The U.S. ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain visited aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) underway in the Arabian (Persian) Gulf Jan. 23-24.
Ambassador Thomas C. Krajeski and his wife Bonnie were accompanied by the Italian Ambassador to Bahrain Alberto Vecchi and French Ambassador to Bahrain Christian Testot.
“This experience has been amazing,” said Krajeski. “I wanted to meet the young Americans and see what they’re doing. I’m stunned by how good everyone is at their job and the variety of people.”
While on board, they observed flight deck operations and toured several spaces throughout the ship including the combat direction center, hangar bay, weapons magazine, carrier air-traffic control center and a berthing area.
The purpose of the visit was to engage with John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) leadership and observe the unique contribution the JCSCSG brings to the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR).
“It’s important for us to understand and actually see firsthand what’s going on and how we’re keeping peace in the region,” said Mrs. Krajeski.
Additionally, Sailors enjoyed the presence of the diplomatic leaders aboard Stennis.
“Being able to eat breakfast with the U.S. ambassador to Bahrain was an opportunity that a lot of people don’t get,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Kelland Guerin, from Moses Lake, Wash. “I enjoyed the chance to listen to his views. It made me take a step back and realize the importance of Stennis being in this area.”
The JCSCSG, consisting of John C. Stennis, Carrier Air Wing 9, Destroyer Squadron 21, and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to strengthen regional partnerships, sustain maritime security, and support combatant commander requirements for assets in the area.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 30, 2013; Image: US Navy