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USS Nimitz Makes Port Visit to Bahrain
Story Number: NNS091024-02
Release Date: 10/24/2009 5:20:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Amara R. Timberlake, USS Nimitz Public Affairs
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) arrived in Bahrain for a liberty port visit Oct. 24, while on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
While deployed, Nimitz Strike group is conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in regional waters, and providing direct air support to ground forces operating in Afghanistan.
While in Bahrain, Nimitz Sailors will visit the city of Manama and experience firsthand the culture of the Middle East. Morale, Welfare and Recreation is sponsoring tours and activities that include shopping, scuba diving, deep sea fishing as well religious cultural events and tours.
"Bahrain is an excellent liberty port for our Sailors," said Nimitz Commanding Officer Capt. Paul Monger. "We are very much looking forward to the hospitality of the people of Bahrain and the rich cultural tradition found in the Kingdom."
Since departing Singapore in September, Nimitz has safely sailed over 14,000 miles and has conducted over 1,800 air sorties. Aircraft launched from the Nimitz's flight deck provide 30 percent of all coalition close air support in Afghanistan.
Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Miller, is comprised of USS Nimitz, embarked Carrier Air Wing 11, embarked Destroyer Squadron 23, and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin. Ships assigned to DESRON 23 include the destroyers USS Pinckney, USS Sampson and the frigate USS Rentz.
Squadrons from CVW 11 include the "Black Aces" of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the "Tophatters" of VFA 14, the "Warhawks" of VFA 97, the "Sidewinders" of VFA 86, the "Indians" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 6, the "Black Ravens" of Electronic Attack Squadron 135, the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 and the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Command and Control Squadron 117.
Helicopter detachments include the "Easy Riders" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 37, the "Battle Cats" of HSL 43, the "Wolfpack" of HSL 45, the "Scorpions" of HSL 49 and the "Wildcards" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23. Also accompanying the Nimitz CSG are Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 11 and the USNS Bridge.
For more news from USS Nimitz (CVN 68), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn68/.
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