The Independence News Link

Declaration Stories and Current information about INDEPENDENCE

Independence departs homeport of Yokosuka, Japan for the last time
Date: July 7, 1998

The only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier, USS Independence (CV 62) departed it's homeport of Yokosuka, Japan for the last time this morning amongst a sea of media, distinguished visitors, and onlookers.

Independence returns to Yokosuka, Japan -- battle group to follow shortly
Date: June 5, 1998

USS Independence (CV 62) will be the first ship of the Indy battle group to return home when it moors in Yokosuka, Japan, today, exactly four months after the battle group arrived on station in the Arabian Gulf and remained there in support of Operations Southern Watch and Desert Thunder.

Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month closes out
Date: June 1, 1998

More than a thousand Sailors and Marines crowded together in Hangar Bay One Sunday evening for the Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month closing ceremony and talent show.

McHarg takes command of Carrier Air Wing FIVE
Date: May 31, 1998

A change-of-command ceremony was held aboard Independence Saturday morning in the ship's forecastle. During the ceremony, Capt. Richard O. McHarg officially assumed command as the 54th Commander of Carrier Air Wing FIVE.

Celebrating 100th Declaration this year
Date: May 29, 1998

The ship's newspaper, The Declaration, recently celebrated its 100th newspaper of 1998 - a milestone achieved more than four months earlier than in 1997.

Arabian Gulf Ballcap Giveaway wrapped up
Date: May 28, 1998

Independence officially wrapped up its unique Ballcap Giveaway contest by leaving the Arabian Gulf recently and giving away a total of fifteen "Don't Tread on Me" captain's ballcaps accompanied by fifteen ship's photos.

VAW-115 raises record amount for Navy/MC relief
Date: May 27, 1998

The Annual Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society Fund Drive was a resounding success for VAW-115. Even though it's one of CVW-5's smallest squadrons, the Liberty Bells raised an astounding $8083, the second highest total in Carrier Air Wing FIVE.

VAQ-136 Petty officer aces EAWS exam
Date: May 26, 1998

Aviation Electrician's Mate 3rd Class(AW) Ansuma Marbey hasn't been in the Navy very long, but he's already achieved something that even the oldest of salts can appreciate. When he recently took his Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist exam, Marbey was just hoping to pass the test, however he aced the written test.

Battle Group Commander presents Battle 'E' plaque
Date: May 25, 1998

The Battle Group Commander presented Indy's Command Master Chief with a plaque Sunday recognizing the Independence and her crew as the 1997 Battle Efficiency Award winner.

Naval Aviator to speak at NAACP conference
Date: May 23, 1998

Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Kingg of VFA-27 has been asked by Rear Adm. Barbara McGann, Commander, Naval Recruiting Command to address approximately 400 college students at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People conference held this July 11-16 in Atlanta, Ga.

Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE last flight
Date: May 22, 1998

The final flight of any Naval Aviator is a special event, but when that aviator is CAG (Commander, Carrier Air Wing FIVE), the day has even more significance. Friday, more than twenty years after his first flight, VAW-115 hosted Captain Dick Mauldin on the last trap of his career aboard Independence.

MCPON James Herdt returns to Independence
Date: May 19, 1998

As Independence was getting underway Monday from Jebel Ali, U.A.E., more than 1,000 of her Sailors gathered in hangar bay one to welcome the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy.

Indy Sailor awarded check for suggestion to MILCAP
Date: May 7, 1998

Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (AW) Robert Canar, workcenter supervisor for Shop 64C in Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department was awarded $540 for his suggestion to the Military Cash Awards Program.

Teamwork: Chargers rescue proves vigilance pays off
Date: May 6, 1998

HS-14 Chargers and CVW-5 exemplified speed and safety in the rescue of an Indy-based F/A-18 pilot who went down with his plane, April 27th, into waters 20 miles southwest of the carrier.

Two Chippies selected for Command Advancement
Date: April 25, 1998

In a ceremony held aboard Independence, Aviation Electronics Technician 2ndClass Wayne Hatfield and Aviation Structural Mechanic (Hydraulics) 3rd Class Rowdy Darrough were promoted to AT1 and AMH2, respectively, under the Command Advancement Program.

