Wasp Sailors Anticipate End of Field Service Records

Courtesy Photo | Seaman Recruit Hannah Patton reviews field service records in USS Wasp's administration office, Aug 22. FSR's are scheduled to be phased out of use officially on Sept. 30, to be permanently replaced by the Electronic Service Record system. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Edward L. Kobobel III)  

USS WASP, AT SEA

08.21.2010

Courtesy Story

USS WASP (LHD 1)   

By Petty Officer 3rd Class Edward Kobobel,

USS WASP, At Sea – As the Navy converts over from Enlisted Field Service Records to the new Electronic Service Record System, Sailors onboard USS Wasp who have not yet created an ESR account have been told to do so immediately, as use of all FSR’s are scheduled to be officially phased out by Sept. 30.

ESR is an online version of the traditional service record that integrates a set of tools that enable sailors to review and update their personnel, training, and awards data through a self-service account, which can be reached through the ship's Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System server.

“Neglecting to establish an ESR account in a timely manner could create potential issues when you do things such as process a leave request, as the new electronic leave system will be integrated into the ESR system,” said Chief Petty Officer Alberto Espinoza.

“The new ESR system has many great benefits over the older, outdated FSR system. With ESR, sailors will now have immediate access to their career information online,” Espinoza continued. “It’s like having an online bank account. With online banking you can view and manage your account information without ever stepping foot in your bank.”

The Chief of Naval Personnel announced in 2009 the requirement for all active-duty and Reserve personnel to establish and maintain an ESR account.

Some Wasp sailors who have created their account said the system is a great tool for avoiding some of the headaches associated with the old FSRs.

“I really enjoy the new system because it saves me a lot of time,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Mia Haynes. “On top of giving me the opportunity to keep track, maintain and control my own records I no longer have to carry that clunky folder around. If you have been in the Navy awhile, that thing can get pretty thick and often pages will get lost while you’re transferring commands. This new system just makes the process that much easier.”

Seaman Kyle Trubey said he likes the idea of online records, but he still sees a use for FSRs.

“You don’t have to worry about all the paperwork that goes along with handling your service records anymore, but I wish they would keep the FSRs around as back-up in case the system crashes for whatever reason,” said Trubey.

ESR accounts can be created at https://nsips.nmci.navy.mil or on the NSIPS/ESR server on board ships. For assistance, sailors can call the NSIPS Help Desk via their toll free number or by e-mail. An online tutorial is also available on the NSIPS home page.

• Date Taken: 08.21.2010
• Date Posted: 08.30.2010 10:05
• Story ID: 55399
• Location: USS WASP, AT SEA