EQNEED - View topic - U. S. Aircraft Carrier Status 5 June 2008 to October 11 2008 - U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER DEPLOYMENT HISTORY DATA BASE - Forum posting restricted. - Free Message Board Hosting by FreePowerBoards.com

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) with CVW-3 embarked arrived Norfolk, Virginia, with Captain Herman A. Shelanski in command, on 4 June 2008, with CCSG10 commanded by Rear Adm. Mark Fox who relieved Rear Admiral William E. Gortney during a change-of-command ceremony held at sea in the Arabian Gulf April 19, 2008, ending her fifth Mediterranean Sea deployment (8th & 9th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet, her third Arabian Sea/Gulf (Persian Gulf) deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (8th USN MSO) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (20th USN OIF) on the U. S. Navy’s 87th Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating with the 5th Fleet and Central Command while no mention of Operation Enduring Freedom operations were conducted, during which time Carrier Airwing Three (CVW 3) executed 13,869 flight hours, which made up 2,459 combat sorties. CVW-3 successfully expended 77,536 pounds of live ordnance, Capt. Pawlowski said. “We also did 97 shows of force and 21 shows of presence. Those things didn’t result in kinetic effects, but they resulted in saving countless lives,” Capt. Pawlowski added. “I couldn’t be more proud of the crew, the Truman and Carrier Airwing Three Team, working together to accomplish a great seven-month cruise,” said Capt. Herm Shelanski, Truman’s Commanding Officer. “We have had some great success here.” Commander Carrier Airwing Three Capt. Rick Pawlowski echoed Capt. Shelanski’s sentiments and agreed that this cruise was especially productive and successful. “It has been an extreme pleasure to work with this ship the last 20 months,” Capt. Pawlowski said. “The entire ship’s team is supreme professionalism everywhere you look.” MSO and OIF missions were under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet., 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. Underway in the Atlantic from 5 to 15 November 2007; Truman transited through the straits of Gibraltar 16 November 2007; underway in the Mediterranean from 16 to 19 November 2007; Truman visited Naples, Italy from 20 to 25 November 2007; underway in the Mediterranean from 26 to 29 November 2007; Truman entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations on 30 November 2007, transiting the Suez Canal, making her 5th Suez Canal transit and the U. S. Navy’s 127th Suez Canal carrier transit; underway in the Red Sea from 30 November to 1 December 2007; underway in the Arabian Sea from 2 to 11 December 2007, relieving USS Enterprise (CVN-65); underway in the Persian Gulf on 14 to 24 December 2007; Truman visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 25 to 28 December 2007; underway in the Persian Gulf from 29 December 2007 to 24 January 2008, during which time the commander of Carrier Airwing 3 logged his 6,000th hour of flight Jan. 14 after a successful 3-wire trap aboard Truman in an E2-C Hawkeye assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126, the "Seahawks". Capt. Rick Pawlowski has spent 360,000 minutes, 250 days, 6,000 hours flying through the air in E2-C Hawkeyes, A-6 Intruders, Helicopters, F/A 18 Super Hornets and a conglomerate of other aircraft. Truman visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 25 to 28 January 2008, during which time Jimmy Buffett visited the crew aboard the ship and performed a concert, Jan. 28. Truman underway in the Persian Gulf from 29 January to 16 February 2008, during which time more than 400 football fans aboard Harry S. Truman, including the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders and two professional football players attended the ship's Super Bowl XLII party and watched the game, Feb. 4. Truman volunteered their liberty to three community relations projects during a four-day port visit to a Middle Eastern port Feb. 17-21. Underway in the Persian Gulf on 22 February to 12 March 2008, Sailors on board Truman conducted a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with the fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE8) and had the unique opportunity to hone their golf skills on the flight deck March 1. “GO Navy” reports Truman visited Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates from 13 to 16 March 2008 during which time the ship must have picked up an owl? Truman underway in the Persian Gulf (5th Fleet Theater of Operation) from 17 March to 30 April 2008, during which time the crew welcomed aboard comedian "Rip" Michaels April 12, for a tour and to perform his act for the 'Comics on Duty Tour,' and Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead visited the crew of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman April 15 to address Sailors deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO). U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)/U.S. 5th Fleet/Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) demonstrated its commitment to building partnerships and enhancing regional cooperation though operations, exercises and regional engagements during the month of April. During several weeks in April, and at the invitation of the Iraqi and Kuwaiti Governments, the Royal Navy and U.S. Navy worked together with the Kuwaiti and Iraq navies conducting Mine Countermeasures surveys and cleared Mine Danger Areas (MDAs) of the Northern Arabian Gulf to ensure sea lanes are clear for mariners operating in the northern Gulf. Canadian Army Sgt. Colin Whyatt from HMCS Charlottetown (FFG 339) received his enlisted air warfare specialist (EAWS) qualification pin April 27, making him the first dual-qualified Canadian aboard. Truman underway in the Arabian Sea (5th Fleet Theater of Operation) from 1 to 3 May 2008, during which time the crew held its first steel beach picnic of the deployment May 1, after spending more than 45 consecutive days at sea. Sailors were invited to enjoy a much needed break from the rigors of deployment in one fun-filled afternoon. The First Class Petty Officers Association cooked for all of Truman's Sailors by grilling hotdogs, ribs and chicken. Truman underway in the Red Sea (5th Fleet Theater of Operation) from 4 to 5 May 2008; transiting the Suez Canal on her 6th Suez Canal transit and the U. S. Navy’s 128th carrier Suez Canal transit; entering the Mediterranean Sea on 6 May 2008; arriving in Rhodes, Greece on May 7, for a goodwill port visit from May 7 to 10 May 2008. Underway in the Mediterranean Sea operating with the 6th Fleet from May 11 to 16 May 2008, during which time Sailors from Truman and the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) worked together to complete a successful replenishment at sea (RAS) on May 12. Truman visited, Marseille, France 16 to 21 May 2008 for a goodwill port visit, during which time Sailors participated in a community relations (COMREL) project in Marseille, with the Little Sister's of the Poor Nursing Home for the Elderly to show their appreciation for the hospitality of the Marseille citizens, May 21 and while in port or departing in the afternoon of the 21st, cooperated with the French Navy May 21, as French pilots landed on the flight deck to work on their carrier qualifications. Underway in the Mediterranean Sea operating with the 2nd Fleet from the 21st in the afternoon or on 22 May 2008. Truman transited the Strait of Gibraltar and entered the Atlantic operating with the 2nd Fleet on 23 May 2008; underway in the Atlantic operating with the 2nd Fleet from 23 to 31 May 2008; pulling into Mayport to off-load a small portion of CVW-3 and pick tiger cruise riders up on 1 June 2008. Underway in the Western Atlantic operating with the 2nd Fleet from 2 to 3 June 2008. Her sixth deployment ended (5 November 2007 to 4 June 2008) since her commission and approximately the U. S. Navy’s 787th FWFD.

