Today's US Navy Hi-res Photos!

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (Nov. 7, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) heave a line during a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199). Mustin is one of seven Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers attached to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and is on patrol in the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mikey Mulcare/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 3, 2011) An SH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter flies above the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) as it returns to homeport after conducting routine training exercises in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Russell/Released)

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OKINAWA, Japan (Nov. 4, 2011) Master Chief Culinary Specialist Patricio M. Amansec directs the flow of traffic as Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) debark the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) at White Beach Naval Facility. Essex offloaded elements of the 31st MEU after completing Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew R. Cole/Released)

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OKINAWA, Japan (Nov. 4, 2011) Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) inventory equipment at White Beach Naval Facility after disembarking from the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew R. Cole/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 3, 2011) A Sailor assigned to the Military Sealift Command roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Bob Hope (T-AKR 300) climbs the ramp from the pier to the ship at Naval Base San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 3, 2011) Ships moored at Naval Base San Diego are obscured by an early morning fog. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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CARIBBEAN SEA (Nov. 5, 2011) An amphibious assault vehicle exits the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) to transport Marines assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force to Matuntugo, Columbia to support Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station 2012. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Thomas Childs/Released)

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AUBURN, Wash. (Nov. 5, 2001) Sailors assigned to Navy Band Northwest perform during a Veteran's Day parade. The Veteran's Day National Committee and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs have designated Auburn as a regional site for celebration of Veterans Day. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ryan Riley/Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (Oct. 29, 2011) A member of the U.S. Coast Guard visit, board, search and seizure team board a rigid-hull inflatable boat from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Turner/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 6, 2011) Culinary Specialist Seaman 1st Class Brandon Adams, from Dallas, and Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Charlene Cruz, from West Chester, Pa., slice carrots during an "Iron Chef" competition aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The winner of the competition will spend five days training with a top sous chef from San Diego Country Club. Ronald Reagan is supporting Naval Air Training Command carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Specialist Seaman Timothy M. Black/Released)

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JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (Nov 6, 2011) An aircrew member assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 209 greets his loved ones during a homecoming celebration at Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility. VAQ-209 completed an 85-day forward deployed tour to Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis/Released)

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SEAL BEACH, Calif. (Nov. 3, 2011) The guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) departs Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach after an ordnance transfer operation. Earlier in the day, the weapons station was awarded the 2012 Commander, Navy Region Southwest Installation Excellence Award for small installations. (U.S. Navy photo by Gregg Smith/Released)

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JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (Nov. 4, 2011) Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class William Thompson, assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 209, receives a kiss from his wife during a homecoming celebration at Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis/Released)

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T-45C Goshawk's assigned to the Eagles of Training Squadron Seven (VT-7) conduct "carrier qual" flight operations from the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is conducting operations at sea in support of Naval Air Training Command carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photos /Released)

Awesome indeed. There are also other ongoing naval exercises involving the USN and Navies of various Asian Countries and Australia. The FPDA - "Five Nations Defence Arrangement" (RN, RAN, RNZN, RSN & RMN) also carry out bi-annual naval exercises, albeit on a small scale. Exercises are held in the Western Pacific, East & South East Asian waters, and some in the Indian Ocean where the Indian Navy had also particitated. If I remember correctly, the PLA-N had been invited to participate in the past. The Chinese had their reasons for declining, and we should respect them. However, that said, these exercises coordinated by the USN are usually for training upgrades, synchronize manouveres, & friendly social interactions among the officers and sailors. They are not meant to be a threat threat to any country.

If I remember correctly, the PLA-N had been invited to participate in the past. The Chinese had their reasons for declining, and we should respect them. However, that said, these exercises coordinated by the USN are usually for training upgrades, synchronize manouveres, & friendly social interactions among the officers and sailors. They are not meant to be a threat threat to any country.

I wonder what the "real" reason the Chinese declined to take part in the festivities??/ I know there was some training with the PLAN in 2006..

I'll post those pix tomorrow..I have to go to work.

Though you guys might find this interesting, Pictures of basketball game on the US carrier:

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Originally Posted by no_name

Though you guys might find this interesting, Pictures of basketball game on the US carrier:

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Here's a few hi-res pix of the game held aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70)..


