The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed Guam after a four-day goodwill port visit, Oct. 5.
The visit provided Sailors well-deserved liberty and opportunities to engage with Guam citizens, and culminated with the Commander, Task Force 70 change of command ceremony.
The port visit set the stage for the CTF-70 change of command ceremony. Rear Adm. John Alexander assumed command of CTF-70 from Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery who reflected upon his time as commander, Battle Force 7th Fleet.
In addition to an estimated 250 guests who attended the change of command ceremony, Sailors also gave more than 200 Guam citizens an opportunity to tour George Washington during its visit. Sailors also participated in six community relations (COMREL) projects and competed against local teams five sporting events.
George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
[mappress] Press Release, October 06, 2014; Image: US Navy