Quick & Dirty Update

I have returned from deployment! We are safe and back at our homeport of Pearl Harbor. Zach has been successfully delivered to Honolulu as well as our car and our household items. We have moved into a twin house in a military neighborhood. We are busily unpacking and getting to know the area. The weather is fine and we enjoyed Christmas Eve with the Hawai’i Bowl at Aloha Stadium.

Mahalo (see what I did there!?) for all the support throughout the last year or so. We now face a challenge on the home front of settling into a new city, a new home, new friends, reconnecting with each other, and job searching for Zach.

Merry Christmas!

Nightmare Before Christmas

I want you to think of time when you and a group of friends had a bright idea and when discussing it, it was nothing but ‘that sounds totally awesome’ and ‘it’s gonna be epic!’ and ‘there is no way this could go wrong’. Maybe you had a little doubt, but everyone else seemed pretty gung ho about it so you brush your questions under the rug. Now, does the term hindsight is 20/20 come to mind? Yes, this pretty much sums up a naval warship transiting the Panama Canal through the evening/night hours.

Let me just draw a picture for you to help you fill in some blanks. On a good day the estimated time through the canal is 13 hours. Extra watches have to be manned through the entire transit which means, yay no sleep! That’s’ not something foreign to us, but its blazing outside and add the fact that the ship is unable to dump any waste and water production has been reduced. Yes my friends, this means no showers and no working toilets. Extra exhaustion is served up knowing the end of the transit awaits fuel and supply on load. But there is some relief, at least we have a condensed time line and it will be over soon enough.

Wrong! Let’s begin with warship+Panama Canal. This equals SLOWWWW. We have little margin for error on either side of the ship so extra caution is taken.  Slow and steady is the name of the game. We had several canal employees on board our ship including a pilot, as to handle and monitor our travel.

Panama Canal+evening/nighttime. This adds a complexity that proved more risky than anticipated, I believe. Dude, its dark….yes there are lights, but nothing beats good ol’ Mr. Sunshine! The Chafee can now remember the transit with a nice big gouge on the side of the ship...game over for the night. The Canal pilot on board stopped our transit and we were to spend the night in a man-made lake (a lake! I think it will be the first and last time I will be in a lake on a US Naval vessel…) and complete our passage in the morning.

Ok, so we can sleep! Immediately after that thought however, comes the realization that we still have reduced water production.  No showers are to be had and the toilets will still be down. After a sweaty evening and plenty of hydration, this counters the excitement for a night’s sleep.

We get a bit of a late start in the morning, but everything seems to be going smoothly. It’s still hot and everyone has a job to do, but there is plenty of time for photo ops and absorbing the sight and experience. We didn’t gain much ground last night, so the day is long and draining. Lingering in our minds is the fact that a lot of work is to be done after we pull in pier side which ends up being after dinner.

It’s dark and we’re tired, but muster the motivation to get fuel, supplies, to offload trash, and ‘fix’ the side of the boat. Moral is surprisingly high. We’re hot and we are weary, but we push through on-loading several pallets of supplies, thousands of gallons of fuel, and off-loading hundreds of pounds of trash. It amazes me the amount of enthusiasm and positive energy, but our CO and XO are right beside us sweating, hauling, and passing supplies, so that has a lot to do with it I am sure. We’ve also got a sound system and are able to score our activity with music.

It’s high time we get underway and set the sea and anchor detail. But we are delayed…Shocker… For over an hour we standby, not knowing when we will be given permission to leave. Once we are given the ok to leave, and lines are put away its midnight. It has been a very long few days and all anyone can think about is a cold shower; we’ve earned them! The shower line is long, but well worth the wait. Oh, happy day, soap and water!

Though from the beginning it was one big cluster, it was definitely one of the most memorable experiences and I would do it again. I got some great photos and I likely never would have seen the canal at any other point in my life. Trying times has brought us all together and this evolution was one of the more frustrating ones of our deployment.

We are a few days closer to a life far from deployment! We are hanging in there and will be home soon enough!

NavySpeak: Deck; floor. I dropped my pen on the deck!

That Crank Life Though

It’s taken me a while, and this probably isn’t one of the uplifting things I have learned about the Navy, but I have learned that it’s better to have limited expectations entering into your routine. Flexibility (aka, try not to get your hopes up) is the key for smooth sailing around here. Plans are always changing and things are never what you expect them to be whether good or bad.

For the past couple of months I had been temporarily assigned to work in the kitchen and berthings as my primary duty. Instead of working with Tomahawks in my own work center, I was pulled to help in the galley. I prepped and served food, cleaned living spaces, and dropped off/picked up the crew’s laundry. It’s a three month period that everyone has the privilege of doing in their first year or so of arriving to their first ship. The term used for this cranking, so that made me a crank.

