Carrier Strike Group Two

Carrier Strike Group Two

Carrier Strike Group Two emblem
Active 1 October 2004 to date.[1]
Country  United States of America
Branch United States Navy
Type Carrier Strike Group
Role Naval air/surface warfare
Part of United States Fleet Forces Command
Garrison/HQ Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia
Nickname George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWB CSG)
Engagements Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)
Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)
Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A)
Operation Steel Curtain
Operation New Dawn (OND)
Website Official Website
Commanders
Commander Rear Admiral Nora W. Tyson, USN[2]
Chief of Staff Captain William B. Seaman, Jr., USN[3]
Command Master Chief YNCM(SW/AW) Dee Allen, USN[4]
Notable
commanders		 James A. Winnefeld, Jr.
David M. Thomas

Carrier Strike Group Two, abbreviated CSG-2 or CARSTRKGRU 2, is one of five U.S. Navy carrier strike groups currently assigned the United States Fleet Forces Command. U.S. Navy carrier strike groups are employed in a variety of roles, all of which involve gaining and maintaining sea control.[5]

CARSTRKGRU 2 is currently based at Naval Station Norfolk, and it typically deploys to the U.S. Sixth Fleet operating in the Mediterranean and the U.S. Fifth Fleet in the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf. The current flagship for Carrier Strike Group Two is the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush, replacing the USS Theodore Roosevelt which was undergoing its 2009–2013 mid-life refueling and complex overhaul.

On 29 July 2010, Rear Admiral Nora W. Tyson assumed command of Carrier Strike Group Two, becoming the first woman to command a U.S. Navy carrier task group. Carrier Strike Group Two's 2011 Mediterrranean (MED) deployment marked the maiden deployment for the carrier George H.W. Bush and the guided-missile destroyer Truxtun, as well as the first carrier-based overseas deployment for the Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft.

Contents

Overview

Historical background

Carrier Division Two

Carrier Division Two (CarDiv 2) was established on 30 September 1937, consisting of the fleet aircraft carriers USS Yorktown and USS Enterprise, under the command of Vice Admiral William F. Halsey.[6] In February 1939, Carrier Division Two, still consisting of Yorktown and Enterprise, participated in the war game Fleet Problem XX. The scenario for the exercise called for one fleet to control the sea lanes in the Caribbean against the incursion of a foreign European power while maintaining sufficient naval strength to protect vital American interests in the Pacific.[7]

During World War II, aircraft carriers assigned to Carrier Division Two participated in the Doolittle Raid (pictured), the Battle of Midway, the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, Operation Hailstone, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf, as well as the Solomon Islands campaign, the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign, the Hollandia and Western New Guinea campaign, the Philippines Campaign, the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, the Iwo Jima campaign, and the Okinawan campaign, as part of the U.S. Navy's Fast Carrier Task Force.[6][8]

After the war, aircraft carriers assigned to Carrier Division Two were involved in the Cuba Missile Crisis, Operation Sea Orbit, the Six-Day War, and the Vietnam War.[6] USS Enterprise flew the flag of Commander Carrier Division 2 in 1963. On 25 September 1965, Rear Admiral J. O. Cobb broke his flag as Commander, Carrier Division 2, aboard USS America. The division was re-designated as Commander Carrier Group Two (ComCarGru 2) in 1973.

Carrier Group Two

The 1980s were also a particularly busy operational period for Carrier Group Two (CarGru 2). During the 1986 Mediterranean deployment with USS Coral Sea as flagship, the F/A-18 Hornet was introduced to the fleet.[6] Subsequently, battle group aircraft led Operation El Dorado Canyon strikes against Libyan targets. On August 15, 1990, the group staff demonstrated the importance of 'training to fight' as it embarked in USS John F. Kennedy for a surge combat deployment in response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait (pictured). The battle group deployed for Operation Desert Storm only five days after notification, even though she had dispersed her air wing throughout the continental United States for training and just off-loaded stores and material in preparation for a routine yard period.

In the summer of 1992, the U.S. Navy decided to group escorts more consistently with aircraft carriers. Instead of routinely changing the cruisers, destroyers, and frigates assigned to each carrier battle group, there was an attempt made to affiliate certain escorts more permanently with the carriers they escorted. Each of the Navy's 12 existing carrier battle groups was planned to consist of an aircraft carrier; an embarked carrier air wing; cruiser, destroyer, and frigate units; and two nuclear-powered attack submarines.[9] The first such carrier battle group assigned to Carrier Group Two consisted of Carrier Air Wing Three; Destroyer Squadron 40; the nuclear submarines Seahorse and Albuquerque; the guided-missile cruisers Wainwright, Leyte Gulf, and Gettysburg; and the carrier John F. Kennedy which served as the battle group's flagship.[9]

The John F. Kennedy Carrier Battle Group (JFKCVBG) saw extensive service with the U.S. Sixth Fleet in enforcement of the U.N.-mandated no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina. The battle group also saw service with the U.S. Fifth Fleet in support Operation Southern Watch, the enforcement of a no-fly zone over southern Iraq. Commander Carrier Group Two also served as Commander Joint Task Force 120 during Operation Uphold Democracy, the 1994–1995 intervention designed to remove the military regime in Haiti installed by the 1991 Haitian coup d'état.[6] On 1 October 1995, John F. Kennedy was designated an operational reserve carrier and reserve force ship assigned to the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.[10]

Beginning in 2001, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Battle Group (HSTCVBG) participated in Operation Joint Endeavor, Operation Deny Flight, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Enduring Freedom - Afghanistan, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Summer Pulse '04, and NATO Operation Medshark/Majestic Eagle '04 (MS/ME04) under the operational control of the Commander Carrier Group Two (ComCarGru 2).[11]

Command structure

Further information: Carrier Strike Group

Commander Carrier Strike Group Two (COMCARSTRKGRU 2) serves as Immediate Superior-in-Command (ISIC) for the ships and units assigned to Carrier Strike Group Ten. Acting as an Operational Commander, COMCARSTRKGRU 2 exercises oversight of unit-level training, integrated training, and readiness for assigned ships and units, as well as maintains administrative functions and material readiness tracking for ships and squadrons assigned to the group.