HSTCSG - Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is made up CCSG-10, Harry S. Truman, Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3), Destroyer Squadron 26 staff, guided missile cruisers USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Hue City (CG 66); guided missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81); USS Montpelier (SSN 765); the Canadian frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFG 339); and the British destroyer HMS Manchester (D 95). Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) consists of Strike Fighter Squadrons VFA-11, VFA-32, VFA-37 and VFA-105; Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron VAQ-130; Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron VAW-126; and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron HS-7.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) conducting tailored ship's training availability (TSTA) off the coast of southern California from 26 May to 5 June 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) crossed 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.

Wearing vintage 1942 Navy uniforms, Thach Sailors remembered one of the pivotal battles of the war in the Pacific, when U.S. forces sank four Japanese carriers at the cost of only two U.S. ships, the carrier USS Yorktown (CV 5) and the destroyer USS Hammann (DD 412).

Thach is operating Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. Sailing with Thach are the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); 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).

Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, covering 52 million square miles, with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines at any given time. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37699

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, a new component to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, is the first squadron of its kind to embark a carrier as part of an air wing when the squadron flew aboard John C. Stennis.

Their mission is to employ the Navy's most technologically sophisticated rotary aircraft in the fleet to carry out the objectives of strike group commanders, their weapon is the MH-60R Seahawk. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37665

USS Enterprise's (CVN 65) commanding officer announced to the crew June 6, that for the first time in the ship's 46-year history, Big E earned the prestigious Battenberg Cup in recognition of the crew's achievements in operational excellence.

The Battenberg Cup Award for the Atlantic Fleet Battle Efficiency Award winner goes to the ship or submarine selected as the "best all-around" for the Atlantic Fleet based on the greatest accumulation of crew achievements. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37955

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, embarked aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), performed live missile shoots June 4 and 6. The squadron fired a total of 12 missiles to give pilots experience and confidence with launching live ordnance.

"It's an invaluable training experience, especially for someone like me who's newer in the squadron, to get a feel for how that weapon is actually employed," said Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 Pilot Lt. j.g. Micah Porter. "I got to see firsthand how it comes off the rail, how long it takes to squeeze the trigger, how that missile operates with the radar and how that all works together."

The air wing's four F-18 squadrons, the "Argonauts" of VFA-147, the "Black Knights" of VFA-154, the "Blue Diamonds" of VFA-146 and the "Death Rattlers" of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 323 each participated in missile shoot exercises.

The missiles used in the missile shoot exercise were the air-to-air "Sparrow" Air Intercept Missile (AIM-7) and the "Sidewinder" (AIM-9). The "Sidewinder" uses infrared seekers to track heat sources put out by enemy engines, while the "Sparrow" is a radar-guided missile.

The pilots use flares, deployed during the mission, as targets during their live-fire exercises. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37667

Former astronaut and U.S. Sen. John Glenn visited USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) on June 6. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37701

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) departed Norfolk, Va. for Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRSCQ) off the coast of Virginia on 6 June 2008.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 began their final phase of Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA), TSTA III, June 8. The Stennis-Shogun team sailed through TSTA I and II and now their sights are set for TSTA III and the Final Evaluation Problem (FEP), commencing tailored ship's training availability (TSTA) off the coast of southern California from on 26 May to 7 June 2008.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37758

The crew of Stennis launched their 50,000th aircraft off catapult, June 8.

"Reaching this milestone represents all of the hard work we put in manning up and maintaining these catapults," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate Equipment 1st Class Richard Dawson, bow catapult leading petty officer.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37795

USS Kitty Hawk (CV-67) underway in the Western Pacific from 28 May to 9 June 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV-67) visited Apra Harbor, Guam from 10 to 13 June 2008.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) conducting Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRSCQ) off the coast of Virginia from 6 to 13 June 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV-67) underway in the Philippine Sea on 13 June 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) underway in the Philippine Sea on 13 June 2008.

