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Expeditionary Sailors Train for New Warfare Pin

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS061108-23
Release Date: 11/8/2006 5:43:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jennifer R. Hudson, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

CHINA LAKE, Calif. (NNS) -- Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) Sailors continue to train for the new Expeditionary Warfare Pin during a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) Nov. 6-16 here.

The new Expeditionary Warfare pin is intended to change the expeditionary community, improving the competitiveness between Sailors for advancement and retention rates within the Navy.

“I think this is an excellent opportunity for junior Sailors to expand their horizons,” said Chief Yeoman (SW/AW) Napoleon Bryant, attached to Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron (NCWS) 5. “It is beneficial for Sailors that want to do something different and be able to acquire this new warfare pin that could assist them during advancement.”

Deployable active-duty and reserve Sailors assigned to NECC will be eligible to qualify to receive the new warfare pin.

According to Bryant, the pin allows Sailors to stay within the NECC realm of expeditionary warfare by helping them maintain the basic knowledge skill sets of NECC.

“I’m excited to be in this community right now," said Senior Chief Informations Systems Technician (SW) Nelson J. Oconer, attached to NCWS 5. "It is great to have the chance to be able to help build and design the future for our naval expeditionary Sailors.”

In January, the NECC brought Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Naval Coastal Warfare, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support functions and Seabees together under one umbrella. NECC integrates all warfighting requirements for expeditionary combat and combat support elements. This transformation allows for standardized training, manning, and equipping of Sailors who will participate in the global war on terrorism as part of the joint force. It also results in more capable, responsive and effective expeditionary Sailors.

The program requires completion of general expeditionary and unit-specific Personnel Qualifications Standard to include weapon qualifications and maintenance, field communications and expertise in setting up expeditionary camps.

“This is my second EOD community, so I am very excited to be given this opportunity,” said Yeoman 1st Class (AW) Francesca L. Sloan, administrative leading petty officer, attached to EOD Group 1. “This new warfare pin will allow me and any other Sailor to stay within the expeditionary community and that is very beneficial to us.”

Sailors assigned to expeditionary units will have one year to complete the Enlisted Expeditionary Warfare qualification and will be mandatory for Sailors E-5 and above.