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Batman47 Board Founder/CNC User is Offline Joined: 10 Feb 2007 Posts: 394 Karma: 5 applaud / smite 425 points 0 warnings 0 tempbans	Posted: Tue May 20, 2008 1:06 am    Post subject: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) - OEF - WestPac - 792nd FWFD · Quote USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) with CVW-14 and Rear Adm. Scott Hebner, Commander, Carrier Strike Group Seven who relieved Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup on 27 October 2008, while on deployment in the 7th Fleet Area of Operations, arriving San Diego, Calif. on 25 November 2008, as hundreds of friends and family members gathered  pierside, with Capt. Kenneth Norton commanding, who assumed command  May 2, departing on 19 May 2008; her third “Westpac” in support of national and theater cooperative security commitments in the western Pacific, and Indian Ocean in support of the global war on terrorism, her 2nd Operation Enduring Freedom and 2nd  Maritime Security Operations (MSO) deployment on the U. S. Navy’s 89th Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet ended. the US 5th Fleet, reactivated with operational control of the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain in July 1995, while U.S. Naval Forces Central Command operational control extends to the Indian Ocean following the war with Iraq (Operation Desert Storm), with the Commander, 7th Fleet, serving as naval component commander for Central Command, at the beginning of Operation Southern Watch.  Underway in the Eastern Pacific from 19 to 21 May 2008 operating with the 3rd Fleet, while from the 22 to 25 operating areas was not reported. Fourteen fallen shipmates were committed to the sea, May 26, off the coast of Hawaii, during a burial at sea service aboard Ronald Reagan and  two-hundred and forty-seven of the Navy's petty officers received promotions during a frocking ceremony, May 26. Remaining off the waters of Hawaii, the ships of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 commenced an undersea warfare exercise (USWEX) in the waters of the Hawaiian operating area, May 28. Participating in the exercise was the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), and the ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Gridley (DDG 101) and USS Howard (DDG 83) and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43). Two nuclear-powered fast attack submarines also participated. Operating areas from 29 to 30 May were not reported. Underway in the Pacific from 31 May to 4 June 2008, crossing the International Date Line and entered the 7th Fleet AOR on 5 June 2008. Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of World War II Navy veterans June 6, during a ceremony held aboard Thach as the ship passed Wake Island, marking the 66th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. Thach, the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62); and the other ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON 7), the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Howard (DDG 83) and USS Gridley (DDG 101) operated as part of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. Underway on “WestPac” from 5 to 18 June 2008, Ronald Regan entered the Philippine Sea on 13 June 2008 and the South China Sea on 17 June 2008, while six ships and more than 7,000 Sailors of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (CSG) arrived in Hong Kong June 19 for a scheduled port visit. Many of the COMREL projects CSG 7 Sailors volunteered for directly benefited children and the elderly. USS Decatur and USS Ronald Reagan Sailors -- 45 in all -- visited the Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children's Wai Yin Nursery School, where they sang songs and played games with the children. Underway on “WestPac” from  22 to 24 June 2008, Ronald Reagan and other U.S. Navy ships arrived on station near the central Philippine island of Panay in the Sulu Sea June 25 to join the humanitarian assistance mission being led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the wake of damage caused by Typhoon Fengshen. Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and other supporting ships teamed with their counterparts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to deliver much-needed relief supplies to the victims of Typhoon Fengshen on the island of Panay June 26.  A Ronald Reagan Sailor, Storekeeper Seaman Grace Geroche, a native of Iloilo City, Republic of the Philippines, returned home June 27 to assist the joint Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and U.S. Navy humanitarian efforts and console her family, who nearly lost their lives when Typhoon Fengshen struck the area. U.S. ambassador to the Philippines Kristie A. Kenney joined by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Alexander Yano, came aboard June 29, to receive a briefing on the continuing effort to assist victims of Typhoon Fengshen, and to thank Sailors for their support of AFP-led humanitarian efforts on the island of Panay. Ronald Reagan remained off the coast of Panay Island in the Sulu Sea providing humanitarian assistance and disaster response in the wake of Typhoon Fengshen from 25 June to 3 July 2008, departing the Sulu Sea and the waters around the Philippine island of Panay, July 3, after assisting the Philippine government's humanitarian relief operation. Prior to the group's departure, senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) thanked the more than 40 members of the strike group's humanitarian assistance support team in a special ceremony. Underway on “WestPac” from 4 to 5 July 2008, Ronald Reagan pulled into Agana Harbor off the coast of Guam and visited from 6 to 9 July 2008. Underway on “WestPac” from 10 to 13 July 2008, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, including four ships and more than 5,500 Sailors, arrived in Republic of Korea ports July 14 for routine port visits, with the the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) docking in Busan, while the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73) and USS Howard (DDG 83) moored in the port city of Chinhae, visiting Busan, Republic of Korea from 14 to 17 July 2008, during which time the Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) Justin Melton was meritoriously promoted to chief petty officer (CPO) July 17 in a ceremony honoring the Navy's top performers. More than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 and five ships departed two Republic of Korea ports July 18 after a routine port visit marked by numerous community service activities across the area. More than 240 strike group Sailors donated their off-duty time at orphanages, rehabilitation centers for the disabled and homes for the elderly July 15-16. Twenty Sailors from USS Howard (DDG 83) visited a children's home July 17 in Chinhae, Republic of Korea, with 25 Sailors from the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN), continuing a decade-long tradition of