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USS Monterey Celebrates Easter at Sea

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060418-14
4/18/2006

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW) Katherine Favell, USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS MONTEREY, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Monterey (CG 61) held Easter Sunday at sunrise on the ship's flight deck April 16 while underway in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility.

“Services like this are a testimony to the vibrant faith of service members and an example of America’s commitment to religious freedom,” said Lt. Jason Hefner, Monterey's command chaplain.

The ship’s band, ‘Gear Adrift,’ entertained attendees with contemporary spiritual music before, during and after the service.

“I was honored to be a part of the service,” said Senior Chief Fire Controlman (SW) Christopher Hammond, lead guitarist and backup vocalist for ‘Gear Adrift.’ “I think we were able to add something to make it more memorable for the crew.”

More than 50 Sailors attended, including Monterey’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Robert Oldani, and Executive Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Todd Boehm.

“I thought the ceremony was perfect,” said Operations Specialist 1st Class Ryan Griffin. “We had a beautiful sunrise, the perfect setting for the occasion and it was a wonderful way to celebrate Easter.”

One of the ceremony’s presenters, Senior Chief Gas Turbine System Technician Paul Mikovits, expressed his gratitude for the ability to practice his faith and receive spiritual guidance while underway.

“One of the things I love about the Navy is the way they foster spiritual growth among Sailors. All the chaplains, religious program specialists, the freedom to conduct worship services, bible studies and evening prayer are all hallmarks of this policy,” Mikovits said. “It is a part of our lives at sea that some people may not realize. After the mission, after the port visits, many of us enjoy quiet time for reflection and prayer.”

Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Michael Tolbert spent weeks helping plan and prepare for the ceremony.

“I was extremely happy with the turnout, particularly given the fact that at any given moment, there can be one to two thirds of the ship’s crew on watch,” he said. “It was most definitely worth the effort.”

Tolbert noted the ceremony’s ability to transcend denominational boundaries by bringing many groups together for worship and contemplation.

“Catholic, Episcopalian, Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist crew members, just to name a few, all came together to enjoy fellowship, and that is truly a wonderful thing,” Tolbert said.

The Easter sunrise service also helped Monterey Sailors maintain perspective on their lives, he said.

“Special events like this are a great way to help Sailors re-center themselves,” Tolbert said. "They can just step back from everything, take a deep breath and celebrate being alive.”

Monterey is part of the USS George Washington (CVN 73) Carrier Strike Group in “Partnership of the Americas” and is operating in the U.S. Southern Command region this spring.