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Guardian Gets Tune-Up in Singapore

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070601-26
Release Date: 6/1/2007 6:11:00 PM

By Lt j.g. Steve Peterson, USS Guardian Public Affairs

SEMBAWANG, Singapore (NNS) -- Sasebo, Japan-based minesweeper USS Guardian (MCM 5) recently completed an eight-day maintenance availability May 29, which focused on repairs and material upgrades, at Sembawang Wharf, on the northern-most portion of Singapore.

Numerous ship spaces were remodeled including the galley, mess facilities, laundry room, pilothouse, supply storerooms and the ship’s office. Additionally, maintenance contractors worked with Guardian engineers to complete repairs to one of the ship’s medium pressure air compressors.

“This was an important period of our patrol,” said Ensign Isaac Ortman, Guardian’s supply officer, who coordinated with ship repair contractors to meet Guardian’s material improvement [and] repair objectives. “Minor repairs were needed throughout the ship, and the extent of our stay in Singapore allowed us the time to really upgrade our material condition of readiness. Being a forward-deployed ship subjects us to more than the average amount of ‘normal wear and tear.’ But the work done here in Singapore will benefit the ship for years to come.”

During the port visit, Guardian Sailors worked tirelessly alongside contractors to finish all of the allocated maintenance jobs for the maintenance period.

Though each day of the Singapore visit was initially a scheduled workday, the crew’s efforts resulted in all maintenance being completed ahead of time. Non-duty personnel were granted time off for the three-day holiday weekend, giving Guardian Sailors the opportunity to see Singapore and experience the culture there.

Sailors used their liberty to visit important historical sites and museums as well as participate in numerous recreational activities available on the island. Those that saw the sites firsthand confirmed that Singapore has a rich history.

“Singapore is a beautiful country with so much to see and do,” said Quartermaster 3rd Class Julio Sanchez. “I particularly enjoyed visiting the city’s huge electronics district and also being able to stock up at the book store.”

The Guardian crew is at the midpoint of their deployment throughout Southeast Asia.

Hard work teamed with positive morale and welfare, is something that Lt. Cmdr. Steve DeMoss, Guardian commanding officer, highly values and he is proud of what his Sailors have achieved thus far in the deployment.

“My crew is working harder than ever, and I couldn’t have asked for a better first half of our spring patrol,” said Lt. Cmdr Steve DeMoss. “As we begin a round turn in our deployment, I am excited about where we stand in training and materiel condition. We still have work to accomplish, but we learn something new everyday and are constantly looking to improve upon where we stand.”

Guardian (MCM 5) with embarked Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5, Det. 51, is currently on a long-term deployment in Southeast Asia to support the U.S. 7th Fleet’s interoperability and training commitments in mine neutralization warfare and maritime operations.

Guardian and USS Patriot (MCM 7) serve under Task Force 76, based out of Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.