USS George Washington (CVN 73) history (original) (raw)
The George Washington (CVN 73) is the sixth ship in the Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. The contract was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company on December 27, 1982. The keel was laid on August 25, 1986, it was christened July 21, 1990, by First Lady Barbara Bush, and was commissioned at Naval Station Norfolk on July 4, 1992.
January 9, 1993 USS George Washington entered the dry-dock at Newport News Shipbuilding for a Post Shakedown Availability (PSA).
January 23, Capt. Robert G. Sprigg relieved Capt. Robert M. Nutwell as commanding officer of the George Washington during ceremony held at hangar LP2 on Naval Air Station Norfolk.
May 14, USS George Washington departed for a six -day sea trials in the VACAPES Op. Area.
From June 16-30, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was underway for Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) I in the Virginia Capes OPAREA.
From July 19 through Aug. 2, the George Washington was underway for Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRS-CQ) and TSTA IV.
August 3, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for a Dependent's Day Cruise.
August 24, CVN 73 departed homeport for a TSTA II in the Virginia Capes Op. Area.
September 2, The GW pulled into Port Everglades, Fla., for a six-day visit to Ft. Lauderdale. Underway for Type Training from Aug. 8-14.
From Sept. 21- Oct. 1, the carrier underway again for FRS-CQ and TSTA IV. Another underway off Virginia Capes from Oct. 14-21 for ammo onload and ORSE inspection.
November 1, USS George Washington departed Norfolk for Fleet Carrier Qualifications. Underway for TSTA III in the VACAPES Operating Area from Dec. 7-16.
January 19, 1994 The George Washington departed homeport for a Comprehensive Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in the Puerto Rican Op. Area.
Underway for Fleet CQ in the Virginia Capes OPAREA from March 2-12 and March 21-25. Underway for Fleet exercise (FLEETEX) from April 6-22.
May 20, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for its maiden deployment.
June 1, The George Washington anchored off Portsmouth, England, for the first phase of 50th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normany, France.
After a brief visit to Brest, France, the Washington entered the Mediterranean Sea to relieve USS Saratoga (CV 60) and take up station in the Adriatic, conducting no-fly-zone operations over Bosnia.
July 11, While operating in support of Operation Deny Flight, in the Adriatic Sea, black smoke is reported in one of GW's laundries. Fire crews quickly find out that the smoke is pumped into the space through the ship's ventilation system. Because of the unknown location of the fire the crew is ordered to general quarters and all inbound aircraft are diverted to shore bases in Italy. Shortly thereafter, flames are sighted on the aft starboard sponson and a fuel fire is located nearby. It takes almost one hour to extinguish the fire.
August 12, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier anchored off Haifa, Israel, for a five-day port visit.
August 20, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Rhodes, Greece, for a four-day visit. The ship transited Suez Canal on 26th.
September 20, CVN 73 pulled into Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a four-day visit to Dubai.
After transiting Suez Canal on Sept. 29, the George Washington returned to Arabian Gulf in early October in support of Operation Vigilant Warrior, in response to Iraqi troop repositionnig along the Kuwaiti border.
November 18, USS George Washington returned to Norfolk after a one day delay due to Hurricane Emily, completing the six-month deployment.
From Dec. 12-15, the GW was underway off the coast of Virginia for ammunition offload.
January 6, 1995 USS George Washington entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va., for a four-month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).
April 7, The sixth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier departed shipyard for a five-day sea trials.
April 20, Capt. Malcolm P. Branch relieved Capt. Robert G. Sprigg as commanding officer of the George Washington.
May 19, USS George Washington returned to homeport after an eight-day underway for CQ and ammunition onload with USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and USS Mount Baker (AE 34). VMFA-142 became the first Reserve Marine Attack Fighter Squadron to qualify as deployable unit of a Carrier Air Wing.
July 12, The George Washington departed Norfolk to participate in exercise Boastful Labor off the East Coast.
July 22, The aircraft carrier departed Naval Station Norfolk for a Family Day Cruise. Underway in the VACAPES Op. Area from Aug. 15-18.
September 21, USS George Washington departed Norfolk for a TSTA III and Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) in preparation for Comprehensive Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX).
October 8, CVN 73 anchored off the coast of Ponce, Puerto Rico, for a three-day port visit. Returned to home on Oct. 27. Underway again from Nov. 2-7.
November 29, The George Washington departed Norfolk for a 17-day Joint Training Fleet Exercise (JTFEX) 96-1.
January 26, 1996 USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility (AoR).
February 11, The George Washington conducted turnover with USS America (CV 66), after transiting Strait of Gibraltar on March 8, and commenced flight operations in support of Operation Decisive Endeavour/Joint Endeavour on March 13, while on station in the Adriatic Sea.
February 26, The sixth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier anchored off Trieste, Italy, for a four-day visit. Port call to Marseille, France, from March 7-11.
March 16, CVN 73 entered the Red Sea after transiting Suez Canal.
April 6, USS George Washington pulled into Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a four-day visit to Dubai. Another visit to Dubai from April 30 through May 6.
May 25, The GW arrived in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, for a six-day port visit after participating in the joint exercise Matador.
June 4, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Corfu, Greece, for a four-day visit. Capt. Kolin W. Jan relieved Capt. Ronald D. McElraft as CO of Carrier Air Wing (CVW ) 7.
June 21, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier anchored off Naples, Italy, for a five-day port call. Port visit to Cannes, France, from July 1-9.
July 23, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a two-day Tiger Cruise from Bermuda, completing the six-month deployment.
August 29, The George Washington entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard for a Navy's first ever Planned Incremental Availability (PIA), after offloading more than 2,000 tons of ordnance to the USS Seattle (AOE 3) and USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67).
February 28, 1997 CVN 73 departed NNSY for a nine-day sea trials after completing the six-month PIA.
March 25, USS George Washington departed homeport for a two-week Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) I/II. Underway for ISE from April 28- May 2.
May 3, The George Washington departed Norfolk for a Family Day Cruise.
May 7, Capt. Lindell G. Rutherford relieved Capt. Malcolm P. Branch as the 4th commanding officer of George Washington.
May 9, USS George Washington departed Norfolk for a TSTA III/FEP in preparation for a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX).
June 1, The aircraft carrier departed St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, after a two-day visit.
June 19, USS George Washington departed Port Everglades, Fla., after a three-day port visit for COMPTUEX Phase II.
August 18, The Washington departed homeport for a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 97-3. Returned to homeport on Sept. 4.
October 3, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for its third major deployment.
October 16, The George Washington Battle Group conducted turnover with the John F. Kennedy BG, after transiting the Strait of Gibraltar on Oct. 15.
November 3, CVN 73 anchored off Haifa, Israel, for a week-long port visit.
November 20, USS George Washington entered the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch.
December 13, The sixth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier pulled into Jebel Ali, U.A.E., for a four-day visit to Dubai.
December 31, Capt. Craig T. Cuninghame relieved Capt. John D. Stufflebeem as CO of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1.
January 15, 1998 USS George Washington arrived in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a five-day port call.