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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 11, 2011) President Barack Obama greets attendees to the Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice George Bell/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 10, 2011) Officials measure the basket as Sailors fill the stands in the basketball arena on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) for an all-hands call. Carl Vinson is hosting the Michigan State Spartans and the University of North Carolina Tar Heels for the inaugural Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Dean M. Cates/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov.10, 2011) College basketball players from the University of North Carolina practice aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Karolina A. Martinez/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 10, 2011) Michigan State University basketball player Keith Applinging practices in the basketball arena on the flight deck aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 11, 2011) Michigan State University and the University of North Carolina tip off the inaugural Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 11, 2011) University of North Carolina center Tyler Zeller (#44) recovers a rebound during the Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is hosting Michigan State University and the University of North Carolina for an NCAA Basketball game. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Roza Arzola/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (Nov. 14, 2011) A Sailor from the guided-missile destroyer USS Hopper (DDG-70) greets his family for the first time since being underway on a seven-month independent deployment. Hopper conducted ballistic missile defense operations, as well as maritime interdiction operations and theater security cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dustin W. Sisco/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 14, 2011) The amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) departs Naval Base San Diego on its first operational deployment to the western Pacific region. Makin Island is the Navy's newest amphibious assault ship and the only U.S. Navy ship with a hybrid-electric propulsion system. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd class Ian Campbell/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 14, 2011) Sailors and Marines man the rails aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) as the ship departs San Diego on its first operational deployment to the western Pacific region. Makin Island is the Navy's newest amphibious assault ship and the only U.S. Navy ship with a hybrid-electric propulsion system. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Andrew D. Wiskow/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (Nov. 14, 2011) A Sailor assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Hopper (DDG-70) greets his son for the first time since being underway on a seven-month independent deployment. Hopper conducted ballistic missile defense operations, as well as maritime interdiction operations and theater security cooperation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Dustin W. Sisco/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 14, 2011) Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Patrick Green, assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), embraces his wife before he embarks the ship for a scheduled deployment as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dominique Pineiro/Released)

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PORT CANAVERAL, FLA. (Nov. 7, 2011) Seaman Recruit Kristian Brewster heaves a mooring line on the forecastle of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15) as Ponce gets underway after a weeklong visit to Port Canaveral. Ponce's Sailors gave tours to more than 8,930 people during the weeklong port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2011) Aviation Support Equipment Technician 3rd Class Donator Guerrero salutes as Seaman Enzo Triplett and Operations Specialist Seaman David Allen lower the national ensign aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Ponce (LPD 15) during a port call to Port Canaveral, Fla. Ponce's Sailors gave tours to more than 8,930 people during the weeklong port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller/Released)

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GULF OF THAILAND (Nov. 14, 2011) Cmdr. Leo Albea, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), speaks to the crew during an all-hands call after a scheduled three-day port visit in Phuket, Thailand. Wayne E. Meyer is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Keim/Released)

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SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (Nov. 10, 2011) The Virginia-class submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) moors alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) in Subic Bay, Philippines, for the first coordinated mooring by Emory S. Land with a Virginia-class submarine. Emory S. Land conducts maintenance and support of submarines and surface vessels deployed in the U.S. 5th and U.S. 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. Texas is homeported in Pearl Harbor and is on her first western Pacific deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chris Williamson/Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (Nov. 10, 2011) Seaman Chelsey Demick, from Wyandotte, Mich., mans the helm aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Turner/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 10, 2011) Seaman Alexis R. Harveyvining stands the starboard lookout watch aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leonard H. Adams/Released)

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STRAITS OF HORMUZ (Nov. 12, 2011) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) transits the Straits of Hormuz. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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NORFOLK (Nov. 15, 2011) Damage Controlman Fireman Dylan Graf hugs his daughters after returning from deployment aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52). Carr was on five-month deployment supporting joint exercises with Baltic nations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility and operations combating transnational organized crime in the Caribbean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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GULF OF THAILAND (Oct. 25, 2011) Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Brittany Leibowitz loads the MK 38 MOD 1 25mm machine gun for a live-fire exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Kidd (DDG 100) during the at-sea phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Cambodia 2011. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Montes/Released)

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GULF OF ADEN (Nov. 6, 2011) Ensign Arielle Holland hits the striking bag after being sprayed with oleoresin capsicum during security reaction force basic training aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) forecastle. Anzio is assigned to Combined Task Force 151, a multi-national, mission-based task force established by the Combined Maritime Forces in Jan. 2009 to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin and Arabian Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David-Michael Ross/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 15, 2011) Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Nelson Sanchez, right, and Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Thomas Campbell fire an air slug from the starboard-side torpedo tubes aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108). Wayne E. Meyer is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Keim/Released)

