Naval command leads anti-terror training
Commander of Second Fleet: "The military needs to turn their insights into great relationships with these agencies."
By Louis Hansen
The Virginian-Pilot
NORFOLK, Va. — Since Sept. 11, the Navy's 2nd Fleet has brought new focus to a once-minor responsibility — homeland security and protection.
In June, the command brought together 3,000 personnel from U.S. and Canadian agencies to practice for a terror attack in a New England harbor. It was the largest exercise since the countries began planning counterterrorism training five years ago.
Vice Adm. Marty Chanik, commander of Second Fleet, said the Navy needs to build on these ties to respond to actual emergencies. In addition to the two militaries, the exercise included more than a dozen local, state and federal agencies.
"The military needs to turn their insights into great relationships with these agencies," he said.
Chanik, 57, hands over command to Vice Adm. Melvin Williams today . Chanik, an F-14 fighter pilot, will officially retire from the Navy in October after more than 30 years .
Second Fleet is responsible for training and operations in the Atlantic Ocean.
During Chanik's two years at the helm, the fleet expanded its ability to establish maritime headquarters and operations centers for joint missions. This gives the military the ability to set up offshore from troubled nations or countries devastated by natural disaster.
Second Fleet continues to be responsible for running pre-deployment training exercises off the North American coast.
The homeland security training has focused on securing ports and harbors, and defending against terrorist attacks launched from ships.
Chanik said the military and the Department of Homeland Security, established after Sept. 11, still face challenges in coordinating agencies. But he said the training has built "muscle memory" into the force.
Capt. Steve Zaricor, director of operations and plans, said they have established a base for the nations to build on. "It's all about personal connections."
The Navy has learned its limitations, Chanik said. For example, the chain of command does not include civilian agencies, so the Navy must understand how civilian and foreign counterparts get things done.
"You can command the military side," he said, "but you can't command the nonmilitary side."
Commander, 2nd Fleet, Vice Adm. Marty Chanik hands over command today .
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