Captain David Fluker

USS Essex

Captain David Fluker
Commanding Officer (April 2010 - April 2012)

CAPT Dave Fluker is a native of Boston, New York. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1987 and was designated a Naval Aviator in December 1988.

Upon completing SH-2F Pilot training, CAPT Fluker reported to HSL-35, where he deployed in numerous ships including USS HORNE (CG-30) for Operation DESERT STORM. During his tour, HSL-35 was awarded the Battle “E.” In 1993, CAPT Fluker transitioned to fly the SH-60B, and was assigned to HSL-41 as a SH-60B instructor pilot. In 1995, CAPT Fluker was recognized as the SH-60B Flight Instructor of the Year.

In 1996, CAPT Fluker reported to USS BOXER (LHD-4), and served as the Flight Deck Officer and Mini Boss, where he deployed in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH and numerous multi-national exercises. In 1999 he reported to HSL-45, where he deployed as Detachment OIC in USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN (CG 57) in support of Maritime Interception Operations and Operation SOUTHERN WATCH.

Other shore tours include HSL Readiness Officer for Commander, Naval Air Force, U. S. Pacific Fleet, and the Naval Helicopter Transition Team in 2002, where he led the planning for the Navy Helicopter Concept of Operations and the fleet introduction of the MH-60R and MH-60S aircraft. In March 2002, CAPT Fluker graduated from the Naval War College with a Masters Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.

CAPT Fluker reported to HSL-43, in April 2003, as the Executive Officer. In September 2004, he assumed Command of the “BattleCats.” During his tour, HSL-43 deployed detachments in support of Operations IRAQI and ENDURING FREEDOM, counter narco-terrorist operations, and Joint Task Force KATRINA. In 2006, he reported to USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD-6) as Air Boss, and deployed in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. BONHOMME RICHARD was awarded the Battle “E” during his tour.

CAPT Fluker’s most recent assignment was Director, Joint Advanced Warfighting Program – Analytical Project Office, Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA), in Alexandria, Virginia. He assumed duties as USS ESSEX (LHD-2) Executive Officer in September, 2009 and Commanding Officer in January 2011.

CAPT Fluker has accumulated nearly 3,000 flight hours in Naval aircraft including over 800 small deck landings. He is a Joint Qualified Officer and his awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal as well as various unit and campaign awards.

NEWS

Ships of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), USS Stockdale and Royal Thai Navy ship HTMS Surin

Essex ARG in Exercise Cobra Gold 2011

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 14, 2011) - Ships of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and Royal Thai Navy ship HTMS Surin (LST 722) steam in formation for a photo exercise.

USS Essex Embarks Royal Cambodian Navy Officers

USS ESSEX, At sea (Feb. 28, 2011) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex embarked 60 officers of the Royal Cambodian Navy (RCN) Feb. 27-28 to participate in shipboard operations training as part of Cambodia Maritime Exercise 2011.

USS Essex Returns to Sasebo

SASEBO, Japan (April 14, 2011) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Chris Pierce mans the rails as the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) pulls into Fleet Activities Sasebo. Essex is returning to Sasebo after completing a three-month patrol of the western Pacific Ocean, which included disaster relief operations in Japan.

USS Essex Sailors Participate in Command Physical Training

SASEBO, Japan (May 13, 2011) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) participate in command physical training.

USS Essex (LHD 2) in Support of Operation Tomodachi

(March 21, 2011) - Marines from combat cargo load CH-46E Sea Knights with humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) in support of Operation Tomodachi.

Essex Arrives in Malaysia

SEPENGGAR, Malaysia (March 11, 2011) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Sepengar, Malaysia, for a port visit March 11.

Essex Thanks JRMC Sasebo through Luncheon

SASEBO, Japan (Jan. 18, 2012) – USS Essex (LHD 2) hosted a lunch for over 100 personnel assigned to the Japan Regional Maintenance Center detachment Sasebo (JRMC) Jan. 18. The lunch was held to thank the JRMC detachment Sasebo team for their services to Essex for over 11 years of being forward-deployed to Sasebo, Japan.

