Shipmates,
After departing EAGLE last Thursday, I visited both DALLAS and GALLATIN. Both vessels are drydocked together in the same graving dock at Detyens Shipyard (former Charleston Naval Shipyard). I walked through both vessels and met with the COs, followed by an all hands on the dock below the vessels.
This is a tough availability for the crews who are working long hours, standing fire watches, and carrying out unit level work lists. A significant issue has been heat and portable air conditioning units have been installed to lower temperatures.
I visited the spaces on GALLATIN that were damaged in the recent fire. Our MISHAP team is on scene.
I stressed in my remarks to the crews that I appreciated their hard work and the terrific effort being expended to get these cutters back to sea.
We will continue to press for funding for the cutter fleet, as we move forward to deliver the National Security Cutters and begin the design of the Offshore Patrol Cutter.
Again, my thanks to the crews for the outstanding work they are doing,
ADM A
