P E L E N E W SAPRIL 2012

H I S T O R I C

D A Y S

INSIDECO, CMC Corners 2-3SECDEF Visits 4Former President Carter 5

On the CoverTOP TO BOTTOM: Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta (white) launches a Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier “jump jet,” March 30, during at-sea visit. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Alex Van’t Leven.) Former President Jimmy Carter poses with Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handler) Raul Rodriguez, Crash’s LCPO, during a visit, March 10. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCC Jeremy Wood). Peleliu’s Sailors unfurl the Opening Day flag in PETCO Park for the San Diego Padres, April 5. (U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 John Shepherd II).

Since our last issue, Peleliu has been busy accomplishing some very impressive goals - even by our high standards. In addition to performing a great deal of training and achieving numerous certifications, in February our fine warship served as the center of gravity for Exercise IRON FIST with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Japanese Ground Self Defense Force. Our crew performed brilliantly and in spite of some challenging early spring weather, we accomplished our mission safely and successfully.

March was marked by historic events including a visit to the ship by former President and First Lady Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, as well as an underway tour and operational demonstration for the Secretary of Defense, Leon Panetta. In April, 225 Peleliu Sailors unfurled the nation’s ensign at the San Diego Padres’ opening game to the rousing applause of

thousands of grateful fans that sincerely admire and respect what we do.

Service in the Navy provides us many opportunities to achieve greatness and our crew has accomplished each task in typical “Iron Nickel” fashion. I could not be more proud of the way Peleliu has performed during each of these highly visible events.

In the weeks and months to come, there will be more challenges as we work together as a team to hone our warfighting skills and prepare for our upcoming deployment. It’s essential that each and every one of us perform our tasks safely and to the best of our ability. Our nation and our families are counting on all of us to protect them and to set an example by upholding our service core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. I am confident that Peleliu will rise to any and all of these challenges. Warfighting First-Operate Forward- Be Ready!

April 2012 2

VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

By Capt. James T. Cox

By CMDCM David DearieIt’s February. Where does the

time go? It seemed like yesterday when we came out of the overhaul and started our Christmas and New Year leave and upkeep period. Since the first of the year we’ve spent several weeks (total) out to sea. Most recently we operated in exercise Iron First. This annual event includes the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF), US Marines, and the US Navy. Months of planning culminate

with interoperability between all three forces conducting beach landings and live fire exercises in and around Southern California. The days were long for the crew. We had to ballast PELELIU many times throughout the day and night; and sometimes beginning at two in the morning. Ballasting is the act of lowering the aft end of the ship with several feet of water (our well deck) in order to launch the Landing Craft Units (LCU) that carries the Marines, JGSDF Soldiers, and gear to the beach.

Over the coming months PELELIU will continue to prepare for our upcoming deployment later this year. Planning includes operating with the other ships that will deploy with us as well as the Marines that will join our ships. In preparation for deployment we will hold our Predeployment Fair. This event is critical for families

to have a successful deployment with their spouse away for six or more months. Speakers from organizations such as Fleet and Family Support Center, American Red Cross, TriCare, Armed Forces YMCA, USAA, and others share information that will help provide assistance should the need arise while the spouse is deployed. This event will occur in both San Diego as well as Temecula beginning the end of April. Check with your spouse for the exact dates when publicized as well as the Facebook pages of the ship, Ombudsman, and Family Readiness Group.

2012 will be a memorable year. We will be busy. Work will be difficult. But the rewards and successes will be great. Thanks for your continued support of your family member and for the crew of PELELIU.

APRIL 20123

Commanding OfficerCapt. James T. CoxExecutive Officer

Capt. John D. DeehrCommand Master Chief

CMDCM(SW/AW)David Dearie

Public Affairs OfficerMCC(SW/EXW) Jeremy Wood

Managing EditorMCC(SW/EXW) Jeremy Wood

DesignerMC2 Michael Thompson

StaffMC1 Kenneth Hunter

MC2(SW) John ShepherdMC2 Michael ThompsonMC3(SW) Ian Campbell

MC3(AW) Valerie GraysonMCSN Van’t Leven

This magazine was published and printed onboard by the USS Peleliu (LHA 5) media division. This publication is authorized for members of the Department of Defense. Contents are not necessarily the official views of the U.S. Government. The media division reserves the right to edit submissions.

FROM THE DECK PLATES

April 2012 4

Secretary Panetta Visits Peleliu, 15th MEU

Story by Cpl. John Robbart III 15th MEU Public Affairs

Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta got a taste of ship’s life, March 30, when he arrived on an air cushion landing craft and visited the Marines and Sailors of 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and USS Peleliu.

