Naval Submarine Base, Bangor, Wash., Oct. 17, 2002 — The ballistic missile submarine USS Pennsylvania (SSBN 735) arrives at her new homeport at the Naval Submarine Base, Bangor, Wash., following a voyage from her previous base at Kings Bay, Ga. Strategic deterrence has been the sole mission of the fleet ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) since its inception in 1960. The SSBN provides the nation's most survivable and enduring nuclear strike capability. The Ohio-class submarine, of which Pennsylvania is one, replaced aging SSBNs built in the 1960s and is far more capable. U.S. Navy photo by Brian Nokell. [021017-N-6497N-002] Oct. 17, 2002
At sea with USS Saipan, Oct. 19, 2002 — Landing Craft Utility One Six Five Four returns to the amphibious assault ship USS Saipan (LHA 2) after a simulated assault off the coast of North Carolina. The exercise included Marines from Marine Air Ground Task Force Two Five (MAGTF-25) and was part of Type Commander Amphibious Training (TCAT). TCAT is a week-long training permiting the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) the opportunity to work together as a cohesive unit to fine tune their basic ship-handling skills, well-deck and flight-deck operations, and other integral shipboard activities and drills. In addition, TCAT allows the sailors aboard these ships the opportunity to work closely with their Marine counterparts. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Robert M Schalk. [021019-N-5027S-003] Oct. 19, 2002
At sea with USS Saipan, Oct. 20, 2002 — Members of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) board a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter during beach-landing training during Type Commander Amphibious Training (TCAT) exercises off the coast of North Carolina. Navy and Marine Corps expeditionary forces — integrated air, land, and sea combined arms units — are ideally suited to meet the challenges of the 21st century security environment. They are powerful instruments of national policy and provide the National Command Authority with a multitude of diplomatic and military options to support U.S. foreign policy initiatives. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Kyle T. Voigt. [021020-N-9109V-002] Oct. 20, 2002