Three Navy carriers in port at Norva

NORFOLK (May 8, 2017) The aircraft carriers USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), pre-commissioning unit aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS George Washington (CVN 73) sit pierside at Naval Station Norfolk. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dartez C. Williams/Released)

TRAWING 1 Conducting CARQUALS aboard USS George Washington

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Raheem Malloy, from Greensboro, N.C., clears the catapult to launch a T-45C Goshawk assigned to Training Air Wing (TRAWING) 1 on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, homeported in Norfolk, is underway conducting carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Mai/Released)

Navy Aircraft Carrier Moves Underscore Pacific Rebalance Strategy

The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) transits toward the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) prior to an ammunition off-load. George Washington and its embarked carrier air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of the U.S. its partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian H. Abel/Released)

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy announced today that the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) will replace USS George Washington (CVN 73) in Japan and become part of the U.S. 7th Fleet forward-deployed naval forces (FDNF) in Yokosuka, Japan. As part of the rebalance strategy to increase the Navy's presence in the Pacific Fleet, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) will move from Norfolk, Va., to San Diego.

Theodore Roosevelt will serve as a U.S. 3rd Fleet rotational carrier allowing Ronald Reagan to depart her current homeport in San Diego and proceed to Yokosuka. George Washington will depart Japan and proceed to Virginia in preparation for its mid-life refueling complex overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding, Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Specific timelines will be announced separately, closer to the actual movement of the carriers.

The United States values Japan's contributions to the peace, security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific and its long-term commitment and hospitality in hosting U.S. forces forward deployed there. These forces, along with their counterparts in the Japan Self-Defense Forces, make up the core capabilities needed by the alliance to meet our common strategic objectives.

The security environment in the Indo-Asia-Pacific requires that the U.S. Navy station the most capable ships forward. This posture allows the most rapid response times possible for maritime and joint forces, and brings our most capable ships with the greatest amount of striking power and operational capability to bear in the timeliest manner.

The ship rotation will not necessitate a change in the assigned air wing, nor in the composition of the air wing. Carrier Air Wing Five will remain the forward-deployed air wing located at Naval Air Facility Atsugi. This ship rotation also does not necessitate any changes to base facilities in either San Diego or Yokosuka.

In 2008, George Washington was the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier sent to Japan as part of the FDNF. Maintaining an FDNF capability supports the United States' commitment to the defense of Japan and the security and stability of the vital Indo-Asia-Pacific.

#Warfighting: USS George Washington Conducts Replenishment At Sea

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class William Pittman, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) conducted a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3), Oct. 5.

George Washington received more than 200 pallets of supplies during the RAS, allowing the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group to continue its mission of providing a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Asia-Pacific region.

"The ability to replenish our supplies while at sea allows us to keep an at sea forward presence," said Cmdr. Sean Egge, George Washington's supply officer. "We can sustain underway operations for an extended period of time because of this capability."
George Washington also offloaded several pallets, including supplies designated for the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48), which has been independently steaming in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

Helicopters attached to the 'Chargers' of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14 delivered pallets of supplies from Alan Shepard to George Washington via vertical replenishment.

"We have a system, where nearby ships can send a message to all U.S. forces close by asking for a particular material," said Egge. "We had the needed supplies and we were the closest ship, so we gave it to Vandegrift."

Ships and aircraft of the George Washington and John C. Stennis carrier strike groups are currently exercising to hone their collective interoperability, readiness, and the capability to respond quickly to potential crises in the region, ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance missions. As two of the Navy's 11 global force carrier strike groups, the strike groups are further ensuring security, stability and peace in the vital Asia-Pacific region.

GW Kicks Off Sea Trials

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kaitlyn R. Breitkreutz, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, May 12 to conduct sea trials in preparation for the ship's next patrol.

George Washington sailed from its Truman Bay pier into open waters to begin a certification process that will ensure the ship, its equipment and crew are ready for extended periods at sea.

"We're ready to execute sea trials," said Capt. David A. Lausman, George Washington's commanding officer. "This is an all hands evolution and we have the most professional Sailors who thrive on 'by the book with the book open' operations. They will execute the mission meticulously."