Carrier Strike Group Two reports to the Deputy Commander, Fleet & Joint Operations, United States Fleet Forces Command/Commander Task Force 20 as one of its six carrier strike groups reporting directly to that Vice Admiral-ranked flag officer. CARSTRKGRU 2's pre-deployment training and certification comes under the operational control (OPCON) of USFLTFORCOM following the disestablisment of the U.S. Second Fleet on 30 September 2011.[12][13] When deployed overseas, Carrier Strike Group Two comes under the command authority of the U.S. Sixth Fleet when operating in the Mediterranean Sea and the U.S. Fifth Fleet when operating in the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf.

U.S. Navy type commands are in administrative control (ADCON) and in some cases, operational control (OPCON) of certain types of assets (i.e., surface combatant ships, submarines, aircraft, and fleet marines) assigned to the U.S. Fleet Forces Command. The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush; the guided-missile cruisers USS Vella Gulf, USS Monterey, and USS Leyte Gulf; and Destroyer Squadron Twenty-Two are under the administrative authority of Commander, Naval Surface Forces Atlantic.[14] Carrier Air Wing 8 is under the administrative authority of Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic.

CARSTRKGRU 2 Commanders

    • Rear Admiral James A. Winnefeld, Jr.   (July 2004 – June 2006)[15][16]
    • Rear Admiral Michael C. Vitale   (June 2006 – September 2007)[16][17]
    • Rear Admiral Frank Craig Pandolfe   (September 2007 – July 2009)[17][18]
    • Rear Admiral David M. Thomas   (July 2009 – July 2010)[19]
    • Captain Jeffrey A. Hesterman   (July 2010)[20][21][22]
    • Rear Admiral Nora W. Tyson   (July 2010 – Present)[20][21]

Force composition in 2011

U.S. Navy carrier strike groups typically consist of an aircraft carrier (flagship), an embarked carrier air wing, at least one Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser, and a destroyer squadron. As of 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two comprises:

2004–2006 Operations

2004 maintenance cycle

The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt was re-assigned to Carrier Group Two (CarGru 2) effective 1 February 2004, and the ship underwent its Docked Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA) yard overhaul at the Newport Naval Yard in Virginia between 10 August to 10 December 2004.[24][25] On 1 October 2004, Carrier Group Two was re-designated as Carrier Strike Group Two (CARSTRKGRU 2), with Theodore Roosevelt as its flagship.[1] Theodore Roosevelt underwent sea trials 11–15 December 2004, and the carrier was officially delivered back to the Navy on 17 December 2004.[24]

2005 pre-deployment training exercises

Flight deck certifications

The carrier Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing Eight got under way on 12 January 2005 to begin flight deck certifications. Commander, Naval Air Force U.S. Atlantic Fleet Handling Team, Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment Maintenance Program inspectors, and contractors from Carrier Airfield Support Unit, who assist in mechanical maintenance during flight deck certification, were on board the Theodore Roosevelt during these certification exercises.[26] Also, on 4 May 2005, the Spanish guided-missile frigate Álvaro de Bazán (pictured) officially joined the group for its 2005 Mediterranean deployment, a first for a Spanish naval vessel.[27]

Joint Task Force Exercise 05-2: Operation Brewing Storm

Carrier Strike Group Two (CARSTRKGRU 2) participated in Joint Task Force Exercise 05-2 (JTFEX 05-2), code-named Operation Brewing Storm, between 14–22 July 2005. The operation involved warships from four navies, and it presented U.S. and coalition forces with realistic and dynamic exercise threats that closely replicate operational challenges military forces routinely encounter around the world. It was designed to provide quality, realistic training to prepare U.S. forces for joint and combined operations.[28][29] In addition to CARSTRKGRU 2, Operation Brewing Storm also included Carrier Strike Group Ten led by the Harry S. Truman, as well as the Spanish guided-missile frigate Álvaro de Bazán, and the Peruvian diesel-electric attack submarine Antofagasta.[29] Also, on 17 July 2005, the group officially achieved its Combat Operations Efficiency (COE) certification attesting it had met the criteria required to fly in the open ocean without the need of a divert airfield. To obtain its COE, the carrier Theodore Roosevelt and Carrier Air Wing Eight had to demonstrate maximum efficiency and safety during flight operations.[30]

2005–2006 MED Deployment

Carrier Strike Group Two (CARSTRKGRU 2) departed from Norfolk on 1 September 2005 for its 2005 Mediterranean (MED) deployment under the command of Rear Admiral James A. Winnefeld, Jr., returning to Norfolk on 11 March 2006.[31][32]

Force composition

Units CARSTRKGRU 2 Warships Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71)
#1 USS San Jacinto (CG-56) Fighter Squadron 213 (VF-213): 10 F-14D Sea Control Squadron 24 (VS-24): 8 S-3
#2 USS Oscar Austin (DDG-79) Fighter Squadron 31 (VF-31): 12 F-14D Tomcat Helicopter Squadron 3 (HS-3): 2 HH-60H & 4 SH-60F
#3 USS Donald Cook (DDG-75) Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87): 10 F/A-18C(N) Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40), Det. 1: 2 C-2A
#4 SPS Álvaro de Bazán (F101) Strike Fighter Squadron 15 (VFA-15): 12 F/A-18C(N) Hornet –
#5 USNS Mount Baker (T-AE-34) Electronic Attack Squadron 141 (VAQ-141): 4 EA-6B –
#6 USNS Kanawha (T-AO-196) Carrier Airborne Early Warning (VAW-124): 4 E-2C 2000 NP –
Notes [31] [33][34] [33][34]

Operation Iraqi Freedom

Carrier Strike Group Two transited the Suez Canal on 27 September 2005, entering the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility, and the strike grouo subsequently relieved Carrier Strike Group Eleven led by the carrier Nimitz. On 6 October 2005, Carrier Air Wing 8 began Operation Iraqi Freedom air combat operations.[31][32][35][36] Fighter squadrons VF-213 and VF-31, along with the strike fighter squadron VFA-87 and VFA-15, attacked insurgent targets in Iraq.[36] Electronic Attack Squadron 141 (VAQ-141) operated from Al Asad, Iraq, from September 24 to October 6, 2005, flying 37 combat sorties. Sixty-three personnel from the squadron were flown from the Theodore Roosevelt in support of this mission.[36] Aircraft from Carrier Airbone Early Warning Squadron 124 (VAW-124), Sea Control Squadron 24 (VS-24), and Helicopter Squadron 3 (HS-3) flew missions in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) to help promote stability in the maritime environment.[31] CVW-8 aircraft supported Operation Steel Curtain (OSC) throughout the second week of November, conducting 5 consecutive days of strikes against terrorist targets in support of coalition troops in Iraq.[31]

