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NECC Participates in 2009 Multi-Agency Craft Conference

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090623-07
Release Date: 6/23/2009 3:35:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Michael R. Hinchcliffe, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) participated in the 2009 Multi-Agency Craft Conference (MACC) June 17-18 at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creak (NABLC).

MACC is designed to provide a forum for open exchange and discussion between government agencies and the maritime community about small boats and craft.

Capt. David Balk, special assistant for the commander of NECC, said several NECC forces utilize small boats to complete varying missions around the globe.

"Currently we have two primary roles for our small craft in world affairs," said Balk. "One is obviously with the smaller boats; we can get into areas where our larger vessels can't, the harbors, ports, along the coast and up the rivers, the littoral area."

Balk explained that the second role is similar to an ambassador. Because NECC deploys to countries that use vessels that run approximately 100 feet long, Sailors from Maritime Civil Affairs group provide a 34-foot patrol boat as a static display and Riverine forces use an in-water boat display consisting of the riverine command boat (RCB), the riverine patrol boat (RPB) and the riverine assault boat (RAB).

"From the initial stand up in 2006 until we got vessels and crews out the door in February 2007, it was just a phenomenally quick stand up and push to mission readiness," said Cmdr. Raul Gandara, Riverine Group 1 chief staff officer. "We want to make sure that we are using the same tactical techniques and procedures as much as we can so we can have equipment and tactical commonality within the forces that are also working within the arena."

Balk spoke during the second day of the conference about NECC forces and their small boat capabilities, missions and requirements. He emphasized the importance of routine maintenance, cost effectiveness and supply processing.

"Right now our enemy is adjusting to new tactics and new weapons systems in a matter of hours, so I've got to be able to deliver new technology and new improvements in a matter of days not years," said Balk. "With our small boats we have an immediate rapport with nations when it comes to talking Navy tactics, Navy patrol lanes and things of that nature."