Criteria The ribbon is awarded to non-career Recruiting Force and Non-Naval Reserve Canvasser Recruiter personnel upon completion of a successful tour of duty in recruiting at the recommendation of their comma... The ribbon is awarded to non-career Recruiting Force and Non-Naval Reserve Canvasser Recruiter personnel upon completion of a successful tour of duty in recruiting at the recommendation of their commanding officer or officer in charge. Career Recruiting Force personnel, Campus Liaison Officers, and Recruiting District Assistance Council members are eligible for the ribbon upon each completion of three consecutive years of recruiting duty. MoreHide
Criteria The ribbon is awarded to non-career Recruiting Force and Non-Naval Reserve Canvasser Recruiter personnel upon completion of a successful tour of duty in recruiting at the recommendation of their comma... The ribbon is awarded to non-career Recruiting Force and Non-Naval Reserve Canvasser Recruiter personnel upon completion of a successful tour of duty in recruiting at the recommendation of their commanding officer or officer in charge. Career Recruiting Force personnel, Campus Liaison Officers, and Recruiting District Assistance Council members are eligible for the ribbon upon each completion of three consecutive years of recruiting duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Best Moment
Selection as SSOY 2006, earning my 3rd warfare pin (ESWS) FY-08 Chief Select
USS Boxer Announces Sailors of the Year By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Joshua Valcarcel, USS Boxer Public Affairs
USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Boxer?s (LHD 4) Commanding Officer, Capt. Bruce W. Nichols, honored the ship?s Junior Sailor, Sailor and Senior Sailor of the Year (SOY) for 2006 during an all hands call Jan. 22.
Personnelman 3rd Class (SW/AW) Maria Arteaga; Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW/AW/SS) Michael H. Kelley; and Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW/SS) Steven H. Vanderwerff were recognized for outstanding performance and demonstrated leadership while serving in the command the past year.
?The Navy core values mean a lot to me. They are the foundation of my work ethic personally and professionally,? said Vanderwerff, the Senior SOY. ?It?s nice to be recognized, because being a Boxer Sailor means a lot to me.?
During the all hands call, Nichols awarded each a Navy Achievement Medal and presented them with a ?Sailor of the Year? plaque.
?I want to make a difference in the command by setting a good example,? said Kelly, the command?s SOY. ?It?s great to be recognized in front of all my shipmates.?
The three Sailors demonstrated exceptional qualities among their peers and performed above and beyond what is expected of them.
?I share my success with my leadership for trusting me to get the job done even when it exceeded my pay grade,? said Vanderwerff. ?And at the same time I could not have accomplished this without the support of my shipmates.?
Throughout the year, Boxer?s leadership provided guidance and mentorship, helping pave the way for them to accomplish their level of success, said Arteaga.
?I received nothing but encouragement and support from my leadership,? said Arteaga, the Junior SOY. ?By challenging myself I was able to attain and exceed my goals.?
Boxer?s 2006 Sailors of the Year plan on continuing to motivate and set an example for their shipmates.
?I?m going to make sure I uphold the honor of being Boxer?s Sailor of the Year by continuing to set the example,? added Kelley. ?I?m a reflection of what it means to be a Boxer Sailor.?
Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) which is currently conducting maritime security operations in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander U.S. 5th Fleet?s area of responsibility encompasses about 7.5 million square miles and includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprised of 27 countries, includes three critical chokepoints at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.
Other Memories
Boxer ESG Sailors Build Homes, International Release Date: 11/13/2006 By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class S. H. Vanderwerff, USS Boxer Public Affairs MUMBAI, India (NNS) -- More than 100 Sailors from USS Boxer (LHD 4) Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) traveled to Patan village in Lonavala, India, to lend a hand with Habitat for Humanity?s Jimmy Carter Work Project (JCWP) India 2006 during their port visit here Nov. 1-2.
When the Sailors arrived, they joined more than 2,000 volunteers from around the world to take part in the annual event led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn. The goal was to build 100 homes in one week with low-income families from the area.
?I didn?t expect such a large project when I signed up,? said Boxer Interior Communications 1st Class (SW/AW) Dwayne Solomon. ?I thought we?d be working on a house. Instead we?re building a community.?
When he spoke to the press earlier that week, Carter spoke about the need for affordable housing.
?We?ve realized that people across the globe have the same basic needs, dreams and aspirations,? he said. ?Habitat?s program depends on finding families who cannot otherwise afford housing.?
The Sailors were divided among the 100 homes, working side-by-side with people from around the globe and the soon-to-be homeowners, painting, laying bricks and mixing cement.
?This is by far the largest community service project I?ve ever been involved with. It?s amazing,? said Cryptologic Technician Seaman Vanessa Malgra, of USS Benfold (DDG 65). ?I?ve helped out in Mexico, Australia and Singapore and always try to give back to the countries I visit.?
Sailors who volunteered also met with more than 40 members of the local media to answer questions and tell them why they were lending a hand.
?At first I was a little overwhelmed,? said Boxer?s Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Raul Huerta. ?I wasn?t sure what to say, but their interest to know why we were in India helped make it easy to answer their questions. I told them that during our visit to Mumbai, we wanted to do more than sightsee and shop; we also wanted to help out in the community.?
