USS JOHN C. STENNIS, at sea – The price of a 90,000 ton nuclear powered aircraft carrier is $4.5 billion, six-month docking-planned incremental availability (dPIA) – $240 million, finishing dPIA one day ahead of schedule – priceless.

Approximately 300 sailors aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) were recognized at sea May 2 for their hard work during an extensive dPIA period.

“It took every bit of heart and spirit these sailors could muster,” said Stennis Commanding Officer, Capt. Brad Johanson. “I cannot adequately explain my pride in the work the Stennis crew has done.” Every department aboard Stennis played an integral part in the completion of 7,000 work requests that totaled more than 410,000 man-hours of labor.

“They deserve every minute of this,” said Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AW/SW) David Bentz, leading chief petty officer for the habitability team during dPIA. “We do a thankless job most times. Recognition can be what really keeps people motivated. Without these sailors we never would have finished dPIA. They’re the ones who did it.”

Sailors received their awards in front of their respective departments.

“It feels really good to be recognized,” said Air Traffic Controlman Airman Apprentice Victor Gonzalez, who worked as a fire watch during the entire dPIA. “I like knowing I had a part in the ship’s safety and accomplishments. It just feels good.”

These sailors demonstrate the Navy’s desire to instill in our military a focus on mission and individual readiness that is underpinned by the warrior ethos. It is individuals like these who will carry out the maritime strategy, helping to safeguard the world’s shipping lanes.

Stennis is currently underway, heading toward San Diego to conduct a series of exercises including flight deck certification and working in conjunction with Carrier Air Wing 9 (CVW 9) during the Tailored Ship’s Training Availability.