U.S. Navy ships supporting the home.Underway in the East China Sea on 18 July 2008, resuming operations and “WestPac” from 19 to 27 July 2008. More than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group 7 (CSG) and five ships arrived in Japan for a routine port visit July 28, while the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) stopped in Yokosuka, and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) anchored in Fukuoka, while it was reported that one hundred-sixteen USS Thach Sailors scaled Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak, July 26 during the ship's port visit to Yokosuka, Japan. The storied 12,389-foot mountain is the legendary home of a fire god, a Shinto goddess of flowing trees and is also known as the home to a Buddhist god of wisdom. Japanese culture associates the peak to heaven because the mountain is revered for its enormous size. More than half of Thach's crew made the historic climb. More than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group 7 (CSG) and five ships arrived in Japan for a routine port visit July 28; visiting Sasebo, Japan from 28 to 31 July 2008, four ships and more than 5,000 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group 7 (CSG) 7 departed Japan July 31 and August 1 after routine port visits marked by numerous displays of goodwill and community service throughout the country. While in Japan, more than 200 strike group Sailors volunteered their time and effort to help make a difference in various Japanese communities by participating in eight Community Relations (COMREL) projects at local high schools and orphanages.Uunderway on “WestPac” from 1 to 4 August 2008, Ronald Reagan operated in the South China Sea from 5 to 12 August 2008 and the Java Sea from 13 to 17 August 2008.Three ships and more than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 arrived in Port Kelang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for a routine port visit Aug. 18, accompanied with the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) pulled into Port Kelang, visiting Port Kelang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 18 to 21 August 2008, departing Malaysia Aug. 21 after routine port visits highlighted by displays of good will, community service and a variety of cultural tours. While in Kuala Lumpur, more than 200 strike group Sailors volunteered to help make a difference in several Malaysian communities by participating in eight community relations projects at local children's homes. Chief petty officer selectees from Ronald Reagan painted the Agathians Shelter Children's Home in Petaling Jaya, a neighboring city. Sailors also embarked on tours offered by morale, welfare and recreation. Several buses traveled to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, a shelter used to relocate elephants that disturb crops and farmland. Underway in the Indian Ocean from 21 to 27 August 2008, the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group assumed the duties as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 Aug. 28, and launched its first sorties into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 departed the decks of the strike group’s flagship, bound for Afghanistan to support coalition ground forces. Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group joined by the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) relieved the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Carrier Strike Group on station who has operated in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO), performing the CTF 50 mission for just over four months or since April. Other CSG-7 ships supported Maritime Security Operations (MSO) while deployed to the region. The guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Howard (DDG 83) and USS Gridley (DDG 101), as well as the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) joined Coalition Task Forces 152 and 150 help deter destabilizing activities and ensure a lawful maritime order in the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman and Gulf of Aden. “Abraham Lincoln and her Sailors performed incredibly well,” said Capt. Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan’s commanding officer. “We received an outstanding turnover from Lincoln, and we’re here to provide the same high level of support to our coalition troops.” The squadrons of CVW-14 include the “Redcocks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, the “Fist of the Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Stingers” of VFA-113, the “Eagles” of VFA-115, the “Black Eagles” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, the “Cougars” of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, and the “Black Knights” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4. Underway in the North Arabian Sea from 28 August to 1 October 2008, during which time forty-two Sailors from USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 and Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 7 entered the ranks of the chief petty officer (CPO) during a CPO pinning ceremony on the aircraft carrier's flight deck Sept. 16 and Rock singer Scott Stapp visited and performed a concert for Ronald Reagan Sailors Sept. 24, while the ship remained on station in the Gulf of Oman providing support for Operation Enduring Freedom. The concert, hosted by the ship's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) department, was held on the flight deck for the entire crew as part of a motivational 'thank you' to service members from Stapp and his band. Ronald Reagan made a port visit in the Middle East from 2 to 5 October 2008. More than 70 Sailors assigned to the Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wcng (CVW) 14 gathered on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier Oct. 13 to reaffirm their oath of enlistment during a mass re-enlistment ceremony. Approximately $2.4 million in Selective Re-enlistment Bonus' (SRB) were awarded to re-enlisting Sailors. The benefits are not taxable, as the ship is currently operating in the 5th Fleet area of operations, and combat zone tax exclusion applies. Sailors also received other perks, such as special liberty, 30 days of duty exemption and head-of-the-line privileges.U underway in the North Arabian Sea from 6 to 18 October 2008 and the Indian Ocean from 19 to 24 October 2008, visiting Port Kelang, Malaysia from 25 to 31 October 2008, during which time Commander Carrier Strike Group 7 (CCSG 7) held a change of command ceremony aboard Ronald Reagan Oct. 27. Rear Adm. Scott Hebner took command of CCSG 7 from Rear Adm. James P. Wisecup, who will take command as the president of the Naval War College in Newport, R.I. Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 ships USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and USS Decatur (DDG 73) participated in a bilateral exercise with a Royal Thai Navy ship off the coast of Phuket, Thailand Nov. 1. Officers from the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville and the guided-missile destroyer Decatur carried out seamanship maneuvers with HTMS Chaopraya, the participating ship from Thailand's navy. Underway in the Western Pacific from 1 to 14 November 2008, concluding military operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) on the 14th. "The talented and dedicated Sailors of this strike group performed at the highest levels of excellence," said Rear Adm. Scott Hebner, commander of CSG-7. "I'm tremendously honored to sail with them all. U.S. Navy and Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel coordinated efforts, forming an emergency response team to distribute immediate aid to stricken typhoon victims. Engineers from Ronald Reagan repaired two hospital generators, restoring electrical power. Air crews flew 332 sorties around Panay Island, delivering more than 519,000 pounds of vital supplies to typhoon victims.The strike group also participated in training exercise with key maritime partners. USS Howard participated in South East Asia Cooperation against Terrorism (SEACAT), training with the navies of Brunei, Singapore and the Republic of the Philippines in maritime security operations. Later, the strike group took part in Exercise Malabar 2008, a bilateral training exercise with the Indian Navy, improving the communications and coordination capabilities of the two navies as a dozen U.S. and Indian ships drilled in surface, air and subsurface training. Another key mission area for the Ronald Reagan Strike Group was engagement. While in 7th fleet, CSG-7 ships made port calls to Sasebo, Japan; Hong Kong; Busan, Republic of Korea; Guam; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand and Singapore. During the port visits, Sailors enjoyed tours, purchased souvenirs, tasted Asian cuisine and volunteered their time in various orphanages, schools and elderly care centers. "Ronald Reagan Sailors were models of ambassadorship at each and every stop we made. Our Sailors consider these port visits 'duty ashore' and performed these duties in an exemplary fashion, showing our friends around Asia the best America has to offer," said Capt. Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer. Entering the U.S. 3rd Fleet Area of Responsibility, the ships of CSG-7 were underway in the Pacific from 15 to 16 November 2008, visiting Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 17 to 18 November 2008 and upon departure conducted Tiger Cruise en route to San Diego. Calif. from 19 to 24 November 2008, returning tto San Diego. Calif. on 25 November 2008. Her 4th deployment ended since her commission on what would be approximately the U. S. Navy's 792nd carrier FWFD. http://www.freepowerboards.com/owcommandpost/viewtopic.php?p=12745#12745 The Ronald Reagan Strike Group is comprised of CCSG 7, CVW-14, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Gridley (DDG 101), USS Howard (DDG 83) and the guided missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) and the fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (TAOE 7). The squadrons of CVW-14 include the "Redcocks" of VFA-22, "Fist of the Fleet" of VFA-25, "Stingers" of VFA-113, "Eagles" of VFA-115, "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, "Cougars" of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, "Providers" of Carrier Logistics Support (VRC) 30 and the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4. USS Ronald Reagan Departs on Third Deployment Story Number: NNS080520-21 Release Date: 5/20/2008 3:04:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bill Larned, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and embarked staffs and squadrons departed from San Diego May 19, for a scheduled Western Pacific deployment, as hundreds of friends and family members gathered pierside, waving banners and shouting farewells. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37278 USS Ronald Reagan Hosts Burial At Sea Story Number: NNS080527-02 Release Date: 5/27/2008 12:19:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Courtney Dock, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Fourteen fallen shipmates were committed to the sea, May 26, off the coast of Hawaii, during a burial at sea service aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37419 USS Ronald Reagan Promotes Sailors Story Number: NNS080527-10 Release Date: 5/27/2008 12:33:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zach Hawkins, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Two-hundred and forty-seven of the Navy's petty officers received promotions during a frocking ceremony, May 26, aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37420 Carrier Strike Group 7 Hones Anti-Submarine Warfare Skills in USWEX Story Number: NNS080529-09 Release Date: 5/29/2008 3:13:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The ships of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 commenced an undersea warfare exercise (USWEX) in the waters of the Hawaiian operating area, May 28. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37484 USS Thach Commemorates Battle of Midway Story Number: NNS080609-03 Release Date: 6/9/2008 10:03:00 AM By Ensign Johannes Schonberg, USS Thach Public Affairs USS THACH, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of World War II Navy veterans June 6, during a ceremony held aboard Thach as the ship passed Wake Island, marking the 66th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37699 USS Howard Stays Connected to Families With "United Through Reading" Story Number: NNS080610-11 Release Date: 6/10/2008 2:26:00 PM By Yeoman Seaman Scott Moore, USS Howard Public Affairs USS HOWARD, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors stationed aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) are keeping in touch with loved ones back home through "United Through Reading," a voluntary program offered by the ship. Howard Sailors are videotaped reading children's books aloud, the taped reading sessions are converted to DVDs and then sent to crew members' children, keeping families connected while at sea. "I took part in organizing this program last year and I wanted to be a part of it again for this deployment," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Walter Womack. "I set up a camera in a designated area where the Sailor can have some privacy. Each participant gets 30 minutes to read a book, tell a story or communicate to their loved ones however they want." Seeing a loved one's face helps children with the bonding process, assures them that their loved ones are okay, and helps children learn the rhythm of their Sailor's voice, according to the United Through Reading Web site. "The program is completely free," said Womack, who has two grandsons and a granddaughter. "We provide the DVD for the recording and we provide the material to mail it. I did a videotape last deployment and my grandchildren loved it. My grandson has been asking me when I'm going to send him another one and I'm looking forward to making that happen for him." A Sailor