Four fallen shipmates were committed to the sea June 13, off the coast of San Diego during the first Jewish burial at sea service in the history of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37859

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) received an outstanding score on its Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) June 16 when the crew demonstrated it could defend the ship and take care of combat casualties in multiple, complex scenarios.

During FEP, a two-day, graded event, trainers test ships' abilities to conduct combat missions, survive complex casualties and sustain support functions.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37959

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) underway in the South China Sea on 17 June 2008.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 conducted their final phase of Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA), TSTA III from 8 to 18 June 2008 off the coast of southern California; receiving an outstanding score on its Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) June 16 when the crew demonstrated it could defend the ship and take care of combat casualties in multiple, complex scenarios.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) underway on “WestPac” from 5 to 18 June 2008 and the Philippine Sea on 13 and the South China Sea on 17 June 2008.

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.

The port is the first stop for the strike group in its 2008 Western Pacific deployment.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37950

As the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier inches closer to its return to operational status, some Sailor-parents aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) are developing family care plans allowing them to be worldwide-deployable while caring for the needs of their families.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37908

Sailors assigned to the Carl Vinson’s Combat Systems Department are working around-the-clock this June to ensure the aircraft carrier's "J-Dial" telephone system is back on line in time for the Crew Move Aboard (CMA) evolution scheduled for later this summer. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37887

The crew of Carl Vinson surpassed another milestone at Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard June 3, when the project team began testing the ship's refurbished catapults for the first time in more than three years. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37789

Sailors assigned to the Damage Control Training Team (DCTT) aboard Carl Vinson are stepped up the intensity of shipboard drills during the month of June as the aircraft carrier prepares for its crew move aboard evolution later this summer. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37888

Members of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) serving in Bahrain visited USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) June 19 while conducting operations in the Arabian Gulf.

Coalition liaison officers -- 16 in all -- from various countries including Italy, New Zealand and Pakistan came aboard Lincoln to gain insight into the ship's capabilities and experience life aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37978

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.

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).

While in port, Sailors enjoyed sightseeing, shopping and tours of Hong Kong provided by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR). Additionally, more than 300 Sailors participated in 15 community relations (COMREL) projects in the local community. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37985

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 conducted Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRSCQ) off the coast of Southern California from 19 to 24 June 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway on “WestPac” from 22 to 24 June 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) approaches the midway point of its scheduled seven-month deployment on 24 June 2008, the services of the aircraft carrier's search and rescue swimmers have not been required; however, the training for their vital mission continues.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37899

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) underway in the Persian Gulf (5th Fleet Theater of Operation) from 27 May to 27 June 2008.

A USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) 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. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38119

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway on “WestPac” from 13 to 28 June 2008, and the Philippine Sea on 13 June 2008.

The U.S. ambassador to the Philippines visited the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) on June 29 2008.

Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney joined by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Alexander Yano, came aboard 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.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38135

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 conducted Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRSCQ) off the coast of Southern California from 19 to 29 June 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway on “WestPac” from 14 to 29 June 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway on RIMPAC2008 in the Hawaiian Operating Area from 29 June to 31 July 2008

The crew of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) returned home June 30 ahead of schedule, after completing their objectives during a two-month underway period. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38192

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) 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 30 June 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) pulled into Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on 1 July 2008.

Three of Lincoln’s squadrons passed control on to new officers in three separate ceremonies. Cmdr. Terence A. Hoeft took the helm as Commanding Officer of Helicopter Anti- submarine Squadron (HS) 2, replacing Cmdr. Edward J. Iocco during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) on 1 and 2 July 2008.
http://www.cvn72.navy.mil

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) departed the Sulu Sea and the waters around the Philippine island of Panay, July 3, 2008 after assisting the Philippine government's humanitarian relief operation. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38237

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway on “WestPac” from 4 to 5 July 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Persian Gulf (5th Fleet Theater of Operation) from 27 May to 7 July 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) visited Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 1 to 7 July 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Gulf of Oman on 8 July 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) departed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on 8 July 2008 to participate in the RIMPAC 2008 exercise.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) pulled into Agana Harbor off the coast of Guam and visited from 6 to 9 July 2008.

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) departed Norfolk, Va. 11 July 2008 with 19 midshipmen from the Naval Academy and Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs who have been serving aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as part of their required, month-long summer cruise.

Sailors aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) paid their final respects to a fallen service member by committing his body to the deep in a somber and traditional ceremony known as a burial at sea July 12.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38422

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) 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.

The strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW 14), and the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) docked in Busan, while the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73) and USS Howard (DDG 83) moored in the port city of Chinhae.

This marks the third port visit for CSG-7 during its 2008 Western Pacific deployment and the second visit to Busan by Ronald Reagan. The carrier last visited in March 2007.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38459

For the past few weeks, 19 midshipmen from the Naval Academy and Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs have been serving aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as part of their required, month-long summer cruise.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38479

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) completed a towed drone unit (TDU) shoot required for carrier qualifications July 14 2008.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38481

USS Harry S. Truman's (CVN 75) Weapons Department, G-2 division conducted a gun shoot on aircraft elevator four July 16 2008.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38526

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) visited Busan, Republic of Korea from 14 to 17 July 2008.

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

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway in the East China Sea on 18 July 2008.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) departed Naval Station Norfolk July 18 for a historic collaboration between the U.S. and French navies and will conduct Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 08 "Operation Brimstone" in North Carolina and off the eastern U.S. coast from Virginia to Florida from 21 to 31 July 2008.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38577

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) (TR) is conducting carrier qualifications with members of the French Navy during Operation Brimstone July 21-31.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38585

Pilots from the "Tomcatters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31 and French navy pilots are learning the value of camaraderie and the true meaning of the term 'shipmate.'

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) departed Norfolk Naval Shipyard on 21 July 2008 for sea trials in the Western Atlantic.

USS Harry S. Truman's (CVN 75) underway in the Atlantic from 11 to 22 July 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted sea trials in the Western Atlantic from 21 to 23 July 2008, returning to homeport of Norfolk, Va. 23 July 2008, completing a six-month planned incremental availability (PIA).

Sailors performed as the band "Death by Chicken," during USS Abraham Lincoln's (CVN 72) steel beach picnic July 26.

The five Sailors who make up the mixed-genre band aim to relieve stress, have fun and further their musical skills while deployed to the North Arabian Sea supporting Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38601

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway on “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.

The strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), embarked Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW), and the guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) pulled into Sasebo, 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.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38756

Adm. Robert Willard, the Navy’s Pacific Fleet commander, visited USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the ship was nearing the end of the Rim of the Pacific exercise July 28.

This was a return trip to Kitty Hawk for Willard who served on board as the embarked Carrier Strike Group 5 commander from 2000 to 2001. http://www.kittyhawk.navy.mil/news/Story%20Pages/Story7.htm

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) visited Sasebo, Japan from 28 to 31 July 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) departed Norfolk, Va. on 29 July 2008 for carrier qualifications in the Western Atlantic.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway on RIMPAC2008 in the Hawaiian Operating Area from 9 July to 29 July 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) wrapped up the operational phase of the biggest naval exercise in the world, Rim of the Pacific, before pulling in to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, July 29.

RIMPAC will be the 47-year-old Kitty Hawk’s last exercise before returning to the United States for decommissioning early next year.

More than a dozen nations participated in the 21st biennial RIMPAC, which included units from: Australia; Canada; Chile; Japan; the Netherlands; Peru; South Korea; Singapore; and the United Kingdom. The exercise involved 35 ships, six submarines, more than 150 aircraft and more than 20,000 Sailors, airmen, Marines, soldiers and Coast Guardsmen.

Colombia, Mexico and Russia sent representatives to observe.

“There is nothing like RIMPAC for demonstrating how much our Pacific navies have in common,” said Canadian Navy Commodore Nigel Greenwood, Canada’s Pacific Fleet commander and sea combat commander for RIMPAC.

All the navies involved have proven their commitment to international cooperation, Greenwood said.

RIMPAC is more than just an opportunity for navies to assess and build their war fighting capabilities, however.

“The purpose of RIMPAC is to teach multiple high-end navies to work together,” said Rear Adm. Rick Wren, Kitty Hawk’s Carrier Strike Group commander and Task Force 170 commander for RIMPAC.

With so many different navies, communication and technical differences played a major challenge.

“You can see by the length of RIMPAC … that it is in fact a long process to learn to work together … to work through some of those communication challenges,” Wren said.

Navies also learn to cooperatively respond to whatever security or humanitarian assistance crisis arise in the Pacific, Greenwood said.

As part of Task Force 170, Kitty Hawk served as a command platform during the exercise, with Greenwood and Wren on board.

The task force, which consisted of Kitty Hawk, Carrier Air Wing 5 and 15 ships from seven different countries, conducted hundreds of training missions including air strike and anti-submarine warfare exercises, said Cmdr. Jeff Debolt, Task Force 70’s RIMPAC planner.

Some portions of the task force role-played hostile forces while the majority served as friendly forces to enforce simulated United Nations Security Council resolution sanctions against a hostile nation, Debolt said.

The daily routine for most of Kitty Hawk’s 5,000 Sailors didn’t change much for RIMPAC, except for the presence of 20 to 30 foreign military members who embarked as liaison officers for the exercise.

“It was our great honor to be present and share this experience with Kitty Hawk’s crew, who have all made us feel so welcome,” Greenwood said.
http://www.kittyhawk.navy.mil/news/Story%20Pages/Story9.htm

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) visited Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 30 to 31 July 2008.

PEARL HARBOR -- USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) was scheduled to replace USS George Washington (CVN 73) in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008 Exercise scheduled to take place in the Hawaiian operating area from June 29 through July 31. A fire occurred onboard USS George Washington on May 22 while the ship was at sea. The ship is currently in port at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, conducting repairs to spaces and equipment affected by the fire. The timeline for repairs to the ship has not yet been determined.

Once repairs to the ship are complete, USS George Washington will replace USS Kitty Hawk as the United States Navy's forward deployed aircraft carrier in the Pacific.

The transfer will occur in San Diego, California, with CVW-5, arriving with Kitty Hawk to San Diego, California and would be the first time turning over duty as the forward deployed carrier occurred state side.

RIMPAC, hosted by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, demonstrates the U. S. Navy's commitment to working with our global partners in protecting the maritime freedom as a basis for global prosperity and to ensure stability throughout the Pacific.

