USS Gettysburg Makes 1000th Safe Helicopter Landing of 2013

Guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) accomplished its 1,000th helicopter landing of 2013 Aug. 16, while conducting maritime security operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

Embarked Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) 74 Detachment 2, played a major part in helping Gettysburg reach the milestone.

Lt. Michael Mueller, who coordinates the safe landing of helicopters on board Gettysburg, works closely with HSM 74.

“Every time we conduct operations with helicopters there is a feeling of accomplishment, knowing that we are contributing to the bigger mission,” said Mueller, one of the ship’s helicopter control officers. “The flight crew works with professionalism, intensity and concentration.”

Crew members who work on the flight deck are trained in conducting helicopter operations with many types of helicopters in varying seas. Their responsibilities include guiding helicopters as they land, securing helicopters to the flight deck and refueling them.

“It is exciting to be a part of the ship and to support a variety of missions,” said Aviation Electrician’s Mate 1st Class William Winistorfer. “We are able to set the example for our country and improve lives by assisting with medical emergencies as we contribute to the bigger mission. People are always excited to see what the ship and crew contribute to make helicopter operations successful.”

Helicopters embarked on Gettysburg are capable of supporting medical evacuations, search and rescue operations, vertical replenishments, personnel transfers, and air, surface, and submarine warfare operations.

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Press Release, August 20, 2013; Image: Navy