John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group Visits Thailand

LAEM CHABANG, Thailand (NNS) -- John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) arrived in Laem Chabang, Thailand April 9 for a scheduled port visit during its western Pacific Ocean deployment.

The strike group supports maritime security in the region and promotes regional partnerships through joint operations and community service projects during port visits with host nations.

"We appreciate the people of Thailand allowing us to visit this beautiful port," said Rear Adm. Mark Vance, commander, Carrier Strike Group 3. "Our Sailors are looking forward to the opportunity to explore this magnificent region."

The Maritime Strategy focuses on joint and international partnerships across a range of operations through forward presence, deterrence, freedom of the world's sea lanes, maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

JCSCSG includes Carrier Air Wing 9, comprising Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 8, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, VFA 154, VFA 146, Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 323, Electronic Warfare Squadron 138, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 112 and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30. JCSCSG also includes ships from Destroyer Squadron 21, including the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Kidd (DDG 100) and USS Preble (DDG 88) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54).