By Danielle Lofton, Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center Public Affairs 

Nov. 20, 2024 

NORFOLK Va. – Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center showcased its critical role in naval readiness after providing crucial technical support to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. The strike group, which includes USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), USS Mahan (DDG 72), USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), USS Mitscher (DDG 57), and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), received comprehensive maintenance assistance from MARMC, allowing it to depart for training on time from Naval Station Norfolk. 

While supporting the CSG, MARMC simultaneously extended its expertise to several other ships, providing Fleet Technical Assists to USS San Antonio (LPD 17), USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), and USS Normandy (CG 60). In total, MARMC enabled 10 warships to depart on-schedule, fully mission capable. 

“We are proud to work alongside our Fleet and our industry partners to deliver results and demonstrate MARMC’s commitment to ensuring our warships are ready to project power and uphold the U.S. Navy’s standing as the world’s premier fighting force,” said Capt. Jay Young, MARMC commanding officer. “This success highlights the capabilities of our team and our ability to provide simultaneous, high-priority support to multiple ships, getting them back to sea in record time.” 

Preparing a Carrier Strike Group (CSG) for deployment is no small task. Behind the scenes, Regional Maintenance Centers (RMCs) play a vital role in ensuring that everything from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier to the propulsion systems of the escort ships is in optimal condition to meet the demands of modern naval warfare. 

“The preparation for each group of ships is unique,” said Maintenance Operations Director Riccardo Cutruzzula. “Each ship’s schedule and maintenance need is different, and the maintenance team must be flexible. A continual assessment approach is taken based on the ship’s current material condition. Ultimate success is driven by identifying the potential problems before it becomes critical so there is adequate time to repair and address.” 

While the immediate task of preparing for deployment is critical, RMCs also play a long-term role in shaping the Navy’s future readiness. Maintenance teams use real-time data, lessons learned from previous deployments, and predictive analysis to ensure that each ship remains ready for future missions. 

In her 2024 Navigation Plan, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Lisa Franchetti emphasized the importance of readying our platforms. This strategic guidance highlights CNO’s focus on readiness and long-term advantage with a specific focus on workforce growth and development. Expanding the fleet maintenance workforce provides the opportunity to better address both routine and emergent needs ensuring that the Fleet is always prepared for a rapidly changing global security environment. 

CSGs are among the Navy’s most formidable assets, and it is the dedication, technical capability and expertise of RMCs that ensures ships are mission ready. Comprised of skilled technicians, engineers, and military and civilian professionals, MARMC plays a crucial role in maintaining these ships’ battle-readiness, putting more ready players on the field that are equipped and capable of projecting power across the globe, whenever and wherever they are needed. 

From SECNAV Public Affairs, 19 November 2024 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro highlighted the need for bipartisanship by announcing the sponsors of the future Constellation-class multi-mission guided-missile frigate USS Congress (FFG 63) will be four members of Congress: Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Reps. Betty McCollum (D-Minnesota) and Jen Kiggans (R-Virginia). 

Del Toro made the announcement during a reception amongst members of Congress and local civic leaders at the Dirksen Senate Office Building, in Washington DC, on Nov. 19. 

“It is in the spirit of bipartisanship that I am honored to announce the sponsors of the future USS Congress (FFG 63) represent both institutions of Congress and both major political parties,” said Del Toro. “There is no one better than Senator Baldwin, Senator Ernst, Representative McCollum, and Representative Kiggans to connect Congress with the highly capable frigate that will bear its name.” 

Sponsors are selected by the Secretary of the Navy and hold a unique role by maintaining a lifelong relationship with the ship and crew. Senator Ernst was previously invited to serve as sponsor by 77th Secretary of the Navy, Kenneth Braithwaite. The additional co-sponsors added by Secretary Del Toro enable the ship to be represented by sponsors from both congressional institutions. 

“We honor the institution that has been at the heart of our Democracy,” said Senator Ernst. “I am humbled by the responsibility of standing as her sponsor, not just for the men and women who will serve on board, but for the country we are sworn to protect.” 

Senator Tammy Baldwin, from Wisconsin, joined Secretary Del Toro for the announcement. 