plays a direct role in their child's education when reading aloud. "Reading to children stimulates learning while we're away," said Lt. j.g. Robert Liberato, Howard's training officer. "The program tries to make sure the children have a familiar face reading to them to keep them thinking and connected intellectually and emotionally." Liberato explained that communication with family increases the morale and personal welfare of deployed Sailors separated from loved ones. "I think it's beneficial because we're away from our loved ones for such a long period of time, and to be able to communicate with your family through videotape really helps emotionally," said Navy Counselor 1st Class Kevin Goodman, Howard's command career counselor. "I don't want my daughter to forget me, or anything about me," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Lenoyf Collins. "With United Through Reading, I can make sure that my daughter sees my face and hears my voice letting her know that her daddy loves her and misses her every day." Hundreds of DVDs are expected to be sent during the current deployment, according to program coordinators. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37742 Ronald Reagan CSG Arrives in Hong Kong Story Number: NNS080619-09 Release Date: 6/19/2008 3:39:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs HONG KONG (NNS) -- The six ships and more than 7,000 Sailors of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (CSG) arrived in Hong Kong June 19 for a scheduled port visit. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37950 Carrier Strike Group 7 Departs Hong Kong After Port Visit Story Number: NNS080623-10 Release Date: 6/23/2008 1:53:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs HONG KONG (NNS) -- The six ships and more than 7,000 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 departed Hong Kong, June 22, after four days in port. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37985 U.S. Navy Ships On Station To Support Armed Forces of the Philippines Story Number: NNS080625-14 Release Date: 6/25/2008 9:38:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs ILOILO, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- USS Ronald Reagan and other U.S. Navy ships arrived on station near the central Philippine island of Panay June 25 to join the humanitarian assistance mission being led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the wake of damage caused by Typhoon Fengshen. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38063 US Navy, Armed Forces of the Philippines Deliver Supplies to Typhoon-Ravaged Areas Story Number: NNS080626-04 Release Date: 6/26/2008 4:06:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs ILOILO, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and other supporting ships teamed with their counterparts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to deliver much-needed relief supplies to the victims of Typhoon Fengshen on the island of Panay June 26. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38077 Sailor Returns to Devastated Home, Assists Typhoon Victims Story Number: NNS080628-17 Release Date: 6/28/2008 10:36:00 PM By LT Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38119 U.S. Ambassador to Philippines Visits USS Ronald Reagan Story Number: NNS080630-02 Release Date: 6/30/2008 10:46:00 AM From USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs ABOARD USS RONALD REAGAN (NNS) -- The U.S. ambassador to the Philippines visited the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) on June 29. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38135 USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Group Departs Philippines After Helping Typhoon Victims Story Number: NNS080703-03 Release Date: 7/3/2008 3:36:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs Carrier Group 7 Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) departed the Sulu Sea and the waters around the Philippine island of Panay, July 3, after assisting the Philippine government's humanitarian relief operation. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38237 Carrier Strike Group 7 Arrives in Republic of Korea Story Number: NNS080714-04 Release Date: 7/14/2008 4:56:00 PM From Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs BUSAN, South Korea (NNS) -- Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, including four ships and more than 5,500 Sailors, arrived in Republic of Korea ports July 14 for routine port visits. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38459 Reagan Sailor Meritoriously Promoted to Chief Petty Officer Story Number: NNS080718-06 Release Date: 7/18/2008 3:42:00 PM By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Steve James, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year was meritoriously promoted to chief petty officer (CPO) July 17 in a ceremony honoring the Navy's top performers. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38533 CSG-7 Sailors Lend a Hand in Korea Story Number: NNS080719-12 Release Date: 7/19/2008 9:05:00 AM By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class (AW/SW) Bill Larned Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- More than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 and five ships departed two Republic of Korea ports July 18 after a routine port visit marked by numerous community service activities across the area. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38574 US, Republic of Korea Sailors Work Together to Help Children Story Number: NNS080721-08 Release Date: 7/21/2008 4:41:00 PM By Ens. Kristi Coonfare, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs CHINHAE, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Twenty Sailors from USS Howard (DDG 83) visited a children's home July 17 in Chinhae, Republic of Korea, with 25 Sailors from the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN), continuing a decade-long tradition of U.S. Navy ships supporting the home. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38589 Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Arrives In Japan Story Number: NNS080728-08 Release Date: 7/28/2008 2:33:00 PM From USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- More than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group 7 (CSG) and five ships arrived in Japan for a routine port visit July 28. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38756 Thach Sailors Climb Mount Fuji Story Number: NNS080801-16 Release Date: 8/1/2008 2:29:00 PM By Ens. Johannes Schonberg, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) - Ronald Reagan Strike Group Public Affairs USS Thach Public Affairs MOUNT FUJI, Japan (NNS) -- One hundred-sixteen USS Thach Sailors scaled Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak, July 26 during the ship's port visit to Yokosuka, Japan. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38876 USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Departs Japan         From Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs AT SEA ABOARD USS RONALD REAGAN IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC - Four ships and more than 5,000 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group 7 (CSG) 7 departed Japan July 31 and August 1 after routine port visits marked by numerous displays of goodwill and community service throughout the country. http://www.reagan.navy.mil/news.html USS Howard Holds "Boot-Off;" Professionalism Shines Story Number: NNS080808-08 Release Date: 8/8/2008 2:44:00 PM By Ensign Kristi Coonfare, USS Howard Public Affairs USS HOWARD, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Howard (DDG 83) got back to basics Aug. 6 with the final round of its first boot-shining competition. The two-day competition featured a Sailor from each of Howard's 18 divisions vying for a day of duty exemption in the ship's next port call and a $25 Navy Exchange gift card. The day before the final event, participation in the initial round was overwhelming. The mess decks were packed with cheering Sailors. Because each of Howard's 18 divisions sent two representatives to the competition, divisional support and pride in their representatives were on full display. "If you want to see the other boots, just look in the reflection of Seaman Harding's boots," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Robert Banker about his shipmate's footwear. Only four candidates made it through the grueling judging panel of chief petty officers for the final round. The top four finalists were given one additional night to spit, shine, and polish their boots for the championship round. The championship round included Capt. William Nault, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 7 as final judge. With Howard Sailors forming a 'Soul Train' line on the ship's foc'sle and a disc jockey blaring music, each contestant danced to show-off their boots through a tunnel of Sailors towards the judging platform. Nault inspected each set of boots. Silence and tension built as Nault made his rounds. With a critical eye, he walked past the four candidates one last time judging their shoelaces, edge dressing, and overall shine. With a final nod of his head, Nault signaled that he had made his decision. As Storekeeper 1st Class Raymond Paguia, the emcee of the championship event, prepared to announce Nault's decision, the deck quieted in anticipation. "The winner of Howard's first Boot-Off is…STGSN Harding," Paguia announced. The loud cheer that spread throughout the ship clearly indicated that Sonar Technician (Surface) Seaman Robert Harding was the crowd's favorite. Some crew members attempted to lift Harding on their shoulders in celebration; however, Howard's first Boot-Off champ declined, claiming, "I don't want to mess up my boots." http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38980 Ronald Reagan Strike Group Arrives in Kuala Lumpur By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Bill Larned, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs Posted: August 18, 2008 PORT KELANG, Malaysia — Three ships and more than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 arrived in Malaysia for a routine port visit Aug. 18. http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2008/08/09.htm USS Ronald Reagan Strike Group Arrives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Story Number: NNS080818-06 Release Date: 8/18/2008 3:30:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Bill Larned, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs PORT KELANG, Malaysia (NNS) -- Three ships and more than 5,500 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 arrived in Malaysia for a port visit Aug. 18. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39170 Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Departs Malaysia Story Number: NNS080821-12 Release Date: 8/21/2008 4:20:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) 1st Class Bill Larned Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Three ships and more than 5,000 Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 departed Malaysia Aug. 21 after routine port visits highlighted by displays of good will, community service and a variety of cultural tours.. Homeported in San Diego, Ronald Reagan is the Navy's newest Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39250 Reagan Launches First Sorties in Support of OEF Story Number: NNS080829-08 Release Date: 8/29/2008 3:51:00 PM By Lt. Ron Flanders, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group assumed the duties as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 Aug. 28 and launched its first sorties into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39416 Reagan Launches First Sorties in Support of OEF By Lieutenant Ron Flanders USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group assumed the duties as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 Aug. 28 and launched its first sorties into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39416 USS Ronald Reagan Welcomes 42 New Chief Petty Officers Story Number: NNS080916-15 Release Date: 9/16/2008 3:27:00 PM From USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Forty-two Sailors from USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 and Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 7 entered the ranks of the chief petty officer (CPO) during a CPO pinning ceremony on the aircraft carrier's flight deck Sept. 16. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39762 USS Ronald Reagan Sailors Welcome Scott Stapp "With Arms Wide Open" Story Number: NNS080926-03 Release Date: 9/26/2008 6:38:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Courtney Dock USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Rock singer Scott Stapp visited and performed a concert for USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Sailors Sept. 24, while the ship remained on station in the Gulf of Oman providing support for Operation Enduring Freedom. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39982 Multitude of Reagan Sailors Re-enlist, Earn Multiple Benefits on Navy Birthday Story Number: NNS081014-09 Release Date: 10/14/2008 11:21:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Aaron Holt, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN (NNS) -- More than 70 Sailors assigned to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and Carrier Air Wcng (CVW) 14 gathered on the flight deck of the Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier Oct. 13 to reaffirm their oath of enlistment during a mass re-enlistment ceremony. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40308 Carrier Strike Group 7 Changes Command Story Number: NNS081029-02 Release Date: 10/29/2008 5:43:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brandie Wills, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Commander Carrier Strike Group 7 (CCSG 7) held a change of command ceremony aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)Oct. 27, while on deployment in the 7th Fleet Area of Operations. Rear Adm. Scott Hebner took command of CCSG 7 from Rear Adm. James P. Wisecup, who will take command as the president of the Naval War College in Newport, R.I. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40561 USS Chancellorsville Engages in Maritime Exchange with Thai Navy Story Number: NNS081105-19 Release Date: 11/5/2008 10:17:00 AM By Ensign George Kunthara, USS Chancellorsville Public Affairs ABOARD USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (NNS) -- Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 ships USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and USS Decatur (DDG 73) participated in a bilateral exercise with a Royal Thai Navy ship off the coast of Phuket, Thailand Nov. 1. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40711 Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Concludes Operations in 7th Fleet AOR Story Number: NNS081116-02 Release Date: 11/16/2008 8:04:00 AM By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bill Larned, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs ABOARD USS RONALD REAGAN (NNS) -- The six ships of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group concluded military operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR) Nov. 14. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40924   CVN-76 CO - Captain Kenneth J. Norton, former Captain Terry Kraft CCSG 7 - Commander Rear Adm. Scott Hebner, former Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup, former Rear Adm. Charles W. Martoglio CDS 7 - Commodore Captain William J. Nault, USN Captain Michael M. Gilday CVW-14 CO - Captain Richard W. Butler, former Captain Craig B. Williams Squadrons – VFA-22; VFA-25; VFA-113; VFA-115; VAQ-139; VAW-113; HS-4; VRC-30 USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) – 64th - Present –Up Dated 10 July 2008 http://www.reagan.navy.mil/index.htm   Commanding Officer Captain Kenneth J. Norton, former Captain Terry Kraft http://www.reagan.navy.mil/co.html Executive Officer Captain Kevin J. “Bud” Couch, former William J. Hart http://www.reagan.navy.mil/xo.html Command Master Chief CMDCM (AW/SW) James E. DeLozier http://www.reagan.navy.mil/cmc.html Commander, Carrier Strike Group 7 (CCSG 7) COMCARSTRKGRU SEVEN http://www.ccsg7.navy.mil Commander Rear Adm. Scott Hebner, former Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup, former Rear Adm. Charles W. Martoglio, former Rear Adm. Michael H. Miller http://www.ccsg7.navy.mil/leadership.html http://www.ccsg7.navy.mil/radm.html Chief of Staff Captain Timothy M. Conroy, former Captain Brian J. McCormack           http://www.ccsg7.navy.mil/chief_of_staff.html                                                                                         Command Master Chief YNCM(SW/AW/FMF) Diego Perey, Jr http://www.ccsg7.navy.mil/cmc.html COMDESRON SEVEN (CDS 7) Commander Destroyer Squadron Seven DESRON SEVEN "The Golden Arrows" http://www.cds7.navy.mil/default.aspx History http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/History.aspx Commodore Captain William J. Nault, USN Captain Michael M. Gilday http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/COMMODORE.aspx Chief of Staff Commander Dean A. Commander Jacobs, former Carl A. Burkins http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/CHIEF%20STAFF%20OFFICER.aspx DESRON SEVEN SHIPS COMDESRON SEVEN (CDS 7) Commander Destroyer Squadron Seven DESRON SEVEN "The Golden Arrows" http://www.cds7.navy.mil/default.aspx History http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/History.aspx Commodore Captain William J. Nault, USN Captain Michael M. Gilday http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/COMMODORE.aspx Chief of Staff Commander Dean A. Commander Jacobs, former Carl A. Burkins http://www.cds7.navy.mil/Site%20Pages/CHIEF%20STAFF%20OFFICER.aspx DESRON SEVEN SHIPS http://www.cds7.navy.mil USS Halsey (DDG-97) http://www.halsey.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Halsey (DDG-97) History http://navysite.de/cg/cg23.htm USS Halsey (DDG-97) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01097.htm USS HALSEY was the eighth ship in the LEAHY-class of guided missile cruisers and the first ship in the Navy named after Fleet Admiral Halsey. The commissioning ceremony of USS HALSEY even included a eulogy by Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, USN, on Fleet Admiral Halsey's illustrious career. Commissioned as a guided missile frigate and later reclassified a guided missile cruiser on June 30, 1975, HALSEY was decommissioned and stricken from the Navy Register on January 28, 1994 at San Diego. Transferred March 7 the same year to the Maritime Administration, she was laid up at the Suisun Bay, CA. reserve to await final disposal. HALSEY was sold to International Shipbreaking Corp., Brownsville, Tx., for scrapping. USS Benfold (DDG-65) http://www.benfold.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Benfold (DDG-65) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg65.htm USS Benfold (DDG-65) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01065.htm USS BENFOLD is the 15th ship in the ARLEIGH BURKE - class of Guided Missile Destroyers. USS Gridley (DDG101) “IGNIS UBI PARATUS” http://www.gridley.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Gridley (DDG101) History http://www.navysite.de/dd/ddg101.htm USS Gridley (DDG101) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01101.htm USS GRIDLEY is the 51st ship in the ARLEIGH BURKE - class of Aegis guided missile destroyers and the fourth ship in the Navy to bear the name. USS Decatur (DDG 73) "IN PURSUIT OF PEACE" http://www.decatur.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Decatur (DDG 73) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg73.htm USS Decatur (DDG 73) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01073.htm USS DECATUR is the 23rd destroyer in the ARLEIGH BURKE class and the 13th ship in that class built by Bath Iron Works. USS Howard (DDG 83) "READY FOR VICTORY" http://www.howard.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS Howard (DDG 83) http://www.navy.mil/local/howard USS Howard (DDG 83) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg83.htm USS Howard (DDG 83) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01083.htm USS HOWARD is the fifth OSCAR AUSTIN class guided missile destroyer and the third ship in that class built by Bath Iron Works in Maine. USS Thach (FFG 43) “Ready and Able” http://www.thach.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Thach (FFG 43) History http://navysite.de/ffg/FFG43.HTM USS Thach (FFG 43) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/07/0743.htm USS THACH is the 34th OLIVER HAZARD PERRY class guided missile frigate and the first ship in the Navy to bear the name. OTHER TASK FORCE SHIPS USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) “PRESS ON” http://www.chancellorsville.