My days consisted of a 0430 wake up to have breakfast ready by 0600. After clean up in the kitchen, I would head to the living spaces where I cleaned and picked up or dropped off laundry depending on what day of the week it was. That would roll right into getting lunch ready and then before I knew it dinner was beckoning. Between cleaning, prepping, and serving, my days were pretty packed servicing the rest of the crew. Days were long, full, and agitating at times. This wasn’t exactly what I had in mind when I joined or the purpose I thought I would fulfill.

I worked hard and tried to have a good attitude. I made some friends while I was there and even was recognized with a letter of appreciation. My work there was done, and I was very much looking forward to one last liberty port without having to crank and in beautiful Curacao not to mention! We were only going to be there a day, but it was just what I thought I needed to refresh my body and mind.

Low and behold I was put in to the duty section that held down duty that day… womp, womp. There was work to be done and a ship to take care of. I didn’t get time to relax away from the ship.

Though I was unable to get out and enjoy the sights, I was being thought of. I had friends buy souvenirs and food for me as they returned to the ship after their day of rest. I was also able to get some speedy wifi and surf the net a little. It’s amazing how cheerful these small things made me, but considering life deployed I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised.

We’re back underway with our homecoming in the double digits! We are all very anxious and appreciate our loved ones support. We will see you soon!

All Hollow’s Eve

As we continue to move more and more south the weather gets colder and colder. The average temperature in Peru and Chile would now be a dream come true for us all. The drop in air temperature means a drop in the water temp which in turn makes the ship and its water harder to heat. Cold days lead to cold showers followed by a freezing nights’ sleep. Extra layers under uniforms for us all!

Ice cold showers and long underwear is the tradeoff for a once in a lifetime experience as we cruise through the Straits of Magellan at the southernmost tip of South America. Completely stunning! Snowcapped mountains on either side of us as we steam through the rocky seas. We trudge through 10-14ft swells at times with 40 knot winds. The strait is well known for being very rough as the Pacific and Atlantic currents collide. All equipment and belonging were secured for the seas, but not everything escaped unscathed. Condiments at dinner, partially prepared meals, chairs, papers, a good night’s sleep and much more met their doom.

The eerie sight of greenish water with giant looming swells traveling as fast as we were and wind whipping spray around was balanced by costumes, decorations, scary movies and trick or treating as we traveled through on Halloween. What a scene right? A bunch of grown adults in costume, trick or treating around a US naval ship on deployment… trust and believe as silly as it sounds it’s just the kind of morale booster we look forward to at this point on deployment.

We’re keeping our heads up, but as we get closer to the end it seems time creeps slower, but if I’ve learned anything in the last few years is that time will continue and this stage will end eventually. I will get home.

Replay in Chile

Our Chilean experience started out similar to a child playing with a yo-yo. Disappointment rattled the crew as we moored pier side in Valparaiso Chile, but left a handful of hours later to avoid incurring damages by a coming storm, only to loiter in circles for over a day all the while wondering if we would pull in at all.

Finally, late in the evening the following day, we anchored in their harbor and anxiously waited for morning when we could snag some R & R. However, we were unable to leave the ship until late afternoon for circumstances unknown to me. When we finally had permission to leave there was still the ‘small’ feat of departing the ship.

We were still anchored, as opposed to moored to the pier, and we had sustained damage to the ladder typically used to for getting into small boats from the ship during our anchoring evolution the night before. Instead, we used a rope ladder directly over the side of the ship. It led to a small dock about 10 steps down and finally onto a small boat which would take us to the shore. Keep in mind we were originally held up due to a storm and the sea was still a bit choppy. I looked over the side at the sight and momentarily doubted my desire to leave the ship. I enjoyed being safe and unharmed…but my need to get off the ship outweighed my fears.

Though our arrival was delayed, we still had a mission to fulfil. We headed out to sea after two days to conduct training exercise with the Chilean Navy. Our training was a huge success and I was able to have a small hand in a live fire training event with Chilean, Mexican, US Navies, and US Marines. The excitement of smooth coordination between countries and a live fire event lifted moral and gave some purpose to, what can be a mundane, daily routine here. It was a good reminder of why we are out here and/or why we joined.

We made a trip back to Chile after the organized events and our time in port was much smoother. Chile had wine, soccer, shopping, horseback riding, gorgeous views, and great food to offer.  I felt like I was at a wedding during the wine tasting tour I did. There were dancers, yummy food (lots of fresh veggies, almost a delicacy to us onboard a ship), fancy décor, and beautiful vineyards with mountains in the back ground. Also, while we were there Chile played the US in a soccer world cup qualifier for their U17 teams. Tickets were sold out, but it made for friendly banter at the local bar/restaurants.

Chile was fantastic and I wish we had more time there.  If I go back, however, I will be learning more Spanish!  A day in the city can easily turn in a stressful and unrelaxing experience with a language barrier. I am so very thankful for my Spanish speaking friends!

