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

NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN – Commander, Naval Surface Forces Pacific awarded the 2012 Battle Efficiency (Battle “E”) award to the forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) in a message released March 8.

The Battle “E” and Command Excellence Awards recognize sustained superior performance in an operational environment, as well as sustained continuous readiness throughout the Fleet Readiness Training Plan cycle.

"It is an honor for Tortuga to be recognized for the accomplishments that her Sailors have achieved during 2012," said Commanding Officer, Cmdr. John Barnett. "The crew has done a phenomenal job keeping Tortuga mission ready at all times, their high spirits have been overwhelming and their dedication to duty is the reason we're able to celebrate this award."

Tortuga was recognized for superior performance over the past year for significant achievements in the Command Excellence categories displaying distinction in maritime warfare capabilities, engineering/survivability, command and control, and the type commander's safety award.

The Battle “E” is based on a yearlong overall evaluation of Tortuga’s accomplishments during training exercises, various command inspections and a nomination from their immediate superior in command, Commander, Amphibious Squadron ELEVEN (PHIBRON 11).

Eligibility for the award required a consistent day-to-day demonstration of excellence and superior achievement during all certifications and qualifications conducted during the past year.

Tortuga may now display the big white letter "E" with the black shadow on her superstructure, along with several other awards as a testament to the focus, teamwork, pride and ownership demonstrated.

Bonhomme Richard ARG comprised of amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), and amphibious dock landing ships USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) is operating in the 7th Fleet area of operations and reports to Commander, Amphibious Forces 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan.