As part of its "Meet the Fleet" initiative, junior Sailors from Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella (FLCSI) visited USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20), Oct. 31, during the ship's port visit to Augusta Bay, Italy.

The purpose of the visit was to help the Sailors better understand how the partnership between an operational shore command and the fleet enables a logistically smooth port visit. These junior Sailors have yet to serve on a ship and this particular "Meet the Fleet" experience provided on-the-job training on how an operational shore command supports the fleet.

Throughout their time at the pier and aboard Mount Whitney, the group was briefed on the logistics requirement process, husbanding service provider (HSP) contracting support, the port visit task order, and the role of a logistics support Sailor as they ensure proper execution of the aforementioned tasks.

"All Sailors, junior or senior, are required to qualify as a logistics support representative apprentice as a part of the NAVSUP FLCSI command, and this type of hands-on training and instruction is significantly more helpful than classroom discussion," said Lt. Derek Roncaioli, the logistics support officer who arranged the visit.

The group was provided a tour of the ship, including quality-of-life support operations such as the barber shop, ship store, galley, postal, supply storerooms, and various unique features of the Blue Ridge-class ship.

During the port visit, the HSP and Logistics Support Center Team loaded four pallets (124 pounds) of provisions, 60 pallets (15,700 pounds) of cargo, 17 pieces (52 pounds) of mail, and 35 pallets of small arms ammunition. Additionally, they delivered 440 pounds of retrograde mail for processing, and shipped 51 pallets (two semi-trucks full) of miscellaneous cargo to Gaeta, Italy, for the ship's return to homeport.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global logistics Support (GLS), which provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

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