Changes to how the Navy processes awards makes it easier for Sailors to confirm their personal decorations and medals are reflected in their Official Military Personnel File (OMPF), officials said Jan. 29.

The future aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford received its island during a ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding Jan. 26.

Following a nine-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea, the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) returned to Naval Station Norfolk today marking the successful conclusion of her maiden Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) deployment.

Guided-missile frigate USS Curts (FFG 38) concluded 29 years of service to the Navy during a decommissioning ceremony Jan. 25 at Naval Base San Diego.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Martin Dempsey announced Jan. 24 the rescission the 1994 Direct Ground Combat Definition and Assignment Rule for women and that the Department of Defense plans to remove gender-based barriers to service.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus released the following statement Jan. 24 on the Women in Service Review.

Forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), flagship of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), departed Jan. 24 for a deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

The Navy announced plans Jan. 23 to promote safety and provide education and awareness on the dangers of irresponsible alcohol use and the negative impact it has on mission accomplishment, by introducing the use of alcohol detection devices (ADD) across the fleet.

The Defense Department website for military children has added new features to help parents and educators explain difficult topics of the military lifestyle to children.

The U.S. 7th Fleet Commander on Saturday expressed regret over the grounding of USS Guardian (MCM 5) on Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea.

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert concluded a weeklong visit to Brazil Saturday, Jan. 19 where he spoke with naval leadership, toured multiple navy and marine corps bases, and expanded maritime partnership opportunities.

The Surface Navy Association wrapped up three days of information sharing and networking when the 25th Annual National Symposium in Arlington, Va., concluded Jan. 17.

Sailors aboard amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46), along with Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), completed amphibious integration training (AIT) while on deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations, Jan. 30.

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus rolled out his new "Four Ps" during a speech at the 25th Annual Surface Navy Association Symposium in Arlington, Va. Jan. 17.

Shore special programs detailers are currently looking for Sailors in pay grades E-5 and above to serve as recruiters, said a Navy official Jan. 16.

As announced by NAVADMIN 009/13 released Jan. 16, the Navy joins the nation in celebrating the vibrant history and culture of African American and Black Sailors during African American/Black History Month throughout the month of February.