Panetta toured the ship, had lunch with Marines and Sailors, re-enlisted and pinned awards on several service members, and held a brief press conference with the media. Panetta came to visit the Marines and Sailors to reinforce his commitment to maintaining an expeditionary fighting force.

“The [MEU/Amphibious Ready Group] is what we need for the future,” said Panetta. “This is about agility, this is about being able to move quickly, this is about being flexible. It is about doing the things you do right here from this ship. This is the future and that is why I wanted to come here. It is important for me to tell you how important you are to our strategy,” added the 23rd secretary of defense.

Panetta described his strategy as it involved maintaining a strong U.S. defense.

“We have to develop a strategy that ensures we maintain a strong defense for this country,” said Panetta. “We are not going to let budgets drive defense strategy. We’re going to develop a strategy and then base our budget decisions off of that.”

The Marines and Sailors were excited to have a visitor aboard their home away from home.

“It was an honor to listen to what the Secretary of Defense had to say,” said Cpl. Garrett E. Vance, radio operator, Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th MEU. “I was very interested to hear first hand what his plans were for the military,” added the 21-year-old native of Boise, Idaho.

The visit, however, was more than just a motivational tool. It also taught the service members a lesson on leadership.

“There was a lot of value behind this visit,” said Sgt. Adriana G. Obogeanu, fiscal chief, Command Element, 15th MEU. “Great leaders make time to visit with their subordinates, and that is exactly what happened here today.”

Panetta was grateful to all the service

members for their service, and made a point to communicate it to them through his actions and his speech.

“I want to thank all of you for your service,” he said. “Navy, Marines all of you have dedicated your life and you are giving something back to this country. You have, through your dedicated service, time and time again, responded to everything we ask you to do. And for that I thank you. I thank you for your service your dedication your commitment your willingness to put your life on the line.”

He finished with letting the Marines and Sailors know what a valuable asset they are in today’s military.

“The most important part in our defense is not our ships, not our weaponry, not our great planes or helicopters. The best thing we have in the U.S. military is our people. The men and women in uniform that are willing to make the sacrifices necessary to keep this country safe.”

Editor’s Note: Panetta’s transcript can be found at http://www.defense.gov/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=5004

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta laughs and eats with USS Peleliu Sailors and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Marines, March 30, during the ship’s recent at sea period. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Alexander Van’tleven.)

APRIL 20125Fleet News

Synthetic Drug Testing Operating Guide AvailableNaval Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) — Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Office posted the new Synthetic Drug Testing Operating Guide on the NADAP website, officials said April 5.

The Navy’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug use is a key contributor to the readiness area of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine. This initiative which consolidates a set of objectives and policies, new and existing, to maximize Sailor and Marine personal readiness, build resiliency and hone the most combat-effective force in the history of the Department of the Navy.

“The operating guide provides commands easy access to the procedures of synthetic drug testing,” said Dorice Favorite, director, NADAP. “It is important that the samples are collected, documented and processed correctly. The operating guide will help units do that.”

Navy announced it would begin testing for synthetic drugs in NAVADMIN 082/12, released March 12.

“Navy has zero tolerance for drug use, including the use of designer and synthetic chemical compounds, such as Spice,” said Favorite.

Synthetic chemical compound drug use impacts a Sailor’s career, their family life and overall well-being while also impacting Fleet readiness. If a Sailor makes a poor choice and uses these types of drugs, they need to know there will be consequences, emphasized the director.

Navy Announces Graduate School Opportunity for Senior Cyber SailorsChief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors in the information systems technician and cryptologic technician networks ratings will have the opportunity to apply for enrollment in to receive a Master of Science degree in Cyber Systems and Operations: Security and Technology at Naval Postgraduate School, according to NAVADMIN 117/12, released April 5.

IT and CTN Sailors selected for the 12-month, Navy-funded program will be assigned as full time students at NPS starting in September.

The Navy will select up to five active duty and full-time support Sailors to enroll in the program.

Applicants must be an E-6 or above, have a bachelor of science degree in a relevant technical field, hold or be eligible for a TS/SCI security clearance, and be eligible for CONUS/shore assignment between April and December 2012.

Additionally, Sailors selected for the program will incur a five-year active service obligation upon enrollment. Sailors must submit a written request via the commanding officer by May 15.

Former President Jimmy Carter, and the 70th Secretary of the Navy, John Dalton, visited amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) in port, March 10.

Vice Adm. Gerald R. Beaman, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, was also among the distinguished visitors. Approximately, 250 members of the Carter Center visiting San Diego from all over the country were able to see the capabilities of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Peleliu Amphibious Ready

Group first-hand. For many visitors, it was the first time they had been aboard a U.S. naval ship.

