Tri-Carrier Ordnance Overhaul: USS IKE’s Dynamic Ammo Off-Load

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) underwent a significant ammunition off-load, facilitating the transfer of 3 million pounds of ordnance staged on its flight deck and hangar bay. This logistical feat was part of a broader operation involving the aircraft carriers USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), and the dry cargo ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12).

MH-60S Seahawk helicopters, belonging to the “Tridents” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 and the “Dragon-Slayers” of HSC-11, played a key role in transferring ordnance to Ford and Truman. Concurrently, the “Dusty Dogs” of HSC-7 managed the movement of ammunition to the McLean. Over the course of the mission, 1,764 vertical and connected replenishment transfers were completed.

Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Alexis Armstrong highlighted the efficiency of the weapons department, emphasizing the comprehensive effort to clear all ordnance from the ship. Armstrong remarked, “Off-loads and on-loads are like the Super Bowl for us.”

Maintaining safety was paramount throughout the operation, with stringent protocols in place. Master Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Jerome Ruffins explained, “Prior to every ordnance evolution, each division does a safety brief at the beginning of each off-load. Throughout the off-load we have officers, chief petty officers, and first-class petty officers roving the flight deck, hangar bay, and magazines for safety. We are moving a lot of heavy equipment and explosives, so safety is paramount.”

The collaborative effort culminated in a successful ammunition transfer, showcasing the dedication and coordination of the whole crew. Cmdr. Kent Davis, weapons department head or “Gun Boss,” commended the teamwork involved, saying, “I was highly impressed with the amount of work it takes to get everything out of the magazines and ready for vertical or connected replenishments. It was a huge effort for the whole team to come together and make it happen.”