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This week’s Military Sealift Command “Ship in the Spotlight,” is USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4). The dry cargo and ammunition ship scored exceptionally well on its Ship Material Assessment and Readiness Test (SMART) Inspection. SMART inspections are intended to provide an accurate assessment of the material condition and mission readiness of the ship. The goal is to capture the actual material condition of our ships, vice past practice of extensive preparation or “grooming” ships just for the inspection. Raw, “AS IS” SMART inspection outcomes help guide maintenance and repair budgeting and scheduling decisions. Richard E. Byrd’s crew demonstrated exceptional skill and ability. Inspectors said they have not seen this level of skill and engagement on any other T-AKE in quite some time.