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Nimitz Sailors Experience Australian Navy

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS030714-07

Release Date: 7/14/2003 9:48:00 AM

By Journalist 2nd Class Ahron Arendes, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

ABOARD USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Three USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Sailors recently had the opportunity to visit the Australian frigate HMAS Sydney (FFG 03) and experience another nation's navy during a three-day crew swap.

The Sailors were Chief Warrant Officer Kevin Lewis of the ship's Repair department, Lt. Mark Archer of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 6 and Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class (AW) Yaroslav Tsarenko, of HS-6.

During the Sailors' time aboard, they learned a great deal not only about the Australian navy but its sailors as well.

"The people were the most memorable part of the experience," said Tsarenko. "Everyone is really proud of what they do, and that reflects upon what they do on a daily basis. They were also really friendly towards me."

"I talked with my counterpart, who was a warrant in the Australian navy," said Lewis. "We had meals in the wardroom. The Australians are great conversationalists. They have a lot of the same values as we do, so we have a lot in common. I can see how we got along so well."

"The Aussies love politics and are very well-versed in American politics as well," said Archer. "On any given night in the wardroom, the familiar tune of ABC's 'Nightline' would play and most tune in to see the current events of America."

Sydney, the Adelaide-Class guided missile frigate, is a lot different from Nimitz and the Aussies live by a much different set of rules and regulations.

"Their grooming standards are much more relaxed compared to the U.S. Navy's," Archer said. "Males have the liberty to grow full beards and some have grown their hair out.

"On the ship there was a much smaller wardroom, and contrary to popular belief the officers are prohibited from consuming alcohol while underway," said Archer. "It was explained to me that the enlisted and NCOs (non-commissioned officers) were authorized two 'tins' a day. I believe this equates to about two pints, however, because of operational commitments, all alcohol is restricted until the vessel leaves 5th Fleet."

According to Archer, the Aussies have a rigorous physical training (PT) program of sit-ups, push-ups, free-weights, military presses, curls and "gassers," which are runs the length of a football field and back.

"Although they emphasize that the running is not a race, once a few healthy challenges are thrown, the jogs quickly turn to sprints," said Archer.

"Following the PT, the crew turned up the flight deck nets and enjoyed a game of handball, which is similar to ultimate Frisbee, although used with a taped roll of toilet paper vice a Frisbee," said Archer.

A visit to an Australian ship could be an enriching experience for any Sailor who gets the opportunity to take part.

"The Aussie's ship was a great experience where we were able to catch a break from the hectic schedule of carrier life," Archer said. "The esprit de corps was refreshing. I encourage everyone who has the opportunity to take advantage of a future swap."