Black Knights’ power plants ahead of schedule
Date: April 24, 1998

The Aviation Machinist’s Mates of VF-154 are ahead of schedule in complying with airframes bulletin 361. This bulletin is a safety inspection on after outboard-engine-attach lugs. Currently, the AD’s have pulled and inspected 14 engines.

Garfield salutes Indy Crewmembers
Date: April 17, 1998

Garfield, often known as a fat, lazy, wise-cracking, lasagna-eating cat cartoon showed his respects to the crew of Independence by saluting them.

Battle Force Fifth Fleet welcomes Richardson
Date: April 13, 1998

The Honorable Bill Richardson, United States Ambassador to the United Nations was aboard Independence Sunday to meet and speak with Sailors about their role in Operation Southern Watch.

United States Ambassador to the United Nations visits Independence
Date: April 12, 1998

This afternoon, the Honorable Bill Richardson, United States Ambassador to the United Nations will visit the I-5 team. While aboard, Richardson is scheduled to speak to crewmembers for a few minutes in a live SITE-TV Admiral’s Call at 4 p.m.

Documentary filming team from Nova on board Indy
Date: April 11, 1998

A six-person production crew from Nova is aboard Indy filming battle group operations for a two-hour documentary. Due to the extensive editing required for a production like Nova, this segment is expected to air this fall on the Public Broadcasting Service.

Sea Shadows Junior Sailor of the Quarter awarded
Date: April 2, 1998

Recently in Hangar Bay One, above the hum of compressors and yellow gear, VQ-5 DET 5 announced Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Jason D. Everhart as the Junior Sailor of the Quarter for the first quarter of 1998.

Golden Dragons ‘Top Hook’ winners in CVW-5
Date: April 1, 1998

The VFA-192 World Famous Golden Dragons have re-claimed the honor of being the ‘Top Hook’ squadron in Carrier Air Wing FIVE.

VF-154 TARPS goes digital; enhances battle management
Date: March 31, 1998

The Black Knights of Fighter Squadron ONE FIVE FOUR recently converted its Tactical Air Reconnaissance Pod System (TARPS) pods from conventional to digital giving the squadron the capability to record and transmit digital imagery.

VFA-27 receives nomination for CNO Safety Award
Date: March 30, 1998

VFA-27, currently in the Arabian Gulf aboard the aircraft carrier Independence, is proud to receive the nomination for the 1997 Chief of Naval Operations Annual Aviation Safety Award as the Navy’s premier safety conscious Strike Fighter Squadron.

Independence awarded the Battle "E"
Date: March 28, 1998

Independence, the oldest ship in active status, was announced as Commander, Naval Air Pacific’s Aircraft Carrier Battle Efficiency Pennant winner for 1997, recently, by the Commanding Officer, Capt. Mark R. Milliken. According to Milliken, this is the most prestigious and honorable award a ship can receive.

Liberty Bells announce Sailor of the Month for February
Date: March 27, 1998

The Liberty Bells of VAW-115 have proudly announced the Sailor of the Month for February is Avionics Technician 2nd Class Shawn L. Brown. A native of Apollo, Penn., Brown has been with the Liberty Bells for over three years. Prior to checking on board with VAW-115, he served as a Fire Control Technician...

Indy nominated for SECDEF Maintenance Award
Date: March 26, 1998

For the second straight year, Independence has been nominated for both the Secretary of Defense Phoenix Award and the Department of Defense Maintenance Awards. The nomination was sent to the Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet (CINCPACFLT) by Commander, Naval Air Forces, Pacific (CNAP), and marks the first time that an aircraft carrier has been nominated in consecutive years.

Liberty Bell Sailor receives Safety Pro Award
Date: March 25, 1998

Imagine an E-2 Hawkeye attempting to land aboard Independence. As the Hawkeye’s tailhook engages the arresting wire, the hook point abruptly shears off sending fragments of metal and sparks shooting down the flight deck while the aircraft rapidly decelerates below flying speed.

VAW-115 prepares for Group II transition
Date: March 23, 1998

In an age of rapid technological development, it's often difficult to keep up with the cutting edge. The Liberty Bells of VAW-115 are about to take a giant step toward the future of Airborne Early Warning and Command and Control when they receive four E-2C Group II aircrafts this summer.