February 6, Two F/A-18's, assigned to Marine Strike fighter squadron (VMFA) 251, collided in the Persian Gulf while returning to the ship after a routine patrol over the no-fly zone. Both aviators were recovered by SAR and flown back to the GW. Lt. Col. Henry G. Van Winkle died from injuries sustained in the accident.
February 12, The George Washington pulled again into Jebel Ali for a four-day R&R. The fourth and last visit to Dubai from March 1-5.
March 22, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier anchored off the coast of Cannes, France, for a four-day port visit.
April 3, USS George Washington returned to Norfolk after a six-month deployment in the Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf.
May 6, The GW returned to homeport after a two-day underway to offload ordnance to the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and USS Arctic (AOE 8).
May 11, USS George Washington entered the Dry Dock 8 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard for a ten-month Drydocking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA).
December 10, CVN 73 mooved from dry-dock to Pier 5 at NNSY.
March 20, 1999 USS George Washington returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a two-day sea trials. Underway again for flight deck certification on March 25.
May 11, The George Washington departed homeport for a nine-day Fleet Carrier Qualifications.
June 12, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier underway for a Family Day Cruise. Underway again for CQ in the Virginia Capes Op. Area from June 21- July 2.
August 2, the GW departed Norfolk for CQ with the Training Command (TRACOM) in the Jacksonville OPAREA.
August 20, The Washington returned home after a two-day Tiger Cruise from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Airman Tavius Butler was lost at sea on the morning of Aug. 18.
September 16, USS George Washington emergency sortied from Naval Station Norfolk to evade Hurrican Floyd.
October 4, CVN 73 arrived in Port Everglades, Fla., for a four-day visit to Ft. Lauderdale to participate in Fleet Week. Returned home on 14th after a three-week underway for Carrier Qualifications.
October 24, The George Washington departed Norfolk for Operational Reactor Safeguard Examination (ORSE).
From November 2-4, the GW received more than 2,000 tons of ordnance during the ammunition onload with USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and USS Supply (AOE 6).
November 16, Capt. William J. McCarthy relieved Capt. Lindell G. Rutherford as the 5th CO of USS George Washington.
December 1, The aircraft carrier departed homeport for a two-week Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) I/II with the CVW-17.
January 26, 2000 USS George Washington departed Norfolk for Fleet Carrier Qualifications off the coast of Virginia.
February 28, The George Washington underway for TSTA III/FEP and COMPTUEX in the Gulf of Mexico. Port visit to Key West, Florida, from March 18-21. Returned home April 7.
May 9, CVN 73 departed Naval Station Norfolk for a two-week Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) in the VACAPES Operating Area.
June 21, USS George Washington departed homeport for a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet AoR.
After three days of dropping inert bombs at newly reopened Vieques training ranges, off Puerto Rico, the carrier transited the Strait of Gibraltar on July 4.
July 10, After a three days of intense flight operations, the George Washington departed Adriatic Sea.
July 13, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier pulled into Antalya, Turkey, for a three-day port call.
After relieving USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in Central Command AoO on July 22, the GW entered the Arabian Gulf on 25th.
August 1, The George Washington pulled into Jebel Ali, U.A.E., for a four-day visit to Dubai.
August 11, The GW launched its first air strikes on targets in Iraq, in support of Operation Southern Watch.
August 20, USS George Washington anchored at Bahrain Bell-Sitrah for a five-day visit to Manama. The departured was delayed for one day after Flight 072 crashed near Bahrain Intl. Airport in the evening of Aug. 23, less than 10 miles from the ship's anchorage.
On Sept. 19, the CVN 73 was ordered to transit at "best speed" to the northern Ionian Sea, to provide a stabilizing presence in the aftermath of the volatile and unpredictable Serbian elections. Arrived on station on Oct. 2. Port visit to Corfu, Greece, from Oct. 5-8.
October 30, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia, for a four-day visit after participating in the largest NATO exercise of the year, Destined Glory, in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Port visit to Trieste, Italy, from Nov. 4-7.
November 17, The GW anchored off Naples, Italy, for a routine port visit.
December 5, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier arrived in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, for a three-day port call.
December 19, USS George Washington returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a six-month underway period. The aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 flew more than 9,000 sorties, of which 800 were in direct support of OSW, and made 9,000 arrested landings.
January 23, 2001 CVN 73 departed Norfolk to conduct ammunition offload with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and USS Detroit (AOE 4).
January 28, The George Washington pulled into Naval Station Mayport for a brief port call to embark more than 500 "Tigers".
February 13, USS George Washington entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va., for a Planned Incremental Availability (PIA).
July 26, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier returned to Naval Station Norfolk. Underway for sea trials from July 31- Aug. 3.
August 31, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a three-week underway period for flight deck certification and Carrier Qualifications (CQ) with the Training Command (TRACOM) and Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS).
September 10, The GW departed Norfolk for Independent Steaming Exercises (ISE) in Virginia Capes Op. Area. After a terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, the ship arrived off the coast of New York City and launched 234 sorties in support of Operation Noble Eagle, until returned home on Sept. 17. Underway again from Oct. 1-12 for Fleet CQ.
From November 2-20, the George Washington was underway for CQ and Tailored Ships Training Availability (TSTA) I/II.
December 17, CVN 73 returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a 18-day underway for ammunition onload and ORSE.
January 29, 2002 The Washington departed homeport for FRS and TRACOM Carrier Qualifications.
February 6, A two-day search, off the coast of North Carolina, for a missing Seaman Apprentice David Wilse Parkhurst was called-off.
March 22, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for CVW-17 CQ, TSTA III/FEP and COMPTUEX/ITA.
On April 1, ships and aircraft of the GW Carrier Battle Group commenced use of the Vieques Island inner range in conjunction with their Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). The exercise also utilized the northern and southern Puerto Rican Operating Areas and will involve complex battle group training events, naval surface fire support training and air-to-ground bombing.
April 8, Capt. Martin J. Erdossy, III relieved Capt. William J. McCarthy as CO of the GW.
April 25, The sixth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier departed St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, after a three-day port visit. Returned home May 7 after conducting JTFEX in VACAPES Operating Area.
June 20, USS George Washington departed Norfolk for its fifth major deployment.
July 4, CVN 73 pulled into Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, for a four-day port call to celebrate the Independence Day. The ship transited Suez Canal on July 12. Turnover with USS John F. Kennedy on July 19.
July 23, USS George Washington commenced its support in Operation Enduring Freedom.
August 28, The GW pulled into Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a four-day visit to Dubai.
On September 11, USS George Washington was relieved by the Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Battle Group in the Arabian Sea. The aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 flew 925 comabt sorties in support of OEF in Afghanistan.
The GW BG transited Suez Canal on 16th and participated in a bilateral exercise Mediterranean Shark '02 with Morocco, Sept. 23-28.
September 29, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier anchored off the coast of Lisbon, Portugal, for a three-day port visit.
October 17, USS George Washington arrived in Naples, Italy, for a four-day port visit after participating in the largest amphibious exercise, in Med. history, Destined Glory.
On Oct. 20, the CVW-17 sent a detachment to Pula, Croatia, to begin a training exercise with the Croatian Air Force.
