USA: NAS Jacksonville Hosts CNIC

Commander, Navy Installations Command Vice Adm. William French conducted a familiarization tour of Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Aug. 30 after also visiting Naval Station Mayport. 

The admiral began the day by participating in an all-hands morning quarters at the Building 1 flagpole where he also presented several awards to NAS Jax Sailors.

“I am glad to be here with you today to learn what we can do at headquarters to allow you to do your job better in supporting the fleet,” French told the Sailors and civilians. “I’m excited to see all the great things that are happening at NAS Jacksonville.”

French also stressed the importance of spending time with families and friends during the past holiday weekend, and reminded the troops about safety concerns. “Labor Day is one of the busiest times on the highways and we want everyone to return here safely after the long holiday weekend.”

French then met with base leadership and department heads for a roundtable discussion about various issues concerning the mission and services of the station.

“It’s important for us to know your challenges out here in order to get an appreciation of how we prioritize issues and the impact our decisions have on you,” French stated.

The admiral spent the morning visiting several Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities including the newly renovated base gym, fitness center, childcare and youth centers, barracks, Transient Personnel Unit/Pre-Trial Confinement Facility and Air Operations.

French also joined a group of chief petty officer selectees from NAS Jax and tenant commands for lunch at the Flight Line Cafe where he praised them for their accomplishment.

“This is a great opportunity for you to make a difference on many levels and will give you more ability to impact those around you,” said French. “I wish you all the best in your new roles as chief petty officers.”

For Chief (Select) Hospital Corpsman Rebecca Green of Naval Hospital Jacksonville, it was an opportunity she had never experienced.

“This was the first time, I’ve ever had lunch with an admiral and I thought it was pretty awesome that he took the time to meet with us. It was nice to get a senior officer’s insight on the chief’s induction season and I’m just proud to be here today and proud to serve,” she said.

According to NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Roy Undersander the visit was extremely productive and successful.

“CNIC putting eyes on NAS Jax and coming here to learn about the mission that we are executing and the challenging issues we are facing will pay dividends in the future for the installation,” said Undersander.

“I’m extremely proud of our Sailors and civilians and it was a privilege to showcase all that we achieve here day in and day out,” he added.

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Press Release, September 04, 2013; Image: NAS