OCTOBER 24, 2016, BALTIMORE (NNS) – When the Navy welcomed its newest ship, USS Zumwalt, to the fleet at a commissioning ceremony in Baltimore, Oct. 15, the contracting team from Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Norfolk was behind the scenes, helping to make the event a success.
Guided-missile destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000), the lead ship of a class of next-generation and multi-mission destroyers, was commissioned during Maryland Fleet Week and Air Show, which ran Oct. 10-17. The ship features a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, wave-piercing tumblehome hull, stealth design, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry available.
According to Diane Krueger, a Code 230 supervisory contract specialist, several NAVSUP FLC Norfolk contract specialists contracted for husbanding support services for Zumwalt, as well as guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) and guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) that also visited Baltimore during Fleet Week.
“They coordinated many services for the ships, including collection, holding, and transfer (CHT) removal; potable water; crane services; tugboats; and harbor pilots, just to name a few,” explained Kreuger.
The weeklong event featured many events including ship tours, receptions, and a air show.
“NAVSUP FLC Norfolk contract specialists contracted reception items for USS Leyte Gulf’s reception, as well as force protection services for the North Locust Point pier and parking lots specifically reserved for the air show over Baltimore’s Inner Harbor,” said Kreuger.
Coordinating and procuring services for an event like a ship’s commissioning ceremony where more than 10,000 people were in attendance required meticulous attention to detail. NAVSUP FLC Norfolk contract specialists worked closely with Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), helping them make sure every last detail was taken care of.
“In order to help make sure that all events took place without a hiccup, NAVSUP FLC Norfolk provided an on-site contracting officer in Baltimore to assist the COR (contracting officer’s representative) from Commander, Task Force-80; the supply officers of each vessel; the force protection coordinator; and the commissioning team for the purpose of providing support should any additional contractual requirements be required during Fleet Week,” explained Kreuger.
More than 30,000 people visited U.S. Navy ships during the week; citizens and Sailors enjoyed watching an air show featuring the Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels; and more than 10,000 guests watched as Zumwalt Sailors brought their ship to life.
NAVSUP Logistics Center (FLC) Norfolk, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), provides operational logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other joint and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.
NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.