By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Nathan Burke
Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert greets sailors stationed aboard the aircraft carriers USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy/MC3 Ryan McFarlane) >>
SAN DIEGO - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert visited the crew of the Nimitz class aircraft carriers USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) for an all-hands call at Naval Base Coronado (NBC), San Diego, Aug. 17.
During his remarks, Greenert congratulated Vinson on the completion of a successful deployment and Reagan about the importance of becoming the newest addition to the forward deployed naval forces.
“For those of you who are taking the Reagan to Japan, you know the importance of what you are doing,” said Greenert. “Reagan is going to assume the mantle of the forward deployed naval force aircraft carrier. That is a key part of our security symbol and the iconic value of the United States, and our commitment to Japan and our alliance. That alliance is the most important alliance for the security of northeast Asia.”
Reagan will be forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for the next leg of its service allowing the crew to practice its maxim “Peace through strength” as a forward deployed aircraft carrier.
“You are the deterrent factor there, but more importantly, you’re the symbol of our commitment to the western Pacific,” said Greenert. “What you are doing is so incredibly important. This is real business and you are the tip of that spear.”
Greenert also addressed the “Cooks from the Valley,” a charitable organization based out of Bakersfield, California. Since September 11, 2011, the group has provided steak barbeques to U.S. Navy service members around the world. The group grilled more than 11,500 steaks and provided a full meal for crew members of Reagan and Vinson.
“I think it’s important because you guys are out here for us,” said Tom Anton, “Cooks” founder. “Thank you all for doing what you do … You guys are doing it and we’re not. That’s why we need to help out.”
The visit marked Greenert’s last visit to NBC San Diego as CNO. He is scheduled to retire from naval service later this year.