59 new warfare specialists pinned by Rear Adm. Moore
Date: March 22, 1998

Saturday evening on the forecastle, Rear Adm. Charles W. Moore, Jr., Battle Force FIFTH Fleet, amongst a crowd of onlookers, pinned 49 new Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialists and 10 Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialists from Independence and Carrier Air Wing FIVE.

HS-14 Chargers nominated for CNO safety "S" award
Date: March 15, 1998

HS-14 recently celebrated three years, and more than 11,000 flight hours, mishap free. During this time period, the Chargers deployed safely and effectively to all corners of the Pacific...

SOM/POM: Professionalism, commitment to excellence
Date: March 13, 1998

The Independence Sailor and Petty Officer for the month of February were presented the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) yesterday morning in Auxiliary Conning by Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Independence Commanding Officer.

COMNAVAIRPAC announces Aviator of the Year
Date: March 12, 1998

Commander, Naval Air Pacific recently announced Lt. Cmdr. Yarema "Yarko" Sos as their 1997 Aviator of the Year.

The Black Knights begin new award for its workcenters
Date: March 11, 1998

During a recent award ceremony held in the forecastle aboard Independence, Fighter Squadron 154 recognized many of its top performers and announced a new award that will be presented to the best workcenter each quarter; the "BKR" award.

Prospective Petty Officers take their shot at the exams
Date: March 3, 1998

The March advancement examinations were administered to all eligible E-3 candidates on board Independence yesterday. Three hundred eighty six Sailors in 46 ratings mustered in the aft mess decks for the exam.

Indy homepage is #1 for large afloat commands
Date: March 2, 1998

The results are in for the Navy/Marine Corps News Cyber Sailor Command Homepage Challenge — and the winner for large commands afloat is Independence. More than 200 pages make up the Indy homepage...

A 1^st Class Petty Officer becomes EOOW qualified
Date: March 1, 1998

In the Engineering Department on board Independence, the highest watch standing station is Engineering Officer of the Watch. Few enlisted "blue shirts" have achieved this watch station, however Machinist Mate 1st Class (SW) Patrick Sullivan, a native of Country Club Hills, Ill., recently completed his qualifying boards and now stands the EOOW watch. Currently, only two Chief Petty Officers stand this watch

Supply Department wins award six years in a row
Date: February 27, 1998

The Independence Supply Department was recently announced as the winner of the 1997 Price Fighter Excellence Award, making this its sixth consecutive win. Submitting 810 price challenges, more than 25-percent of the entire challenges made by commands Navy wide, the Independence Supply Department saved the Navy, and taxpayers, $1,340,000 in cost avoidance.

18 Indy and Carrier Air Wing FIVE Sailors re-enlist with Montel
Date: February 26, 1998

Talk show host Montel Williams, a former Lt. Cmdr. in the U.S. Navy Reserve, recently re-enlisted 18 Sailors from Independence and Carrier Air Wing FIVE. Sailors crowded the forecastle as re-enlistees raised their right hands and recited the oath of enlistment.

Petty Officer exams are right around the corner
Date: February 25, 1998

With less than a week before the E-4 advancement exam, some Sailors are finally realizing now would be a good time to start preparing for the test. Many Sailors have their own ways to help them study for tests, while others have no idea where to start. The E-4 exam will be administered on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; the E-5 Exam will be administered on Thursday, March 5 at 6:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and the E-6 Exam will be administered on Tuesday, March 10 at 6:30 a.m.

Silver anchors aweigh for the 'Liberty Bells'
Date: February 24, 1998

For the second consecutive year, the Liberty Bells of VAW-115, Commanded by Cmdr. William Dubyak, have earned the CINCPACFLT Silver Anchor Award. This accolade recognizes the ship or squadron that reaches the second highest level of achievement in the areas of personnel advancement, education, career program management, and quality of life.

Independence welcomes Senator Robert Torricelli
Date: February 17, 1998

This afternoon, Independence and Carrier Air Wing FIVE, currently in the Arabian Gulf region, will host the Honorable Robert Torricelli, (D) U.S. Senator from N.J.

During the Senator’s overnight visit, he will be touring the Hard Rock Café on the after mess decks, the F/A-18 simulator, and the Tactical Flag Command Center. Torricelli will also be eating dinner with Sailors and Marines from his home state.

