USS Enterprise Celebrates Navy Birthday Underway for Last Time

USS Enterprise (CVN 65) did its part in celebrating the Navy’s 237th birthday with its own unique flare Oct. 13.

For over 200 years, the United States Navy has stood the watch as the shield of the republic. It has protected the country and its interests around the world.

Enterprise Sailors celebrated the Navy’s 237th birthday the “Big E” way. Amelia Chappell, the fitness boss aboard Big E, coordinated with Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) to put together a fun exercise event for the crew. The event took place in the hangar bay both in the morning and at night to give everyone a chance to participate. Each Sailor taking part in the event was asked to do 237 push ups and 237 curl-ups to honor the Navy’s birthday.

The Enlisted Junior Sailor Organization (EJSO) hosted the traditional cutting of the Navy’s birthday cake. The Chief’s Mess also participated by helping serve the cake.

“On the 237th birthday of our Navy, we have the honor to serve in the greatest maritime force ever seen,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Leteaisha A. Carter, EJSO president. “So with humility, we continue trying to live up to the example of those who have come before us.”

The cake-cutting ceremony began with opening remarks delivered by Carter and Capt. William C. Hamilton, Jr., commanding officer of Enterprise.

The cutting of the cake has been a long standing tradition in which the oldest and the youngest Sailor at a command cut the first piece. Enterprise took part in this tradition for the last time as the legendary carrier begins to wrap up its 25th and final deployment.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Joseph R. Burris, of Air department’s V-3 division, and Capt. Stephen Paulette, the oral-maxillofacial surgeon aboard Enterprise, were selected to cut the cake. Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Timothy Lumpkin, leading petty officer of Deck department’s 2nd division, rang the eight bells signaling the beginning of the next year for the Navy.

Enterprise celebrated its last Navy birthday with pride. Sailors from every corner of the ship turned out for the evening celebration. Without a shadow of a doubt, this birthday celebration was truly one to remember.

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Naval Today Staff, October 16, 2012; Image: US Navy