RIMPAC has been conducted since 1971. This year's exercise consists of 10 nations, 35 ships, six submarines, over 150 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Soldiers and Coast Guardsmen. Units from Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, United Kingdom and the U.S. are scheduled to participate. http://www.kittyhawk.navy.mil

Commander Rear Adm. Philip H. Cullom, CCSG 8, and CVW-17 embarked USS George Washington (CVN 73) to participate in Partnership of the Americas in the U.S. Southern Command area of focus (AOF) .Brazil, Argentina and the United States conducted UNITAS 49-08. After approximately two months, the ship continued on its transit while Carrier Strike Group 8 and CVW-17 returned to Norfolk. DESRON 40, Kauffman and Farragut remained in the SOUTHCOM AOF to continue their participation in Partnership of the Americas for a six-month deployment. Prior to entering the Pacific, CVW-17 (AA) and CCSG-8 returned to Oceana. VFA-143; VFA-103; VFA-83; VFA-131 and VAW-121 are assigned to CVW-7 (AG) stationed at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, FL and reported to be onboard in the Pacific, while CVW-17 squadrons were not reported publicly during the first two months of deployment.
http://www.nasjax.navy.mil

Kitty Hawk Carrier Strike Group consists of Commander, Carrier Strike Group 5 (CCSG 5), Rear Adm. Richard B. Wren, Commander Destroyer Squadron Fifteen, Captain Mark Montgomery and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, Aegis cruisers USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS Shiloh (CG 67), and seven ships of DESRON FIFTEEN Oscar Austin-Class guided missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG-82); Arleigh Burke Class guided missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG-85); USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62); USS John S. McCain (DDG-56); USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG-54) and USS Mustin (DDG-89) and USS Stethem (DDG 63) (Based on Task Force 70 and DESRON FIFTEEN Ships).

Commander, Carrier Strike Group 5 (CCSG 5)
COMCARSTRIKGRU FIVE
http://www.ccsg5.navy.mil/index.html

The Forward Deployed Naval Forces of
Carrier Strike Group Five
http://www.ccsg5.navy.mil/history.html

Task Force 70 is the Carrier Strike Group component of Battle Force Seventh Fleet commanded by Rear Admiral Richard B. Wren. It is centered on the USS KITTY HAWK (CV-63) and the embarked Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW-5). Admiral Wren also commands Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (or Task Force 75) comprised of Aegis Cruisers USS SHILOH (CG 67) and USS COWPENS (CG 63) and the seven assigned ships of Destroyer Squadron FIFTEEN (CDS-15).

KITTY HAWK and the nine surface combatant ships operate out of Yokosuka, Japan, while Carrier Air Wing FIVE operates out of Atsugi, Japan, when not embarked on the KITTY HAWK.

Together, they form the critical combat elements of the U.S. Seventh Fleet as the U.S. Navy’s only permanently forward deployed and largest carrier strike group, designated Carrier Strike Group Five (CSG 5). CSG5 forces have a higher operational tempo and are an average of 17 steaming days closer to locations in Asia than naval forces based in the continental United States.

As Commander of Battle Force Seventh Fleet, Rear Admiral Wren has operational control of all carrier strike groups and surface combatants that deploy or transit through the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility.

CTF 70 is preparing to transfer to the USS George Washington(CVN73) and carry on our duties as the nations Forward Deployed Command Task Force.
http://www.ccsg5.navy.mil/history.html

Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (Task Force 75) Ships
http://www.ccsg5.navy.mil/CTF70ships.html include DESRON FIFTEEN SHIPS, Kitty Hawk and USS Cowpens (CG 63) and USS Shiloh (CG 67).

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) visited Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 30 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.
http://www.reagan.navy.mil/news.html

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) departed Sasebo, Japan 1 August 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) departed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on 1 August 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) conducted carrier qualifications in the Western Atlantic from 29 July to 1 August 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway on “WestPac” from 1 to 4 August 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) deck department’s boatswain’s mates completed the ship’s last refueling at sea August 6.
http://www.kittyhawk.navy.mil/news/Story%20Pages/Story6.htm

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) pulled into San Diego, C. on 7 August 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway in the Pacific from 1 to 7 August 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) with CVW-5 embarked arrived San Diego, Ca. on 7 August 2008, ending her final forward-deployed deployment operating out of the port of Yokosuka, Japan, departing on 28 May 2008, from Japan with hundreds of friends, family members and distinguished visitors watching as the ship left the piers where it has operated from for nearly a decade. Her 28th Westpac and 21st deployment in foreign waters as a forward deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet on its spring deployment in the Western Pacific Ocean ENDED. Kitty Hawk participated in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008 Exercise in the Hawaiian operating area from June 29 through July 31. Prior forward deployed carriers turned over duty in Hawaii. Prior forward deployed carriers turned over duty in Hawaii. To be decommissioned in Bremerton, Washington the Navy's oldest active-duty aircraft carrier (48 years old since her commission) will pass on its responsibilities as the only carrier operating permanently outside of the United States to the USS George Washington (CVN 73) in port San Diego, Ca. Her 44th deployment since her commission on 29 April 1961 and approximately the US Navy’s 793rd carrier FWFD ended.

Kitty Hawk was homeported at Naval Air Station North Island for 25 years of its 47-year life.

While moored at North Island, Kitty Hawk will turnover its responsibilities as the Navy’s only aircraft carrier operating from Japan to the USS George Washington (CVN 73).

The aircraft and more than 2,000 members of Carrier Air Wing 5, and about 600 Kitty Hawk Sailors, will cross over to the George Washington before it departs for Japan. Kitty Hawk will sail to Bremerton, Wash., later this month where it will decommission in January 2009.

As the oldest active-duty warship and last diesel-fuel powered aircraft carrier in the Navy, Kitty Hawk made history during its return to the U.S.: it is the only aircraft carrier to have more than 100,000 launches from one of its waist catapults.

