Deployment 2011

Volume 3

July 2011
nition the work doesnt stop once we return to homeport and the major planning begins to take effect before we are pier-side. Everyone discusses their goals and objectives so that their maintenance does not interfere with other divisions. Plans are made and changed on a daily basis. But its all in the hope of utilizing the time we have available to conduct repairs, and just as importantly, maximizing the time everyone gets to spend with their families after a long deployment. So now begins the downhill portion of deployment! The beginning of the end is here, new experiences are waiting to be enjoyed, new challenges wait to be overcome and all are leading to a successful return home.

Half Way Home!

By: IT2(SW) Stefani Wells
Halfway day. The words alone conjure up various thoughts from people around the ship. For some it is the beginning of the end; for others it is just the start of another long, complicated, and stressful process. Still others will tell you it is just another day onboard USS Howard. But no matter who you talk to, it means that the trip is almost done. Halfway Day is the day that the ship takes to celebrate and enjoy the fact that we have made it halfway through the deployment, and only a couple of months are left before we go home to our families. The Halfway Day of this deployment was celebrated over the course of 2 days. The Monday and Tuesday before the Howard pulled into Singapore was given over to the relaxation and the stress relief that can be Halfway Day. With many MWR hosted events such as, Guitar Hero contest on the Mess Decks, to Domino tournaments and The Iron Chief awardees (where everyone had the chance to bid for their favorite, or least favorite, Chief to serve on the mess line). Sailors had time to enjoy a successful first half of deployment. While some enjoyed the time to celebrate the halfway mark, others began to think about what comes after. Now comes the time to start planning for the return and the work that not only needs to be done prior to pulling the ship back into San Diego, but also the work that needs to be accomplished after homecoming. Whether it is the Boatswain Mates plan to paint the ship, to the Electricians taking down major pieces of equipment to clean out internal parts, to Weapons department moving guns and ammu-

Howard Sailors man the rails as they leave their final CARAT port in the Phillipines.

Half-way tHrougH deployment, Howard Has.

Used 2 million gallons of H2O Traveled 15,000 nautical miles Used 34,500 gallons of aviation fuel Flown over 350 flight hours Ordered 151 aviation parts and spent $1M in helicopter repairs Burned 2 million gallons of fuel Cracked 496,800 eggs Consumed 375 gallons of ice cream Drunk 76,120 pots of coffee Knocked back 7,200 Monsters and Red Bulls Sold 15,280 candy bars Eaten 4,200 hamburgers Spent $2.2M in ship parts and repairs

Welcome AboArd! FAreWell, Friends

We extend a sincere welcome to the newest additions upon the USS Howard that have joined us this month.

LT Martin, Combat Systems Officer LT Torres, Operations Officer LTJG Ellison, Navigator ENS Stadler ENS Carter CWO2 Smiler CMDCM Brady, Command Master Chief CTTC Brock DCC Brandes CS1 Garciarositas CS1 Throm SH2 Paradalopez FC2 Franklin GM2 Warner OS2 Rogers BM2 Lopez

FC3 Domingo GSM3 Casner AE3 Nario EN3 McDowell FC3 Butterfield FC3 Vigneux ETSN Floreslomeli FCSN Snarr MRFR Martinez GMSN Pulliam ENFN Campbell OSSR Sanders OSSA DeJohn SR Mustoe SA Teran

Fair winds and following seas to the Howard Sailors that have left us during the month of July

LCDR Shick, Combat Systems Officer CMDCM Blackburn, Command Master Chief LT McCullar DC1 Linderson FC2 Castro CTR2 Tempel GSM2 Williams GM2 Cadena

