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Carl Vinson Undergoes First Phase of Crew Certification

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081122-19
Release Date: 11/22/2008 10:38:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristan Robertson, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) are undergoing the first phase of their crew certification this November as part of the process to bring the ship back to operational status as it enters the final phases of its refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va.

Crew certification is a process that transitions ships back to operational status after spending significant time in a shipyard environment. For Sailors aboard Carl Vinson, the process of preparing the aircraft carrier for operations at sea is a welcomed challenge.

"Getting ready for sea again involves a lot of training evolutions such as firefighting drills, egress procedures, emergency escape breathing device (EEBD) training and all components involved with general quarters," said Master Chief Engineman (SW/AW) Nick Teichs, the engineering department leading chief petty officer. "There is a heavy amount of preparation going on to ensure our crew members know what to do when we start going to sea again."

The first phase of the crew certification includes a review of the ship's training plans, schedules and thorough review of personnel qualification standards (PQS) for all hands. Inspectors also review Sailors' knowledge and aptitude in conducting zone inspections, the ship's safety program and command instructions.

For many Carl Vinson Sailors, the certification process signifies a new era for the aircraft carrier, one in which every crew member will play an important role with the ship's success.

"Certifying a large crew is a challenge for all of us, but it's preparing our Sailors for sea, and we are building confidence in our ability to work as one cohesive unit," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (AW/SW) Eugene Williams. "As we complete each phase, we will continue to demonstrate our commitment to this ship and ensure that Carl Vinson is ready to go to sea once again."

Carl Vinson is undergoing its scheduled refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard. The RCOH is an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year life cycle.

During RCOH Carl Vinson's nuclear fuel will be replenished and the ship's services and infrastructure will be upgraded to make her the most state-of-the-art aircraft carrier in the fleet and prepare for another 25 years or more of service.

For more news from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn70/.