Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Bill Moran visited Sailors deployed to the only enduring installation on the continent of Africa, Dec. 11.

During an all-hands call, Moran touched on the status of the fleet, the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa, and the new blended retirement system.

When Moran opened up for questions, he discussed many topics with the audience, including the new enlisted rating modernization initiative.

"What we are trying to do is not only change how Sailors are assigned to commands, but how we assess your talents, abilities, and experience," said Moran.

Moran also commended Navy Reservists for comprising 2,200 of the 2,400 individual augmentee billets Navywide.

"I salute you Reservists in this room for supporting the active component and allowing there to be fewer holes in the fleet," said Moran.

"The importance of Camp Lemonnier, the Horn of Africa area of
responsibility, and what you all do out here is crucial now more than ever during this time of transition," added Moran speaking of the coming administration change.

Camp Lemonnier provides, operates, and sustains superior service in support of combat readiness, along with security of ships and aircraft detachments and personnel for regional and combat command requirements, enabling operations for the Horn of Africa while fostering positive U.S.-African nation relations. Camp Lemonnier enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of Navy Region, Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia's mission to provide services to the fleet, fighter, and family.

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, visit http://www.navy.mil/.