'Gold Eagle' Holds Annual Summer Bash

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) held its annual "Summer Bash" event at Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va. on Aug 1.

The command-wide event featured a host of water-slides, games, and plenty of food.

"It was a great chance for me to bring out my family and enjoy the company of my shipmates," said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class (AW/SW) Jonathan Tolar. "The weather was amazing, and everyone looked like they were having a great time at the water-park."

With an overall goal of boosting morale while building off-duty camaraderie with fellow Sailors, Carl Vinson's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) division facilitates off-duty events such as the Summer Bash, an annual Christmas party for the crew and other sporting and inter-departmental activities.

"This year we wanted the Summer Bash to be exactly what the crew wanted it to be," said USS Carl Vinson 'Fun Boss' Erin Saluta. "The crew has worked very hard during this refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) period, and this is a way for the Sailors to reward themselves for a job well-done."

Sailors determined the location for the event by casting their votes earlier in the year. The amusement park offered water-rides, slides, pools, and a dive show. The crew also enjoyed a variety of foods and enjoyed colorful 1950's and 60's surf-inspired entertainment.

"This was my first Summer Bash with this command, and I had such a great time," said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class (SW) Leticia Chupany. "There were so many things to do, and the atmosphere was very exciting and fun. It was a great way to enjoy some time off with friends and family."

For many crew members, the Summer Bash was an opportunity to spend time with colleagues outside of work and bring their families with them.

"We want to present the crew with fun options right here at home that are exciting, safe and enjoyable for Sailors and their families," said Saluta. "The Summer Bash was a hit, and everyone had a lot of fun!"

Carl Vinson is undergoing its scheduled RCOH at Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard. The RCOH is an extensive yard period that all Nimitz-class aircraft carriers go through near the mid-point of their 50-year lifecycle.

During RCOH Carl Vinson's nuclear fuel will be replenished and the ship's services and infrastructure will be upgraded to make her the most state-of-the-art aircraft carrier in the fleet and prepare for another 25 years or more of service.

For more news from USS Carl Vinson, visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn70/.