After working alongside craftsmen from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Ship Repair Facility Yokosuka to complete routine maintenance to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, Sailors will now put the ship through a series of tests before going underway.

"This is an exciting day," said Cmdr. Wes McCall, George Washington's navigator. "It's been six months since we were last underway so it's great to be heading back out where we belong."

Before leaving port, crew members participated in two simulated days at sea to begin the testing period and to get in the right mind set for the anticipated patrol. In 2011, George Washington safely navigated 55,000 nautical miles across the western Pacific.

Sea trials will test every system, every procedure and every piece of equipment. Tests will include opening and closing hangar bay doors, raising and lowering aircraft elevators, testing internal and external communication systems, as well completing each department's unique check-off list to ensure mission readiness.

"This is an important time for us," said Chief Warrant Officer Chris Sullivan. "It's our time to prepare and make sure all our equipment is 100% ready to support the ship's mission."

George Washington's permanently-forward presence and mission enhances security and stability throughout the Western Pacific by working with our allies and regional partners on a wide range of issues and responding to any tasking across the operational spectrum as directed.

George Washington is the flagship of the George Washington Strike Group.

Navy Pic of the Day - F/A-18 Hornet Launch on GW

An F/A-18 Hornet prepares to launch from the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington is in the waters west of the Korean peninsula preparing for a training exercise with the Republic of Korea Navy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Marcus D. Mince/Released)

George Washington Strike Group Arrives in Singapore

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Devon Dow, USS George Washington Public Affairs

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73), with her combined crew of more than 5,000 Sailors, along with USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) arrived in Singapore Aug. 11.

GW's crew will have the opportunity to enjoy visiting one of the world's most vibrant city-states, while fostering friendship and cultural relations.

Capt. David A. Lausman, GW's commanding officer, said he expects his crew's visit to Singapore to be a memorable and unique experience.

"This is a beautiful city; a great city to visit as a Sailor. I've been here several times during my naval career and Singapore keeps getting better and better. Coming to places like this is why many of our Sailors joined the Navy, to see the world," said Lausman.

While in Singapore, more than 260 GW Sailors have signed up to volunteer their time to support activities that generate goodwill between U.S. Sailors and their Singaporean hosts. A total of 13 different community service (COMSERV) projects are scheduled from Aug. 12-13, according to Lt. Benjamin Howard, a GW chaplain and one of the ship's COMSERV coordinators.

"Volunteering helps the GW form good partnerships and relations with other countries beyond just the military partnership. The host country gets to see the U.S. in action as their friend, trying to improve their communities and in small ways and better the lives of people in their communities," he said.

In addition to interacting with the locals, Sailors have signed up to participate in landscaping, cleaning and maintenance projects for a variety of Singapore-based organizations such as the Singapore Children's Society Sunbeam Place, the Genesis School for Special Education and the Asian Women's Welfare Association.

Other GW Sailors plan to make the most of their time in Singapore with one of eight different tours organized by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) division. These tours include a "night safari" at the Singapore Zoo and rides on the Singapore Flyer, which at 165 meters high is said to be the world's tallest Ferris wheel.

GW is commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group (CSG), which is commanded by Rear Adm. Dan Cloyd. The GW CSG includes Carrier Air Wing 5, Destroyer Squadron 15, and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

USS George Washington to Visit Republic of Korea

By Special to American Forces Press Service

BUSAN, Republic of Korea, July 18, 2010 - USS George Washington, the U.S. Navy's only permanently, forward-deployed aircraft carrier, will visit the Korean port of Busan July 21-25, 2010, officials at U.S. Forces Korea announced today.

In addition to USS George Washington, three destroyers from its strike group will also visit Korean ports. USS McCampbell and USS John S. McCain will visit Busan, and USS Lassen will visit Chinhae.

"The U.S. Navy maintains a robust forward presence in the Asia-Pacific region and the people of the Republic of Korea are our good friends and allies," said George Washington commanding officer Capt. David Lausman. "Our presence here is a testament to the strength of our alliance and our constant readiness to defend the Republic of Korea."