On 6 February 2006, a chapter in naval aviation history drew to a close when the last Grumman F-14 Tomcat was recovered from a combat mission landed on board the Theodore Roosevelt.[31][36][37] This deployment also marked the final mission for the Navy's last two F-14 squadrons, VF-31 and VF-213, as well as the final deployment of the Lockheed S-3 Viking ASW aircraft of squadron VS-24.[31][32][37]

Carrier Strike Group Two transited the Suez Canal on 15 February 2006, completing its overseas deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.[31]

Exercises & port visits

Number Regional Exercises Port Visits Notes
Duration U.S. Force Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s) Operating Area Location Dates
1st: —- —- —- —- Palma de Mallorca, Spain 13–17 Sep. 2005 [31][38]
2nd: —- —- —- —- Naples, Italy 19–23 Sep. 2005 [31][38]
3rd: —- —- —- —- Jebel Ali, UAE 28 Dec. 2005 [38]
4th: —- —- —- —- Jebel Ali, UAE 22 Jan. 2006 [38]
5th: —- —- —- —- Souda Bay, Crete 22 Feb. 2006 [38]

2007 maintenance cycle

On 7 March 2007, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) began a nine-month Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) maintenance cycle in Norfolk, which saw the addition of RAM missiles, JP-5 (fuel system) alteration, and installation of a new electronic throttle system in the ship's propulsion plants, among other upgrades.[39] On 17 December 2007, Carrier Strike Group Two operated together for the first time since the Theodore Roosevelt completed its PIA at Norfolk Naval Shipyard three weeks earlier.[40] Joining TR were the guided-missile destroyers USS The Sullivans and USS Mason and the guided-missile cruisers USS Leyte Gulf and USS Monterey.[40]

2008–2009 Operations

Joint Task Force Exercise 08-4: Operation Brimstone

From July 21–31, 2008, Second Fleet conducted Joint Task Force Exercise 08-4 (JTFEX 08-4), code-named Operation Brimstone, in North Carolina and off the eastern U.S. coast from Virginia to Florida. It served as a ready-for-deployment certification event for Carrier Strike Group Two and the USS Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group. It also served as a Joint Task Force Capable Headquarters sustainment event for U.S. Second Fleet. The exercise also marked the first time that forces from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command participated in an East-Coast JTFEX.[41]

During the exercise Carrier Strike Group Two consisted of the carrier Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71); Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8); the guided-missile cruiser Monterey; DESRON-22 guided-missile destroyers The Sullivans, Mason, and Nitze; and the nuclear attack submarine Springfield.[41] British light aircraft carrier Ark Royal, the Brazilian frigate Greenhalgh (F-46), and the French nuclear submarine Améthyste, also participated in the exercise, with Greenhalgh being first Brazilian Navy ship to operate integrated in a U.S. strike group.[41][42]

Ships that participated in the exercise as simulated opposition forces included the guided missile cruisers San Jacinto, Normandy, and Anzio; the guided-missile destroyers Carney, Oscar Austin, and Winston S. Churchill; and the guided-missile frigate Carr.[41]

French Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft (pictired) assigned to Flottile 12F and French E-2 Hawkeye early warning aircraft assigned to Flottile 4F conducted carrier qualifications and cyclic flight operations with Carrier Air Wing 8 during the exercise, marking the first integrated U.S. and French carrier qualifications and cyclic flight operations conducted aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier.[41][42]

2008–2009 MED Deployment

On 8 September 2008, Carrier Strike Group Two departed for its regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea and the U.S. Fifth Fleet in the Persian Gulf and Arabian, returning to Norfolk on 18 April 2009 after a seven-month overseas deployment.[43][44]

Force composition

Units CARSTRKGRU 2 Warships Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71)
#1 USS Monterey (CG-61) Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VF-213): 12 F/A-18F Helicopter Squadron 3 (HS-3): 2 HH-60H & 4 SH-60F
#2 USS Nitze (DDG-94) Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87): 10 F/A-18CA+ Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40), Det. 1: 2 C-2A
#3 USS Mason (DDG-87) Fighter Squadron 31 (VF-31): 12 F/A-18F –
#4 USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) Strike Fighter Squadron 15 (VFA-15): 10 F/A-18C(N) –
#5 USS Springfield (SSN-761) Electronic Attack Squadron 141 (VAQ-141): 4 EA-6B –
#6 USNS Supply (T-AOE-6) Carrier Airborne Early Warning (VAW-124): 4 E-2C –
Notes [44] [45][46] [45][46]

Fifth Fleet operations

Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan

On 18 October 2008, CVW-8 aircraft began combat air support for Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A) from the strike group's station in the northern Arabian Sea.[43] CVW-8 aircraft flew more than 3,100 sorties into Afghanistan and dropped 59,500 pounds of ordnance while providing vital close air support to coalition forces operating as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).[43]

On 21 March 2009, Carrier Strike Group Two was relieved by Carrier Strike Group Eight, led by the carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower, and paid a 4-day port visit to Portsmouth, England, before returning home.[43][47]

Theater security cooperation

On 9 October 2008, Theodore Roosevelt and the guided missile cruiser Monterey participated in a one-day theater security cooperation (TSC) exercise with three South African warships and one French Navy warship in the Indian Ocean following a 3-day port visit to Cape Town, the first by an U.S. aircraft carrier since 1967.[43][48][49]

Aman 2009

Between 5–14 March 2009, Theodore Roosevelt, the cruiser Lake Champlain, and the Coast Guard cutter Boutwell participated in the international naval exercise Aman 2009 off the coast of Pakistan (pictured). The exercise was sponsored by the Pakistani Navy, and it included surface exercises, air-defense training, explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) exercises, and participation in foreign officer exchanges. Aman 2009 include participants from Australia, Bangladesh, China, France, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nigeria, Turkey, United States, and the United Kingdom. Also, 46 observers from naval forces of 27 countries monitored the exercise.[43][50][51]

