BY LT. CHRISTOPHER BROWN, SUPPLY OFFICER USS SPRUANCE (DDG 111)
USS Spruance (DDG 111) hosted a visit by NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support (WSS) Commander Rear Adm. Duke Heinz August 24.
Heinz received an overview of guided missile destroyer mission capability and discussed future deployment models, critical systems, and key watch areas for material support. [capt
] “We have exceptional Sailors who will be the tip of the spear in future operations,” said Cmdr. Josh Menzel, commanding officer, USS Spruance (DDG 111). “We cannot effectively do our jobs if our equipment doesn’t work. I greatly appreciate Rear Adm. Heinz taking the time to come to the fleet and see the material and parts challenges first-hand. The continued efforts of the NAVSUP WSS team are key to the fleet’s ability to successfully complete our mission.” Heinz and Menzel also discussed the accomplishments and challenges of critical mission systems aboard Spruance in order to facilitate better supply support and process improvement across the board. “Every ship’s capability suite provides the operational commander tools to achieve effects,” Heinz said, “and NAVSUP WSS is focused on the material readiness of those tools. NAVSUP is committed to being agile and responsive in supporting the warfighter.” During the visit, a supply department all hands call was held where special recognition was given to Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Erica Reddick, Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Melricca Hunter, and Seaman Recruit James Ramsdell. A question–and–answer session with the department focused on topics ranging from changes to senior enlisted sea to shore rotation to supply rating manning levels across the NAVSUP Enterprise. Heinz conveyed to the fleet the importance of their supply roles within the operational environment. At the conclusion of the visit, Heinz expressed his confidence in the Sailors’ ability to continue to provide world-class supply support for the crew aboard Spruance and looked forward to witnessing their continued success as they progress with their operational schedule. November/December 2017