PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 2, 2011) - Thirty-two newly assigned Sailors aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) faced a new approach in command indoctrination.

In an effort to create a smooth transition for their new Sailors, Denver leadership revamped its welcome aboard program by creating a four day indoctrination class which covers and array of topics that are important to the Sailors success.

“New personnel will have a chance to hear from different lecturer with their expertise on each of the topic, which makes the class more interesting,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW/FMF) Darnell Vinson, indoctrination program coordinator.

Topics during the class include personnel administration, personal financial management, U.S. Marine Corps overview – Blue and Green (Navy and Marines) relations and Navy pride and professionalism.

Sailors are also given information on Navy wide programs available to them while aboard Denver.

On day one of the class, they were introduced to Denver’s senior leadership. The commanding and executive officer and command master chief spoke with the new Sailors and held a question and answer session. They also offered words of advice to the Sailors that were aimed revealing the opportunities available to them in the Navy and bringing the Sailors into the fold as a member of the Denver team.

“Meeting and listening to words of your commanding officer is very inspiring and very motivating, considering being aboard the ship for a few days,” said Machinist Mate Fireman Ian Bradley from Redmond, Wash.

The senior leaders spoke with the Sailors about the sights, sounds and culture of Japan and the unique opportunity of being stationed in the partner nation. They also spoke to the Sailors about the chances they will receive while on Denver to see the wide variety of foreign ports in the 7th Fleet.

A great emphasis was also placed on the consequences of poor conduct and the negative effect of alcoholism, underage drinking and the Navy’s zero tolerance on illegal drug use.

“I believe what their telling me is very true and honest. If I stick to what they said, I can make my time on Denver not only a good time, but also a successful tour,” Bradley added.

The indoctrination schedule will continue for months after Sailors stay with their respective department. The focus will shift on acquiring on-time qualification and re-qualification into Sailors personnel qualification standard (PQS) in Basic Damage Control, 3M (Material, Maintenance and Management) and at their professional rating.

“It feels great to have an opportunity to pass down things that I have learned in my 16 years in service to these young Sailors,” said Vinson.

Denver, commanded by Capt. Mario Misfud, is part of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group and is underway in the Western Pacific.