October 28, CVN 73 arrived in Koper, Slovenia, for an four-day port call.
November 3, Lt. Cmdr. Robert Clukey, III, from "Blue Blasters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 134, was lost during a nighttime bombing training mision, after his F/A-18C Hornet crashed into the Aegean Sea, 85 miles north of Bari, Italy.
November 30, The GW pulled again into Souda Bay, Greece, for an eight-day port call.
December 20, USS George Washington returned to Norfolk after completing a six-month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet AoR.
January 24, 2003 The George Washington is currently underway for Carrier Qualifications (CQ).
February 2, Two SH-60F Seahawks, assigned to the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 75, rescued four personnel from a burning merchant fishing vessel Diamond Shoal, off the coast of Jacksonville, Fla., while the GW was conducting TRACOM CQ. Five victims were recovered from the water.
February 25, CVN 73 entered the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, for a six-month Planned Incremental Availability (PIA).
August 13, The sixth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier departed shipyard for sea trials. Underway for flight deck certification from Aug. 21-27. Family Day Cruise on Aug. 29. Underway for CQ from Sept. 9-19.
September 11, An F/A-18D, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, crashed into sea, off Virginia Capes, after the #4 arresting wire broke during lading aboard the GW. Lt. Rich Rivera ejected safely. Seven members of flight deck crew were injured.
September 23, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) inspection.
October 16, USS George Washington departed for Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA).
November 17, An F/A-18C, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136, and piloted by Lt. Cmdr. Gerry Murphy, recorded the 100,000th arrested landing aboard the GW.
November 21, Airman David M. Wilson is killed in an accident aboard the George Washington, at approximately 4 a.m. EST, when the aircraft tow tractor he was operating was involved in an accident in the ship's hangar bay, during which he sustained severe head injuries.
December 19, The Washington returned to Norfolk after a 40 days at sea, completing the Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX).
January 20, 2004 USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
From January 29-31, The George Washington conducted turnover with USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in the Atlantic Ocean.
February 6, The GW pulled into Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, for a four-day port call.
February 16, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier entered the Red Sea after a 16-hour transit through the Suez Canal.
February 28, CVN 73 entered the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
March 14, The George Washington pulled into Jebel Ali, U.A.E., for a five-day visit to Dubai.
On April 8, Hornets from Carrier Air Wing Seven commenced combat flights in support of Operation Vigilant Resolve, while the GW was on station in the North Arabian Gulf. One of the Naval Air Station Oceana-based "Wildcats" from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 conducted a 20-mm strafing run against an enemy position. Another VFA-131 Hornet dropped two 500-pound GBU-12 laser-guided bombs on another enemy position in Fallujah, Iraq, on April 9. This was the first live ordnance dropped by aircraft from CVW 7 on deployment.
May 7, USS George Washington arrived again in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a five-day port call. Third visit to Dubai from June 11-15; Anchored off Naples, Italy, from July 14-18.
July 26, USS George Washington returned to Norfolk after a six-month deployment.
From September 13-22, the aircraft carrier conducted CQ for the Naval Air Training Command (NAVTRACOM).
September 30, Capt. Gary R. White relieved Capt. Martin J. Erdossy as the 7th commanding officer of George Washington.
From Oct. 15-22, the George Washington was underway for CSG Fleet Response Plan (FRP) Group Sail.
November 2, CVN 73 began a third underway period for the surge carrier since returning from deployment in July. With one underway remaining this year, the objectives will be obtaining FRS Carrier Qualifications (FRS-CQ) and Training CQ, a substantial ammunition offload and an annual ORSE inspection.
On Nov. 3, the GW welcomed Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122 "Flying Eagles", the Fleet Replacement Squadron for the Navy’s newest fighter, the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. It was the first time the Super Hornets had been launched and recovered on the CVN 73.
July 25, 2005 USS George Washington reached a major milestone during its Docked Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA) as Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard workers reinstalled the last of the ship's four propellers. This event marked the last significant work to be completed before flooding the dry dock and floating GW once again. The aircraft carrier entered the shipyard on Jan. 28 and plans to remain in Newport News through the end of the year.
September 1, USS George Washington completed an undocking and berthing shift at the NGNN shipyard August 30. The move was four days earlier than originally scheduled and was executed almost seven months after the ship arrived in the dry dock. The carrier moved out of the dry dock early in the morning and relocated to Pier 2. Scheduled maintenance, outfitting and testing will continue as part of the planned incremental availability.
November 19, The George Washington achieved another shipyard availability milestone Nov. 15, meeting the Topside Production Completion Date (TPCD), which was originally scheduled for Nov. 22. The GW replaced one Close In Weapons System and one Sea Sparrow missile launcher with new Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) launchers. In addition to upgrades to Washington's weapons systems, improvements were made to the ship's communications, radar and computer systems. The aircraft carrier installed 1,000 new computers, 16 new servers and a new operating system on the ship's network.
December 2, The U.S. Navy announced today that the USS George Washington will replace the USS Kitty Hawk as the forward deployed aircraft carrier in the western Pacific and will arrive in Yokosuka, Japan, in 2008. This rotation is part of the Navy’s long-range effort to routinely replace older ships assigned to the Navy’s forward deployed naval forces with newer or more capable platforms.
December 17, USS George Washington returned to Naval Station Norfolk following a ten-and-a-half month Drydocking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA) period at Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipyard.
February 16, 2006 The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier returned to homeport following a two-and-a-half week flight deck certifications and carrier qualifications (CQ) for pilots from the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 and Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106.
March 1, USS George Washington is currently underway conducting carrier qualifications and shipboard training.
March 6, CVN 73 took another step forward in combat readiness as the ship conducted an at-sea ammunition onload in more than a year. Sailors in GW’s weapons and deck departments moved more than 250 pallets from USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) to the flight deck and hangar deck during simultaneous connected replenishment (CONREP) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP), taking a little more than three hours to complete the transfer.
GW lent a helping hand to 45 naval aviation students March 6-10 during the training carrier qualifications (TCQ) process, which would lead them toward their final goal of becoming naval aviators. Joining the GW flight deck are Training Squadron (VT) 7 "Eagles" and the VT-8 "Tigers" from Meridian, Miss., and the VT-21 "Golden Eagles" and VT-22 "Redhawks" from Kingsville, Texas.
March 17, The aircraft carrier returned to Norfolk after successfully completed the first phase of its Tailored Ship's Training Availability. TSTA is a three-part training and testing evolution designed to increase a ship's readiness and effectiveness.
April 4, USS George Washington and embarked Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17) departed Naval Station Norfolk as part of U.S. Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) "Partnership of the Americas" deployment, for approximately two months.
April 14, CVW 17 completed three days of training and exercises at the Navy's Pinecastle Bombing Range in Florida April 10. The air wing utilized the Pinecastle Range to conduct unit-level training, air wing strikes, and combat search and rescue training. The purpose of the training was to give the air crews an opportunity to practice dropping live ordnance at the range. The Navy has used nearly 6,000 acres of the 382,000-acre forest for target practice for 50 years under a special use permit from the U.S. Forestry Service.
