Ninety-five Active and Reserve component Sailors forward deployed to Camp Lemonnier and Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa participated in the Navy-wide advancement exam held at 11 Degrees North, April 16th.

The exam provided E-4 and E-5 Sailors with an opportunity to demonstrate rate-specific expertise and basic military knowledge in an effort to increase their overall Final Multiple Score (FMS). The Exam standard score makes up 45% of the FMS for E-5 and E-6 Sailors.

"It's encouraging, because how I do on the test is 100 percent in my control," said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class David Graffius, assigned to Camp Lemonnier's Security Department. "I've been putting in the study time and I'm hoping to advance."

For reserve component Sailors, a deployment to Camp Lemonnier provides the type of daily rate-specific on-the-job training which is an invaluable ingredient to exam success.

"I've learned so much about my rate just from having a chance to do this job every day," said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Melanie Williams, assigned to Camp Lemonnier's Supply Department. "I try to learn as much as I can from my active duty shipmates and I think the exam will reflect that."

Before the exam, Camp Lemonnier Command Master Chief Scott Martin praised the work ethic of the Sailors taking the exam.

"What we have assembled here is a collection of hard-working, motivated Sailors who chose to come here and serve in a difficult part of the world," Martin said. "They perform mission critical tasks around the clock with dedication and then they also make time outside of their work schedule to study. They train each other and look out for one another. It is very inspiring."

Camp Lemonnier supports Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) and other tenant commands protecting United States interests in Africa and provides full spectrum individual support to personnel stationed on Camp Lemonnier. Camp Lemonnier partners with its host nation, Djibouti, to be a valued part of the community by fostering long-term common interests.

For more news from Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, visit www.navy.mil/local/CAMPL/.