Throughout the day, the public announcing system played a variety of music, a bazaar sold Indian souvenirs, local performers filled the air with the beat of their drums, and a dining facility the size of a small aircraft hangar bay served Indian food.
The event was particularly special for the Sailors when they met and had their photo taken with the 39th president, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate who served as a naval officer for seven years.
?It was great. We got to meet Jimmy Carter and had a group photo taken with him,? said Boxer?s Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) Steve Johnson.
During their visit, Sailors said they were aware that they were doing more than building homes and helping those in need; they were building relations with the people of India.
During previous visits to India, the U.S. Navy has donated medical supplies, sewing machines and books to The Trust of Nanu Nagle School for the Poor and has helped refurbish Bal Bhavan Children's Center's auditorium in Goa.
?I?m helping build a house with several women from Cambodia, Korea, India and Hong Kong,? said Boxer?s Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Maribel Challburg. ?It makes me very proud to work side-by-side with these women.?
The U.S. Navy has a longstanding commitment to assisting friends and allies with community service projects. During its port visit to Singapore, Oct. 12-16,, BOXESG helped a career skills training center with gardening, yard work, and supported a beach clean-up. The Navy?s participation continues the U.S.?s involvement in Habitat for Humanity?s work in the region.
?Habitat for Humanity volunteers are following the Carters? example of neighbors helping neighbors,? said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. ?Every person who is part of this project will be enriched this week by working with Habitat partner families who are helping to improve their lives and the lives of others in the community.?
The BOXESG is currently conducting routine operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility.
Boxer is the flagship for the BOXESG, which is further comprised of Amphibious Squadron 5, the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, USS Dubuque (LPD 8), USS Comstock (LSD 45), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), Benfold, USS Howard (DDG 83), USCG Midgett (WHEC 726), and the Canadian frigate HMCS Ottawa. The BOXESG operates out of San Diego and reports operationally to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/ Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious task force
Boxer Returns from Surge Deployment Release Date: 9/16/2005 11:46:00 AM By Photographer?s Mate 1st Class Steven Vanderwerff, USS Boxer Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Boxer (LHD 4) (the "Golden Gator") returned from its third deployment in three years Sept. 14 to the sound of cheers from family and friends.
The four-and-one-half-month deployment demonstrated the feasibility of the Navy?s Fleet Response Plan (FRP), which ensures ships are able to respond to real-world situations by maintaining high states of readiness during their surge windows.
While Boxer?s two previous deployments were in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the role of Sailors aboard the Golden Gator during this deployment was to build interoperability between the United States and key allies in the global war on terrorism.
?This deployment was a clear demonstration of the multimission capabilities that the L-Class big-brings to fleet commanders,? said Capt. T.J. Culora, Boxer?s commanding officer. ?We were able to safely complete diverse tasks, including a joint amphibious landing, cooperation and formation tactics with several foreign navies and a rewarding humanitarian engagement mission in the Marshall Islands. All in all, I would say that this is a pretty good four-and-one-half-months' work. I am proud of the service and skill of the crew ? they have performed magnificently.?
Boxer?s first mission, participation in exercise Talisman Saber ?05, took place June 11-27 on Australia?s famed Shoalwater Bay. Talisman Saber, a combination of what was once exercises Tandem Thrust, Kingfisher and Crocodile, was jointly sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command and Australian Defense Force Joint Operations Command.
The exercise served as a key training venue for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, as a scenario involving assembling a combined task force with short notice, power projection and forcible entry.
?Talisman Saber was a key exercise in the Pacific Fleet area of responsibility and a demonstration of support and solidarity between two nations committed to democracy, liberty and human rights,? said Culora. ?It is a tangible expression of mutual respect and pledge of assistance.?
The exercise involved more than 17,000 U.S. and Australian service members. Working hand-in-hand, they performed more than 25 landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) trips and more than 1,300 Australian S-70A Blackhawk and U.S. MH-60S Nighthawk landings and takeoffs.
After completing exercises with Australia, Boxer journeyed to Kemaman, Malaysia, where the ship participated in the third phase of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT).
Boxer served as the flagship for CARAT, Phase III operations, during which Malaysian and U.S. forces built cooperative military proficiencies July 12-18 with more than 150 Malaysian service members embarked.
The focus of the exercise was operational planning, command and control, tactics, logistics support and maritime law.
?CARAT is not only important to the Navy, but to the nation,? said Boxer?s Executive Officer Cmdr. Adrian J. Jansen. ?Whether training to combat terrorism, provide mutual defense or humanitarian assistance relief, building a working relationship with the CARAT nations is important. CARAT helps to build a solid working relationship for any situation.?
The exercise was deemed a testament to the strength of the ties and teamwork that the U.S. and Malaysia have shared for decades. The ease with which the two nations came together directly reflected the spirit of their longstanding cooperative relationship. The exercise also strengthened professional skills of those involved at every level, from the flight deck to the engineering spaces.
Performing at peak performance with two successful exercises under its belt, the Golden Gator prepared for the third annual Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX), where forces of nature also provided real-world challenges as Typhoon Matsa moved through the operating area.