Essex Sailors Check Float Coats in Flight Deck

Inspecting Float Coats in Flight Deck on USS Essex

Senior military and civil leaders of the United States and Japan observe a fireworks display aboard USS Essex (LHD 2)

SASEBO, Japan (June 4, 2010) - Senior military and civil leaders of the United States and Japan observe a fireworks display aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) following a reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan.

7th Fleet Commemorates U.S.-Japan Partnership aboard USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan – Senior Navy and civil officials from the U.S. and Japan attended a reception aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) June 4 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan

USS Essex Sailors Selected for Leadership Awards

SASEBO, Japan – Two Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) have been selected for 2009 Navy and Marine Association (NMA) Leadership Awards

Hull Technician 3rd Class Rachel Stubbs demonstrates how to use a self-contained breathing apparatus as part of a Board of Inspection and Survey aboard the USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan (June 28, 2010) - HT3 Rachel Stubbs demonstrates how to use a self-contained breathing apparatus as part of a Board of Inspection and Survey aboard the USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

Essex Completes INSURV

SASEBO, Japan (July 6, 2010) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed a Material Inspection by the Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) July 1, after a four-day assessment of the ship’s condition and capabilities.

CSCS Provides Coxswain Training For Essex Sailors

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- USS Essex (LHD 2) Sailors are participating in a coxswain training course provided by The Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) at Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka July 19-30

USS Essex Departs for Fall Patrol

USS ESSEX, At sea (Sept. 1, 2010) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Sasebo, Japan Sept. 1, for a regularly scheduled deployment throughout the Western Pacific region. The annual patrol will feature a series of bilateral maritime training exercises designed to build relationships and enhance operational readiness between U.S. and Asian-Pacific partner nations.

USS Essex (LHD 2) Gets Underway For Her Annual Fall Patrol

SASEBO (Sept. 1, 2010) - Lt. j.g. Peter Rusch points to a ship in Sasebo Harbor as the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) gets underway for her annual fall patrol. Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is underway for fall patrol

Essex Amphibious Ready Group On Patrol In the Western Pacific

SEA OF JAPAN - An AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft lands on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is on patrol in the Western Pacific.

Marines assigned to the 31st MEU, embarked aboard USS Essex enter the well deck during CRRC operations

Marines Assigned to the 31st MEU Enter the Well Deck During CRRC Operations

EAST CHINA SEA (Sept. 9, 2010) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), enter the well deck during Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC) operations. Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is on patrol in the Western Pacific

Essex Embarks 31st MEU Aviation Combat Element

USS ESSEX, At sea (Sept. 7, 2010) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed the fly on of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s (MEU) Aviation Combat Element (ACE) Sept. 7 in support of the ship’s current patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

USS Essex Hosts 9-11 Remembrance

PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 11, 2010) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) hosted a remembrance ceremony for the victims of the 9/11 attacks on the ship’s mess decks

Essex ARG Begins Exercise Valiant Shield 2010

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESX ARG) will participate in the integrated joint training exercise Valiant Shield 2010 (VS 10) Sept. 12-21 off the coast of the island nation of Palau and ending in Guam

Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit fire handguns on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assau

Sailors and Marines Work Together to Keep Aircraft Flying

EAST CHINA SEA (Sept. 12, 2010) – Sailors assigned to the aircraft intermediate maintenance department (AIMD) aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) have been working with Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) around the clock to ensure that their aircraft are ready for every mission during exercise Valiant Shield 2010.

Motion in Motion on the Essex

PHILIPPINE SEA - Marine aviation ordnancemen move away from a AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft after arming a GBU-12 Paveway II laser guided bomb on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is participating in Valiant Shield 2010, a joint U.S. military exercise in the Pacific.

USS Essex (LHD 2) Launches a RIM-7P Sea Sparrow Missile

PHILIPPINE SEA - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) launches a RIM-7P Sea Sparrow missile from the ship's forward NATO mount during a live-fire missile exercise.