While in Busan, the George Washington will host a reception for distinguished members of the community, and will conduct a number of guided tours of the 97,000-ton aircraft carrier.

"For more than 60 years, we have maintained a strong alliance with the Republic of Korea," said Lausman. "My crew is thrilled with the opportunity to interact with the Korean people and show them their incredible level of pride and professionalism."

While in port about 300 George Washington sailors will volunteer their time to landscape a home for the elderly, visit an orphanage and help make repairs at a local school.

"These deeds are a small token of goodwill on our part towards Korea and lets them know we care," said George Washington Chaplain Cmdr. Brian Haley. "This is also character building for our sailors, so I think this is really a win-win opportunity for them and us."

The George Washington departed its forward operating base of Yokosuka, Japan, on July 9. The ship last visited Busan in October 2008.

GW Completes Undersea Warfare Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Devon Dow, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) participated in Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX) with U.S. and Japanese naval forces in the western Pacific Ocean June 21 to 25.

The exercise was conducted by elements from Commander, Battle Force 7th Fleet (CTF 70), Commander, Patrol & Reconnaissance Force, 7th Fleet (CTF 72), Commander, Submarine Force, 7th Fleet (CTF 74), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and components from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The exercise focused on training and coordination of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) efforts between the maritime partners.

"This year during USWEX we continued to strengthen interoperability between the U.S. Navy and the JMSDF and trained against tactics, techniques and procedures to develop new concepts in ASW," said Lt. Justin Santos, a surface operations officer for DESRON 15. "Throughout this exercise, I believe everyone involved has executed in a professional manner and to the best of their expertise."

During the exercise, GW and JMSDF Sailors, who were embarked aboard GW during USWEX, were tasked with locating, tracking and completing simulated engagements with allied submarines in their vicinity.

Santos said that working with the JMSDF provided unique opportunities for all involved to learn from one another, furthering the U.S.-Japan relationship, and show how they can further their joint operational efforts.

"During USWEX we were afforded the opportunity of working side by side with our JMSDF counterparts on board GW," he said. "They were standing watch during the exercise in the same spaces we were and holding briefs throughout the day alongside us as well. Having them on board was a benefit to the success of this exercise."

Lt. Masanobu Kanamori, Undersea Warfare Staff escort for JMSDF's Flotilla 2, is one of the many JMSDF Sailors who has been on board during the exercise. He said while he was taken back by the enormity of the ship, and the sights and sounds of the flight deck, working, eating, and living on the GW contributed to the overall experience of USWEX.

"This has been a very big exercise and a great experience for me," he said. "I enjoyed being on board GW and working with the U.S. Navy Sailors. I learned a lot."

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation. Santos said he is optimistic about the two countries relationship in the present and the future.

"Our alliance with Japan demonstrates the strength in our commitment to one another and our ability to work together," he said. "This exercise is an example of just how strong our alliance really is."

GW Starts Sea Trials, Completes SRA

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, May 11 to conduct sea trials in preparation for the ship's upcoming summer deployment.

GW steamed from its Truman Bay pier into open waters to begin a certification process that will ensure the ship, its equipment and crew are ready for extended periods at sea.

As the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, GW gets roughly half the time of other ships to test its integrity, radars, communications, and engines.

"Typically, aircraft carriers conduct work-ups for 6 months to complete extensive operational tests prior to deployment, but since we are a part of the permanently Forward-Deployed Naval Forces, we have to be ready in a shorter period of time because we are the first carrier to respond to a crisis in 7th Fleet," said Cmdr. Pete Mantz, GW navigator.

"We have a very hectic and aggressive schedule in front of us," added Mantz, who said sea trials started as soon as the ship pulled in all lines.

"One of the basic things we must accomplish is getting away from the pier and navigating through the channel," he said. "After that, we can get to sea and focus on testing other areas."

Getting GW ready for its short shakedown cruise was the culmination of a four-month Selective Restricted Availability (SRA) performed by the ship's 3,000 Sailors, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard workers, and Japanese shipyard workers from Sumitomo Heavy Industries and the Ship's Repair Facility at Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

During this time, multiple repairs and upgrades were made to operational systems and GW's 3,360 spaces. Specific repairs included upgrades, corrective and preventative maintenance to air-conditioning units, fire fighting systems, aircraft elevators, navigation systems, and crew habitability spaces.

