Rear Adm. Jeffrey Hughes, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, visited the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Aug. 24.

During his first visit as ESG 2, Hughes received a tour of the ship, participated in a video teleconference regarding integrated phase training with ship leadership, and held an all-hands call on the flight deck as an opportunity to directly address the crew.

"Amphibious readiness groups (ARGs) are doing incredible work worldwide across the full spectrum of military operations," said Hughes. "You may not always read about it in headlines, but the effects and outcomes driven by the amphibious force are making a tremendous difference in securing our interests and defending our partners, allies and of course the homeland."

Hughes also offered his expectations of the crew in their future operations and upcoming deployment.

"You and the rest of the IWO ARG/26 MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) team have performed brilliantly thus far in the basic training phase, and are fully ready to seize the opportunities offered in the integrated training phase," said Hughes.

During the all-hands call Hughes recognized the importance of 'Brilliant on the Basics' as a key component of high performing teams. He also emphasized the importance of sound watchstanding fundamentals, rigorous planning, briefing, execution and debriefing, and a culture of prudent and calculated risk management are pre-requisites for effective and safe operations.

Hughes concluded the all-hands call by answering questions from the crew and complementing their overall performance.

"One final thing I know about this ship's crew is that you know your purpose and you own your destiny," said Hughes. "You have taken ownership of this ship and it's evident in the conversations I have with you, it's evident when I look out across this crowd, and it's evident in your performance."

Iwo Jima is in port conducting a scheduled continuous maintenance availability in preparation for its upcoming deployment.

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