Vice Adm. Andrew “Woody” Lewis, commander of the recently reestablished U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F), visited the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Aug. 27.

Lewis, escorted by Lt. Gen. Robert. F. Hedelund, commanding general, II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF), observed tactical, and command and control visit, board, search and seizure operations as well as learned about the seaport capabilities afforded by Kearsarge’s well deck operations and expansive medical support capabilities offered by the ship's hospital services.

Kearsarge and II MEF were the first official stops since Lewis assumed command Friday.

The newly reinstated C2F was officially stood up on Aug. 24, as a “dynamic response to a dynamic security environment,” said Chief of U.S. Naval Operations, Adm. John Richardson.  “The recreation of the 2nd Fleet, represents the establishment of a well forged fighting force with a fighting mindset, restoring a largescale ocean maneuver warfare formation dedicated to the Atlantic Ocean.” 

C2F will exercise operational and administrative authorities over assigned ships, aircraft and landing forces on the East Coast and North Atlantic.  Additionally, it will plan and conduct maritime, joint and combined operations and will train and recommend certification of combat ready naval forces for maritime employment and operations around the globe.

The way ahead for C2F and II MEF is a combined singular effort.

In addition to Sailors up and down the East Coast, and the Military Sea Lift Command, “Second Fleet includes our Marine Corps brothers and sisters,” said Lewis. “We will work closely with the Second Marine Expeditionary Force in training and operations.” 

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is currently underway for ARG, Marine Expeditionary Unit exercise (ARGMEUEX).

ARGMEUEX enhances joint integration, lethality and collective capabilities of the Navy-Marine Corps team through joint planning and execution of challenging and realistic training scenarios.

The group is preparing for an upcoming deployment.

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