April 14, USS George Washington arrived in St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles, for a four-day port visit.
May 1, Capt. Troy M. Shoemaker relieved Capt. William Massey as Commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the GW.
May 15, The George Washington anchored off St. John's, Antigua, for a three-day port visit.
May 24, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a seven-week deployment to the Caribbean in support of Partnership of the Americas. Throughout the deployment, the ship hosted dignitaries, military leaders and media representatives from various countries in the region including Colombia, Venezuela, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago, and Antigua. It also conducted operations and exercises with foreign navies in the region. The biggest of these, CARTAGENEX, was a bilateral exercise with the Colombian navy and air force.
July 16, CVN 73 is currently conducting carrier qualifications off the coast of Virginia. Returned to Naval Station Norfolk on July 24.
August 14, USS George Washington departed Norfolk to conduct training and offload all remaining ammunition during the ship's last scheduled underway period before heading to Norfolk Naval Shipyard for a Drydocking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA). GW’s remaining ordnance will be offloaded via helicopter during a vertical replenishment.
September 1, CVN 73 returned to homeport following a two-and-a-half week underway period in preparation of the upcoming DPIA.
September 14, USS George Washington arrived in Norfolk Naval Shipyard after recently completed deperming, a process in which the ship is demagnetized. The aircraft carrier will spend the next year in the yards being refitted and upgraded during a scheduled yard period; Entered the dry-dock on Sept. 28.
November 10, USS George Washington successfully marked its first milestone of the, $300 million worth, PIA as the ship's main mast was removed nearly three weeks ahead of schedule for the installation of the new capstone suite. In addition to replacing the main mast, the ship's radar and weapons systems will be replaced or upgraded. One of the upgrades in progress includes upgrading the close-in weapons system (CIWS) mounts to Block 1 Bravo. Additionally, the MK 23 Target Acquisition System (TAS), the fire control radar for the NATO Sea Sparrow missile system, will be seeing its own upgrade as the SPQ 9 replaces it.
December 14, Capt. David C. Dykhoff relieved Rear. Adm. Garry R. White as CO of USS George Washington during a change-of-command ceremony held in Norfolk.
April 25, 2007 The George Washington undocked and moored at pierside berth on Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), one week earlier than previously scheduled.
August 27, USS George Washington returned to Naval Station Norfolk after a four-day underway for sea trials.
September 19, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is currently underway for CQ and flight deck certification in preparation for a homeport change to Yokosuka, Japan; Underway for TRACOM CQ from Oct. 22 through Nov. 1.
February 12, 2008 USS George Washington completed several live-fire exercises Feb. 7-9, in preparation of its scheduled transition to replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier. GW is currently conducting carrier qualifications and flight deck certification off the East Coast.
March 14, The George Washington returned to homeport after completing Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP) in the Atlantic Ocean. During the several weeks of training and evaluation, the GW CSG also participated in Canada's Task Group Exercise (TGEX) 02-08 with four Canadian ships and a submarine.
April 7, USS George Washington departed Norfolk Naval Station to the U.S. Southern Command to participate in Partnership of the Americas 2008. After approximately two months, the carrier will continue the transit to its new homeport of Yokosuka, Japan.
April 21, CVN 73 anchored off Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for a four-day port visit before participating in a multinational exercise UNITAS 49-08.
May 10, After trainings with Brazil and Argentine navy, the Washington Strike Group transited the Strait of Magellan to participate in bilateral task group exercises with Chilean air and surface units.
May 14, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Valparaiso, Chile, for a four-day port call.
May 22, At approximately 7:50 a.m. local time a fire was detected in the vicinity of the aft air conditioning and refrigeration space and auxiliary boiler room aboard the GW. The fire spread to several spaces via a cableway and caused extreme heat in some of the ship spaces, but it was contained and extinguished by the crew without any serious injuries to personnel. It took several hours to completely contain and extinguish the fire.
May 27, CVN 73 moored at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego for emergent repairs. The GW is en route to Hawaii for a turnover with the Kitty Hawk.
June 10, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet announced June 9 the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) will replace USS George Washington in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008 exercise scheduled to take place in the Hawaiian operating area from June 29 through July 31. The timeline for repairs to the GW has not yet been determined.
June 19, The turnover ceremony originally planned for early June in Pearl Harbor will now take place in San Diego in August as a result of the fire that occurred aboard the Washington.
July 30, As directed by Adm. Robert F. Willard, Commander, Naval Air Forces Pacific, Vice Adm. Thomas J. Kilcline, Jr., relieved of command CO Capt. David C. Dykhoff and XO Capt. David M. Dober after investigators concluded that a $70 million fire that damaged the ship in May probably was triggered by crew members sneaking a smoke. The fire was the worst of 13 reported aboard Navy ships this year. Capt. John R. Haley is new commanding officer of the GW.
August 21, The GW departed San Diego for Carrier Qualifications (CQ) with the CVW-5 off the coast of southern California.
September 25, USS George Washington arrived at its new homeport of Fleet Activities Yokosuka in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, as the United States' only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier.
October 1, USS George Washington departed Yokosuka for its first Fall Patrol in the western Pacific.
October 10, The George Washington departed Busan, Republic of Korea, after a three-day port visit due to 60th anniversay of the Korean government and its armed forces.
November 4, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier departed Apra Harbor, Guam, after a four-day port call.
November 17, The GW CSG is currently participating in Annual Exercise 2008 (ANNUALEX 20G), between the U.S. and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
November 21, USS George Washington returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka after a seven-week underway period.
April 10, 2009 Capt. David A. Lausman relieved Capt. John R. Haley as CO of CVN 73 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
From May 6-15, The George Washington was underway for sea trials and carrier qualifications after a five-month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).
May 20, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for combat operations efficiency (COE) evaluation in the western Pacific.
May 23, Capt. Michael S. White, Commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, achieved his 1,000th carrier-arrested landing while flying an F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102.
June 10, USS George Washington departed Yokosuka for its first annual Summer Patrol.
July 2, The George Washington anchored off the coast of Fremantle, Australia, for a five-day port visit Perth before participating in a biennial joint exercise Talisman Saber 2009.
August 6, The GW departed Changi Naval Base after a four-day port visit, its first ever to Singapore.
August 11, USS George Washington anchored off Manila, Republic of the Philippines, for a four-day port visit, the first by a U.S. aircraft carrier in more than 13 years.
August 18, The George Washington CSG recently arrived off the coast of Manado, Indonesia, to participate in the Sail Bunaken 2009 regatta, an international event to share experiences and explore the marine beauty around North Sulawesi.
August 30, CVN 73 Carrier Strike Group began its participation in joint aircraft carrier operations, with USS Nimitz (CVN 68) CSG, in the western Pacific Ocean.
September 3, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a three-month underway period. Underway for a Friends and Family Day Cruise on Sept. 5.
October 6, The George Washington departed Yokosuka after a one-month maintenance and repair period for its second annual fall deployment in support of maritime security and to participate in ANNUALEX 2009 exercise.
October 13, USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group is currently underway in western Korean waters participating in a joint drill with Korea's Second Fleet. North Korea ratcheted up tensions by test-firing five KN-02 short-range missiles into the East Sea on Monday.
