The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) (GHWB) arrived in Portsmouth, England, for a scheduled port visit, July 27.

Nearly 5,000 GHWB and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 Sailors will have the opportunity to visit the historic port, and take advantage of tours offered by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program.

"Visiting Portsmouth is definitely one the highlights of this deployment," said Command Master Chief Huben Phillips, GHWB's command master chief. "I know the Sailors are excited to immerse themselves in English culture, try local food, and enjoy the hard-earned and well-deserved opportunity to explore the rich history of Portsmouth and London."

This port visit precedes the ship's participation in the multinational exercise Saxon Warrior '17 along with elements from the United Kingdom and other North American Treaty Organization (NATO) members. The exercise is designed to develop theater-specific combat skills, as well as enhance cooperation between allies.

"After completing our mission, we are taking time to visit one of our greatest allies," said Capt. Will Pennington, GHWB's commanding officer. "I think it speaks volumes about our Navy and our nation that we are stopping to help our ally get back in the carrier strike group business. The U.K.'s support, and our teamwork together, has been crucial to protecting the freedoms of both nations. This port visit and the upcoming exercise show the strength of our relationship and that it will still carry on into the future."

For many GHWB Sailors, this will be the first time visiting the United Kingdom.

"I'm really excited for this port visit," said Operations Specialist 3rd Class Taylor Brickles. "Ever since I joined the Navy three and a half years ago, it's been the dream port visit that I've been looking forward to."

The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests.

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