Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) oversaw the undocking of the coastal patrol ship USS Zephyr (PC 8), which is nearing the end of a 12-month structural and systems overhaul as part of its dock selected restricted availability at Colonna's Shipyard, June 2.

The most significant portion of Zephyr to be restored was damage to her hull which was completely replaced. Repairs and replacements to several other systems important to operational readiness were also inspected and renovated as needed.

"All of the main engines were removed and overhauled," said USS Zephyr Commanding Officer Lt. Cmdr. Colin Roberts. "The diesel generators were removed and retooled. Pretty much every major piece of equipment vital to the ships function was removed and the ship was left as a shell for structural work to be performed."

During the availability, MARMC's Naval Architecture, PCMS, and Coatings Branch worked in partnership with MARMC's Waterfront Operations Maintenance Team to perform fairness inspections and ensure the safety of the Colonna's repair crews.

"I was on sight each day to answer any questions about structural related engineering support requests and departure from specification questions," said MARMC Naval Architect Thomas Newton. "I would also coordinate with Colonna's Shipyard employees and MARMC Waterfront Ops each day to keep continuity within the work flow and make sure the availability was staying on schedule."

After the maintenance team and Zephyrs crew performed a final inspection of the ship while in dry-dock, Zephyr was placed back into its berthing by Colonna's Travel Lift, which is the largest in the world.

"Once we get underway from here, we will return to Mayport, Florida," said Zephyr Chief Engineer Ensign Richard Miodowski. "We will be mission ready and prepared to support the 4th Fleet area of responsibility."

"Everything went smoothly overall," said Roberts. "It was such a big work package that needed to be handled correctly, and I am impressed with how well MARMC and the shipyard were able to get it all done. I am looking forward to getting back to homeport and becoming operational again."

Zephyr is set to complete its maintenance phase at the beginning of August 2015.

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