Fitzgerald Delivers Damage Control Lessons and Questions
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By Captain Gerry Roncolato, U.S. Navy
The Navy’s line-of-duty report released last week reaffirms that the crew members of the USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) reacted with professionalism, courage, and determination to save their shipmates and contain the flooding resulting from the collision. One Sailor, Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., gave his life to ensure everyone still alive was able to evacuate the space. His actions speak to a tradition of unselfishness and a willingness to sacrifice for one’s shipmates. Hopefully the Navy will appropriately honor his efforts and hold them up as an example to all Sailors.
The insights and questions offered here for consideration by Navy leadership stem from the report:
https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2017-08/fitzgerald-delivers-damage-control-lessons-and-questions