Norfolk Naval Shipyard Completes USS Kearsarge Availability Early
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS091203-13
Release Date: 12/3/2009 4:28:00 PM
From Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs
NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) returned USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) to the fleet one day early Nov. 18, after completing a 10-month Docking Phased Maintenance Availability (DPMA).
This was one of the largest amphibious assault ship work packages performed at NNSY in the last 10 years, according to Bobby Watkins, project superintendent. The early completion resulted from a great deal of teamwork by all the shipyard shops, the Norfolk Ship Support Activity, ship's force and the contractor.
The project team replaced six sections of shafts, removed the port rudder for bearing repairs and installed two new propellers. Work also included boiler inspections and repairs; valve repairs; the installation of a low pressure turbine rotor, a new boat davit and stern flap; and the replacement of old bunks and lockers.
The team also performed underwater hull and freeboard blasting and preservation as well as elevator and stern gate work. In addition, flight deck non-skid, a fuel-oil compensating system, and several electronic and communications components were installed.
"It was a successful and demanding period in the yard, but the ship and crew are better for it. The shipyard employees did a great job in partnering with our Sailors to get us back to sea, and now the rest is up to us," said Kearsarge Commanding Officer Capt. Walter Towns.
Commissioned in 1993, USS Kearsarge carries U.S. Marines and helicopters and has a ship's force of more than 1,000 Sailors.
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