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GW Carrier Strike Group Commander Visits USS Monterey

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060411-06
Release Date: 4/11/2006 12:41:00 PM

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW) Katherine Favell, USS George Washington Strike Group Public Affairs

USS MONTEREY, At Sea (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Joseph Kilkenny, Commander, George Washington Carrier Strike Group (GWCSG) visited USS Monterey (CG 61) April 7 to meet with the crew and discuss their involvement in upcoming exercises and operations.

The ship is part of GWCSG, deploying to the Caribbean Sea for “Partnership of the Americas.”

“This is a great opportunity to get down to the Caribbean for some unit level training for the strike group,” said Kilkenny. “It’s also a chance to enjoy some great liberty ports in places few Sailors get to see.”

Upon arrival, Kilkenny shook hands with members of Monterey’s air department, as well as crew members from Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (Light) (HSL) 46, Detachment 1 in the ship’s helicopter hangar. He then met with Monterey’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Robert Oldani, followed by the ship's officers in the Wardroom. Afterwards, Kilkenny greeted members of Monterey’s chief’s mess.

During his visit, Kilkenny talked about Monterey’s role in “Partnership of the Americas.”

“Partnership of the Americas” is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored deployment designed to enhance regional maritime security and strengthen ties through operations and exercises with Caribbean and Latin American partner nations. Monterey and the other GWCSG assets will operate with various forces while focusing on unconventional threats such as narco-terrorism and human trafficking. They will also improve training levels in a variety of mission areas. Participating ships will make numerous port visits and conduct community relations projects ashore designed to promote friendship with several host nations.

Before his departure, Kilkenny addressed the ship’s crew over the ship’s 1MC intercom.

“You are embarking on an important endeavor and you are going to have a great time,” Kilkenny said. “Ensure you share your experiences with our coalition partners and enjoy the liberty in the Caribbean.”

The visit by Kilkenny gave Monterey Sailors a unique opportunity to communicate with their strike group commander and receive information from senior leadership.

"I've only been out of “A” school since March, and I didn't think I'd get to meet our admiral in my first two weeks on the ship," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Apprentice Aaron Harris. "He seems like a down to earth person who you could approach with just about anything."

Monterey left Norfolk Naval Station April 4 for “Partnership of the Americas.”