The new CROW building provides approximately 80,000 square feet of dedicated space near the drydock where aircraft carriers undergo Refueling and Complex Overhauls (RCOHs). With the opening, Sailors and shipbuilders have access to office space and there is also a fitness center, recreational areas, counseling offices, and other spaces Sailors can utilize while assigned to an aircraft carrier undergoing maintenance.

A long-time Quality of Service (QoS) advocate, Adm. Kilby has driven a comprehensive, service-wide effort to improve the Navy’s warfighting readiness by ensuring that Sailors have the resources they need to be Battle Ready.

“The RCOH facility directly supports Admiral Caudle’s ‘Sailors First’ vision for the Navy.” said Kilby. “It is our obligation to our Sailors and the employees at this shipyard to keep improving and striving to deliver the best Quality of Service. This facility provides our Sailors and shipyard partners with a dedicated, modern space outside of the heavy industrial environment to build Sailors’ well-being and warfighting readiness.”

The Navy is continuing to develop and implement additional QoS programs and plans across the fleet as expeditiously as possible, driven by the foundational belief that a ready and lethal force begins with taking care of its people.

“We identified a clear need to improve the quality of service for our RCOH Sailors here in Newport News, and the CROW is us delivering on that promise,” said Capt. Hannah Kriewaldt, Commanding Officer, Supervisor of Shipbuilding Newport News. “This facility ensures that Sailors and shipbuilders performing the heavy lifting to maintain our fleet have the professional workspace, wellness resources, and support they deserve.”

In addition to the CROW facility, the Navy has worked to improve QoS in Newport News alongside shipyard and city officials, expanding options for parking, after-hours dining and recreation.

“This new facility, designed to serve Sailors – and benefit shipbuilders as well – is a shining example of what teamwork can do,” said NNS President Kari Wilkinson. “We are grateful for the tenacity with which this project was envisioned, pursued and executed, and we are honored to celebrate its opening.”

The Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Maritime is the single accountable organization for delivering surface ships for the U.S. Navy. This new centralized organizational construct will empower leaders with broader scope and greater authority to accelerate delivery of combat capability and ensure acquisition speed and discipline are driven by what the warfighter needs—when they need it.