By: CTMSA Rebecca Marinacci

Department of the month : Supply

Though not the first thing that generally comes to mind when you think of a warship, Supply Department plays a vital role in keeping the ship running smoothly. Between the three divisions, they have a variety of tasks that they perform on a daily basis. S-1, the Logistic Specialists (LSs) division, takes care of the ordering of supplies for the ship. Everything from simple brooms to large pieces of equipment needed to repair vital systems is ordered through them. They also handle the processing of outgoing and incoming mail, something Sailors are always looking forward to on deployment. The LSs also handle all of the Hazardous Materials (known as HAZMAT) on the ship, issuing them out to sailors as they require them. We then have S-2, the division that boasts the ships Culinary Specialists (CSs) as well as their temporary assistants, the Food Service Attendants (FSAs). The skills demonstrated by the ships CSs provide for much of the ships morale. From the barbeques of the Steel Beach picnics to the superb formal reception held in Indonesia, the Howards CSs take it all in stride. FSAs, sometimes known as Cranks, are there with them through it all. Its a job that many enlisted will face at some point in their salty careers, and it certainly shows the new faces to the crew just how much their Supply department does for them. FSAs spend anywhere from 90-120 days working some of the various jobs that S-2 has to offer them. These jobs can be anywhere from serving in the wardroom to pulping the crews trash down below. Its not always easy, but its something that certainly leaves the Sailor with new insight when they return to their divisions. Lastly, but certainly not the least, are the Ships Servicemen (SHs) of S-3. The SHs work diligently on many tasks including running the ships store, selling all sorts of necessities and goodies to the Sailors onboard the Howard (including the much-appreciated Monsters and Red Bulls!). They also keep the vending machines stocked with new treats and sodas for when the ship store is closed. SHs run the ships laundry, keeping Sailors with fresh new uniforms for work each day - and provide haircuts so that Sailors can keep looking good even after months at sea. The Supply department onboard the Howard works hard every day keeping Sailors well fed, cared for, and happy. It might not seem like much from the outside, but once you get a chance to see their department from the inside, you can see just how vital Supply really is. While I will certainly be happy to return to my division and department, this one has left its own little mark on me. Keep on keepin on, Supply!

LS2(SW) Armstrong and CS3(SW) Gomez hard at work preparing food for CARAT.

IC3 Foster demonstrating the finer points of cleanliness during his tenure as a Food Service Attendant.

uSS howarD ConDuCtS repairS anD preServation while in-port Singapore

By: BM3(SW) Meryl Vogel
USS Howard pulled into Singapore on July 20th to get some much needed work done before it sailed off to support missions in 5th fleet. Howard needed some TLC after being out to sea for over three months. A major paint plan was put into effect hours after we pulled into port. Boatswains Mates (BMs) Information Technician (ITS) Engineers, Quarter Masters (QMS) Fire Controlmen (FCs) and many other rates on the ship were out and about fixing equipment, painting and preserving. The BMs were provided with 2 paint floats and 2 JLGs along with people from other divisions to paint the sides of the ship and the waterline. BM1 (SW) Stephen Phillips and CTRSN Adam Cunningham spent hours working on the waterline with paint scrapers, sanders and needle guns to get rid of rust, debris, salt and repainted a good portion of the black paint that defines the waterline. Operations Specialist worked very hard at getting their topside spaces up to snuff. Cryptologic Technicians (CTM, CTR, CTTs) were busy fixing antennas. ITs were busy preserving their topside area. Ensign Cheezem did an outstanding job, along with IT3 Morrow, preserving the port side break. The QMs sanded, scrapped and painted their bridge wings. The Engineers fixed a critical piece of equipment called a MORPAC valve, which controls ventilation in the ships Flammable Paint Locker issue room. While in Singapore we also replaced the Ships Multi-Function Towed Array (MFTA). This is the Sonar Techs latest toy that allows them to virtually leave the thunderous concert hall that is the Howard with all her engines and noise and listen for those sneaky sheisty submarines down the street. Or in this case, several hundred feet under the water and upwards of a mile behind the ship, right where they like to hide. states STG1 (SW) Christopher Harding. Its 100% fully operational, added Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer, Ensign Alex Litvachuk. In the 100+ degree heat many Sailors were drinking water and trying to stay hydrated and cool. Each and every Sailor on Howard worked extremely hard throughout the four day visit to Singapore in order to get the ship back where is needed to be to enter 5th Fleet. Some Sailors worked 14 hour days to make sure their work got done. Not every port we stop at is a liberty port. We knew coming into Singapore that this was going to be a working port and that a lot of things needed to get done in a short amount of time, said BM3 (SW) Meryl Vogel but we did what we had to do and still got to see some of Singapore. Universal Studios was worth the trip!