Throughout its lifetime, Kitty Hawk has had 407,511 arrested carrier landings and 448,301 launches.

Kitty Hawk’s voyage home started when the ship left Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, May 28. Since then the ship made its final port visit to Guam, then on to Hawaii, where it took part in the 21st biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise with a nine other nations.

Lt.j.g Brian Page, Strike Fighter Squadron 195’s intelligence officer, said he’ll miss Kitty Hawk’s sense of history and tradition.

“I don’t think a lot of other ships have that,” said Page. “It’s almost like Kitty Hawk is a living person, and that comes with age.”

Kitty Hawk is special to Lt. Stephen Lamoure, of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 115, because of everything that the ship has been through; from Vietnam to being forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan.

“Kitty Hawk is a war hero,” Lamoure said. “I feel privileged to have ridden on this ship.”

Lamoure had the honor of landing the last E-2C Hawkeye on Kitty Hawk August 5.

For Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Recruit Vladzimir Ilnitskiy, originally from Vitebsk, Belarus, Kitty Hawk has been a growing experience.

“I’ll miss the ship because it’s given me new opportunity, and I’ve become familiar to it, but I’m ready for new challenges in a new environment,” he said.

For some, this was a first taste of life at sea.

“VAW-115 was my first squadron, so it’s always the most memorable,” said Lamoure. “I’ll always remember the camaraderie I’ve been able to gain with the squadron and air wing.”

For others, Kitty Hawk is just another carrier to add to a long list of Navy experiences.

Master Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate James Giangrosso, Air Department’s leading chief petty officer, said he’ll always appreciate the functionality of the chief’s mess.

“It’s a very close mess, and I’ve seen a few in my time,” he said. “Kitty Hawk seems to bring people together. There must be something in the air that generates camaraderie.”

Aviation Ordnaceman (AW/SW) 1st Class Jorge Maldonado of Strike Fighter Squadron 102 cross-decked from USS Independence (CV 62) to Kitty Hawk in 1998. Years later he came back to Kitty Hawk, and is now cross-decking with the air wing to George Washington.

Maldonado said Kitty Hawk will always be special to him because he got to go through the crossing-the-line ceremony on the flight deck. Becoming a shellback is one of his favorite Kitty Hawk memories.
“You’re only a pollywog once,” he said.
http://www.kittyhawk.navy.mil/news/story%20pages/story3.htm

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) conducting Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 08 "Operation Brimstone" underway in the Western Atlantic from 1 to 8 August 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway in the South China Sea from 5 to 12 August 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway in 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 Malaysia for a routine port visit Aug. 18.

The strike group’s flagship, the Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW 14), the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) pulled into Port Kelang.

“This visit helps build maritime cooperation and cultural understanding between the United States and Malaysia,” said Rear Adm. Phil Wisecup, commander, Carrier Strike Group 7. “We’re all pretty excited to visit a modern, vibrant city like Kuala Lumpur.”

This marks the fifth port visit for CSG-7 during its 2008 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment, and the second visit to Malaysia by USS Ronald Reagan. The carrier last visited in June 2006.

“Our Sailors plan to do some sightseeing and shopping in this magnificent country,” said Capt. Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan’s commanding officer. “They’ll also make a positive impact for the needy ashore.”

More than 320 strike group Sailors will volunteer their time and efforts in eight community service projects in Malaysian orphanages, schools and homes for the elderly. Sailors will have opportunities to explore Malaysia during Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) activities, including rock climbing, elephant rides in Kuala Gandah and tours of downtown Kuala Lumpur and historical Malacca. http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2008/08/09.htm

Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Gary Roughead, visited USS George Washington (CVN 73) at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, Aug. 19, to address the crew and take questions as the ship prepares to get underway for Yokosuka, Japan.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39227

The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) with her crew of approximately 5,500 Sailors departed San Diego Aug. 21, to begin her journey to Yokosuka, Japan to replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the United States' only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.

Commanded by Capt. John R. Haley, GW became the flagship for the Commander, Task Force 70 (CTF 70), Rear Adm. Richard B. Wren last week after he and his staff moved to GW from Kitty Hawk.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39259

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) visited Port Kelang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 18 to 21 August 2008.

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.

The strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) departed Port Klang.

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.

"The children's home is a very small house and is Hindu. It receives a lot less financial help than other children's homes in Petaling Jaya. Everyone at the home was grateful for our help," said Chief Religious Programs Specialist (FMF/AW/SW) Marcus Taylor, leading chief petty officer for Ronald's Reagan's Religious Ministries Department.

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. Upon arrival, Sailors watched a 45-minute documentary about the sanctuary's mission supporting the elephants. Afterwards, many Sailors hand-fed the elephants and enjoyed escorted rides atop the elephants, which included a chance to bathe with them in a nearby river.

"The elephant sanctuary was peaceful. You won't get a chance to ride an elephant anywhere else," said Aviation Electrician's Mate Airman Apprentice Daniel Griffith, from VFA-115.

Some Sailors preferred the fast pace of the city to rural Malaysia.

During a tour of downtown Kuala Lumpur, Sailors perused Chinatown, the central market and Independence Square, all against the backdrop of the 88-floor twin Petronas Towers in the Golden Triangle business district.

"It was really interesting viewing different architecture, trying out the local cuisine and talking to the people of Malaysia," said Air Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW) Jaclyn Vargas.