“To have President Carter on board was an incredible opportunity for the crew,” said Capt. James T. Cox, Commanding Officer of Peleliu. “He is a distinguished veteran of the Navy and a part of our American history.”

Sailors and Marines from USS Peleliu and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit supported the visit with static displays of

tactical vehicles and aircraft, weapons and equipment, and answered any questions the visitors had.

“From the bottom of my heart I would like to say to all the Navy and Marine forces, thank you, you’re doing your best,” said Carter. This great ship, the USS Peleliu LHA-5, has distinguihsed itself by its service to this nation. These Sailors and Marines here today continue to do that.”

Former President visits PeleliuClockwise: Former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn recieve applause on stage in the hangar bay. Carter addresses 250 guests and Peleliu Sailors and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit Marines (Photos by MC2 Pavlovich). Carter tours the medical spaces during his visit March 10 (Photo by MCC Jeremy Wood).

April 2012 6

Osprey Conduct Historic LandingsBy Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/EXW) Jeremy Wood, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Public Affairs

AT SEA – For the first time, amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) welcomed and completed landing operations with the MV-22 Osprey.

At 2:18 p.m., Feb. 2, pilots from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166 (VMM-166) SeaElks touched down on Spot 7. This initial deck landing, as well as follow on night vision operations, established how future operations on board Peleliu will be conducted.

“Preparing the USS Peleliu to conduct flight operations with the MV-22 Osprey has been a very long two part process, facilities and personnel training,” said Capt. Monte Ulmer, Peleliu’s Air Boss.

Peleliu, a Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship, has slightly different flight decks from its newer Wasp-class (LHD) variants. The facilities process began back in 2009, with MV-22 ship’s alteration to the flight deck, hangar bay and Peleliu’s maintenance facilities. The final MV-22 ship’s alteration was completed during its most recent maintenance availability, completed last December.

“Having no one in the Air Department with previous V-22 experience, we followed a very basic training plan,” explained Ulmer. “We started preparing by reviewing V-22 lessons learned from the east coast ships that had deployed with V-22 squadrons.” One of the ships reviewed was USS Nassau (LHA 4).

“Then, on 22 June 2011, 45 individuals from our Air Department attended a “ground school” and a V-22 familiarization for our Crash, Fuels, LSE’s, Handlers and

MV-22 Osprey from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166 (VMM-166) launches from USS Peleliu (LHA 5), Feb. 1, during flight deck qualifications. This is the first time an Osprey has landed aboard the Tarawa-class LHA amphibious assault ship. (U.S. Navy Photo by MCC(SW/EXW) Jeremy L. Wood)

Primary teams at [Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 161] VMM-161. This was an excellent training opportunity in a static environment. Two weeks prior to conducting our flight operations we meet with the V-22 pilots and scripted the planned events for the [deck landing qualifications].”

Drawing from lessons learned from USS Nassau’s (LHA 4) evolutions in 2008, the Osprey performed the historic landing on spot seven, potentially the most challenging of the three spots allowed, due to its location near the ship’s superstructure and portside elevator. The ship’s island reduces the landing space for the aircraft. However, with ship’s flight deck crew and the aircraft pilot’s coordination, the operation went without incident.

“Once we got it on deck, it confirmed our preparation on the size of the aircraft for handling,” said Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handler) Michael Lauricella, Air Department’s Leading Chief Petty Officer. “[Handlers] had gone to a safety course in Miramar, where we do a walk around, or familiarization, of the aircraft. We also learned all the safe entry and exit points.” Handlers also had an opportunity to work with a static, or non-flying, aircraft.

To complete their qualifications in accordance with the Marine Corps Training and Readiness Manual for air crew, the pilots performed a minimum of five landings on the ship’s port side of the flight deck; including a spot on the forward end of the flight deck (spot four); and one aft (spot seven). In addition to

their qualification, the pilots performed a minimum of two short takeoffs.

An Osprey has a different style of take-off procedures where it needs to taxi forward on the flight deck to clear the ship’s island. Once passed, it will conduct a short take-off. The “blue shirts,” aviation boatswain’s mates in charge of chocking and chaining the aircraft to the deck, became more proficient with a new tie-down pattern, though similar to a largest Navy helicopter, CH-53E Sea Stallion.

“The Air Department Team was well prepared for this event

and performed flawlessly,” Ulmer concluded.

The Osprey was introduced to the Marine Corps in September 1999 to replace the CH-46E Sea Knight and CH-53 Sea Stallion medium lift helicopters. Built lighter and safer than its first productions, the aircraft can carry 24 personnel or a 15,000-pound load. It can vertically take off like a helicopter, and can take-off by rotating its engines up to 90 degrees, turning into a turbo-prop aircraft that can travel at speeds more than 240 knots.