1,000th carrier arresting for Air Operations Officer, Cmdr. Lang
Date: February 16, 1998

Cmdr. Thomas Lang, Air Operations Officer for Independence, recently reached a milestone in his naval career by making his 1,000th arrested landing while flying with Fighter Squadron 154 during a mission in support of Operation Southern Watch.

Indy MWR is 1st place winner of the Fleet Recreations Awards program, again
Date: February 14, 1998

Independence's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation office was recently awarded first place in the annual Fleet Recreation Awards Program. This is the third consecutive year that MWR has won this award.

Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Indy's Commanding Officer, presented the first prize award - a $2,000 dollar check to the MWR office.

Sailor, Petty Officer of the Month both from Supply
Date: February 13, 1998

Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Commanding Officer, recently announced the first Independence Sailor and Petty Officer for 1998. Aviation Storekeeper Airman Phong Mai, from Santa Ana, Calif. and Storekeeper 3rd Class (SW) Terran Bellamy, a native of North Myrtle Beach S.C. were awarded the honor of Sailor and Petty Officer of the Month, respectively. Both will be presented the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal by Milliken.

Keeping Independence on course with help from stars
Date: February 4, 1998

Technology has graced Independence with instant access to information, hot food, e-mail, live televised state-side programming, cold sodas, telephones, video games, and the list goes on depending on how far back in time you want to travel.

Former XO comes back to work on Independence
Date: February 3, 1998

Who says you can't come home again? Capt. Jim Joyner (ret. USN) has returned to USS Independence (CV 62) for the first time since serving as the executive officer here from 1980-1982.

Joyner, who retired from the Navy in 1991 after 30 years of service, now works for Boeing as the Aircrew Training Group Manager for the Carrier Based Weapons Systems Trainer (CV-WST). He's on board to help teach the training officers and pilots from the three F/A-18 squadrons from Carrier Air Wing FIVE on how to use the CV-WST, the first flight simulator installed on an aircraft carrier.

Independence takes time out to observe Black History Month
Date: February 2, 1998

More than 200 Independence Sailors and Marines gathered together in Hangar Bay One Sunday to kick-off this year's Black History Month celebration.

Avionics Master Chief (AW) Ruel A. Odom, Carrier Air Wing Five's Command Master Chief, provided the opening speech. Odom has been in the Navy for more than 26 years. During these years of service, he's been a Command Master Chief at four different commands throughout the Navy.

Eight new computers in the LRC are for crews' use
Date: February 1, 1998

Within the last ten years, the U.S. Navy has been caught in the middle of change, especially on aircraft carriers. Seven years ago, public telephone service (INMARSAT) was introduced; within the last five years, women have permanently reported aboard all but one carrier; and in more recent years, satellite television has premiered on the floating cities.

Main Steam holds off Marines to win Marathon
Date: January 30, 1998

Today, a recorded 592 Sailors and Marines participated in the Black History Month/Indian Ocean Marathon Relay on the flight deck of USS Independence (CV 62) as the carrier steamed towards the Arabian Gulf.

The relay marathon featured 20, seven-man teams competing for cash prizes, which were provided by the ship's Morale Welfare and Recreation office. There were also more than twenty other teams that got together to run the race for fun. These teams had more than seven members. The teams divided up the required 70 lap, 26.5 mile course set up on the 1,080 foot Independence.

SOM/POM: Two Indy Sailors go above and beyond
Date: January 29, 1998

Capt. Mark Milliken, Commanding Officer, recently awarded Independence's Sailor and Petty Officer for the month of December in Auxiliary Conning.

Radioman Seaman Apprentice Matthew Wilson, from Dowagiac, Mich. and Aviation Boatswain's Mate Handler 2nd Class (AW) Glen Newbins, a native of Denver, Col. were awarded the honor of Sailor and Petty Officer of the Month, respectively, receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for their accomplishment.

Indy receives extra Sailors from other commands
Date: January 27, 1998

With the upcoming decommissioning, USS Independence's crew has been slowly diminishing. Many departments have fallen below their normal manning requirements - a normal routine when a ship enters its final remaining months. However, Indy is a unique ship that performs operations uniquely.

The Marine Corps is back on Indy to provide security
Date: January 27, 1998

When transiting the ship, the Marines in their all green camouflage uniforms stand out next to Independence Sailors in their blue dungarees. But lately, it's been hard to find the them on board. More than two months ago, the Marine detachment was disestablished. However, with Indy's recent unscheduled deployment to the Arabian Gulf to relieve USS Nimitz (CVN 68), Marines have returned to the ship.