“I am truly honored to serve as one of the sponsors of the future USS Congress alongside a bipartisan group of my colleagues,” said Senator Baldwin. “I take great pride in representing Wisconsin’s shipbuilding industry in Washington because our workers have helped sustain America’s security for generations, boasting a successful history of building ships for our nation’s defense. The USS Congress will play a critical role in continuing that tradition. Wherever the USS Congress takes our flag, she will be a symbol of America’s strengths – strength of our brave service men and women who will assume command of the ship, but also the hard-working Wisconsinites that will make the USS Congress a reality.” 

Providing remarks after Senator Baldwin, Representative McCollum shared her thoughts on the distinction of being named a sponsor alongside her fellow members of Congress. 

“It is my honor to be asked alongside with three colleagues to serve as ship sponsor for the new USS Congress,” said Representative McCollum. “The USS Congress name is a long and proud lineage including one of the six original frigates of the US Navy.” 

Representative Jen Kiggans, a Navy veteran, also participated in the announcement and highlighted the honor and meaning behind the naming of the ship. 

“It is truly a privilege to be selected as a sponsor of the USS Congress,” said Representative Kiggans. “This ship, named in honor of one of the original six frigates of the U.S. Navy, will ensure our sailors can continue to fulfill their commitments to our citizens, our nation, and freedom around the globe.” 

The U.S. Navy’s second Constellation-class frigate FFG 63, was named USS Congress by the 77th Secretary of the Navy Kenneth Braithwaite. The name honors the first six heavy frigates of the U.S. Navy. 

The ship naming honors the rich history and legacy of the Navy. Congress was among the six original frigates authorized by Congress in the Naval Act of 1794, which established the U.S. Navy as an agile, lethal and ready force and cemented the enduring partnership between the sea service and our nation’s elected legislative officials. 

The Constellation-class guided-missile frigate represents the Navy’s next generation small surface combatant. This ship class will be an agile, multi-mission warship, capable of operations in both blue-water and littoral environments, providing increased combat-credible forward presence that provides a military advantage at sea. 

The Constellation-class will have multi-mission capability to conduct air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations. 

From the U.S. Department of Defense, Nov. 20, 2024 

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced today that the president has made the following nominations: 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Christopher D. Alexander for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Alexander is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Nine, San Diego, California. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Bradley J. Andros for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Andros is currently serving as commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, Virginia Beach, Virginia. 

Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Sean R. Bailey for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Bailey is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Eight, Norfolk, Virginia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Brian H. Bennett for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Bennett is currently serving as deputy director, Special Operations and Counter Terrorism, J-3, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Adan G. Cruz for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Cruz is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Three, Bremerton, Washington. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) John E. Dougherty IV for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Dougherty is currently serving as commander, Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division; and chief engineer, Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Thomas M. Henderschedt for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Henderschedt is currently serving as director of Integration, Associate Directorate of Military Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency, Washington, D.C. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Christopher A. Kijek for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Kijek is currently serving as director, Learning to Action Board, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Max G. McCoy Jr. for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. McCoy is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Four, Norfolk, Virginia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Thomas P. Moninger for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Moninger is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group Twelve, Norfolk, Virginia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Martin J. Muckian for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Muckian is currently serving as commander, Submarine Group Two, Norfolk, Virginia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Gregory D. Newkirk for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Newkirk is currently serving as commander, Task Force Seven Zero; and commander, Carrier Strike Group Five, Yokosuka, Japan. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Jonathan E. Rucker for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Rucker is currently serving as program executive officer, Attack Submarines, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Mark A. Schafer for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Schafer is currently serving as commander, Special Operations Command South, U.S. Southern Command, Doral, Florida. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Nicholas R. Tilbrook for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Tilbrook is currently serving as commander, Submarine Group Nine, Silverdale, Washington. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Douglas L. Williams for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Williams is currently serving as director for Test, Missile Defense Agency, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Robert E. Wirth for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Wirth is currently serving as commander, Submarine Group Ten, Kings Bay, Georgia. 
 
