Nimitz Carrier Strike Group Joins Others Deployed to 5th Fleet
Navy NewStand
Story Number: NNS030407-10
Release Date: 4/7/2003 4:01:00 PM
By Journalist Seaman Kristine DeHoux, USS Nimitz Public Affairs
USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Group recently entered the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility, making it the fourth carrier strike group in the region deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) is accompanied by USS Chosin (CG 65), USS Princeton (CG 59), USS Benfold (DDG 65), USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG 60), USS Oldendorf (DD 972) and USS Bridge (AOE 10).
This deployment marks the first time the carrier has deployed to the U.S. Central Command region since 1997. As the lead ship in its class, Nimitz was the first to conduct a refueling complex overhaul, which required the ship to return to its birthplace of Newport News, Va., for three years in 1998.
Upon completion of its refueling complex overhaul, Nimitz conducted an interfleet transfer to its new homeport of San Diego. After a brief post-shakedown availability at Naval Air Station, North Island, Nimitz and crew began preparing for deployment.
Nimitz and its carrier strike group, lead by Commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group 5, Rear Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III, were certified ready for deployment in January.
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