No team raised morale higher during deployment than the Retail Specialists aboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). The S-3 Division expertly manages the ship’s retail operations, including a bustling Ship’s Store, Chuckie’s Café, and an impressive 22 total vending machines.
During our five-month Western Pacific deployment in the dynamic 7th Fleet area of operations, the S-3 team went above and beyond to enhance the crew's experience. They procured a remarkable selection of unique regional delicacies through NEXCOM's Japan catalog, bringing a taste of the local culture to our Sailors. Among the crew's favorites were the invigorating Georgia Coffee, refreshing Suntory CC Lemon soda, flavorful Maruchan rice and noodle bowls, and the luxurious Royal Milk Tea — all of which turned routine breaks into moments of delight.
Keeping the Ship’s Store stocked and operational to satisfy the appetites of over 4,500 Sailors is no small feat. Remarkably, the Retail Specialists managed to accomplish this during 10+ replenishment-at-sea (RAS) evolutions, successfully receiving 450+ pallets of merchandise to ensure mission readiness.
Thanks to the diligence and hard work of the S-3 team, a total of $400K in profits earned during deployment was transferred to the command’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) fund. This fund is instrumental in the execution of a diverse array of command-wide events to include holiday parties, luaus, exciting overseas tours, as well as providing prizes for competitions and sporting events. The impact of this initiative cannot be overstated; it exemplifies the S-3 team’s commitment to boosting morale and enhancing the overall quality of life aboard the CVN. Bravo Zulu, S-3!
