The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) was commissioned July 25, 1998 and it would be nothing today without its crew serving aboard.

In the months leading to its commissioning, the ship was only at a fraction of its full might.

"When I first checked on to the ship in March of 1998 there was nothing," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class B. M. Coffelt. "No medical, no dental, nothing. It was just a skeleton of a ship. When I first checked aboard, the crew was very green. A lot of us had never been out to sea and we didn't go out for a couple of years. When we did finally go out I was a little nervous because I didn't know what to expect. Ever since we got out it has felt like we are the ship in the spotlight."

Ever since the ship went on its first cruise, it's thought to be held above the rest.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class M. J. Garcia said when he was first aboard Truman in 2004, the ship as a whole had higher standards than other carriers.

"It was because of our chain of command that we had such high standards and we were able to carry ourselves tall and proud," said Garcia.

Chief Aviation Ordnanceman B. M. Porter said the ship is one of the best in the fleet.

"I've been on a few other carries, but the Truman has been the cleanest, most well-maintained one," said Porter. "The condition of this ship is surpassed by none."

Coming back to the ship has been a different experience whether they chose to come back or not.

Lt. J. E. Conyer said the ship and crew are just as good now as when he first checked in to the ship in 1998.

"This might not be the same crew as when the ship was commissioned, but the camaraderie and military bearing are still the same," said Conyer. "When we first went out I was proud of all the work put in by myself and the crew, coming back I see that we are still the best in the fleet."

Coffelt said it was a little strange coming back as a more experienced Sailor.

"It's definitely a different feeling coming back as a senior person compared to when I first came here as an airman fresh out of school," said Coffelt. "I chose to come back because this is where I was raised, where I started my career. I only have a few more years before I retire and I thought it would be cool to retire or make chief at the same place it all began."

Garcia said he feels the Navy is different compared to when he was first on the ship.

"From then to now, the Navy has definitely changed as a whole," said Garcia. "Everything seems ramped up and more charged compared to when I first got in. The chain of command is now more involved and cares about the well-being and morale of the crew. It's a positive change for sure."

Even though the crew cycles in and out with new and old Sailors, one thing will remain - the standard to which we are all held while aboard.

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/.