The renovations improved the crew's quality of life through the complete overhaul of six living quarters, called berthings.

"We take habitability issues seriously because having a better place to live boosts crew morale for obvious reasons," said Master Chief Damage Controlman (SW/AW) Daniel Buschemi, who oversaw the revamping of berthings that still had the Nimitz-class carriers' original 1960s design.

"I served on USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the '80s and walking into some of our berthings was like going back in time," said the 30-year Sailor Buschemi. "It was nice to give our people redesigned berthings with new bunks, lockers and decks."

GW's 1,092-foot flight deck also received a makeover during the SRA. The abrasive non-skid coating found on the entire surface of the flight deck and hangar bay saw extensive repair as large areas were completely chipped off and replaced to provide a functional area to launch and recover aircraft.

"We have anywhere between 7,000 to 8,000 [aircraft launch and recoveries] a year. The wear-and-tear of this requires us to redo the flight deck in port for safety reasons," said Cmdr. Stephen Blasch, GW's assistant air officer.

Blasch added two of the ship's aircraft catapults received complete overhauls, which also required removing them from the deck to clean their troughs.

"I'm extremely proud of our Sailors," said Blasch about the work done during the SRA. "They juggled a lot of balls between running drills and maintenance, but they came through and got us ready to head to sea."

Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, GW is the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, which is commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan.

The strike group is also comprised of Destroyer Squadron 15, the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63) and Carrier Air Wing 5.

George Washington Stays Mission-Ready with MISSILEX

A NATO sea sparrow missile is launched from the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) to intercept a Tactical Air-Launched Decoy during surface-to-air defense training. George Washington is underway supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Rachel N. Hatch/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) successfully completed a test of its NATO Sea Sparrow Missile System (NSSMS) during an at-sea missile exercise (MISSLEX) Nov. 8.

George Washington launched the defensive, surface-to-air missile at an unmanned Tactical Air-Launched Decoy (TALD) during the training exercise, aimed at keeping the ship's weapons systems mission-ready.

"To launch a missile, GW (George Washington) has to meet a lot of operational requirements and it's not something we can do every day," said GW Combat Direction Center Officer Cmdr. Peter Walczak. "The ship was in a situation where we could have this training opportunity and we jumped at it."

The MISSILEX was based on a real-life scenario, which involved a simulated enemy aircraft flying a direct route to the ship.

"MISSILEXs are thoroughly planned and we treat them as an actual evolution," Walczak said. "The missile fired would have been the same one used in a real situation."

Although it takes mere seconds for the missile to actually launch, hours of precautionary checks are involved prior to a MISSILEX.

"The FC's (fire controlman) job is to make sure the shipboard defense systems works properly, so we have to take every step necessary to make sure all safety checks have been made," said Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW/AW) Keith Simpson, GW's NSSMS leading petty officer.

According to Simpson, MISSILEX first involves a simulated firing scenario, in which a computer ensures the missile will follow its desired path. Then, the launcher itself is checked to see that it has the ability to follow the target.

While FC's play a critical role in a MISSILEX, teamwork between departments made the evolution possible.

"Nothing is autonomous on GW. Some of the Sailors involved were in Operations Department, while others were in Combat Systems Department," Walczak said. "But, by sharing information we worked in conjunction to make sure the mission was accomplished successfully."

GW is currently participating in ANNUALEX 21G, a yearly, bilateral exercise between the U.S. military and the Japan Self Defense Force.

Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, GW is the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GW CSG), which is commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan. GW departed its forward-deployed port of Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan Oct. 6 on its second fall deployment as the Navy's forward-deployed carrier presence.

VFA-195 Operating from the USS George Washington

An F/A-18C Hornet, from the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, executes a touch and go during an air demonstration aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, hosted a family and guest cruise after returning from her inaugural summer deployment supporting security and stability in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Marcos Vazquez/Released)

George Washington CSG Departs Japan on First Summer Deployment

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The Carrier Strike Group centered around the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (CVN 73), departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan for its first annual summer deployment June 10.

Commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin Donegan, the George Washington Carrier Strike Group with more than 5,000 Sailors, is also comprised of 7th Fleet's Forward Deployed Naval Forces veterans: Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5; Destroyer Squadron 15 and the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

George Washington, commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, replaced the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) last September as the flagship for the permanently forward deployed carrier strike group.

"This deployment is the culmination of a tremendous team effort that first executed the historic transition to Yokosuka, and then flawlessly completed the four-month selective restricted availability," said Lausman.

George Washington Carrier Strike Group has been underway for most of the past month, completing sea trials, carrier qualifications, and a Combat Operations Efficiency evaluation with embarked CVW 5 following the conclusion of the George Washington's first Japan-based Selective Restricted Availability earlier this year.

The ship and crew returned to its forward-deployed port of Yokosuka June 5 for a few days of rest after a 17-day at-sea period, and are now operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

"Our main focus for this deployment is enhancing stability throughout the region by our underway presence," said Lausman. "The cornerstone of this is the CNO's [chief of naval operations] Global Maritime Partnerships; throughout this deployment we have the unique opportunity to work closely with many of our Pacific Rim coalition partners where we will put this theory into practice."

CVW 5, commanded by Capt. Michael S. White, includes four F/A-18 Strike Fighter squadrons (VFA): the "Royal Maces" of VFA-27, the "Diamondbacks of VFA-102, the "Golden Dragons" of VFA-192 and the "Dambusters" of VFA-195. It also features Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115 "Liberty Bells," Carrier Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 136 "Gauntlets," Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 14 "Chargers," as well as detachments from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 "Providers" and Light Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HSL) 51 "Warlords."

GW, CVW-5 Finish COE, Ready for Summer Deployment

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Diamondbacks" assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 launches from the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, the Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier, is underway conducting a combat operations efficiency evaluation in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rachel N. Clayton/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs

ABOARD USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 5 successfully completed a combat operations efficiency (COE) evaluation June 2.

The COE certification, sometimes called a "blue-water certification," allows the ship and airwing team to launch and recover aircraft without the requirement for a divert airfield if operationally necessary.

"The Airwing 5, George Washington team came together to complete this evaluation better and sooner than anyone expected following our extended maintenance period," said GW Commanding Officer Capt. David A Lausman. "That success is truly a testament to the hard work and professionalism of all of the 5,000 Sailors on board, from the aircraft directors on the flight deck to the helmsmen steering the ship and from the maintainers keeping our aircraft flying to the culinary specialists preparing our food in our galleys.

"That teamwork is what makes us America's 911 strike group, fully ready to go anywhere in the world to execute the orders of the president of the United States."

The certification process began May 23, with the evaluation phase beginning May 31, according to GW Air Officer Cmdr. Mark Stoops. The GW/CVW-5 team was required to meet established criteria of efficiency and safety during aircraft launch and recovery operations throughout two consecutive days.

Stoops said the two major criteria involved in a successful COE evaluation are event factors and combat boarding rates. Event factor represents the average amount of time it takes GW to launch and recover aircraft per cycle, and combat boarding rate is the average amount of attempts it takes an aircraft to land on board.

"We did very well in both of those areas, which are hard to meet," Stoops said. "It's a big hurdle — a fun hurdle to face and a good hurdle to get over."

Cmdr. Steve Blasch, GW's assistant air officer, pointed out that the safe and efficient launch and recovery of aircraft requires teamwork at every level.

"The guys on the deck are phenomenal, and the work they do on a daily basis is amazing," he said. "But you can't overlook all the other Sailors, from those in the superstructure navigating the ship to the engineers below decks making us steam and getting wind over the deck."

The qualification is the last test for GW and CVW-5 before their upcoming deployment.

"This initial qualification gets us started as we begin our exercises through the summer on deployment," said CVW-5 Commander, Capt. Michael S. White.

"The real element we've been working for is to build the CVW-5 and GW team," White said. "The good part is everyone is very professional. They know what they're doing in their jobs, and it's just a matter of building communication lines so we work better together."

