From September 18-21, 30 Naval Supply Systems Command Business Systems Center (NAVSUP BSC) employees had the opportunity to participate in a "Meet the Fleet" trip. The purpose of the trip is to offer the group an opportunity to see first-hand how NAVSUP BSC supports the Fleet by Accelerating Digital Solutions.

This year's trip began with a visit to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, located just outside of Quantico, Virginia. The museum displayed memorabilia dating back to World War I and was a great reminder of the Marine Corps customer that NAVSUP BSC supports. Once the group arrived in Norfolk, they toured Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) "Always Faithful Always Strong." The theme tells the story of the ship and the crew. The day concluded with a submarine tour, something that has been requested for years and was finally granted. Photos were not permitted but everyone left in awe of this eye-opening tour.

On September 19, the day began on Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) "Defending the Constitution." Next, the group toured the brand new aircraft carrier class, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), where they learned how this impressive vessel is critical to national security. The final tour for the day was Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5). Not only did the group get to tour the helicopter, but the military shared real-life stories. Their mission is search, rescue, provide supplies and support. The day concluded with a trip to the largest Navy Exchange in the country, serving the largest Navy base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk.

The group started with a visit to Navy Exchange Service Command's (NEXCOM) for a tour of the state-of-the-art Northeast Distribution Center (NEDC) Center Point Intermodal Center in Suffolk, Virginia September 20. The group was in awe of the cleanliness, organization, and teamwork on display at this facility.

Next, the group visited Assault Craft Unit FOUR (ACU-4) at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek. The Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) has a unique capability to move seamlessly from land to sea. The group met a crew that was passionate about what they do and were very proud and excited to share information about the team and their unique capabilities. The final tour of the day was a tour of Naval Special Warfare Group 2 Logistics and Support Unit (LOGSU).

The team went to Naval Air Station Oceana September 21, the "Navy's East Coast Master Jet Base" and home to F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets. As the group arrived, they could see and hear the aircraft flying overhead. The group was very impressed with the aircraft, hangar and support facilities, as well as the aircrew they were able to meet. They also toured a warehouse facility and learned how Navy ERP played a critical role in the functioning of the supply department. They learned about aviation support division (ASD) and the role they play in aircraft readiness. The group was reminded that it takes several teams working together to successfully support the Fleet.

The entire team from NAVSUP BSC was very appreciative of this educational opportunity. Comments include, "There has to be a height limitation to work on the submarine," and "I am so impressed with all the tours." "To be able to see first-hand the individuals and organizations that use the products that I work on is a wonderful experience. It motivates me to work harder."


For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more information on Naval Supply Systems Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/navsup/