Giving the 5 gun some TLC takes a steady hand and sturdy footing.

worDS from the CommanD maSter Cheif

Hello Crew and Family, I would like to personally thank you all for making me feel like a part of the HOWARD team and welcoming me onboard right from the start. It is an honor and pleasure to be the Command Master Chief of one of the finest Navy vessels in the fleet. The Chiefs Mess and Wardroom especially welcomed me with open arms and the turnover process made it a very smooth transition. I am excited to be here and be a part of this great crew. I look forward to serving with each one of you and doing my part to make your tour is a very successful and enjoyable experience. We will be faced with different challenges throughout the remainder of this deployment, but nothing that we cant accomplish with a little teamwork and dedication. Keep working hard and pushing through the many obstacles that may stand in your way. You are doing an excellent job, keep up the hard work!! To the families, thank you for your support while we are away. Continue to lean on each other in the time of need. A strong family support system is what each Sailor needs to be successful throughout his or her career in the Navy. I look forward to seeing all of you upon returning to San Diego. QUITTING IS NOT AN OPTION LETS GET IT!! DO WHAT YOU DO!! Sincerely, Master Chief Raymond LaCarlos Brady Command Master Chief

reCap: uSS howarD anD Carat 2011

By: LT Alison Derr
The USS Howard and her crew sailed from port to port throughout Southeast Asia for the first half of deployment, but it wasnt all fun, games and relaxing poolside. Instead, the crew actively participated in four Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training exercises with the Royal Thai Navy, the Indonesian Navy, the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Philippine Navy. With exercise events ranging from social functions to at-sea training evolutions, the entire ship engaged in the effort to enhance ties with these foreign navies throughout a variety of naval exercises. It was a great opportunity to work with other navies, said LT j.g. Dan DeFreval. It really exemplified our jointoperating capabilities. They were extremely enthusiastic to learn and train with us and in return, we had a really positive experience in each of the countries we worked with and visited. Each CARAT exercise consisted of a series of workshops, discussions and seminars focused on various military efforts and how the US Navy and the host nation navies can better work together during future joint operations. Additionally, a variety of dinners, receptions, welcome parties, sporting events and community service projects were hosted in order to celebrate the bonds made and to showcase the work being accomplished to the local public. While participating in CARAT Indonesia 2011, Howard had the opportunity to host a reception that welcomed military, government and civilian officials onboard from both the local Indonesia public, as well as American leaders living and working in Jakarta. They were demanding port visits that kept the crew busy, but they were overall very rewarding experiences. Its not very often that you have the chance to personally affect our nations relationship with other countries, said Lt j.g. Brick Christensen, Howard Liaison Officer for CARAT Thailand and Indonesia. As always, Howards commitment to excellence showcased her immense talent, both at sea and in-port throughout each of the CARAT exercises. Upholding her reputation, Howard demonstrated her professionalism and expertise in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and The Philippines. Though the ship is leaving Southeast Asia and heading west for new operations, Howard and her crew will continue to execute each mission and tasking the same professionalism and expertise.

(Above) Commander Task Group 73.1, CAPT David Welch and CDR Andree Bergmann recap with foreign military officials. (Left) When the Captain tells you to pull, you PULL!

