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The ship's crew faced several potential challenges
when getting underway after the long maintenance period such as a successful
start-up of the ship's engines, a safe sea and anchor detail, and efficient
restricted maneuvering evolution. As it turned out, all major systems
worked flawlessly, and the crew executed a safe and successful day one
underway.
"Our biggest concern was doing everything safely and making sure
no one got hurt," said Chief Boatswain's Mate Christopher Tunal,
first division leading chief petty officer. "We did a very good
job of getting people underway on various ships throughout the fleet,
so every new Sailor on board had at least two or three underways under
their belt. By doing that, we were able to bring America the experience
we needed to get her underway."
Many of the crew members said they were excited to be finished with
the availability and anxious to test the ship's capabilities.
"I'm excited because ships are meant to be at sea and Sailors are
meant to be on ships," said Ensign Timothy Rose, conning officer
during the first sea and anchor detail. "Really, getting underway
allows us to fully do our jobs and show what we are made of."
For a good many of the newest crew members who checked aboard during
PSA, this underway represents the first time they were doing their jobs
underway.
"This is my first underway in my new rate and I'm excited to learn
more about my job," said Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical)
3rd Class Shawn Magill. "Now that we're underway, and our equipment
is up and running, I get to see new aspects of my job."
The completion of America's PSA period marks a key milestone in the
ship's history. With this major work complete on schedule, America is
now ready to continue her mission as an aviation-centric amphibious
assault ship; a true force multiplier to the Expeditionary Strike Group,
the Navy and the United States.
America's Commanding Officer, Capt. Wayne Baze, said, "I could
not be prouder of this fine ship and the wonderful Sailors and Marines
who continue to give her life. It is good to be at sea again where America
belongs."
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