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Boxer Arms for Gulf

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS061003-27
Release Date: 10/3/2006 3:45:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James F. Bartels, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Boxer (LHD 4), the flagship for the Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group (BOXESG), uploaded its defensive weapons Sept. 27-28 to prepare for its arrival into the Persian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism.

The two-day evolution involved several divisions and many Sailors working together to ensure the weapons upload was completed safely.

“The members of our crew are dedicated professionals,” said Lt. Cmdr. Tommy Liveoak, Boxer’s weapons officer. “There is always danger when working with ordnance, but the high level of training our Sailors receive allows us to pull these evolutions off without incident.”

Damage controlmen were on hand to assist if a mishap were to occur and ensure that it would be contained quickly and efficiently. Aviation ordnancemen transported missiles and ammunition from storage lockers to various loading sites.

“We are about to enter a part of the world that can be very dangerous,” said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/SW) Jacques Beaver, Boxer’s flight deck ordnance chief. “We must be flexible and prepared to defend ourselves from any threats.”

Boxer has been preparing for the weapons upload for two months by completing required maintenance and electronic pre-checks. Checks ensure that the ship’s missile and launching systems are up to standard and safe to load with live ordnance.

“It has taken a lot of hard work for our people to get this done,” said Chief Fire Controlman (SW) William Lewis, combat systems, fire control division’s leading chief petty officer. “You cannot measure the importance of having these defenses guarding the lives of the Sailors and Marines in this strike group.”

BOXESG is comprised of Boxer, USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), USS Dubuque (LPD 8), USS Comstock (LSD 45), USS Benfold (DDG 65) and USS Howard (DDG 83). The strike group also includes Amphibious Squadron 5, the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WHEC 726) and Canadian Frigate HMCS Ottawa (FFH 341).