Units moved more than 600 miles to stay one step ahead of the storm before returning to the operation area. Despite Matsa, Joint Air and Sea Exercise commenced aboard Boxer Aug. 7 in the vicinity of Okinawa with an armed flight deck of AV-8B Harrier IIs and a team of 87 Marines from the 1st Marine Air Wing.
?JASEX is one of those great opportunities where we can work with our nation?s other forces,? said Cmdr. Mark F. Volpe, Boxer?s operations officer. ?Working as a joint task force is a great venue for learning from each other and integrating.?
During the seven?day exercise, Boxer, along with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Strike Group, the U.S. Air Force?s 18th Wing, 5th Air Force and 1st Marine Air Wing, conducted joint training combining carrier and amphibious operations. After more than 60 mishap-free flight hours, Boxer wrapped up JASEX Aug. 13.
Boxer capped off its deployment as the summer quickly came to an end by conducting a community outreach program on the island of Majuro, the capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Volunteers from among the more than 1,200 Sailors and Marines embarked aboard the ship provided critical assistance to the island nation.
Boxer?s medical staff, with the help of Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5, sponsored a community health fair and provided medical treatment to Majuro?s young and elderly. They also held cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, basic first aid and first-responder training for police, firefighters, emergency medical service workers, U.S. Embassy personnel and teachers from the World Peace Organization.
Teams of Boxer Sailors also went to local schools to read to the students and brighten their day with treats, coloring books and games. Other Sailors volunteered to help the community by restoring electricity and refurbishing a few public areas.
?This experience provided a unique opportunity for all involved,? said Lt. Johan Baik, one of Boxer?s two chaplains. ?Our Sailors and Marines made a huge impact on the island and the community. This is one of the events that stay in a person?s heart forever.?
To cap off its deployment, Boxer held a "Tiger Cruise" for more than 150 family members and friends Sept. 7-14 while making its return transit from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, back to the ship?s homeport of San Diego.
The Tiger Cruise gave family and friends the opportunity to experience life as a Sailor at sea.
?I love the fact that my family finally gets to experience my life firsthand and learn what my job is all about,? said Boatswain?s Mate 2nd Class Karina E. Perez-Prado, of Las Vegas. ?It helps give my daughter a better understanding of what I do while I?m away from home.?
Throughout the cruise, "Tigers" were treated to views of Navy life during daily operations such as a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) launches from Boxer?s well deck and flight operations from the Golden Gator?s 844-foot-long flight deck. One of the favorite exercises was the "Killer Tomato" launching, where a large red balloon was deployed into the ocean as a target for gunner?s mates firing .50-caliber machine guns.
?There was so much to see and do. I learned a lot of interesting facts and was amazed by Boxer?s capabilities,? said the father of Quartermaster 3rd Class Michael B. Russell, San Diego. ?My favorite places on Boxer were the bridge and the well deck, but the best part was being able to spend time with my son.?
In addition to observing operations, Tigers also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities. Throughout the week, they were able to enjoy a ?steel barn? picnic and ?cinema at sea? in the hangar bay, and an ice cream social on the ship?s mess deck.
Criteria The Joint Service Commendation Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding ac... The Joint Service Commendation Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not to an extent that would justify award of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Joint Service Achievement Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces below the grade of colonel (or captain in the Navy) who, while assigned to a joint... The Joint Service Achievement Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces below the grade of colonel (or captain in the Navy) who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not to the degree that would warrant award of the Joint Service Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Joint Service Achievement Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces below the grade of colonel (or captain in the Navy) who, while assigned to a joint... The Joint Service Achievement Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces below the grade of colonel (or captain in the Navy) who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not to the degree that would warrant award of the Joint Service Commendation Medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 r... The Navy Good Conduct Medal (NGCM) is a decoration presented by the United States Navy to recognize members who have completed three years of honorable service. Medals awarded before January 1, 1996 required four years of service. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Expeditionary Medal is awarded to Navy personnel who have landed on foreign territory and engaged in operations against armed opposition or who have operated under circumstances deemed to mer... The Navy Expeditionary Medal is awarded to Navy personnel who have landed on foreign territory and engaged in operations against armed opposition or who have operated under circumstances deemed to merit special recognition and for which no campaign medal has been awarded. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determine... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have been deployed abroad for service in the Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001, and to a future date to be determined MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, f... The Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to members of the Navy and Marine Corps assigned to U.S. homeported (including Hawaii and Alaska) ships, deploying units, or Fleet Marine Force commands, for 12 months accumulated sea duty, or for duty with the Fleet Marine Force that includes at least one deployment of 90 consecutive days. MoreHide
