During a two-day tour of naval installations in the Pacific Northwest, Vice Adm. Nora Tyson, commander U.S. 3rd Fleet, visited Naval Station Everett (NSE), USS Shoup (DDG 86), and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI), Feb. 22-23.

While on NSE, Tyson met with the base commanding officer, and toured the installation. After touring NSE, Tyson was greeted by side boys as she went aboard Shoup, where she toured the ship, and addressed the crew.

"I don't think significant is the right word," said Cmdr. Jason E. Rogers, commanding officer, USS Shoup. "I think 'meaningful' better describes the deckplate exchanges that happen during these visits. Messages delivered face to face are always more impactful than those communicated via a message or article."

During an all-hands call aboard Shoup, Tyson called on Sailors to consider topics covering force readiness, maintenance availability, technology, and training.

"I need all of you to think about how we're doing business and how we might be able to do it better," said Tyson. "We talk a lot about technology with regards to maintenance, 3D printing, and how to save money. How can we be as operationally prepared, and our ships from a maintenance and training perspective, as we can be? It takes every one of us to think about that, and put our thinking caps on. Ask the hard questions. Are we doing it right, or is there a better way to do it?"

Tyson also offered advice on taking advantage of the unique opportunities that come with naval service.

"One thing I've learned in life is that it goes fast, so make the most of every day," said Tyson. "So while you guys are here in this beautiful area of our great country take advantage of it. It really is incredible as far as being outdoors. This is one of the beauties of the organization we're a part of. We get to see the world, and we get to meet people from around the world. Take advantage of it."

Before finishing the visit, Tyson offered gratitude to the crew for hosting her.

"Thanks for your service, thank you for everything you do, and thank you for letting me be a part of your crew today," she concluded.

After arriving at NASWI the following day, Tyson participated in a flight line tour, and spoke to NASWI personnel at the base theater. She spoke of what can be expected in the future.

"I thought the presentation was very informative," said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Janpier Mendez, assigned to NASWI. "She specifically addressed concerns of budgeting and how the community, especially the VAQ (Electronic Attack Squadron), VP (Patrol Squadron), and P8 integration will be taking place."

During the all-hands call at NASWI, Tyson touched on the fact that the Pacific Northwest plays a key role in the Navy's Green Fleet energy initiative.

"NAS Whidbey Island is one of the Navy foremost environmental leaders, earning five consecutive Navy Platinum Energy Reduction Awards. This is a big deal," explained Tyson. "Energy conservation is a key component to making us better warfighters."

Tyson also shared her praise for the aviation community at Whidbey Island before concluding her visit to NASWI, and the Northwest.

"I'm amazed at what's going on here at Whidbey Island, with the growth of both the VP community and the VAQ community," said Tyson.

For more information about the U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit http://www.c3f.navy.mil.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit http://www.navy.mil/.