USS Kitty Hawk celebrates 42 years of service
7th Fleet News Release
Release Date: 30 April 2003
By USS Kitty Hawk public affairs
ABOARD USS KITTY HAWK AT SEA -- America's most seasoned aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), celebrated her 42nd birthday April 29.
Commissioned April 29, 1961, USS Kitty Hawk, affectionately known as the "Battle Cat," has a long history of answering the nation's call. It's the world's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.
As the ship heads for home after taking part in Operation Iraqi Freedom in the Arabian Gulf, the birthday was celebrated with a cake cutting ceremony on the mess decks.
"The first deployment of the ship was as part of the Cuban missile crisis, and since then, one emergency after another until Operation Iraqi Freedom today. Always up front, the mighty USS Kitty Hawk," said Capt. Thomas A. Parker, the ship's 32nd commanding officer, who cut and served cake for the crew.
Hawk has logged nearly 32, 000 miles since January when she left Japan for the Arabian Gulf. The ship is scheduled to return to Yokosuka May 6.
"There is no better birthday present than going home and relaxing with family," said Chief Navy Counselor (SW) Phyllis Bouie, as she enjoyed a slice of cake.
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