Iwo Jima ESG Saves Money, Leads Atlantic Fleet in 2M Cost Avoidance
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS081211-22
Release Date: 12/11/2008 11:15:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Ships from the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) lead the Atlantic Fleet in micro-miniature (2M) repair cost avoidance for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, with a combined savings of more than $1 million.
For LHD-class ships, the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) led the way with $250,248 in cost avoidance; amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) saved $19,682; and amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) saved $38,354. The guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) saved $157,235 to lead the DDG-class, and also had the highest number of 2M repairs on board with 42.
Although not the leader of her class, the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) had the distinction of being one of the top ships overall with a cost avoidance of $68,331.
The 2M Module Test and Repair program consists of troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing faulty circuit card assemblies (CCA) and electronic modules on board ship.
"Two-M is the process or technique of repairing components on board ship, vice ordering new gear," said Ensign Charles Wood, Roosevelt's electronic maintenance officer. "This process is not limited to only CCA's. With a little initiative and technical ability, the process can be used on just about anything, as long as it doesn't violate any manufacturer's warranties."
The Iwo Jima ESG not only boasted top performers for individual ship classes, they also showcased some of the Navy's finest technicians.
Electronics Technician 2nd Class Joseph Carlisle, a Roosevelt Sailor, repaired 35 items for a cost avoidance of $149,720.
"Every time we screen a piece of equipment for 2M, we get to see the price the Navy would have paid if we were not able to repair it," said Carlisle. "I could not imagine spending the kind of money we spend for a brand new part. Therefore, I view this as if it was coming from my personal spending.
"I feel obligated to the Navy and tax payers to insure we save as much money as possible with the 2M program aboard Roosevelt."
"This is a major accomplishment for Petty Officer Carlisle and sets the bar for other smaller platforms to strive for," said Wood.
Electronics Technician 3rd Class Sean Rodgers, a 2M technician from Iwo Jima, tallied a cost avoidance figure of $99,602 with a single repair.
"Through Rodgers' hard work and many long hours, he has personally helped keep the ship and other ships in the ESG from having to send casualty reports out to the fleet," said Chief Electronics Technician Louis Wilson, Iwo Jima's 2M leading chief petty officer.
Due to budget constraints and limited resources while deployed, being self-sufficient is critical to maintaining and repairing equipment that is vital to each ship's mission. 2M repairs enhance readiness and sustainability of the many shipboard systems, especially when deployed.
"I can't say enough about dedication to 2M," said Wood. "With a little guidance, a young Sailor can make major contributions to the entire fleet. A CCA can cost thousands of dollars. A 2M technician can identify and repair a faulty component in a CCA costing just $25-50. Multiply that by as little as 20 repairs a month per ship, throughout the entire Navy, and you have major cost avoidance."
The Iwo Jima ESG is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations to conduct maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.
For more news from Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/iwoesg/.
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