China: CSG1 Arrives in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor

Sailors assigned to Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 arrived in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor for a port visit Dec 27.

CSG 1 includes the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and guided-missile destroyers USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Chafee (DDG 90).

In addition to the Sailors taking time to explore the rich cultural opportunities a port visit to Hong Kong offers, 155 Sailors will be participating in several different community service projects to include painting at Po Leung Kuk Merry Court for the Elderly, visiting Elderly Centers and Children’s homes, and landscaping at Hong Chi Pinehill Village.

“Returning to Hong Kong is a real pleasure. Our Sailors are happy to be back and we look forward to creating new and lasting friendships while visiting and during participation in community service projects,” said Commander, CSG 1, Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon.

In addition to participating in community service projects, more than 200 CSG-1 Sailors will experience the hospitality of 22 Hong Kong based families and local establishments who will host them in their homes or restaurants for lunch or dinner through the “Meals in the Home” program.

“Meals in the Home” is a program designed to connect hosts living in Hong Kong with U.S. Navy Sailors while in port. Hosts not only plan a dinner/lunch but often design invites around hiking, local tours, and other Hong Kong highlights. Hosts sign up to share their time and meals as a “thank you” as well as giving the Sailors an opportunity to experience a bit of home away from home.

“Hong Kong is favorite port visit for the United States Navy and Carl Vinson Sailors are excited to be back,” added Vinson Commanding Officer Capt. Kent Whalen.

The strike group last visited Hong Kong in May.

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Naval Today Staff , December 29, 2011; Image: navy