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) History http://navysite.de/cg/cg62.html USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/04/1162/040162.htm USS CHANCELLORSVILLE is the 16th guided missile cruiser in the TICONDEROGA class and the 12th ship in that class built by Ingalls. USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7) “Legend of Service” http://navysite.de/ships/aoe7.htm http://www.navsource.org/archives/09/59/5907.htm USNS RAINIER is one of the biggest supply ships in the world and the second AOE in the SUPPLY - class. RAINIER was decommissioned on August 29, 2003, and was transferred to the Military Sealift Command where she was placed back in service as a "United States Naval Ship." As a US Naval Ship, RAINIER does no longer carry the weapons systems she previously (as "USS RAINIER") was equipped with. One of these systems was the Phalanx CIWS. SSN70 Tucson http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/ssn-770.htm FORMER SHIPS USS Milius (DDG-69) "Alii Prae Me" http://www.milius.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Milius (DDG-69) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg69.htm USS Milius (DDG-69) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01069.htm USS MILIUS is the 19th ship in the ARLEIGH BURKE - class of Guided Missile Destroyers. The ship is named for the late Captain Paul Milius, an OP-2E reconnaissance pilot who was shot down during the Vietnam War. USS MILIUS is taking part in an Optimal Manning Project that reduces the numer of billets authorized from 289 to 231. Aboard MILIUS, the installation of a new self-service mess line has allowed the ship to reduce the number of food service attendants (FSA) on the ship. Greater use of video cameras for remote monitoring will reduce the need aboard MILIUS for 24-hour manning of certain watches and distance support software will give Sailors an increased capability to access technicians ashore. Aboard MILIUS, some procedural changes have also helped the ship to reduce billets. The boatswain's mate of the watch, quartermaster of the watch and signalman of the watch have been consolidated into a new position called the bridge specialist. Electronics technicians and information systems technicians are learning each other's jobs and the ship is adopting a more flexible, rapid-response approach to damage control, using one robust repair locker instead of three to fight a main-space fire. USS McCampbell (DDG-85) “Relentless in Battle” http://www.mccampbell.navy.mil/default.aspx Focus on USS McCampbell (DDG 85) http://www.news.navy.mil/local/ddg85 USS McCampbell (DDG 85) Story Archive http://www.news.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=109 USS McCampbell (DDG-85) History http://navysite.de/dd/ddg85.htm USS McCampbell (DDG-85) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/05/01085.htm Sponsored by the former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, USS McCAMPBELL is the seventh Flight IIA ARLEIGH BURKE-class guided missile destroyer and the first ship in the Navy named after Captain David McCampbell. In June 2007, the McCAMPBELL shifted her homeport from San Diego, Calif., to Yokosuka, Japan, where she relieved the USS GARY (FFG 51). USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) “Ingenuity – Daring – Discipline” http://www.lake-champlain.navy.mil/default.aspx USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) History http://www.navysite.de/cg/cg57.html USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) Photos http://www.navsource.org/archives/04/1157/040157.htm USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN is the eleventh TICONDEROGA class Guided Missile Cruiser and the tenth ship of that class built by Ingalls. LAKE CHAMPLAIN is the third ship in the Navy to bear the name. COMCARAIRWING FOURTEEN (CVW-14) http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/cvw-14 Commanding Officer Captain Richard W. Butler, former Captain Craig B. Williams http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/cvw-14/cag.htm Deputy Commander Captain Thomas P. Lalor , former Richard W. Butler http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/cvw-14/dcag.htm Command Master Chief CMDCM Master Chief White, formerMaster Chief Odie "J" Cook http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/cvw-14/cmc.htm STRKFITRON 22 (VFA-22) "Fighting Redcocks" F/A-18F Super Hornet Strike Fighter Squadron TWO TWO http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/vfa-22 STRKFITRON 115 (VFA-115) "Eagles" Strike Fighter Squadron ONE ONE FIVE http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/vfa-115 STRKFITRON 113 (VFA-113) " Stingers " F/A-18E Super Hornet Strike Fighter Squadron ONE ONE THREE http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/vfa-113 STRKFITRON (VFA-25) "Fist of the Fleet" F/A-18C Hornet Strike Fighter Squadron TWO FIVE http://www.csfwp.navy.mil/vfa-25 VAQRON 139 (VAQ-139) "Cougars " EA-6B Prowler Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron ONE THREE NINE http://vaq-139.ahf.nmci.navy.mil CARAEWRON 113 (VAW-113) "Black Eagles" E-2C Hawkeye Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron ONE ONE THREE http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw113 HELANTISUBRON 4 (HS-4) "Black Knights" SH-6OF SeaHawk HH-6OH NightHawk http://www.hs4.navy.mil FLELOGSUPPRON 30 DET (VRC-30 DET) "The Providers" C-2A Greyhound (COD) Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THREE ZERO DET http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30 As of July 10 2008: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) with CVW-14 and Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup, Commander, Carrier Strike Group Seven embarked departed San Diego, Calif. on 19 May 2008 as hundreds of friends and family members gathered pierside, waving banners and shouting farewells, with Capt. Kenneth Norton, who assumed command May 2, on her third “Westpac” in support of national and theater cooperative security commitments in the western Pacific, operating with the 3rd and 7th Fleet with the Commander, 7th Fleet. Her 4th deployment since her commission. CSG 7 includes the flagship, Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14; and the ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7; the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Howard (DDG 83) and USS Gridley (DDG 101) and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43). As of 20 April 2007: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) with CVW-14 arrived San Diego, California 20 April 2007, departing 5 January 2007, on her second “Westpac” deployment under the Navy's Fleet Response Plan (FRP) and will operate in the western Pacific in support of U.S. commitments in the region in Exercise Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration/Foal Eagle (RSOI/FE). FRP provides the U.S. with the ability to respond to any global commitment with flexible and sustainable forces and the ability to rapidly respond to a range of situations on short notice. Her 3rd deployment since her commission. The more than 5,000 Sailors assigned