Bravo Zulu

The First Class Petty Officers Association would like to recognize the following Sailors for their dedication and hard work during the first few weeks of deployment. Keep it up!

from the firSt ClaSS petty offiCerS aSSoCiation

er division dC1 nelms, dC2 KruCiaK, Ht2 furrier, dCfn Hitt & Htfn gripp
For outstanding response as members of the Flying Squad to an actual Toxic Gas leak while in-port Philippines. Their quick response prevented any personnel casualties and prevented further damage to the equipment.

Cg division gm3 nomiCos

For his hard work in ensuring that the proper ammunition was utilized and the required maintenance was performed on Howards crew served weapons in preparation for multiple gun shoots throughout the month of July. Ce division For repairing tactical communications circuits that allow Howard to be STRIKE capable. For repairing small boat electronics and ensuring complete operational readiness.

et3 oberosler & et3 avedisian et3 pHillips & et2 fielder

iC3 Colombo & iC2 wilbert

For repairing and restoring cease fire alarms to complete operational status.

For assuming two collateral duties within CA Division typically held by more senior personnel. Thank you for all that you do and keep up the good work!!

Ca division stg3 betsCH

CongratS to the new unDerway offiCer of the DeCkS!

ENS Jennifer Malherek, ENS Tara Cheezem, ENS Jon Lloyd, ENS Michael Austin, ENS Ashley Valanzola

A word from our ombudsmAn...

Hello Howard Family and Friends,
We are Half-Way through deployment! This time can bring to light a feeling of mixed emotions and questions you may have. It is a time of celebration, excitement and planning for homecoming. It can also feel like a time of realization that there is still awhile before homecoming and reuniting with your loved ones. The mid-deployment feeling of floating in time indefinitely leaves some angry, some depressed, and some simply exhausted. It is normal to feel many emotions and reactions to the reality of half-way. It can be difficult at times to keep the lines of communication open during deployment but it is beneficial for everyone. Regardless of the type of communication used, encourage all of your family members and friends to stay in communication with your crewmember regardless of how often they hear back. While they may not have the time to respond with lengthy responses to each person, receiving mail and other communication from home will help to boost their spirits while deployed. Above all, remember that communication of some sort is key. It doesnt matter so much how you communicate, just that you do. Keeping children connected with their deployed parent is important. From letters to e-mails and phone calls, strong communication is the only way parents can stay connected to their kids. It is also the perfect solution to counter loneliness felt by a parent during deployment. From traditional to modern concepts, parents on deployment have several ways to stay connected to their children. In some ways, it can be like they never left. This not only establishes a stronger bond, it enables their children to feel secure while their parent is away. Keeping busy and involved in various activities that you like may help ease the wait. Socializing with others who are going through the same feelings can help also. If you have not already constructed some type of countdown calendar, Half-Way would be a great time to do so. You can make a calendar for yourself, children, extended family members etc. When you are able to see everyday closer to homecoming it helps with the second half of deployment. Preparation and planning for your family members return can be exciting and exhausting. Trying to overwhelm yourself with details and expectations can become stressful. Remember to relax and look forward to your loved ones return. The second half of deployment may pass by quickly for some and not as quickly for others. Always keep in mind that everyone has different experiences and expectations.

Terra Cramer USS Howard Command Ombudsman

Happy Birthday to Howard Sailors with Birthdays in the Month of July!

MAC(SEL) ZIELINSKI, SH1 ELENES, DC1 SHIPPEE, GMSA CASEY, HM2 HOWARD, ET2 HYDE, ENS MALHEREK, BM2 LOPEZ, HMC VOLKART, ENS LLOYD, EM2 JONES, OS2 MARTINEZ, GSM2 BALLAH, GSM1 MARZAN, LS2 ARMSTRONG, ET3 MAY, DC1 NELMS, GM2 PAZ, ET3 BENTANCOURT, CTT3 GAITHER, STG2 ZABEZHINSKY FC2 BEASLEY, CTRSA CUNNINGHAM, LSSN FERNANDEZ, STG1 HARDING, ET3 MIKOLAY, SH1 WILLIAMS, PS2 THOMAS

happy BirthDay!

