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Enterprise Wraps up Successful Fleet Week

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS040505-04

Release Date: 5/5/2004 7:33:00 PM

By Journalist 3rd Class Daniel Vaughan, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

ABOARD USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Enterprise (Big E) (CVN 65) concluded a successful port visit to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., April 30, as guests of South Florida Fleet Week USA.

With beautiful weather, pristine beaches and hospitable residents, South Florida was a great location for liberty call for not only the "Big E" crew, but also for the Sailors of USS Trenton (LPD 14), USS Mitscher (DDG 57), USS Simpson (FFG 56), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), USS Stephen W. Groves (FFG 29) and USS Miami (SSN 755).

"I think Fleet Week was more than a success for us," said CMDCM (SW) Mike Oldknow, Enterprise command master chief. "I think it was a resounding success for us. The crew had a blast out there, and I think the people of Broward County and South Florida enjoyed having us there."

Aviation Maintenance Administrationman Sandra Bohorquez said she received a lot of appreciation from people while on shore patrol duty in her summer whites. "A lot of people would come up and say, 'thanks for all you do.' It made me feel like I'm actually doing something," she said.

When she wasn't on duty, Bohorquez enjoyed seeing her family members in West Palm Beach. "It was the first time I've seen them since I joined the Navy," she added.

Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Quoc-Tuan Nguyen also ventured out while on liberty. "I got a lot of appreciation from people," he said. "People wanted to have their pictures taken with me. It made me feel proud to be in the Navy."

According to Enterprise Executive Officer Cmdr. William Hamilton Jr., Fleet Week was good not just for the Sailors, but also for the Florida locals. "People in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County wanted to show their appreciation for what we do and the sacrifices we make in serving our country," he said. "We don't often get a chance to do that."

Residents showed their appreciation not only with a kind word, but also with a variety of fun events and activities, free food and drinks, and live music. Upon arrival April 26, the ships' crews were invited to an All Hands on Deck Welcoming Party at the Las Olas Riverfront entertainment complex. From there, the communities of Broward County hosted a variety of events for the Sailors throughout the week, including a golf tournament and intramural athletic competitions. Sailors from Big E's Damage Control division took first place in a damage control competition held April 27. Many local businesses contributed to the events in the way of free food and beverages for the Sailors.

Oldknow said the good behavior of the Enterprise crew helped leave a positive impression of the Navy. "We lived up to the pride that they have in us," he said. "We reinforced what they believe about the military's high standards."

Thousands of Floridians also got the chance to tour Enterprise, including dozens of local school groups and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps units. "There were many people that were just awestruck by the ship," said Hamilton. He said the tours provided Enterprise Sailors a chance to show off their ship.

Some Sailors used their free time to benefit the local community. Sailors visited patients in a local hospital, visited children in an elementary school and helped build houses for low-income families. "They provided some exposure of the Sailors to the people of Fort Lauderdale," said Chaplain (Lt.) Robert Cain. "It's nothing but positive. Before we even get there, the plans are made and all the logistics are done and points of contact are made in the community. So there's that working together before we even get there."

Enterprise's role in Fleet Week concluded May 1, as Big E and four other ships steamed in formation five miles off the Florida shoreline to provide a backdrop for the Fleet Week air show. After that, it's back to homeport in Norfolk, Va., and Big E Sailors' biggest fans: their own families.