The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) successfully completed its certification for fueling-at-sea (FAS) during a FAS with the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) March 11.

Due to equipment and scheduling issues, Iwo Jima had been unable to recertify after last completing a FAS nearly five years ago, according to Lt. LT Nate McCoy, Iwo Jima's Main Propulsion Assistant.

Iwo Jima's Bo's'n, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Bernard Hall, stressed the significance of the evolution and what the capability of conducting a FAS brings to a strike group or amphibious readiness group.

"It is part of our qualifications for Mobility Seaman (MOB-S) certification, said Hall. "If there comes a time when you are with other ships and there are no refueling capabilities, then the ship is the most available and accessible asset to smaller vessels."

Chief Boatswain's Mate Devon Seitz commented on the experience and what it felt like on the deckplates.

"The evolution was exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time," said Seitz. "I couldn't be any prouder of the ship as a whole. It's amazing what Sailors are capable of doing even when the ship hasn't done it for so long."

Hall shared Seitz's sentiments and said he was also very pleased with his Sailors' accomplishment.

"All the stars lined up, so we got it knocked out and that's a great feeling," said Hall. "It was a great win for deck department and a great win for Iwo Jima."

Iwo Jima is currently in the basic phase of the pre-deployment work-up cycle.

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