NECC Participates in NAVEXFOR 2011
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS110318-23
3/18/2011
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael R. Hinchcliffe, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Deputy commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), presented remarks during the second day of the Naval Expeditionary Forces (NAVEXFOR) Symposium and Expo 2011 held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center March 15-16.
Rear Adm. Christopher Paul talked to symposium attendees about NECC's core capabilities and their importance to the future of the nation's defense, and that of its allies.
"Navy expeditionary forces are being employed to build confidence and trust among nations through collective security efforts that focus on common threats and mutual interests," said Paul. "Although our forces can surge in response to crises, trust and cooperation cannot be surged. They must be built over time so that the strategic interests of our partners are continuously considered while mutual understanding and respect are promoted."
Paul also spoke on expeditionary warfare and alternative energy.
"In the near term, we must focus on training our personnel on energy conservation and changing behaviors, such as shutting down unneeded equipment to reduce fuel consumption," said Paul. "This may sound like a simple example, but it is an important step to change the way our Sailors operate."
The Navy is leading the country's efforts to achieve energy independence.
While this year's discussions focused on the development of energy efficiencies, the annual symposium is primarily dedicated to discussing the expansion of the traditional domain of naval forces from the shores into far inland areas, and to share information that addresses new requirements to engage the increasing threat spectrum effectively.
More than 50 companies displayed their products and capabilities at NAVEXFOR 2011. They ranged from vendors demonstrating combat weapons systems, supply and logistics to tactical equipment, clothing and gear suppliers.
First Naval Construction Division (NCD) provided a static display that demonstrated some of the capabilities of the Seabees. Senior Chief Equipment Operator Matthew Turner, from 1 NCD, was at the display to talk with guests and answer questions.
"These expos and symposiums help demonstrate what the Seabee capabilities are. We can inform these guests about how Seabees can make a contribution and help those in need," said Turner. "The participation has been very positive."
Other NECC guest speakers included Cmdr. Craig Hill, commanding officer, Riverine Squadron 1; Cmdr. Stephen Murray, commanding officer, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 6; and Cmdr. Joshua Jackson, commanding officer, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit 2.
They discussed the role technology and manufacturing changes have made in the equipment and procedures which expeditionary suppliers provide in their force survivability. They also discussed how equipment and technology advances aided in mission accomplishments.
Jackson said EOD technicians have benefited from just-in-time training, especially when talking about the cat and mouse games EOD technicians play with the enemy world wide and most significantly in Iraq and Afghanistan.
"I just want to say, I'm a big believer in military components and industry working together, from an EOD and a counter improvised explosive device perspective," said Jackson. "When we see the enemy IED threats evolve, we have to be able to react quicker and more effectively to help save lives. These symposiums play a big part in contributing to saving my Sailors lives and I appreciate that."
NECC forces are currently providing port and harbor security, maritime interdiction, and intelligence exploitation to enhance maritime security and maritime domain awareness through our joint and coalition partners.
For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/necc/.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