The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is in the U.S. 7th Fleet's area of responsibility as part of a routine deployment to promote peace, cooperation and stability in the region. 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

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) underway in the Western Atlantic conducting carrier qualifications for CNATRA from 14 to 26 August 2008.
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Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 commanding officer marked a milestone Aug. 26 by achieving his 1,000th arrested landing, or "trap," in an EA-6B Prowler aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) Aug. 26. http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39552

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway in the Indian Ocean from 21 to 26 August 2008.

Several senior military officials visited the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) from 25 to 26 August 2008. The visitors included Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq; Army Gen. David McKiernan, commander of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan; Navy Adm. Eric Olson, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command; and Army Lt. Gen. Martin Dempsey, acting commander of U.S. Central Command. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=50960

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) visited San Diego from 7 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, the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) bound for Afghanistan to support coalition ground forces.

“This is the mission we’ve been training for almost a year to carry out,” said Rear Adm. Phil Wisecup, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7. “Every Sailor in this strike group has tremendous focus right now; our pilots and maintenance crews are extremely sharp, and we’ll do our part to help coalition troops and foster security in Afghanistan.”

Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group relieved the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Carrier Strike Group who has operated in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) since April.

Other CSG-7 ships are supporting 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.

USS Ronald Reagan is joined by the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) and relieves USS Abraham Lincoln on station. The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group performed the CTF 50 mission for just over four months.

“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.

The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment to the region. Operations in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command area of operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States’ commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity. http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2008/111.html

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) departed San Diego on 28 August 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) returned to Norfolk, Va. on 29 August 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) conducted Friends and Family Day Cruise off the coast of Virginia on 30 August 2008.

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth for a Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) in August 2008, scheduled to complete February 2009.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) underway in the Eastern Pacific from 28 August to 1 September 2008.

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) arrived at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton on 2 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the North Arabian Sea from 9 July to 2 September 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Five passed their Combat Operations Efficiency (COE) certification with flying colors Sept. 2.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the North Arabian Sea from 9 July to 2 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Indian Ocean from 3 to 5 September 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) underway in the Western Atlantic on 5 September 2008.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) with CVW-8 embarked departed Norfolk, Virginia 8 September 2008, with Captain Ladd Wheeler in command, Rear Adm. Michael Vitale, commander, Carrier Strike Group 2, TRCSG and more then 5,000 Sailors; assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, will transit to the Indian Ocean via a scheduled port call at Cape Town, South Africa, as part of an on-going effort to reinforce relationships, increase interoperability and address maritime issues. She may at some point in the deployment operate with the 5th Fleet on possibly her fifth Arabian Sea/Gulf (Persian Gulf) deployment in support of Security Operations (MSO) on what would be the US Navy’s 90th Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf deployment since September 1945 operating under operational control of the US Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet., 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 (commencing 26 August 1992, when President George H. W. Bush announced that the United States and its allies had informed Iraq that in 24 hours Allied aircraft would fly surveillance missions in southern Iraq and were prepared to shoot down any Iraqi aircraft flying south of the 32nd parallel, while President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated at 9 p.m. EST 27 February 1992, flight operations ending at midnight), with Operation Desert Storm commencing in the early morning hours of 17 January 1991 until 27 February 1992, when President George Bush declared Kuwait had been liberated and Operation Desert Storm would end at midnight) and Operation Desert Shield commencing 2 August 1990 (Iraqi occupation of Kuwait). The strike group’s ships are prepared to conduct a variety of missions, including forward naval presence, maritime security operations, crisis response, and theater support cooperation. She would under go her tenth Mediterranean Sea deployment (15th voyage) operating with the 6th Fleet if so directed to transit the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea for operations and would be her 15th Suez Canal Suez Canal transit and her eleventh deployment since her commission 25 October 1986 and approximately the US Navy’s 794th carrier Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD).

TR deploys with embarked Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22.

“Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group units have completed all requirements for deployment and are prepared to achieve any missions we will be tasked to execute on deployment in support of theater commanders,” said Rear Adm. Frank Pandolfe, Commander, and TR CSG.

The strike group recently completed a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) , made up of more than 15,000 service members from six countries working together to advance the art of coalition operations, as well as learning to maximize the unique capabilities and strengths of each member of the combined force.

TR Commanding Officer, Capt. Ladd Wheeler, praised his crew for the work they did in preparation for the deployment. He said the ship is ready, the crew is well-trained and everyone is excited to get a chance to implement their training during the deployment.

“We can all take great pride in the men and women we are sending forward to represent our country,” said Wheeler. “They have each worked diligently to ensure that they are properly trained and Theodore Roosevelt is prepared for a variety of missions we may encounter while on deployment.”

While the carrier left today, other TR CSG assets, which include the guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61); the guided missile destroyers USS Sullivans (DDG 68), USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Nitze (DDG 94); the attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761); and the fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 3), will depart this week.
http://www.tr.surfor.navy.mil/News%20Storys/news%20story81.htm

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Pacific from 21 August to 10 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Gulf of Thailand on 8 to 11 September 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Western Pacific on 12 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) arrived Laem Chabang, Thailand on 12 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visited Laem Chabang, Thailand from 12 to 15 September 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Pacific on 16 September 2008.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) departed Norfolk, Va. for Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) and Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) off the coast of Virginia and North on 17 September 2008.

The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) hosted the Japanese ambassador to the United States for an overnight embark Sept. 17 on the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), operating off the coast of Virginia.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39843

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Western Pacific on 12 to 23 September 2008.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departed Bremerton for Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications, new EA-18G Growler of VX-9 to test, Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) on 23 September 2008.