GW is the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan and comprised of CVW 5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, and guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

Following COE, GW will continue this underway in the western Pacific Ocean conducting advanced cyclic flight operations in preparation for its first summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka since becoming the Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier.

GW, CVW 5 Get Underway for COE

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73), with nearly 5,000 Sailors, departed its forward-deployed port of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka May 20 to conduct its combat operations efficiency (COE) evaluation in the Western Pacific.

The ship and crew, along with Sailors from embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, are now underway to conduct advanced cyclic flight operations to return the ship to full combat readiness following its first selective restricted availability which wrapped up earlier in May.

"COE measures our ability to land and recover aircraft with certain efficiency according to Navywide operational standards," said Cmdr. Vincent Aiello, CVW 5 operations officer.

COE certification is an important milestone because it proves that the ship and air wing team meets established criteria of efficiency and safety during aircraft launch and recovery operations. Successful completion of COE would allow CVW-5 and Washington to fly over open ocean without the requirement for a divert airfield if necessary.

The air wing also expects to conduct some air-to-ground strike training while at sea. This is a good test of the ship and air wing's ability to handle weapons, load them onto aircraft and employ them on over-land targets.

Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, George Washington is the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan and comprised of CVW 5, Destroyer Squadron 15 and guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

CVW 5, commanded by Capt. Michael S. White, has operated from Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, since 1973, and is the Navy's only forward-deployed, co-located air wing. CVW 5 has called George Washington home since the aircraft carrier's arrival in Japan last September when it replaced the recently decommissioned USS Kitty Hawk as the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.

Following the COE evaluation, George Washington expects to conduct its first summer deployment supporting security and stability in the Western Pacific region.

USS George Washington Underway for Sea Trials, Carrier Quals

Sailors validate the shipboard firefighting system during an Aqueous Film Forming Foam system test on the flight deck aboard of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) to qualify the flight deck for operations. George Washington is conducting sea trials and carrier qualifications in the western Pacific Ocean following its first Selected Restricted Availability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rachel N. Clayton/Released)

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73), with its crew of approximately 3,200 Sailors, departed from its forward-deployed homeport in Yokosuka, Japan, May 6 for sea trials and carrier qualifications in the Western Pacific after successfully completing its first Selective Restricted Availability (SRA).

Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, George Washington is the flagship for the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin Donegan and comprised of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5; Destroyer Squadron 15 and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

"The teamwork and cooperation amongst the maintenance professionals from Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Ship Repair Facility Yokosuka and our crew were extraordinarily successful, allowing us to complete our first Selective Restricted Availability as the permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier here in Yokosuka," said Lausman.

The George Washington is conducting equipment testing and carrier landing qualifications with CVW 5 following its SRA period, during which Puget Sound Naval Ship Yard, Ship Repair Facility Yokosuka, and the crew of GW completed more than 10,900 jobs consisting of more than 127,000 man-days of work.

"I think it was a great job; a great coordinated effort," said George Washington's Command Master Chief J. R. Clark Sr. "In my 26 years in the Navy, it was one of the best coordinated efforts I have seen to get it done as flawlessly as we did."

"With all the maintenance complete, we very much look forward to getting GW [George Washington] back to sea in order to test all systems that will return this great warship to the highest state of readiness for the immediate return of Carrier Air-Wing Five," said Lausman.

Major work items during the maintenance period included upgrades to the ship's radar systems, phone systems, 115-volt power distribution system, and service steam system.
Inspection and preservation of more than 160 tanks and voids, and flight deck non-skid replacement was also accomplished. Repairs and upgrades to catapult launch and recovery systems were also completed and upgrades on a number of berthing compartments improved ship habitability.

GW Strike Group Participates in Bilateral Exercise with Japanese Counterparts

The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) steams in formation with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force ships during the bilateral exercise ANNUALEX. ANNUALEX is a yearly exercise with the U.S. Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force to improve working relations between the two navies. (U.S. Navy Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ty Swartz/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Barry Hirayama, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group completed its first bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces (JMSDF and JASDF) Nov. 19.