October 29, USS George Washington anchored in Victoria Harbour for its first ever port visit to Hong Kong.
From November 10-17, the GW CSG participated in Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 21G, off the coast of Japan.
November 23, USS George Washington returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka after a seven-week underway.
December 5, More than 27,000 guests toured the George Washington during the "Open House" event at Fleet Activities Yokosuka.
May 11, 2010 CVN 73 departed Yokosuka for sea trials after a four-month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA), performed by the ship's 3,000 Sailors, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard workers, and Japanese shipyard workers from Sumitomo Heavy Industries and the Ship's Repair Facility at FAY; Moored at Berth 12 on May 14.
May 18, USS George Washington departed homeport for CQ with the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5.
May 29, Rear Adm. Dan Cloyd relieved Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the GW. USS George Washington is currently conducting Combat Operations Efficiency (COE) evaluation in the western Pacific Ocean.
June 14, The GW departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a routine Summer Patrol, just four days after completing the three-week underway period.
From June 21-25, USS George Washington participated in Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX) with the U.S. and Japanese naval forces.
July 3, The GW returned to homeport to celebrate the 18th anniversary of its commissioning on Independence Day; Underway again on July 9.
July 21, USS George Washington arrived in Busan, Republic of Korea, for a four-day port visit before taking part in exercise Invincible Spirit in the East Sea.
August 9, The Washington CSG is currently participating in a week-long series of naval engagement activities with the Vietnam People's Navy, in the South China Sea, to commemorate the 15th anniversary of normalization of relations between the United States and Vietnam.
August 11, USS George Washington, along with the USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), moored at Changi Naval Base for a scheduled port visit to Singapore.
September 4, The GW anchored off the coast of Manila, Republic of the Philippines, for a four-day port visit.
September 10, Cmdr. David Culpepper relieved Cmdr. Gerald J. Hansen as CO of the "Dambusters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
September 21, USS George Washington CSG, along with USS Essex (LHD 2), USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS Crommelin (FFG 37), USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705), USS Buffalo (SSN 715), USS Tucson (SSN 770), USS Hawaii (SSN 776) and USS Defender (MCM 2), participated in a joint-service exercise Valiant Shield 2010 from Palau to Guam, from Sept. 12-21. The exercise concluded with a SINKEX that resulted in the sinking of the ex-USS Acadia (AD 42), a Yellowstone-class destroyer tender that was decommissioned in 1994. Acadia was struck by several missile and bomb strikes before being sunk by a torpedo dropped by HH-60H Seahawk helicopter from the "Chargers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14.
October 2, The George Washington, along with USS Cowpens (CG 63) and USS McCampbell, pulled into Laem Chabang, Thailand, for a five-day port call.
October 22, Capt. Daniel S. Cave, Deputy Commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, achieved his 1,000th carrier-arrested landing while flying an F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102.
November 1, USS George Washington returned to homeport after four-and-a-half month western Pacific deployment. The return was delayed for five days due to Typhoon Chaba.
November 24, The Washington CSG departed CFAY to take part in the joint-bilateral exercise, Keen Sword 2010, from Dec. 3-10. The exercise is designed to increase the working relationship between the U.S. and Japan Self-Defense Forces and increase their ability to effectively and mutually respond to a regional crisis situation. USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group will first join Republic of Korea naval forces in the waters west of the Korean Peninsula, from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1, for joint naval drills.
December 14, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka. The GW will now undergo interior and exterior preservation, renovations and repairs during the Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) period.
March 21, 2011 USS George Washington departed homeport in response to the complex nature of the disaster that struck Japan on March 11. Low levels of radiation, from the heavily damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant, were detected by GW last week.
April 5, CVN 73 anchored off the coast of Sasebo, Japan, for a brief port call to onload supplies and equipment, and drop off more than 300 workers from naval shipyards in Bremerton and Norfolk.
April 12, The George Washington arrived again in Sasebo for a two-day port call to disembark another 150 Puget Sound and Norfolk Naval Shipyard workers and to bring aboard 115 Japanese that will continue the ship's routine maintenance at sea. Returned home on April 20.
June 5, USS George Washington departed Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka for sea trials and ammunition on-load.
June 12, USS George Washington departed Yokosuka for a routine Summer Patrol.
June 17, The "Dambusters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 returned to the flight deck aboard the GW, after completing the transition from the F/A-18C to the F/A-18E, marking a new chapter in naval aviation history. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 is now the first Wing to transition completely to the new and more advanced "Super Hornet".
July 6, CVN 73 entered the Indian Ocean after transiting through Sunda Strait.
July 15, Cmdr. Michael A. O'Leary relieved Cmdr. Michael B. Tatsch as CO of the "Gauntlets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony. The aircraft carrier is currently off the northern coast of Australia participating in biennial exercise Talisman Sabre.
August 6, The GW pulled into port of Laem Chabang for a five-day visit to Pattaya, Thailand.
August 25, USS George Washington returned home after two-and-a-half month western Pacific deployment.
August 27, CVN 73 departed Yokosuka for a Friends and Family Day Cruise.
September 19, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a western Pacific patrol.
September 29, The George Washington arrived in Busan, Republic of Korea, for a four-day port call to participate in the Armed Forces Day celebration.
October 13, USS George Washington moored at Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a four-day port visit. The USS Dewey (DDG 105) and USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) recently departed with the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) CSG and are currently attached to the GW Strike Group.
October 16, The Strike Group departed Singapore earlier than scheduled to better position themselves for potential humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, if needed, in support of the government of Thailand following the worst flooding in many years.
October 31, USS George Washington, USS Tortuga (LSD 46), USS Cowpens, USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), USS Stethem (DDG 63), USS Lassen (DDG 82), USS Dewey, USS Wayne E. Meyer, USS Guardian (MCM 5) and USS Patriot (MCM 7), are currently participating in the bilateral Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX 23G), between the U.S. and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), from Oct. 27- Nov. 4.
November 9, USS George Washington arrived in Hong Kong for a five-day port visit.
November 15, Aircraft assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 completed their last set of arrested landings as part of the forward-deployed naval forces before transferring to Whidbey Island, Wash., to switch platforms from the EA-6B Prowler to the EA-18G Growler.
November 22, USS George Washington returned to Yokosuka after a two-month underway period.
March 25, 2012 CVN 73 welcomed aboard more than 11,000 guests during Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka's annual Spring Festival.
May 12, The George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a four-day underway to conduct sea trials and ammunition onload with the USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6), after a five-month Planned Maintenance Availability (PMA).
May 26, USS George Washington departed Yokosuka for a routine Summer Patrol.
June 13, Lt. Cmdr. Colin Price, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, recorded the 150,000th arrested landing aboard the George Washington.
June 22, The GW Carrier Strike Group (CSG) participated in a trilateral exercise with ships and aircraft from the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy, in the East China Sea, from June 21-22.
June 27, USS George Washington pulled into Busan, ROK, for a three-day port visit after participating in a joint exercise, in international waters west of the Korean Peninsula, from June 23-25.
