Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

Iron Fist accomplished this complex synchronization of simultaneous by operations on land, air and sea. Not only did this training continue to foster military relations between the United States and Japan, but valuable combined arms training was conducted off the coast of southern California in mid-February. From rehearsal to execution the operation tested personnel in their abilities to conduct combined arms live-fire and maneuvering.

Specifically, the USS Chancellorsville (CG-62) was tasked with the important role of providing Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) for Marines and Japanese troops that landed on the shore. Leading up to the exercise, Chancellorsville recertified their NSFS qualification by scoring a 97 percent. Throughout the exercise, Chancellorsville was “called upon to deliver accurate and timely ordnance directly supporting airborne, ground, and forward observers throughout a three phase dynamic operation” mentions FCCS Roseland, a senior member on the Chancellorsville’s NSFS team.

Chancellorsville fired over 60 5” rounds on shore and “it was an excellent opportunity to flex a warfare area that usually is not practiced that often” mentions LCDR Drain, the Weapons Officer onboard. The vital supporting role that Chancellorsville played in the amphibious operation was critical for mission accomplishment.