Exercises & port visits

Number Regional Exercises Port Visits Notes
Duration U.S. Force Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s) Operating Area Location Dates
1st: 10 Oct. 2008 Carrier Strike Group Two Theater security cooperation (TSC)[Note 1] Indian Ocean Cape Town, South Africa 4–7 Oct. 2008 [43][48][49]
2nd: —- —- —- —- Jebel Ali, UAE 29 Nov. 2008 [43]
3rd: —- —- —- —- Jebel Ali, UAE 29 Jan. 2009 [43]
4th: 5–14 Mar. 2009 Theordore Roosevelt, Lake Champlain, Boutwell Aman 2009 North Arabian Sea Portsmouth, England 4 Apr. 2009 [43][47][50][52]

USS Theodore Roosevelt mid-life refueling and complex overhaul

The carrier Theodore Roosevelt began a Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH) in 29 August 2009 at Newport News Shipbuilding yard at a cost of $2.4 billion USD, with a completion date of February 2013.[42][53][54] The RCOH involves the re-fueling of the Theodore Roosevelt's two A4W nuclear reactors; extensive modernization to more than 2,300 compartments, 600 tanks, and hundreds of ship systems; and major upgrades to the flight deck, the four steam catapults, various combat systems, and the island superstructure.[55] With the Theodore Roosevelt in overhaul, the newly-commissioned carrier George H.W. Bush was assigned to Carrier Strike Group Two as its flagship, with the Bush's maiden overseas deployment scheduled for 2011.[20][21]

2010 Operations

Operation Unified Response

More than 172 sailors from Carrier Strike Group Two took part in Operation Unified Response, the relief effort for earthquaked-ravaged Haiti. Rear Admial David M. Thomas and his command staff were charged with providing the command and control to manage the movement of food, water, medical supplies and relief personnel to Haiti from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and ships operating off the coast. Thomas assumed command of Task Force 41, the U.S. Navy's sea-based element supporting JTF-Haiti, on 1 Feb 2010, after USS Carl Vinson and its strike group departed the area. The group staff alternated between being embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan and living in tents outside of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince until late March. Most of the strike group staff returned to Naval Station Norfolk by 25 March 2010 after a 70-day tour of duty, with Rear Admiral Thomas returning on 1 April 2010.[56]

Change of command

On 29 July 2010, Rear Admiral Nora W. Tyson (pictured) assumed command of the group from Captain Jeffrey Hesterman, acting strike group commander, on board the new group flagship, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush, at Naval Station Norfolk. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Gary Roughead had announced Admiral Tyson's CARSTRKGRU 2 appointment on 28 January 2010, and he attended the change of command ceremonies. Admiral Tyson became the 69th linear commander of Carrier Strike Group Two, and she also became the first woman to command a U.S. Navy carrier task group.[20][21][57]

On 20 September 2010, Admiral Tyson and her CSG-2 flag staff embarked on board the George H.W. Bush for the first time.[58] The George H.W. Bush Strike Group will conduct a series of training exercises and at-sea certifications prior to its 2011 overseas deployment.[58]

2010 training exercises

On 4 October 2010, the carrier USS George H.W. Bush departed Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, to begin its Tailored Ship's Training Availability/Final Evaluation Period (TSTA/FEP) in preparation for the ship's upcoming combat deployment in 2011.[59] TSTA is an assessment of how shipboard training is conducted with the objective to develop and enhance the crew's ability to self-train. FEP is an evaluation of the crew's ability to conduct combat missions, support air wing operations while maintaining casualty control, and survive complex casualty control situations.[59] Twenty-five inspectors from Afloat Training Group (ATG) Atlantic embarked aboard Bush, assessing the ship's damage control, medical responses, seamanship and navigation, weapons, integrated training teams, and the integration of Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8) with the ship's Air Department.[59]

On 29 October 2010, sea and air assets assigned to Carrier Strike Group Two successfully sank the decommissioned U.S. Navy combat stores ship Saturn during a sinking exercise (SINKEX) in the Atlantic Ocean 250 nautical miles (460 km; 290 mi) off the coast of North Carolina.[60] The guided-missile destroyer Mitscher; the guided-missile cruisers Philippine Sea and Gettysburg; carrier-based aircraft and helicopters from Carrier Air Wing 8; and land-based aircraft from patrol squadrons VP-10 and VP-45 participated in this exercise.[60] Also, on 3 December 2010, while conducting carrier qualifications, the carrier George H.W. Bush delivered aid to a stranded sailboat in distress approximately 90 nautical miles (170 km; 100 mi) off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.[61]

2011 Operations

2011 pre-deployment training

On 12 January 2011, the Spanish guided-missile frigate Almirante Juan De Borbón (pictured) arrived at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, prior to the warship's participation with Carrier Strike Group Two during its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) predeployment underway training cycle.[62]

Carrier Strike Group Two was certified as being combat ready on 21 February 2011 following the successful completion of its COMPTUEX and JTFEX pre-deployment training exercises.[63]

Composite Training Unit Exercise

On 19 January 2011, the group departed Naval Station Norfolk to undergo its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX), a series of training exercises and at-sea certifications prior to its 2011 overseas deployment. CARSTRKGRU 2 included the carrier George H.W. Bush and its embarked Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8); the guided-missile cruiser Anzio; the guided-missile destroyers Truxtun, Gettysburg, and Mitscher; the Spanish guided-missile frigate Almirante Juan de Borbón, and the French destroyer Primauguet.[58][64][65][66] A detachment of F/A-18C Hornet strike fighters from Fighter Squadron Composite 12 (VFC-12) was deployed to Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, to act as adversary aircraft for Carrier Air Wing Eight during its air combat training exercises.[67]

On 11 February 2011, the group completed its three-week COMPTUEX training. CARSTRKGRU 2 boarding teams performed almost 20 practice visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) evolutions, while Carrier Air Wing Eight flew 1,808 sorties for a total of 3,777 hours of flight time. Group commander Rear Admiral Tyson noted: "I am extremely proud of the George H.W. Bush Strike Group's performance during COMPTUEX. Our Strike Group and coalition team have come together and formed an effective and cohesive fighting unit."[65][68][69][70]