July 3, Cmdr. Braden O. Briller relieved Cmdr. Steven M. Barr as CO of the "Royal Maces" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
July 10, The George Washington anchored in Victoria Harbour for a five-day port visit to Hong Kong.
July 14, Airman Rafael Martinez, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, died after falling overboard onto an adjacent services barge at 6:43 p.m., while the ship was at anchor in Hong Kong.
July 26, USS George Washington returned to FAY after a two-month underway period.
August 7, The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was underway for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment from Aug. 6-7.
August 11, Capt. Gregory J. Fenton relieved Capt. David A. Lausman as CO of the GW during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
August 20, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a Fall Patrol.
September 12, The GW Carrier Strike Group is currently participating in an integrated training exercise Valiant Shield 2012, off the coast of Guam, from Sept 11-19.
September 21, CVN 73 moored at Kilo Wharf in Apra Harbor, Guam, for a four-day port call.
October 7, USS George Washington pulled into Port Klang, Malaysia, for a four-day visit to Kuala Lumpur.
October 24, The George Washington anchored off the coast of Manila, Republic of the Philippines, for a five-day port visit.
November 8, The GW CSG is currently participating in ANNUALEX 24G, the maritime component of the biennial exercise Keen Sword 2013, between the United States and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships, north off Okinawa, Japan, from Nov. 5-16; The aircraft carrier transferred more than 1,300 tons of ordnance to USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6), during an ammunition offload from Nov. 17-19.
November 20, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a three-month western Pacific deployment.
January 23, 2013 Rear Adm. Mark C. Montgomery relieved Rear Adm. J. R. Haley as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the GW.
February 7, The George Washington commenced a four-and-a-half month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) while moored at Fleeet Activities Yokosuka's Berth 12. Underway for sea trials and ammunition onload, with the USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10), from June 21-25.
June 26, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a Summer Patrol.
July 15, The GW Carrier Strike Group is currently participating in a biennial joint exercise Talisman Sabre 2013, off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
July 27, Cmdr. Jeffrey P. Holzer relieved Cmdr. Christopher G. Bailey as CO of the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12, during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship.
July 28, Cmdr. Cynthia A. Dieterly relieved Cmdr. Timothy T. Urban as CO of the "Liberty Bells" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony. Also, Cmdr. Shawn M. Kern relieved Cmdr. George M. Perry as CO of the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115.
July 29, USS George Washington moored at GrainCorp Terminal in Port of Brisbane, Australia, for a five-day port visit.
August 23, The George Washington returned to Yokosuka, Japan, after a two-month underway period in the western and southern Pacific.
August 24, CVN 73 departed homeport for a Friends and Family Day Cruise.
September 13, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a Fall Patrol.
September 25, USS George Washington, with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, completed a large-force exercise with the U.S. Air Force after coordinated eight days of joint service, air-to-air combat training with the 27th Fighter Squadron (FS), currently deployed to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, and the 44th Fighter Squadron (FS) stationed at Kadena.
October 4, The GW CSG arrived in Busan Naval Base for a three-day port call after participated in a bilateral exercises with the Republic of Korea Navy, in the Sea of Japan, and will continue in the waters to the west off the Korean Peninsula through Oct. 13.
October 26, USS George Washington moored at Berth 3/4, Changi Naval Base for a five-day port visit to Singapore.
November 8, The George Washington anchored at WA2 in Victoria Harbour for a four-day port visit to Hong Kong.
November 11, CVN 73 CSG has been ordered today "to make best speed" to Republic of the Philippines in support of humanitarian relief operations, in the wake of a deadly Super Typhoon Haiyan that has left more than 10,000 dead; Underway from Hong Kong on Tuesday afteernoon.
November 14, USS George Washington, along with USS Antietam (CG 54) and USS Cowpens (CG 63), arrived in the vicinity of the Leyte Gulf in support of Operation Damayan. The ships will go to a position just off the eastern coast of Samar Island in order to begin to assess the damage and provide logistical and emergency support to include medical and water supplies.
November 17, Two U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Ospreys, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 and one from VMM-265, landed for the first time aboard the USS George Washington. The forward-deployed aircraft carrier is currently delivering water, medical and hygienic supplies to Guiuan/Samar, Ormoc, Borongan and Leyte Gulf.
November 22, Four E-2C Hawkeyes, previously assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117 and deployed with the USS Nimitz (CVN 68), landed aboard the GW as part of an aircraft transfer between the "Wallbangers" and "Liberty Bells" of VAW-115 that was scheduled to provide upgrades to the Hawkeyes while still permitting the strike group to continue its fall patrol. USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group departed Philippines today after providing more than 335,000 liters of water and 36 tons of food and supplies in support of Operation Damayan.
From November 25-28, the GW Carrier Strike Group participated in Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 25G, with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships, north off Okinawa, Japan; Conducted ammunition offload with the USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) from Dec. 2-3.
December 5, USS George Washington returned to homeport after a 12-week underway period in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AoR).
January 6, 2014 The George Washington commenced a four-month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) while moored at Berth 12; Underway for sea trials and ammo onload with the USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11) from May 19-23.
May 24, USS George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka for a Summer Patrol.
June 14, Capt. William S. Koyama, Commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, completed his 1,000th career arrested landing aboard the aircraft carrier with the trap of an F/A-18E assigned to the "Dambusters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195.
June 16, CVN 73 anchored at Western Anchorage (WA) 2 in Victoria Harbour for a four-day port visit to Hong Kong.
June 26, USS George Washington moored at Berth 3/4, Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a four-day port visit.
July 10, Cmdr. David-Tavis M. Pollard relieved Cmdr. David Baird as CO of the "Dambusters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
July 11, The GW CSG moored at Berth 1 on Busan Naval Base, Republic of Korea, for a four-day port call before participating in a joint maritime exercise with the ROK and JMSDF Navy, off the Korean Peninsula, through July 20; Participated in a Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), south of Jeju Island, from July 21-22.
July 25, The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier acted as a short-term sea platform in support of exercise Adiutrix Spear 14-2, while underway in the East China Sea, from July 23-25.
From July 26-30, USS George Washington, USS Shiloh (CG 67), USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) and USS Stethem (DDG 63) participated in a trilateral exercise Malabar 2014, with the Indian and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships, in the waters east of Okinawa.
August 1, CVN 73 anchored in Sasebo Harbor, Japan, for a three-day port visit and to embark friends and family members for a Tiger Cruise.
August 8, USS George Washington returned to Yokosuka after completing an 11-week patrol.
September 2, USS George Washington departed homeport for an annual Fall Patrol.
September 12, Cmdr. Michael D. France relieved Cmdr. Cynthia A. Dieterly as CO of the "Liberty Bells" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
From September 15-23, the GW CSG participated in a biennial field training exercise (FTX) Valiant Shield 2014, off the coast of Guam and Saipan.
September 28, Cmdr. Geoffrey P. Bowman relieved Cmdr. Shawn M. Kern as CO of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
October 2, USS George Washington moored at Kilo Wharf in Apra Harbor, Guam, for a five-day port visit.
