Guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) held a damage control (DC) competition between junior officers and the chiefs, while underway in the Mediterranean, June 23.
The event, held on the flight deck, that consisted of a relay between five different events, including pipe-patching repair; de-smoking a space; chemical-biological-radiological (CBR) response and firefighting ensemble (FFE) dress-out races.
“This competition is a really good opportunity to keep Sailors sharp on the damage control procedures,” said Chief Damage Controlman Reginald Pridgen. “It is also a morale booster. Win or lose, there’s nothing like a friendly competition to motivate a crew.”
The chiefs dominated the relay finishing the events with an overall time of 28 minutes and 41 seconds – nine seconds faster than Gravely’s junior officers. Sailors were able to apply their knowledge in a fun and competitive atmosphere event aboard Gravely, while earning bragging rights and a plaque.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Chief Electrician’s Mate Brian Morse “It was beneficial for everyone to be able to have hands-on learning with the equipment.”
Gravely, homeported in Norfolk, Va., is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
[mappress] Press Release, June 26, 2013; Image: US Navy