I got news I was an Auntie while there too! Finley Paul Johnson is beautiful and healthy. I am so excited to meet him when I visit MN in January. But one feat at a time…finish deployment out strong.

NavySpeak of the Day: Berthing; the living space where we sleep and have a bathroom. I love the end of the work day when I can head to berthing and go to sleep.

Hola Mi Amigos!

Where to begin?! I feel as though I have been MIA from my blog scene; my apologies. I’ve been struggling to convey in words my thoughts and experiences the last several weeks.

Let me start out by saying the end of deployment is rapidly approaching and I cannot begin to describe to you the excitement I feel! My life will slowly become ‘normal’ again after 12 long months; living in a house with my husband, having a car, freedom to purchase and cook my own food, leaving work at the end of the day, returning to my hobbies, and overall less stress are just a few things I am looking forward to. That being said, getting to my 1^st command and going directly on deployment has given me the opportunity to develop strong relationships despite my relatively short time here. This is something I never expected and something I am truly blessed with. I have enjoyed many port calls in South America in the last several weeks and this is something I will never forget either.

Following San Diego, I was fortunate enough to spend my birthday in Mexico! We spent evenings celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day with local dancing and dress. Also, during the day to fight the unrelenting heat we retreated to the water where we played water games and enjoyed conversation and sunshine.

From there we headed to Panama for some fuel and a single night of liberty. However, due to the needs of our strike group we got our fuel and supplies and had to reconvene with them immediately. Panama was enjoyed from afar taking in the sight of the city and the many ships awaiting the canal.

We continued south along the western side of South America and stopped in Callou, Peru. We were able to accomplish service projects with the local community as well as strengthen foreign relationships through organized soccer and basketball games with the Peruvian Navy. We also swapped a handful of our crew for tours of each other’s ships and their naval base.

Peru was full of alpaca fur! They produce vast amount of sweaters, hats, and socks. Since it was winter transitioning to spring, and us being from Hawaii, the ‘cold’ 50 degree days called for many alpaca cold weather clothes purchases by visiting sailors.

Peru is known for their seafood as well. I never liked octopus much until I tried it in Peru. I will likely not enjoy it the same anywhere else either. They also have a drink that was much enjoyed by us all called pisco. I liked mine as a pisco sour, but there were other variations. It is tart like a margarita and made with egg whites for a frothy surface. They tasted great, but man were they sneaky!

We are focused and determined during our last leg of deployment, not without much sacrifice, heartache, homesickness, and mistakes. Please continued to keep us all in your prayers; prayers for protection, freedom from distractions, and reminders of love and support from home.

4 Down, 3 to Go

     I have learned more about being a sailor and about myself in the last 4 months than I ever dreamed possible. How can what seems an eternity also feel as though it has been no time at all?

     Deployment started with me floundering about, attempting to gain my sea legs, trust from my shimates, making my way around the ship, and adapting to a new schedule. I was only accutely aware that we had guests aboard to assist in fulfilling our mission. The US Coast Gaurd accompanied us on the first few weeks enforcing maritime security laws. With the help of our boarding teams, they were boarding various vessels we encountered to ensure no trafficking of persons, drugs, or illegal fishing was taking place. Collaberation between the Navy and Coast Gaurd led to safe and organized boardings, though their days proved tough with a constant rotation of teams boarding vessels several times per day.

     As we wrapped up with the Coast Gaurd we pulled into Brisbane, Australia for some R & R. There were thousands of sailors as we pulled in with several other US Naval ships. The city was saturated with sailors and the night life was popping, but soon it was time to get back on the clock. War games were calling! Our ship was privilaged to 'play' with other US and Australian Naval ships in several days of

orchestrated war games. We were able to show off our finely tuned skills and brush up on others. It was a huge success and an honor to be part of.

    From there, our focus shifted to the more serious note of escorting the USS George Washington, a nuclear powered air craft carrier, to their destination. My ship is designated as an underwater warefare warship; sub hunters. We were responsible for maintaining a safe perimeter for travel of our strike group. With exagerated efforts from our helos and sonar equipment successful execution was acheived. Now, it was time for a brief stop in Guam to refuel and resupply with some liberty to enjoy. However, as we were working to bring supplies onboard our sub hunting skills were needed for real time naval efforts. We were to head right back out to sea, leaving liberty on the shores of Guam.

     This would have us roll right back into another Coast Gaurd collaboration and yet another liberty disappointment in Guam. It was August at this point with no liberty since June. Needless to say we were all going a bit crazy. I believe I described it in an earlier blog as the dark ages...
     Whispers of Japan came about, then a shift to San Diego. As plans for San Diego solidified the crew grew giddy with the option to fly family out to meet us as we were to arrive in a US port. We started steaming in that direction, but had a couple weeks before we would make it there.

