Commander of Naval Air Forces Visits Sailors Aboard Nimitz-Class Aircraft Carrier USS Carl Vinson

The commander of Naval Air Forces visited Sailors aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during the ship’s underway operations off the coast of California, Dec. 3.

Vice Adm. Myers conducted a series of office calls and toured a variety of shipboard spaces, talking with Vinson Sailors and visiting the embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 squadrons. During his 1MC address, he recognized Vinson’s accomplishments between deployments.

“This is the iconic ship from last deployment,” said Myers before mentioning Vinson’s accomplishments hosting the Carrier Classic. “I almost didn’t recognize the flight deck when I came aboard because I was looking for the court.”

He specifically mentioned the pride he felt in a crew that has spent seven of the last 12 months at sea, yet left San Diego again three days ago.

“You absolutely embody what makes our Navy great,” said Myers. “For the third time in three years, you’re heading out on deployment. You are what we talk about when we focus on what it means to be a warfighter. The Navy has never been a garrison force; we’re always the away team. You’re overseas influencing foreign nations and protecting our sea lanes.”

Myers also took the opportunity to emphasize the fact that Vinson Sailors are showcasing the versatility and strength of a Carrier Strike Group.

“You are the ones America is relying on. You will be providing the American influence and the presence around the globe. I know you’re going to demonstrate in multiple oceans the strength from the sea of the United States,” Myers said. “You prove daily how important our aircraft carriers are. I have every confidence you will continue to set the bar for success. Thank you for your hard work, dedication and commitment. You prove every day what a strong team can do.”

Carrier Strike Group 1 – comprised of Vinson and embarked CVW-17, guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), and guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) – are conducting a western Pacific deployment.

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Naval Today Staff , December 06, 2011; Image: navy