Navy Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael S. Wosje for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Wosje is currently serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group One, San Diego, California. 

From U.S. Coast Guard District Eleven, Nov. 19, 2024 

SAN DIEGO — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) offloaded more than 29,000 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated value of $335.8 million, Tuesday in San Diego.   

The offload is a result of eleven separate suspected drug smuggling vessel interdictions or events off the coasts of Mexico and Central and South America in September and October.  

“I would put this crew on any mission, anywhere, at any time,” said Capt. James O’Mara, commanding officer, Coast Guard Cutter Munro. “They executed everything asked of them with incredible teamwork and persistence, and we are proud of the results. Hats off to all our international and interagency partners – we absolutely cannot do this mission without them. For our families and loved ones back home: your support keeps us going out there. It takes everyone’s head in the game to make these interdictions happen, and we are grateful you have our backs on the home front as we patrol the high seas and do our part to prevent dangerous narcotics from hitting cities around the globe.”  

 Multiple U.S. agencies, including the Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security, collaborate in the effort to combat transnational organized crime. The Coast Guard, Navy, Customs and Border Protection, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with allied and international partner agencies, all play a role in counter-narcotic operations. The fight against drug cartels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean requires unity of effort in all phases, from detection and monitoring to interdictions and criminal prosecutions.   

“Our partnerships and our collective abilities are vital to the security and prosperity of the hemisphere,” said Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella, commander, Coast Guard District Eleven. “The Eastern Pacific is a challenging environment – both operationally and logistically.  The transit zone is a vast area of ocean to cover, far from home. Despite the challenges, the success of the Munro’s crew highlights the importance of what we do on the high seas.”   

The fight against drug cartels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean requires unity of effort in all phases, from detection, monitoring and interdictions to criminal prosecutions by international partners and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in districts across the nation. The law enforcement phase of counter-smuggling operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean is conducted under the authority of Coast Guard District Eleven, headquartered in Alameda, California. The interdictions, including the actual boardings, are led and conducted by members of the U.S. Coast Guard.  

These interdictions relate to Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) designated investigations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.  

The Munro is the sixth Legend Class National Security Cutter, and is homeported in Alameda, California. The ship/s crew can operate in the most demanding open ocean environments, including the hazardous fisheries of the North Pacific Ocean and the vast approaches of the Southern Pacific Ocean, where significant narcotics trafficking occurs.   

Crewmembers of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) work on the flight deck of the cutter during the contraband offload in San Diego, Nov. 19, 2024. The Munro crew members interdicted the narcotics in the Eastern Pacific during counter-narcotic patrols, seizing 29,000 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated wholesale value of $335.8 million. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Richard Uranga) 

From Textron Systems, Nov. 18, 2024 

HUNT Valley, Md., November 18, 2024 – Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today that it has been awarded a task order valued at up to $47 million by the U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) to provide COCO UAS services to three Independence-class Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) deploying to 5th Fleet. This award follows a 2023 contract to provide UAS support to LCSs, bringing the total number of U.S. Navy ships supported by the Aerosonde UAS to 10. 

Textron Systems will deploy its Aerosonde UAS and skilled personnel to provide mission overwatch and extended range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) services with enhanced mission payloads as seen aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB) 4 and ESB 5, as well as two DDG-class ships and three LCSs. In December 2023, the Aerosonde UAS took its inaugural operational flight from its first LCS, the LCS 28 USS Savannah. 

“Textron Systems has delivered COCO services with our Aerosonde UAS for over a decade, demonstrating the flexibility and value a model like this brings to the services,” said David Phillips, Senior Vice President Air, Land and Sea Systems. “Because we are managing the full life cycle of the system, including technology integration, human factors, spares and repairs, employing the Aerosonde UAS enables the Navy customer to focus solely on their mission. We extend the customer’s capabilities across the mission packages of each ship reliably and quickly.” 

The Aerosonde UAS offers multi-mission capability built upon a family of systems which have amassed over 700,000 flight hours over more than 10 years. The system is equipped for multiple payload configurations with both vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and fixed-wing options. 