     As we made the cruise I was able to get an entry level Security Reaction Force qualification. We learned tactics in weapon retention, takedowns, tactical movements and room clearing. We were also certified to carry OC spray, but not before we were sprayed and taken through an obstacle course...A bit of advice; don't run from the authorities, my  friends. You will have a very negative experience.
    
     I also receievd a qualification to stand armed watches. We were able to set up a gun range on our flight deck and were taught and qualified to shoot pistols and rifles. I managed to score high enough in the pistol portion to earn and 'expert' designation. It doesn't mean much other than bragging rights and I can wear a special ribbon on my uniforms.
    
     When we finally arrived in San Diego it was an amazing relief to be on land! We hadn't stopped anywhere for over two months. And I got to see Zach! We had a beautiful time, but came to an end all too soon. It was a crushing goodbye and low spirits as the thought fo 3 more months at sea came to the forefront of my mind.
    
     On the bright side, we are more than halfway through and have several port calls scheduled for the coming half. As I get back into the swing of things the more excited I will be to make the most of these experiences with much more learning and growing to be had I am sure.

NavySpeak: Liberty- Free time, time off from work to play or relax

Just Call Me Augie Farks

DISCLAIMER: PG-13 entry (Sorry Ma and Momma H.)

So much of our job as sailors is preparing for the worst, but hoping for the best. It can feel, at times, like Live Action Role Playing (LARP). Drill after drill we drill again. Often running drills into the evening or right away in the morning after a midnight watch. Firefighting, HAZMAT, flooding, live gun shoots, medical emergencies, missile firing scenarios, force protection, man over-board, and engine failures. All of which have little chance of happening, on a scale that would be detrimental, thus making it all too easy to become complacent. However, we are in a situation now, that may make us take on these drills with more motivation.

It's time to re-fuel. Plan A has fallen through and plan B...well, plan B is 4 days away. 4 days... This isn't your run of the mill I got a flat tire-call dad type of scale. This is there is no one to help for multiple days and hundreds of miles, DO NOT fuck this up, someone-will-die type of scale. By no means are we in dyer distress (today), but it opens my eyes to how vast the ocean truly is and, even more pertinent, how important it is that we face causalities with precision and speed. Practicing day in and day out my seem like a game of LARP, but being prepared for anything could mean the difference between going home or meeting Davey Jones.

NavySpeak of the Day:

'Rack'- Our bed; stacked three high like bunk beds, the mattress opens up to storage where we place our belongings. Other related terms: 'Rack out'- a term we use to say we are going to bed. Also, rack ops (operations).

Hello, My Name is _______________

     My name is USS Chafee. I live in Peral Harbor Hawaii and love my career as a US Naval war ship. I was commissioned in 2003 as an AEGIS destroyer. I am named after former Rhode Island senator and secretary of the Navy John Chafee. I work hard transporting my family around the Pacific Ocean so they may carryout their duties as United States Sailors.
     I love star gazing, watching sunsets, and long ocean cruises. However, the salty seawater does a number on my skin! It will rust my equipment if I don't keep it in check. The crew spends much time rinsing my surface with freshwater from hoses and much physical labor to chip and repaint where they were too late. They work up a good sweat, especially so close to the equator. I like to think it's a labor of love, but without me they wouldn't make it long.
    Recently, I've enjoyed a number of flybys of jets, helo flight operations, and we've even played war games with some of our allies in a large training event. With all the excitement we haven't been able to stop much. My guys are feeling the drag of deployment...we've entered the dark ages. What excitement there was before we left, has diminished as the days and weeks drone on without a port visit.
    There has been many efforts in keeping morale up. Sunday picnics on the flight deck have become a crew favorite. Enjoying grilled food, games, cigars, and watching the sunset. Fishing and movie projections are a bonus too! They have shown interest in many tournaments and competitions ranging from card games, to video games to talent shows, and photo submissions. Almost daily, there are gun shoots to participate and learn. The M240 machine gun was a few days ago and that was pretty amazing. One particular sailor (me!), helped carry the ammo and both guns up 4 floors (or decks as we call them) and was exhausted long before getting to shoot. There have also been M9, shotgun, .50 cal, and our 5" gun/cannon shoots. All guns need to be in working order, and those operating them are required to be proficient. The said sailor is also learning how to load and operate the 5". One round of this ammo is 70 lbs.! Lifting weights are in order if she is to load more than 5 rounds at a time....
     With all this, still the most talked about event is our next port visit, still to be determined. As always, I will do my best to deliver them safely. Hopefully it will be soon!

NavySpeak of the Day:
Belay my last; used to make a correction when you misspeak.
Example: "The girl has red hair, belay my last, she had blond hair."

Untitled

Gazing out at the endless blue,
some would say it's a peaceful view.

Where the ocean ends and the sky begins,
is a seamless portrait of a battle with in.

