While underway, the crew was qualified by Afloat Training Group (ATG) Norfolk in multiple warfare areas to certify the ship for operations at sea.

“Kearsarge achieved a lot of certifications including Mobility Aviation, Air Warfare, Mobility Seamanship, and Amphibious Warfare,” said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Mousel, Kearsarge’s assistant operations officer. “We also were able to give Sailors the opportunity to complete personal qualifications. I think it also helped the crew come together and learn how to execute as a team.”

Mousel said an integral part of completing basic phase was getting Kearsarge’s aviation team certified.

“We had to do multiple drills and evolutions to show ATG we are capable of handling any scenario on the flight deck,” said Cmdr. Eric Isaacson, Kearsarge’s air department head. “Once we were able to execute all of the drills we became certified and can now perform any mission that requires the flight deck.”

Kearsarge’s deck department was qualified in various warfare areas as part of the Amphibious Warfare (AMW) and Mobility Seamanship (MOB-S) certifications. Sailors demonstrated proficiency in launching and recovering amphibious vehicles, anchoring, mooring and navigation.

These certifications were vital for the ship to be able to perform one of its primary missions – supporting an attached Marine Expeditionary Unit and enabling future amphibious operations.

“My team has grown a lot together during the countless hours of training we got during this underway,” said Master Chief Boatswain’s Mate Jiamon Poe, deck department’s leading chief petty officer. “I feel confident we can respond to anything and be a firm asset to help support our nation.”

Kearsarge’s engineers also certified the engineering plant and combatted simulated casualties, ensuring the ship can maintain vital services, handle unexpected operating conditions and continue running through any arduous sea duty ahead.

Earning these certifications and completing basic phase reestablishes Kearsarge’s position as a military and humanitarian asset following a scheduled maintenance period that began in 2019.

“Kearsarge is a huge asset,” said Mousel. “We’re now qualified to answer any task given or to help with humanitarian aid and disaster relief.”

Kearsarge, homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, is entering the integrated phase to pursue more advanced certifications.