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GW Returns to Norfolk Following CQ, TSTA

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060320-12
Release Date: 3/20/2006 3:26:00 PM

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jennifer Crowell, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) returned to Norfolk March 17 after successfully completing the first phase of its Tailored Ship’s Training Availability (TSTA).

TSTA is a three-part training and testing evolution designed to increase a ship’s readiness and effectiveness.

“ATG was here to ensure the crew is battle-ready and we can combat any type of damage control-related emergency safely and effectively,” said Senior Chief Electrician’s Mate (SW/AW) Andre Williams, Repair Locker 7B’s senior damage control training team (DCTT) member.

GW received the green light from the Afloat Training Group (ATG) after conducting numerous drills during the three-day inspection, including general quarters (GQ), aviation and medical drills.

Members of DCTT switched from training Sailors how to use proper techniques to evaluating how Sailors use what they have learned over the past few months.

While ATG observed the entire crew’s damage control abilities, inspectors also paid particular attention to other groups, including medical and deck department Sailors. Throughout the three days of inspections, ATG observed how well Sailors were able to work together, and how much enthusiasm each Sailor brought to the drills.

GW got underway Feb. 28 to conduct carrier qualifications off the coast of Florida for Strike Fighter Squadron 106 and Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 120. March 6-11, training pilots completed more than 600 arrested landings and "touch and gos" on GW's flight deck during carrier training qualifications.

During the at sea period, the ship also conducted several other tasks, including two replenishments at sea and a NATO Sea Sparrow missile exercise.

“Our Sailors worked very hard and performed an incredible amount of training, their accomplishments during this underway period were unprecedented,” said Capt. Garry R. White, George Washington's commanding officer. “We are proving every day that GW is ready for whatever her country asks of her.”