Senator tours NAS Jax commands

On Aug. 28, Florida Governor Charlie Crist named LeMieux to fill out the remainder of Sen. Mel Martinez's unexpired term. He was sworn in on Sept. 10. He serves on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee that oversees the armed forces, the development of weapons systems and military operations, and the acquisition of strategic and critical materials necessary for operational readiness and mission completion.

At Hangar 1122, HSM-70 "Spartans" Commanding Officer Cmdr. Scott Walsh explained the capabilities of the Navy's new SH-60R Seahawk helicopter. "The multi-mission MH-60 'Romeo' encompasses the mission responsibilities of both the SH-60B and SH-60F helicopters, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, vertical replenishment, communications relay, combat search and rescue, and special operations forces support."

HSM-70 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Scott Walsh shows Sen. George LeMieux the cabin of their new SH-60R "Romeo" helicopter at Hangar 1122 during the senator's familiarization visit to NAS Jacksonville Nov. 12.

When LeMieux and Scorby arrived at Hangar 511, they were greeted by Capt. Mark Turner, commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 11. Turner reviewed the 40-year history of the P-3C Orion, as well as the upcoming transition to the P-8A Poseidon.

"Based on the highly successful Boeing 737, the Poseidon is an impressive platform to perform long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions," Turner informed the senator.

LeMieux toured a P-3C of the VP-5 "Mad Foxes" as well as their new spaces in Hangar 511, the Navy's newest and largest aviation facility. At Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE), the senator toured the F/A-18 Hornet line to learn about center barrel replacement, a program to extend the service life for these vital aircraft.

Commanding Officer Capt. Paul Sohl (left) explains to Sen. George LeMieux (R-Fla.) the center barrel replacement program designed to extend the service life of F/A-18 Hornets as senate staff members look on. LeMieux toured the facility on Nov. 12 during a visit to NAS Jacksonville. Photo by Vic Pitts FRCSE

FRCSE Commanding Officer Capt. Paul Sohl explained the facility's maintenance mission and the importance of keeping these aircraft flying. "Our aircraft are returning after being put through some pretty harsh conditions. They are being flown in ways they were never intended, long past their service life expectancy."

Sohl gave high praise to the FRCSE artisans who are fabricating one-of-a-kind replacement parts and components not found in the Navy supply system or elsewhere.

LeMieux was very impressed with the work taking place at the depot. He said, "I'm here to learn. I wanted to come here and see it for myself, to support the men and women who are defending our freedom."

As a legislator, he expressed concern with economic stability. "The military is such an important part of our economy. Military salaries and spending contribute about $12 billion to Florida's economy."