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GW Visits Souda Bay

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS040218-03

Release Date: 2/18/2004 11:05:00 AM

By Journalist 3rd Class (SW) Michael L. Misfeldt, Naval Media Center, Souda Bay Public Affairs

SOUDA BAY, Crete (NNS) -- Sailors and crew of USS George Washington (CVN 73) got a much-needed rest Feb. 6-10, when the Norfolk-based aircraft carrier visited Souda Bay before resuming her transit to the Central Command Area of Responsibility to continue her mission.

"I feel it was important to be here. This helped to break the normal day-to-day routine that you get accustomed to while at sea," said Ship's Serviceman 3rd Class John Kelly, George Washington crew member. "This is my third time here, and each time I come back, it always seems better than the last time I was here."

For some, it was a chance to try new things and see a new place.

"The food was the most interesting thing to me. I love to eat and felt very fortunate to be able to experience a new taste sensation," said Seaman Traleigh Savage.

"I loved the scenery and the mountains," added Savage. "The people here are great, and I think that anyone that has a chance to come here should."

Naval Support Activity Souda Bay helps ships and aircraft that come through the area on their way to the Persian Gulf or the Indian Ocean, and the Sailors aboard George Washington saw and respected that.

"This was great. The base was outstanding and really helped us to fit in. Anything we needed or wanted, they were here to provide for us," said Aviation Ordnanceman Seaman Apprentice John Cortez, George Washington Weapons Department.

George Washington is currently on a six-month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.