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MATUNTUGO, Colombia (Nov. 11, 2011) Sailors aboard a riverine patrol boat assigned to Navy Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 3, Detachment 1, conduct a live-fire exercise. RIVRON-3 is participating in Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station 2012, an annual deployment of U.S. military training teams to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Juancarlos Paz/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 11, 2011) The honor guard aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) render honors during a burial at sea ceremony. Ronald Reagan is conducting operations supporting fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Timothy M. Black & Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Terry Godette/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 11, 2011) Sailors aboard the guided-missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726) prepare to dive the boat. Ohio is assigned to Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 15, the U.S Navy's only forward deployed submarine squadron, providing maintenance, training, logistics and administration support for the submarines assigned to the U.S. 7th Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class William Tonacchio/Released)

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (Nov. 11, 2011) High Speed Vessel (HSV 2) Swift offlaods 54 pallets of Project Handclasp materials as a part of Southern Partnership Station 2012. The supplies consisted of water filters, wheel chairs, and high calorie food, which will be distributed throughout the country. Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of U.S. ships to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in the Caribbean, Central and South America. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Matthew Comer/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (Nov. 12, 2011) Rear Adm. J.R. Haley, commander of Task Force 70, conducts preflight checks on an EA-6B Prowler from the Gauntlets of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). The flight marks Haley's last EA-6B Prowler trap. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (Nov. 12, 2011) Rear Adm. J.R. Haley, commander of Task Force 70, lands an EA-6B Prowler from the Gauntlets of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). The flight marks Haley's last EA-6B Prowler trap. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (Nov. 8, 2011) The amphibious assault ships USS Peleliu (LHA 5), left, and USS Makin Island (LHD 8) are moored pierside at Naval Base San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Trevor Welsh/Released)

hires MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Nov. 20, 2011) The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) passes under the Friendship Bridge while transiting the Suez Canal. George H.W. Bush is supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.



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NORFOLK (Nov. 23, 2011) A graphic depicting some of the characteristics of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). U.S. Navy photo illustration/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches off the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) as Sailors from crash and salvage stand watch. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Benjamin Crossley/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches off the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) as Sailors stow fueling lines. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Benjamin Crossley/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Hector Espinosa, from Sinton, Texas, stands .50 caliber machine gun watch on the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) A C-2A Greyhound from the Providers of Fleet Logistics Combat Support Squadron (VRC) 30 launches off the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Benjamin Crossley/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) A Sailor checks the tail hook of an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Tophatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 after it lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) Sailors from crash and salvage stand watch on the bow as an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) An F/A-18C Hornet from the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) Shooters signal for the launching of an aircraft off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) An F/A-18C Hornet from the Golden Dragons of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192 launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) An C-2A Greyhound from the Providers of Fleet Logistics Combat Support Squadron (VRC) 30 launches off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 24, 2011) Capt. Ronald Reis and Adm. Craig Faller serves Sailors in the galley during the Thanksgiving meal aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 24, 2011) Sailors fill their glasses from a drink fountain during the Thanksgiving meal on the mess decks aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)



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MARSEILLES, France (Nov. 25, 2011) The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush arrives in Marseilles, France, for a scheduled port visit. George H.W. Bush is on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brian Read Castillo/Released)



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MARSEILLES, France (Nov. 25, 2011) The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush arrives in Marseilles, France, for a scheduled port visit. George H.W. Bush is on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brian Read Castillo/Released)

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CELEBES SEA (Nov. 25, 2011) Sailors and Marines participate in a swim call from the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is conducting operations in the Western Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eva-Marie Ramsaran/Released)

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SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (Nov. 25, 2011) Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Adam Carlucci, part of the Maritime Civil Affairs Team (MCAT) assigned to High Speed Vessel (HSV 2) Swift, distributes "Loving Hugs" stuffed animals to children at Hogar Escuela De Ninas Dona Chucha during a Southern Partnership Station community service event. Swift has been working with military and community partners for the past three weeks to build partnerships throughout the country. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jennifer Grier/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 23, 2011) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Timothy Birk and Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Leah Warren man a mounted double .50-caliber machine gun aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) while the ship transits through the Strait of Hormuz. Dewey is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Keim/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 21, 2011) Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) debark a landing craft utility (LCU) assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2 in the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Turner/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 14, 2011) A Marine from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) drives a Humvee to shore after launching from a landing craft utility (LCU) assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Turner/Released)

