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Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Visits Sasebo

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060429-05
Release Date: 4/29/2006 7:26:00 AM

By Journalist 3rd Class Adam R. Cole, Task Force 76 Public Affairs

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Vice Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, held several all-hands calls with Sailors of Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 in Sasebo, Japan, April 28.

During the all-hands calls, Greenert emphasized the impact that civil/military operations and humanitarian work completed by CTF 76 ships have made in the global war on terrorism.

“You may not see it on a day-to-day level, but there is tremendous change and momentum that you’re part of and contributing to,” said Greenert. “You all should be proud of the work you’re doing.”

Greenert specifically pointed to the Republic of Philippines, where in February, ships of the Forward Deployed Amphibious Ready Group conducted a medical civil action project from USS Juneau (LPD 10), USS Essex (LHD 2) and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49). The mission delivered thousands of pounds of relief supplies to victims of a mudslide in Southern Leyte Island.

Because of that effort, and another in Basilan in 2002, civility has been restored to parts of the Philippines most torn by terrorism.

“You all showed the real face of America and the U.S. Navy,” said Greenert. “Your efforts have inspired citizens of those areas to be productive citizens, rather than terrorists.”

The biggest sign of change, said Greenert, was that terrorist members were turning in weapons, and women and children were feeling safe again to walk the streets at night.

CTF 76 Sailors were appreciative to hear those encouraging words, saying that it helps keep motivation going to perform in such a demanding environment.

“It was inspiring,” said Seaman Emmanuel J. Torres, a crew member aboard Essex. “It shows that someone does notice the work we do and that it is making an impact. For me, I am motivated to keep going.”

Task Force 76 is the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force, headquartered in White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.