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    Tucson resident manages flight deck safety aboard USS Tortuga

    Tucson resident manages flight deck safety aboard USS Tortuga

    Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Mandello | Seaman Apprentice Brian Sherlock directs a CH-53E Sea Stallion onto the flight deck of...... read more read more

    PACIFIC OCEAN, USAFRICOM, AT SEA

    10.25.2012

    Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Chelsea Mandello 

    Amphibious Squadron 11

    By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chelsea Mandello,
    Amphibious Squadron 11, Public Affairs

    SOUTH CHINA SEA – Seaman Brian Sherlock, son of Cindy and David Sherlock from Tucson, Ariz., is currently serving aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) while on deployment in the Western Pacific.

    Sherlock works as a landing signalman enlisted (LSE), which allows him to direct helicopters and aircraft onto the flight deck of Tortuga.

    “I am a designated LSE,” said Sherlock. “I’ve landed everything from CH-53 Sea Stallions, Super Cobra helicopters, special operation helos and other rotary winged craft.”

    LSEs ensure the safe landing of the aircraft and the safety of the flight deck crew during replenishments.

    “Helos bring aboard everything the crew needs,” said Sherlock. “We bring aboard hundreds of palettes every year that supply us with parts, food and any other ship essentials.”

    LSEs wear bright yellow shirts on the flight deck so that they are easily recognizable as they direct aircraft to the flight deck.

    “My job is very important because we are the primary safety observers on the flight deck,” said Sherlock. “We ensure safety during flight quarters by directing the pilots for a safe landing and watching the chock and chain men who are sent under the helos while the rotors are moving.”

    Sherlock graduated from Sahurao High School in 2011 and hopes to eventually become a boatswain’s mate.

    Tortuga, commanded by Cmdr. John Barnett, is part of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and is currently operating in the 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

    For more information about Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 or USS Tortuga (LSD 46), please visit:
    www.facebook.com/#!/PHIBRON11
    www.dvidshub.net/unit/PHIBRON11
    www.cpf.navy.mil
    www.c7f.navy.mil

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 10.25.2012
    Date Posted: 10.28.2012 10:55
    Story ID: 96864
    Location: PACIFIC OCEAN, USAFRICOM, AT SEA

    Web Views: 165
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN