Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, right, speaks with Capt. Douglas Grabber, commanding officer of aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), in the Pacific Ocean, on the bridge during a ship visit, April 4, 2025. Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations on a scheduled deployment, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tomas R. Valdes)
During his visit, Koehler met with leadership across the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group and addressed the Sailors aboard, highlighting the strategic importance of their mission and the strike group's presence in the Indo-Pacific. He praised the crew for upholding the tradition of excellence that has defined Nimitz throughout decades of global operations.
“The first cruise I did in 1991 was on this ship,” said Koehler. “Now 34 years later, as I concentrate on stewardship across the fleet, it’s obvious the crew takes great pride and ownership of USS Nimitz. I appreciate all the work you do to maintain this warship to ensure it is combat ready and continues to strengthen deterrence.”
Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, salutes sideboys on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the Pacific Ocean, April 4, 2025. Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations on a scheduled deployment, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad K. Hughes)
Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, greets Sailors on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the Pacific Ocean, April 4, 2025. Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations on a scheduled deployment, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Carson Croom) (Photo cropped for emphasis on subject)
The visit comes as Nimitz continues a regularly scheduled deployment in one of the world’s most strategically significant maritime regions.
The strike group's deployment will focus on protecting security, freedom, and prosperity for the United States, our allies and partners and demonstrating the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, meets with Carrier Strike Group 11 and warfare commanders aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the Pacific Ocean, April 4, 2025. Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations on a scheduled deployment, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad K. Hughes) (Photo cropped for emphasis on subject)
During its history, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group has upheld the U.S. Navy’s commitment to a forward presence while ensuring maritime security, deterring aggression, and protecting the American way of life.
The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) is composed of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9.
As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces throughout the Indo-Pacific, providing realistic and relevant training to ensure the readiness required to meet the full spectrum of military operations. In coordination with allies and partners, U.S. 3rd Fleet advances a shared commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific where all nations can exercise their sovereignty free from coercion.