Joint Task Force Exercise

The group paid a call to Naval Station Mayport on 11 February and subsequently departed for its Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) pre-deployment training exercises on 14 February.[65][71] The strike group's JTFEX was supported by personnel from NATO's Headquarters Naval Striking and Support Forces (STRIKFORNATO), with representatives from Canada, Denmark, Greece, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. STRIKFORNATO was involved in this scenario-driven tactical exercise that focused on major combat operations, with its objective being to increase multilateral interoperability among allied military forces.[72] STRIKFORNATO's interest in JTFEX training cycle dates back to 2008, and this is the first time that STRIKFORNATO had participated as a component commander in a carrier strike group certification.[73]

2011 MED deployment

On 11 May 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two departed Norfolk Naval Base on its 2011 Mediterranean (MED) overseas deployment under the command of Rear Admiral Nora Tyson, with the guided-missile cruiser Gettysburg acting as the strike group's air defense coordinator.[74][75] This marked the maiden deployment for the USS George H.W. Bush and USS Truxtun, as well as the first carrier-based overseas deployment for the Boeing EA-18G electronic warfare aircraft.[74][76][77] Carrier Strike Group Two deployed to replace Carrier Strike Group Twelve, led by the supercarrier Enterprise, operating with the U.S. Fifth Fleet in the Arabian Sea.[76]

During the strike group's 2011 MED deployment, CVW-8 commander Captain Jeff Davis completed his 1,000 flight deck landing ("trap") when he flew on board the carrier George H.W. Bush on 1 August 2011.[78] CVW-8 deputy commander Captain Daniel W. Dwyer made his 1,000 trap on 18 July 2011.[79] On 23 August 2011, the carrier George H.W. Bush mades its 20,000 arrested landing while operating in the Arabian Sea during flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. This milestone was accomplished by Lt. Cmdr. Chris R. Swanson who was flying an E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 124.[80]

The strike group's flagship was host to several visiting dignitaries during its 2011 deployment. The Commander, U.S. Central Command, General James N. Mattis, USMC, visited the carrier George H.W. Bush as Carrier Strike Group Two transitted the Strait of Hormuz on 15 July 2011.[81] Rear Admiral Ted N. Branch paid a two-day visit to the carrier George H.W. Bush between 23–24 August 2011. Admiral Branch was the Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic (COMNAVAIRLANT).[82] Vice Admiral Mark Fox, Commander U.S. Fifth Fleet, was aboard the Bush during Carrier Strike Group Two's transit through the Strait of Hormuz on 30 August 2011.[83]

On 7 December 2011, Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) returned to Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia. During its 2011 MED deployment, CVW-8 aircraft completed nearly 12,000 sorties, made over 9,000 arrested landings, and logged almost 31,000 flight hours. This included 2,216 combat sorties flown in support of Operation New Dawn (OND) and Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A). Over 20 tons of ordnance were delivered in support of coalition ground forces, consisting of laser-guided bombs, GPS munitions, and 20-mm ammunition in support of coalition ground forces. Carrier Air Wing Eight also participated in joint air operations with the Royal Jordanian Air Force and the Royal Saudi Air Force during its 2011 deployment.[84]

On 8 December 2011, the guided-missile cruiser Gettysburg returned to Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and was greeted by Vice President Joe Biden.[85] On 10 December 2011, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush (pictured), the guided-missile cruiser Anzio, and the guided-missile destroyers Mitscher and Truxtun returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, completing the first overseas deployment for the Bush and Truxtun.[86][87][88][89]

Force composition

Units CARSTRKGRU 2 Warships Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77)
#1 USS Anzio (CG-68) Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VFA-213): 12 F/A-18E Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 124 (VAW-124): 4 E-2C
#2 USS Gettysburg (CG-64) Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87): 10 F/A-18A+ Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Squadron 9 (HSC-9): 7 MH-60S
#3 USS Truxtun (DDG-103) Strike Fighter Squadron 31 (VFA-31): 12 F/A-18E Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 70 (HMS-70): 11 MH-60R
#4 USS Mitscher (DDG-57) Strike Fighter Squadron 15 (VFA-15): 10 F/A-18C Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40), Det.5: 2 C-2A
#5 – Tactical Electronics Warfare Squadron 141 (VAQ-141): 4–6 EA-18G –
Notes [74] [90] [90]

Saxon Warrior '11

On 19 May 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two participated in Saxon Warrior '11, an eight-day series of NATO military exercises in the Western Approaches designed to develop theater-specific combat capabilities, as well as fostering enhance cooperation between multi-national military forces and other governmental agencies. Saxon Warrior '11 included naval forces from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden, Canada, and Spain under the overall direction of Flag Officer Sea Training.[91][92]

As part of Saxon Warrior '11, on 21 May 2011, CARSTRKGRU 2 destroyers Truxtun and Mitscher joined the U.S. replenishment tanker Leroy Grumman and the Spanish frigate Almirante Juan de Borbón in conducting a transit exercise, with the British destroyer Gloucester and frigate Westminster acting as hostile forces during this exercise.[93] This was the final deployment for Gloucester prior to its decommissioning.[92][94] Also, the guided-missile cruiser Gettysburg and the British destroyer Dauntless conducted joint air defense exercises (pictured).[95]

Following Saxon Warrior '11, Carrier Strike Group Two paid a port visit to Portsmouth on 27 May 2011, with the carrier George H.W. Bush anchoring in Stokes Bay, Gosport, because her draft was too deep to enter the harbor.[92][96] This was the first foreign port call by the George H.W. Bush and the destroyer Truxtun.[97]

Sixth Fleet operations

On 16 May 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two entered into the U.S. Sixth Fleet's area of responsibility (AOR), officially changing operational control for the strike group from the U.S. Second Fleet to the Mediterranean-based Sixth Fleet.[98] On 21 May 2001, the guided-missile cruiser Anzio transited the Strait of Gibraltar, entering the Sixth Fleet's AOR.[99] On 5 June 2011, the carrier George H.W. Bush, guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, guided-missile destroyer Truxtun, and the Spanish frigate Almirante Juan de Borbón transited the Strait of Gibraltar and entered the Mediterranean.[100]

