The ships arrived after six months in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, where the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group supported Operation Epic Fury and the U.S. naval blockade. The strike group is now conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area.
“The performance and resiliency of this strike group over the last six months has been exceptional,” said Rear Adm. Todd F. Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10. “Thailand is one of America’s oldest friends anywhere in the world, which is why it is such a privilege to visit Phuket and provide our Sailors and Marines an opportunity to experience this unique and amazing culture.”
Thailand is the United States’ oldest partner in Asia and its only treaty ally in mainland Southeast Asia. The Navy said the maritime relationship between the two countries supports regional security, and that port visits and exercises such as Cobra Gold strengthen that cooperation.
While in port, strike group leaders will meet with Thai civilian and military officials to discuss the alliance. Sailors will have time to explore Phuket and take part in community relations events, among them a U.S.-Thailand soccer match organized by the carrier’s Morale, Recreation, and Welfare Committee.
“Our crew has performed exceptionally while underway, demonstrating discipline, resilience, and unity,” said Capt. Justin T. Issler, the carrier’s commanding officer. “This port visit provides a well-earned opportunity for our Sailors to rest while reflecting on the professionalism they bring to every mission.”
“We are honored to experience Thailand’s rich culture, engage with the local community, and strengthen our enduring relationship with our Thai maritime partners,” Issler said.
The Nimitz-class George H.W. Bush is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 10 and carries the strike group’s staff and Carrier Air Wing 7, which has nine embarked aviation squadrons. The strike group also includes the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) and Destroyer Squadron 22, with USS Ross (DDG 71) and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75).
The strike group deployed in March for operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet and 7th Fleet areas. The Navy said its current work with allies and partners supports a free, open, connected, prosperous, secure and resilient Indo-Pacific.
