The security force aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman completed Force Protection Exercise (FPEX), July 29, certifications for the anti-terrorism force protection mission area in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

FPEX serves to ensure Truman's security force is properly trained to eliminate security threats while overseas and in foreign ports. Lt. Cmdr. M. J. Finneran, Truman's security officer, said the completion of the drills proves Truman will be properly protected wherever it may go. Finneran also said the crew pulled together and demonstrated their ability to defend the ship against threats in foreign ports.

"As with all our other certifications so far, HST Sailors proved their merit, once again, by achieving outstanding results in detecting, deterring and countering terrorist threats," said Finneran. "Day one of the certification yielded high praise from the evaluation teams; so much so, that the events conducted on day two were highly advanced."

The high recognition given to Truman's Sailors during FPEX proves they have the level of expertise required to protect the ship against terrorist attacks.

"Whether it is an active shooter, bomb threat or hostage situation, our Sailors have to be ready," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class J. C. Horn. "Not only should they know what to do, but they need to perform with a high level of proficiency and respond in an instant."

Master-at-Arms 3rd Class C. A. Moistner added that the successful completion of the drills builds confidence in Truman's security force and certifies the crew for more liberty while in foreign ports.

"Due to past events, all of our drills were simulated as being in an overseas port," said Moistner. "Simulating an outside continental United States (OCONUS) security posture means training for events that have happened, and can happen while overseas. It also helps security to collaborate and work with host nation personnel."

With the certification completed, Truman moves one step nearer toward deployment readiness. Finneran said this progress would be impossible without the hard work put in by every Sailor on board.

"I could sit here and try to single out each department out that had a hand in our certification. But, in the end, everyone played a role in the success," said Finneran. "That's what Truman is all about - teamwork. We succeeded as a team with top results once again."

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