July eSwS/eawS
Congratulations to the following Howard Sailors on earning their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist(ESWS) or Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist(EAWS) qualifications!

BM2 RENE ARDON GM2 CRAIG WILLIAMS LS2 LAURA ARMSTRONG OS3 FLOWZELL JOHNSON IT2 JAMIE MORROW CS3 SELIA GOMEZ CS3 LHENDIE ROCAMORA EM3 BONNY TILEY FC3 ALICIA SANCHEZ LSSN JULIBER FERNANDEZ AOAN ROSSON, JAMES AMAN HEINS, SABRINA.

Howard Dragons: This is how we roll

Its always fun to see what new stores we receive during Stores Onload.

Howard Sailors enjoy a fireworks show from the missle deck on the 4th of July

Taking some time to strum a few songs on the flight deck.

Words Home

By:

fC2(Sw) Cierra wyre

Hey Victor, love and miss you lots! Stay out of trouble and keep momma safe for us! Hey there lovey dove. Here counting down the days till I get to see your beautiful smile again. Be strong and God Bless you. Love, Steve Hey family. I hope all is well back at home. Dont miss me too much because in about 6 months youll see me allllllll the time! \(^_^)/mwahahahaha. Love you and miss you all a bunch! Love, Cierra Hey Emily, I love you and miss you. I cant wait to be back home to see you and Amelia. I cant wait to hold her in my arms for the first time. See you soon! Love, Casey Hey J.J. I miss you and cant wait to see you. Love you son. Love, Dad Hey Matt, cant wait to see you. Lets take the cars out and cruise. Midget (Marcus), we have to catch up on some Ben 10. I love you both and give mommy a big hug and kiss for me. Love, Dad Hi Kate! You are so brave and tough and a great mom. Miss you so much, hang in there! 2 tsp of sugar! Love, Dan To my little princess, my little monkey, and my little spoon. I love you so much and I will see you soon. Love, Jake Hey Girls, I miss you both so much. Laura, Im so proud of you, like always, you come out stronger than ever. Shelby, youre getting to be such a big girl, take care of mommy and have fun on your first day of school. I love you both, see you soon. Love, Daddy(Chase) Hey Teddy (Kurt). I miss you. Dont worry too much I have enough ramen noodles for now. Love, Lislee To Suzy Greenberg: Keep on rocking in the free world! To her children: Let each day be your masterpiece Love, Ryan Hey Larry, I miss you. Give peaches lots of lovens and Joshua be safe in Afghanistan. Love, Ashley aka Sissy Tania, happy anniversary my love! Miss you and I will be home soon. To Freddy and Ciana, daddy misses you guys a lot and I cant wait to come home and play with you guys, listen to Mommy and be good kids so you guys could get more toys when I get home. Love, Fred Hey Sandra, Please keep sending pictures of Joseph, really looking forward to spending some time together. Have fun at Jonathons birthday party. Love, Jerry

Jr. Dragon Corner

Jr. Dragon Joke of the Month
Q: How much does it cost for a pirate pierce his ears? A: A BUCK AN EAR!!!

ConneCt the DotS to Complete the Jr. Dragon!

Jr. Dragon worD of the month: HeaD

The HEAD, is the nautical term used for the ships bathrooms. We Sailors dont call it the bathroom, restroom, or potty. Nope! Here on the open seas, its the head!

Dragon Times news sTaff

Editor in Chief: LT Alison Derr Assistant Editor: FC2(SW) Charles Slagle Layout Editor: CTMSA Rebecca Marinacci Staff Writers: ENS Ashley Valanzola OS1(SW) Eric Peoples FC2(SW) Paulina Castro FC2(SW) Cierra Wyre EM1(SS) Joseph Seina IT2(SW) Stefani Wells BM3(SW) Meryl Vogel
Caption: Do I hear $15 for this slightly used BM1.$20, $50, $100, $130! Going once, going twice.SOLD! Sold to the gentleman in the navy blue coveralls.err.