ABOARD USS NASSAU -- The roar of white mist producing propellers boomed throughout the bowels of USS Nassau, as Navy craftmasters skillfully docked a Landing Craft Air Craft from Assault Craft Unit 4 aboard an access ramp during a driver training and cargo movement exercise Aug. 26, 2007.
“The purpose of this is to give them the chance to drive on to various ramps and maneuver on the ship in tight spaces,” said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Bargallo, combat cargo assistant, Combat Cargo, Ships Company.
The Nassau is designed for docking smaller Land Craft Utilities, causing LCAC craftmasters to adjust to relatively small embarking areas.
“The LCAC travels faster and further than the LCU, which performs to the MEU’s capabilities, transporting supplies from ship to shore quickly,” said Bargallo.
While the LCAC hauled supplies and several Marines from shore, Navy gunners mates increased proficient in assault craft loading and unloading operating procedures.
The LCAC exercise is one of several events facilitating generation of standard operating procedures as during Tactical Commanders Amphibious Training aboard USS Nassau.