USS Gravely Sailors Compete at Damage Control

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.

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Press Release, June 26, 2013; Image: US Navy