Essex ARG Embarks 31st MEU

OKINAWA, Japan – The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ESX ARG) embarked the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan Sept. 5-6 in support of the ESX ARG’s current patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

Essex ESG Completes Valiant Shield 2010

USS ESSEX, At sea (Sept. 22, 2010) – The Essex Expeditionary Strike Group (ESX ESG) completed its participation in exercise Valiant Shield 2010 (VS 10) Sept. 22, ending the 11-day joint U.S. military operation off the coast of Palau and Guam.

Members of the Indian armed forces tour the bridge of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

USS Essex (LHD 2) Conducts Exercise Habu Nag with India

USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) is participating in exercise Habu Nag 2010, an annual, bilateral amphibious training exercise between the United States and India taking place Sept. 29-Oct. 5.

USS Essex 31st MEU Conduct NEO

USS Essex, AT SEA (Oct 2, 2010) - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) worked in conjunction to conduct a non-combatant evacuation operation (NEO) exercise Oct. 1 off the coast of Okinawa, Japan.

Essex ARG Supports 31st MEU CERTEX

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 5, 2010) – The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), with support from the ships of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), completed a MEU certification exercise (CERTEX) Oct. 4 and is now certified for deployment.

Essex Amphibious Ready Group in the East China Sea

EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 3, 2010) - Seaman Brandon Cash assists in recovering Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in a combat rubber raiding craft as they return to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Commander James Johnson, command chaplain aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2)

Essex Sailors Visit Local School in Subic Bay

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (Oct. 14, 2010) -- Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) visited Sergia Soriano Esteban Integrated School of Kalaklan during a scheduled port visit Oct. 14.

Essex Hosts Naturalization Ceremony

SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines – Ten foreign nationals took an oath of allegiance to the United States during a naturalization ceremony aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex to officially become American citizens.

M-240B Machine Gun Fire Exercise

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 28, 2010) Aviation Ordnanceman1st Class Justin McCray, right, instructs Aviation Ordnance Airman Eric Bell on the correct use of an M-240B machine gun during a live fire exercise on the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex, commanded by Capt. Troy Hart, is part of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is underway in the Western Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey H. Kyhl)

USS Essex (LHD 2) Arrives in Singapore

SINGAPORE (Oct. 30, 2010) - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex arrived in Singapore for a scheduled port visit Oct. 30.

Sea and Anchor Detail form the Flight Deck Of USS ESSEX (LHD 2)

Sea and Anchor Detail from the Flight Deck of USS Essex (LHD 2)

CHANGI NAVAL BASE, Singapore (Oct. 30, 2010) - Lt. Scott Purcell supervises the sea and anchor detail from the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

USS Essex (LHD 2) in the Java Sea

JAVA SEA (Nov. 6, 2010) - Aviation boatswain's mates clean wheel stop combing aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Essex Sailors, 31st MEU Marines Experience Hong Kong

USS ESSEX, At sea (Nov. 20, 2010) – Sailors and Marines assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit experienced Hong Kong Nov. 17-19 through a variety of tours offered by the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) department.

USS Essex making a port visit to hong kong

USS Essex (LHD 2) Making a Port Visit to Hong Kong

HONG KONG (Nov. 19, 2010) A Hong Kong tour group takes pictures of in front of an AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft while visiting the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

USS Essex Conducts Landing Craft Operations with JMSDF Ships

EAST CHINA SEA (Dec. 6, 2010) A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force enters the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

JMSDF Aircraft Land on Essex Flight Deck

USS ESSEX, At Sea (Dec. 7, 2010) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) conducted flight deck landing qualifications (DLQs) with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF).

Keen Sword 2011 in Japan

EAST CHINA SEA (Dec. 6, 2010) - A Japan Maritime Self Defense Force landing craft air cushion vehicle approaches the well deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during exercise Keen Sword 2011.

