The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt returned to its homeport in San Diego on Oct. 15 after an extended deployment.
The strike group was initially deployed on Jan. 11 from Naval Air Station North Island to the Indo-Pacific region.
In June, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin ordered the carrier to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to strengthen U.S. military force posture in the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions.
The strike group is a multi-platform team of ships, aircraft and more than 6,000 sailors. Deploying units of the strike group include Theodore Roosevelt, Destroyer Squadron 23, Carrier Air Wing 11, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie.
While the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Russell, USS Halsey and USS Daniel Inouye also returned to their respective home ports, Lake Erie and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain remain deployed.
“The strike group’s ability to quickly adjust from operations in 7th Fleet to 5th Fleet is a testament to both the flexibility of our naval forces as well as the strength and training of our Navy sailors,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 9, Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander. “We had the distinct honor to strengthen our skills and relationships with 10 allied and partner nations, demonstrating our nation’s commitment to the freedom of navigation.”
The USS Abraham Lincoln, a Coronado-based aircraft carrier, was ordered by the Pentagon to extend its deployment in the region.
“The crew worked incredibly hard and maintained mission focus this entire deployment,” said Capt. Brian Schrum, commanding officer, Theodore Roosevelt. “I am extremely proud of our sailors and the work accomplished across the world’s oceans to keep our nation safe at home.”
