NSWC PHD enables Crew of USS Kauffman to participate in Unique Training Opportunity
NAVSEA News Wire
Release Date: 4/16/2004
By Michelle Harris, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme, Public Affairs Office
Port Hueneme, Calif. - While it is not unusual for the engineers, technicians, and logisticians at Port Hueneme to provide timely "In-Service Engineering"(ISEA) support, it's not as common that their tireless efforts would result in a rare and unique training opportunity for a ship's crew. On March 10, when USS Kauffman (FFG 59) experienced a problem within its MK 75 Gun, a search of the supply system was initiated to acquire the inner cranks needed to return the gun to operational status. When it was determined that the part was not available via this means, it became apparent that Kauffman would not be able to participate in the live fire sink-exercise (SINKEX) the following week, involving Ex-Portland.
Acting on behalf of his crew, Kauffman's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. John Gelinne, sent a casualty report via email to the Fleet Technical Support Center, Atlantic. Cmdr. Gelinne appealed via FTSCLANT to NSWC PHD, Louisville Detachment, the ISEA for the MK 75 Gun, for assistance in locating an alternative source for the part, which would allow the crew to participate in the exercise. "Opportunities to lay rounds on a real target ship come around rarely during a Navy career. It would really be a training bonus for the entire crew," Cmdr. Gelinne said in his email request.
Acting swiftly, NSWC PHD personnel at the Louisville Detachment were able to locate the parts locally and immediately forwarded them to FTSCLANT for installation. On March 12, the inner crank parts were received and installed in the MK 75 gun aboard Kauffman. Upon receipt of PHD's email closing out the request, Cmdr. Gelinne replied, "Gentlemen, you are my heroes!!!"
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