USS Gary Provides Damage Control Training to Cambodian Navy
By Cmdr. Jensin W. Sommer, Commander Task Force 70 Public Affairs
SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia – USS Gary’s (FFG 51) crewmembers conducted a damage control demonstration for 30 Royal Cambodian Navy personnel, February 11, during the third day of the frigate’s historic port visit here.
The ship displayed a wide range of damage control equipment on the helicopter flight deck and briefed the Cambodian Sailors on their purpose and method of use.
“We set up gear consisting of firefighting, de-smoking, de-watering and emergency access equipment and other emergency gear,” said Chief Damage Controlman (SW) Michael D. Kaszubowski. “It’s a privilege to show the Royal Cambodian Navy a little bit of what we do in the U.S. Navy and especially as a damage control man, a little bit about what we do to fight fires and take care of casualties onboard our ship.”
Gary’s crew simulated a fire in the port hangar bay and showed their guests a typical emergency response. Some of the Cambodian Sailors also put on the ship’s Firefighting Ensembles and tested damage control equipment to get a more hands on learning experience.
“It’s very good for the Cambodian Navy, because it’s the first time for us to see the American Navy’s ship. It is very helpful to see the training and learn about it,” said Capt. In Sokhemra, commanding officer of Royal Cambodian Navy Patrol Boat 1101.
The demonstration benefited not only the host nation’s navy, but also the local port’s security department. Thong Viro, Sihanoukville Port’s Chief Security Officer also participated in the demonstration and plans to pass on the lessons to his staff.
“This is very helpful for us,” he said. “I can see for myself and explain to the others so they know what new firefighting and other equipment is available and used by the U.S. Navy.”
This damage control training is just one of many activities during the four-day port visit in which Gary’s crew will interact and engage with their counterparts and the local community.
USS Gary’s visit marks the first visit by a U.S. Navy ship in 30 years. The frigate is forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the U.S. 7th Fleets and the Navy’s Forward Deployed Naval Forces. Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans, the U.S. Seventh Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. Fleets, with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time.