The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) conducted its first large-scale stores replenishment-at-sea (RAS) in more than a year, June 20.

A 250-person working party helped to onload 219 pallets, offload 30 pallets and receive fuel from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12). Although the number of pallets may not have been excessive, Lt. Cmdr. M. Tucker, Truman's assistant supply officer, said there was certainly reason to coordinate a larger than normal number of people.

"[This RAS was] about one-third the size of a normal RAS during last deployment," said Tucker. "However, we wanted to muster a large working party to start building muscle memory in preparation for the upcoming deployment. We wanted the Sailors to get in an operational rhythm, so when the time comes for the real deal, we'll be ready."

Chief Ship's Serviceman A. V. Ransaw said a RAS generally occurs weekly during deployment, and stressed the importance of training Sailors early and often to carry out the mission. He said training is especially important to maintain vigilance while transferring stores via connected replenishments (ship-to-ship) and vertical replenishments (helicopter-to-ship).

"Leadership and junior Sailors worked hand-in-hand to sort and stow cargo in 20 different locations," he added. "We've had about a 50 percent crew turnover since last deployment. This RAS allowed new Sailors to learn the importance of safety and communication during this successful evolution. It also helped them to get hands-on experience for what they can expect in the future."

According to Ransaw, another, often overlooked part of the RAS is movement of cargo once it is onboard the ship. This is typically accomplished through the use of forklifts and jack lifts. Ransaw said the RAS also gave additional practice time to forklift operators and helped them better understand the tempo of a RAS.

Logistic Specialist Seaman J. V. Austria, assigned to the "Fist of the Fleet" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25, said the RAS taught him the importance of a clear line of communication while participating in what is inherently a dangerous evolution.

"This was my first replenishment-at-sea and it was definitely a learning experience," said Austria. "The safety officer, khaki leadership, and senior Sailors from various departments supervised and helped transport cargo. Throughout the evolution they emphasized safety to us while moving large numbers of pallets."

In this instance, size wasn't everything. What did matter, however, was that the successful completion of this RAS means many new Sailors are better prepared to safely handle these critical evolutions.

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