APRIL 20127Japanese, U.S. LeadersObserve IF12

PACIFIC OCEAN — Six bells rang out the arrival of Deputy Chief of Staff, (Japanese) Western Army Maj. Gen. Katsuki Takata, Feb. 9, aboard USS Peleliu (LHA 5) for the observation of Exercise Iron Fist 2012.

During the four-day amphibious phase of the evolution, more than 22 leaders arrived, including Japanese Rear Adm. Fumiyuki Kitagawa, Commander, Escort Flotilla Three and United States Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Melvin Spiese, Deputy Commander, I Marine Expeditionary Force, to observe amphibious operations from USS Peleliu (LHA 5), live naval fire demonstrations and spoke with Japanese and American service members.

Takata and Kitagawa also visited with USS Peleliu’s (LHA 5) Commanding Officer Capt. James T. Cox and Commander, Amphibious Squadron Three, Capt. Mark Sakaguchi for discussions on capabilities and integration of forces.

One unique opportunity shared with Kitagawa and other members of the Japanese Western Army and Escort Flotilla Three personnel was a flight via CH-46E Sea Knight to San Clemente Island. On the ground, they watched how U.S. Marines worked with their Japanese counterparts to call in naval gun fire.

“I enjoy working with other services, as well as other nations,” said Cpl. Robert Ruiz with Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, Assault E. “I was lucky when I joined to get this opportunity [as a trainer and fire controller.]” He expressed that the Japanese are eager to learn and professional in the field. The fire controllers, both Japanese and American, radioed to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) for naval support. After muffled radio voices reported ready, Chancellorsville’s five-inch guns hit their targets.

“This is my first time here [at this exercise]. I enjoy the learning and mentorship,” said Naoki Ogasawara, an inter-platoon commander with the Japanese Western Army Infantry Regiment. “I am taking with me the smart and tough leadership [of the Marines], especially their war stories.”

During the exercise, the Japanese service members sailed on utility landing craft; toured Peleliu’s various departments, including the flight deck and well deck and witnessed bilateral operations.

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/EXW) Jeremy Wood, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Public Affairs

SAN CLEMENTE ISLAND, Calif. - Amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) conducted beach and flight operations Feb. 13, to conclude the seventh annual Exercise Iron Fist 2012 off the coast of San Clemente Island, with elements from 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force.

The exercise demonstrated the interoperability and enhanced amphibious capability of Japanese and American forces. Peleliu provided amphibious lift and a flight platform, while the cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) provided supporting naval gunfire. The amphibious assault phase of Iron Fist 2012 showed that Peleliu was able to act as a single focal point for surface, air and amphibious operations, while nearly 900 U.S. Marines and Japanese personnel joined more than 1,000 Sailors aboard.

The first phase of Iron Fist was conducted at the Marine Corps' Camp Pendleton, Calif., base from Jan. 24 through Feb. 1. The at-sea phase focused on a surface and air effort and included launching to San Clemente Island's beaches. Assault Craft Units 1 and 5 safely conducted 38 hours of utility landing craft and 28 hours of air cushion landing craft operations.

From the air, squadrons conducted deck landing qualifications and both fixed

and rotary wing close air support. The pilots and aircraft handlers used the time to become more proficient with numerous types of helicopters and the Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier "Jump Jet."

Distinguished leaders from across the Pacific region met aboard Peleliu to observe the exercise firsthand. United States Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Melvin G. Spiese, Deputy Commanding General, I Marine Expeditionary Force and United States Navy Rear Adm. Patrick E. McGrath, Deputy Commander, U.S. Third Fleet boarded Peleliu to meet with Japanese Maj. Gen. Katsuki Takata, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Western Army and Japanese Rear Adm. Fumiyuki Kitagawa, Commander, Escort Flotilla THREE.

Both Japanese and Marine forces conducted individual and combined arms live fire and maneuver training on San Clemente Island. The exercise wrapped up with the components of 15th MEU and Japanese Maritime and Ground Self-Defense forces departing via air and sea back to Camp Pendleton.

Joint interagency and international relationships strengthen U.S. Third Fleet's ability to respond to crises and protect collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners.

Peleliu Completes Iron Fist

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/EXW) Jeremy Wood, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Public Affairs

A utility landing craft (LCU) unloads Japanese Self-Defense Forces onto San Clememnte Island during Exercise Iron Fist, Feb 10. Operation Iron Fist is a joint venture between Japanese, US Navy nd Marine Corps forces demonstrating strategic homeland defenses. (U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Michael Thompson).