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LAKEHURST, N.J. (Nov. 18, 2011) An F-35C Lightning II test aircraft piloted by Lt. Christopher Tabert launches for the first time from the new electromagnetic aircraft launch system. The new launch system will be installed on the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78). The F-35C carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear to withstand catapult launches and deck landing impacts associated with the demanding aircraft carrier environment. Initial carrier trials for the F-35C are scheduled for 2013. The F-35C is undergoing test and evaluation at Naval Air Station Patuxent River and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst before delivery to the fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by David Sckrabulis/Released)

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CELEBES SEA (Nov. 26, 2011) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) breaks away from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) after an underway replenishment. Essex is conducting operations in the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Terry Matlock/Released)

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NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain (Nov. 23, 2011) Total Force Fleet Master Chief Scott Benning addresses service members and civilians at Naval Support Activity, Bahrain during a visit with Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Mark Ferguson. Afterwards they answered questions about the future of the Navy. Ferguson and Benning are visiting bases throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Eileen Fors/Released)

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KINGS BAY, Ga. (Nov. 23, 2011) The Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) returns to homeport at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay after a three-month deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Kimber/Released)

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INDIAN OCEAN (Nov. 23, 2011) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Lonnie Hill directs an SA-330J Puma helicopter as it delivers a palette of supplies on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a vertical replenishment with the military sealift command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3). Stethem is part of the Essex Expeditionary Strike Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew R. Cole/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (Nov. 23, 2011) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Ashley Barnes, from Lewisville, Texas, reports surface contacts while on a .50-caliber machine gun watch on the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Nov. 24, 2011) Culinary Specialist Seaman Aaron J. Hammond slices a ham on the mess decks aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is underway in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility and is celebrating its first Thanksgiving deployed. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Molly Treece/Released)

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NORFOLK (Nov. 28, 2011) Veterans of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and visitors listen to Capt. William C. Hamilton, Jr., the ship's commanding officer, during a memorial service in the ship's hangar. The remembrance, part of the ship's 50th birthday celebrations, honored the sacrifice of former Enterprise Sailors. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David H. Zeigler/Released)



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NORFOLK (Nov. 28, 2011) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise stand ready to render a rifle volley during a memorial service honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice during her 50 years of Naval Service Nov. 28. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory Pickett II/Released)



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NORFOLK (Nov. 28, 2011) An honor detail conducts a rifle volley during a memorial service aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). The remembrance, part of the ship's 50th birthday celebrations, honored the sacrifice of former Enterprise Sailors. Enterprise is scheduled to deploy for the last time this Spring. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jacob D. Galito/Released)



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NORFOLK (Nov. 28, 2011) Plank owners of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) gather on the flight deck for a photograph during the ship's 50th birthday celebration. The term "plank owner" is used to identify members of a ship's commissioning crew. Enterprise is the oldest active ship in the U.S. Navy and is making preparations for her final deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Carpenter/Released)




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ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 17, 2011) Sailors spell out "E=MC2" on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the ship's commissioning. Enterprise is the first and oldest nuclear powered aircraft carrier still in service and is celebrating its 50th birthday on Nov. 25, 2011. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd class Alex R. Forster/Released

Originally Posted by bd popeye

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NORFOLK (Nov. 28, 2011) Plank owners of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) gather on the flight deck for a photograph during the ship's 50th birthday celebration. The term "plank owner" is used to identify members of a ship's commissioning crew. Enterprise is the oldest active ship in the U.S. Navy and is making preparations for her final deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Carpenter/Released)

IMHO, they should not decommission this vessel until the USS Gerald R. Ford is complete, through trials, and commissioned.

She has plenty of fight left in her and there are places where that fight can be used right now.

Anyhow, she should serve another 3+ years, as originally planned. Too much cost cutting in areas that are getting to the bone, when we have so many other areas where untold billions could be cut...like studies of the mating habits of various species of snales, like billions in foreign aid to countries who out and out belligerent to the US.

Oh well...I just hate to see this workhorse decommissioned before her replacement has even slid off the ways.

I hop she finds her way into a good port as a nice museum and remains in happy retirement with some of her decommissioned air wing on the deck Seeing a ship like her sold for scrap breaks my heart.

I read in a caption that the USN is planning to depoy her again in the Spring of 2012.

Enterprise is scheduled to deploy for the last time this Spring.