Military

Ronald Reagan Strike Group Arrives in Hong Kong for Port Visit

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070307-20
Release Date: 3/7/2007 5:18:00 PM

From USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Carrier Strike Group (RRSG) arrived in Hong Kong March 7 for a scheduled port visit, offering Sailors a chance to participate in cultural exchanges, goodwill generating activities and build friendships.

While in Hong Kong, 250 crew members will take part in 10 community relations projects March 8–9, to include assisting at orphanages and rehabilitation centers as well as working at a dog rescue facility.

“It is a privilege for us to make our second port call to Hong Kong, an international city rich in history, culture and tradition,” said Commander, Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Rear Adm. Charles W. Martoglio. “Hong Kong is also a favorite port visit for our Sailors.”

“The crew is excited to return to Hong Kong, especially after last year’s successful visit during our maiden deployment. This will be a welcome break from our very busy deployment schedule,” said Capt. Terry B. Kraft, Reagan’s commanding officer.

The RRSG is comprised of Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 7, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), the guided-missile destroyers USS Russell (DDG 59) and USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60), and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 11, Det. 15. USS Greenville (SSN 772) is also accompanying the RRSG on its visit to Hong Kong. More than 6,000 Sailors are currently assigned to RRSG.

RRSG is currently in the U.S. 7th Fleet’s area of responsibility (AOR) as part of a surge deployment to promote cooperation, security, and stability in the region.

Homeported in San Diego, Ronald Reagan is the Navy’s newest Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. Ronald Reagan was commissioned in July 2003, making it the ninth Nimitz-class nuclear powered aircraft carrier. The ship is named after the 40th U.S. president, and carries the motto of “Peace through Strength,” a recurrent theme during the Reagan presidency.