From SECNAV Public Affairs, Nov. 18, 2024 

ARLINGTON, Va. – Acting Under Secretary of the Navy Tom Mancinelli visited Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF) in Bremerton, Washington, Nov. 18, where he engaged with shipyard leadership, employees, and Sailors, emphasizing the critical role the Navy’s public shipyards have in maintaining maritime readiness. 

Mancinelli’s visit focused on the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), a long-term effort to modernize the Navy’s four public shipyards, and also included a tour of the USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23), a Seawolf-class submarine currently undergoing maintenance. 

During his visit, Mancinelli met with Capt. JD Crinklaw, PSNS & IMF commander, and other senior leaders to discuss shipyard operations, infrastructure updates, and challenges.  They also discussed programmatic improvements, technical innovations, and Quality of Service initiatives.  As the Navy’s largest public shipyard, and the only shipyard capable of servicing Nimitz-class carriers on the West Coast, PSNS & IMF is essential to help ensure fleet readiness. 

“We must continue to build, maintain, and modernize ships, submarines and aircraft to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Mancinelli. “What you do here matters deeply to the Navy and to our nation’s security.  Your work is vital to defending our country and our way of life.” 

Mancinelli toured Dry Docks 3, 5, and 6, where he observed seismic upgrades and discussed planned improvements under SIOP. 

“The Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan is a once-in-a-century investment that reflects the Department of Navy’s commitment to ensuring our fleet remains ready for future challenges,” said Mancinelli.  “These upgrades are critical to the overall strength of the Navy and are critical to our effort to keep our fleet ready.”    

SIOP is an investment plan at the Navy’s four public shipyards to meet nuclear fleet maintenance requirements and improve Navy maintenance capabilities by expanding shipyard capacity, optimizing shipyard configuration, creating resilient infrastructure, and modernizing industrial plant equipment. SIOP upgrades enable shipyard to improve efficiency and reduce the amount of time vessels spend in a maintenance period. 

The Acting Under Secretary also visited the USS Jimmy Carter, the last and most advanced of the Seawolf-class attack submarines.  The submarine features a unique 100-foot hull extension, known as the multi-mission platform, which enables it to carry advanced technology and enhanced warfighting capabilities. 

On board, Mancinelli met with the submarine’s leadership and crew, toured the vessel, and dined with Sailors while learning more about the submarine’s capabilities. 

“It is always inspiring to meet the extraordinary Sailors who bring our platforms to life,” said Mancinelli.  “The crew of the Jimmy Carter exemplifies the innovation, dedication, and selflessness that define our Navy.  I have no doubt they will continue to do great things for our nation.” 

Throughout his visit, Mancinelli reinforced maritime statecraft and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro’s priorities:  strengthening maritime dominance, building a culture of warfighting excellence, and enhancing strategic partnerships. 

“Our shipyard workers here at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard directly support the strength and readiness of the fleet,” said Mancinelli.  “Your dedication and hard work ensure that our nation maintains the strongest Navy in the world.  Thank you for your contributions to the security of our nation.” 

The visit marked Mancielli’s first trip to the Pacific Northwest, underscoring the Navy’s focus on maintaining a ready and modern fleet capable of meeting global and strategic challenges. 

U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area, Nov. 19, 2024 

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Seneca (WMEC 906) returned to their home port of Portsmouth, Oct. 30, following a 61-day counter-drug patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. 

During the deployment, Seneca’s crew conducted law enforcement operations on the high seas to disrupt illegal narcotics smuggling. 

Patrolling in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South’s (JIATF-S) counter-drug mission, Seneca worked to counter illicit maritime activities, strengthen partner nation ties and facilitate the safety of life at sea. While deployed in the Coast Guard Eleventh District area of operations, Seneca’s crew worked alongside an embarked aviation unit from the Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron and law enforcement detachment (LEDET) personnel from the Tactical Law Enforcement Team – South (TACLET-S). 

While at sea, Seneca’s crew provided assistance during a Costa Rican forces interdiction of a vessel carrying illegal drugs. The joint interdiction prevented approximately 3,376 pounds of marijuana, worth an estimated street-value of over $3.2 million, from illicit distribution. 
 
