USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) security department recently completed the Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic (CNAL) Phase 4 certification to earn the Black “S” designation as part of the Battle “E” requirements, March 7, 2019.

The award marks the first award of its kind for the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier. The Commander, Naval Air Force Carrier Battle Efficiency Competition, known as the Battle “E” competition, is designed to measure and recognize the level of battle efficiency through superior performance and readiness by each carrier and its respective departments. Eligibility for the overall Battle “E” and departmental awards, demands demonstrated operational excellence in addition to superior achievement during inspections, certifications assessments and qualifications and training event conducted throughout the competitive cycle.

Ford’s Assistant Security Officer, Lt. j.g. Peter Sangenette, explained that Ford’s security department was judged on battle readiness for antiterrorism based on their ability to detect, deter and defend against terrorist attacks and completed multiple drills to support this mission.

“Security was required to complete 15 Navy security operation exercises ranging from entry control point, shipboard and waterside drills. In accordance with the instruction, any security department receiving an overall score of 90 points or greater would be awarded the Black ‘S’,” said Sangenette.

After completing multiple evolutions, Ford’s security department earned a score of 92.5 out of 100. Sangenette said that his department’s success in receiving this award was a direct reflection of Ford’s antiterrorism training team’s planning and execution of the training schedule.

“It was the hard work and dedication of both our Navy security force and in-port security force Sailors in executing the proper tactics, techniques, procedures and ensuring the validation of Ford’s antiterrorism planned, pre-planned and standard operating procedures,” said Sangenette.

Sangenette also explained that this certification was not only a reflection of security department, but also Ford’s entire crew.

“It showed how our entire ship came together as a team and supported the force protection mission,” said Sangenette. “Winning the first-ever award in the Battle “E” series is a tremendous accomplishment for the ship and our security department. I am extremely proud of each and every one of our Sailors who were, or are currently, in our department and what we ask from them on a daily basis.”

Ford is a first-in-class aircraft carrier and the first new aircraft carrier designed in more than 40 years. Ford is currently undergoing its post-shakedown availability at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding.

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