YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG67) departed Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Sept. 8.

The ship is underway on a routine patrol incorporating readiness and a new schedule for the crew's watchstanders.

Shiloh is implementing a new "circadian rhythm" schedule during the underway. Circadian rhythm is a schedule where crewmembers, working irregular hours, manage their off time to go to sleep at the same time each day. The intention for the new schedule is to help Sailors maximize their downtime and amount of sleep to stay alert and focused during working hours.

"According to science and human physiology research, establishing a static watch rotation [circadian rhythm] increases overall physical health, watch performance, mission combat readiness, and crew morale," said Chief Hospital Corpsman Shane J. Seery, Shiloh's independent duty corpsman. "This plan is designed to give Sailors flexibility to manage their time."

This underway will also include training such as damage control drills, engineering drills, and seamanship training drills. Members from the Afloat Training Group Western Pacific, a command created to teach and asses Navy units on various qualifications, will inspect Shiloh's performance during the drills. These drills will help prepare Shiloh for its fall deployment.

"Surface ship readiness is bar-none the hottest topic in the force right now," said Lt. j.g. Gordon A. Murray, Shiloh's training officer. "Here in 7th Fleet, where operational commitments consistently override the traditional training and maintenance cycles enjoyed by ships stateside, I am confident that ATG's fresh pair of eyes will help identify areas for additional focus to ensure our team remains at maximum combat readiness and ready to go when the time comes."

Once the training is complete, Shiloh's crew will be a ready force in the area of 7th Fleet area of operations.

Shiloh is underway in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia Pacific.

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