My chest burns hot with active frustration.
Yet, saturated in pride and determination.
A tear of repeated sacrifice
one full of commitment, but compromise
defies my fierce loyalties.
But my fears; enveloped in comradery.
This pure proud heart has been betrayed;
Fischers of sorrow being portrayed.

These weights and wings of turmoil will be
What paints our flag as the land of the free.

You Want Me To Do What...?

0430: "Reveille! Reveille! All hands heave out! UNREP gear will be issued at 0515."

A steady stream of sailors pour from the inside of the ship donned in lifejackets, hard hats, and chem lights (glow sticks). We are headed to man our stations as part of the underway replenishment (UNREP) detail. It's so windy topside, I'm getting blown off balance and the sea spray wets my face. Most of what I see are figures lit only chem lights, scurrying about the deck to prep for the upcoming event.

Underway replenishments are one of the most dangerous evolutions we perform.We have to get into what we call 'battle dress' in which watches, rings, and dangly things are to be removed, sleeves are rolled up, and pant legs tucked into our boots.

Off in the distance a glimpse of our supply ship can be seen. The ship will replenish our inventory of fuel, food, repair parts, mail, and other goods. Our helicopters can airlift pallets of supplies from ship to ship, but fuel lines must be brought over by other means; man power. (This is the part of being a sailor that the recruiter fails to mention...) Along with about 15 other sailors, I will be responsible for hoisting a fuel line from the supply ship to our ship. Practical and simple enough in theory, but in reality its a game of tug of war with Goliath.

The task is initiated when both ships give the ready sign. they aling themselves so they are traveling at the exact same speed, totally parallel from each other with noly about 300 ft between themselves. Doing so causeing a strong current in the water that seperates the two. The pilots and their team of navigators must be extremely vigil with constan corrections in their efforst to maintain positive control. In the pilot house they are unable to see what i can see...The water below looks violetn; like a river you may fo white water rafting in. Except here, if you fall in, you drop 30 ft firts, and then get sucked under a moving naval vessel props fully engaged. (ill just let you chew on that). The sight makes us that much more apprehensive about what we are about to do.

When the ships are in place, a shot line the size of twine, is shot from one ship to the other using a modified rifle. The line is collected and pulled in by the line handlers (thats me!). The mear repitition of hand over hand movement is enough to start a burn in your shoulders, let alone the progressive weight of the line as it gets larger and stronger.

The size of the line is finally sturdy enough to handle the bulky fuel lines. From the supply ship they hook their fuel line to their end of the rope and let the fun begin! The added weight and tension is enough to get all 15 of us huffing and puffing.

With rhythmic commands of  "heave! heave! heave!" comes an agonizingly short give to our rope. Again, we heave!, heave!, heave! and our muscles protest. Fatigue is the biggest challenge, until it begins to rain. It whips our faces and slicks the rope. Tap outs become necessary to hold our ground. For a split second we lose minimal ground, but with potentially catastophic consequence. The front line handler gets danerously close to going overboard. This brings on quick fierce commands that cut through the rain and a renowned sense of 'oh shit!' felt by all. We've regained our grip physically and mentally; our tired muscles and the rain forgotten. We heave simultaneously for what seems like ages and the memory of pained muscles return.

Finally, the command to "avast!" came. It is quickly followed by the command to snap and lock the fuel line in place. It seemed a daunting task, but our mental strength, more powerful that our physical after the threat of losing a  fellow sailor, rang true. With one last perfectly synchronized heave, the fuel line was locked in! Victorious hollers from below, where the fuel line is actually connected, gave heed that we were successful. Resounding sighs of releif and grunts of triumph flared throughout us line handlers.

I want to give a shout out to all my friends who were there that day! It was crazy stressufl and unnerving task, but we came together and got the job done. Hooya!

This was a particularly stressful UNREP. We will be doing these several more times throughout deployment. Prayer is much appreciated!

NavySpeak of the Day:
Unsat; short for unsatisfactory. Used informally like slang
"The lunch menu was so unsat today!"

Relaxing in Style Down Under

So I had an absolute blast in Australia! We had a 5 hour transit up the channel to the pier we were going to moore to. An Australian, who knows the channel well, came on board to drive our ship through it. I am part of the sea and anchor detail as a line handler, so I was on the flight deck the and helped him aboard. I was on the flight deck the whole time. Until we were actually needed at the pier, we were mostly just on standby enjoying our first glimpses of Australia. Then we were responsible for tossing lines and securing the ship to the pier. There were several of my ship mates who had their families meet them in Australia. They were all waiting on the pier for them. As we pulled in we passed the carrier we've been escorting, which was moored already. We all got into formation and rendered a salute as we passed them out of respect.

It took us several hours to prep for liberty call. Our spaces had to be cleaned, trash had to be off loaded (so much trash!!!). We formed an assembly line and passed like a hundred bags down to the dumpster. Some stuff we can discard over the side of the ship as we travel, but things like plastics and metal we can't so that’s what it mostly consisted of.

