The commander of Naval Air Forces (CNAF) visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during the ship’s port call in San Diego, Dec. 11.
CNAF Commander Vice Adm. Allen G. Myers met with Rear Adm. Mike Shoemaker , commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 and Capt. John D. Alexander , Lincoln’s commanding officer, to present them with the 2010 CNAF Battle Efficiency Award (Battle “E”) and addressed the ship’s crew.
During his address, he commended Lincoln Sailors for their high state of readiness heading into the ship’s second deployment in the last year, and said the job they are doing is essential to the Navy’s overall mission.
“I commend the Sailors aboard this ship for their hard work and dedication,” said Myers. “Facing yet another deployment really shows the tremendous character of each and every Sailor aboard.”
Myers also told the crew they possess a tremendous responsibility to represent their nation to the people of the world.
“Being overseas, you act as a global deterrent to foreign nations. You’re constantly protecting our sea lanes. I wish you luck on your deployment, and I have every confidence you will continue to set the bar for success,” he said.
Carrier Strike Group 9, comprised of Abraham Lincoln and embarked Carrier Air Wing 2 and Destroyer Squadron 9, departed Everett, Wash., Dec. 7, on deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility.
Abraham Lincoln is changing homeports from Everett, Wash. to Norfolk, Va. following deployment for a periodic refueling complex overhaul.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , December 13, 2011; Image: navy