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Vice President Cheney Recognizes USS Bonhomme Richard

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060527-14
Release Date: 5/27/2006 10:00:00 PM

By Chief Journalist (SW/AW) Walter T. Ham IV, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Vice President Dick Cheney praised the Sailors and Marines of USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) during a May 23 visit to the multipurpose amphibious assault ship.

The vice president visited BHR to welcome home Sailors and Marines from Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 1 who conducted earthquake relief operations in Pakistan and combat operations in Iraq during their recent deployment.

“Another great ship, our host platform today, is the USS Bonhomme Richard, which spearheaded the tsunami relief effort off Indonesia last year,” said Cheney, referring to the ship’s delivery of 2.1 million pounds of humanitarian aid during Operation Unified Assistance.

Cheney said the accomplishments of the Sailors and Marines aboard were indicative of the capabilities the sea services bring to any crisis.

“All around us today are signs of American sea power – a fleet like none that ever sailed before, a Navy and Marine Corps that uphold noble traditions, and a flag that stands for freedom, human rights, and stability in the world,” Cheney said. “Aboard these ships, on this base, and across the globe, Americans in uniform are writing a new chapter of excellence and achievement for the United States Armed Forces. You bring relief to the helpless, hope to the oppressed, and you are protecting the people of this nation in a time of war.”

The vice president added that the service and sacrifices of American military members and their families are making the world a safer and better place for future generations.

“We are a nation that believes in ideals, upholds them in our own country, and acts on them in the world beyond,” Cheney said. “From providing global food aid and disaster relief, to standing with freedom-loving peoples in the struggle against tyranny and terror, we are doing great good in this world.”

According to BHR Commanding Officer Capt. Steve Greene, BHR Sailors and Marines provided an outstanding welcome to the vice president and their fellow warriors from ESG 1.

“It was a great day for BHR Sailors and Marines and our shipmates from ESG 1,” said Greene. “A visit from the vice president is a singular event in a ship’s history, and the crew of BHR was honored and excited to host the Vice President and Mrs. Cheney and honor the achievements of ESG 1.”

BHR is currently in the final stages of its training cycle, preparing for future operations at sea.