Boxer Replenishment Demonstrates 1,000-Ship Navy"Concept

USS Boxer (LHD 4) conducted an underway replenishment with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary support tanker HMS Bayleaf (A109) Jan. 10, while performing Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Persian Gulf. The replenishment represents Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Mike Mullen’s vision of a “1,000-ship Navy,” a vision of international partner navies working together to create a force greater than the sum of its individual parts. “The replenishment took place to ensure that Boxer could successfully perform a refueling with another [coalition] ship,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Mark Fletcher, who helped oversee the replenishment.

Boxer addressed several logistical details before fueling with the Bayleaf, including connecting fuel probes, checking fuel quality, and calculating the quantity of fuel received. “The British measure volumes of fuel in cubic liters,” said Fletcher. “We had to convert the cubic liters to gallons to make sure we were getting an adequate supply of fuel.” Boxer’s crew also conducted a fuel quality test. “Foreign fuel samples must be tested for sediment, purity, flash point and other properties,” added Fletcher. “This is standard procedure for the Navy to make sure the fuel is up to our quality standards.” At the end of the safe and successful refueling, Boxer continued on with its mission after working with its coalition partner. “The 1,000 ship Navy brings together our friends and allies to create a huge fleet that draws on the strengths and capabilities of each,” said Mullen in a recent issue of All Hands magazine. Boxer is the flagship for BOXESG which is currently operating in the Persian Gulf conducting MSO in support of U.S. 5th Fleet. MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. Source: NavNews

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brian Gaines, USS Boxer Public Affairs