This interdiction displayed how U.S. Coast Guard units work effectively with partner nations to combat illicit transnational activities. While on patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, Seneca also operated alongside Coast Guard Cutters Munro (WMSL 755), Hamilton (WMSL 753), Vigorous (WMEC 627) and U.S. Navy Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS St. Louis (LCS 19). 

“Our deployment is representative of the combined efforts of U.S. and allied military units from a coalition of partners working together to deny drug trafficking organizations access to maritime smuggling routes,” said Cmdr. Lee Jones, commanding officer of Seneca.  “The U.S. Coast Guard’s ability to forge strong and lasting international partnerships that further the national interest is what makes our service such a unique instrument of national security.  I am proud of the hard work, resiliency, and dedication to duty exhibited by the crew of Seneca.” 

Detecting and interdicting illicit drug traffickers on the high seas involves significant interagency and international coordination. JIATF-S based in Key West, Florida conducts the detection and monitoring of aerial and maritime transit of illegal drugs. Support from TACLET-S, which is based in Miami, improves mission capability.  

Seneca is a 270-foot, Famous-class medium endurance cutter. Commissioned in 1987, the cutter has called Portsmouth home for the past four years. The cutter’s primary missions are counter-drug and migrant interdiction operations, enforcement of laws and treaties, and search and rescue in support of U.S. Coast Guard operations throughout the Western Hemisphere.  

For information on how to join the U.S. Coast Guard, visit GoCoastGuard.com to learn about active duty, reserve, officer and enlisted opportunities. Information on how to apply to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy can be found here.  

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. — Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352 circumnavigated the globe aboard a KC-130J Super Hercules. The flight began and ended at the squadron’s home base of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, and involved 11 strategic stops across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific regions. 
 
The primary mission of the VMGR-352 “Raiders” was to deliver equipment and Marines to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing squadrons deployed to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. The 10 pilots and crewmembers that participated enhanced their proficiency and earned critical qualifications through long-distance flights, honing their skills in navigation and logistical operations over extended ranges and varied conditions. 
 
“Our global flight showcased the capability of the KC-130J to extend the operational reach of Third MAW,” said Lt. Col. Mark Bock, commanding officer of VMGR-352. “More importantly, the operation demonstrated the readiness and skill of the Marines who fix and fly our aircraft.” 
 
Headquartered at Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, CJTF-HOA is the only enduring U.S. military presence in Africa, tasked to promote regional stability, build partner nation military capacity, and protect U.S. and partner interests. A detachment from VMGR-352 has been deployed to Camp Lemonnier since May 2024 providing air-to-air refueling, combat assault transport, and air drop capability to CJTF-HOA and other partners in the region. 
 
“CJTF-HOA is made up of various units throughout the joint force,” said U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Nathan Fluker, KC-130J Detachment OIC at Camp Lemonnier. “The capabilities Third MAW brings are unique and play a vital role in crisis response as well as supporting partner nations.” 
 
The mission spotlighted the versatility of the Marine Corps’ KC-130J Super Hercules. With a range exceeding 3,500 nautical miles and a 57,500-pound fuel offload capacity using wing and external tanks, “hercs” excel in long-distance logistics and refueling of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, on the ground and in the air. The KC-130J’s ability to carry up to 92 troops while also serving as a flying gas station and cargo bay made it ideal for delivering Marines and equipment to Camp Lemonnier. Its multi-role nature, capable of tactical transport, air delivery, and air-to-air refueling, underscores its value in supporting diverse missions across the globe. 
 
“The flight in support of deployed units enabled mission success by delivering required bulky supply parts that would have taken weeks to ship by other means,” Fluker said. 
 
The flight path to Djibouti comprised stops in the Indo-Pacific region, among them Wake Island, Guam, Singapore, and Diego Garcia. The return to Miramar included stops in Qatar, Greece, England, and Maine. 
 
These stops were not only logistically necessary, ensuring refueling and resupply needed to traverse vast distances, but also strategically impactful, showcasing the Marine Corps’ ability to operate seamlessly across different continents and strengthen relationships with partner nations. 
 