On 20 November 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two transited from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal and re-entered the U.S. Sixth Fleet's AOR. The strike group conducted a full range of maritime and theater security cooperation operations in the Mediterranean Sea while its flagship, the carrier George H.W. Bush, made its seventh scheduled port visit while making its return to Norfolk.[101][102][103] Also, a Reuters dispatch reported Carrier Strike Group Two operating off the coast of Syria to monitor the ongoing internal conflict in that country, with an unamed Western diplomat in the region noting: "It is probably routine movement. But it is going to put psychological pressure on the regime, and the Americans don’t mind that."[104]

Sea Breeze 2011

Air, land, and naval forces from Azerbaijan, Algeria, Belgium, Denmark, Georgia, Germany, Macedonia, Moldova, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States participated in Sea Breeze 2001, the largest multi-national maritime exercise held in the Black Sea (pictured).[105] Sea Breeze 2001 was co-hosted by the Ukrainian and U.S. navies, and the exercise included counter-piracy training operations, non-combatant evacuation operations, and visit, board, search and seizure training. Additionally, ground forces conducted non-lethal weapons training designed to combat unlawful fishing, piracy, trafficking in persons, drugs, and illegal weapons.[105]

The opening ceremony were held on 6 June 2011, and it was followed by a press conference and an evening reception aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio.[105][106] On 8 June 2011, Danish, Ukrainian, and U.S. Navy divers conducted joint dive evolutions at the Ukrainian Western Naval Base.[107] On 11 June 2011, Marines from Denmark, Macedonia, Moldova, Ukraine, and the United States demonstrated a variety of land-based countermeasure operations including convoy operations, counter improvised explosive device procedures, counter attack techniques, vehicle checkpoint protocol, non-lethal combat techniques. and medical evacuation procedures.[108] Closing ceremonies were held at the Ukrainian Officer's Club in Odessa on 18 June 2011.[109]

Fifth Fleet operations

On 21 June 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two relieved Carrier Strike Group Twelve, led by the carrier Enterprise, in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, with Enterprise departing after a four-and-a-half month deployment with the U.S. Fifth Fleet.[110]

Beginning 23 July 2011, the strike group's anti-pracy capabilities was augmented by the addition of a U.S. Coast Guard 12-person Advanced Interdiction Team (AIT) embarked aboard the guided-missile destroyer Mitscher. These deployable Coast Guard boarding teams consisted of highly trained maritime law enforcement specialists capable of Level III non-compliant boardings. As the only organization in the U.S. government with the combined authority of a law enforcement agency, an intelligence agency, and a military service, the AIT unit provided additional capabilities and expertise to Mitscher's embarked visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team. Mitscher's VBSS team and the AIT trained together between operations to enhance their joint boarding tactics, boat operation skills, and internal movements.[111]

On 13 August 2011, as part of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150) operating in the Gulf of Aden, the guided-missile destroyer Mitscher provided assistance the Sri Lankan-flagged cargo vessel Al Habib which was experiencing engineering problems and running low on water. Mitscher's VBSS-AIT boarding party transported supplies to the Al Habib via rigid-hulled inflatable boat, including two 3-gallon (11.36 liters) containers of water and four cases of bottled water (pictured).[112][113]

After departing Djibouti on 1 July 2011, the guided-missile cruiser Anzio (pictured) conducted counter-piracy and maritime security operations as a unit of the Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) before paying a goodwill visit to Port Victoria in the Seychelles on 18 August 2011.[106]

On 13 October 2011, the carrier George H.W. Bush paid a port visit to Jebel Ali, UAE, prior to departing the U.S. Central Command's area of operations.[114] On 3 November 2011, thirteen U.S. sailors from the destroyer Mitscher and nine Pakistani sailors from Pakistani Navy destroyer PNS Shah Jahan (D186) participated in an exchange program between the two warships which included a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise.[115]

On 20 November 2011, Carrier Strike Group Two re-entered U.S. Sixth Fleet AOR, completing its five-month deployment to the U.S. Fifth Fleet after being relieved by Carrier Strike Group Three led by its flagship, the carrier John C. Stennis.[101] During its deployment with the U.S. Fifth Fleet, Carrier Strike Group Two flew over 2200 combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A) and Operation New Dawn (OND).[116]

Exercises & port visits

Number Regional Exercises Port Visits Notes
Duration U.S. Force Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s) Operating Area Location Dates
1st: 19–26 May 2011 Carrier Strike Group Two Saxon Warrior '11: NATO Western Approaches Portsmouth, UK 27 May 2011 [91][92]
2nd: –- George H.W. Bush Almirante Juan de Borbón –- Cartagena, Spain 6–9 Jun. 2011 [114][117]
3rd: –- Mitscher –- –- Durrës, Albania 3–6 Jun. 2011 [113][118]
4th: –- Gettysburg –- –- Benidorm, Spain 6–9 Jun. 2011 [119]
5th: –- Anzio –- –- Odessa, Ukraine 3–6 Jun. 2011 [120]
6th: 6-18 Jun. 2011 Anzio Sea Breeze 2011 Black Sea Batumi, Georgia 9–12 Jun. 2011 [105][106][109]
7th: 6-10 Jun. 2011 Mitscher Partnership of Adriatic Mariners (PAM) Adriatic Sea Bar, Montenegro 10–15 Jun. 2011 [113][121]
8th: –- Truxtun –- –- Limassol, Cyprus 10–13 Jun. 2011 [122]
9th –- George H.W. Bush, Gettysburg –- –- Naples, Italy 11–14 Jun. 2011 [114][123][124][125]
10th: –- Truxtun –- –- Haifa, Israel 15–16 Jun. 2011 [126]
11th: –- Truxtun –- –- Djibouti 26 Jun. 2011 [127]
12th: –- Carrier Strike Group Two –- –- Al Hidd, Bahrain 10–14 Jul. 2011 [114][128]
13th: -- Truxtun -- -- Manama, Bahrain 25 Jul. - 13 Aug. 2011 [127]
14th: 1 Jul. to 18 Aug. 2011 Anzio Combined Task Force 151 Gulf of Aden Victoria, Seychelles 18 Aug. 2011 [106]
15th: -- George H.W. Bush -- -- Jebel Ali, UAE 31 Aug. - 4 Sep. 2011 [114][129]
16th: -- Gettysburg -- -- Manama, Bahrain 31 Aug. - 6 Sep. 2011 [130]
17th: -- Anzio -- -- Manama, Bahrain 29 Sep. 2011 [106][131]
18th: -- Mitscher -- -- Manama, Bahrain 29 Sep. - 4 Oct. 2011 [113][132]
19th: -- Truxtun -- -- Manama, Bahrain 30 Sep. 2011 [127]
20th: -- George H.W. Bush -- -- Jebel Ali, UAE 31 Oct. 2011 [114]
21th: 3 Nov. 2011 Mitscher Pakistani Navy: Shah Jahan Arabian Sea Lisbon, Portugal 23 Nov. 2011 [115][133]
22nd: -- Truxtun -- -- Civitavecchia, Italy 23 Nov. 2011 [134]
23rd: -- Anzio -- -- Palma de Mallorca, Spain 24–27 Nov. 2011 [135][136]
24th: -- George H.W. Bush -- -- Marseille, France 25 Nov. 2011 [103]