Criteria The Arctic Service Ribbon is awarded to military personnel the Navy and Marine Corps and to civilian citizens, nationals, or resident aliens of the United States for 28 days of service above the Arcti... The Arctic Service Ribbon is awarded to military personnel the Navy and Marine Corps and to civilian citizens, nationals, or resident aliens of the United States for 28 days of service above the Arctic Circle. For personnel working at remote ice camps and divers working under the ice, each day of duty will count as two days when determining award eligibility. There are no subsequent awards of this ribbon. MoreHide
Criteria The U.S. Navy has issued two marksmanship ribbons: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon, since 1920. The pistol ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the B... The U.S. Navy has issued two marksmanship ribbons: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon, since 1920. The pistol ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the Beretta 9mm pistol, while the rifle ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the M14 and M16 assault rifle variants. The Navy issues the marksmanship ribbon in three levels, that of Marksman, Sharpshooter, and Expert. The basic ribbon is awarded for the Marksman level while the specific Marksmanship Device is awarded for qualification as a Sharpshooter or Expert. Those receiving an Expert qualification receive the Marksmanship Medal, in addition to the Marksmanship Ribbon. MoreHide
Criteria The U.S. Navy has issued two marksmanship ribbons: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon, since 1920. The pistol ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the B... The U.S. Navy has issued two marksmanship ribbons: the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon, since 1920. The pistol ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the Beretta 9mm pistol, while the rifle ribbon is currently awarded for qualification on the M14 and M16 assault rifle variants. The Navy issues the marksmanship ribbon in three levels, that of Marksman, Sharpshooter, and Expert. The basic ribbon is awarded for the Marksman level while the specific Marksmanship Device is awarded for qualification as a Sharpshooter or Expert. Those receiving an Expert qualification receive the Marksmanship Medal, in addition to the Marksmanship Ribbon. MoreHide
Memories My decision to join the Navy was solely based on my sense of adventure. The Navy?s ad from my childhMy decision to join the Navy was solely based on my sense of adventure. The Navy?s ad from my childhood, ?It?s not just a job it?s an adventure,? truly struck home. I envisioned myself a bell-bottomed, Dixie-cup wearing sailor right out of the movie ?Mr. Roberts.? Ah the sweet pleasure of sailing the seven seas doing the hula-hula, late night pub crawls in Hong Kong, collecting an armful of tattoos and chasing after Thai girls and beer while being paid. So I enlisted. It was 1988. All has come true except for the tattoos.
The years flew by, a tour on USS Carl Vinson ? the Navy?s Golden Eagle, two tours with Pacific Fleet Combat Camera, surviving SERE School, graduating from Syracuse University?s DoD film school, a science expedition to the North Pole; and a tour with the Blue Angels as their backseat aerial photographer pulling a lot of G?s. I was operating on maximum overdrive, high on adrenaline. The ad had come true. It wasn?t just a job it was indeed an adventure. Little did I know that I had yet to experience the adventure of a lifetime, one that was life altering, made me grow-up and come to fully realize what it means to serve my country in the United States Navy.
After my tour with the Blue Angels shaming the Air Force team, we smugly referred to as ?Thunder Chicken?, by being the best military aerial demonstration team in the world I was detailed to the Pentagon. I had heatedly disagreed with my detailer?s decision. Taking a Secretary of Defense staff assignment at the Joint Combat Camera Center (JCCC) didn?t exactly register very high on my fun meter. Driving a desk, supporting Com Cam policy and supervising the reception of imagery from forward deployed combat camera teams isn?t exactly how I had ever envisioned myself. Damn it, I was an operator! The likelihood or remote possibility of me running into something fun and adventurous like arm-wrestling Bolivian Blow Dart Peddlers or fire walking with Tahitian Mai Tai Jugglers while stationed in DC was slim-to-none. Didn?t he have something for me, like pulling G?s in a fast-mover (I could fill volumes about how to prevent power puking inside the cockpit)? Or what about breaking through the Arctic?s polar cap in a nuclear powered fast attack submarine and standing guard against polar bear attack as I had in the past? I?m not exactly sure if a polar bear attack on a US Submariner constitutes an act of war, if so who owns the polar cap? If he wouldn?t send me to any of the above, how about something a bit more cerebral like me hitting a foreign beach armed to the teeth with Kevlar wearing Marines or maybe photographing Navy SEAL?s in revved up low-altitude fast moving helos moving in and out of hostile territory? I had always been a big fan of that sort of action. He said no to all. It was time for me to take a seat at a desk and help others do what I wanted to do.
And so on a hot muggy day I checked in. It was August 2001. The Pentagon buzzed like a beehive. I was impressed by all of military?s, ?Heavy Hitters? that walked the halls. There was a lot to learn, especially working with the other service branches. I wouldn?t however be sharing my thoughts about the Air Force?s flight demonstration squadron with my Air Force boss. What was there not to like? The world appeared to be at peace. I was stationed in our nation?s capitol. I had a large cubicle, and my own computer with super fast T-line connections. A Starbucks was conveniently located one floor below. Best of all, I would be home every night for the next three years to annoy my wife and kids. My first month flew by moving JCCC into the Pentagon?s newly renovated wing.