It was a mad scramble to throw stuff in back packs and get off the ship when they let us leave. Australia was a liberty port for us. Which means that we got the day off as long as we weren't on duty that day. Our duty days are 24 hours and we have them 1x every 4 days. It's essentially a skeletal crew to keep the ship afloat while in port. I only had one duty day so I got a hotel with another girl for two nights. They had buses that ran to and from Brisbane or Gold Coast pretty much all day, but the initial buses we so backed up that my group decided to take a cab. We were staying in Gold Coast which was like an hour from the ship. Our taxi tab was...surprising! It was $350 Australian dollars! Ugh! We split it between 4 people and because of the exchange rate it was about $280 US dollars, but still! We just wanted to get our liberty started, so it was worth it to us.

We pulled in with an aircraft carrier with about 4000 sailors on it. My ship has about 300 people so the city was popping with sailors! We had a news segment on the local channel because of the saturation of the city with us all. Night life was incredible! There were people everywhere! It was a Friday that we pulled in and there were the local Australians out as well as over 4000 sailors who have been cooped up for a month and itching to spend their money and relax. You couldn't go to a bar that wasn't crawling with people. There were a lot of live bands and fantastic food! I was able to try kangaroo and I had the best lamb I've ever had. There was plenty of shopping and souvenir shops as well.

We spent part of an afternoon at the beach. It was winter there so the average temperature was about 65 during the day and 50 or so at night. (they use Celsius so when the taxi thermometer read 18 degrees I freaked out a little). Needless to say, I didn't go in the water, but the beach backed right up to skyscrapers and the shopping district so it was relaxing to just sit around and walk the shore and enjoy the skyline.

We also, went to a wildlife sanctuary where I got to hold a koala bear! It was so fun! He hugged me and clung right on. He was really smelly though. During the days leading up to getting to Australia the hot topic on the ship was that most koalas have chlamydia...? I didn't believe it, but the second I got a whiff of him I thought of that! Ahhh!  There were Tasmanian devils, wombats, dingos, and of course kangaroos! We were able to enter the space where they kept the kangaroos. They were very friendly and let us pet and feed them.

I wish I was able to upload some photos. We were moving from one thing to the next so fast that I couldn't hook up to wifi to download what I wanted to...I we are Facebook friends I have a few postings of the photos I took with my phone, but nothing posted that I took with a real camera. I guess there will be a cascade of photos one of these days for you to enjoy.

Australians seemed very nice. They are an English speaking country, but have different words for things. They call elevators 'lifts', parking lots are 'carparks',garbage is 'rubbish', and restrooms are just 'toilets'. They drive on the left side of the road which I never got used to. Even as a pedestrian that changes how you walk on the sidewalk and the direction you look when crossing the street. 

They welcomed the US Military. We were able to exchange memorabilia with the Australian Navy and one of the local police department. There were no major incidents and I had a great time bonding and relaxing with my shipmates. It's a strange relationship to live and work and hang out with them. It's something I was told, but I am starting to feel it's truth. I haven't spent much time on board and already I feel like I have known them so much longer.

We pulled out this morning and I am trying to get back to the grind...I have watch at 0130 and will be up all day tomorrow working and then watch from 2200-0200. Yay to jumping right back into things!! Up for 24 hours, then 4 hours of sleep, and another full day of work....ugh! I should've slept more when we were in Australia...lol

Goodnight!

A Lot of Frazzle With a Pinch of Dazzle

     I haven't written in a while for several reasons. It had been hard to find the combination of time and an available computer. Also, I just wasn't feeling up to it, honestly, the first several days at sea. I was taking in so much information I was completely exhausted come bed time. Now that I have been at sea for a couple weeks I feel like I can paint a fairer picture of my experiences.

     As we ceremoniously stood the length of the boat and pushed off the pier, I saw clusters of families embrace and disappear as we set out to sea. The goodbyes lingered as we passed the air force base and people had lined the shore waving and shouting best wishes and blessings. Our jaws were clenched a little tighter to fight back hot tears. We were now at full capacity with minds on the mission. There were seas to patrol, a country to protect, and a ship to relieve. 

    We hit the ground running with life on deployment and let me tell you, it is a fast paced world. I got lost in the mix for several days. I was feeling overwhelmed with the giant list of qualifications that were staring me in the face. I had few friends to talk to, I wasn't sure what I was supposed to be doing at any given time, I had trouble relaxing and felt anxious all the time. I hadn't contacted home, taken anytime to myself, and the sheer number of qualifications was extremely daunting. This led to even less sleep than our schedule allowed and a recoil into a small depression. I hated life here and bitterly asked God to get me home and why He had placed me here in the first place. I had plans on turning to the Chaplain to see what my options were, though I knew they were few to none. There was absolutely no way I would be continuing this deployment or life as a sailor.

