Army Gen. James D. Thurman, commander, United Nations Command, Republic of Korea – United States Combined Forces command, and United States Forces Korea, visited the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) upon the ship’s arrival in Busan, Republic of Korea.
While on board, Thurman performed an award ceremony in the forecastle to present Sailors with Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist pins.
Rear Adm. Michael S. White, commander, Carrier Strike Group Eleven introduced Thurman to approximately 200 Sailors at the ceremony.
“It’s a special treat for us on board USS Nimitz,” said White. “We’ve got a true warrior here. A man who has led troops in war and in peace, and around the globe.”
During the ceremony Thurman shared a few words with the crowd.
“It’s indeed my honor to come down and see you today and say thank you,” said Thurman. “Thank you for your tremendous service to the United States of America.”
After the ceremony, Thurman toured several spaces including diesel spaces, the flight deck, the pilot house, squadron ready rooms and the combat direction center. Along the way he talked to Sailors and Marines about their day-to-day jobs aboard the ship.
For Seaman Mikayla Farley, meeting Thurman was an insightful experience.
“The general was inspiring by the way he said we were here to help keep the peace,” said Farley.
Thurman had a positive message for the crew during his time on board Nimitz.
“It’s really a highlight of my day to come out on a beautiful day, when the sun is out, and step on board this great symbol of peace and symbol of the United States of America,” said Thurman.
Nimitz is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.
[mappress] Press Release, May 13, 2013; Image: US Navy