Essex Returns to Sasebo Following Patrol of Western Pacific

SASEBO, Japan (Dec. 14, 2010) The crew of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), lead by Senior Chief Personnel Specialist Clint E. Christiansen, marches out to the flight deck to man the rails as the ship returns from Fall Patrol.

Juliet Wharf provides upgraded facilities for the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), JMSDF Ships and other visiting ship

Juliet Wharf Provides Upgraded Facilities for USS Essex, JMSDF Ships and Other Visiting Ships

SASEBO, Japan (Dec. 19, 2010) - Vice Adm. Koji Katoh, commander, Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) 3rd District, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, commander, Amphibious Force Seventh Fleet, and Rear Adm. Umio Otsuka, commander, JMSDF Flotilla Group 2, Rear Adm. Hidetoshi Fuchinoue, Capt. Francis Martin, commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo, and local civic leaders cut a ceremonial ribbon, officially opening Juliet Wharf at Fleet Activities Sasebo.

USS Essex Holds Change of Command

SASEBO, Japan (Jan. 20, 2011) - Capt. David Fluker walks through side boys during a change of command ceremony aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

USS Essex Departs for Western Pacific Patrol

The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departed Sasebo, Japan Jan. 25 for a patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

Marines from the 31st MEU embark the USS Essex (LHD2) for a patrol in the Western Pacific.

USS Essex Embarks 31st MEU

OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 28, 2011) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD2) embarked more than 1,200 Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa Jan. 27-28 in preparation for a patrol throughout the Western Pacific region.

Sailors and Marines unload 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit armories and equipment from a Landing Craft Utility 1634 to USS Denver

Essex ARG Embarks 31st MEU, Sails from Okinawa

OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 27, 2011) – The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) departed Okinawa, Japan Jan. 29 after onloading components of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Jan. 27-28.

Marines board a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter while an MH-60S Sea Hawk prepares to land on the flight deck of USS Essex

Essex ARG Begins Cobra Gold 2011

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 6, 2011) - The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) began its part in the U.S-Thai sponsored joint, multinational exercise Cobra Gold 2011 (CG 11) Feb. 7 in the Gulf of Thailand.

Fleet Surgical Team 7 Saves Essex Sailor’s Leg

USS ESSEX, At sea (Feb. 8, 2011) – Navy doctors, nurses, and a hospital corpsmen assigned to Fleet Surgical Team (FST) 7 performed critical surgery on a Sailor’s leg aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Feb. 7.

Essex ARG Conducts Successful NEO Exercise

USS ESSEX, At sea (Feb. 12, 2011) - The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted a non-combatant evacuation operation (NEO) exercise Feb. 12 off the coast of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Sailors direct a Royal Thai Navy Bell 212 helicopter aboard USS Essex (LHD 2).

Essex ARG Completes Cobra Gold 2011

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 16, 2011) Sailors direct a Royal Thai Navy Bell 212 helicopter as it prepares to land aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Essex Amphibious Ready Group Arrives in Thailand

PATTAYA, Thailand (Feb. 21, 2011) – Ships of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit arrived in Pattaya, Kingdom of Thailand, for a scheduled port visit Feb. 21 after completing the multinational exercise Cobra Gold 2011.

Essex ARG Arrives Off Cambodian Coast for MAREX

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 26, 2011) - The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived off the coast of Shinoukville, Cambodia, Feb. 26 to participate in the Cambodia Maritime Exercise 2011 (MAREX 11).

USS Essex Hosts Flight Deck Reception in Cambodia

GULF OF THAILAND (Feb. 26, 2011) - A color guard parades the colors on the flight deck of USS Essex (LHD 2) at the start of a reception for senior civil and military officials from the U.S. and Kingdom of Cambodia.

USS Essex Sailors Visit Cambodian Orphanage

SIHANOUKVILLE, Kingdom of Cambodia (March 2, 2011) – Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) participated in a community service (COMSERV) project March 2 at the Village d’enfant de Sihanoukville orphanage in Sihanoukville, Cambodia.

