The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson visited the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Dec. 13-14.

Richardson arrived as a passenger in an F/A-18F Super Hornet before briefing with George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG) leadership and observing flight deck operations.

"We flew in and got right to it," said Richardson. "We got some terrific briefs and from everything I can see, the crew is right on track to deploy fully-certified into the Central Command area of responsibility."

On Wednesday, GHWB Sailors had the opportunity to share a meal and conversation with Richardson on the mess decks.

"It was a very humbling experience to have the opportunity to speak with the CNO," said Petty Officer 1st Class Bryant Sharp. "He is a very down-to-earth individual who has never lost sight of his roots."

Richardson also emphasized the importance of the upcoming deployment to the embarked crew over the ship's public address system.

"The challenges could never be greater," Richardson said. "From the moment you leave Norfolk, you will be fully tested with under sea, on-the-sea and over-the-sea challenges. From what I see, your training is set, your leadership is great, and your minds are in the right place."

GHWB is currently underway conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) with GHWBCSG in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

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