October 5, Rear Adm. John D. Alexander relieved Rear Adm. Mark C. Montgomery as Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5 and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the GW.
October 5, CVN 73 emergency sortied from Apra Harbor to avoid the approaching Typhoon Vongfong. Transited the Basilan Strait westbound on Oct. 15; Transited Mindoro Strait northbound on Oct. 18.
October 21, Cmdr. Jason P. Young relieved Cmdr. Jeffrey P. Holzer as CO of the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
October 23, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Manila, Republic of the Philippines, for a brief port call; Inport Apra Harbor again from Oct. 28- Nov. 1.
From November 11-19, The GW CSG participated in ANNUALEX 26G, the maritime component of the biennial exercise Keen Sword 2015, with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), north off Okinawa, Japan; Conducted ammunition offload with the USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11) from Nov. 22-23.
November 25, USS George Washington returned to Fleet Activities Yokosuka after a nearly three-month patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet AoR.
December 30, USS George Washington recently commenced a four-month Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).
January 30, 2015 Capt. Timothy C. Kuehhas relieved Capt. Gregory J. Fenton as the 12th CO of George Washington during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
February 4, Huntington Ingalls Inc., Newport News, Virginia, was awarded a $224,4 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-14-C-2111) for the material and first year of advance planning of the USS George Washington's Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH). This modification will provide for the first year of RCOH advanced planning, shipchecks, design, documentation, engineering, fabrication and preliminary shipyard or support facility work and is expected to complete by February 2016.
May 11, The George Washington departed Berth 12 for a four-day underway to conduct sea trials and ammo onload with the USNS Washington Chambers.
May 18, USS George Washington departed Yokosuka, Japan, for a western Pacific patrol before heading to San Diego, Calif.
May 23, CVN 73 completed its CQ with the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, while underway in the northern Philippine Sea.
June 12, Cmdr. David-Tavis M. Pollard, CO of the "Dambusters", completed his 1,000th arrested landing aboard the aircraft carrier with the trap of an F/A-18E Super Hornet, while the GW was underway in southern Philippine Sea.
June 19, USS George Washington moored at Grain Wharf in Port of Brisbane, Australia, for a five-day liberty visit; Transited the Vitiaz Strait westbound on June 28.?
July 4, Cmdr. Kenneth P. Ward relieved Cmdr. Lonnie L. Appleget as CO of the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony in the Molucca Sea.
From July 7-18, the George Washington CSG participated in a biennial joint exercise Talisman Sabre 2015, while underway in Timor Sea off the northern coast of Australia.
July 25, Cmdr. Rafe K. Wysham relieved Cmdr. Jason M. Denney as CO of the "Diamondbacks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony in the Philippine Sea.
August 1, Cmdr. Jason S. Taylor relieved Cmdr. Ernest M. Winston as CO of the "Shadowhawks" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony near the Hawaiian Islands.
August 7, Cmdr. Guy M. Snodgrass relieved Cmdr. David M. Pollard as CO of the "Dambusters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony. The GW arrived off the west coast today to disembark the CVW-5 aircraft to Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada.
August 10, USS George Washington moored at Berth L, Carrier Wharf on Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, Calif., after completing an eight-week patrol. The GW will conduct a 10-day crew and equipment swap with the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The Reactor Department personnel will remain with their respective ship as well as a small number of personnel deemed critical to the ship’s operations, including the commanding officers and XO's.
August 19, Rear Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti relieved Rear Adm. Patrick A. Piercey as Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 during a change-of-command ceremony on board the CVN 73.
September 8, USS George Washington departed San Diego, after a four-day delay due to mechanical issues, for a three-month voyage to its new homeport of Norfolk, Virginia. The aircraft carrier will circumnavigate South America and participate in UNITAS exercise as part of Southern Seas 2015, a major component of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Partnership of the Americas.
September 21, USS George Washington, along with the USS Chafee (DDG 90), recently arrived in the U.S. 4th Fleet AoR; Participated in a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the JS Yamagiri (DD 152), JS Kashima (TV 3508) and JS Simayuki (TV 3513) on Sept. 22.
October 3, The George Washington anchored off Callao, Peru, for a four-day liberty visit to Lima.
October 12, Cmdr. Benjamin P. Duelley relieved Cmdr. Jeremy Y. Rifas as CO of the "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship.
October 13, USS George Washington anchored off the coast of Valparaiso, Chile, for a four-day port visit before participating in the Pacific phase of UNITAS.
October 19, Cmdr. Dennis M. Duffy, II relieved Cmdr. Brett A. Lassen as CO of the "Golden Dragons" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 192, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
October 22, USS George Washington anchored again off Valparaiso for a four-day port visit; Entered the Strait of Magellan on Oct. 31; Anchored off Punta Arenas, Chile, from Nov. 1-2; Underway off the coast of Uruguay from Nov. 7-10.
November 14, CVN 73 commenced its participation in the Atlantic phase of UNITAS 56-15 exercise, while underway off the coast of Rio Grande, Brazil.
November 22, Cmdr. Shawn C. Kirlin relieved Cmdr. Roy A. Wylie as CO of the "Bounty Hunters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony.
November 23, USS George Washington anchored in Guanabara Bay, east of Enxadas Island, for a four-day liberty port visit to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
December 6, The George Washington, along with the USS McFaul (DDG 74), recently arrived in the waters off Guayana to provide a "stabilizing presence", ahead of the parliamentary elections in Venezuela; Arrived off the coast of Virginia on Dec. 14.
December 17, USS George Washington moored at Pier 14 South on its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk, after being forward-deployed to Japan for six-and-a-half years.
February 26, 2016 Huntington Ingalls Inc. was awarded a $205,1 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-14-C-2111) for the second year of advance planning of the USS George Washington's Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH). Work is expected to be completed by February 2017.
March 4, The GW departed Norfolk for a five-day underway to conduct Carrier Qualifications (CQ) with the CVW-8 in the Virginia Capes Op. Area.
March 19, USS George Washington moored at Pier 12N on Naval Station Norfolk after an eight-day underway for CVW-8/FRS/TRACOM CQ; Underway for ammo offload with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and FRS/TRACOM CQ from April 13-25; Underway again for FRS/TRACOM CQ and routine training from May 17- June 7.
June 13, Adm. William E. Gortney retired after 39 years of service during a retirement ceremony on board the George Washington at Pier 14N, Naval Station Norfolk. He served as Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command and most recently as Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM).
June 16, The George Washington departed homeport for Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRS-CQ).
From June 21-22, USS George Washington transferred nearly 1,200 tons of ordnance during an ammunition offload with the USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12), while underway off the coast of North Carolina.
From June 23-28, CVN 73 conducted testing of the Maritime Augmented Guidance with Integrated Controls for Carrier Approach and Recovery Precision Enabling Technologies (MAGIC CARPET), with the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23; Moored at Pier 14S on June 28; Underway for CQ with the Training Air Wing (TRAWING) 1 from July 10-17; Underway for FRS-CQ from July 18-22.
July 22, Huntington Ingalls Inc. was awarded a $194,8 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-14-C-2111) to extend the period of performance from 12 months to 18 months for continued advance planning of the GW's RCOH. Work is expected to be completed by August 2017.