On a sunny, Tuesday morning I arrived at work. It was September 11, 2001. It was a little after nine A. M. when I got to work. My wife Dayle, was flying back home that day from attending a funeral in the mid-west. I was getting in late because I had to drop my kids off at school; playing the role of soccer mom somewhat new to me. My OIC was attending a conference in Norfolk, VA and my Operations Chief was at a meeting down the road in Alexandria. When I got to the office everybody was huddled around the TV. The news was reporting that a plane had crashed into one of New York?s Twin Towers. I stood flabbergasted as the tragedy unfolded. To my disbelief a second jet slammed into the Twin Towers. My memory is a bit fuzzy of what happened next, but as I recall, soon afterwards the Pentagon shuddered and shook. My co-workers and I looked at each other not sure of what had just happened. That sure seemed like one helluva sonic-boom I thought to myself. Having come from the ?Blues? my mind still operated in the aviation world of thinking. The phone rang. I answered it. It was one of my guys who, was off for the day at home just across the Anacostia River at Bolling Air Force Base. He asked me if we had just been attacked. I said ?is that what that was?? I said I wasn?t sure, there were no alarms going off. He said he thought so because looking from his back yard black smoke was pouring out of the Pentagon. Someone went out to investigate. They quickly came back. All they said was, ?We gotta go.?
Smoke filled halls were filled with people making their way towards exits. The murmur of voices and shuffling feet was all that could be heard. No one had a clue to what had just happened. The idea of a passenger plane hijacked by terrorists and crashing into the Pentagon was as remote a possibility as Arnold Schwarzenegger becoming the governor of California. Not exactly knowing what to think I made my way outside. Once outside I saw thick black smoke rising from the building. I thought that maybe construction workers working on the renovation might have hit a gas main. All sorts of thoughts ran through my head as hordes of dazed and confused people continued to pour into the daylight. Wanting information I went to my car and turned on the radio to listen to the news. I sat stunned not believing what I was hearing. Holy crap I thought. We?ve been attacked by terrorists, same as the Twin Towers. My God there are people in the wreckage. I spend my entire career trying to get into the action and when I think that I?m away in the rear the action comes looking for me. I heard approaching sirens in the distance. Then it dawned on me. My wife was flying home that day. My mind raced with morbid fear. Is she safe? Has she got on the plane yet? In a fog I made my way to the pre-determined rally point. Once there I set my personal emotions aside. I had people to muster and account for. The rest of JCCC showed up. All were accounted for. Then security officers were yelling for everybody to leave the area because another attack was imminent. Mass hysteria hit the crowd. What the heck was going on? Like cockroaches scattering when the lights come on, civilians, military personnel, politicians and bungling bureaucrats ran for cover. Somehow we all ended up on the other side of Highway 395. I knew I wouldn?t be seeing my car for a long time. More worries filled my mind, thinking of how would I get home and who would pick-up and care for my kids? The second attack turned out to be a false alarm. I set aside my worries, I focused on the positive. My wife would be OK and I would figure out how to get home and take care of my children, but first I had my duty to fulfill. Once again I accounted for my personnel. Fortunately several members had grabbed their cell phones. The airways were jammed, but after repeated attempts we were able to get a hold of my boss. He instructed us to get to the American Forces Information Services (AFIS) in Alexandria, where he currently was and where we would set up shop. There was imagery to get out to the world. The story needed to be told. Because none of us had access to our cars we made our way to the nearest metro station. I tried repeatedly, but couldn?t reach my wife. I was scared. Fortunately I was able to contact a neighbor who would pick my kids up from school. Once at AFIS we went into action setting up a temporary JCCC - still and video imagery started to come in. Sec Def wanted his imagery. Hours later after repeated attempts I finally was able to get a hold of my wife. She was safe. Her plane had been delayed because of the tragedy. She had spent her time desperately trying to get a hold of me, fearing for the worst ? widow hood. I assured that her I was un-harmed and that the kids were safe with a neighbor. We cried for our good fortune and the mis-fortune of others. I thanked God for watching over me and my family. I had been less than a hundred yards around the corner from the crash site. Late that night in the safety of my home with my kids snug in bed I realized that a week earlier before moving into the newly renovated wing, JCCC had been located in the area of impact and that a few of my office mates and I would have been in the old office that morning to make sure we had moved everything, but had not because we had been watching the Twin Towers tragedy on TV. I sighed with relief. It had been a close call.
Years later, thinking about that bleak morning in September when all of America held its breath and our enemies cheered I give pause to reflect. Understanding, that on that day something awoke in me that had been missing in me, if not many others - service and sacrifice. I had spent my time in the Navy up until then thinking of what I could take or get out of the deal. My training, my many deployments, my wanting fun and adventure had always been about me. Sure, I had always been a good Sailor, but I had been driven by hubris and selfish desire. Not giving much thought to what it meant to serve my country. I was happy as long as I was able to collect a paycheck. It didn?t happen overnight, but over the course of my tour at the Pentagon and supporting the ?Global War on Terror? I found a new sense of purpose and energy. I worked long hours, determined to support the cause and give meaning to my duty. Gone were my days of thinking that being a Sailor meant being a sea going pirate, swashbuckling across the globe, with tales to spin and tell. People had died and would continue to do so without mine and every American?s full support to stop our enemies. So when it was time for me to talk to my detailer about orders, I didn?t hesitate to ask for USS Boxer because that was where I was needed. My days of asking for fun and adventurous jobs seeking personal reward and glamour were over. And so whenever I find myself on long arduous extended deployments while sailing in harms way wondering why I have to be here and for what purpose I think of all those who have gone before me and of their sacrifice and dedication to service. When my time in the Navy comes to a close I want to be able to say as President Kennedy so eloquently said,
"I can imagine no more rewarding a career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction:
Description "Operation Enduring Freedom" (OEF) is the current official name used by the U.S. government for the War in Afghanistan, together with a number of smaller military actions, under the umbrella of the Gl"Operation Enduring Freedom" (OEF) is the current official name used by the U.S. government for the War in Afghanistan, together with a number of smaller military actions, under the umbrella of the Global "War on Terror" (GWOT).