Super Bowl XXXII on Independence, LIVE!
Date: January 26, 1998

As USS Independence (CV 62) refueled along side USNS Yukon, while en route to the Arabian Gulf, Sailors here were also enjoying one of Americas' most treasured traditions, the Super Bowl.

Black Knights hold the LANTIRN of the future
Date: January 24, 1998

Using infrared lasers and global positioning, the Low-Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared System for Night Targeting is transforming the aging Tomcats of Fighter Squadron 154 attached to USS Independence (CV 62), into the most advanced and deadliest aircraft in the Navy.

"Freedom's Flagship" leaves Japan to relieve Nimitz
Date: January 23, 1998

In the movie "Independence Day," the President played by Bill Pullman said, "We will not go quietly into the night; we will not die without a fight!" USS Independence (CV-62) definitely isn't going to take its upcoming decommissioning quietly. Yesterday, at 9:58 am, the 39-year-old Forrestal class aircraft carrier got underway for the Arabian Gulf along with USS John S. McCain (DDG 56), and USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) . USS Charlotte (SSN-766), which will join Indy's Battle Group, departed Yokosuka, Japan a few days prior.

Secretary of Defense visits Independence Sailors
Date: January 21, 1998

Secretary of Defense William Cohen spoke to the crew of USS Independence (CV 62) aboard the flight deck officially announcing the Independence's deployment to the Arabian Gulf.

Cohen said Independence would relieve the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) to keep the presence of America in the Gulf as a reminder to Saddam Hussein that he needs to comply with the United Nations resolutions.

Independence Sailors celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday
Date: January 19, 1998

Sailing on the open sea doesn't stop Independence Sailors from celebrating great men who have changed the course of American history.

CVW-5 trains F/A-18 pilots with latest and greatest
Date: January 18, 1998

F/A-18 pilots aboard USS Independence (CV 62) now have the opportunity to fly 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and in any weather. Recently, Boeing shipped and installed the first ever Carrier based-Weapons System Trainer (CV-WST) to help pilots on Independence simulate flying the F/A-18 in a variety of scenarios.

The CV-WST is the first simulator installed on any aircraft carrier and the first Navy device built specifically for the Navy by Boeing. It has been in use since January 14 and so far is receiving soaring reviews.

Must 'sea' TV - Sailors get direct feed
Date: January 17, 1998

As an Independence Sailor, you are always reminded of the fact that you are on the oldest ship in the U.S. Navy, a ship which was commissioned back in 1959. This was a time when the only form of movie entertainment for the crew was a projected show ...

Quality service is #1 for Sailor of the Year
Date: January 14, 1998

Disbursing Clerk 1st Class (SW) Renato Mayo of Olongapo City, Philippines was awarded this honor. He's also the Supervisor of the Quarter for the fourth quarter. Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Commanding Officer of Independence presented Mayo with a wooden plaque in the shape of the ship.

Happy Birthday to America's Oldest and Finest
Date: January 9, 1998

It was evident that Japan was in the midst of winter, as the slush and snow blanketed the flight deck and surrounding pier of USS Independence recently. The harsh weather conditions were a gentle reminder of what the weather was like 39 years ago in the Brooklyn Naval Shipyard as thousands gathered for the unveiling of the Navy's newest ship. After her January 10th commissioning...

The ‘tele’wave of the future sweeps Indy
Date: November 20, 1997

The 21-inch television monitor and video camera was placed before Moore and Capt. John Brandes, CTF-70 Chief of Staff. From their seats in the Flag War Room aboard Indy, they were able to see a live video image of the lobby in the Sheraton. In there, members of AFCEA gathered around their television to ask questions regarding the Indy Battle Group’s capability to produce VTC ...

Virginia Congressman visits Indy
Date: November 19, 1997

Most of the distinguished guests that visit USS Independence, do so when the ship is at sea. Visitors then get a first hand account of shipboard life as the carrier participates in operations and exercises, and while the aircraft are embarked. However, Indy doesn’t have to be underway to welcome honored guests aboard ...

