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Sea Trials a Success for Normandy

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090622-06
Release Date: 6/22/2009 2:52:00 PM

By Ensign Adam R. Cole, Normandy Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) returned to Naval Station Norfolk after completing sea trials June 9-11.

This underway was Normandy's first since the ship entered an Extended Dry-docking Selected Restricted Availability (EDSRA) at BAE Systems Shipyard in Norfolk in December 2008.

Normandy, at sea for the first time in more than eight months, tested her 5-inch guns, newly-installed Block 1B Close-In Weapons System, anchor equipment, and virtually all of her electronics and engineering systems.

Although the sea trials identified various areas and equipment that need to be worked on upon her return to homeport, Normandy proved capable of going to sea and performing air defense missions.

"It was another excellent performance by the Normandy crew. Normandy Sailors put in a lot of preparation to make this underway possible and did a lot to ensure safe navigation throughout the underway," said Capt. Jeffrey T. Griffin, Normandy commanding officer. "I give great credit to the engineers and the combat systems technicians for their tireless work to keep the engines and systems operational throughout the underway."

Normandy entered BAE Systems Shipyard on Dec. 4, 2008, as part of the cruiser modernization program. The major focus of the availability was the hull, mechanical and engineering portion of the cruiser modernization program. The second phase of the modernization program, that will focus on combat systems, is scheduled for 2013.

The engineering department's equipment saw the most change of the EDSRA. With the installation of integrated ship controls, all engineering consoles are now fully digital. Watchstanders can control main engines and see plant status with a click of a mouse.

"In terms of convenience and control, it's a lot better," said Gas Turbine (Mechanical) 2nd Class (SW) Dennis A. Motley.

Motley was also impressed with the alert system, which helps the watchstander verify that he or she has chosen the correct procedures.

Leading up to sea trials, engineers put in long hours to get ready for a light off assessment (LOA). LOA was conducted by Commander, Carrier Strike Group 8, with assistance from Afloat Training Group (ATG) Atlantic, and verified that each engineering system is functional. The ship's engineering department conducted a series of checks and a main space fire drill as part of the assessment.

Normandy was ready to light off on schedule, and ATG inspectors commented that it was one of the best inspections on the waterfront.

Watchstanders credited the ship's success on teamwork and dedication. Engineering department Sailors worked 15-plus hour days for six to seven days a week since February.

"Normandy hit a home run on inspection day, primarily due to the preparation that was involved in this inspection. ATG inspectors commented on that preparation and great team spirit," said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Faust, Normandy chief engineer. "A big thank you must be extended to family members of these Sailors who supported our efforts."