YOKOSUKA, Japan — The commander of the Pacific Fleet is looking forward to his chance to check the USS Antietam for high dust, gear adrift, and fresh paint jobs.
“I could check to see if the ship is battle ready, all the engines are in order, or if the crew is being treated right," Adm. Harry B. Harris said, “But what I really want to see is if the ship is clean."
Capt. Michael A. McCartney, commanding officer of Antietam, has been making his crew work hundred-hour weeks for a month to ensure his ship meets the Admiral’s standards of cleanliness. Sailors are busy sweeping the weatherdecks, shining brightwork, and sanding down perfectly-good paint so it can be repainted.