Commander, Navy Region Northwest Rear Adm. Scott Gray, commanding officers and command master chiefs from tenant commands throughout the Northwest region visited the Washington State Capitol for Navy Day in Olympia, Jan. 29.

Navy Day is an annual event convened in the Senate and the House Chambers in the legislative building to honor the U.S. Navy and its personnel in the Northwest Region. Sailors based in Washington State serve on two aircraft carriers, five surface ships, thirteen submarines, and one hundred and sixty aircraft are regularly deployed around the world to deter aggression, relieve the distressed, and aid the United States’ friends and allies.

“The things we do here for the United States Navy and the defense of our country in this region are unique, indispensable to our ability to defend in this increasingly dangerous world,” Commander, Navy Region Northwest Adm. Scott Gray. “Our ability to fight and win is directly tied to things we do here in the Puget Sound area.”

The opportunities and challenges that are presented by Asia and the Pacific Rim countries make Washington State uniquely positioned politically, economically and geographically, bringing Washington 78,549 careers and infuses economic stability with $10.7 billion each year.

“As I review the Department’s capabilities around the world, I am struck by the vast array of operations, testing, and training conducted on the ranges and other lands in Washington State that are critical to our Navy’s readiness,” said Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy Energy, Installations and Environment Lucian Niemeyer.

The Navy has continued to work hard in assisting partnerships nationwide and being a good steward to the environment through numerous projects such as the work to improve salmon recovery, support southern resident orca recovery, and conserve water and energy.

“We appreciate this partnership because we couldn’t do what we do every day without the support from the local government and state government,” said Submarine Group 9 Chief of Staff, Capt. John Fancher.

Navy Day is a reflection from local and state government to honor, appreciate and remember those who have served and are serving.

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For more news from Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs Office, visit www.navy.mil/.