     I did end up talking to the Chaplain. However, God has other plans for me than letting me quit when things get rough. The Chaplain was able to bring me back down from the misery I was feeling. We made a manageable list of goals for the next two weeks. We prayed and he told me about the church service he was holding the following Sunday. He stressed the need to take time to myself everyday and do things unrelated to the Navy. He taught me how to be on deployment.

     Since then I have turned a corner. Trust and believe that there are times, on almost a daily basis, I feel like I can't possibly get through another day; that I've met my breaking point. But with God I can do all things. I have shifted my focus to my smaller list of goals, daily devotions, and concerning myself with how others are feeling. We are all feeling similar heartaches and are in the same boat so to speak... ;)

     The command had done a fantastic job of providing activities and distractions a few days a week to help with our moral. We have had an ice cream social and karaoke, a talent show, board games, bingo and popcorn, and we have a 'steel beach picnic' on Sunday afternoons. The grill is brought out to the flight deck for a BBQ, there is music and lawn chairs, and people bring out their fishing poles and guitars. We are able to socialize right there on the flight deck, play games, and watch the sunset. It has been something to look forward to each week and an opportunity to get to socialize and build comradery.

     Daily life is hectic, demanding, and long....My unit performs general maintenance on our system and runs through strike scenarios almost on a daily basis. As a ship we run training such as general quarters (simulated attack on the ship), man over-board drills, active shooting/anti-terrorism scenarios, medical emergencies, live fires of most of the weapons on board, and fire fighting. We train for the worst and hope for the best. In reality there are several flight ops a day as well as investigations of various contacts we monitor on a 24 hour basis, an enormous effort from the food specialist, and engineering department to keep the ship and crew running.

     We got a break from seriousness last week as we left the northern hemisphere to enter the southern hemisphere when we crossed the equator. The Navy has a tradition in which a ceremony is performed when this happens. They also have a tradition when the ship crosses the date line. We just so happened to do both at the same time! Sailors who have crossed the equator in the past are nicknamed Shellbacks and those who have not are nicknamed Pollywogs. The 'Wogs' undergo an initiation to be honored with the title of Shellback. It mainly consists of mildly embarrassing tasks including a silly uniform, a lot of singing, and a water logged obstacle course. This lasted all morning and about 150 of us not only earned our title as Shellback, but Golden Shellback for crossing both the equator and the date line at the same time. (I am now 16 hours ahead of the Central time zone).

      I will not have photos until we port. We are not allowed to insert anything into the computers on board for fear of operational security breaches.

     Thank you for your continued support, and love from afar. I'd love to hear from you all! Email, regular mail, photos, and packages are welcomed. There will be plenty of people who need a pick-me-up so if you feel so inclined to send mail to my shipmates or my entire work center please do so. Let me know if you'd like the mail to go to someone else in need and I am happy to deliver.

Lily:0, Life:1

CWIS (Sea whizz) Essentially a monster version of a Gatling gun
Capable of shooting 2,000 rounds per minute

     I'm fairly certain that I am developing a case of schizophrenia. The last week has been a case of highs and extreme lows. We had a 'family day cruise' at the beginning of the week where family members were invited to come onboard for a day at sea. It gave the ship a chance to test machinery and equipment to verify its functionality and it gave family members (and myself) a tiny taste of what their sailors' lives will be like for the next 7 months. We were able to cruise at full speed, make high speed maneuvers (like ones we would do for a man overboard), we fired several of our weapons (not mine), and were able to do several drills including a simulated helicopter casualty on our helipad (we have two helos on the ship that will be coming with us). It was amazing to see the capabilities of the ship and its skilled sailors. That was obviously the high.


Offloading live rounds and replacing them the dummy rounds
on the CWIS

    As I receive my lifeboat assignment in case of abandoned ship orders, my general quarters (navyspeak for battle) station as a .50 cal gun mount loader, am fitted for a SCBA mask (for firefighting or hazmat situation), and the crew moves in clothes, gaming systems, and other entertainment, reality is setting in for the 7 months we will spend at sea. My low points have been attributed to this as well as continued separation from Zach, long days of learning, but still not being helpful, meeting new people, lack of freedom to move about the island (I have no car here), I don't have my own space, everything is metal (ouch!), and small (I cringe every time the shower curtain skims my skin!). I am thankful for the opportunities I have been given, but I've been sourly wondering why God has even guided me here. I'm praying for a some sort of breakthrough very soon.

Helicopter casualty simulation on our helipad

     After Sunday my posts will be from the Pacific Ocean or various parts of the world! We are headed to Guam first so that will be my first 'land post'! I'm told that internet at sea is pretty spotty, but I will post as often as possible. I will also be checking my email when I can. Feel free to email me. I will not have a phone until we are back at homeport in several months, so I will not receive calls or text messages after Sunday.

     Until next time!


Vertical Launching System for
Tomahawks and Standard Missiles

 
    

Ooops!

