Apra Harbor, Guam - Dec 2020: Sailors forward-deployed with the expeditionary mine countermeasure capability of Task Force 75 conduct helo-casting training operations from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter attached to the “Island Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC). (Navy photo by MCS 2nd Class Nick Bauer)
By: FEDweek StaffThe Naval Safety Center has a new name, reflecting a significant increase in importance. The Norfolk Naval Station, Virginia-based center is now the Naval Safety Command. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Mike Gilday and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith each spoke at the Feb. 4 ceremony there that marked the new command’s elevation in status
“The establishment of the Naval Safety Command expands our focus on safety and leverages ‘Get Real Get Better’ principles, while we evaluate safety management and performance of the Navy and Marine Corps,” Gilday said.
“Get Real Get Better” is Gilday’s directive to all hands to enhance leadership and problem-solving.
“The significance … can be summarized simply: It’s a vital change that will increase warfighting readiness. Almost no aspect of naval operations can be separated from risk, but risk can be reduced,” Gilday said.
Gilday’s concerns about safety come in the aftermath of a series of incidents involving loss of life. Most recently, Kyle Mullen, a 24-year-old sailor from New Jersey, died Feb. 4 after taking part in the Hell Week portion of SEAL training at Coronado Naval Base, California.
Rear Adm. Frederick Luchtman, the command’s senior officer, hopes that it will serve as a force multiplier by using input from all ranks and positions to improve risk management and accountability.
“We will empower our sailors, Marines and civilians by collecting their insights to bolster our safety culture,” Luchtman said.
Gilday and Smith also visited the destroyer Mason and guided-missile cruiser Gettysburg while they were in the Hampton Roads area.
“Having the opportunity to travel with CNO while having unfiltered, candid conversations with sailors provides essential feedback that improves our fleet and increases combat readiness,” Smith said. “Our people are truly paramount to readiness. Without them, Gettysburg and Mason could not perform the multitude of missions they were designed for.”
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