The operation was originally called "Operation Infinite Justice", but as similar phrases have been used by adherents of several religions as an exclusive description of God, it is believed to have been changed to avoid offense to Muslims, who are the majority religion in Afghanistan. U.S. President George W. Bush's remark that "this crusade, this war on terrorism, is going to take a while", which prompted widespread criticism from the Islamic world, may also have contributed to the renaming of the operation.
The Operation comprises several subordinate operations:
Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (OEF-P, formerly Operation Freedom Eagle)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Horn of Africa (OEF-HOA)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Pankisi Gorge (completed in 2004)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Trans Sahara (OEF-TS; see also Insurgency in the Maghreb)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Caribbean and Central America (OEF-CCA)
The term "OEF" typically refers to the war in Afghanistan. Other operations, such as the Georgia Train and Equip Program, are only loosely or nominally connected to OEF, such as through government funding vehicles. All the operations, however, have a focus on counterterrorism activities.
Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, which is a joint U.S., U.K. and Afghan operation, is separate from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), which is an operation of North Atlantic Treaty Organization nations including the U.S. and U.K. The two operations run in parallel, and although it has been intended that they merge for some time, this has not yet happened.
Overview
In response to the attacks of 11 September, the early combat operations that took place on 7 October 2001 to include a mix of strikes from land-based B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit and B-52 Stratofortress bombers, carrier-based F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 Hornet fighters, and Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from both U.S. and British ships and submarines signaled the start of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A).
The initial military objectives of OEF-A, as articulated by President George W. Bush in his 20 September Address to a Joint Session of Congress and his 7 October address to the country, included the destruction of terrorist training camps and infrastructure within Afghanistan, the capture of al-Qaeda leaders, and the cessation of terrorist activities in Afghanistan."
In January 2002, over 1,200 soldiers from the United States Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC) deployed to the Philippines to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in their push to uproot terrorist forces on the island of Basilan. Of those groups included are Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiyah.[8] The operation consisted of training the AFP in counter-terrorist operations as well as supporting the local people with humanitarian aid in Operation Smiles.
In October 2002, the Combined Task Force 150 and United States military Special Forces established themselves in Djibouti at Camp Lemonnier. The stated goals of the operation were to provide humanitarian aid and patrol the Horn of Africa to reduce the abilities of terrorist organizations in the region. Similar to OEF-P, the goal of humanitarian aid was emphasised, ostensibly to prevent militant organizations from being able to take hold amongst the population as well as reemerge after being removed.
The military aspect involves coalition forces searching and boarding ships entering the region for illegal cargo as well as providing training and equipment to the armed forces in the region. The humanitarian aspect involves building schools, clinics and water wells to enforce the confidence of the local people.
Since 2001, the cumulative expenditure by the U.S. government on Operation Enduring Freedom has exceeded $150 billion.
The operation continues, with military direction mostly coming from United States Central Command.... More
Selection as SSOY 2006, earning my 3rd warfare pin (ESWS) FY-08 Chief Select
USS Boxer Announces Sailors of the Year
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Joshua Valcarcel, USS Boxer Public Affairs
USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Boxer?s (LHD 4) Commanding Officer, Capt. Bruce W. Nichols, honored the ship?s Junior Sailor, Sailor and Senior Sailor of the Year (SOY) for 2006 during an all hands call Jan. 22.
Personnelman 3rd Class (SW/AW) Maria Arteaga; Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class (SW/AW/SS) Michael H. Kelley; and Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW/SS) Steven H. Vanderwerff were recognized for outstanding performance and demonstrated leadership while serving in the command the past year.
?The Navy core values mean a lot to me. They are the foundation of my work ethic personally and professionally,? said Vanderwerff, the Senior SOY. ?It?s nice to be recognized, because being a Boxer Sailor means a lot to me.?
During the all hands call, Nichols awarded each a Navy Achievement Medal and presented them with a ?Sailor of the Year? plaque.
?I want to make a difference in the command by setting a good example,? said Kelly, the command?s SOY. ?It?s great to be recognized in front of all my shipmates.?
The three Sailors demonstrated exceptional qualities among their peers and performed above and beyond what is expected of them.
?I share my success with my leadership for trusting me to get the job done even when it exceeded my pay grade,? said Vanderwerff. ?And at the same time I could not have accomplished this without the support of my shipmates.?
Throughout the year, Boxer?s leadership provided guidance and mentorship, helping pave the way for them to accomplish their level of success, said Arteaga.
?I received nothing but encouragement and support from my leadership,? said Arteaga, the Junior SOY. ?By challenging myself I was able to attain and exceed my goals.?
Boxer?s 2006 Sailors of the Year plan on continuing to motivate and set an example for their shipmates.
?I?m going to make sure I uphold the honor of being Boxer?s Sailor of the Year by continuing to set the example,? added Kelley. ?I?m a reflection of what it means to be a Boxer Sailor.?
Boxer is the flagship for Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) which is currently conducting maritime security operations in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander U.S. 5th Fleet?s area of responsibility encompasses about 7.5 million square miles and includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse, comprised of 27 countries, includes three critical chokepoints at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.
Boxer ESG Sailors Build Homes,
International Release Date: 11/13/2006
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class S. H. Vanderwerff, USS Boxer Public Affairs
MUMBAI, India (NNS) -- More than 100 Sailors from USS Boxer (LHD 4) Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG) traveled to Patan village in Lonavala, India, to lend a hand with Habitat for Humanity?s Jimmy Carter Work Project (JCWP) India 2006 during their port visit here Nov. 1-2.
When the Sailors arrived, they joined more than 2,000 volunteers from around the world to take part in the annual event led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn. The goal was to build 100 homes in one week with low-income families from the area.
?I didn?t expect such a large project when I signed up,? said Boxer Interior Communications 1st Class (SW/AW) Dwayne Solomon. ?I thought we?d be working on a house. Instead we?re building a community.?
When he spoke to the press earlier that week, Carter spoke about the need for affordable housing.
?We?ve realized that people across the globe have the same basic needs, dreams and aspirations,? he said. ?Habitat?s program depends on finding families who cannot otherwise afford housing.?
The Sailors were divided among the 100 homes, working side-by-side with people from around the globe and the soon-to-be homeowners, painting, laying bricks and mixing cement.
?This is by far the largest community service project I?ve ever been involved with. It?s amazing,? said Cryptologic Technician Seaman Vanessa Malgra, of USS Benfold (DDG 65). ?I?ve helped out in Mexico, Australia and Singapore and always try to give back to the countries I visit.?
Sailors who volunteered also met with more than 40 members of the local media to answer questions and tell them why they were lending a hand.
?At first I was a little overwhelmed,? said Boxer?s Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Raul Huerta. ?I wasn?t sure what to say, but their interest to know why we were in India helped make it easy to answer their questions. I told them that during our visit to Mumbai, we wanted to do more than sightsee and shop; we also wanted to help out in the community.?
Throughout the day, the public announcing system played a variety of music, a bazaar sold Indian souvenirs, local performers filled the air with the beat of their drums, and a dining facility the size of a small aircraft hangar bay served Indian food.
The event was particularly special for the Sailors when they met and had their photo taken with the 39th president, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate who served as a naval officer for seven years.
?It was great. We got to meet Jimmy Carter and had a group photo taken with him,? said Boxer?s Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW) Steve Johnson.
During their visit, Sailors said they were aware that they were doing more than building homes and helping those in need; they were building relations with the people of India.
During previous visits to India, the U.S. Navy has donated medical supplies, sewing machines and books to The Trust of Nanu Nagle School for the Poor and has helped refurbish Bal Bhavan Children's Center's auditorium in Goa.
?I?m helping build a house with several women from Cambodia, Korea, India and Hong Kong,? said Boxer?s Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Maribel Challburg. ?It makes me very proud to work side-by-side with these women.?
The U.S. Navy has a longstanding commitment to assisting friends and allies with community service projects. During its port visit to Singapore, Oct. 12-16,, BOXESG helped a career skills training center with gardening, yard work, and supported a beach clean-up. The Navy?s participation continues the U.S.?s involvement in Habitat for Humanity?s work in the region.
?Habitat for Humanity volunteers are following the Carters? example of neighbors helping neighbors,? said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. ?Every person who is part of this project will be enriched this week by working with Habitat partner families who are helping to improve their lives and the lives of others in the community.?
The BOXESG is currently conducting routine operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility.
Boxer is the flagship for the BOXESG, which is further comprised of Amphibious Squadron 5, the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, USS Dubuque (LPD 8), USS Comstock (LSD 45), USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), Benfold, USS Howard (DDG 83), USCG Midgett (WHEC 726), and the Canadian frigate HMCS Ottawa. The BOXESG operates out of San Diego and reports operationally to Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/ Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious task force
Boxer Returns from Surge Deployment
Release Date: 9/16/2005 11:46:00 AM
By Photographer?s Mate 1st Class Steven Vanderwerff, USS Boxer Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Boxer (LHD 4) (the "Golden Gator") returned from its third deployment in three years Sept. 14 to the sound of cheers from family and friends.
The four-and-one-half-month deployment demonstrated the feasibility of the Navy?s Fleet Response Plan (FRP), which ensures ships are able to respond to real-world situations by maintaining high states of readiness during their surge windows.
While Boxer?s two previous deployments were in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the role of Sailors aboard the Golden Gator during this deployment was to build interoperability between the United States and key allies in the global war on terrorism.
?This deployment was a clear demonstration of the multimission capabilities that the L-Class big-brings to fleet commanders,? said Capt. T.J. Culora, Boxer?s commanding officer. ?We were able to safely complete diverse tasks, including a joint amphibious landing, cooperation and formation tactics with several foreign navies and a rewarding humanitarian engagement mission in the Marshall Islands. All in all, I would say that this is a pretty good four-and-one-half-months' work. I am proud of the service and skill of the crew ? they have performed magnificently.?