Sailors assigned to USS Essex (LHD 2) and Marines from the 31st MEU return to the ship at Sepangar Naval Base

Navy Units Prepare to Support Tsunami-Damaged Areas

SEPANGAR, Malaysia (March 11, 2001) - Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit return to the ship at Sepangar Naval Base to ensure the ship and crew are ready to support earthquake and tsunami relief operations in Japan if directed

Sailors on the bridge of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) navigate the ship to the coast of Japan.

Essex ARG Ready to Provide Assistance to Japan

SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 13, 2011) Sailors on the bridge of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) navigate the ship to the coast of Japan. Essex is off the coast to provide disaster relief and humanitarian assistance as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi.

USS Essex Loads Humanitarian Assistance Supplies Bound for Relief Effort in Japan

PHILIPPINE SEA (March 15, 2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter transports humanitarian assistance supplies from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9) to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Sailors move supplies into the hangar bay of USS Essex (LHD 2)

Essex ARG, 31st MEU Support Relief Efforts Off the Coast of Hachinohe

PACIFIC OCEAN (March 21, 2011) – Sailors move supplies into the hangar bay of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a vertical replenishment with USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9).

31st MEU and USS Essex Stay Safe During Relief Mission

PACIFIC OCEAN (March 21, 2011) – Radiological control technicians inspect cargo for possible low-level radioactive contamination as a precautionary measure.

A member of a Navy radiological assistance team, undergoes a radiological scan after arriving on the flight deck of USS Essex

Essex Embarks Radiological Assessment Control Team

SEA OF JAPAN (March 19, 2011) – Richard Teets, a member of a Navy radiological assistance team, undergoes a radiological scan after arriving on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

U.S. Marines and a member of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force unload humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies

USS Essex, 31st MEU Continue Relief Efforts in Japan

MIYAKO, Japan (March 22, 2011) - U.S. Marines and a member of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force unload humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies from a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter launched from the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Sailors with Amphibious Squadron 11 direct Japanese utility repair vehicles onto Landing Craft Unit 1634.

Essex ARG Assists Oshima Island in Restoring Power

PACIFIC OCEAN (Mar. 27, 2011) - Elements of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) combined efforts to restore power to Oshima Island, Japan, March 27.

Sailors attached to USS Essex (LHD 2) move a fishing boat from a harbor on Oshima Island, Japan.

Essex Sailors Conduct Beach Clean Up on Oshima Island

OSHIMA ISLAND (April 3, 2011) - Sailors attached to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) move a fishing boat from a harbor on Oshima Island, Japan. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group are on Oshima Island to help clear a harbor and assist with cleaning debris from roads and a local school in support of Operation Tomodachi.

USS Essex (LHD 2) transits in formation as JS Hyuga (DDH 181) transits in the background.

Essex ARG Concludes Operation Tomodachi Support

PACIFIC OCEAN (April 6, 2011) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) transits in formation as the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship JS Hyuga (DDH 181) transits in the background. Essex and the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) is operating off the coast of Kesenuma in support of Operation Tomodachi.

USS Essex offloads 31st MEU

OKINAWA, Japan (Apr. 13, 2011) - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) offloaded the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) April 12 at White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan.

USS Essex (LHD 2) to offload vehicles from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

Essex Completes Western Pacific Patrol

WHITE BEACH NAVAL FACILITY, Japan (April 12, 2011) - A landing craft utility approaches the well deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) to offload vehicles from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Essex Hosts Naturalization Ceremony

SASEBO, Japan – The flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) was the backdrop for 35 Sailors and Marines, nine spouses and two children becoming U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony May 20.

Japanese College Students Tour Essex

SASEBO, Japan – Japanese students from the University of Fukuoka had the opportunity to see the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) up close and personal during a ship tour May 27.

Essex ARG Departs Japan for Exercise Talisman Sabre

SASEBO, Japan - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) departs Fleet Activities Sasebo to participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2011.