See also

United States Navy portal
Military of the United States portal

Notes

Footnotes
  1. ^ South African Navy frigate SAS Isandlwana (F146), oiler SAS Drakensburg (A301), patrol boat SAS Isaac Dyobia (P1565), and the French Navy frigate Floreal (F730).
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  75. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Betsy Lynn Knapper, USN (May 12, 2011). "USS Gettysburg Deploys with George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group". NNS110512-19. USS Gettysburg Public Affair. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60318. Retrieved May 13, 2011. 
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  77. ^ Jacobs, Jan C. (May 2011). "U.S. Naval Aviation and Weapons Development in Review". Naval Institute Processings 137 (5): 79. ISSN 0041-798X. http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-05/us-naval-aviation-and-weapons-development-review. Retrieved May 9, 2011. "Registration required." 
  78. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Timothy Walter, USN (August 3, 2011). "Commander, CVW 8 completes 1,000th trap". NNS110803-07. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61954. Retrieved August 15, 2011. 
  79. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jessica Echerri, USN (July 21, 2011). "Navy Pilot Completes 1,000th Trap". NNS110721-03. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61696. Retrieved August 15, 2011. 
  80. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Timothy Walter, USN (August 24, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Completes 20,000th Arrested Landing". NNS110824-20. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62360. Retrieved 2011-08-25. 
  81. ^ "Commander, US Central Command Visits George H.W. Bush". Release #079-11. U.S. Naval Central Command Public Affairs. July 15, 2011. http://www.cusnc.navy.mil/articles/2011/079.html. Retrieved July 19, 2011. 
  82. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Greg Wilhelmi, USN (August 25, 2011). "Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic visits USS George H.W. Bush". NNS110825-17. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62390. Retrieved 2011-08-26. 
  83. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Timothy Walter, USN (September 2, 2011). "5th Fleet Commander Visits USS George H.W. Bush". NNS110902-18. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62555. Retrieved 2011-09-02. 
  84. ^ "Carrier Air Wing Eight returns home". News - Military. WAVY-TV. December 7, 2011. http://www.wavy.com/dpp/military/carrier-air-wing-eight-to-return-home. Retrieved 2011-12-08. 
  85. ^ Elaine Sanchez (December 8, 2011). "Biden Welcomes Sailors Home From Deployment". American Forces Press Service. U.S. DePartment of Defense. http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=66403. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  86. ^ "USS George H.W. Bush Returns from First Deployment". NNS111210-07. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. December 10, 2011. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64289. Retrieved 2011-12-12. 
  87. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (December 10, 2011). "USS Anzio Returns Home from Deployment". NNS111210-04. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64311. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  88. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (December 10, 2011). "USS Mitscher Returns to Homeport". NNS111210-03. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64310. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
  89. ^ Kate Wiltrout (December 6, 2011). "Carrier Bush, strike group to return Saturday". Home - Military. The Virginian-Pilot. http://hamptonroads.com/2011/12/carrier-bush-strike-group-return-saturday. Retrieved 2011-12-13. 
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  91. ^ a b Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Walter, USN (May 21, 2011). "George H.W. Bush Strike Group Participates in Saxon Warrior". NNS110521-06. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60543. Retrieved May 23, 2011. 
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  93. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (May 23, 2011). "USS Mitscher, Truxtun Participate in Coalition Strait Transit Exercise". NNS110523-02. USS Mitscher (DDG-57) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60552. Retrieved May 23, 2011. 
  94. ^ "Final trip for HMS Gloucester after Falklands’ duties and Saxon Warrior exercise". Current Edition. MercoPress. May 24, 2011. http://en.mercopress.com/2011/05/23/final-trip-for-hms-gloucester-after-falklands-duties-and-saxon-warrior-exercise. Retrieved May 24, 2011. 
  95. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Betsy Lynn Knapper, USN (May 24, 2011). "Gettysburg Participates in Saxon Warrior". NNS110524-12. USS Gettysburg Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/print.asp?story_id=60577&VIRIN=101290&imagetype=1&page=1. Retrieved May 24, 2011. 
  96. ^ "The Yanks are coming!". The News. May 25, 2011. http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/local/east-hampshire. Retrieved May 25, 2011. 
  97. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Timothy Walter, USN (May 27, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Visits First Overseas Port". NNS110527-02. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60652. Retrieved February 28, 2011. 
  98. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sandi Grimnes, USN (May 17, 2011). "George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group enters 6th Fleet". NNS110517-14. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60435. Retrieved May 18, 2011. 
  99. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (May 21, 2011). "USS Anzio Transits Strait of Gibraltar". NNS110523-04. USS Anzio (CG-68) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60557. Retrieved May 23, 2011. 
  100. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter, USN (June 9, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Transits Strait of Gibraltar, Enters Mediterranean Sea". NNS110609-10. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60905. Retrieved June 30, 2011. 
  101. ^ a b Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW/AW) Greg Wilhelmi, USN (November 20, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Arrives in 6th Fleet". NNS111120-05. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. 
  102. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (November 21, 2011). "USS Anzio Enters U.S. 6th Fleet and Begins Journey Home". NNS111121-04. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63936. Retrieved 2011-11-24. 
  103. ^ a b Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW/AW) Gregory Wilhelmi, USN (November 25, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Visits Marseille, France". NNS111125-02. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64014. Retrieved 2011-11-25. 
  104. ^ Dina Zayed and Ayman Samir (November 24, 2011). "Arab League gives Syria one day to allow monitors before imposing sanctions". News - Reuter. National Post. http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/11/24/arab-league-gives-syria-one-day-to-allow-monitors-before-imposing-sanctions/. Retrieved 2011-11-26. 
