Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group Two (ESG 2) arrived aboard USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) via helicopter Dec. 5, 2016, in the Atlantic Ocean to view and be briefed on a key exercise that prepares the Navy and Marine Corps team for its scheduled deployment next year.

Rear Adm. Roy I. Kitchener visited USS Carter Hall as the ship participates in Amphibious Readiness Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (ARG/MEUEX).

Kitchener spent his time aboard observing operations and speaking with Sailors and Marines. He met with the officer's wardroom and chief's mess, discussing topics such as management and leadership, the recent changes to Navy ratings, suicide awareness and prevention and mission readiness.

"What I mean when I'm talking about readiness is taking care of your ship so when you need it, it takes care of you," Kitchener said to the wardroom.

Kitchener complimented the crew on its performance during its Board of Inspection and Survey assessment in October, 2016.

"He gave us a good picture of where we are as leaders on the deckplates, and also where we are as leaders in the Navy in general," said Ensign Richard Descano, Carter Hall's assistant supply officer.

Kitchener visited the bridge to observe the ship's maneuvering, and then observed the 24th MEU launch amphibious assault vehicles from the ship's well deck.

Command Master Chief (SW/AW/IDW) Donald Harris said he appreciated the support Kitchener's visit provided the crew.

"When he walks around the ship and talks to Sailors he's extremely encouraging and empowering," Harris said. "He takes time, he's never rushing. That's a very good quality from a commander; to get his complete buy-in to support us in what we do out here."

Kitchener ended his visit by awarding and congratulating the ship's Sailors of the Year.

"It was very rewarding; all the hard work that we've been doing around the ship," said Petty Officer 1st Class (SW/EXW) Michael Potter, Carter Hall's Senior Sailor of the Year. "He expressed that it didn't go unseen. For him to come and congratulate us personally was an honor."

Carter Hall is scheduled to deploy with the USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious Ready Group early next year.



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