31st MEU walk down the pier at White Beach Naval Facility to embark the USS Essex

USS Essex embarks 31st MEU Aviation Combat Element

After onloading the ground elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) got underway to embark aircraft from the MEU's Aviation Combat Element (ACE).

HSC 25 Trains with Essex ARG during Talisman Sabre 2011

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force cadets during a tour of USS Essex

JMSDF Cadets Tour USS Essex

Cadets of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) working aboard the Shirane class destroyer JS Kurama (DDH-144) toured the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Biological and radiological protection gear drill on board USS Essex (LHD 2).

Essex Sailors Prepare for ULTRA-C Evaluation

The crew of forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS ESSEX (LHD 2) prepared for its upcoming Unit Level Training Assessment-Certification (ULTRA-C) by fighting a simulated helicopter crash/fire and responding to a simulated mass casualty scenario on the flight deck.

Pacific Fleet Master Chief Visits USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan - Sailors from ship and shore commands across fleet activities Sasebo gathered aboard the USS Essex to discuss a number of important topics with Pacific Fleet Master Chief John Minyard.

Navy Announces USS Bonhomme Richard to Relieve USS Essex in Forward Deployed Role

The Navy announced Aug. 19 that USS Essex (LHD 2) will be relieved in February by USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) as the Navy's only permanently forward deployed amphibious assault ship in Sasebo, Japan

Inspectors Complete Training Assessment Aboard USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan – Sailors aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed a week-long limited training evaluation with Afloat Training Group (ATG) Western Pacific Aug. 26

USS Essex (LHD 2) Crew Celebrates Centennial of Naval Aviation

SASEBO, Japan (Sept. 2, 2011) - Capt. David Fluker, commanding officer of the USS Essex (LHD 2), addresses the ship's crew during a Centennial of Naval Aviation ceremony.

USS Essex (LHD 2) launches a RIM-7P Sea Sparrow missile during a live-fire missile exercise

USS Essex (LHD 2) ARG Departs for Western Pacific Patrol

SASEBO, Japan - Ships of the forward-deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) departed Sasebo, Japan Sept. 21 to begin a patrol of the Western Pacific region. During the patrol, Essex ARG will embark and work with elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to complete an amphibious integration training and certification exercise off the coast of Okinawa.

AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 214 lands on the flight deck of the USS Essex LHD2

AV-8B Harrier with Marine Attack Squadron 214 lands on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). USS Essex is part of the forward deployed Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and is conducting operations in the Western Pacific.

USS Essex (LHD 2) Sailors Complete Ordnance Onload Prior to Deployment

SASEBO, Japan - Sailors aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) completed an ordnance onload Sept. 23, to prepare for their deployment.

High mobility multi-purpose vehicles with the 31st MEU drive onto the USS Essex (LHD 2) at White Beach Naval Facility Okinawa

USS Essex embarks 31st MEU Aviation Combat Element

After completing the onload of the ground elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) got underway to embark aircraft with the MEU’s Aviation Combat Element (ACE).

USS Essex (LHD 2) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Justin Mitchell, right, fires the shot line to USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9)

USS Essex Completes Replenishment at Sea

PHILLIPINE SEA - The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) conducted a replenishment at sea (RAS), which included a vertical replenishment (VERTREP) of supplies, with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE 9) Oct. 3.

Marines assigned to the 31st MEU prepare to disembark the USS Essex

Essex Arrives in Subic Bay for Amphibious Landing Exercise

Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) prepare to disembark the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Sailors take the oath of allegiance during a naturalization ceremony held aboard USS Essex

Essex Hosts Naturalization Ceremony in Subic Bay

Eighteen Sailors became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Oct. 31.

Essex Celebrates Marine Corps’ 236th Birthday

Sailors and Marines aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) celebrated the Marine Corps’ 236th birthday on the ship’s flight deck Nov. 10.

USS Essex Embarks Indonesian Military Liaison Officers

INDIAN OCEAN (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) embarked four Indonesian military liaison officers during its current deployment, Nov. 14.