to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, Destroyer Squadron 7, Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit 11, Det. 15, and Carrier Air Wing 14 that comprise the Reagan (CSG) deployed Jan. 27 under the Navy’s Fleet Response Plan, which provides the United States with the ability to respond to any global commitment with flexible and sustainable forces, and the ability to rapidly respond to a range of situations on short notice. USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) with CVW-14 and Rear Adm. Michael H. Miller, Commander, Carrier Strike Group Seven embarked arrived San Diego, California 6 July 2006, ending her maiden voyage; conducting naval operations in support of the global war on terrorism, as well as national and theater cooperative security commitments in the Western Pacific, her first “Westpac” in support of national and theater cooperative security commitments in the western Pacific and Guam operating area where she participated in Exercise "Valiant Shield 2006" upon conclusion of naval operations in support of the global war on terrorism; making her presence in the Indian Ocean known for the first time on several voyages, her 1st Operation Iraqi Freedom, 1st Operation Enduring Freedom, 1st Maritime Security Operations (MSO) deployment and Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the French navy, her first Arabian Sea/Gulf (Persian Gulf) deployment ended on the US Navy’s 83rd Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet., reactivated with operational control of the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain in July 1995, while U.S. Naval Forces Central Command operational control extends to the Indian Ocean following the war with Iraq (Operation Desert Storm), with the Commander, 7th Fleet, serving as naval component commander for Central Command, at the beginning of Operation Southern Watch. Her second deployment ended (4 January to 6 July 2006) since her commission on 12 July 2003. The Ronald Reagan Strike Group is comprised of CVW-14 and DESRON 7, consisting of the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), the guided-missile destroyers USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS Decatur (DDG 73), the fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7), the fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770), and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 11, Det. 15 The squadrons of CVW-14 include the “Redcocks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, the “Fist of the Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Stingers” of VFA-113, the “Eagles” of VFA-115, the “Black Eagles” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, the “Cougars” of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, the “Providers” of Carrier Logistics Support (VRC) 30, and the “Black Knights” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4. As part of CVW-14, VAQ-139 was also the first EA-6B “Prowler” squadron to deploy with the Improved Capability Three (ICAP III) system. In addition, VFA-25, VFA-113, VFA-22 and VFA-115 were the first F/A-18 Hornet squadrons to deploy with ROVER (Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver), a capability to communicate and transfer video to the JTAC (Joint Terminal Air Controller) on the ground. Sailors assigned to Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, including Ronald Reagan Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7 visited Jebel Ali, United Arab . As of 18 April 2005: On 23 July 2004, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) with CVW-11 embarked arrived at her new homeport in San Diego, California, operating with the Pacific Fleet, ending her Western & Southern Atlantic and Southern & Eastern Pacific deployment around the Cape Horn operating with the United States Atlantic Command (Atlantic Fleet) under the direction of the 2nd Fleet and Summer Pulse 04 and Homeport change. Underway in the Western Atlantic from 27 May to 3 June 2004 and the Southern Atlantic from 4 to 8 June 2004, Captain James Symonds presented the flag that draped the former President Reagan’s casket, which was also the one that flew over Capitol Hill on January 20, 1981, when the president was inaugurated, to Mrs. Reagan, as well as the flag that flew over the Ronald Reagan when the former president died on 5 June 2004, eleven months after the commissioning of Ronald Reagan. Underway in the Southern Atlantic from 4 to 8 June 2004, Ronald Reagan made a port call at Rio De Janeiro from 9 to 12 June 2004, prior to operating in the Southern Atlantic from 14 to 21 June 2004 and the Southern Pacific from 22 to 23 June 2004, making a port call at Valparaiso, Chile from 25 to 29 June 2004. Underway in the Pacific Ocean from 30 June to 8 July 2004, Ronald Reagan made a port call at Callao, Peru from 9 to 12 July 2004, prior to operating in the Pacific Ocean from 13 to 22 July 2004, transiting the Straits of Magellan on Sunday and Monday (Days 25 and 26) beginning at 0500 local  (same as EST) on Sunday - we think the first nuclear aircraft carrier to do so; her first deployment since her commission. “On 2 June 2004, the Navy announced the simultaneous deployment of seven carrier strike groups (CSGs) to demonstrate the Navy’s ability to provide credible combat power across the globe by operating in five theaters with other U.S., allied and coalition military forces. Dubbed Summer Pulse’04, this exercise was the first of the Navy’s new Fleet Response Plan (FRP) slated to result in increased force readiness and the ability to provide combat power in response to a crisis. Along with USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), the other carriers involved were USS George Washington (CVN-73), USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), USS Enterprise (CVN-65), and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)” (Ref. 549). USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), San Diego, Calif. Official U. S. Navy Web Site – 373 http://www.reagan.navy.mil USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) News http://www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn76 USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Story Archive http://www.news.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=6 USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Story Archive – 374 www.news.navy.mil/media/allhands/acrobat/ah200202.pdf   USS Nimitz (CVN 68), USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) http://www.cnaf.navy.mil USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Photo Gallery http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/76.htm Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Story Archive http://www.news.navy.mil/local/story_archive.asp?id=117 Current Aircraft Carrier Location - http://www.gonavy.jp/CVLocation.html _________________ U. S. Navy Veteran  August 1977 to July 1983 Yoeman Second Class, with student pilot's license
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