Friday, January 27, 2006
By USS Ronald Reagan - Public Affairs
BRISBANE, Australia - USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) arrived in Brisbane, Australia, Jan. 23 for a scheduled port visit. USS Pinckney (DDG 91) will be joining them in port.
While in port, the Carrier Strike Group's approximately 6,000 crew members will have a chance to participate in friendship-building and goodwill-generating activities. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. Michael H. Miller, is homeported in San Diego and is on a routine deployment.
"Brisbane is our first port visit since beginning the deployment," said Miller. "This visit gives us the opportunity to show off the U.S. Navy's newest aircraft carrier to one of our strongest allies in the global war against terrorism.
The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group's presence in the Western Pacific demonstrates the United States' commitment to fulfilling its treaty obligations and security arrangements."
Capt. Terry B. Kraft, Reagan's commanding officer, said he also looked forward to Reagan Sailors being able to sightsee and experience the culture of a foreign port during the ship's visit to Australia.
"Australia has always been a favorite port for American Sailors," said Kraft. "Being the first aircraft carrier to visit Brisbane is an honor, and highlights all the work that the good people of Brisbane have done to prepare for our visit. It is fitting that this stop marks the first foreign port of call for this warship."