USS Essex and Stethem Arrive in Bali for Port Visit

BALI, Indonesia (Nov. 20, 2011) - The amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Bali, Indonesia Nov. 20 for a port visit during their deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean.

USS Essex Hosts Reception in Bali, Indonesia

BALI, Indonesia – Senior military and civil officials from the U.S. and Indonesia attended a reception hosted onboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Nov. 20 to celebrate cooperation between the two countries.

USS Essex Celebrates Thanksgiving At Sea

INDIAN OCEAN – Sailors and Marines aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex came together to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday at sea.

Sailors man the forward lookout watch on the signal bridge of USS Essex (LHD 2) as the ship arrives in Manila for a port visit.

Essex Arrives in Manila for Port Visit

MANILA, Republic of the Philippines (Nov. 28, 2011) – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) arrived in Manila, Republic of the Philippines Nov. 30 for a port visit.

Essex Completes Patrol of Western Pacific

SASEBO, JAPAN (Dec. 8, 2011) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) returned to Sasebo, Japan Dec. 8, after completing a two-and-a-half month patrol of the Western Pacific.

Japanese Artist Gives Thanks to Essex Through Artwork

SASEBO, Japan (Dec. 13, 2011) - Mr. Takashi Shima, a painter and photographer for over 50 years, visited the forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Tuesday Dec. 13 to deliver a painting of the ship to the commanding officer, Capt. David Fluker, in recognition of its participation in Operation Tomodachi. The water color painting shows Essex at sea during flight operations with several CH-53E Sea Stallions flying overhead.

Republic of Korea Consulate General and Principal Officer, U.S. Consulate Fukuoka Visit USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan - The Republic of Korea Consulate General Cho Jung-Won and Principal Officer U.S. Consulate Fukuoka Jason R. Cubas visited forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Dec.

Republic of Korea Consulate General Visits USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan - The Republic of Korea consulate general and the principal officer U.S. Consulate Fukuoka visited forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Dec. 29.

Chief of Navy’s Chaplain Corps Visits USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan – The Chief of Navy Chaplains, Rear Adm. Mark L. Tidd visited the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), Jan. 6.

USS Essex Hosts Years First Sasebo Navy League Business Meeting

SASEBO, Japan (Jan. 17, 2012) – Sasebo’s Navy League held their first business meeting of 2012 during a dinner held onboard USS Essex (LHD 2) Jan. 17.

Commander ESG 3 Visits Essex to Talk Hull Swap

SASEBO, Japan (Jan. 23, 2012) – Rear Adm. Gerard P. Hueber, commander Expeditionary Strike Group 3, visited the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) Jan. 23, to discuss with Essex leadership the upcoming hull swap with USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6).

At Sea Fire Drill Exercise on USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan - Damage Controlman 2nd Class Daniel Marks debriefs the at-sea fire party after a drill aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam M. Bennett/Released)

LCAC Enters Well Deck of USS Essex

SASEBO, Japan - A landing craft air cushioned vehicle, assigned to Assault Craft Unit Five Detachment Western Pacific (ACU-5), enters the well-deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Mackenzie P. Adams/Released)

First Class Advancement Exams on USS Essex

OKINAWA, Japan (March 1, 2012) Yeoman 2nd Class Kyle Parker takes his first class petty officer advancement examination aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Physical Training on board USS Essex (lhd2)

Sailors and Marines Conduct Physical Training on board USS Essex

PHILIPPINE SEA (March 8, 2012) – Sailors and Marines conducted physical training on the flight deck aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2).

Air Combat Element Embarks Aboard Essex

SOUTH CHINA SEA – The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) successfully embarked aircraft and aircrews from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's (MEU) Air Combat Element (ACE), March 5.

Capt. David Fluker answers questions for the Japanese media.

Japanese Media Visits USS Essex

PHILIPPINE SEA (March 10, 2012) - Capt. David Fluker, commanding officer of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) answers questions for Japanese press during a media visit March 10. Essex, is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed amphibious ready group.