt or other naval topics, please visit our website or follow us on social media.

Thank you for your attention and support.

August 1, 2023August 1, 2023

Night Flight Ops aboard USS Gerald R Ford

Hello, members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

We are excited to share with you a thrilling story of air operations at night on an aircraft carrier. This is not a fiction, but a reality that our brave and skilled naval aviators face every day.

Imagine landing a plane on a moving ship in the dark, with no lights, no runway, and no margin for error. Imagine doing it while the ship is pitching and rolling in rough seas, and the wind is blowing from all directions.

Imagine doing it with a plane that weighs over 30 tons, carries tons of fuel and weapons, and travels hundreds of miles per hour.
Imagine doing it with only a few seconds to react, and no second chances.

This is what our naval aviators do every night on an aircraft carrier. It is one of the most challenging and dangerous feats in aviation, requiring precision, courage, and razor-sharp instincts.

It is also one of the most vital capabilities of our Navy, enabling us to project power and protect our interests around the world.

In this story, we will take you behind the scenes of night carrier operations, and show you how our Navy pilots train, prepare, and execute these missions.

We will also show you how the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the newest and most advanced carrier in the world, supports these operations with its cutting-edge technology and systems.

The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford conducts flight operations in the Adriatic Sea, July 25, 2023.

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

We will tell you what it takes to launch and recover these planes in the dark, what are the risks and rewards of doing so, and what are the secrets of success for these elite pilots.

We will also share with you some facts and statistics about night carrier landings that will amaze you:

According to a YouTube video by NAVY Productions , night carrier landings are graded on a scale of 0 to 5 by the Landing Signal Officer (LSO), who guides the pilots with visual signals and radio calls. A perfect landing is a 5, a safe but average landing is a 3, and a bolter (a missed arrestment) is a 2.5.
According to Wikipedia , bolters occur when the plane’s tailhook fails to catch any of the four arresting wires on the carrier deck, forcing the pilot to abort the landing and go around for another attempt. Bolters can happen due to pilot error, equipment failure, or adverse weather conditions.
According to an article by Carey Lohrenz , a former Navy fighter pilot and author of Fearless Leadership: High-Performance Lessons from the Flight Deck , night carrier landings are so stressful that they can cause physiological effects such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, adrenaline, cortisol, and pupil dilation.
According to an article by Proceedings Magazine , published by the U.S. Naval Institute , night carrier landing accident rates have historically been about three times higher than day rates, due to reduced visibility, depth perception, and situational awareness.

We hope you enjoy this story as much as we enjoyed writing it for you. We hope it will inspire you to appreciate the incredible work that our Navy does every day, and to support our cause of making our Navy stronger and more capable.
Thank you for your attention and loyalty.
Americans for a Stronger Navy.

July 28, 2023July 28, 2023

USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124): Embodying American Strength and the Pursuit of Peace

101123-N-5292M-186 NORFOLK The newly commissioned guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Nov. 23, 2010. The ship is named for Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at eh age of 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released).

Dear members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

We are excited to share with you an event that highlights not just the steadfast progress of our naval forces, but also the values and heroism that permeate the proud history of our organization and our country.

On July 29th, the U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art guided-missile destroyer, at the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. This momentous event embodies the continued evolution and modernization of our naval capabilities, ensuring our country remains secure and well-protected against potential threats.

In the context of our mission at Americans for a Stronger Navy, events like this further amplify the significance of our work. Our commitment to ensuring a robust, well-equipped Navy is vindicated as we see the christening of such advanced warships. We believe that a stronger navy is vital for maintaining America’s position in the global arena, defending our interests, and securing our nation’s prosperity.

Why does this matter to America and the American people, you may ask? In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and unpredictable threats, a strong navy serves as a bulwark against such challenges. With the commissioning of USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), we honor not just a war hero, but also the values of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice that he symbolized. These are values that unite us as Americans and remind us of the cost of our security and freedom.

The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is more than a guided-missile destroyer – it represents the backbone of our surface fleet, prepared to ensure American safety at all times. It embodies our dedication to the defense of our country and our determination to promote peace.

This event serves as a proud reminder of our mission, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this historic occasion. Together, let’s continue working to strengthen our Navy, uphold our shared values, and safeguard the American dream for future generations.

Best Regards,
Bill, Americans for a Stronger Navy

July 27, 2023July 27, 2023

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