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AGs Play Essential Role in BHR ARG Amphibious Operations

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091201-02
Release Date: 12/1/2009 6:57:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eva-Marie Ramsaran, Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Amphibious Ready Group's (ARG) aerographer's mates (AG) are essential players during mission planning for amphibious operations.

A team of 12 AGs stationed aboard USS Bonhomme Richard analyze everything from air pressure and humidity to wind speed and sea state for ready group units currently supporting maritime security operations in 5th Fleet's Area of Responsibility.

"We play a huge part in safety," says Aerographer's Mate 1st Class Justin Coryell, leading petty officer of the AG division. "Dust and haze can impact our operations in the Gulf."

Two hours prior to flying, fixed-wing and helicopter pilots rely on AGs to provide current information on lightening, turbulence and icing conditions.

"The pilots are well-informed of sky conditions, wind conditions and any weather-related restrictions," says Coryell.

Landing craft operators rely on oceanographic data provided by AGs when planning ship-to-shore movements. The ARG has several types of displacement and non-displacement vessels including the Landing Craft Utility; Lighter, Amphibious Cargo Type V; and Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC).

LCAC operations, which allow the ARG to transport Marines, equipment and relief supplies to 70 percent of the world's beaches, are limited in adverse sea conditions.

Oceanographic data, including wave heights and tidal ranges, is crucial to the development of feasible amphibious launch and recovery plans.

"After analyzing weather charts and determining that conditions are right for a landing during amphibious operations, we relay the information to the ship which prepares personnel for impacts to operations," says Aerographer's Mate 2nd Class Amber Estrada.

During nine months of school, AGs learn to use different devices such as handheld anemometers and balloons that test wind speed and determine air pressure and temperature.

"The ship has to know what's going on outside to complete their mission," says Coryell. "If they don't get clearance from weather then plans must change."

In addition to Bonhomme Richard, the ARG consists of the command element, Commander, Amphibious Squadron 7; ships USS Cleveland (LPD 7) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47); Tactical Air Control Squadron 12, Det. 1; Helicopter Sea Combat 23, Det. 3; Assault Craft Unit 1, Det. B; Assault Craft Unit 5, Det. F; Beachmaster Unit 1, Det. B; and Fleet Surgical Team 9.