Second Fleet commander visits JLOTS 2009

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Vice Adm. Mel Williams, Jr., visited here June 18 to meet with exercise participants and learn about the multi-service cargo distribution exercise Joint Logistics-Over-The-Shore.

JLOTS is a critical military capability that allows equipment and sustainment supplies to reach specific areas without the benefit of a fixed port facility. Military forces can discharge a ship off shore and move cargo into an area of operations without improved port facilities. The exercise increases interoperability and improves military readiness by alleviating situational sustainment issues.

Williams' visit included various stops around Camp Lejeune to witness firsthand the capability of joint logistics and how 2nd Fleet may play a part in future JLOTS operations.

"It is a privilege for the sailors from Second Fleet to participate in this joint exercise with U.S. Transportation Command," Williams said. "At Second Fleet, we are focused on fleet operations, preparing ready forces for execution of the maritime strategy, and also teaming with our allies and partners."

He added that the sea-basing aspect of the exercise ties in with 2nd Fleet's responsibilities. Sea-basing demonstrates the capability to enable sustained joint force combat power from the sea without reliance on land bases.

"The JLOTS capability enables joint force commanders to project power ashore particularly when there is no mature port facility available," Williams said. "JLOTS and sea-basing are capabilities that will better enable the maritime forces to execute the cooperative strategy for the 21st century."

Williams also commented on the benefit of sailors working in a joint environment.

"The things that I have observed here for the better part of the morning have been quite productive," Williams said. "I have observed sailors working alongside Army personnel to accomplish mission. It is truly a joint exercise. It is good when the services operate together on a day-to-day basis. It will better enable us as a joint force to better execute our missions."

JLOTS demonstrates the Department of Defense's ability to deploy, discharge and conduct reception, staging and deployment of unit equipment and sustainment in a scenario that requires ships to offload while still offshore. The events are designed to improve military readiness, increase interoperability among participating agencies and test new concepts. JLOTS is being conducted at Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 15 to 19.
________________________

To receive USTRANSCOM News Service releases and articles by email, simply send an email to join-ustcns@mercury.afnews.af.mil. There is no need to fill in the subject or message block. To unsubscribe, please send a blank e-mail to the following address from your subscriber e-mail account: leave-ustcns@mercury.afnews.af.mil.