Commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2 Rear Adm. Cynthia M. Thebaud visited the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) Aug. 3 while the ship was underway for the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group's (ARG) composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX).

During the course of her visit, Thebaud was able to observe well deck operations in support of COMPTUEX, in addition to riding in an Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4's landing craft air cushion (LCAC).

"We always enjoy showing a ship as great as Arlington," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class John Macaluso, who presented the ship's hangar bay during a brief tour of the ship. "We put a lot of hard work into making this the best ship in the fleet, and it's great to have someone like Rear Adm. Thebaud visit and see all that we have put into this ship and her mission."

Thebaud's visit coincides with the final engagements of the ship's COMPTUEX, which allowed her to witness the many ways Arlington can accomplish her mission of transporting Marines and equipment when and where they are needed.

"It is always inspiring to visit this impressive ship that has such an incredibly rich heritage," said Thebaud. "Regardless of where Arlington is operating, what this ship brings is a huge deterrent around the world."

Arlington is currently underway with the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) which is composed of Arlington, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4 staff, USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

Commanded by Capt. Sean Bailey, Arlington is preparing for its maiden deployment this fall.

For more news from USS Arlington (LPD 24), visit www.navy.mil/.