Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) are attending the first command indoctrination workshop of the ship’s maiden deployment.
The command indoctrination workshop seeks to provide n newly reporting Sailors with a base-level of knowledge on the ship to allow for a successful and career-enhancing tour.
Command Master Chief (SW/SS) Raymond Chamberlain said his hope is Sailors will leave the workshop with a better outlook on their ship, their time aboard and beyond.
“We hope these workshops empower our Sailors with knowledge, not just for the ship or their department but for their own lives and careers,” said Chamberlain. “ A more informed Sailor is a better Sailor, and I hope and believe that is what we are producing through the command indoctrination program.”
The workshop is a three-week long course which covers many topics such as career counseling, basic damage control, sexual assault prevention, medical programs and fleet and family support services.
Command indoctrination workshop coordinator, Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Stephanie Golff, said the workshop gives Sailors a leg up on achieving career milestones.
“When you leave command indoctrination you are going to be basic damage control qualified and basic material maintenance management program qualified. That is going to benefit you immensely when dealing with your day-to-day operations on the ship, ” said Golff. “ The Sailors will also be ready to begin the process of getting their enlisted surface warfare specialist qualification which enhances their careers and opens the door to continue their Navy service.”
Seaman Mariela Garcia said the command indoctrination workshop made her more aware of the many services and opportunities that would be available onboard.
“Now I basically know who I need to talk to about any program or issue that comes up while I’m on the ship ,” said Garcia. “ I’m planning on striking for a rate soon, so this information is very important to me. I was really pleased with the information that was passed and it definitely gave me a better outlook on the ship and crew.”
Jason Dunham is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Theater security cooperation (TSC) efforts in the U.S. tth and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. Jason Dunham is deployed as part of Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which includes CSG 8, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66), guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99), USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), the seven squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW 7), and Destroyer Squadron 28.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , June 29, 2012