SOM/POM: Dedication to duty and commitment to excellence
Date: November 12, 1997
Independence’s Sailor and Petty Officer for the month of October were recently awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM) in Wardroom II Lounge. Mess Management Specialist Seaman (SW) Derrick Cooper, a native of Galveston, Texas and Aviation Electronics Technician Second Class (AW/SW) George Zintak, from Chicago, Ill. were awarded the honor of Sailor and Petty Officer of the Month, respectively ...

Without slowing down, Indy heads into ANNUALEX
Date: November 6, 1997

The only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier, USS Independence, has completed her mission in the bilateral multi-service exercise FOAL EAGLE '97. With the gratification of a job well done, the carrier's attention is now focusing on the next exercise at hand, ANNUALEX.

Commander U.S. Forces Korea calls on Indy
Date: November 4, 1997

In the past two days, there has been more brass aboard Independence, then at a Boston Pops concert. The flight deck was recently cleared for the arrival of Air Force Lt. Gen. Joseph Hurd, Commander 7th Air Force, who flew aboard in the back seat of an F-14 Tomcat. His over night stay included a tour of the ship and meetings with Rear Adm. Charles W. Moore, Jr. Battle Force SEVENTH Fleet.

The 'Eagle' has landed: Indy concludes FOAL EAGLE
Date: November 4, 1997

It's been rather chilly the past two and a half weeks for the crewmembers of Independence and Carrier Air Wing FIVE operating off the east coast of South Korea. Today marks the conclusion of the bilateral multi-service exercise FOAL EAGLE '97 which Indy has been a part of.

Indy welcomes high ranking officials
Date: October 29, 1997

Since the beginning of the bilateral, combined military exercise between the Republic of Korea and the United States known as FOAL EAGLE, dignitaries of both the Korean military and national government have flown out to get a glimpse of what every Sailor sees daily.

TSTAII and FEP: Six days of intense training
Date: October 26, 1997

Independence crewmembers had the chance to show several Afloat Training Group members what they were made of yesterday evening as they fought fires and participated in a multi-hour General Quarters.

This GQ marked the conclusion of the fourth and final session of ATG’s training and evaluation, which tests the knowledge and skills of Indy’s Sailors during critical underway evolution’s ...

Hard work pays off for these AO SOM/POM
Date: October 25, 1997

Independence's Sailor and Petty Officer for the month of September were recently named by Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Indy's Commanding Officer.

Korean-American Sailor visits DMZ and North Korea
Date: October 25, 1997

Panmunjom - or 'Peace Village'. The name by itself means very little, if nothing to most Americans. However, should the term 38th parallel or Demilitarized Zone surface, a whole new meaning is brought to light. Over 75,000 non-Koreans visit Ponmunjom each year to get a first hand look at the history which surrounds this 44 year old border between North and South Korea.

Indy is pro-active 'fighting' Domestic Violence
Date: October 25, 1997

Behind the closed doors of many American households lies a problem that only in the last few years has surfaced. This blister on the American family has grabbed the attention of most Americans and especially the president, when he declared last year that October is to be Domestic Violence Prevention Month.

Indy gives time and effort to the children of Pusan
Date: October 25, 1997

The ship's appearance, the crew's behavior ashore, and the tours hosted are all factors that determine a successful port visit and a good image left with the host country. But very rarely does the impact of a community relations project (COMREL) fall behind any of the above mentioned factors.

U.S. and South Korea: Two allies merge in exercise FOAL EAGLE '97
Date: October 21, 1997

The late morning sun pierced the dense haze yesterday as Independence cruised away from Pusan, South Korea to soar into exercise FOAL EAGLE '97.

Gauntlets Recognize Superior Performance
Date: October 16, 1997

During their first squadron quarters under new CO CDR J.R. Mathis, a number of "Ironclaws" received awards for their efforts at the "tip of the spear".

Lasting memories for guests are made on Indy
Date: October 4, 1997

Today, as many as 4,000 family members, friends, and guests went underway with the crew of Independence for an annual one day Friendship Cruise.

Happy Birthday to the 'Royal' family
Date: September 26, 1997

As a busy September at sea period comes to a close, The Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron TWENTY SEVEN, (VFA 27) celebrate thirty years of excellence.

'Valiant Blitz' is a success for Independence
Date: September 25, 1997

After two days of bilateral carrier air operations in the Philippine Sea, exercise VALIANT BLITZ concluded recently.

