EVERETT, Wash. –
USS Sampson (DDG 102) was returned to the fleet one day ahead of schedule thanks to the teamwork of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility Detachment Everett, Vigor Marine and ship’s force. This was despite the project facing numerous scheduling challenges.
“Planning and teamwork were instrumental,” said Cmdr. Mark Schuchmann, PSNS & IMF Detachment Everett officer in charge. “All the stakeholders came together shortly after contract award to review the schedule and identify areas of concern.”
Their continuous dialogue and teamwork throughout the availability was evident as they were able to “aggressively resolve issues as they came up in order to maintain the schedule,” Schuchman said.
Major work for the Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability included port and starboard shafting, controllable pitch propeller systems resets, structural repairs and preservation of 59 tanks and voids among many other projects. In addition, the team completed refurbishment of three crew complexes and installed new scullery equipment.
“The focus on the mission and culture of open discussion between the government project team, private industry partners and ship’s force was a key factor in addressing and overcoming a number of major challenges that came up during the availability,” said Chris Corley, PSNS & IMF Detachment Everett director of waterfront operations. “(This) allowed the team to complete highly successful and on time sea trials and to deliver the mission-ready ship back to the fleet one day early and on budget.”
The impressive work done by the project team earned accolades including a Bravo Zulu from U.S. Pacific Fleet.
“CNO availabilities are foundational to readiness and our ability to win the high-end fight,” said Adm. John C. Aquilino, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “Congratulations to the entire northwest team on a job well done.”