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Norfolk Inspectors Give JFK Thumbs Up on Critical 3M Inspection

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS041104-06
Release Date: 11/4/2004 11:43:00 AM

From USS John F. Kennedy Public Affairs

ABOARD USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (NNS) -- USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) earned a passing grade from Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (AIRLANT) inspectors Oct. 30, after a meticulous review of the aircraft carrier's maintenance and material management, or 3M, program.

The Norfolk-based team flew aboard the ship, currently operating in the Arabian Gulf, to evaluate how effectively and efficiently the crew takes care of critical equipment, systems and facilities.

"Our equipment looks good, and our Sailors have proven they are proficient in proper 3M procedures," said Capt. Dennis FitzPatrick, ship's commanding officer. "They showed the inspectors that they have a good idea of how to conduct maintenance - and that they do it regularly, as scheduled."

During the four-day inspection, AIRLANT's team analyzed each of JFK's 17 departments' maintenance and material management systems.

Several steps make up the Navy's maintenance program, which centers around preventive maintenance. Regularly, Sailors have to conduct maintenance on equipment throughout the ship - this includes professional and lifesaving equipment. Afterward, the junior Sailors who conduct the maintenance must go through a "spot check." During this time, a supervisor comes in to ensure Sailors correctly completed the required maintenance. The process helps preserve critical, expensive equipment throughout the ship.

"Spot checks are usually stressful, because they are conducted by an officer or high-ranking enlisted member of the crew," said Dental Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Randy Swanson. "They make sure we meticulously follow each required step in the maintenance. It's a good challenge, and it's important. They check the work to ensure it was done correctly, so you don't hurt yourself, others or the equipment."

The 36-year-old carrier earned a grade of 93 percent, thanks in part to the "outstanding enthusiasm and support from the entire crew," according to Capt. Frank McCulloch, the ship's executive officer.

The air department, which includes approximately 600 Sailors, had no administrative discrepancies. Several smaller departments scored perfectly in that area, as well. Inspectors commented that engineering's electrical division was "particularly strong on spot checks - not commonly observed by the assessment team while on other ships," according to AIRLANT's report.

"This effort was made up of a lot of hard work by a lot of people all over the ship," said FitzPatrick. "It required a focused effort by each member of the crew.

"This program works on the deckplate level," added FitzPatrick. "The 3M program is in great shape, but we have to keep the press on."