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Boxer Takes on Harriers for JASEX Success

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS050815-03
Release Date: 8/15/2005 8:08:00 AM

By Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class D. Arthur Jones and Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Christopher Elmini, USS Boxer Public Affairs

ABOARD USS BOXER (NNS) -- The sound of five AV-8B Harrier IIs shook the sky as jets landed on USS Boxer (LHD 4) Aug. 2 as the 844-foot long amphibious assault ship departed Okinawa, Japan.

The 1st Marine Air Wing (MAW) Harriers, known for their uniqueness as Vertical/Short Take-off and Landing (VSTOL) aircraft, embarked aboard Boxer in preparation for the third annual Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX).

JASEX focuses on integrated joint training among U.S. military forces, enabling real-world proficiency in detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, and on land, in response to a range of mission areas. This type of training provides a unique opportunity for these forces to work together in a maritime environment and to enhance operational proficiency.

Eighty-seven Marines from 1st MAW, including pilots and maintenance crews, joined more than 1,200 Sailors aboard Boxer for the exercise. This training emphasizes U.S. support for stability throughout the Asian-Pacific region.

JASEX will be the third major exercise Boxer has participated in since it began its deployment April 29. Boxer previously participated in exercises with Malaysia during exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) and with Australia in exercise Talisman Saber 2005.

“This exercise is a unique opportunity for many of the crew on board Boxer,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Steve Newton. “Being able to participate in three different exercises in one deployment doesn’t happen often. It is a lot of work, but the end results are important to our Navy and our country.”

JASEX will be the first opportunity for Boxer to conduct AV-8B Harrier II operations since deploying.

“This is a great opportunity for us to operate on an amphibious platform,” said Marine Staff Sgt. Robert Lee. “This exercise provides us a great venue for preparing and maintaining our aircraft while at the same time integrating with other forces in a combined environment.”

During the seven–day exercise, Boxer, along with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Strike Group, the U.S. Air Force’s 18th Wing, 5th Air Force and 1st MAW, will conduct joint training combining carrier and amphibious operations.

“Boxer can handle many different types of aircraft,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Jerald Kanwischer. “Having the Harriers on board is a busy time for our flight deck crew. The flight deck is a very demanding environment, with a lot of moving parts. The flight deck crew has to stay vigilant and keep their heads on a swivel to maintain a safe flight deck. Having the Marines onboard for JASEX will prove to be a great experience.”

“Any time we are able to work alongside of our nation’s other forces, we are able to grow as a Navy and as a military,” said Cmdr. Mark Volpe, Boxer’s operations officer. “JASEX will provide us the chance to showcase our ability to function as part of a joint task force.”

Boxer is the fourth of seven ships in the Wasp class of large deck amphibious assault ships and is capable of performing a multitude of missions, including transporting and operating with Harriers in support of national interests. Boxer is homeported out of San Diego and is commanded by Capt. Thomas J. Culora.