  105. ^ a b c d Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak, USN (June 6, 2011). "U.S., Ukraine Kick Off Sea Breeze 2011". NNS110606-29. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60839. Retrieved 2011-09-08. 
  106. ^ a b c d e "USS Anzio (CG-68)". 2011 History. U.S.Carrier.net. September 8, 2011. http://www.uscarriers.net/cg68history.htm. Retrieved 2011-09-08. 
  107. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak, USN (June 8, 2011). "Denmark, Ukraine, and U.S. Dive into Sea Breeze 2011". NNS110608-27. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60891. Retrieved 2011-09-08. 
  108. ^ Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak, USN. "U.S. Navy, Multinational Partners Host Demonstration During Sea Breeze 2011". NNS110613-01. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60977. Retrieved 2011-09-08. 
  109. ^ a b Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Oleksiak (June 18, 2011). "Sea Breeze 2011 Comes to a Close". NNS110618-14. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61116. Retrieved 2011-09-08. 
  110. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase, USN (June 26, 2011). "Enterprise, Bush Run Unique Pass in Red Sea". Navy News. Military.com. http://www.military.com/news/article/navy-news/enterprise-bush-run-unique-pass-in-red-sea.html. Retrieved June 27, 2011. 
  111. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (August 15, 2011). "Mitscher, Coast Guard Team Up to Fight Piracy". NNS110815-13. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62169. Retrieved 2011-08-16. 
  112. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (August 22, 2011). "Combined Maritime Forces' USS Mitscher Assists Vessel in Distress". NNS110822-04. USS Mitscher (DDG-57) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62298. Retrieved 2011-08-23. 
  113. ^ a b c d "USS Mitscher (DDG-57)". 2011 History. U.S.Carrier.net. September 88, 2011. http://www.uscarriers.net/ddg57history.htm. Retrieved 2011-09-29. 
  114. ^ a b c d e f "USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77)". 2011 History. USCarrier.net. October 15, 2011. http://www.uscarriers.net/cvn77history.htm. Retrieved 2009-04-20. 
  115. ^ a b Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (November 14, 2011). "US, Pakistan Navy Conduct Personnel Exchange". NNS111114-05. USS Mitscher Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63820. Retrieved 2011-11-20. 
  116. ^ Donna Miles (December 2, 2011). "Vice Chairman Honors Legacy of Naval Aviation". American Forces Press Service. U.S. Department of Defense. http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=66325. Retrieved 2011-12-02. 
  117. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter, USN (June 7, 2011). "Bush Makes Port Visit to Spain". NNS110607-06. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60850. Retrieved April 20, 2009. 
  118. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN. "USS Mitscher Completes Successful Port Call in Albania". NNS110610-09. USS Mitscher (DDG-57) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60940. Retrieved June 10, 2011. 
  119. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Lynn Knapper, USN (June 10, 2011). "Gettysburg Departs Benidorm, Spain after Successful Port Visit". NNS110610-12. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60944. Retrieved June 10, 2011. 
  120. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (June 16, 2011). "USS Anzio Departs Georgia". NNS110616-03. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61051. Retrieved June 22, 2011. 
  121. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (June 16, 2011). "Mitscher Concludes Exercise, Visit to Montenegro". NNS110616-12. USS Mitscher Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61057. Retrieved June 22, 2011. 
  122. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin J. Steinberg, USN (June 16, 2011). "Truxtun Sailors Experience History, Culture of Cyprus". NNS110616-04. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61052. Retrieved June 22, 2011. 
  123. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jessica Echerri, USN (June 11, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Visits Naples, Italy". NNS110611-13. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60968. Retrieved June 13, 2011. 
  124. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Derrik Noack, USN (June 15, 2011). "USS George H.W. Bush Completes Italy Port Visit". NNS110615-21. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61025. Retrieved June 15, 2011. 
  125. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Lynn Knapper, USN (June 16, 2011). "USS Gettysburg Departs Italy". NNS110616-05. USS Gettysburg (CG-64) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61053. Retrieved June 22, 2011. 
  126. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin J. Steinberg, USN (June 17, 2011). "Truxtun Departs Israel after Port Visit". NNS110617-13. USS Truxtun (DDG-103) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61084. Retrieved June 22, 2011. 
  127. ^ a b c "USS Truxtun DDG-103". 2011 History. U.S.Carrier.net. August 26, 2011. http://www.uscarriers.net/ddg103history.htm. Retrieved 2011-08-26. 
  128. ^ Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jessica Echerri, USN (July 19, 2011). "George H.W. Bush Departs Bahrain, Returns to Sea". NNS110719-11. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61659. Retrieved July 23, 2011. 
  129. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter, USN (September 11, 2011). "Bush Completes First Port Visit To Jebel Ali". NNS110911-04. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62678. Retrieved 2011-09-11. 
  130. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Lynn Knapper, USN (September 9, 2011). "Gettysburg Departs Bahrain". NNS110919-05. USS Gettysburg (CG-64) Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=62808. Retrieved 2011-09-20. 
  131. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (October 6, 2011). "Anzio Sailors Volunteer in Bahrain". NNS111006-03. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63118. Retrieved 2011-10-25. 
  132. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (October 16, 2001). "USS Mitscher Departs Bahrain". NNS111016-04. USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63285. Retrieved 2011-10-25. 
  133. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN (November 23, 2011). "USS Mitscher Pulls Into Lisbon". NNS111123-11. USS Mitscher Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63993. Retrieved 2011-11-24. 
  134. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Tony D. Curtis, USN (November 23, 2011). "USS Truxtun Arrives in Civitavecchia". NNS111123-08. USS Truxtun Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63985. Retrieved 2011-11-24. 
  135. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (November 25, 2011). "USS Anzio Makes Port Visit to Palma de Mallorca". NNS111125-03. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64010. Retrieved 2011-11-24. 
  136. ^ Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN (November 28, 2011). "USS Anzio Departs Palma de Mallorca". NNS111128-06. USS Anzio Public Affairs. http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=64043. Retrieved 2012-12-03. 

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