ANNUALEX 20G is the 20th annual exercise of its kind but the first for USS George Washington (CVN 73), which relieved USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) this summer as the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.

The exercise is designed to enhance the capabilities of both naval forces, for continued success in coordinated and bilateral operations in the defense of Japan.

"ANNUALEX was an outstanding introduction for GW to the top-level professionalism and seamanship of the JMSDF," said GW's Operations Officer, Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "High-quality, mutually-beneficial training resulted from our collaboration throughout the exercise."

ANNUALEX focuses on enhancing military-to-military relationships, improving command and control, and conducting coordinated air, undersea and surface warfare.

"We are planning together, presenting the plan together, and we are standing watches together," said Lt. Roger Leech, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 air operations officer.

"Being in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility, knowing we can turn to our allies to help them or for them to help us, is reassuring. We know we can work together and accomplish the mission," said Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) C. Jones, a DESRON 15 Sailor who stood watches side-by-side with her Japanese counterparts.

While JMSDF Sailors integrated into many command and control spaces, Jones has not noticed any difficulties when it comes to effective communication.

"They add their expertise in many areas and their Japanese language skills help a lot when coordinating with other Japanese ships operating with the U.S. Navy," said Jones.

"It is very good to have the perspective they bring and how we can learn from each other during this exercise," added Leech. "Our [JMSDF] counterparts' planning has been very thorough."

U.S. Navy units taking part in the exercise with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force units included elements operating from Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Fleet Activities Sasebo and Naval Air Facility Atsugi.

George Washington Participates in ANNUALEX

U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships separate from one another after completing a 20-ship formation surrounding the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) at the conclusion of the bilateral exercise ANNUALEX. ANNUALEX is a yearly exercise with the U.S. Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force to improve working relations between the two navies. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ian Schoeneberg)

GW Wraps Up First Port Visit as Forward-Deployed Unit

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Carlos Gomez, USS George Washington Public Affairs

BUSAN, South Korea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) (GW), the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, wrapped up its first port visit Oct. 10, in Busan, South Korea, where Sailors participated in this year's International Fleet Review.

This was the carrier's first official port call as part of the forward deployed naval forces.

George Washington along with USS Cowpens (CG 63), USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) and USS McCampbell (DDG 85) were in Busan to participate in the International Fleet Review commemorating the Republic of Korea's armed forces' 60th anniversary. In addition to the fleet review, chiefs of navies and action officers from 24 countries participated in the Western Pacific Naval Symposium '08.

GW Sailors hosted a reception Oct. 8 aboard the ship for nearly 600 guests. The ship also conducted public tours Oct. 8-9 and hosted more than 500 visitors.

While in port, GW Sailors volunteered for a number of community outreach projects at local schools and orphanages. Along with members of Australian and Thai navies, they held a wreath-laying service at the local United Nations Memorial Cemetery. They also experienced the local culture through a number of trips and tours.

The George Washington Carrier Strike Group is currently at sea training in the Pacific Ocean.

George Washington Heads to Sea for First Time as a Part of the FDNF

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Carlos Gomez, USS George Washington Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) headed out to sea from Yokosuka, Japan, Oct. 1, for the first time as the Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier to conduct training and to participate in exercises with regional naval partners.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier arrived at Yokosuka Sept. 25, after replacing USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), which has returned to the United States for decommissioning after spending the last 10 years forward-deployed to Japan.

"The hospitality of our new neighbors in Yokosuka is phenomenal. We were home for only five days, but experienced a month's worth of welcome!" said George Washington's Commanding Officer, Capt. J. R. Haley.

"Now we are at sea doing what we trained to do. As the Forward Deployed Naval Force's (FDNF) carrier, we work with our regional partners in our primary mission - maritime security and stability."

This underway is significant because it is George Washington's first operational experience in the region, and its first operations with regional naval partners.

"We obviously want to put our best foot forward while working for the first time with regional navies," said George Washington's Operations Officer, Cmdr. Anthony Calandra. "GW brings a substantial upgrade to the support of our regional alliances, and we begin building our operational reputation today."