Makin Island Sailors Participate in "Earth Day" Base Cleanup Project

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- More than 40 Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) took to the streets on board Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) for a special "Earth Day" cleanup project April 22.


During the base-wide event volunteers from dozens of shore and afloat commands located aboard NBSD divided into sectors to remove trash and other non-biodegradable debris, enhancing the overall appearance of the base as well as promoting environmental awareness.

According to Ens. Kyle Holtz, Makin Island's second division officer and "Green Team" coordinator, the worldwide theme for this year's Earth Day celebration was "Global reach - location actions."

"The chance to participate in this base clean-up was not only to provide our Sailors with the opportunity to observe and educate them on Earth Day, but also to raise awareness on the importance of environmental protection and energy conservation throughout the base," said Holtz.

Holtz said Makin Island has a reputation for being environmentally conscious, not just because of the ship's fuel-saving technology, but because of the responsible actions of command personnel.

"Since our return from deployment, Makin Island and our Green Team have continued to lead recycling and energy conservation efforts," said Holtz. "Not only have we increased pier-side recycling opportunities, but we are continually working to uncover new ways to lessen our footprint.

"Earth Day is an excellent reminder for Makin Island Sailors, regardless of location or duties assigned, that we have an obligation to preserve our planet and its natural resources," said Holtz.

Sailors who participated in the NBSD Earth Day project said they enjoyed the opportunity to make a difference on board NBSD.

"This was a great opportunity not only to improve the appearance of our base, but also work together with the many Sailors from our partner commands," said Ship's Serviceman 1st Class Wilson Brown. "All the work done here is by volunteers and the work that these Sailors did today will make a huge difference."

Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970 as a way to focus attention on the need for cleaner air and water as well as promoting renewable energy sources and recycling. More than 190 countries celebrate Earth Day and more than one billion people take part in Earth Day activities each year.

Makin Island returned from a seven-month deployment June 22, making history as the first U.S. Navy ship to deploy using a hybrid-electric propulsion system. By using this unique propulsion system, the ship saved over $15 million in fuel costs and the Navy expects to see fuel cost savings of more than $250 million, over the course of the ship's lifecycle. Lessons learned during Makin Island's maiden deployment prove the Navy's commitment to energy awareness and conservation and will positively influence future ship designs for several decades.

This initiative is one of many throughout the Navy and Marine Corps that will enable the Department of the Navy to achieve the Secretary of the Navy's energy goals to improve our energy security and efficiency afloat and ashore, increase our energy independence and help lead the nation toward a clean energy economy.

The ship is currently undergoing a planned maintenance availability (PMA) at Naval Base San Diego. During this seven month PMA period, Makin Island will receive numerous equipment upgrades, modernization, and general repairs. The PMA period will also help to ensure the ship will reach the full service life of at least 40 years.

For more news from USS Makin Island (LHD 8), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd8/.