Boxer?s first mission, participation in exercise Talisman Saber ?05, took place June 11-27 on Australia?s famed Shoalwater Bay. Talisman Saber, a combination of what was once exercises Tandem Thrust, Kingfisher and Crocodile, was jointly sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command and Australian Defense Force Joint Operations Command.
The exercise served as a key training venue for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, as a scenario involving assembling a combined task force with short notice, power projection and forcible entry.
?Talisman Saber was a key exercise in the Pacific Fleet area of responsibility and a demonstration of support and solidarity between two nations committed to democracy, liberty and human rights,? said Culora. ?It is a tangible expression of mutual respect and pledge of assistance.?
The exercise involved more than 17,000 U.S. and Australian service members. Working hand-in-hand, they performed more than 25 landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) trips and more than 1,300 Australian S-70A Blackhawk and U.S. MH-60S Nighthawk landings and takeoffs.
After completing exercises with Australia, Boxer journeyed to Kemaman, Malaysia, where the ship participated in the third phase of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT).
Boxer served as the flagship for CARAT, Phase III operations, during which Malaysian and U.S. forces built cooperative military proficiencies July 12-18 with more than 150 Malaysian service members embarked.
The focus of the exercise was operational planning, command and control, tactics, logistics support and maritime law.
?CARAT is not only important to the Navy, but to the nation,? said Boxer?s Executive Officer Cmdr. Adrian J. Jansen. ?Whether training to combat terrorism, provide mutual defense or humanitarian assistance relief, building a working relationship with the CARAT nations is important. CARAT helps to build a solid working relationship for any situation.?
The exercise was deemed a testament to the strength of the ties and teamwork that the U.S. and Malaysia have shared for decades. The ease with which the two nations came together directly reflected the spirit of their longstanding cooperative relationship. The exercise also strengthened professional skills of those involved at every level, from the flight deck to the engineering spaces.
Performing at peak performance with two successful exercises under its belt, the Golden Gator prepared for the third annual Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX), where forces of nature also provided real-world challenges as Typhoon Matsa moved through the operating area.
Units moved more than 600 miles to stay one step ahead of the storm before returning to the operation area. Despite Matsa, Joint Air and Sea Exercise commenced aboard Boxer Aug. 7 in the vicinity of Okinawa with an armed flight deck of AV-8B Harrier IIs and a team of 87 Marines from the 1st Marine Air Wing.
?JASEX is one of those great opportunities where we can work with our nation?s other forces,? said Cmdr. Mark F. Volpe, Boxer?s operations officer. ?Working as a joint task force is a great venue for learning from each other and integrating.?
During the seven?day exercise, Boxer, along with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Strike Group, the U.S. Air Force?s 18th Wing, 5th Air Force and 1st Marine Air Wing, conducted joint training combining carrier and amphibious operations. After more than 60 mishap-free flight hours, Boxer wrapped up JASEX Aug. 13.
Boxer capped off its deployment as the summer quickly came to an end by conducting a community outreach program on the island of Majuro, the capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Volunteers from among the more than 1,200 Sailors and Marines embarked aboard the ship provided critical assistance to the island nation.
Boxer?s medical staff, with the help of Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 5, sponsored a community health fair and provided medical treatment to Majuro?s young and elderly. They also held cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, basic first aid and first-responder training for police, firefighters, emergency medical service workers, U.S. Embassy personnel and teachers from the World Peace Organization.
Teams of Boxer Sailors also went to local schools to read to the students and brighten their day with treats, coloring books and games. Other Sailors volunteered to help the community by restoring electricity and refurbishing a few public areas.
?This experience provided a unique opportunity for all involved,? said Lt. Johan Baik, one of Boxer?s two chaplains. ?Our Sailors and Marines made a huge impact on the island and the community. This is one of the events that stay in a person?s heart forever.?
To cap off its deployment, Boxer held a "Tiger Cruise" for more than 150 family members and friends Sept. 7-14 while making its return transit from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, back to the ship?s homeport of San Diego.
The Tiger Cruise gave family and friends the opportunity to experience life as a Sailor at sea.
?I love the fact that my family finally gets to experience my life firsthand and learn what my job is all about,? said Boatswain?s Mate 2nd Class Karina E. Perez-Prado, of Las Vegas. ?It helps give my daughter a better understanding of what I do while I?m away from home.?
Throughout the cruise, "Tigers" were treated to views of Navy life during daily operations such as a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) launches from Boxer?s well deck and flight operations from the Golden Gator?s 844-foot-long flight deck. One of the favorite exercises was the "Killer Tomato" launching, where a large red balloon was deployed into the ocean as a target for gunner?s mates firing .50-caliber machine guns.
?There was so much to see and do. I learned a lot of interesting facts and was amazed by Boxer?s capabilities,? said the father of Quartermaster 3rd Class Michael B. Russell, San Diego. ?My favorite places on Boxer were the bridge and the well deck, but the best part was being able to spend time with my son.?
In addition to observing operations, Tigers also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities. Throughout the week, they were able to enjoy a ?steel barn? picnic and ?cinema at sea? in the hangar bay, and an ice cream social on the ship?s mess deck.