“Disparate stops require us to comply with different national rules and regulations and build relationships,” Bock said. “This experience and those relationships make our squadron better prepared to operate globally.” 
 
VMGR-352’s successful global flight underscores the vital role of Marine Corps aviation in supporting U.S. operations across multiple theaters. As both a deliberate mission and a training opportunity, the Raiders increased their proficiency and global deployment readiness. 
 
“Marines are ready to win in any clime or place, and the Raiders of VMGR-352 are no exception,” Bock said. “It’s an honor to be leading this team.” 

From the U.S. Department of Defense, Nov. 19, 2024 

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced today that the president has made the following nominations: 

Marine Corps Col. Timothy S. Brady Jr. for appointment to the grade of brigadier general.  Brady is currently serving as assistant chief of staff, G-3, Marine Forces Pacific, Camp H. M. Smith, Hawaii. 

Marine Corps Col. Dustin J. Byrum for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Byrum is currently serving as executive assistant to the deputy commandant, Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 

Marine Corps Col. Henry Dolberry Jr. for appointment to the grade of brigadier general.  Dolberry is currently serving as chief of staff, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Okinawa, Japan. 

Marine Corps Col. Lauren S. Edwards for appointment to the grade of brigadier general.  Edwards is currently serving as senior military advisor, Office of the Secretary of the Navy, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 

Marine Corps Col. Christopher M. Haar for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Haar is currently serving as executive assistant to the deputy commandant, Installations and Logistics Department, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 

Marine Corps Col. Sean P. Hoewing for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hoewing is currently serving as director, Air Combat Element, Capabilities Development Directorate, Combat Development and Integration, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia. 

Marine Corps Col. Ryan M. Hoyle for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hoyle is currently serving as assistant chief of staff, G-3, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. 

Marine Corps Col. David C. Hyman for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hyman is currently serving as branch head, Manpower Management Officer Assignments, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia. 

Marine Corps Col. Robert T. Meade for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Meade is currently serving as military assistant to the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. 

Marine Corps Col. Joel F. Schmidt for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Schmidt is currently serving as executive assistant to the deputy commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia. 

Marine Corps Col. Jeremy S. Winters for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Winters is currently serving as assistant chief of staff, Joint Force Headquarters, U.S. Cyber Command, Fort Meade, Maryland. 

From HII, Nov. 19, 2024 

NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Nov. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HII (NYSE: HII) announced today that its Newport News Shipbuilding division has successfully transferred the mid-body hull section of Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier Enterprise (CVN 80), allowing the shipyard to begin the concurrent assembly of two Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers in the same dry dock. 

The evolution began Thursday, Oct. 31 with the controlled process of slowly filling the dry dock with more than 100 million gallons of water, marking the first time CVN 80 has been floated. It was then transferred to the west end of the dry dock, where construction on the ship will continue.   

Early next year, the shipyard expects to commence assembling Doris Miller (CVN 81) in the east end of the dry dock, marking a historic first that two Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers will be under construction in the dry dock at the same time. The dual construction of Enterprise (CVN 80) and Doris Miller (CVN 81) is enabled by the successful implementation of the CVN 80/81 two-ship contract modification awarded in 2019 and modifications made to the dry dock by NNS with investment by HII and the U.S. Navy. 

Photos and a video accompany this release are available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-moves-enterprise-cvn-80-for-first-time-enabling-construction-of-two-aircraft-carriers-at-once/. 

“It is only fitting for this Enterprise, CVN 80, to be part of a historic first at NNS, considering the previous Enterprise, CVN 65, was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, proudly built here at the shipyard,” said Les Smith, NNS vice president Enterprise (CVN 80), Doris Miller (CVN 81) and future aircraft carrier programs. “Thousands of dedicated shipbuilders are working with urgency on these aircraft carriers that we know will play a vital role in the Navy’s fleet.” 

NNS is the only shipyard capable of designing, building and refueling nuclear-powered aircraft carriers for the Navy. Enterprise is the first aircraft carrier designed digitally and built digitally using visual work instructions on laptops and tablets rather than paper drawings.