• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

Bonhomme Richard's ATFP Program Excels During ULTRA-S

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090328-10
Release Date: 3/28/2009 8:49:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Ryan Tabios, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- During its Unit Level Training Assessment-Sustainment Plus (ULTRA-S PLUS), March 23, the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard's (LHD 6) Anti-terrorism and Force Protection (ATFP) program received high scores; passing all 12 of its ATFP drills and scoring above 90 percent overall.

ULTRA-S PLUS is an upgrade from the usual ULTRA-S inspection that evaluates the ship's training proficiency levels conducted by Afloat Training Group (ATG) Pacific and the ship's immediate superior in command. It certifies a ship's key warfare areas, and grants extensions to a ship's certifications.

The inspection started with an extensive look into the program's administration and personnel qualifications and concluded with an assessment of its drill packages.

"On board Bonhomme Richard we perform as professionals and expect nothing but success, and that was evident during the inspection," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Joselito Sarmiento, security officer. "Everyone, from the most senior to the most junior Sailor, contributed significantly to our success. They displayed motivation and attentiveness."

Although Bonhomme Richard trained in six set drills prior to the inspection, the added six drills of ULTRA-S PLUS did not faze its crew.

"You always have to have a plan B and be prepared for the unexpected," said Sarmiento. "When you have properly trained Sailors who know their job, execution will come at ease.

"Communication, proper planning, supervision and team spirit are the factors that contributed to our success. You cannot predict terrorist attacks, but if you believe in and trust your team things will be all right," added Sarmiento.

Electronics Technician 3rd Class Milynda Washington, praised for her performance by ATG, added that regardless if it were three or six drills the watch team was ready.

"We [Ship's Self-Defense Force] were extremely prepared and ready for ATG," said Washington. "As a ship we know how important force protection is in protecting naval assets, and we set our standards high."

Washington added that the team's success was due in part to the training received from Force Protection Training Team (FPTT) members.

"My FPTT trainer [Fire Controlman 1st Class Robert Valiquette] trained us to fight like it's the real deal," said Washington. "Without his leadership and my team's motivation we would not have performed as well.

With ULTRA-S PLUS completed, Bonhomme Richard's ATFP professionals look forward to maintaining their vigilance and to a Force Protection Exercise in the summer.

"We're not going to stop here. There is always room for improvement and we will keep training our Sailors," said Sarmiento. "Our goal is to sustain our level of readiness.

For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.