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TARP Representative Contributes to Iwo Jima Readiness

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090215-04
Release Date: 2/15/2009 7:10:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines perform nearly all shipboard functions and tasks during deployments; however, some larger ships have embarked civilians who provide critical support and services to the Navy and Marine Corps team.

Lawrence Wemette, a civilian aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), serves as a technical assistance repairable processing (TARP) representative.

"My primary job aboard the Iwo Jima is to provide on-the-job training and assistance in proper depot level repairable (DLR) processing in Electronic Retrograde Management System and packaging procedures," said Wemette. "The purpose of having a TARP representative embark with the ship is to ensure an adequate level of training and familiarity with DLR is present, as well as providing continuity in a rapid turnover position."

A Navy Inventory Control Point (NAVICP) TARP representative normally deploys with carrier strike groups and amphibious readiness groups (ARG) during deployments. The representatives are also stationed around the world to support local and short-term customers.

"During deployments, TARP representatives work directly with storekeepers in the ship's aviation supply division," continued Wemette. "They also provide assistance to Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department, departmental repair parts petty officers, and Marines in the embarked Air Combat Element (ACE) in the processing and packaging of DLRs and Marine Secondary Repairable's through the Advanced Traceable and Control network. TARP personnel allow the NAVICP to ensure that the items are quickly, properly and reliably returned to the proper retail or wholesale destination."

Wemette's contributions are appreciated by the Sailors and Marines from Iwo Jima's aviation supply division.

"It's been beneficial having Mr. Wemette aboard," said Cpl. Daniel Weber, from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit ACE. "He has assisted with the preparation and the shipment of 726 DLRs, totaling more than $38 million in value. He also brings us a vast knowledge of the aviation supply field, which benefits us all."

Iwo Jima deployed as part of the Iwo Jima ARG supporting maritime security operations (MSO) in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of operations. MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements 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/.