Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) is currently underway making final preparations and undergoing training before an upcoming deployment.

Sweeney gave his coin to Sailors in recognition of their hard work, engaged with leaders of all levels, and praised the crews on their stellar performance and impact in maintaining mission readiness.

“You’re absolutely knocking it out of the park, and I appreciate that,” said Sweeney as he addressed the crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73) over the ship’s general announcement system. “I’m so thrilled to be back on Decatur walking the deck plates and meeting with the crew and leadership.”

Sweeney, who previously served as Decatur’s commanding officer, toured spaces aboard the DDG, talked with Sailors, and met with the ship’s leaders. While the overall goal of training at sea is mission readiness, the CSG 11 commander stressed the importance of individual readiness to the crews.

“Obviously we have to get the ships ready to deploy, but you have to get yourselves ready too,” said Sweeney. “Take time at home to prepare your families and friends. Not only logistically, but mentally as well.”

NIMCSG, with its flagship, aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), is accompanied by Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52), and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 9 – Decatur, USS John Finn (113), USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), and USS Shoup (DDG 86).

NIMCSG training at sea coincides with the centennial of the aircraft carrier. For 100 years, U.S. aircraft carriers and embarked carrier air wings have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, and maintained enduring commitments worldwide. NIMCSG Sailors continue the legacy of innovation, evolution and dominance while training across a full range of missions. This training before deployment ensures the strike group is ready to control the sea, conduct precision strikes, maneuver across the electromagnetic spectrum and perform as an integrated team to carry out sustained combat operations.

For more information on the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, please visit
https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/USS-Nimitz-CVN-68/