Makin Island Conducts First Ammo Onload
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS110319-02
3/19/2011
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Andrew D. Wiskow, USS Makin Island Public Affairs
PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- USS Makin Island (LHD 8) took on approximately 1,200 pallets of ordnance during its first full ammunition onload while underway in the Pacific Ocean March 14-18.
The ordnance onload was a major logistical process necessary for the ship to become fully operational in its war fighting capabilities, while also providing essential training for the crew.
"For the past two years we've been training for this moment," said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Robert W. Jeffers. "This is like the Super Bowl for us."
Makin Island's Weapons Department dedicated a significant amount of time training personnel and preparing its spaces and equipment for the onload.
"It was a lot of forklift driving skills and planning for different types of ammo going into different weapons magazines; as different classifications of ammo can't be stored together," said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Trevor Drashner.
Ordnance was transferred to the Makin Island both from shore facilities as well as from USS Peleliu (LHA 5), utilizing both helicopters and Landing Craft Units (LCU) to get the job done. During the evolution, the ship and her crew encountered adverse weather and reduced visibility while off the coast of Southern California.
"I would say it's been a success," said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Matthew Muravez. "As far as safety is concerned, our guys have done everything by the book. No mishaps.
Makin Island is the latest Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and is currently preparing for her maiden deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation later this year.
For more news from USS Makin Island (LHD 8), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd8/.
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