July 29, Rear Adm. Bruce H. Lindsey relieved Rear Adm. John R. Haley as Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the George Washington at Pier 14S.
September 1, USS George Washington moored at Pier 14N on Naval Station Norfolk after an 18-day underway for Developmental Testing III (DT-III), off the coast of Virginia, with the Navy's F-35C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft, assigned to the Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 and Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 101.
October 1, The George Washington departed homeport for a Friends and Family Day Cruise; Underway en route to the Caribbean Sea for Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response (HA/DR) operations, in the wake of Hurricane Matthew, on Oct. 4.
October 5, THe GW recently embarked six MV-22B Ospreys, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365, and 12 MH/SH-60 Seahawks from the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2, 5, 22, 26 and 28; Transferred four MV-22B, 150 Marines and relief supplies to USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) on Oct. 10; Returned to Norfolk on Oct. 20.
October 26, USS George Washington moored at Pier 14S on Naval Station Norfolk after a four-day underway for FRS-CQ.
December 5, Huntington Ingalls Inc. was awarded a $41 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-14-C-2111) for advance planning of the GW's RCOH.
December 17, CVN 73 moored at Pier 12N on Naval Station Norfolk after an 18-day underway for FRS/TRACOM Carrier Qualifications (CQ).
February 17, 2017 Huntington Ingalls Inc. was awarded an $8.9 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-14-C-2111).
February 28, USS George Washington commenced a 12-week Shipboard Consolidated Offload and Outfitting Plan (SCOOP) phase, while moored at Pier 12N.
June 5, Capt. Glenn R. Jamison relieved Capt. Timothy C. Kuehhas as the 12th CO of George Washington during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
August 4, USS George Washington entered the Dry Dock #11 at the HII Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., for a four-year Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH).
September 1, Huntington Ingalls Inc., Newport News, Virginia, was awarded a $2,8 billion contract for the USS George Washington's RCOH. Work is expected to be completed by August 2021.
September 5, 2019 Capt. Kenneth A. Strong relieved Capt. Glenn R. Jamison as the 14th commanding officer of George Washington.
September 27, USS George Washington undocked and moored at Outfitting Berth #1 on Newport News Shipyard.
February 25, 2021 Huntington Ingalls Inc. was awarded a $31 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-16-C-4316) for the USS George Washington's RCOH. Work is expected to completed by May 2022.
June 24, Capt. Brent C. Gaut relieved Capt. Kenneth A. Strong as CO of the CVN 73 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
April 15, 2022 Master-at-Arms Seaman Recruit Xavier Hunter Mitchell-Sandorn suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound aboard the USS George Washington. He was transporterd to the Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, where he was pronounced dead.
May 25, 2023 USS George Washington moored at Pier 11N on Naval Station Norfolk after a three-day underway for sea trials, following an extended six-year overhaul; Underway for flight deck certification and carrier qualifications (CQ) with the CVW-1 on June 21; Moored at Pier 12S on June 30; Underway for TRACOM-CQ, in the Jacksonville Op. Area, from Aug. 5-13.
September 20, The George Washington moored at Pier 12S on Naval Station Norfolk after an 11-day underway for Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) CQ, in the Virginia Capes and Jacksonville Op. Areas; Brief underway for a Friends and Family Day Cruise on Sept. 24; Underway again on Oct. 10; Moored at Pier 14S on Oct. 17; Held an "Open House" on Oct. 21; Underway for FRS/TRACOM CQ, in the Virginia Capes and Jacksonville Op. Area, on Oct. 23.
November 3, USS George Washington participated in a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) with the USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), HMS Prince of Wales (R09) and FS Jacques Chevallier (A725), while underway off the coast of Virginia; Returned home on Nov. 9; Underway for CQ with the elements from CVW-7 from Dec. 4-13.
January 27, 2024 USS George Washington moored at Pier 14S on Naval Station Norfolk after a 13-day underway for FRS/TRACOM CQ.
February 8, Capt. Timothy L. Waits relieved Capt. Brent C. Gaut as CO of the GW during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.
February 12, USS George Washington departed Naval Station Norfolk for a Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) and Final Evaluation Period (FEP), with the CVW-7; Conducted ammo onload with the USNS Robert E. Peary (T-AKE 5), while underway in the Virginia Capes Op. Area, from Feb. 18-19; Moored at Pier 14N on March 2; Underway for INSURV rehearsal from April 3-4; Underway for INSURV assessment from April 10-12.
April 25, USS George Washington departed Norfolk for a scheduled deployment in support of Southern Seas 2024, a major component of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Partnership of the Americas, and a homeport change to Yokosuka, Japan.
April 29, The George Washington moored at Wharf C2 on Naval Station Mayport for a two-day port call; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS John Lenthall (T-AO 189), while underway approx. 50 n.m. east of Turks and Caicos Islands, on May 4; Transited eastbound, north of Puerto Rico, on May 5; Transited southbound, east of Barbados, just after midnight on May 8; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea again on May 9 and 20th.
May 20, USS George Washington anchored at Anchorage #1 in Guanabara Bay, approx. 1 n.m. west of Niteroi, Brazil, for a four-day liberty port visit to Rio de Janeiro; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS John Lenthall on May 25; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the BNS Atlantico (A140), while underway off the coast of Rio Grande, on May 27.
May 30, USS George Washington participated in a PHOTOEX with the USS Porter (DDG 78), USNS John Lenthall and seven Argentine Navy ships, while underway northeast of Mar del Plata; Anchored approx. 1 n.m. off the coast of Punta Arenas, Chile, for an overnight stop on June 4; Transited the Strait of Magellan westbound on June 5.
June 10, The George Washington participated in a PHOTOEX with the USS Porter, CNS Almirante Cochrane (FF 05), CNS Almirante Lynch (FF 07), CNS Almirante Latorre (FFG 14) and CNS Almirante Blanco Encalada (FF 15), while underway in the vicinity of Valparaiso, Chile; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS John Lenthall, while underway off the northern coast of Chile, on June 14.
June 19, The George Washington participated in a PHOTOEX with the USS Porter and three Peruvian Navy ships, while underway south of Lima, Peru; Anchored approx. 4 n.m. off the coast of Callao from June 20-24.
June 26, The George Washington participated in a PHOTOEX with the USS Porter, USS Sampson (DDG 102) and eight Ecuadorian Navy ships, while underway off the coast of Ecuador; Participated in a PHOTOEX with two Colombian Navy ships on June 29; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS John Lenthall, while underway off the coast of Guatemala, on July 4; Arrived off the coast of southern California on July 9.
July 10, USS George Washington moored at Juliet Pier on Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego to conduct crew and equipment swap period with the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); Moved to Kilo Pier on July 16; Underway in the SOCAL Op. Areas from Aug. 22-26; Underway again on Sept. 17.
From September 19-20, the George Washington conducted ammo onload with the USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11), while underway approx. 120 n.m. southwest of San Diego; Moored at Kilo Pier again on Sept. 21; Underway for FRS-CQ on Sept. 23; Moored at Juliet Pier on Sept. 28.