The EA-18G Growler and the advantages it brings are being tested for the first time in an integrated operational environment aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) by Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 9 as part of Operation Evaluation (OPEVAL).

The Growler is an electronic attack aircraft, using the same airframe as the F/A-18F Super Hornet. It's scheduled to replace the EA-6B Prowler in spring 2009 and continue the electronic attack mission in carrier strike groups. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40141

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

PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 24, 2008) Rear Admiral Kawamura of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s Escort Flotilla One arrives in a MH-60S helicopter onboard USS George Washington (CVN 73). Kawamura is meeting with fellow senior naval officers a day before the ship’s anticipated arrival in Yokosuka, Japan. George Washington is transiting to Japan where the ship will replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anthony R. Martinez
http://www.c7f.navy.mil

PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 25, 2008) – Sailors aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) form the phrase “Hajimemashite,” which means “nice to meet you” in Japanese, as they arrive at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. The GW and Carrier Air Wing 5 team will be operating from Fleet Activities Yokosuka as the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier which will upgrade the Navy’s ability to preserve regional security and stability in the Western Pacific.
http://www.c7f.navy.mil

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) underway in the Pacific from 16 to 29 September 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) underway in the North Arabian Sea from 28 August to 1 October 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed its forward-deployed operating port of Yokosuka, Japan on her first deployment as a forward-deployed carrier on 1 October 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visited Pearl Harbor, Hawaii from 30 September to 2 October 2008.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) underway in the Atlantic from 8 September to 3 October 2008.

Ships from the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TR CSG), assigned to U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of an on-going effort to reinforce relationships, increase interoperability and address maritime issues.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40178

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) departed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii departed on 3 October 2008 with friends and family aboard for a "Tiger Cruise"

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) anchored off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa on 4 October 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Western Pacific from 1 to 4 October 2008.

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) made a port visit in the Middle East from 2 to 5 October 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Sea of Japan on 5 October 2008.

Sailors celebrated Hispanic American Heritage with a Hispanic dinner menu, Latino dance performance and a ceremony on the ship's forecastle Oct. 5. Celebrating cultural diversity is a way to help create and sustain a cultural awareness that values diversity and an environment where every individual prospers and contributes to the mission.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40371

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) visited Cape Town, South Africa from 4 to 6 October 2008. This port visit was a historic event as it marked the first time a U.S. aircraft carrier has visited South Africa in 41 years. The last time a carrier visited Cape Town was USS Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1967.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40215

USS George Washington (CVN 73) anchored off the coast of Busan, Korea on 6 October 2008.

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducted a Tiger Cruise en route to San Diego, Ca. from 3 to 7 October 2008.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) departed Cape Town, South Africa on 7 October 2008.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) claimed the first successful hit and kill with the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) during a Combat System Ship's Qualification Trials (CSSQT) off the coast of Southern California Oct. 7.

Stennis' Tactical Action Officer Ens. Clay Cunningham said, "This is the first successful ESSM kill from an aircraft carrier."

Combat systems department launched the new missiles, the RIM-162 D-1, during a live-fire exercise by engaging drones inbound to Stennis.

"The evaluation team from Port Hueneme [California] said Stennis' combat systems team performed at the top of the fleet," said Combat Systems Officer Cmdr. Greg Gaskey.

The ESSM has advantages in range, agility and advanced technology over the RIM-7.

A short-range missile, the ESSM is designed to provide self defense for surface ships. The new missile is launched from the existing NATO Sea Sparrow Launcher. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40222

USS George Washington (CVN 73) underway in the Sea of Japan on 7 October 2008.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group pulled into San Diego Oct. 8, after a seven-month deployment supporting maritime security operations in 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation.

Sailors and aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 disembarked the strike group's flag ship USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The ship will get underway Oct. 9 to return to her homeport of Everett, Wash.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40245

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) underway in the Western Atlantic conducting Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) and Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) off the coast of Virginia and North Carolina from 17 September to 9 October 2008.

Ships from the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TR CSG), assigned to Commander U.S. 6th Fleet, participated in a one-day theater security cooperation (TSC) exercise with units from the South African and French navies while underway in the Indian Ocean Oct. 9. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40261

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visited San Diego, Ca. from 8 to 9 October 2008.
http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40245

USS George Washington (CVN 73) anchored off the coast of Busan, Korea from 8 to 9 October 2008.

Sailors from George Washington ,USS Cowpens (CG 63) and USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) participated in the annual Jagalchi Festival parade in Busan Oct. 9. The three ships were in port Busan participating in the International Fleet Review celebrating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the armed forces of the Republic of Korea (ROK). The Jagalchi Festival is held annually in the Jagalchi Seafood Market area during October. The festival consists of a parade, dance exhibition's, fireworks, an eel relay race and much more. Various other countries' sailors participated in the parade including Russian, Japanese, British, Australian, Chinese, Singapore, Indian and Royal Thai sailors along with the Republic of Korea's marines and navy.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40370

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) returned to Norfolk, Va. on 10 October 2008.

USS George Washington (CVN 73) (GW), the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, wrapped up its first port visit Oct. 10, in Busan, South Korea, where Sailors participated in this year's International Fleet Review.
http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=40368

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducted a Tiger Cruise en route to Everett, Wa. from 9 to 11 October 2008.
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U. S. Navy Veteran
August 1977 to July 1983

Yoeman Second Class,
with student pilot's license