Ready, Aim, Fire!
Date: September 23, 1997

Independence successfully demonstrated its ability to defend itself against high speed air threats yesterday morning with the NATO Seasparrow Surface Missile System.

Indy participates in DOD Safety Standdown
Date: September 23, 1997

After the successful completion of TSTA II, the crew of Independence has proven that despite working in an unpredictable environment, under stressful situations, no task is too difficult to complete. This positive assessment was reached after performing various general quarters drills, mass casualty scenarios, and many man overboard drills.

TSTA puts Indy to the test

Many Independence Sailors have rolled down their sleeves and donned their flash gear for the second of three Total Ship's Training Assessments or TSTA II.

Indy celebrates Hispanic Heritage

Most elementary school children learn that the Spanish were one of many ethnic groups involved in early exploration of the New Worlds (or America.) They had set up colonies long before the British in the early 1500's in areas we know today as Texas, Florida, Colorado, California, and New Mexico. Since then, the Spanish have been exposed to many different cultures from around the world, and the result has been a unique blend of people who today we call Hispanics.

Indy welcomes JMSDF Chief of Staff

Recently, USS Independence had the unique honor of welcoming aboard the highest uniformed officer in the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, Adm. Kazuya Natsukawa.

Hard work pays off for SOM/POM/SOQ

Independence's Sailor and Petty Officer for the month of August as well as the Supervisor of the Quarter were recently named by Capt. Mark R. Milliken, Indy's Commanding Officer.

It's advancement time for Indy again

980 Sailors aboard Independence, ranks E-3 to E-5, have finished putting their rating knowledge to the test.

Indy gives back to the city of Otaru

It was evident to most Sailors upon entering the port of Otaru that many eyes and cameras were focusing on our visit. Aside from all the media and ship visitors, there was a small percentage of Otaru's population who was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Sailors who would be participating in the community relations projects.

140,000 Visit INDEPENDENCE

Otaru, Japan - Approximately 140,000 people visited USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6 and 7, during a port call to Otaru, Japan. This was the first time INDEPENDENCE has made a port call to a civilian port in Japan. Since 1991, INDEPENDENCE has resided in Yokosuka, Japan as the U.S. Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier.

Friends

On August 24, the aircraft carrier USS Independence (CV 62) took part in Yokosuka Naval Base's Friendship Day by hosting a general ship's visit in Hangar Bays 1 & 2.

QOL still at top of Indy's list of 'to-do's'

Under the Navy's Career Information Program OPNAV 1040.1D, USS Independence (CV 62) receives an annual assessment of her career information programs to judge how well they are working, and if they are working.

Legacy of friendship continues

The second atomic bomb, which exploded in Nagasaki, Japan during the end of World War II, changed her life forever. At the age of eight, her mother was dead and soon after, her father passed away because of radiation sickness. Even with all this hardship, and living with her financially stricken relatives, Mitoko Yamachi was able to find joy in school and the Sailors of the destroyer USS Walke. They played softball with her, showed her the ship, and eventually established a $4,000 trust fund to enable her to finish high school.

Who is Mr. Navy?

Distinguished visitors are nothing new to the crew of USS Independence CV 62, and rightfully so, since Indy is the only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy. A constant American ambassador in Yokosuka, Japan and while deployed throughout the Western Pacific, Indy has been host to some of Southeast Asia's top government, military, and civilian leaders. However, amidst all of these "DV" visits, there is one individual who Indy always welcomes with open arms, complete with arrival honors - Mr. Ichiro Masuoka.

Four star visits Japan, listens to Sailors needs

Quality of life, Warfare programs, manning problems and solutions, training logistics and more were topics addressed and discussed with Independence Battle Group Sailors by the Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Independence Celebrates Final Change-of-Command

USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62), Yokosuka, Japan - A change-of-command ceremony was held in USS Independence's Hangar Bay 1, berth 8-9, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, at 10 a.m. August 12. Capt. Mark R. Milliken officially took command of the Independence.

USS KITTY HAWK to Replace USS INDEPENDENCE

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), homeported in San Diego, California, will depart 15 July 1998 for Yokosuka, Japan, where it will replace USS Independence (CV 62) as part of a planned rotation of forward-deployed naval forces.

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