The address I posted last week was incomplete. Here is the correct address for me to receive mail throughout deployment. So sorry!

Lily Hamann

USS Chafee DDG 90

Unit 100199 Box 812

FPO AP 96662

Aloha from Oahu!

    You will all be delighted to hear that I've been delivered to Oahu safe and sound! The last few days have been a whirlwind for me. Utter culture shock is the word that comes to mind. I was about ready to through in the towel when I realized I can't. No, literally I can't. I've signed my life away for the next five years!... Yikes!
     But, after almost three days on the ship I am starting to experience little victories that give me hope. I am now able to get myself from the topside of the ship to my berthing (navyspeak for living quarters), to my work center, and to the mess line. I can also open the water tight doors without any problems. (You don't know frustration until you can't get yourself through a door)! I've gotten accustomed to the time change, bought a pillow and mattress pad for my coffin, oh! I mean my bed. (It reminds me of a coffin b/c I don't have room to sit up and I have a little curtain to shut myself completely in). I passed my fitness test even after almost a month of doing absolutely no exercise, eating poorly, being jet legged, and in 82 degree muggy weather at 5:30am. I've also gotten my first banger out of the way...I rocked my shin on the little step-up that happens in the passage ways on my ship every several feet at random increments.

 

   These are just some of the silliness in my life right now, but magnify that by 10 for all the little things not mentioned. The biggest struggle is being away from my hubby. We've already spent over 3 months apart while I was in San Diego at C-school. I was able to spend a solid two weeks with him (shout out to the Mall of America and their Yellow Ribbon Program for giving Zach the time off we needed) in MN, but for another 8 months, or so, I will be somewhere in the Pacific with little communication. It seems I am looking at a sheer cliff with no way to the top. My momma sent me a lovely email prayer the other day and I know I have a ton of others praying for me. I don't know how people get through hard times without God with them. I have shed several tears after only a handful of days and I have Him on my side. But, trust and believe He has already answered some of our prayers.
     I have had fantastic relationships with my co-workers so far. They have been so gracious showing me around the ship, base, and the island! I have even met some navy wives who took me under their wings this weekend. My team has also shown great patience with my frequent need to be guided around the ship. I know I will not be thrown to the wolves with them by my side.
   
     My beautiful sissy, who is preggo with my niece/nephew (eeeek! So pumped to be an auntie), suggested posting some ideas for care packages if you are so inclined to send things. Keep in mind there will be people who don't get mail from their loved ones. If you would like me to pass things along to those who need some love via care packages just let me know and I will pass it along! So, here are some suggestions: non-perishable food items like dried fruit, nuts, popcorn, crackers, gum, beef jerky, candy, protein bars, various spices (our food gets real bland) tea or coffee pods (for kurig or similar device), oatmeal, tuna. The more convenient the better like the bags of tuna vs. cans, or packets of oatmeal vs. the big canister. Uniform items like solid navy blue t-shirts, solid black socks, bobby pins, hair ties. Toiletries like toothpaste/brush, contact solution, hairspray, shampoo/conditioner, lotion, tampons, deodorant, panty liners/pads, foot spray, baby wipes, dry shampoo, IB prophen, Echinacea, Emergen-c/airbourne, Dramamine, chapstick. Entertainment like DVDs, photos, headphones, magazines, calling cards, iTunes or Amazon cards (Yes, amazon delivers to the ship!). Just remember packages will get pretty beat up and will take a very long time to get to the ship. Also, I'm putting in a request now for Auntie Moe's caramels please! :) I suppose you need to address too, huh?

Lily Hamann CMO1
USS Chafee DDG 90
FPO AP 96662-1305

Have a blessed day!

There's No Place Like Home

As I sit at the cusp of a new chapter in my life, I couldn't think of a better way to end one than the two weeks I just spent in MN. Home. I am truly blessed beyond anything I deserve. I have a water tight support system and an out pouring of love that stems from it. I couldn't ask for a better way to help with the culture shock I am about to experience.

                                                                             

 

                                                                          

                                                                             

 

 

                                                                           

I am currently at the airport awaiting my flight to Hawaii. I will be stationed at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu for the next 3-5 years. 'Oh, how terrible for you!' (Insert sarcasm here). Or, 'You're so lucky!' I am. Hawaii will be beautiful and an adventure that Zach and I will cherish. There is a big BUT, however. It just so happens that my battle group is being activated for a 6-8 month deployment almost as soon as I get there. Zach will not be joining me in Hawaii until we return. I will be trying to acclimate to the fleet as well as dealing with the agonies of deployed life.

I don't want to be a total Negative Nelly. Opportunities to see the world is one of the reasons I chose the Navy opposed to other branches. I will also have few distractions from learning my job and other duties I will be assigned.

I have no regrets, though it was hard to say goodbye. Enjoy the photos from MN! And thank you for your continued prayers!