The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) earned the 2018 Battle Effectiveness Award (Battle "E"), March 8.

The Battle “E” recognizes sustained superior performance in an operational environment, and continuous readiness throughout certifications and qualifications conducted during the competitive period. Eligibility for this award demands day-to-day demonstrated excellence in at least four of six assessed areas including warfare, engineering and logistics.

“I am tremendously proud of the crew for earning the Battle “E” for 2018,” said Capt. Jason Rimmer, commanding officer of Kearsarge. “Though our motivation lies in being a capable and ready ship, recognition afforded through the Battle “E” is a tangible reminder of noteworthy efforts of each member of the crew.” 

Every Sailor and Marine serving on the ship for permanent duty from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2018, can now sport a Battle "E" ribbon to signify their contribution to the award. Sailors who have previously received a Battle "E" are now authorized to wear an additional silver "E" device on their ribbon, or a wreathed “E” to signify four or more awards, if applicable.

The award, Kearsarge’s second consecutive, and ninth in its history, comes after a busy year for the crew.

“Kearsarge represented the Navy in two fleet weeks, supported American citizens in the wake of Hurricane Florence, and performed admirably throughout pre-deployment training leading to our deployment in late 2018. It is truly gratifying to lead this crew and display the Battle “E” for a second consecutive year," Rimmer said.

Kearsarge is the flagship for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

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